No Saxon parliament of the Heptarchy could "hold a candle to it." Never, in any age or country of free speech, did individual ideas, idiosyncrasies, and liberty of conscience have freer scope and play.

Never did all the isms of philanthropy, politics, or of social and moral reform generally have such a harmonious trysting time of it.

Never was there a platform erected for discussing things local and general so catholic as the one now resting upon the wheels of those farm wagons.

Every year the bland and venerable host succeeds in widening the area of debate.

I was invited to be present at the Festival this year, but was too far on the road to John O'Groat's to participate in a pleasure I have often enjoyed.