into other hands with the next issue." Then comes a valedictory well enough conceived and expressed, so far as it goes. But there is not one word of any reason for the change, or of what he intends to do, or whither to go. He compliments his successor, but does not name him.
The next month, however, that successor, Dr. Geo. W. Bagby, another young man, informs us that on the 15th of May, from 5 P. M., at Zetelle's restaurant, a complimentary dinner was given to Mr. Thompson, by a number of his friends and admirers. Mr. W. H. Macfarland presides, with Mr. Thompson on his right. Among the invited guests are Jno. E. Cooke, Dr. H. G. Latham, of Lynchburg, and Dr. Bagby. Mr. Thompson responds to a speech from Mr. Macfarland; there were toasts and other speeches and Dr. C. Bell Gibson sings a song of his own making, in which there is an allusion to the Field and Fireside. Mr. Thompson recites, by request, the poem he wrote for the Old Dominion Society of New York, on their first anniversary, and which was read at their dinner, by the Hon. Alex. Boteler.
Mr. Macfarland stood very high in Richmond and had had a good deal of experience on such occasions. He was a little pompous in his manner and appearance; but was a Christian gentleman of high character and generous spirit. He was also a good writer and speaker and was selected
