They were,
in short, ideal debaters.
Whenever Mr. Darrow and Prof. Foster debated on one of the major issues of
reason a flutter made itself felt in the city--even among citizens
indifferent to debate. Indifferent or not, one felt that a debate between
Prof. Foster and Mr. Darrow was a matter of considerable importance.
Things might be disproved or proved on such an occasion.
* * * * *
They were to have debated on "Is There Immortality?" when Prof. Foster's
death canceled the engagement. This was one of the favorite differences of
opinion between the two friends. Mr. Darrow, of course, bent all his
efforts on disproving immortality. Prof. Foster bent all his on proving
it. Considerable excitement had been stirred by the coming debate. The
death of the brilliant theologian put an end to it.
Instead of the debate there was a funeral. Thousands of people who had
admired the intellect, kindness and humanitarianism of Prof. Foster came
to the memorial services held in one of the large theaters of the loop.
Mr. Darrow came, his head bowed and grief in his heart. Friends like
George Foster never replace themselves. Death becomes not a triumphant
argument--an aloof clincher for pessimism, but a robber.
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