552 OBITUARY NOTICE OF JOSEPH JACKSON LISTER 



Although in this notice I have confined myself chiefly to matters connected 

 with the microscope, it is right that I should add that these were far from 

 forming the exclusive occupation of his leisure hours. The comprehensive 

 grasp of his intellect and the extent and variety of his attainments were as 

 remarkable as the accuracy and originality which characterized his microscopical 

 work. Indeed there were few subjects in literature, science, or art with which 

 he did not show himself more or less familiar. His clear, calm judgement 

 and strict integrity made his opinion highly valued among his friends in matters 

 of difficulty or dispute. He was most unselfish, and scrupulously tender of 

 hurting the feelings of others, and extremely generous in the pecuniary support 

 of public philanthropic objects, as well as in secret acts of charity. Though 

 warmly attached to the rehgious Society of Friends, to which he belonged, 

 he was a man of very liberal views and catholic sympathies. But the crowning 

 grace of this beautiful character, though it might veil his rich gifts from those 

 not intimate with him, was a most rare modesty and Christian humility. 



Living to an advanced age, he retained his activity of body and mind to 

 the last. But while to his friends this appeared remarkably the case, he was 

 himself keenly alive to the gradual effects of years upon him, and his sensitive 

 nature shrank from the idea of the helpless state to which he might be brought 

 if his life should be prolonged like his father's, who lived to ninety-eight ; and 

 he often expressed his desire that he * might not outlive his powers '. His wish 

 was granted. He had only just returned from a stay at the sea-side, where 

 he had enjoyed long rambles and excursions, when a feverish attack rapidly 

 but almost painlessly prostrated his strength. Fully aware that his end was 

 approaching, his loving interest in others was conspicuous to the last, while 

 for himself he showed no anxiety, except the earnest desire for a speedy dismissal. 

 He died at Upton House, in Essex, on the 24th of October, 1869, in the eighty- 

 fourth year of his age. 



Believe me, 



My dear Sir, 



Yours very sincerely, 



Joseph Lister. 



To the Rev. J. B. Reade, F.R.S., P.R.M.S. 



