
youth of Edinburgh and of London.
    The civil regulations of this kingdom and metropolis are taken from very
different models from those of England, except in a few particular
establishments, the necessary consequences of the union. - Their college of
justice is a bench of great dignity, filled with judges of character and
ability. - I have heard some causes tried before this venerable tribunal; and
was very much pleased with the pleadings of their advocates, who are by no means
deficient either in argument or elocution. The Scottish legislation is founded,
in a great measure, on the civil law; consequently, their proceedings vary from
those of the English tribunals; but, I think, they have the advantage of us in
their method of examining witnesses apart, and in the constitution of their
jury, by which they certainly avoid the evil which I mentioned in my last from
Lismahago's observation.
    The university of Edinburgh is supplied with excellent professors in all the
sciences; and the medical school, in particular, is famous all over Europe. -
The students of this art have the best opportunity of learning it to perfection,
in all its branches, as there are different courses for the theory of medicine,
and the practice of medicine; for anatomy, chemistry, botany, and the materia
medica, over and above those of mathematics and experimental philosophy; and all
these are given by men of distinguished talents. What renders this part of
education still more complete, is the advantage of attending the infirmary,
which is the best instituted charitable foundation that I ever knew. Now we are
talking of charities, here are several hospitals, exceedingly well endowed, and
maintained under admirable regulations; and these are not only useful, but
ornamental to the city. Among these, I shall only mention the general
work-house, in which all the poor, not otherwise provided for, are employed,
according to their different abilities, with such judgment and effect, that they
nearly maintain themselves by their labour, and there is not a beggar to be seen
within the precincts of this metropolis. It was Glasgow that set the example of
this establishment, about thirty years ago. - Even the kirk of Scotland, so long
reproached with fanaticism and canting, abounds at present with ministers
celebrated for their learning, and respectable for their moderation. - I have
heard their sermons with equal astonishment and pleasure. - The good people of
Edinburgh no longer think dirt and cobwebs essential to the house of God. - Some
of their churches have admitted such ornaments as would have excited sedition,
even in England, a little more than a
