"Letter of Remembrance"

"Madam, My dear Friends:
During fourteen years Mr. Cooke was Superintendent of this Settlement. God has given all the gifts which conquer sympathy, an imposing stature, a sculptural head, a charming smile, a strong personality, and above all a natural gift of authority.

He knew how to command without hurting anybody. He suggested rather than commanded, and as Shakespeare said, "He enforced his suggestions more by his smile than by the sword".

He tried always to put out all motive of discord, to establish peace amongst us. (Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the children of God.)

Occasions do not make men, but reveal them. I will always remember when the two Frenchmen were in distress, with what courage Mr. Cooke jumped into the little boat and seizing an oar, encouraged cheerfully those who went to save them at the peril of their lives.

His religion, he always said, was "The Golden Rule". It was true, and that is why today, we are all deeply moved at his sudden death.

May God be merciful to him. May God bless Mrs. Cooke, whose sweet rememberance amongst us will remain associated with him in our prayers, and in our hearts. May God bless his children, born amongst us. May God console them, with their mother, and strength accompany them during their lives with our constant gratitude.

Let us say for him the prayer of the Saviour, which unites all of us:

THE OUR FATHER
Kalaupapa, May 18th, 1939"

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