In testimony of the Magistrates' and Council's esteem for him as a distinguished Scottish Nobleman and of the public services he has rendered as a Statesman, and especially in the cause of Education, as well as promoting peace and friendship among the Nations by the study of International Law.
"Edinburgh has always been, and is, interested in the great international movements to which you, my Lord Provost, have already alluded, which aim at the preservation of peace and at a better understanding between nations.
Edinburgh and the great University it fosters contribute to the cohesion of the Empire by cementing the bonds of union and intercourse with our fellow subjects in the Colonies and in India. The citizens of Edinburgh are aware of their exceptional responsibilities and know how to discharge them. Foreigners look back on the cordial hospitality they always receive at your hands as one of their most cherished recollections. The Corporation of Edinburgh has to act a prominent part in making this city not only the ideal city of the Empire, but in grappling with the great social problems of the present day. Municipal administration is becoming more and more complex, but the representatives of the citizens of Edinburgh have solved many problems in the past, and are determined to make of Edinburgh a model city of this great Empire. They can rely on local patriotism of which there are so many evidences in various quarters."