1890-91.] 
Chairman’s Opening Address. 
15 
present attendance, I think it due to the Royal Society to resign 
the high honour which they have conferred on me with heartfelt 
thanks and best wishes for the prosperity of the Institution, 
“ I remain with sincere regard, 
“ Sir, 
“ Your most obedient Servant, 
“Walter Scott.” 
“Abbotsford, 18 th October 1830.” 
“ John Robison, Esq., Secretary to the 
“ Royal Society of Edinburgh.” 
This letter was submitted to the Council at a meeting held on the 
8th of November 1830. The following is the minute regarding it : — 
“ Read a letter from Sir Walter Scott intimating his intention of 
residing in the country, and proposing on that account that he 
should cease to hold the office of President of the Society. 
“ The Council having considered his letter were unanimously of 
opinion, that although they could not under the circumstances hope 
to have the benefit of Sir Walter Scott’s frequent presence amongst 
them, yet that it was very desirable for the interests and reputation 
of the Society that he should still continue at their head. The 
meeting therefore instructed the Secretary to write on their behalf 
to Sir Walter Scott, and to request that he would again permit 
them to propose his name as on former occasions of election.” 
In consequence of his resignation not being accepted, Sir Walter 
continued to be President till his death. 
The other President whom I desire to name is the distinguished 
gentleman who has been my immediate predecessor. Of Sir William 
Thomson, who held the post of President for the full term of five 
years (1873-1878), and who has now, at his own request, been per- 
mitted to retire before the completion of a second term of office, it 
is perhaps sufficient to say that he leaves our Chair only in order 
that he may be enabled to assume the corresponding post in the 
Royal Society, London. 
His position is practically unique, for, while second to none in 
the rajaks of pure Science, he is absolutely without a concurrent in 
