Francis Vergnies Balch '59.

Mr. F. V. Balch '59 died at his home in Jamaica Plain last Friday. After graduation at Harvard he began the study of law, which he broke off to enlist in the army. Owing to lack of health he was obliged to return to the law, and accepted the position of private secretary to Charles Summer. He was admitted to the bar in 1861, and in 1863 entered the office of William Minot. His ability was soon recognized and he became prominent in his profession. After occupying for many years one of Mr. Minot's offices he finally associated himself with Messrs. Charles and Felix Rackemann, and became the head of the firm.