“We understand that Sir Henry Ellis has resigned the situation of Principal Librarian. The majority of persons employed in that Institution, and of the public who frequent it, would be delighted at an event that ought to have occurred many years ago, if it were not that an extraordinary influence is likely to obtain the appointment for a foreigner. It is of the highest importance that this affront to British genius and character be avoided, and that the right man be put in the right place. When the Marquis of Lansdowne, from the best motives, made the previous unfortunate selection, there was a regulator that no longer exists; the vigilant interference of the lamented Joseph Hume often prevented official tyranny and petty vexation.” In accordance with the Act of Parliament 26 Geo. II. cap. 22, the Principal Librarian of the British Museum is selected by the Sovereign from two persons recommended by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Lord Chancellor, and the Speaker of the House of Commons, who are (as has already been remarked) the “Principal Trustees.” Up to the year 1850, it will be remembered that the offices of Principal Librarian and of Secretary were distinct appointments. The Secretary, whose duties and position were at first simply clerical, gradually assumed such importance that, though still nominally second to the Principal Librarian, he was practically the Chief Officer of the Museum, not always acting in unison with his superior in rank; it was found, therefore, to be more desirable for the welfare of the Museum, as well as more economical that the two offices should be blended, and they were united in the person of Sir Henry Ellis. In reference to this subject we invite the attention of our readers to the following letter from that gentleman:— “British Museum, February 14th, 1856. “My dear Panizzi, You seem to doubt whether, in the event of my resignation of office, you would be likely to succeed me in it. I cannot help thinking that you must be mistaken, although I have certainly heard that a candidate or two are either in the field, or intending to apply when the resignation becomes a reality. At the same time I must tell you I have heard no names. I think it quite impossible that anybody who has not had experience in the Institution should be appointed. Yours is, most unquestionably, the portion of the Museum which is not only the largest, but the most useful and extensive for public instruction; the time of life, the toil, and the power of mind which you have brought to bear upon it and upon its improvement convince me that no stranger, especially without the knowledge which the experience of a quarter of a century has given you in the view of general management of the place, ought to be allowed to compete with you on this occasion.