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Letters expressing sympathy with the objects of the meeting were also received from the
Earl of
Shaftesbury, Lord Houghton,
Sir Charles Lyell,
Sir T. F. Buxton,
Goldwin Smith,
Charles Buxton, M. P.,
Professor J. E. Cairnes,
Thomas Hughes, M. P., and many others unable to attend.
Of these we give but one:
73 Harley Street, June 22, 1867.
1
dear Sir: I regret that my engagements are such as to prevent me from assisting in the arrangements for a public breakfast to
Mr. Garrison, who has done so much for a cause in which I warmly sympathize.
I will do what I can in making the intended meeting known among those who I know will be glad to contribute to its success.
Believe me, dear Sir,
Very truly yours,
Those who were familiar with
Mr. Bright's oratory averred that he had never spoken with more grace and simple eloquence, or with deeper tenderness and feeling, than characterized the beautiful address with which he introduced the post-prandial exercises of the occasion.
Its effect upon his audience was most impressive, and a common baptism of spirit seemed to pervade the great assembly, which listened as if entranced.
His opening words were as follows:
The position in which I am placed this morning is one very3 unusual for me, and one that I find somewhat difficult; but I consider it a signal distinction to be permitted to take a prominent part in the proceedings of this day, which are intended to commemorate one of the greatest of the great triumphs of freedom, and to do honor to a most eminent instrument in the achievement