week, and I have not yet been laughed at, as Wilberforce is the
only one who hears them, being in my class. We are exercised also
once a week in English composition, and once in Latin
composition, and letters of persons renowned in history to each
other. We get by heart Greek grammar or Virgil every evening. As
for sermon-writing, I have hitherto got off with credit, and I
hope I shall keep up my reputation. We have had the first meeting
of our debating society the other day, when a vote of censure was
moved for upon Wilberforce, but he getting up said, "Mr.
President, I beg to second the motion." By this means he escaped.
The kindness which Mr. Preston shows me is very great. He always
assists me in what I cannot do, and takes me to walk out with him
every now and then. My room is a delightful snug little chamber,
which nobody can enter, as there is a trick about opening the
door. I sit like a king, with my writing-desk before me; for,
(would you believe it?) there is a writing-desk in my chest of
drawers; my books on one side, my box of papers on the other, with
my arm-chair and my candle; for every boy has a candlestick,
snuffers, and extinguisher of his own. Being pressed for room, I
will conclude what I have to say to-morrow, and ever remain,

Your affectionate son,

THOMAS B. MACAULAY.

The youth who on this occasion gave proof of his parentage by his
readiness and humour was Wilberforce's eldest son. A fortnight
later on, the subject chosen for discussion was "whether Lord
Wellington or Marlborough was the greatest general. A very warm
debate is expected."