From all which sources combined, there cannot be a question but that a very important amount would be annually raised, conducing much to the comfort and information of members, and to the extension and prosperity of the Association, and leaving a surplus for such purposes as time and experience pointed out as expedient for perfecting the design.
A severe illness having prevented me from the much-anticipated enjoyment of the British Archæological Meeting at Canterbury, but rejoicing to hear of the sure foundations it has laid for the fulfilment of all I have hoped from the institution, I beg leave to add a few words to the hasty suggestions I had thus far committed to the Secretaries, (with the intention of revising and extending,) should they be deemed worthy of being read.
My purpose is only to request my fellow-members not to be startled by any of my propositions, and like all the sceptics in regard to new views or plans, start hastily into opposition to what they may at first sight think impracticable or inapplicable. Rome was not built in a day; nor is there one of these hints for the future offered except for mature deliberation as the Society rises in power and importance. Nor is there one of them so connected with the rest, that, if deemed worthy, it might not be adopted whilst the others were postponed or dismissed.
But I trust I may be permitted to say that none have been rashly thrown out, nor indeed without much consideration; and had I not been, so much to my regret, disabled by sickness from taking part in the proceedings, I should have been ready with strong arguments to support the opinions I have ventured to indicate. No inconsiderable experience in the formation and early care of now great National Associations, may, I trust, entitle what I have put together, however roughly, to be thought of in due time, not as vague or sanguine speculations, but parts or wheels which may be incorporated into this great antiquarian machine, with advantage to its practical working, and with satisfaction to all who may take an interest in enlarging and improving its operations.
Praying at any rate forgiveness for the imperfections of a sick couch, I heartily congratulate the Association on the splendid result of its first public effort. Esto perpetua.
