322 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
In the University of Edinburgh the taste for Grecian literature had been gradually
giving way. Besides, the great fame of Professor Moor of the Glasgow
College, together with the excellent editions of the Greek classics then issuing
from the press of the Foulises, had well-nigh annihilated the reputation of the
capital altogether. The enthusiasm and ability of Professor Dalziel, however,
imparted new life to the study of classical learning; and the various improvements
which he introduced in his system of tuition, tended in an eminent degree
to restore the character of the University, and to draw around him students
from the most distant quarters. The elementary class-books he compiled were
so well adapted to the object for which they were designed, that they soon
found their way into many of the chief schools of England ; and, with certain
modifications and improvements, are still very generally in use.
Professor Dalziel was in the habit of delivering a series of lectures to his
students on Grecian history, antiquities, literature, philosophy, and the fine arts.
These discourses were always well attended, and were deeply interesting even to
the youngest of his auditors. “There was a witchery in his address which
could prevail alike over sloth and over levity,” and never failed to rivet the
attention of his hearers.
When the Royal Society of Edinburgh was instituted in 1783, Mr. Dalziel
was prevailed on to undertake the duties of Secretary to its literary class ; and
to his labours while acting in this capacity, the Society is indebted for several
able essays and other interesting communications.
On the death of Dr. James Robertson, Professor of Oriental Languages in
1795, Mr. Dalziel, who had been associated with him as conjunct Secretary and
Librarian, was appointed Keeper of the College Library, having as his assistant
Mr. Duke Gordon, with whom he lived on terms of great intimacy ; and, on
whose death, in 1802, he did ample justice to his memory, in an exceedingly
well written and very interesting memoir of his life, which he communicated
to the Editor of the Scots Magazine.
After a lingering illness, Mr. Dalziel died on the 8th December 1806. He
was married to a daughter of Dr. Drysdale, his early friend and benefactor-a
lady of distinguished accomplishments and sweetness of temper, by whom he
had several children.
In stature
he was among the tallest of the middle size; his complexion was fair ; his
aspect mild and interesting ; his eyes were blue, and full of vigorous expression ;
and his features plump, without heaviness or grossness. His address was graceful
and impressive. He took little exercise ; but when he did walk, his favourite
resort was the King’s Park. The attitude in which he is portrayed in the
Print represents him in one of his rural excursions. During the latter period
of his life Mr. Dalziel resided within the College, in the house which had been
long occupied by Principal Robertson.
The personal appearance of Professor Dalziel was prepossessing.
