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been set on public good, and I have thought no 
sacrifice too great for its promotion. I consider your 
association as connected with the darling occupa- 
tion of my life, and your society will find in me a 
sincere and active friend. I know the merits of 
your professor; he has been an object of my esteem 
and literary regard for eighteen years past; andI am 
persuaded that you will find in him an assiduous and 
successful commentator on the subjects which your 
youthful ardour may engage you to explore. 
I entreat of you, Sir, to convey to your brethren 
the thanks of a member of the great republic of 
letters, who, at no advanced age, begins to grow old 
in the service of that community which seems to 
have adopted him more heartily than any other*. 
I am, Sir, with regard, 
Your obliged and obedient humble servant, 
(Signed) Bucuan. 
Edinburgh, 1783. 
Mr. Smith to Mr. James Edward Smith, 
Mr. Bickersteth’s, Kirby Lonsdale. 
My dear Son, May 18, 1783. 
Iam very certain you are able to form some judge- 
ment of what we felt when we heard you had been 
so very ill; indeed, my dear James, a very, very great 
* This alludes to his lordship’s disappointment in not being 
elected one of the sixteen peers, on the death of Lord Breadal- 
bane. 
