CLOSING TEAKS. 447 



grateful consideration. The following letters will explain my 

 words. One is addressed to Sheriff Gordon ; the other to James 

 Moncreiff, Esq., Lord Advocate: — 



" Gwtdtr House, "Whitehall, 

 August 30, 1851. 



"My dear Gordon: — The enclosed will show you with what 

 great cordiality my suggestion has been received by Lord John, 

 and this post conveys directly to Professor Wilson an intimation 

 from Lord John Russell, conceived in terms which, I think, cannot 

 fail to be most gratifying to him, that the Queen has granted him 

 a pension of £300 a year. I have sent Lord John's letter direct, as 

 I think it will in that way best bear its real character of being a 

 spontaneous tribute by the Government and the country. 



" And now let me say that nothing that has happened to me since 

 I held office has given me so much real pleasure as being permitted 

 to convey to so old and steadfast a friend as yourself, intelligence 

 which I am sure must greatly gratify you. I trust, under Provi- 

 dence, it may be fruitful to your illustrious relative of a long and 

 honored old age, and of comfort and happiness to all your circle. 

 Believe me ever, yours very sincerely, J. Moncreiff." 



" Holyeood Palace, 28th August, 1851. 

 "My dear Lord Advocate : — I have complied at once with your 

 wishes, and immediately obtained the Queen's approbation. I send 

 the enclosed letter to you, that there may be no unfair surprise in 

 communicating the Queen's intentions to Professor Wilson. Be so 

 good as to take care that this letter is given him in such a manner 

 as may be most agreeable to his feelings. Yours truly, 



"J. Russell." 



As soon as Mr. Gordon received the intelligence that it had 

 pleased, her Majesty to bestow her bounty on Professor Wilson, he 

 and I set off immediately to Billholm as messengers of the pleasant 

 news. We arrived there late at night, and found every one in bed. 

 The reason for our sudden appearance was not long in being made 

 known, and in a short time the whole household was astir. The 

 Professor rose from his bed, supper was set out before us, and a 

 very joyful repast we had ; every one expressing their grateful 

 pleasure at this unexpected recognition of his public services. We 



