Note 1142a — PART IV. From the Reformation to the present time. (continued 8)

Our school, in Knox’s time was rendered very remarkable by having Eugene Aram for its usher; a man of uncommon acquirements and learning, but still more distinguished by his unhappy and miserable exit, and the horrid flagitiousness of at least one part of his life. He was apprehended here in 1759, under a charge of murder, committed in Yorkshire, 14 years before, and tried and convicted at York the ensuing assizes, and soon after executed. His defence at his trial was plausible and masterly; but it could avail against the preponderating evidence of his guilt. The extent of the learning in which he had made eminent proficiency was wonderful, considering the disadvantages under which he acquired it; and he died a melancholy proof that a very learned man may yet be desperately wicked, and commit the most heinous crimes.