523 
be well done. They comprise the secret of much 
perfection in human operations, and the best ceco- 
nomy of our most precious and evanescent property, 
time and temper. 
In the common occurrences of life, a promptness 
of decision was one of the characteristics of Sir 
James’s mind; it implies, indeed, an experienced 
judgement: but he considered the habit of indeci- 
sion more wearisome and unprofitable than even a 
wrong determination ; and having chosen for the 
best, he would not permit himself in vain regrets if 
he failed in his designs. Upon more important 
occasions, he usually quoted a rule of his friend the 
Bishop of Carlisle, “ Let us do the right thing,” 
and then whatever the result may be, we shall want 
no consolation. This was a principle upon which 
he invariably acted ; and to those who have felt the 
peace of mind which accompanies such a motive, it 
will not require any other recommendation. 
The letters of Sir James’s inestimable and long- 
tried friend, who has been just alluded to, will best 
illustrate the works above enumerated. As a classical 
scholar Dr. Goodenough’s criticism is full of instruc- 
tion, as a systematic naturalist he was not behind 
any in precision, nor was it his disposition to com- 
pliment at the expense of sincerity ; his remarks 
are therefore valuable, and were continued at pretty 
regular intervals during an unbroken friendship of 
more than forty years. The Bishop died in the ~ 
autumn of 1827, a few months only before his at- 
tached friend. His last letter, in the month of May 
that year, was written to express his regret at being 
