Janus: Additional Manuscripts c

Trinity/Add.Ms.c contains:
<-- See earlier
95	Henry Sidgwick: letters received P-Y
96	Henry Sidgwick: notes, lectures and student excercises
97	Henry Sidgwick: publications
98	Henry Sidgwick: out-letters
99	Henry Sidgwick: Letters to his mother
100	Letters to Mary Benson, F W H Myers et al.
101	Henry Sidgwick: Letters to Nora Sidgwick on or after Sidgwick's death, Mary Sidgwick to HS, HS to Spencer Baynes
102	Henry Sidgwick: Reviews of Henry Sidgwick: a memoir, biographical materials
103	Henry Sidgwick: Letters to Nora Sidgwick
104	Obituaries of Henry Sidgwick, biographical material, letters to Nora Sidgwick, papers realting to University reform and to the Grote Club.
105	Henry Sidgwick: Miscellaneous correspondence, autobiographical fragments
See later -->

More information

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Additional Manuscripts c

Title	Letters to Mary Benson, F W H Myers et al.
Reference	100
Covering Dates	1859–1900
Extent and Medium	280 docs

Index Terms

Benson, Mary (1841-1918) wife of Edward White Benson

Myers, Frederic William Henry (1843-1901) psychical researcher and essayist

Trinity/Add.Ms.c/100 contains:

1/1

Henry Sidgwick to his sister Mary "Minnie" Benson. Informs her that they have posts there [in Keswick] occasionally, if she wishes to write. Writes a list of 'pros and cons' in relation to their accommodation. Concludes that on the whole 'it is the best situation in Borrowdale: and therefore in the English Lakes: and therefore, for short mountain walks, in the World. Admits to not liking the scenery as much as he did three years previously, and thinks that neither does William, but concedes that the scenery is beautiful. Reports that they have met Edmund Fisher and his wife, 'who is nice and prettyish...' Announces that he reviewed a poem called 'Ludibria Lunae' in the Spectator. It is a satire on the efforts to emancipate women from their subjection, and he claims to have tried to be as stinging as he could, without showing that he had lost his temper. Announces that they expect Trevelyan soon, and that he is to be married on 24 September. Reports that William 'does not seem unwell particularly', but his sleeping has not improved as much as they had hoped. Sends his love to Edward and the children. Asks if she heard that 'F. Fisher' was engaged to his Bishop's daughter. .
1 doc.

15 Aug [1869]

1/2

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he is going to Cambridge 'on the 3rd', and is thinking of going to visit her for a night or two 'after the 11th and before the 18th if convenient.' Remarks that the Rugby news was a shock, and states that he ceases to advise acquiescence. Reports that AS was skating on the Downs. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to his sister Mary "Minnie" Sidgwick. Refers to the news [of her impending marriage to Edward White Benson], and explains that he has not spoken to her on the subject because 'it was Mamma's particular wish that it should not be spoken of...' Speaks of the delight he felt when he first heard of it, and of how the news seemed to him 'like the sudden realization of a fairy dream...' Speaks of his admiration for Edward, and of how the latter has almost become a part of their family. Tells her that they shall all miss her very much, and that he shall miss her especially, as his recent illness has taught him to be less selfish. Admits that they cannot grudge her to Edward, 'lonely as he must feel now after the life at Rugby...' Looks forward to the visits that he shall pay her. Prays for God's blessing to be upon herself and Edward. .
1 doc.

[1859]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her to inform Edward that he will begin to make enquiries 'as soon as the men come up', and states that '[i]t is probably that Eve will come if Fisher won't.' Claims to be 'in very low spirits', and puts into words some pessimistic thoughts. Refers to the following terms, which he claims to look forward to 'with some dread.' Reports that AS is with Lee Warner, and that 'Mamma is solitary'. States that he went with her on Monday as far as Ely, and that he left '[ ] The H[ ] and Shirley to console her...' Suggests that she [his sister] would like some poetry, and tells her that the translations he read to her can be obtained from her friend Miss Hedley. States that the latter stayed with them a week after she ["Minnie"] 'had gone off in that most unsisterly way on the 23rd June /59', and that he 'being then German-mad used occasionally to plague her with raptures etc', so she wrote her out 'two or three translations as a reward...' Reports that 'old Mr Martin' called on them at Rugby and narrated how she ["Minnie"] and he met Miss Hadley 'with one of the bald-headed uncles, and mistook him for the other bald-headed uncle. Asks her if she remembers how the 'b.h.d used to come to Redland, and how well they used to fold up their nightgowns when they were little boys...' Relates that Elizabeth says 'that William Jackson [warned] her...to take care of her boys' hair and make them get it cut [or else they would have no grey hairs to be bright down in sorrow to the grave...' Reminds her that Miss Harriet Atty was about to be led to the Hatter when she [Minnie] left Rugby, and informs her that on the day before her wedding Atty was presented with a diamond necklace by an old gentleman that she had met on the seaside some time before, and that the result was that 'it was noised abroad that the older Miss A. w[ould] presently become Mrs Old-Gentleman...' Sends his love to Edward, and asks her to tell him how many boys they have got. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Playfully threatens not to come to Wellington College if he does not receive a letter from her soon. Gives a list of questions which he expects her to be prepared to answer about her trip to Europe when he sees her. Reports that he arrived in Cambridge on Saturday, and that his examination begins on the following Thursday. States that if he gets a fellowship he shall have to be up [in Cambridge] 'on the 10th', and if not he shall be able to enjoy himself 'till the 15th', when he has to meet his pupils. Hopes that she is keeping up her spirits until he comes, and asks her if she found the heather looking splendid when she returned. Asks whether Edward knows the way to Sandhurst now. Supposes that the latter is very busy, and sends his love to him. .
1 doc.

[27 Sep 1859?]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Blames his lack of letter-writing on 'professional engagements'. Remarks on the respect with which he is treated by his pupils. Comments on the swift passage of time, and states that he has got more work than he intended to take, but that he is enjoying it very much, and only regrets that he has not much time for his private reading. Reports that AS is happily installed in his [HS's] old rooms, and is getting accustomed to Cambridge life. States that he is not strong, and will have to take care of himself. Finds that he has left some letters in a table drawer of the room he was in in her house, and asks her to let him have them, since the Ghost story that his mother sent him was among them, and he wishes to have it with him. Reports that he has heard 'a couple of fresh ones' from an Irish friend of his, and remarks that 'Ireland appears to be a soil in which they flourish well...' States that one of his rooms is 'beautifully cosy', and he knows that it will break his heart to part with it. Thanks her for her congratulations. Refers to '[p]oor Donne', who he met 'wandering...between the Station and the College.' Thinks that he is 'safe for the next time'. Sends his love to Edward, and reports that he read a letter of his in print the previous day. Asks her to give his love to his mother if she is there, and to tell her that he will write soon. Reports that AS fainted in chapel that day, but tells her not to tell their mother. .
1 doc.

