On October 3, 1899, he was laid away in the
quiet tomb amidst beautiful blossoms and many tears from those who
knew him best. Mr. Melvin was one of the most delightful
personalities--gentle and kind as a woman, always genial and
accommodating, with always a pleasant word for every one. Even though
suffering from this disease which no doubt made life a burden, no one
in his presence was aware of his suffering. He was always bright and
cheery. As I passed his casket with other sad friends to take a
farewell look upon him and place upon his coffin my tribute of
violets, my tears dropped upon his last resting place as I beheld all
that was mortal of my beloved and affectionate pupil for whom I
mourned as a mother mourns for her son. A prayer arose to my lips to
the God of the universe that as peacefully as he slept in his earthly
casket that He would give him the peace that passeth all understanding
when he entered the portals of Heaven. Rest, sweet spirit, rest. You
are absent but not forgotten by your sincere and devoted teacher and
friend.
ROSE CHAMPION
The second one of my musical family to pass out of life was Miss Rose
Champion. As Jesus wept at the grave of his dear friend Lazarus, I
wept, that one so young and gifted should be taken away from her
little family of three beautiful girls, and a sweet-voiced singer
should be forever stilled. She began her lessons with me in 1897 and
continued until 1899.
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