[204] Among some “miscellaneous anecdotes” recorded by Sir R. Hill I find the following: “I used at one time to walk to Camden Town, take an omnibus as far as the corner of Gray’s Inn Lane and Holborn, and thence walk to St. Martin’s Le Grand. One day, while sitting in the omnibus, I overheard one gentleman say to another, ‘I understand that Mr. Rowland Hill often travels in these omnibuses.’ ‘Oh, yes,’ replied the other, who chanced to sit nearly opposite me, ‘I very often meet him—I know him quite well.’ Of course I held my peace, not deeming it necessary to disconcert my familiar acquaintance.”—Ed.
[205] “Sixth Report,” p. 9.
[206] Mr. Gladstone wrote to Mr. Sikes the following letter:—
“14, Downing Street, Whitehall, 30th November, 1859.
“Dear Sir,—I have read with much interest your tract on Post Office Savings’ Banks, and have discussed the subject with Sir A. Spearman, who has also had some communication with the Post Office authorities.
“The difficulties are very serious, chiefly in connection with the question of interest and the mode of account for it. “At the same time there is so much of promise in the plan on the face of it, that we are unwilling to let it drop without a most careful examination.
“If you are likely to be in London, or were disposed to come hither, personal communication on details might be of advantage. Sir A. Spearman would be most ready to see you for the purpose of entering into them fully, and I should be very desirous myself to give any aid in my power at the proper time.
“I remain, Dear Sir, yours very faithfully,
“W. E. Gladstone.
“C. W. Sikes, Esq.” —Ed.
[207] “Report of Select Committee on Postage (1843),” p. 41.