Andrew Johnston (Scottish politician)

Had they returned a Tory, he would not have been listened to, whereas Mr. Johnston, as a supporter of Lord Grey's Government, was able to procure a change in their original intention of simple disfranchisement, and the five boroughs were united with the larger towns of Cupar and St. Andrew's, in which form the constituency survives to the present day.

With Whig principles, he united strong religious convictions, and both led him to support with ardour the philanthropic measures which followed in quick succession the great Reform Act.

Shortly after this event Mr. Buxton wrote: "I surrendered my vocation, and next to Macaulay my best human helper in it, on the same day, and I am not only well contented, but very happy, and very thankful that she is so bestowed."

After his marriage, Mr. Johnston remained closely associated with his father-in-law in Parliamentary work until they both lost their seats at the General Election after the death of William IV.

At the age of sixty-two he took command of the 7th Suffolk Eifle Company, becoming very popular with the members of the corps, some of whom still remember his cheery, "Gentlemen, rendezvous in the Market Place," the march out to Holton Hall, and the hospitable welcome which always greeted them there.

The memory of this gifted lady is still cherished in Halesworth, where her ready sympathy, her charities, and the large part which she and her husband bore in the life of that rather quiescent market town, are a well-kept tradition.

During Mrs. Johnston's life the summer months were spent by the family at Southwold, then a quiet watering place, and within easy driving distance from Halesworth.