[1859]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Admits that it was his own fault that the letters were lost, and only regrets that his mother has had to write again. Reports that his spiritual discoveries 'are rather languishing at present', and that his uncle Robert sent him a newspaper containing a story about a woman's dream which predicted the death of her son. Admits that he is getting very lazy about his German. Asks her how long she intends to stay at Rugby at Christmas. Refers to the degeneracy of his handwriting. Reports that he has a young American reading with him; 'a very nice fellow though somewhat odd', and who has been telling him about America. Refers to the [British] press, which was full of 'those foolishly irritating articles', which he thought would bring on a French war. Mentions that he began to think of emigrating to America when they appeared. Reports that the Rifle-corps [in Cambridge] 'are in high glee because Prince Albert has taken them under this protection', and explains that they 'had been almost wet-blanketed by Lord Hardwicke...who refused to grant commissions to under-graduates...' Remarks that they show their patriotism for the drill, 'for the most part at 8 o clock in the morning...' Supposes that Kingsley 'is strong on Riflecorps', and claims that they are all very well except at Cambridge. Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

[early 1860?]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that on the following Tuesday he goes to Germany, and states that he hopes that he shall not return until he can speak German fluently. Undertakes not to read any English, apart from her letters and the Times, and to speak it as little as possible. Asks her to tell Edward that he shall be in London from Friday until Tuesday morning, staying with J.J. Cowell in Hyde Park, and that he expects a visit from him. Explains that he wishes to see some friends who are going up for the Eton and Harrow match 'at Lords.' Reports that he heard on Monday from their mother, 'so is with William at B[ ] without Books', and states that he sent Whewell's Plato to her. Remarks that she seems to be enjoying herself. Regrets that he could not have gone down to visit his aunt Henrietta before he went abroad. Reports that he read through 'the famous "Leiden Werthe's" ' the other day, which, he claims, he could not put down until he finished it. States that he has begun on Jean Paul, but finds him very hard. Undertakes to write from abroad. Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

11 Jul [1860]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he has been 'bothered and unsettled' since he came to Berlin, and that he has now found family with whom to live - that of Dr L�dd[e ]-[Neurath]. Describes his lodgings as 'very simple and homely', and comments favourably on its cheapness as Berlin 'is a dear town for Germany'. Reports that he has a big room to himself, with a good view, and that he gets 'boarded and instructed as well...for under 10� for 6 weeks.' Refers to his linguistic skills. Reports that Patterson, who went to Germany with him, developed 'an infinite disgust of Berlin, the Germans, their manners customs and language', and HS could not persuade him to stay for longer than a fortnight, after which he went off to tour on his own account. Declares himself to be 'a wretched man for seeing sights', but claims that he went to Potsdam the other day. Claims that its palace is prettier and more interesting than the 'Schloss' in Berlin. Remarks on the 'intense hatred' that the Germans have for the name of Napoleon. Reports that they passed the palace where the Princess Frederic William resides. Claims that he saw the report of the 'W.C. speeches' in the Times, and remarks that he was glad to see that she was 'giving further support to the sinking literature of [their] country...' Reports that he gained nothing from his spirit-rapping 'but experience in the lower forms of human nature.' Claims that the woman involved, who accomplished 'some very remarkable liftings of the table', 'was a complete humbug', but that the experience does not at all shake his [qualified] belief in spirit-rapping. Asks if Ada is still in Dresden, and how long she is going to stay there. Announces that he is to spend a day or two there at the end of September, and is then going to the Riesengeb[ ], and the on to Prague. Reports that the previous day he paid a very pleasant visit to Dr Rau[ ] in the evening, but claims that his German in not yet up to scratch. Announces that he intends to call upon Dr Rau[ ]'s brother that day. Reports that he ate beer-soup that day, and describes its composition. Finds that he is in Berlin 'just at the wrong time, 'as there is no university and almost no society now.' Complains that the worst feature in Berlin 'is the abundance of ***s and ****s.' Sends his love to Edward and his mother. .
1 doc.

[1860 summer]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Expresses his delight at the news of the birth of her son. Asks her to tell their mother that he shall be grateful to her if she would pay that 'bill of Warwick' for him. Admits that he has been very careless about it. Reports that he saw Mr Dale a week previously, and that the latter preached at a service attended by HS, and 'gave the unhappy congregation a rest from the pretentious and insolent platitudes of [their] regular man...' Claims that Dale believed that the Princess Frederic William would be present at the service for the first time after her confinement. Reports that he gave him news of Ada, whom HS is to see in about two weeks' time. Announces that after going to Dresden he intends to visit Brunswick with Professor H[erring], who is to introduce him to a society of philologues. States that after that he shall go walking in the Harz and on the Rhine. Reports that he is learning German. Recommends '[Tieck's] Novellen' if she wishes for 'an easy and delightful German book' to amuse herself with. Recounts his amusement at the depiction of an Englishman on the Berlin stage. Regrets to hear of AS's renewed illness, especially as he is spending the summer at the Lakes. Claims that he has no impulse to indulge in composition at the present, but recounts a humorous story involving a hero and heroine named Edwin and Angelina, who are in love, but for whom it is impossible to declare their feelings to one another. One day they sit down to play the '[ ] duet of Beethoven together', and the music has such an effect on them that they fall into each other's arms, in which position they are found by [her] father. Claims that the foregoing 'is literally founded on fact', and is reserved in his notebook. Sends his love to his mother 'and believe me ...' .
1 doc.

[1860 summer]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports that Mr Bradley told him that he forwarded HS's watch to him at Wellington College, and suggests that she [Minnie] has pawned it. Asks her to send it to him at Trinity College, where is going on the following Saturday, if it is 'hanging about the College anywhere'. States that he arrived at Rugby by Calais. Claims to like the house at Rugby very much. States that the dining-room can only hold twelve people, but that the drawing room 'is very nice.' Reports that there are 'an extraordinary number of new masters' there, with the result that 'the time-honoured arrangements are undergoing much criticism.' Hopes that Ada got safely to Weston that day 'without having another attack.' Does not think that their mother looked very well. Claims that Mr Ladkin 'behaved like a Beast.' Reports that they have just been consulting Mr Waterfield as to the advisability of going to [Law] with him. States that he bought a print of his favourite correggio 'with the jolly little cherub astride the cloud.' Asks whether Edward has filled up the vacancies satisfactorily, and sends his love to him. .
1 doc.

