It was while attending college that Mr. Williams had an experience
that ^vas always a treasured memory to him, and this was a meeting with
General Lafayette, who was at this time just finishmg hii tour of the
United States. A large public reception was held for bim m Utica, and
Ferdinand attended. The weather was warm and tht old general seemed
tired and travel worn, but with characteristic Fren..h tourtesy he had a
pleasant word for every one. Mr. Williams often told one story that
illustrates admirably the tact for which be was noted. When he was
introduced to the widow of Dr. Kirkland, who was one of the founders
of Hamilton College, he remarked: "Ob, yes, I remember }'our husband
very well. He was my guide." The words were uttered in English, and
from the expression on Mrs. Kirkland's face, he saw that he had made
a mistake, and quick to see it he added "I mean my spiritual guide."
His remark had it been in French would have been perfectly clear, but in
using English he bad given Mrs. Kirkland the impression that be in-
tended classing her illustrious husband with backwoods guides, while
in reality be had been a chaplain at the headquarters of the Continental
army and a friend of the General's, His <niick wit changed her frown
to a smile, and Mr. Williams always remembered this little anecdote of
the old General.
