ABSTRACT
He is anxious for instruction, and so far from affecting the big-wig, is not afraid to learn anything from anyone. The notes he takes are amazing; many a one he has had from me today. He is very helpless in the field without people to point things out to him; quite inexperienced and unable to see his way either physically or geologically. He could not map a mile, but understands all when explained, and speculates thereon well…. He wore spectacles half the day, and looked ten years older in consequence. (Diary of A.C. Ramsay quoted in Geikie, 1895, pp. 180-1)
It was only in the last ten years of his life that his eyes really failed him and he was forced to employ a full-time secretary.