18 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he going to Paris for the Easter vacation. Remarks that he has not received any letters from her, and presumes that she is busy 'on domestic cases.' Reports that he has not heard anything about Wellington College for a while, and asks how many boys there are there. Mentions that he saw a paragraph in the Times 'about chapel', and hopes that they have not all caught cold in going in and out. Asks after Martin, and wonders if he would remember HS if he saw him. Reports that AS is leaving them now for the continent; thinks that he is wise in going abroad instead of going home before the Tripos list is out, 'because at home he would brood over it so much more.' Claims that he will be surprised if AS 'is anywhere else than 2d.' Asks if she has played any more chess, and states that he has had a game or two since he came up to Cambridge, but finds that it has always interfered with his work. In relation to his Arabic, claims that 'it has languished rather of late', and believes that the only place where he can work well at a subject of that kind is a place like Dresden, where he can isolate himself completely. Nevertheless, he hopes to be pretty well advanced both in Arabic and in Hebrew by the end of the Long Vacation. Remarks that he has heard that 'there are ten volumes of [Les] Miserables', and states that he has hitherto been able to read only the fourth. Remarks that he believes that there are two volumes of Kinglake's history of the Crimea, but that he read the first three weeks previously, and has got no further. Announces that he is going down to Rugby for a day or two at the end of the week. Undertakes to avoid politics, and to discuss only 'the more interesting subject of Matrimony.' Reports that lately he has been reading ' "Ladies' advice to each other" '. Claims that he did so because he hates being taunted as a fellow of a college with igNSnce of the female character. Sends his love to Edward, and remarks that he has not heard 'that he is found out yet.' .
1 doc.

[Mar 1863]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to their lack of correspondence, to Edward, and to 'the latest news from Wellington College'. Announces that he is going to see their mother the following day, and plans to go to Paris at some point. States that if he goes, it will probably be with Graham Dakyns, 'who is desirous of learning French in order to qualify himself for a Government Clerkship.' Claims that the only real method of combining amusement with instruction 'is by learning a foreign language on it's [sic] proper soil.' States that he remembers firmly resolving to write to her on the twentieth of the previous month 'to condole with [her] on coming of age. Relates a humorous incident that occurred to him that day involving his addressing himself to the wrong man in Macmillans. Tells her to write to her in Leamington, and mentions the kinds of things he likes to read about in letters. Reports that he has not been doing anything literary that term, and has been 'lazily absorbing philosophy, history and politics.' Claims that he is 'engaged on a Great Work', but explains that he has invented this explanation as a reply to those who ask him what he is doing. [Incomplete]. .
1 doc.

[end Mar 1862?]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Suggests that he had better pay the visit to which he looks forward, having ascertained from Eve 'that Edward had attained the desire of his laziness, and extolled Easter Holidays from an unwilling Committee...' Asks whether she intends to go to Rugby for the vacation. Informs her that the only time he can go to them is 'the Monday week after Easter to stay till the Saturday: or two or three days at the beginning of Passion week...' Explains that he has asked a friend to stay with them at Rugby for the week after Easter, and that he intends to go down to examine at Harrow at the end of March. Refers to a poem entitled 'Wander, o wander', which he wrote for her, and which now appears in 'McMillan's magazine'. Reports that he told their mother, and that she wrote him 'a reproachful criticism for being so unfeeling towards the young lady!' Asks if she has seen [Nathaniel] Hawthorne's [The] Scarlet Letter, which he judges to be 'a wonderful work. Reports that he is just getting to the end of his hard work, as the Littlego begins the following Monday. Refers to an enclosed poem of Bowen's, [not included], about the Rifle-Corps. Tells her to show it to Donne, if he has not seen it. .
1 doc.

14 [May] [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Remarks on the length of time it has been since they have been in contact 'except casually'. Claims that he has been waiting anxiously for the other Initial paper.' Urges her not to be lazy, and to write [it], and assures her that she will be glad of it afterwards. Mentions that he heard from their mother about the problems with the drainage, and hopes that 'the Prince is all right now: and that Edward has "repaired the semestrial losses". ' Refers to the fact that he has been offered a mastership at Rugby, and had at first accepted it. Announces that he has now refused it. Admits that he has behaved very badly, but claims that it has cost him much mental struggle to break his word. Thought it better 'not to prolong the error of a day into the mistake of a life.' States that he is going abroad to shake the whole thing off his mind. Lists some of the reasons why he had accepted the offer in the first place, including the fact that their mother wanting to go there, his having such an admiration for Dr Temple, his liking Butler so much, and explains that they all made him neglect the fact that he knows that his vocation in life 'to be not teaching, but study.' States that Edward will understand better than she, and asks her to show him the letter. States that he wishes him to know the truth of the matter, since he will probably hear of it from elsewhere. Tells her not to send the next paper to him, bu tot Miss Kitchener in Newmarket, and that if she has anything to say to him, to address any correspondence to Post Restante Paris. Supposes that she has heard from their mother since he left her. States that she 'was quite well then at the Raikes, but she is now at Leeds.' Admits that part of the regret he feels in relation to his conduct is due to the predicted reaction of his mother to it. .
1 doc.

[Aug-Sep 1861]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Wishes that he could drop in on her, 'like William can, and see the [ ] lodge' for himself. Reports that their mother, 'after an ominous silence', sent him 'a laudatory but vague sentence about her.' Claims that he is 'a Galley Slave' that term, with a lecture at nine o'clock on Monday morning. Reports that he saw Eve the other day, 'but he looked more like Cambridge than Wellington College.' Reports that he has nearly got through the Old Testament, and shall have done all but Ezekiel by the time he goes down. Claims that the finest passages of the translation [from Hebrew to English] 'are destroyed by the barbarous fidelity of a ruthless German commentator.' Reports that they have been having 'a violent university contest', and refers to Joe Mayor, who has lost his professorship by ten votes. Claims that the 'Bald-headed People in the university are confounded to find that the young men have elected a blind Radical.' States that he voted against Joe, 'purely on public grounds'. Announces that he is to dine with the Master on Monday, and is sure that he shall meet Miss Grote there. Reports that AS is not well, and is 'plagued with the grandfather of all boils' on his finger. Reports that he saw Henry Bramley that day, and wonders whether he himself 'shall ever have so big a beard.' States that Oriental Studies 'are at a standstill [in Cambridge University] as [their] Hebrew Professor is temporarily insane, and there is no one who can teach Hebrew or Sanscrit', and that besides him they have 'an Arabic Reader who never lectures except to at least two undergraduates...' Asks her if she has seen any literature. Reports that there is 'a poetess who calls herself "Jean Ingelow" who is estimable', and that the 'Reviews have discovered that Woolners Poem 'My Beautful Lady' is a swan', and does not think it 'a goose' himself. Asks how the house is getting on, and asks after Edward. Inquires as to whether the boys say the beer is bitter. .
1 doc.

