1887 .] Minute of Committee — Victoria Jubilee Prize . 
451 
“ We are deeply sensible of the advantages which, we have derived, 
during the past fifty years of social and legislative progress, from 
the presence, at the head of the affairs of this great Empire, of 
a Sovereign who is dissociated from the contentions of political 
parties, and is possessed of those high personal qualities which 
enable the Crown to exert a moderating and controlling influence in 
the public life of the country. 
“ As a Scottish Society, we claim a share in the sentiments of pride 
and loyal attachment which your Majesty’s personal relations with 
Scotland have evoked in the hearts of our fellow-countrymen. We 
trust that your Majesty may long continue to derive health and 
solace from annual visits to your Majesty’s Highland home ; and 
we at the same time regard your Majesty’s gracious presence amongst 
us as a guarantee of that interest in, and knowledge of our distinc- 
tively national affairs, which, as Scotsmen, we most highly value. 
“ In addressing the Royal Successor of the ancient Scottish 
Sovereigns, who in troubled times ruled this country with courage 
and ability, we may conclude by offering to your Majesty our most 
respectful and loyal congratulations on the good fortune, peace, and 
prosperity which have hitherto accompanied your Majesty’s brilliant 
and eventful reign ; and by expressing the hope that the interests 
of science and learning, with which this Society is connected, and 
whose marvellous development has been one of the characteristic 
features of that reign, may continue to flourish, as heretofore, under 
your Majesty’s gracious encouragement and protection. 
Signed on behalf of the Council of the Royal Society of 
Edinburgh. 
June 1887. 
William Thomson, President. 
