Scholefield, Esq., M.P., James Spence, Esq., Liverpool, William Vansittart, Esq., M.P.
* * * * * Chairman: A.J.B.Beresford Hope, Esq.
Treasurer: The Lord Eustace Cecil.
] [Footnote 1145: _The Liberator_, Feb.

26, 1864.] [Footnote 1146: _The Index_, March 17, 1864, p.174.An amusing reply from an "historian" inclined to dodge is printed as of importance.

One would like to know his identity, and what his "judicial situation" was.
"An eminent Conservative historian writes as follows: 'I hesitate to become a member of your Association from a doubt whether I should take that open step to which my inclinations strongly prompt me, or adhere to the neutrality in public life to which, as holding a high and responsible judicial situation in this country, I have hitherto invariably confined myself.

And after mature consideration I am of opinion that it will be more decorous to abide in this instance by my former rule.

I am the more inclined to follow this course from the reflection that by not appearing in public as an advocate of the Southern States, I shall be able to serve their cause more effectually in my literary character.