Each of them had a great part in the overthrow of the political forces that were on the side of slavery, and in the triumphant overthrow of the combination which would, if successful, have corrupted Massachusetts and made of her the worst instead of the best example on earth of republican self-government.
There is hardly room here for more than a sketch of Adin Thayer.

He was a very striking, original and picturesque figure in the history of the Commonwealth.

He was a strong, brave, wise, unselfish man.

His life, so far as he took part in political affairs, was devoted to objects wholly public, never personal.

He was the greatest organizer of righteousness in his generation.