2110-7-2-11

Beaconsfield 438.

Holloways Farm, Beaconsfield, Bucks.

27 March 1935

My dear Buchan

I can't expect you to remember the dedication of the posthumous theological tracts of Zachary Pearce, Bishop of Rochester, that I commended to you. But as I am sure you will read it with pleasure. I give myself the satisfaction of copying it on the back. I hope your address from the Commons may be as happy.

Today, if the Times says so, I suppose you may be congratulated. And doubtless that is being done with embarrassing frequency. For which reason I command that this is not to be answered or acknowledged.

Yours P.D. MacKinnon

To the King

Sir,

I presume to lay before your Majesty the last labours of a learned Bishop, who died in the toils and duties of his calling. He is now beyond the reach of all earthly honours and rewards; and only the hope of inciting others to imitate him, makes it now fit to be remembered, that he enjoyed in his life the favour of your Majesty.

The tumultuary life of Princes seldom permits them to survey the wide extent of national interest, without losing sight of private merit; to exhibit qualities which may be imitated by the highest and the humblest of mankind; and to be at once amiable and great.

Such characters, if now and then they appear in history, are contemplated with admiration. May it be the ambition of all your subjects to make haste with their tribute of reverence: and as posterity may learn from you Majesty how Kings should live, may they learn, likewise, from your people, how they should be honoured. I am.

May it please your Majesty, With the most profound respect, Your Majesty's most dutiful and devoted Subject and Servant,

[1777]