[4] In a kind note received from Mr. Macdougall, dated St. Thomas, May 29th, 1889, he said:—"The ceremonies of unveiling were everything that could be looked for, and were well carried out. The speaking was good and quite sufficient of it.... It must be to you and to your family a gratifying reflection that you will be remembered in history as having largely contributed by personal exertion towards the erection of a monument to the memory of one of Canada's greatest sons."
[5] Having submitted the draft of this inscription to several of Dr. Ryerson's clerical friends, I received the following in reply:—
From the Rev. Dr. Douglass, Montreal:—
"Thanks for your very kind favor. The name of Dr. Ryerson will be forever sacred in my heart's best affection. I have read the proposed inscription with very much care and interest. I think it is comprehensive in its scope, and accurate and elegant in detail. I really can offer no suggestion. I congratulate you upon the completeness with which you have executed your talk. With best wishes, ever and truly yours, G. D."
From the Rev. J. A. Williams, D.D., Toronto:—
"I very much approve of the proposed inscription for the memorial to the late lamented Dr. Ryerson. It recognizes his worth and distinguished ability, as a writer, as an educationist, and as a patriot. It is a fitting tribute from one who knew him well and so long. With much and sincere respect, I am, yours very truly, J. A. W."
From the Rev. John Potts, D.D., Toronto:—
"No pen but yours should write the inscription for Dr. Ryerson's monument. What you enclose is an elegant and eloquent tribute to our dear departed father. The committee will accept the inscription with thanks. Ever yours, J. P."
From the late Rev. Dr. Nelles, Cobourg (whom the committee wished to be consulted on the matter). He said:
"The inscription, in its present form, pleases me best of all, and is well nigh perfect, doing 'credit to your head and heart,' as the phrase is.
"I am sure we shall get the thing perfect before we leave it. And the old Doctor deserves that two such loving sons should bestow their best efforts in such a matter.
"The 'final revise' [subsequently sent] may, I think, now be accepted. It will bear criticism.... You have in you an illimitable power of improvement, and this last is still better than any other. Affectionately yours, S. S. N."