11 FEBRUARY 1860, Page 7

SCOTLAND.

The testimonial to Mr. Russel, editor of the Scotsman, originated last year, was presented to that able journalist, on Monday, in the Waterloo Rooms, Edinburgh, in presence: of a large number of the contributors. Sir W. G. Craig presented the testimonial, towards which he stated that the sum of 17731. 1 la. had been subscribed. This testimonial, he said, was of no ordinary kind, and was such as, he believed, had never before been given to any one in the position of a public journalist. It was remarkable, not merely from the amount contributed, but from the list of contributors, which included the names of many peers and others of the highest rank in the kingdom,—some who had been Cabinet Ministers, many who were Members of Parliament, representing large constituencies, and many men who were in high social position, and holding an eminent place in literature and science. The presentation consisted of 1600 sovereigns, a silver salver and jug, and timepiece. The plate was inscribed as follows :—" To Alexander Russel, Esq., editor of the Scotsman, in recognition of his able and constant advocacy of enlightened political principles, by which he has largely contributed to the diffusion of sound liberal opinions in Scotland, and as a mark of respect for his honourable and independent conduct in public and private life. 1860." Mr. Russel, in acknowledging the gift, said he hoped it would stir him up more and more to do his duty in the profession to which he was proud to belong, and stimulate him to stronger attachment to, and greater effort for, the good old cause of liberty, with order, pro- gress with security, free Government, free thought, and free speech.

A "national outrage on the feelings of Scotland" is in contemplation. It has been proposed to transfer from Scotland to England the Account- ant's branch of the Post-office ! A meeting, attended by Mr. Cowan, Sir John M'Neill, Mr. Duncan M'Laren, and others, has been held in Edin- burgh, to protest against the outrage.