102 INVALIDISM AND ITALY. 



studiously disposed, than Mr Wilson might have found 

 amongst the inexhaustible books and specimens of Jardine 

 Hall, nor would it have been any drawback that ichthyo- 

 logical illustrations were supplied by Annan Water more 

 recent, if not as rare as the stuffed salmonidce in the end- 

 less cabinets. But it was not till late in life that, although 

 frequently invited, he was able to pay a lengthened visit 

 to this hospitable abode. It was in 1854, when preparing 

 materials for the press ; and he exceedingly enjoyed its 

 cheerful seclusion, as well as the extensive apparatus so 

 luxuriously at hand in this great repertory of everything 

 pertaining to zoological science. 



In the meanwhile, however, notwithstanding such 

 episodes as the eagle controversy, and despite the gaiety 

 of his familiar epistles, his strength was imperfectly 

 restored, and the depression of spirit, with which he never 

 ceased to contend, he could not always conceal. In the 

 autumn of 1823, he visited Ardencaple, the residence of 

 his intelligent and heartily appreciating friend, Lord John 

 Campbell, and spent some time cruising in the yachts of 

 Lord Willoughby de Broke and James Smith, Esq. of 

 Jordanhill. With one or two of the letters then written 

 we conclude this section of his history. Mournful as is 

 the tone of the first extract, we think it better not to 

 withhold it. Perhaps to some " shipwrecked brother " it 

 may prove a footstep in the sand. Few that saw the 