[Nov 1863]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he has 'just emerged from the mass of business and correspondence that the recommencement of [his] ladies' lectures has entailed', and now wishes to hear from her. Desires to know how she likes the town, 'and the J[ ], and the Germans', and whether she has read much German, and if she is keeping a large journal. States that 'it seems almost like a dream' that he was ever at Wiesbaden, 'and stood at the Roulette tables and saw the view from the Platte.' Reports that he has been in Cambridge ever since he got to England, apart from a Sunday at Rugby, where he found that there is still a crisis. Believes that 'H.H. will come badly out of it', and judges the latter to be 'an odd being', whose acts constitute 'a singular mixture of craft and stupidity.' Relates that, having been forced to reinstate Scott, 'he has done it with explanations and qualifications, which practically make the reinstatement incomplete.' Predicts that the matter will come before the board again. Reports that he wrote all she asked him, and hopes that everything turned out well. Praises the Museum W[ ] at Brussels, which he visited, and refers to 'the worst of seapassages.' Reports that he missed William, but that AS 'seemed to think he was all right.' Relates that he saw no old Catholics as he passed through Cologne, but that he had much conversations about them 'with an intelligent German, who suspended them, as Horace says, on his upturned nose.' Reports that he has just heard from Ada, who says that she has just had 'a most successful tour and wants to know about Italian Hotels.' Expresses his wish to visit Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples, and states that when they have Bess[ ] Steamers on the Mediterraneann he intends to go. Sends greetings to 'Chris and his wife'. .
1 doc.

23 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Expresses the hope that she will write to him in her convalescent state, if she ever got the 'valuable work' which he sent to her. Asks her to tell him her opinion of it if she ever reads it. Reports that he is very busy at present. Asks her to tell Edward that he was quite right about [HS's] teaching history, and admits that he should never have attempted it. States that she would have 'got quite well' had she been with him at Cannes., which, he claims, 'has exactly the sort of climate in which [he] can conceive of people worshipping the sun.' Reports that Tennyson is to come to stay at 'the Lodge' in Cambridge, and he hopes to see him. Claims not to like the poems 'that he has been sputtering al about the press lately...' Reports that their book 'has been very [amiably] reviewed on the whole', and states that the most unintelligent review that he has seen was that in the Times the previous day. Thinks that Conington's review in the Contemporary Review was very good, 'only a little too minute and a little too egoistic.' Announces that they have to elect a new member, and states that everyone feels that it is disgraceful that they have 'no really eminent man to bring forward.' [Jokes] that he cannot help it as he cannot stand, as he is too busy. Informs her that he is 'violently engaged in a scheme for improving female education', and that a Board 'is constituted of Oxford and Cambridge men...to examine governesses and schoolmistresses..' Sends his love to Edward, and states that he heard from Eve 'with amazement of his economical triumph[s]'. .
1 doc.

[7 Feb 1868]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Claims to be ashamed of not having answered her first letter, and remarks that it is such an unusual thing to owe her a letter. States that he had hoped to go and see her that term just before the examination, but explains that a friend of his has just arranged a visit to him, so he must postpone it. Announces that he is to spend the Long Vacation in England, and therefore shall be free to accept invitations then. Declares that had had also wished to go to Rugby at the end of the term. Reports that he is very busy with examination, and if his hayfever gets worse, he 'must not venture...' as his eyes 'may be taken bad: [which] would be a disastrous preliminary to the study of Hebrew...' Remarks that AS seems to have enjoyed himself very much at Rugby, and reports that he heard from their mother that day, but that she seemed 'rather dull.' Announces that he is going up to town the following day, 'and shall try and cast a hurried glance over the Academy', but must be back in Cambridge again on Thursday morning as he has to 'non-[placet] a Grace of the senate [petitioning against Mr Bouveri�s bill].' Explains that the non-[placeters] are in 'a miserable minority', and he doesn't wish to make it even smaller. Reports that he dined with the Kitcheners at Newmarket some days ago, 'and saw E.K.', who 'is not so good in conversation as Miss Kitchener, though her writing is decidedly more powerful.' Regrets to hear that his mother is still 'a sleeping partner of the society.' Asks her whether he ever showed her some things he translated 'in Iphigenia in [ ]', and quotes from it. Declares that he is getting to know a great deal about English history, and is 'wondering whether a book could be written about it at once short, instructive and interesting.' Advises her to read Goldwin Smith's lectures, which are 'so carefully composed that it is a real pleasure to read them independently of anything one learns from them.' Asks her to keep for him a pair of laced boots, which he believes he left at her house. Asks her to send back Ch[ ] some time. .
1 doc.

7[ ] 1862

19/1

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to some enclosed questions [included], some of which he believes were discussed by Bagehot, and some are 'one or two prints [which] he does not allude to.' Suggests that if she does not feel inclined to make any remarks on 'Bagehot', the most stimulating thing she can do is to read Mill's Representative Government with 'Bagehot' in her head, and notice the difference between their views, 'and try to adopt a judicial frame of mind between them.' Also suggest that she read the Times, the Saturday Review, etc., 'to notice where any of the questions [which] Bagehot discusses is brought up, and try and catch the reviewers point of view and estimate the value of his arguments.' Declares that the advantage of politics or jurisprudence as a study 'is that there are so many cases continually turning up in every day talk and contemporary journalism for applying any principles that one may have taken in...' Reports that he has been spending many pleasant days in London and in Dorsetshire since the Monday of two weeks previously. Claims to have so many friends in London that its attraction is growing on him. Reports that he has been exploring [Clifton], and refers to Combe Valley and Leigh woods, and to a poem which mentions the latter. Informs her that his friend Roden Noel has just brought out a second volume of poems, [RN (1868) Beatrice and other poems] which he judges to be very good. Expresses his regret at hearing her account of their aunt Henrietta, who, he believes, 'ought to be violently incited to cultivate her Art.' Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

[1868?]

19/2

List of five questions on a political theme, with references to the English constitution, the House of Lords, the House of Commons, the functions of a constitutional monarchy, and the [probable] effect of Republicanism in Spain, Italy and France.
1 doc.

