Page:Scotish Descriptive Poems - Leyden (1803).djvu/22



When I first became acquainted with this transaction, my curiosity was excited concerning the names of the principal agents. I wished to know to what species of fame they aspired; and to learn whether they had caused their names to be inscribed on any species of monument or public work. But, on reflection, it seemed better to leave them in that oblivion which they seem to have so sedulously courted. In justice to the present inhabitants of Greenock, it is proper to state, that since the period to which I allude, an important change has occurred in their manners and taste. The present Magistrates are distinguished by their public spirit and attention to literature; and to one of them, a favourite pupil of Mr. Wilson, the editor of this edition of "Clyde," is indebted for some of the materials employed in the Biographical Sketch of the Author. From the period of Mr. Wilson's appointment as master of the grammar school of Greenock, he devoted himself solely to the duties of his function; and the evening of his life was calmly passed in the social intercourse of his friends, who were numerous and respectable, and in the enjoyment of domestic