1232 Proceedings of Hoy cd Society of Edinburgh. 
guaranteeing any excess over this sum should it be requisite, as 
indeed it eventually was. 
Thus, in an unostentatious and most kindly way, an Institution 
— unique of its kind — was erected, fitted by Dr Gatty, and 
handed over to the University. In his quiet modesty no one 
thought less of the action than himself. He was satisfied if the 
study of marine animals and the work of the fisheries could in 
any way he promoted, and his favourite science generally 
advanced. 
Dr Gatty was present at the opening of the Marine Laboratory 
by Lord Reay, along with a notable band of zoologists and men 
of science, the Senate of the University, and the public, on the 
30th October 1896. Lord Reay, a former Rector of the 
University, commenced his address by observing, “ It is a pleasant 
duty which devolves on me to tender to Dr Gatty the sincere 
thanks not only of the rulers of this ancient seat of learning, but 
pf all men of science, and of all Scotsmen, for this munificent 
gift .... Dr Gatty must have felt some difficulty in adjudicat- 
ing on the multitude of claims which confronted him. There are 
so many scientific wants, that great discernment is needed in those 
who wish to benefit their generation. We are doubly grateful to 
Dr Gatty that he has given a decision in our favour. And I 
think no assurance is called for that everything will be done by 
the University to show that it is worthy of so generous a donor. 
I feel sure that as time goes on the value of this foundation will 
be enhanced in the eyes of future generations, and that many 
scientific men from all parts of the world will set out on a 
pilgrimage to this station, and that tlieir homage to the pious 
founder will take the form of research.” “How I have no doubt 
that the best investment for superfluous capital is that chosen by 
Dr Gatty — the endowment of the Scottish Universities.” “ Dr 
Gatty has set an example which ought to stimulate those who are 
in search of employment for capital.” The enthusiasm with which 
the great assembly received the tribute paid by Lord Reay to Dr 
Gatty was so great that the occasion must have been a pleasant 
one for the modest donor, who in subsequent years never ceased to^ 
be deeply interested in the work of the Laboratory. Even when 
in search of health in the coast towns of the south, e.g. in 
