The letters in this chapter, written between the end of April and the middle of November, 1900, cover a period of extraordinary literary activity. Encouraged by the gratifying manner in which her academic distinction had been acknowledged by friends and public bodies, Miss Ormerod began with renewed vigour, and with something almost akin to prophetic instinct of what was to come in the not-far-distant future, to produce and to arrange for the production of, the literature that was needed to complete her life-work and to be a record of it. Another conspicuous feature of this chapter is the practical means she adopted to immediately show gratitude to the University for the perspicacity shown by conferring its degree, which was treasured by her above all things as the highest possible recognition of her scientific labours.
To Professor Robert Wallace, University Edinburgh.
April 29, 1900.
Dear Professor Wallace,—I have been reading parts of the “advance” proof of your paper [to be read before the London Farmers’ Club in April, 1900], and it seems to me capital, and to meet the needs plainly and practically. I wish you much success. I can speak from personal knowledge as to want of dipping being excellent for increase of Melophagus ovinus [so called sheep tick] (fig. [25]).
Mr. Druce [Secretary of the Club], writes me kindly that he intends to propose a vote of congratulation to me to-morrow on the honour conferred on me by the Edinburgh University, and this would be a great pleasure to me, for I feel it a very great honour indeed. From many good quarters I am receiving letters on this point, also on the benefit to agriculture which the approval of Edinburgh will give.
April 30, 1900.
I am arranging with Elliott and Fry, the photographers, 55, Baker Street, that they should send down a “representative” on Monday with proofs of photos, the bearer to be here by train arriving at about half-past ten a.m. But the truth is, that if you think I might ask acceptance, just as their first Hon. Lady LL.D., I should very much like to offer to the University one of Elliott and Fry’s life-size chalk or oil portraits executed in their best way as a remembrance of the 14th of April. Do you think I might?
I am glad to know they spoke kindly of me at the Farmers’ Club. I am sure I have some good friends there, and I thought it very kind of them to send me their vote of congratulation on my great honour.
[The London Farmers’ Club, at its April meeting, 1900, passed with acclamation the following resolution:—“That the hearty congratulations of the Club are hereby offered to its Honorary Lady Member, Miss Eleanor A. Ormerod, upon the distinguished dignity of LL.D. recently conferred upon her honoris causa by the University of Edinburgh.” A copy of the resolution was transmitted by the Secretary to the Senatus of the University of Edinburgh.]
May 11, 1900.