Conclusion

The conclusion suggests a more rounded perception of Bristow. Letters he wrote to his daughter (1898) and condolence letters to his widow suggest a quirky sense of humor, love for his daughter, and utter devotion to his grandson. Obituaries mostly focus on his professional accomplishments, but several describe him as a lovable, genuine, considerate individual who was “modest and unassuming to a fault” and a man who despised self-promotion. These themes are echoed in condolence letters, where he is described as a warm and genial gentleman and someone who was always quick to discover the good in others. It is fitting to end the book with these observations.