Untitled - Electric Scotland

1863-68] LETTERS OF FRIENDS 537
nised as the fittest person to fill such a place at such a juncture is
itself an honour higher than the dignity itself. I believe you are
so recognised by all who do not belong to the party of those
whom it will not be the lightest part of your task to keep within
due bounds ; and this well-earned confidence will be one element
of your strength. I am myself persuaded that the helm could not
have been placed in hands better able to steer our vessel through
the straits in which she is now entangled, and most heartily do I
hope that you will be blessed with a long continuance of health
and vigour for the labour and heat of the day, and that a main
part of the reward of your evening may consist in the prosperity of
your work."
"
Looking to the future of the English Church," wrote Pro
fessor Lightfoot, "at a great crisis in her history, I cannot but
feel most deeply thankful for the appointment. . . . Alas ! there
is one sad thought connected with an event which otherwise
would have given unmingled joy : the pleasant associations con
nected with Fulham must now become memories, ws <$ivoi>
17
<iA.oxw/na. But, if I feel this, the wrench to yourself must be
very far greater."
Dean Stanley
"
wrote :-
It is indeed a solemn, almost an awful, thought to think
that you are in the place where, of all others, you can do most
good to the Church and country the place which of all others
had most need of you in this most critical juncture. A thousand
thoughts of the past and future rush into my mind. In no
common sense I do indeed trust and pray that grace and strength
may be given to you in the years that so we cannot help hoping
and believing may be prolonged, in a sphere, if more arduous,
yet less laborious, than that which you will leave.
The Rev. F. D. Maurice wrote :
"
It can scarcely have satisfied any of us to join in general
addresses of regret at the loss we have suffered, and of thankful
ness for the blessing which has been granted to the Church.
Each of us has had special experience of your care of us, which
cannot be forgotten, and which has done much to teach us what a
father in God means. I am sure your Grace does not wish for