Letter from George Gilfillan, Dundee, to William Angus Knight, 1872 July 11 : autograph manuscript signed.

Commenting on Knight's statement at the "proceedings;" saying "In one sense as an outsider I have no right to advize you but in another as an experienced Heretic myself I may assume it for the nonce - I earnestly hope you will not sacrifice one atom of your statement to these bigots - I did so to some extent as you know when my case was pending and I very deeply regret it - I did not then know that I had much sympathy in the Church. I knew afterward when too late that I had a great deal. So I think that whatever be the opposition among your brethren here you may depend upon a large amount of support in other places and even among the general public here. Depend on it. The outcry of Wilson and the rest yesterday against your Statement was forced and hollow and will in the end seem so to all but the narrowest. Let them do their worst - it can only be rebuke and even against that if you cannot conscientiously submit to it you can appeal to the Assembly...At the same time I regret now that you gave them any handle knowing them as you did. But that regret w'd flee if I saw in this case prosecuted as I sh'd like to see it an augury and pledge of better and more liberal times coming to this priest ridden and unenquiring Christian! and you have a noble door open before you."