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he has just returned to his work, and undertakes to do what he can about the ale. Urges her not to make the question [which he sent her] with a previous letter] 'a bore', and suggests that she think over any one of them 'at odd times', and put down any points she thinks she sees. Tells her to send her thoughts to him if she wishes any further light thrown on them. Hopes that she will get something out of Algebra. Reports that she has been corresponding with Miss J[ex] Blake, who wants a medical degree. States that although opinion is advancing very fast in relation to female education, he fears that 'it has not yet got quite as far as that in [Cambridge]', and does not know what they can do for her. Asks if she saw his letter in the Spectator defending their Cambridge scheme for women's examinations. Claims that they [the reformers] 'hold the winning cards', and predicts that if they 'play quietly', they shall 'get the game without any fuss.' Fears that Gh[ ] 'is a frivolous little dog', with no taste for philosophy. Admits that he is intelligent, and hopes that 'some Political Economy and a little Logic may be driven into him.' Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

27 Jan [1869]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he is in the midst of scenery [in Carnarvon], 'which is not first-rate but very pleasing...', and comments on its similarity to the Lakes. Predicts that he shall enjoy himself much, as they have 'much exhilarating good fellowship and good talk at breakfast and in the evening: George Trevelyan, especially, being a well-spring of both.' States that he intends to be there for at least a week, returning to London probably early in September. Claims that he is behind with his work, and thinks that when the holiday is over, he shall have to work hard on till Christmas. Asks her to thank their mother or her letter, which he intends to answer soon. Refers to Annies remark as 'discriminative', and explains that he chose to comment on 'that particular essay of Arnolds was not because it was the most impudent, but because it seemed the most complete and decisive enumeration of his theory of life.' States that he was glad to get AS's address, but does not think he will be sending a letter to him in Switzerland. Is glad to hear of her progress. Encloses 'a little poem' [not included], which he cut out of a magazine, and also 'a German effusion' of his [not included]. Advises her to get hold of R�ckart's 'Selected works' if she ever feels inclined to break new ground in German poetry. [Incomplete] .
1 doc.

[Aug 1867]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Tells her to send the papers to him, as he has not gone abroad. Explains that he is trying to cure his stammering in Cambridge. Expresses his regret at hearing of the 'inroads of illness', and remarks on how unfortunately she is situated 'in having no stock of young men near to impress', and states that at Rugby there are always recruits. Tells her to inform AS that he sits opposite Elliot, '[The ELLIOT]' in hall. Claims that he didn't know anyone there 'until Macfarlane dropped heavensent from the North Riding of Yorkshire. Claims that the people he knows have gone down for the vacation, and that he has forged AS's name to an order on the Union Library and buried himself in the literature of the eighteenth century. States that he is also reading 'Aids to Faith, which seems good, exept Dr Mc Caul's contribution.' States that somebody is to be married, but he cannot remember whom, and refers to the piece of letter that he left out of his last missive. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Declares that he has been very successful in life since [their] 'brief and transitory yet happy...interview terminated at the Royal Academy', despite his pecuniary losses. Is anxious to hear what she thinks of Elaine and another young lady. States that their mother had hinted that she was too much overcome with the heat to enjoy anything, and he hopes that Minnie and Miss Hadley 'strongly impressed on her the advantages that would arise from [Turkish Baths].' Claims that he found the Academy 'once almost as good as a T.B....' Refers to his mother's possible move to Cambridge, which he claims he urged on her as strongly as he felt he ought, but reports that she thinks that he is as yet not settled enough. Wishes that he had 'a kindred spirit still left at Cambridge', but claims that he is very happy there with his books. Reports that he read Macaulay and Mill alternately, and also reads geography. Announces that he is going to study geology during the summer. Asks her to send him the papers that J. [Conington] sent him if AS has left them at Wellington College. Wishes also toknow all her plans, and sends greetings to Edward. .
1 doc.

[1 Jul [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. States that since he first got her letter he has been thinking over the question of 'C.B.'. Suggests that she split the question into two; firstly asks whether there is any prospect offered of C's finding occupation as a land agent after he has gone through the course, and if it is likely that there is a better opening for him in this line thatn in that for which he has already been trained, and secondly asks what abilities are required for even moderate success in the line. Is very glad to hear about William, and mentions that he is thinking of giving him a teapot as a wedding present, unless he hears that he has got teapots from elsewhere. .
1 doc.

5 Jan [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reminds her that she owes him a letter, and asks whether AS would 'under any circumstances go to Rugby', and what he thinks about the matter. Thinks that he is the best man whose name he has heard mentioned [for the post]. Is sorry for Temple's sake about 'this row in Exeter', and states that otherwise he would be rather pleased. States that Pussy's letter seems to him 'as usual, effective for his antagonist: for if the canons of Exeter are really in the dilemma that he presents so vehemently - Acquiescence or Disestablishment, there is not much doubt which [house] they will choose.' .
1 doc.

15 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Offers to send her a book called ' "A Lost Love" ' by Ashford Owen, which, he claims, reminds him of ' "Romances of dull life" etc'. Reports that he hears excellent accounts of her, and hopes that they are all true. Assumes that she is still at Hastings, and mentions that she may possibly be seeing William in a few days. Reports that he saw the latter at Oxford, and that he has given up his work for the term, and is going away, probably to Rugby first 'and then perhaps to Hastings.' Asks her how she finds Hastings. Declares that he knows it well, and looks forward to seeing much more of it in years to come. Says that 'Cowell's life is preserved', as he does not expect that he will leave Hastings again now. Hopes that she is not experiencing any fogs. Declares that they have been having a splendid autumn [in Cambridge]. Reports that he is involved in a project for improving female education, by providing examination for governesses. States that there is an attempt being made to form a joint board, consisting of members of the two universities, for the purpose. Mentions that there are also other projects. Remarks that it appears that there is particular activity in the North of England, where schoolmistresses 'and other enlightened people have associated themselves in several great towns, and out of these associations a general council has been formed with lofty aspirations'. Refers to Matthew Arnold, whose 'unfortunate lecture on culture has been attacked again in the Fortnightly Review by Frederick Harrison'. Advises her that 'the "Guardian Angel" by O.W. Holmes' is worth reading. .
1 doc.

13 Nov [1867]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her to forward the enclosed [not included]. Refers to the external examination of schools by [Cambridge University], which 'Ridding and Co.' wish them to undertake. Wishes to go in strong against this, 'and at the same time for an "Abiturisenten-[ ]" like the German.' Would like to know Edward's opinion on the matter. Adds that there is no news from Rugby. .
1 doc.

17 May [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he had intended to visit her on the evening of the following day, but now cannot. Reports that he has acquired Mr Martin's old rooms, and no longer lives in squalor. Claims to have the feeling that he may live and die there, and thinks that 'a very short while will now decide whether Cambridge is likely to become' a place where he should care to live and die. Believes that 'The Crisis' is coming. Reports that they are in 'much vivacity' in Cambridge, and have a new University Gazette, which comes out every Wednesday, and 'is going to contain all the newest educational notions.' Refers to 'Dinner Arrangements', and their fear for 'a great undergraduate strike', but remarks that he does not know how their '500 men would provide for themselves if they seceded from the Trinity kitchens'. Wishes that Edward would come up and pronounce their new court 'rather picturesque'. Claims that they do no dislike it themselves, 'but competent architectural judges have pronounced it execrable.' Apologises for not having written to her before, and explains that he never managed to write any letters in Switzerland. Refers to the 'sublimity of M�rren in the summer and Mentone in the winter.' Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

13 Nov 1868

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to 'the accompanying papers' [not included]. Claims that he has 'forgotten all about the Persian wars', but that the enclosed questions occur to him as natural. Refers to the 'Ladies' Lectures', which are doing well so far. Predicts that there is sure to be a reaction, and wonders how they shall deal with it. Hears that a similar movement at Edinburgh is also doing well, and remarks 'Mill has come forward like a Woman!' Reports that he has not written anything more in the Pall Mall Gazette, and that he has written a pamphlet on the text 'Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind', in which he discusses the duties of preachers of religion. Claims to be ashamed of not having wrote to thank Edward for his sermon 'in the Bk. of M.', which he thought 'very striking and pathetic.' .
1 doc.

