The New York Times May 19, 1913, Page 2
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FACES DEATH BRAVELY.
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Georgia Banker, Who Took Poison by Mistake, Awaits The End.
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Special to The New York Times.

MACON, Ga., May 18. --- Told by his physicians Friday night that he could not live, R. S. Walker, a prominent banker, is making a sort of gala affair of his last hours. He is holding receptions which are attended by his friends, and is facing his fate with a gayety that is almost unbelievable.

Mrs. Walker has become resigned, and she is assisting in entertaining her husband's friends when they call. Open house is being kept, and there is a constant procession of visitors to see Mr. Walker and keep him cheered.

Last Wednesday night Mr. Walker took a poisonous drug by mistake for headache powders. Doctors were called, and for a time they thought they could save his life, but late Friday the physicians told Mr. Walker that his case was hopeless, and that death was inevitable. He was told, however, that he might linger for a day or two.

"I intend to die in cheerful fashion," he said.

He summoned his wife and she was told of the verdict of the physicians. Mrs. Walker, who has been married only three years, broke down at first, but was consoled by her husband, and agreed to assist in making his last hours on earth joyous.

Mr. Walker first summoned his lawyers, made his will, and put his business affairs in shape. Then the house was made bright with all sorts of flowers, and friends were summoned.

To-day there has been a stream of visitors, and Mr. Walker greeted them as cheerily as though death were far in the future. He insists on music, and one standing on the street would think some great social function was in progress in the Walker home.

Mr. Walker's friends put on a brave front while in his home, and in no manner allude to his coming death, but most of them break down as soon as they leave the house. Mr. Walker himself has never shown the slightest sign of breaking down. He greets his friends brightly, recalls old times, tells jokes, and never intimates that his hours are numbered.