Annandale's Paper-Mills_.
"Now, then, accordingly as you direct my motions, I will--rain
being supposed absent--join you at your hotel in Edinburgh any time
after 11 A.M. and walk out the whole distance, (seven miles from
the Scott monument,) or else I will meet you at Esk Bank; or, if
you prefer coming out in a carriage, I will await your coming here
in that state of motionless repose which best befits a philosopher.
Excuse my levity; and believe that with sincere pleasure we shall
receive your obliging visit.
"Ever your faithful servant,
"THOMAS DE QUINCEY."
In order to appreciate the physical powers of him who proposed a walk of
the distance indicated in the letter, we must remember that he was then
just sixty-six years _plus_ ten days old. He was now living with his
daughters, in the utmost simplicity. On his arrival, Mr. F. found De
Quincey awaiting him at the door of his cottage,--a short man, with
small head, and eyes that were absolutely indescribable as human
features, with a certain boyish awkwardness of manner, but with the most
urban-like courtesy and affability.
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