5l c 2 BIOGRAPHICAL ACCOUNT 



In 1773, the death of Dr Russell produced a vacancy in 

 the Natural Philosophy Chair of the University of Edinburgh. 

 Principal Robertson, who was ever so attentive to the wel- 

 fare of the University over which he presided, though not per- 

 sonally acquainted with Mr Robison, yet knowing his cha- 

 racter, had no doubt of recommending him to the Patrons of 

 the University, who, on their part, with no less disinterested- 

 ness, listened to his recommendation, and Mr Robison was 

 accordingly elected. It is said, that when the news of this 

 appointment reached him, he at first hesitated about the ac- 

 ceptance of it, principally from the fear of appearing in- 

 sensible to the kindness and favour which he had experi- 

 enced from the Russian Government. The moment, too, 

 when it was known that this invitation had been given him, 

 further offers of emolument and preferment were made him 

 by that Government, of such a kind as it was supposed he 

 could not possibly resist. At length he determined, and 

 no doubt wisely, however splendid the prospects held out to him 

 might be, to accept of a situation that would fix him permanently 

 in his native country. He therefore declined the offers of the 

 Empress of Russia, and in June 1774 sailed from Cronstadt 

 for Leith, followed, as one of those friends he left behind in 

 Russia has expressed it, by the regrets, and accompanied by 

 the warmest good wishes, not only of all who had shared in 

 his friendship, but of all to whom he was known. The Em- 

 press was so far from being offended with his determination, 

 however much she wished to prevent it, that she settled a pen- 

 sion on him, accompanied with a request, that he would 

 receive under his care two or three of the young cadets who 

 were to be selected in succession. 



Mr 



