Opening Address. Session 1878–79

Abstract

In taking my place this evening, I might reasonably be expected to say much about my unworthiness to fill the post, and the kindness of my friends in placing me here. All that I can trust myself to say is, that I feel too deeply everything that can be imagined of this kind to venture on giving it words. To be the successor of such men as the Duke of Argyll, Sir Robert Christison, and Sir Wm. Thomson, is an honour which the most ambitious man might covet, and the most self-conceited deem himself scarce worthy of. To myself that honour has come neither to gratify ambition nor to administer to self-conceit. It has descended on me all unsought through the kindness of the many friends who have sat with me for years in this room, and the only emotion it awakens is that of affection and gratitude. Just a month has elapsed since it became apparent to me that I should be called upon to address you to-night. That such would be the case had not till then crossed my thoughts. I had made no preparation for the address. The first month of the University session left me the very smallest amount of time and strength for the work. You will, therefore, pardon an address rather feebler in character than is fitted to the occasion.