Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 1 (of 2) by John Roby
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elegant prose writer, an able botanist and physiologist. Possessing a
fine ear, rich voice, and great musical taste, he not only took his vocal share in part-song, but wrote several melodies, which have been published. In one species of rapid mental calculation, or rather combination of figures--giving in an instant the sum of a double column of twenty figures in each row, or a square of six figures--he far excelled Bidder, the calculating boy. He was a skilful draughtsman, a clever mimic and ventriloquist, an excellent _raconteur_, an accomplished conversationist, ever fascinating in the select social circle, and always "tender and wise" in that of home. He was a man of genuine benevolence, a cordial friend, an affectionate husband and father, and a humble and devout Christian. His family crest was a garb or wheat-sheaf, with the motto, "I am ready;" and in his case--though his death was sudden and unexpected--illness and bereavement, mental and physical suffering--in short, the chastenings and discipline of life, had done their work. His "sheaf" was "ready for the garner." _October_ 1866. FOOTNOTES: [5] This Memoir has been almost wholly derived from the "Sketch of the Literary Life and Character of John Roby," written by his widow, and occupying 117 pages of the posthumous volume of his _Legendary and Poetical Remains_. PREFACE TO THE FIRST SERIES. |
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