8 Apr [1870]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Informs her that he cannot come to her speeches, because of his hayfever. Announces that he would like to pay her a visit in July, if it is convenient. Explains that he has been very busy of late, and claims that his 'Destiny for the next few years' is being settled, and when it is, he shall write to her. Reports, with regret, that he hears poor accounts of William. Reports that George Ramsay is in Cambridge, and that he says he is going to call on her. Suggests some reading material for her, including the novel Foul Play by Charles Reade, a 'book of travel' entitled Last Winter in the United States by [Zincke], and some blank verse entitled 'Lady Grace' by Miss Smedley. Refers also to a letter written by him, which appeared in the last Spectator, and which was signed ' "a wrangler" '. Advises her to read 'an accompanying book' [not included] dealing with infantile education, which Miss Clough gave him to show his sister. Sends his love to Edward. .
1 doc.

6 Jun [1869]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Hears, through their mother, that she wishes to hear about Rugby. Reports that 'a settled gloom overspreads [them], broken only by occasional anecdotes about B___s', due to problems relating to the headmaster, and to 'Vaccination'. Reports that AS has been quite ill, and that Haslam has had to come and do his work. Claims himself to be '[ready] enough to feel very strongly that Science is in an imperfect state of development...' Reports on problems that have arisen between the sixth form and 'H___r', which has resulted in parents threatening to withdraw their boys, and the Trustees ordering an enquiry. States that the New Board is to be appointed before the end of the following term. Is certain that the crisis is having an adverse effect on the health of AS and his mother. Remarks that the chapel looks 'dreadful'. Asks her to write to him telling him how she is, and reports that he is very well, but also very lazy. Claims that he spends a little of his time in writing on philosophical subjects, and also writes 'letters and scraps in the Cambridge Reporter, besides Secretarial work for the women's lectures'. Has given up the idea [of their mother moving to Cambridge], as he thinks that it would be too much for her. Sends the 'Programme' [not included]. Sends his love to Edward, who he hopes is better, and states that he is delighted to hear about Charley. .
1 doc.

9 Apr [1871]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. States that he has been very busy of late 'about the enclosed' [not included]. Reports that Annie did not do well in Political Economy. Explains that he gave her paperto a friend of his who has examined in the subject, and he decided that she would have been let through if she had been an undergraduate. Asks her tell Edward that he is to breakfast with HS on the following Sunday, and adds that '[a]ll sorts of swells are coming to meet him - Canons, Regius Professors, University Librarians, Public Orators etc....' .
1 doc.

27 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Postcard. Expresses his regret to hear her account of herself. Explains that he is detained [in Cambridge] by matters of business. Intends to visit her on the following Tuesday, if that is convenient for her. .
1 doc.

Jan 1871

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Supposes that she has returned, and hopes that she is much the better for her 'compulsory immorality.' Admits that he should have written before, but explains that he has been hoping to receive the information about AS's paper, and that he had not got Eleanor's address. Reports that he is getting on very slowly with his work, and is feeling very lazy. Dispenses advice to her on getting things done. Reports that at Eton he was introduced to Mrs Oliphant, who was very unlike what he expected, with a Scottish accent, quiet in manner, and 'rather caustic'. Of George Eliot, states that her conversation 'is full of eager sympathy, but there is comparatively little humour in it.' Regrets that there tour could not take place. .
1 doc.

12 Aug [1872]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he would have answered her letter before, but that he has been very busy. Claims that he finds it difficult to realise how long she has been at Wiesbaden. States that he remembers the place distinctly, 'especially the Russian Church'. Wishes that she could give a better account of herself. States that he once thought of writing ' "Advice to Invalids" ', drawn from his own experience, but was prevented mainly by the consideration that 'there are so many varieties of invalids', and that his advice would be useless to all except a very few. Discusses his selfishness, and his efforts to combat it, which included reading the Times. Came to the conclusion that the best method was to attempt to try and think how others were feeling, 'and sometimes to prophecy what they would say.' States that 'Female Education is in a state of movement' at present, as is all other education. Announces that he is considering a scheme for educating the whole country. Claims that he does not go in for modern literature at present, and when he has any spare time he reads Middlemarch over again. Observes that 'things seem to be moving towards Biography now', and states that his own taste is changing in the same direction. Claims that novels weary him 'because they are not true' to human nature. Complains that while biographies are true, 'they are stuffed with facts that one wants to forget.' Remarks that he hears 'the Hare book [Memorials of a quiet life] is very good', and refers also to the second volume of John Forster's The Life of Charles Dickens. Sends his love to all. .
1 doc.

[autumn 1872]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Postcard. Inquires as to whether he had any 'Boot, Shoes or Goloshes' in his bedroom at Wellington College. Quotes a verse, beginning with the line 'The heart, bereaved, of why and how'. Asks her to send any of these items to him, if found, to an address in London. Informs that he writes the postcard in the British Museum Library, because [the staff] will not bring him the books he ordered. .
1 doc.

15 Apr 1873

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Fears that most of his book would give her 'more trouble than it is worth', but recommends Book 1, chapter five, on Free Will, and Book 3, chapter five on Justice, if she is inclined to try any of it. Is sorry to hear about AS's rheumatism. States that he would like to go to Lincoln, but claims that after a round of visits ending with Rugby he shall be engaged for the rest of the vacation between Cambridge and London. A 'certain Scientific Investigation' is to take place in the latter. Refers to Ada's enterprise, and claims that he was the author of '[ ] of the "Good Testimonials" '. Hopes that she will succeed. .
1 doc.

[1874]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her for some of her news, and whether it would be convenient for him to visit her 'about the 23rd of July.' Explains that he is in Margate because of his hay fever, but intends to return 'to the Bosom of Civilization about the middle of the month.' Presumes that 'the solemn and official part of [her] leave-taking is over', and claims that he missed her speeches in the Times. Reports that he has been in London conducting 'the Examination of Women, and indulging in other amusements.' Claims that he is in the process of attempting to write a book. Reports that he subsists chiefly on 'a kind of fish called Margate Dabs...and on Miss Braddon's novels.' Has decided that the latter 'really are more improving to the mind than Mrs Henry Wood's.' Recommends May by Mrs Oliphant, and states that he considers her 'in the very first rank of novelists.' Reports that a friend of his, Mrs Cornish, has just published a novel, which has been quite successful. Asks how she stands the fatigues of the term, and how she likes the new, incoming Party. Claims that he hears nothing from Rugby, 'except that Kitchener meditates a flight'. Asks after Edward, and whether he has yet managed 'to arrange existence at the Chancery.' .
1 doc.

