Page:The life and letters of Sir John Henniker Heaton bt. (IA lifelettersofsi00port).pdf/136



A letter from you rouses many pleasant recollections, and increases my regret that I cannot join in those cheerful chats and stories at the Carlton Club with their soupcon of lively spices. I am getting on fairly well, but have to avoid much exertion.

People go such a pace nowadays—I am not alluding only to motors—that it requires more strength and energy than I possess to keep up with them.

One thing is quite certain—that your work will never be omitted from the record of human development, and even the appreciation of Dukes and Cardinals will not outweigh that of the masses of humble people who have derived benefit therefrom.

You will be interested to know that my younger son has just visited Australia, and I am much gratified by the kind way in which he has been welcomed by my old friends. It has greatly touched Lady Jersey and myself.

We realize once more the warmth of Australian hospitality and friendship. Now I hope that you are getting on well and that you and Lady Heaton are in good health.

In May 1913 H. H. made his last voyage.

The voyage to Australia out and home was achieved without any special incident to mark it. At Adelaide he took a final leave of his old friend Sir Samuel Way, Chief Justice and acting-Governor of South Australia. To all who know Sir Samuel Way, it is unnecessary to add any praise of his unfailing kindness and goodness of heart. Although Sir Samuel was only just recovering from a serious illness, he insisted on meeting H. H. and Lady Heaton at the station and driving them to his house. At luncheon he told a story of his favourite