There was an evident sincerity, and an elegance in the expression of this flattering compliment, that was calculated to make a deep impression upon a sensitive mind; and it naturally laid the foundation for that affectionate regard, amounting almost to veneration, which, during an intercourse of twenty years, every circumstance contributed to strengthen. In describing the character of the Duke of Portland, Mr. Repton says, "few men so well understood that genuine politeness which springs from the wish to see others comfortable, extending itself to the act of making them so; and in all his words, actions, conversations, and correspondence, there was a marked attention and civility which seemed the effect of nature rather than of art-in fact, it was both; it was an habitual benevolence, which is as visible in trifles as in the most important matters, and as evident in a short note as in a volume. Of all the persons from whom I have ever received letters, there was none who wrote with more marked attention to the value of my time than the Duke of Portland; and it is always flattering to a professional man to suppose his time fully occupied. * * * * The last time I saw his Grace, was at Burlington House, 27th February, 1806; in his usual kind manner, he requested me to spend a day or two at Bulstrode, before he met me in Easter week; but begged I would suit my own convenience in the time, and, even in meeting him at Easter, not to interfere with any other engagement. I said that I should always consider his early notice and patronage as the source of all the fame I had acquired in my profession; and, therefore, I should never let any engagement whatever prevent my attending first to his Grace's wishes, whenever he would have the goodness to let me know them. He very cordially and kindly replied, 'Mr. Repton, that very circumstance makes me sometimes unwilling to put you to inconvenience."