1 Jul [1873]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he is engaged to be married to Eleanor Mildred Balfour, 'the sister of an old pupil and friend of [his]'. Explains that this is the reason for his uncertainties about going to visit her during the winter. Emphasises that the news 'must be kept a profound secret...' Does not feel that he can write to her about Eleanor yet, 'except in general terms that would not convey any idea', but states that his sense of happiness is 'at once intense and secure', and something beyond what he ever dreamt of. Asks her to 'write her just a line to say that [she] will love her'. Describes his fianc�e as 'sweet, simple, serene, helpful, clear-headed, deep-hearted, magnanimous'. Tells her to tell Edward to keep the secret carefully. .
1 doc.

13 Dec [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that certain problems have prevented him from writing to her in relation to his visit, and promises to explain these difficulties when term is over. States that he does not think he shall be able to visit before Christmas, but hopes to go about 18 January, if that is convenient for her. Sends his love to all. .
1 doc.

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Apologises for not having answered her letter before. States that her words were 'infinitely sweet to him' and expresses the desire to see her and talk to her. Gives his permission to divulge 'the secret' [of his impending] marriage to anyone who she would really like to tell it. Regrets that he shall have to put off going to visit her for about a week more, on account of 'the Pursuit of Truth'. Sends his love to all. .
1 doc.

25 Dec [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Expresses his gratitude 'for the enclosed.' Is very glad that she will see someone who will tell her something about NS. States that she is not a person whom strangers easily appreciate, but claims that all who know her agree about her, seeing in her dimly what he sees clearly. Announces that he may go to visit her [his sister] on the 24 [January], 'but at any rate on the 25th.' Remarks on the fact of it being 1876. Expresses his wish for her to see Eleanor. .
1 doc.

1 Jan 1876

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Declares that his secret 'is a secret no longer', and announces that he can go to visit her on 25 or 26 [January] if that is convenient for her. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Note. Announces that his wedding is to take place on Tuesday 4 April [1876], in London. Hopes that she and Edward will be able to come, and asks whether Edward will perform the ceremony. Adds that life 'is very wonderful'. .
1 doc.

1876

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. [Referring to his honeymoon] states that the time has passed wonderfully, and reports that they have had 'several days of most appropriate weather, cloudless and balmiest air', and claims that Paris has looked as lovely as he always imagine it. Reports that Eleanor instructs him in the art of domestic decoration, and in return he is 'gradually preparing her to read the Methods [of Ethics].' Refers to the hotel in which they are staying. Reports that friends have found them out, 'but not to any disagreeable extent', and that Eleanor has persuaded him to be photographed. Hopes that everything went off 'as well as could be expected on Tuesday, and that nobody was much bored, and that Edward's work was not seriously interfered with.' States that having Edward to perform the [marriage] service made even more difference than he expected. Asks her to tell him about Andrew C[larke] and their mother, and whether anything came of Minnie's letter. Reports that their mother has written to him 'in good spirits'. Announces that they intend to return to England on Tuesday 25 April, 'probably to C[arlton] Gardens for a few days', and that he has to go up to Cambridge on Friday 28 April on business. States that they 'shall not be generally supposed to be in Cambridge till Monday May 1st.' Refers to 'the Fortnight of Callers which will supervene after May 1st', after which 'the long years of serious work in Cambridge' spread out before him. Claims to feel 'equal to anything in the way of services to mankind now.' Reports that there is an article in the Quarterly Review by John [Mozley] on ethics in relation to HS's book. Claims not to much like it as a criticism, but that it contains 'an interesting and well-written exposition of his own views.' .
1 doc.

15 Apr 1876

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to the chocolate eggs, which his wife sent to Minnie's children for Easter. Announces that they go to Cambridge the following morning at nine o'clock. States that they have already made acquaintance with their temporary house and like it. Wishes that work on it 'did not begin quite so soon'. Reports that he saw Andrew Clarke 'and promised to save him the trouble of writing to [her].' Informs her that Clarke believes that their mother 'is suffering from a very mild form of the effect of gout on the brain'. Sends on NS' love. .
1 doc.

[1876]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Apologises for having misunderstood, and explains that it was 'William's mention of the "armchairs" ' that misled him. States that he is very glad to see the letters, which he sends back [not included]. Announces that he has informed William that he [and NS] 'will come from Feb[ruary] 10th to 12th...to meet Edward'. In relation to the furniture, mentions that 'W[illiam] still proposes "lots" ', but he himself thinks that they can arrange about the things among themselves, and states that it is the memorial furniture that interests them most. .
1 doc.

[1879]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he is to stay at least a day in Cambridge after his stay in London, and mentions the '26th' as a date [for his visit to her]. Refers to what he said about Mrs Wickham's note about his wife, whose defects, he claims, 'are purely negative'. States that he 'cannot even imagine her doing anything wrong.' Remarks that 'her family are rather intimate with the Gladstones', and that 'the house in Carlton Gardens is let to THE PEOPLE'S WILLIAM [Gladstone] for the months of Feb[ruary] and March.'.
1 doc.

[1876]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he had been expecting to hear her 'final views about the Greek', and informs her that he asked Mrs Peile to send her a circular. Still thinks that she would find it a mistake to learn Greek regularly, but offers his assistance nonetheless. Reports that their mother seems 'pretty well and in pretty good spirits', and that 'her absorbing interest is in Nevil, who has just left her.' Reports that they have seen Isobel, 'who seems to be going on well', and states that William 'is certainly not in a satisfactory state' according to their mother. Remarks that it is not surprising that he has no pupils yet, and thinks that he does not feel well enough to take them. Discusses his thoughts on settling 'the exact amount of one's conscious need of dogmatic religion'. Claims that 'the consciousness of the comparatively low moral level on which [his] own nature seems to keep [him]' has often driven him to the verge of trying to alter his intellectual convictions, but that he has been prevented by the fear of moral deterioration. States that this dilemma 'belongs to some time ago', and that life has been made very smooth to him of late. Sends on his mother's love, and hopes that her children are all well again. Also sends NS' love, and states that the latter is looking forward to seeing Minnie sometime in the following vacation. Sends their love to Edward, and looks forward to having them both in Cambridge in the following term. .
1 doc.

[1873?]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Regrets that they cannot come on the following day, as 'the Kensington "Colony" is coming to dine' with them. Hopes to come 'on Wednesday at 5', if that is convenient. .
1 doc.

