Page:The life and letters of Sir John Henniker Heaton bt. (IA lifelettersofsi00port).pdf/301

 the bearer of this document Sir Henniker Heaton, Baronet, former Postmaster-General of England, and Member of Parliament for many years, is a British subject, of great distinction and world-wide fame. As under the present distressing circumstances, the American Consulate has been requested to extend its good offices to the British Subjects, I hereby bespeak, for Sir Henniker Heaton, any and all aid it that may be possible to extend under your jurisdiction in expediting this peaceful and speedy progress on his lawful occasions, both as a British Subject and as a Benefactor of the Human Race. American Vice and Deputy Consul. Given this 31st day of August, 1914.

Sir John was in bad health when he left Carlsbad, and on the journey home he was greatly agitated by the news of the "victorious German armies" which was circulated abroad. He was taken seriously ill whilst travelling, and only succeeded in reaching Geneva. For three days he lay unconscious, and died on the morning of September 8th, 1914.

Words are inadequate to describe the kindness and sympathy of Lord Westbury, who did all for his friend that was humanly possible all—indeed that the nearest relative could have done—to obtain the best advice for Sir John while life lasted, and, when the end was approaching, to soften the blow to Lady Heaton as gently and considerately as might be.

When all hope was over, he wrote:

This is a most painful letter for me to write to you but I feel I must supplement have to my two