"This is truly my opinion, and how important to me, not for the sake
of Edinburgh University alone, but of the whole world for ages to
come, I need not say to you! I have not the honour of any personal
acquaintance with Mr. Adam Black, late member for Edinburgh, but for
fifty years back have known him, in the distance, and by current and
credible report, as a man of solid sense, independence, probity, and
public spirit; and if, in your better knowledge of the circumstances,
you judge it suitable to read this note to him--to him, or indeed to
any other person--you are perfectly at liberty to do so.
"Yours sincerely always,
"T. CARLYLE."
[Illustration]
FAREWELL LETTER TO THE STUDENTS.
Mr. Carlyle, ex-Lord Rector of the University of Edinburgh, being
asked before the expiration of his term of office, to deliver a
valedictory address to the students, he sent the following letter to
Mr. Robertson, Vice-President of the Committee for his election:--
"Chelsea, December 6, 1868.
"DEAR SIR,--
"I much regret that a valedictory speech from me, in present
circumstances, is a thing I must not think of.
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