The uninterrupted prosperity of the institute had secured to its proprietor a handsome competency ; and having no longer the important aid of his wife, he decided to retire from the school to whose interests he had given the best years of his life. In the sphere of a teacher of youth for thirty years. Professor Swinburne had earned and received its highest honors, and he could now lay aside its labors in the gratifying consciousness that to the advancement of the cause of education, second in importance to none that can employ the human mind, he had given his best powers and most devoted efforts.

Since his retirement from teaching, he has continued his residence in White Plains, and has often been honored by his fellow-citizens with positions of responsibility and trust. On the organization of the fire department of the town, he was made its first president, and continued such for a number of years. When the village was incorporated, he was elected its first president, and re-elected for several successive terms. He was made the first president of the White Plains Savings Bank, and president and treasurer of the Board of Commissioners of Westchester Avenue. At the opening of the AVar of the Rebellion, and through its whole progress, his influence was powerfully felt in support ot the cause of the Union. In his eloquent appeals at public gatherings to the patriotism of those who could take the field, as well as by his liberal contributions of money to aid in the raising and equipment of military organizations and to meet the wants of the families of soldiers who were absent at the seat of war, he rendered most valuable aid and inspired hearts in many an anxious home with gladness and hope. Professor Swinburne is a firm believer in the Christian faith.