Three generations

SIR JAMES-MURRAY 355
charges of their own was lately received with high
critical approval. The volume was dedicated to the
writers' old teacher and chief with much gratitude
and affection. Unfortunately, ill-health has compelled
Dr. Fairbairn to resign his principalship.
In appearance Dr. Fairbairn has been originally
of sanguine complexion, with features irregular almost
to a bizarre effect. No face could beam on the world
with more genuine benevolence.
The fourth figure in the group has been perhaps the
most typically Scotch. It is that of Dr. Murray, now
Sir James Murray, formerly head-master of Mill Hill
School, and for a considerable number of years editor
of the great twentieth-century dictionary. With his
hair white betimes, his serious, intent face, his still
vigorous step, he is a conspicuous figure in the gates
with integrity, erudition, determination, and honest
urbanity and accessibility stamped legibly upon him.
His methodically fixed hours and habits of working,
his quaintly precise accuracy, constitute a reproach to
all fitful, superficial, and slovenly workers. A visit to
his Scriptorium, his own idea and his own erection, is
an edifying experience which is not only open to
friends, but is courteously within the reach of all
accredited visitors to Oxford.
The Scriptorium is an iron building situated within
his grounds and near his house. Like all iron build-
ings, it is susceptible to the seasons. But a hardy,
indefatigable Scotchman minds little the heat of
summer or the cold of winter when engaged in the
business he has undertaken — business dear to his
heart and soul.
Sir James is no more distressed by the accidents of
atmosphere than distracted, as young assistants are