one autograph letter signed to [?] Lanyon,

Judge (1830-1913), formulator of the celebrated "Macnaghten rules" of criminal insanity. 3 pp, 12mo. He makes interesting comments on the process of public appointments. "I am sorry to say it is out of my power to comply with your wishes. It is not considered proper in a person holding a judicial office as I happen to do to ask for anything or to put himself in the way of coming under an obligation to any body. At the same time I am happy to think that in regard any [sic] appointment of importance interest counts for very little - As far as my experience goes (and as a member of the other house I have had some experience) in answer to a recommendation one got a civil answer and that was the end of it - I do think that any person in whose gift an appointment of importance lies does really endeavour to appoint the best man, guided only by the recommendation of those who are qualified to speak / I have no doubt that your well known position in your profession and your great experience will have their proper weight with the Government / Wishing you all success / I am yours v. truly / Macnaghten". Four pieces of gummed paper from mounting adhering to blank verso of second leaf.