Eiilogium on William West. 161 



have distinguished himself as a public speaker,* as 

 iriuch as he did in the peaceful occupation of an im- 

 prover of land. The board of agriculture of England 

 havina; heard of his superior farm mauogement, paid 

 him the compliment of electing him an honorary mem- 

 ber of their institution, shortly after its establishment. 



Mr. West attained the great age of nearly 84. — 

 His mental faculties retained their full vigour to tnt last 

 year of his life. By an irresistible msl inct of our na- 

 tures, old age in any one commands respect. But this 

 resp. ct is combined with veneration, when ive associate 

 the sight of grey hairs, and oiher remarks of the decay 

 of the body, with ideas of virtue and eminent usefu.iicss 

 in an honourable occupation. Such were the feelings 

 which the presence of Mr. West excited in everv one 

 who saw him, whether upon his farm, by his lire .^ide, 

 upon the road, or in ccm{)any. The review of a long 

 and innocent life is always pkasanu but when the mind 

 in its retrospect upon past years, sees every one filled 

 with labours for the benefit of country, flimiiy and 

 friends, the sensations excited by it are more than plea- 

 sant, — they are truly delightful. But Mr. West had 



* In one case, he replied, at the particular request of his 

 friends, to an eminent counsellor in the house, and gave so 

 clear a view of the subject in a short speech that the question 

 was carried on the side he espoused, by a very large majority. 

 His opponent, afterwards requested that the subject might 

 undergo a private debate before six gentlemen oi the bar. 

 The proposal was agreed to, and on the discussion o ihe 

 question, the vote of the umpires was unanimous in. tavoi.u' 

 ©f Mr. West. 



VOL. II. X 



