Volume 1 - Electric Scotland

308 WILLIAM BLACKWOOD.
silent partner, whose steadiness of character and man-
ful composure seem to be emphasised by the silence.
And it is no small testimony to both to say that,
though these whimsical outbursts were repeated a
hundred times, and though even Blackwood's temper
not a meek one—did sometimes when " much enforced
give forth a hasty spark," yet that the steady affection
and esteem with which they each regarded the other
sustained no damage. The following letter is an ex-
pression of Mr Blackwood's sincerest feelings on this
subject :
—
All I shall say is that you have been the Genius and the
Living Spirit which has animated the work, and whatever
success it has had I owe most unquestionably to you in the
first and chief place. I can most conscientiously declare that,
wholly independent of the success of the work (to which your
articles were always sure to contribute), I have felt a happiness
in receiving your communications which to me was far beyond
any considerations of personal advantage, and I had always
more pleasure in paying you 100 gus. than any one else 50.
The times are fertile in subjects, and your feeling and fancy
are inexhaustible. I have much to say but I refrain. All I
shall add is that there is nothing in this life I am so proud of
as your friendship, and I hope and pray to God that it may
continue while life lasts and with our children's children.
Professor Wilson lived to see three of Blackwood's
sons in rotation assume the reins. He continued to
kick sometimes now and then against the sway of the
younger spirits ; but he stood by them loyally through
every change. And he was himself a sort of tutelary
deity to the Blackwood house. His bust and portrait
still stand leonine, with flowing mane, presiding over
everything that goes on, as he did in his fine and care-
less person both in youth and age.
—