152 THE KINGDOM OF MAN 



as to the remuneration of scientific men, was applied in an 

 individual case. I desire to place on record here the Earl 

 of Crawford's letter to the ' Times ' of October 31, 1905, 

 for the careful consideration of those who desire the 

 advancement of science. When such things are done, 

 science cannot be said to have advanced much in public 

 consideration or Governmental support. 



To the Editor of the l Times: 



SIR, The death, noted by you to-day, of my dear friend and 

 colleague Dr. Copeland, His Majesty's Astronomer for Scotland, creates 

 a vacancy in the scientific staff of Great Britain. 



Will you permit me, Sir, to offer a word of warning to any who may 

 be asked to succeed him ? 



Students or masters of astronomy are not, in the selfish sense, 

 business men, nor are they as a general rule overburdened with this 

 world's goods. It behoves them henceforth to take more care as to 

 their future in case of illness or physical infirmity and not to trust to the 

 gratitude or generous impulse of the Treasury Department. 



In old days it was the custom when a man distinguished in science 

 was brought into a high position in the Civil Service that he was credited 

 with a certain number of years' service ranking for pension. This 

 practice has been done away with, and a bargain system substituted. 

 A short while ago the growing agonies of heart disease caused Dr. 

 Copeland to feel that he was less able to carry on the duties of his post, 

 and he determined to resign ; but he learnt that under the scale, and in 

 the absence of any special bargain, the pension he would receive would 

 not suffice for the necessities of life. The only increase his friends could 

 get from the Treasury was an offer to allow him about half-a-crown a 

 week extra by way of a house. 



Indignant and ashamed of my Government, I persuaded Dr. Cope- 

 land to withdraw his resignation and to retain the official position which 

 he has honoured till his death. 



1 trust, Sir, that this memorandum of mine may cause eminent men 

 of science who are asked to enter the service of the State when already 

 of middle age to take heed for their future welfare. 



I am, Sir, your obedient servant, 



CRAWFORD. 



2 Cavendish Square, October 28. 



