In the life of Lady Colquhoun of Luss there is the following interesting reference to her brother, Sir George Sinclair of Ulbster:—
“MY brother George is also with us. He gave a noble proof to-day of devotedness to the King of kings. When an invitation from the palace came for him to dine with our monarch on this sacred day, he did not hesitate a moment to send a refusal, which he did in most respectful and affectionate terms. How this will be taken it is impossible to say; but I rejoice that an opportunity has been afforded my brother of showing his sincerity at the court, and that I have a brother capable of acting thus. May the Almighty bless and preserve him!”
The incident to which the foregoing extract relates afforded great delight to Lady Colquhoun. Her brother was staying with her at the time, and as valued relics she preserved the card of invitation, dated, “Pavilion, Jan. 15, 1832,” and a copy of the answer, which she sought leave to transcribe. And we are sure that Sir George Sinclair will forgive the publication of that letter if it contribute, however, remotely, to a cause which he has much at heart: “Sire,—No one can value more highly than I do, the honour and privilege of being at any time permitted to enjoy that social intercourse with which your Majesty has, on so many occasions, been pleased to indulge me for so many years. But I am fully aware with how much consideration your Majesty enters into the feelings and sympathies with the wishes of those whom you honour with your friendship. I have for some time past been led to entertain very different notions from those which I once cherished as to the observance of this day, and subscribe fully to the views which the Church, and I may add the legislature, have laid down with respect to its importance. Encouraged by the latitude of discussion which your Majesty has so long and so kindly vouchsafed, I lately took the liberty, though in opposition to your Majesty’s opinion, to maintain that not merely a “part” but the “whole” of this day should be devoted to those great purposes for which divine authority has set it apart. I may be permitted to add, from grateful experience, that this decision has its reward even here. I have found that God honours those who honour him, and though encompassed with sin and infirmity, I can testify, that He is not an austere Master, that He has strength for all our weaknesses, indemnity for all our sacrifices, and consolation for all our troubles. I feel bound, on principle of conscience, to deny myself, what is always one of my most valued gratifications, that of paying my humble and most affectionate respects this day, and must rest satisfied with renewing in my retirement those earnest supplications for your Majesty’s health and happiness, which are equally dictated by regard for the public welfare, and by a thankfully cherished remembrance of much distinguished and unmerited kindness.—I have the honour,” &c.
The sequel was no less worthy of the King. Next morning, whilst they were seated round the breakfast table, a royal messenger arrived charged with an invitation to the Pavilion that evening. His Majesty made no allusion to the letter; but to show how perfectly he appreciated the motives of his guest, he went beyond even his usual urbanity and kindness; and to the close of his reign no interruption occurred in a friendship equally honourable to the accomplished commoner and to the frank and warm-hearted monarch.