CHAP. I.] BIRTH AND PARENTAGE. 9 



is only one example of the manner in which he did 

 everything. It was thought out from the beginning 

 to the end, and so contrived as to be most economical 

 and serviceable in the long run. In his Diary (1841) 

 we find him cutting out his own and his son's shirts, 

 while planning the outbuildings which still exist at 

 Glenlair. And he not only planned these, but made 

 the working plans for the masons (1842) with his 

 own hand. 1 This habitual careful adaptation of 

 means to ends was the characteristic which (together 

 with profound simplicity) he most obviously trans- 

 mitted to his son. Its effect, heightened by perfect 

 science, is still apparent in the construction and 

 arrangement of the Cavendish Laboratory at Cam- 

 bridge. 



While thus unostentatious and plain in all his 

 ways, he was essentially liberal and generous. No 

 one could look in his broad face beaming with kindli- 

 ness and believe otherwise. But his benevolence was 

 best known nearest home. And in caring for others, 

 as in providing for his own house, his actions were 

 ruled, not by impulse, but persistent thoughtfulness. 

 By his ever-wakeful consideration, he breathed an 

 atmosphere of warm comfort and quiet contentment 

 on all (including the dumb animals) within his sphere. 

 Whoever had any claim upon his affectionate heart, 

 whether as an old dependant, or as a relation or 



1 The following entry from the Diary (1842) will be appreciated 

 by those who are interested in the country life of a past generation : 

 " Wrote to Nanny about check of the yarn of the dead Hogs, to make 

 trowser stuff or a plaid." 



