Edinburgh, 24th Aug. 1871.
Madam,
I beg to enclose a P.O.O. for eight shillings. This small sum is subscribed by a few working men in aid of the fund for defraying the Law expences so unjustly thrust upon Miss Jex-Blake for simply speaking the truth in her own defence in a Straightforward Manner. They deeply sympathise with this lady in the noble struggle[struggle] she is making for Womens right to a liberal education and remunerative employment. May she be of good cheer, of good courage, and continue steadfast unto the end.
I am, Madam,
Your obedient Servant,
James Gray.
P.S. If this subscription be advertised please put it, A few working men—8s. It is payable at the Nicholson Street Post Office.
Miss A. M‘Laren.”
There was almost always an element of comic relief, too, about these tragic and moving situations. The following letter was one of those which provided it in this case:
“58 Altom Street,