The work of the following session, 1883–1884, proved easier than the first, “but just yet the Chair is not a ‘bed of roses.’ It takes up more time than I had reckoned for.”
[From an etching by Mr William Hole, A.R.S.A.
A Study of Prof. Geikie in 1884.
Spring brought two distractions, the Tercentenary celebrations of Edinburgh University, and preparations for a visit to Canada and the United States in connection with the British Association meeting at Montreal. Of the former Prof. Geikie soon wearied, and voiced his weariness, and perhaps some remains of resentment in regard to those winter nights spent—fruitlessly from his point of view—in “getting-up” uncongenial subjects, in a series of verses. These at the time were shown only to privileged friends, but may be quoted here now for the sake of those who can see a joke, even if it is partly at their own expense. They make it clear that the author was not yet wholly reconciled to academic life.
TO MY ALMA MATER ON THE COMPLETION OF HER 300TH YEAR
1.
Hail stately pile! hail treasure-house of lore!
Dear nurse of many a wit and many a bore!