“The Rev. John Milne, of Perth, was in some respects a remarkable man, and was much beloved by all who knew him. He was earnest and open-hearted, and ever had a word to utter for the Master. He never refused invitations to preach for his neighbours. He never missed an opportunity of trying to do good. If travelling in a railway carriage, he would engage the passengers in religious conversation. If he hired a cab, he would speak to the cabman about being ‘saved.’ If he saw a poor woman carrying a basket, he would offer to help her, saying ‘that we ought to bear one another’s burdens.’ If a man begged from him, he would give a coin, and tell him to ‘beg for his soul.’ To fishermen mending their nets, he would say that he too was a fisherman, and he wished to catch men. To stone-breakers he would say that he was a stone-breaker, trying to break stoney hearts. He would tell boys selling newspapers that he had a newspaper that never grew old, meaning the Bible. When he saw anyone in mourning, he would go up to them, speak of their bereavement, say that he sympathised with them, and so did Christ.
When the Queen came to Perth to uncover a statue of Prince Albert, Mr Milne was anxious that she should receive some spiritual benefit at his hands. He wished to present her with a copy of a favourite hymn. He found no opportunity of doing it personally, but Lord Mansfield introduced him to a gentleman who assured him that the hymn would be presented to the Queen.
Many a time, now more than twenty years ago, did Mr Milne stop the writer of this book on Perth Bridge, or by the river side; he would look at his bundle of books, and ask how he was getting on with his studies in Virgil or Homer. Then would follow an invitation to his Bible-class. His manner was so simple, his character so transparent, that as soon as he spoke it was evident that he had but one object in view, and that was to lead the soul to the living Lord, that it there might enjoy rest, pardon, and peace.”
(From the Religious Anecdotes of Scotland by William Adamson.)