The Autobiography of John Fritz

              276 AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF JOHN  FRITZ
But, alas, the majority of them have gone, the grave has closed over them, but they are not forgotten, and they will ever have a green spot in my memory.
It was my misfortune to start in the world with a meager education. I was born of exemplary parents; my father being a man of high moral character, he fully impressed upon my nfliid the importance of energy, economy, and absolute integrity. My iiiother was a true. Christian woman, and early taught me to read and revere the Holy Bible and to trust in the Supreme Being, and that to respect and obey His laws was a duty which mankind should not disregard.
At tlfls distant day, to my iiflnd, the moral and religious training received from my parents, and their noble example, was the most important training I could possibly have received; and I have ever thought the highest honor I could pay to their memory was to endeavor to follow their noble example. In after years, when overburdened with grave responsibiUties which were ever recurring and had to be met, it was then I sorely felt the want of a better education; but on reflection, I knew my parents had done the best they could, and I was content.
It has alwa3^s been my good fortune to be blest with many kind and loving friends, who have stood by me in the darkest days and were ever ready to give assistance by their wise and s^nnpathetic counsel.
There are times when it is an agreeable servitude to be under obligation to those whom you esteem, and I am deeply sensible of the honor conferred upon me on this occasion, and greatly regret that I have not the command of language to make a fitting acknowledgment to my kind friends, who have provided for the " Fritz Medal " and ar¬ ranged this splendid birthday feast, and to you aU for your presence here to-night.