“I am not a little ashamed of the value of the
shrine in which your Lordship has enclosed the Attic relics; but were it yet
more costly, the circumstance could not add value to it in my estimation, when
considered as a pledge of your Lordship’s regard and friendship. The
principal pleasure which I have derived from my connexion with literature, has
been the access which it has given me to those who are distinguished by talents
and accomplishments; and, standing so high as your Lordship justly does in that
rank, my satisfaction in making your acquaintance has been proportionally
great. It is one of those wishes which, after having been long and earnestly
entertained, I have found completely gratified upon becoming personally known
to you; and I trust you will permit me to profit
340 | LIFE OF SIR WALTER SCOTT. |