As in nature, as in art, so in grace; it is rough treatment that gives souls, as well as stones, their luster.

He studied at Edinburgh University for both surgery and anatomy (under Dr Robert Knox) but then concentrated on Theology. W. It bears the following inscriptions:
An eloquent preacher of the gospel.

Born at Brechin Forfarshire. He was made Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland in 1872. Possessed of a commanding presence and voice and a remarkably effective and picturesque style of oratory he became perhaps the most popular preacher of his day in Scotland and was associated with many forms of philanthropy especially temperance and ragged schools of which he was a founder.