Thoreau's Eulogy of the Hero of the Revolutionary War

Thoreau found himself unrepresented in actual politics, but almost equally opposed to every class of reformers. Yet he paid the tribute of his uniform respect to the anti-slavery party. He sent notices to most houses in Concord that he would speak in a public hall on the condition and character of Captain John Brown. The hall was filled at an early hour by people of all parties,. His earnest eulogy of the hero was heard by all respectfully, by many with a sympathy that surprised themselves. It was said of pluteness that he was ashamed of his body, and very likely he had good reason for it; he had not skill in dealing with the material world