Page:Ferrier Works vol 2 1888 LECTURES IN GREEK PHILOSOPHY.pdf/37

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xxx
INTRODUCTORY NOTICE.

course with him during the next seven years was entirely according to this beginning.

"Now and then, when I could, I used to go and hear him lecture ; I never saw anything better than his manner towards his students. There was in it ease, yet dignity so respectful both to them and to himself that no one could think of presuming with him. Yet it was unusually kindly, and full of a playful humour which greatly attached them to him. No one could be farther removed from either the Don or the Disciplinarian. But his look of keen intellect and high breeding, combined with gentleness and feeling for his students, commanded attention more than any discipline could have done.

"In matters of college discipline, while he was fair and just, he always leant to the lenient and forbearing side. He was peculiarly considerate of the students in all his dealings with them ; and by showing this markedly in his manner, I doubt not he called forth in those who perceived it some feeling akin to his own.

"Till his illness took a more serious form, he was to be met at dinner-parties, to which his society always gave a great charm. In general society his conversation was full of humour and playful jokes. A quick yet kindly eye to note the extravagances and absurdities of men. His remarks were especially racy on those whose enthusiasm outran their judgment, or who insisted on riding their own