22 
MEMOIR OF JOHN HUNTER. 
won the heart of ^lias J. Hunter, she, contrary to 
the wishes and advice of her relations, consented 
to become his wife. The marriage proved unfortu- 
nate. Buchanan got into company, and neglected 
his business, which of course became involved. Ac- 
cording to one representation, Mr Hunter removed in 
these circumstances to Glasgow, to comfort his sister, 
and to assist, in extricating her husband’s aflairs ; but, 
according to another account, his object was to asso- 
ciate himself in the business, and prosecute the trade. 
It is obvious, however, that these two objects are in 
no way incompatible ; and it would be false shame 
to throw a veil over the transaction. If probabilities 
and local tradition may be depended upon, there aj)- 
])ears little doubt that John worked at his brother- 
in-law’s trade for some time; but matters do not 
seem to have benefited by bis interference, and even- 
tually be returned to Long-Calderwood. 
How far John Hunter was chagrined by tliis 
finlure, or what influence it may have had on his fu- 
ture character, we have no means of determining. 
Up to this period, howovei', it is ajiparent, that liis 
powerful mind had found nolhiiig to arouse its ener- 
gies. The drudgery of grammar, and of a mecha- 
nical trade, had proved .alike uncongenial ; and, 
though wayward in his temper, and too little school- 
ed by discipline or art, it is not to be doubted that 
his active mind was spontaneously exercised in some 
manner which tended to strengthen its faculties, and 
enabled him to maintain through life an individuality 
