contribution to the martial history of the nation. He was the first adjutant-general in our country who conceived the idea of having handsomely engraved on steel, with attractive and appropriate symbols and of a size adapted to framing, a memorial certificate to be presented to all surviving officers and soldiers from our state, and to the widows or nearest relatives of those who gave their lives in the great struggle for the preservation of the republic. This testimonial was filled up with the name and rank, and also the regiment and company with which the men were connected, and the nature and length of their services. It will not be invidious to say that no other state had during the war an abler or more efficient and patriotic adjutant-general than New Hampshire, or one who was more devoted to the men on their way to the field, while there, or on their return after peace was declared. Many a veteran will remember with gratitude his fatherly care of them after their discharge, and his good counsel and assistance in saving them from the hands of sharpers who were always in waiting to take advantage of the necessities of soldiers. From his own private means Gen. Head extended aid to all soldiers needing it; and to the credit of New Hampshire "boys in blue" it should be recorded that he never lost a dollar by such confidence and generosity. It seems almost unnecessary to add that his constant and unwearied devotion to them secured for him not only their highest respect and warmest esteem, but won for him the enduring title of "the soldier's friend." In 1875 the celebrated controversy occurred in the old second senatorial district over the spelling of his name on the ballots, upon which technicality his votes, he having a plurality, were thrown out. His constituents, however, were determined that justice should be done him, and they gave him a handsome election the succeeding year, and re-elected him in 1877, when he was made president of the senate, discharging its responsible duties with rare efficiency and acceptability.