36 Mr. Faraday on the 



members. The eminence of the writer gives weight to the 

 testimony they bear to the high character of Mr. Philips: — ■ 



Saty- Afternoon 

 (March 20th 1808) 

 Dear Sir 



You have probably learned from Dr. Dewar his intention of resigning at 

 the Infirmary on Monday. Immediately on receiving the information I called 

 on Dr. Winstanley to ascertain whether he intended to begin his canvass imme- 

 diately, or to wait for the formal announcement which Dr. D. intends to make 

 at the board. He was not, however, at home ; but I was informed by Dr. 

 Hull, that, seeing no impropriety in the immediate application for votes, he had 

 advised Dr. Winstanley to take this step without loss of time. Being of the 

 same opinion myself, I immediately began my canvas, and have called at your 

 compting house (from whence I write these hasty lines) to notify my intention 

 to you. Your vote I do not think it proper to ask ; because you will probably 

 not declare in favour of any candidate. On your good wishes I hope and 

 believe that I may rely. 



I am, Dear Sir, 



Yours with much respect 



WILLIAM HENRY. 



Dawson Street 



Thursday afternoon 



24 March. (1808) 

 Dear Sir 



Though it is perhaps not strictly necessary to trouble you with any reply 

 to the official note, with which you have favoured me, yet I cannot deny myself 

 the gratification of thanking you, very sincerely, for the friendly interest you 

 have taken in my behalf, as far as was consistent with that impartiality, which 

 the welfare of the charity and your peculiar situation as its principal officer 

 required. For your handsome conduct at the board, of which I hear from all 

 quarters, I feel peculiarly grateful. 



Believe me, most respectfully, 



Dear Sir, Your obliged and humble servt. 

 WM HENRY. 



Mr. Philips's interest in the engraver's art appa- 

 rently led him to take part in opposing capital punish- 

 ment for forgery. The following letter is an expression 

 of the growing public feeling which ultimately compelled 

 the repeal of a barbarous law. The writer was John 

 Landseer, the father of Sir Edwin Landseer, who was 

 born in the house from which the letter was addressed. 



