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The Edinburgh Election, 1856. 'The nomination of candidates for the representation of Edinburgh took place on a hustings erected in front of the Signet Library...Mr. Adam Black came forward to address the constituency, and at the end of an able speech, in the course of which he dealt some hard blows at his antagonists, he defended himself against the charge of being a mere Whig...Mr. Brown Douglas also addressed the electors, speaking against Popery, and professing himself a supporter of the war policy of Lord Palmerston. The show of hands was in favour of Mr. Douglas. A poll was demanded on behalf of Mr. Black, which took place on the following day, when he was returned by a majority of 643 over his opponent. The numbers polled for the two candidates were: For Mr. Black: 2439. For Mr. Douglas; 1796'. Black founded the A & C Black publishing company. From "Illustrated London News", 1856.