260 CHARLES CARDALE BABINGTOX. [1891—94 



of the journey was ensured. He marvelled to see his patient, as he 

 lay, watching the familiar mountains, and enjoying their wealth of 

 beauty, in winter garb of purest snow, on a day which was summer- 

 like in sunshine and blue sky. At Ballater this faithful friend 

 parted from us, and never ceased to prove himself as deeply in- 

 terested as ever in his loved patient. Kind friends awaited our 

 arrival at Edinburgh ; and on the Berwick platform — although it was 

 midnight — stood his oldest friend, cherished and valued through all 

 the years. Dr. Philip Maclagan, whose visit to that ambulance was 

 as that of a heaven-sent messenger. Little could it then be ex- 

 pected that he would be the first to reach the other shore, for in 

 the following May, the same illness (acute pneumonia) laid him low, 

 and Berwick can never cease to mourn its best friend. 



The return to Cambridge was anxiously awaited by many kind 

 hearts, and during the nearly four years which were added after 

 that return, the sympathy and fellowship of friends afforded true 

 pleasure and comfort to him who slowly gathered strength, Avhilst 

 patiently waiting, and bravely enduring his enforced retirement 

 from active life. 



All this time, whilst unable to pursue his former work — in con- 

 sequence of the development of a rheumatic affection of the limbs 

 — the clearness and strength of his intellectual powers were a con- 

 stant wonder to those who came in contact with him. Others, 

 especially Professor Mayor, have testified to this. It cannot be 

 luifolded in detail by the one who was privileged day by day to 

 behold all this beautiful patience, this perfect peace, this unfailing 

 praise. Such details are too sacred, they are simply named here as 

 a grateful tribute for the priceless blessing of being permitted thus 

 to witness and to share his life. 



During 1892 no journey was possible, but very much enjoyment 

 was derived from long drives in many directions, where, to those 

 who can see special features of beauty in our picturesque villages, 

 and to whom all Nature is laden with joy and interest, there is a 

 wealth of delight. In the following summer (1893) by the special 

 wish and advice of the physician who watched his case, a change of 

 air was recommended. A delightful resting-place was found in 

 Wensleydale. The pure air of Leyburn, and its beautiful neigh- 

 bourhood, afforded real benefit and pleasure. The power to walk 

 was to a considerable extent regained, and several of the old 

 churches and castles were visited and enjoyed. In the following 

 year (1894) the same advice was given, and this time it was to 

 beautiful Teesdale that we went. Between Barnard Castle and 

 Middleton lies the village of Cotherstone, at the junction of the 

 Balder and the Tees ; and there a pleasant home was found, within 

 a few minutes of a heather-clad moor. From this place many drives 

 were enjoyed, including two to the High Force in Upper Teesdale 

 (11 miles distant), that home of some of Britain's rarest plants. 

 What keen delight in sending to see if Fotentilla fruticosa was to be 



