CHAPTER VIII.

_From 1803 to 1817—age, 30-44._

Mr. Bowditch translates a Spanish paper; is chosen President of a Fire and Marine Insurance Office.—Habits of life.—Becomes interested in politics.—Federalists and Democrats.—Great excitement.—Division between him and old friends in consequence of his zeal.—Feelings of Mr. Bowditch when war was declared.—Decision of character.—His charity.—Earnestness in aiding others; ludicrous instance of the effects of this.—Boldness towards a truckman.—Zeal for improving the libraries; unites the two.—Dr. Prince’s church.—Performance of duties of President of Insurance Office.—Answer to an overbearing rich man.—Appointed Professor of Mathematics at Harvard College; same at West Point.—His modesty.—Hints about leaving Salem 115