The Life of Sir Rowland Hill and the

1850] SUBSCRIPTION FOR MR. WALLACE. 147
that, supposing
but one letter in a thousand to contain
tidings of pressing importance, there would be, at the
then existing rate of correspondence, nearly a thousand
cases per week in which delay would painfully interfere
with the feelings of relatives and friends, or lead to
serious trouble or loss ; and that the necessity so produced
would inevitably lead to a revival of contraband
conveyance, detrimental alike to Sunday observance
and the interests of the office.
In conclusion, I pointed out that by
the measures
then in progress, combined with others carried into
effect during the previous year, improvements were
now in such a state of advancement that in a few days
the Sunday duty throughout England and Wales would
be reduced to little probably more than half its original
amount while this ;
great benefit would be obtained in
such a manner as not only not to impair, but greatly to
promote, the public convenience.
"January 21st. The Postmaster-General is highly pleased at my
Report on the proposed total abolition of Sunday duties, which is to
be sent to Lord John Russell for use in debate. I have advised that
its statements, which necessarily run into considerable detail, should
be checked by the practical men."
So far as I remember, however, no error was dis-
covered.
Shortly after this time symptoms of a better understanding
on the part of the public began to appear, more
defenders arising in various quarters, and even those
who made extreme demands taking a more moderate
tone. But whatever assurance I might now have as
to improved feeling in the public, an ordeal which I
was about to go through still seemed formidable. I
had had the pain to learn that Mr. Wallace, who had
done so much for the public and for myself, had fallen
L 2