Thomas Archibald Bennet-Clark, 13 January 1903 - 24 November 1975

Abstract

The death of Thomas Archibald Bennet-Clark was regretted deeply by a wide circle of friends and admirers. The number in this circle was large since Thomas had a gift for friendship which he exercised enthusiastically. He was an indefatigable correspondent. Many will have been glad to receive from him letters written in his characteristic spindly handwriting. These were never arid and had the flavour of being written with the circumstances of the particular correspondent in mind. He was a witty talker. Friends will remember a slightly hesitant speech which was used to enrich a sympathetic but incisive conversation. It was never used to embarrass but always to promote a sympathetic atmosphere. He was physically a small man and in a peculiar way this characteristic seemed to be particularly appropriate to his own ebullient style of good nature. He was a sympathetic and attentive listener, and must have spent long hours in the course of a busy life in discussions of professional and scientific matters. His reward was the friendship and devotion of a remarkable variety of persons. Colleagues became collaborators, students became admirers and professional acquaintances became intimate friends.