W. G. GRACE THANKS HIS FRIENDS.

Press, Volume LII, Issue 9289, 14 December 1895, Page 4

W. G. GRACE THANKS HIS FRIENDS.

The following, was Grace's reply to the letter with which the editor of the Daily Teltqrami accompanied the national gift of 100,003 shillings:—

Dear Sir Edward Lawson.—With my sincerest thanks I acknowledge the receipt of your letter atid the cheque for £55900, representing the 100,000 shillings subscribed to the Daily Telegraph National Shilling Testimonial started by you in my honour. I am powerless to express all that I feel on this matter, but will try to do so, however imperfectly I may succeed. First of all, I Avill thank you personally for initiating the movement and alloAving the columns of your paper to be used to acknowledge contributions, and for so handsomely heading the list. To haA'e attained proficiency in the national game has eA*er been a source of pleasure to mc, but to be the recipient of such a recognition from my felloAv-countrymen, both at home and abroad, as well, as from very many not of our nationality, S*S an honour as unexpected as it is overwhelming, and one for Avhich lam most deeply grateful. The expressions of personal kindness and goodwill contained in many of the letters which you have from time to time published haA'e touched mc more than I can tell you, and haA'e, indeed, afforded mc as much gratification as the practical tribute of the writers. I can only marvel at the prodigious number and generosity of my friends. I think and belieA-e, Avith gratitude and pride, that I must have more than any other man ever possessed. May the noble game which has been such a source of happiness and pleasure to mc flourish for ever, and continue to help to make our lx>ys into good and manly men. Your wish for mc that I may have a " good innings throughout all the phases of this game of life" I cannot do better than reiterate for you and all my kind friends in the universe. Believe mc to remain, Yours very sincerely, W. G. Grace. 15, Victoria-square, Clifton, Bristol. October 16.