He studied law, was admitted to the bar in 1874 and commenced practice in Jersey City.

In a statement to the floor he once said, "In the great West [there are] inspiring sights and mysteries of nature that elevate mankind and bring it closer to communion with omniscience....

"[3] After leaving Congress, he moved to New York City in 1892 and resumed the practice of law.

He was appointed by President Grover Cleveland as Assistant Secretary of the Navy and served from March 20, 1893, to April 18, 1897, when he resigned.

He died in at his home at 1192 Park Avenue in Manhattan, New York City on June 7, 1930, from arteriosclerosis and apoplexy.