A Biographical Dictionary of Eminent Scotsmen, Volume 1

Excerpt from A Biographical Dictionary of Eminent Scotsmen, Vol. 3 of 4: Division V, Horner Lesley

Although defeated in their struggle, the appearance which Mr Horner made in it, was so highly respectable as to deepen the impression which his talents and knowledge had already made on the house and from this period he appears to have exercised very considerable influence with all parties. Indeed, the urbanity of his manners, and the moderation with which he pressed his own views, were such as secured for him the respect, at least, of those from whom he differed in opinion and while steadily and consistently supporting the party to which he belonged, he displayed a Spirit of tolerance towards his Opponents which totally subdued any thing like personal animosity on their part. His efforts were then often more successful than those of more gifted men, who, with greater talents, have nevertheless greater prejudice, frequently amounting to personal dislike, to struggle against. It has been supposed that had Mr Homer been in parliament after the death of Mr Ponsonby, he would have become the leader of the Opposition. But for an honour so great as this, providence had not destined him. Constant application to business and the increasing weight and multiplicity of his engagements, at last overpowered a constitution which never was very strong. Indications Of pulmonary consumption soon appeared, and immediate removal to a warmer climate was deemed necessary by his physi cians. Crossing, therefore, to the continent, he passed through France and entered Italy; but the seeds of mortal disease had begun to spring before he took farewell of his own country, and he expired at Pisa, on the 8th of F ebru ary, 1817, in the 38th year of his age. His remains were interred in the Pro testant burying-ground at Leghorn, which also contains the ashes Of Smollett.

On the occasion of a new writ being moved for the borough of St Mawes, which Mr Horner had represented, the character of the deceased member was elegantly sketched by lord Morpeth, and eloquent and affecting tributes of respect paid to his memory by several of the most distinguished members Of the house.

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