In testimony of appreciation of his high artistic talent, and,. of the lustre which his works have shed on this his native city.
"I have had that which is the birthright of every Scotsman-a good religious and moral education. Early in life I was taught the duty of respect to my superiors-but while giving them all due honour I was also taught never to forget that self respect which belongs to every honest man.
There are thousands who can understand a picture that cannot understand an epic poem, and the influence which a beautiful picture has upon mankind is probably greater than the world is aware of. In that belief, and with that feeling, I presented to my native town a work of which I shall only say that I wish it had been better. But at all events I hope it will be preserved, and that it may do something towards carrying out that great object which the Scottish Academy have in view, by directing the attention of the citizens of Edinburgh to the promotion of the arts which confer so much good upon society, and which must make us better and wiser men."