Hence it is amongst the noble band of resolute spirits that we look for those who raise and elevate the world, as well as themselves.
The recollection of what they have done, acts as a stimulus to others.
It braces the mind of man, reanimates his will, and encourages him to further exertions.
When Lord Elcho addressed the East Lothian colliers, he named several men who had raised themselves from the coalpit; and first of all he referred to Mr.Macdonald, member for Stafford.

"The beginning of my acquaintance with Mr.Macdonald," he said, "was, when I was told that a miner wanted to see me in the lobby of the House of Commons.

I went out and saw Mr.Macdonald, who gave me a petition from this district, which he asked me to present.

I entered into conversation with him, and was much struck by his intelligence.

He told me that he had begun life as a boy in the pit in Lanarkshire, and that the money he saved as a youth in the summer, he spent at Glasgow University in the winter; and that is where he got whatever book-learning or power of writing he possesses.