Page:Robert Carter- his life and work. 1807-1889 (IA robertcarterhis00coch).pdf/170

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154
LIFE OF ROBERT CARTER.

his shepherd plaid around him, and looked very unlike a student. He inquired for a Greek Testament. He was asked if he wanted it for himself, and he answered, ‘Yes.’ ‘If you will read me a verse or two, I will give you the book for nothing. He read and translated, and the astonished bookseller gave him the book. Mr. Brown told me that there were six John Browns, all eldest sons, in regular succession, he being the fifth, and his son the sixth. The first was a custom weaver, and from him had descended a noble line of illustrious men. When I was leaving Edinburgh, John Brown was one of the last from whom I parted. A short time before his death, he sent me a loving message through my dear friend, Dr. Cuyler, who spent some happy hours with him.

“There were two brothers, William and David Dickson, of whom I have many pleasant memories. David was the City Treasurer of Edinburgh. He reminded me often of Apollos R. Wetmore, of New York. His life was consecrated to the good of his fellow men. He took me with him to the Magdalen Asylum, which he visited weekly. I addressed the poor women a number of weeks in succession. I never saw a more attentive audience. They were melted to tears. Such weeping overcame me, and I wept with them. We implored the blessing from on high, and it came. The dear Lord sought the lost, and found them there. At New Year the city authorities gave them a supper, to which I was invited. I addressed them very briefly, but as I was about to leave Edinburgh it was a parting address. After I sat down, I whispered to Mr. Dickson that I wished to retire. He said he would accompany me. When we reached the door I looked back and made a bow to them. They involuntarily rose in a mass and