ly proof how hopeless were even the most specious of
the Scottish Episcopal Church on the subject of toleration. I
told him that so far as that statement went it proved
nothing, that it had been wrung from me in an unguarded
moment, and that I had for fourteen years borne unequivocal
testimony to views which were opposite to that statement. He
received the explanation most kindly, and offered to do
anything I wished, but we both at length agreed that the best
plan would be simply to omit it in the second edition, which
was preparing and has since come out. It was omitted.

I am, dear Dr. Alexander, with true regard, ever yours most
sincerely, E.B. RAMSAY.

23 Ainslie Place, August 26, 1867.

Dear Dr. Alexander--I have lately returned to Edinburgh,
having paid a visit to my own country on Deeside. On Saturday
I drove down to Musselburgh, and had an express object in
calling upon you to ask how you were. But I found I had been
wrong directed to Pinkie Burn, and that to accomplish my
visit, I must have made a _detour_ which would have detained
me too long. I had an engagement waiting me, and I found my
strength pretty well exhausted. I wish, however, to notify my
_intention_ of a visit. I have had a very severe illness
since we met, and have not regained my former position, and
do not think I ever shall. I was very, very close upon the
gate we must all pass, and I believe a few hours longer of
the fever's continuance would have closed the scene. I don't
think I dread to meet death. I have so largely experienced
the goodness of God through (now) a long life, and I feel so
deeply, and I trust so humbly, the power of his grace and
mercy in Christ, that, I can calmly contemplate the approach
of the last hour. But I confess I do shrink from encountering
an undefined period of bodily and mental imbecility; of being
helpless, useless, a burden. I have been so distressed to see
all this come upon our bishop, Dr. Terrot; the once clear,
acute, _sharp_, and ready man. Oh, it is to my mind the most
terrible affliction of our poor nature. I have known lately
an unusual number of such cases before me, and I hope I am
not unreasonably apprehensive as to what may come. I hope
your family all are well, and that you are fully up to your
work i