[1879]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he [and NS] are not going to Rome as they had planned, partly due to his academic work, and partly due to the fact that he has 'been drawn more and more into some [local] quasi-philanthropic work at Cambridge' which involves the reconstructing of the old ' "Mendicity" ' Society on the principles of the London Charity Organisation Society, and which requires his presence there at Christmas time. Discusses Rayleigh's possible transfer to Cambridge, and refers to all the mathematical professors having signed a memorial to urge him to come and succeed Maxwell as Professor of Experimental Physics. Remarks that it is unusual to give up leisure and the comforts of a country house 'unless one is quite sure that one's duty to society requires it.' Asks her for her opinion of Ada, and asks her to send him Ada's address. States that they were 'very much delighted to hear of it' and that Eve has told them 'good things of him.' Reports that they have seen AS, but not William, who is not very well. Sends his and NS' love to Edward and the children, and asks how much came from the 'Personal Appeal' after all. .
1 doc.

29 Nov [1879]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to their recent conversation, and clarifies his and NS' plans in relation to holidays, and their possible visit to her. Explains that they intend to go to the Alps for the end of June and the beginning of July if NS finds 'that she can miss the Higher Level Examination without neglect of duty. Mentions that that destination 'is the only complete cure for hayfever', and adds that they would be the guests of the Symondses, 'who are in permanent exile at Davos.' States that if NS cannot miss the examination, they will go to visit Minnie and Edward from 13 to 18 June, and that they shall be able to make up their minds early in May, after Miss Gladstone has returned. Also discusses the possibility of 'Nelly' [Benson] being sent to Newnham College, and HS's views in relation to such a move. .
1 doc.

[1880 or 81]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Declares that he was 'thinking rather sadly' of his birthday, when her letter came and cheered him up. Refers to their conversation in London, and claims that he does not want to bring her to his position, to which he believes himself to be suited, despite its 'grave defects and disadvantages'. States that he cannot take the responsibility of drawing anyone else to it, nor to placing obstacles in their way. Claims to have 'some results of thought on theological and ethical questions which...may be profitable to others who are led on other ways in the wanderings of Spirits'. Offers to answer any questions that she may have on the matter. Confirms that he [and NS] are leaving on Tuesday for Davos, and states that they shall be in Switzerland for a month, and then at Newnham until about 10 September. After that they propose to visit Minnie and Edward, and asks her to tell him when would not suit. Reports that NS is away for two nights in London. Refers to 'Nellie', and apologises for having troubled Minnie in relation to her situation. Explains that he wishes to do all he can to prevent the establishment of a denominational College at Newnham. Hopes that Nellie will like Oxford. Declares that he was glad when AS's scholarship was settled. Tells her that she will have to come and see him in Cambridge next May Term. Sends his love to all, and asks if they can find out anything for her in the Alps. .
1 doc.

[10 Jun 1881]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports that Frank Balfour 'has been for some days in severe fever', and typhoid has been suspected. Claims that some improvement has latterly taken place, and that the pain has somewhat subsided. Refers to the compilation of complaints at Crescent Villa, which they heard about just before Balfour's illness. Hopes that they are all well. Reports that he has seen AS, and that the same afternooon he came Miss E[llie] Hopkins also called, and absorbed HS's conversation. Asks her to ask Edward to vote for A.V. Di[ ] if he should be in the Athenaeum Club between 4 and 6 pm on 20 February. Reports that all is well in Newnham, and that Miss Gladstone is going to be the next Vice President. Explains that it is not yet formally settled, and asks her not to talk of it. .
1 doc.

8 Feb [1881]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks whether AS is coming up to Cambridge for the Trinity Scholarship Exam, and states that he [and NS] shall be delighted to take him in in Newnham College. Announces that they shall be staying up until the end of Easter week 'and can offer him a selection among about 35 eligible apartments.' Reports that the University of Glasgow is to make him an L.L.D. 'about April 29th', and that Trinity College has just decided to make him an HoNSry Fellow. Reports that he and NS are well; that the North Hall 'is apparently prosperous'; that NS 'is rather overworked but cheerful'; and that he is 'putting through the press a book on the Theory of Political Economy.' Refers to 'the triumph of the 24th of February', and claims that he 'shall never forget the astonishment with which [he] realised that the Senate House was full of about 400 M.A.s and that...they were all going to vote on the right side.' States that he does not feel elated by the proceedings, as he claims 'a natural aversion to responsibility'. Reports that AS and Charlotte have both been over that term, but separately, the latter having come with Margaret Arnold, 'who has been performing at a concert with Joachim.' Mentions that 'her young man wants a post as scientific-mathematical master in some school', and tells her to suggest him if she hears of such a post. States that all was well at Oxford when they last heard news from there; that William is fairly well, and that the alarm about Nevil is over. Asks for news from Minnie, including 'the last particular of Church work. Sends his love to all Adds that Brown's poems ' "Fo'c's'leYarns" ' are out. Suggests that she buys them, or persuades her friends to buy them. .
1 doc.

[26 Mar 1881]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to 'a "Biograph" of December', which NS sends to her. Explains that it is an 'Organ of opinion', which 'contains the Lives of really eminent men - not the people whose names appear in the newspapers, but those who Mould the Age.' Emphasises that it should not be shown to anyone. Reports that Miss M[oberly] 'has just come out practically first in the Moral Sciences Tripos', but that her name does not appear publicly, as she has only been examined informally. Recounts that '[t]he joke is that she and another Newnham student are the only candidates whose work has come up to first-class standard!' Reports that they have paid off all the debt on Newnham, and that it is now a business paying its way, 'owning a capital of two houses which when they are full yield a fair endowment fund, for exhibitions, future buildings etc.' Claims to be '[chaffed] in Hall' because his nephew is said to have brought forward, in the King's debating society, a motion to the effect that the higher education of women is undesirable. He has been informed that the motion was carried by eleven votes to ten. Sends NS' love, and announces that they are going to Scotland 'in a week or so for most of the holidays.' .
1 doc.

9 Dec 1881

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Writes from London, where he is 'engaged in assisting in a collection of Ghost stories and similar matters...' Has been given Edward's name as the secondary authority for a story, which he encloses [not included]. Wishes her to find out whether that version is what was told to Edward, and also the name and address of Edward's informant. Asks after her family. Supposes that Edward is in London from time to time, and asks her to tell him that HS shall be there 'off and on during July.' States that NS is to be at Newnham College for the Long Vacation, and that Miss Gladstone is to 'become responsible' [for the college] in October. Asks her where and when she intends to go on holiday. Announces that he [and NS] are going to have two or three weeks' holidays in September, which they intend to spend partly in Yorkshire, and partly, possibly, in Ireland, visiting the Chief Secretary. States that he has never been 'to that unhappy country, and [is] curious to see how it feels when one is there!' Hopes that his book will be out in October. Announces that he does not give up his Praelectorship until Christmas, and therefore shall be in Cambridge the following term, but not at his house. They hope to spend a spring in Italy, and come back to their home in April for the May term. Sends his and NS' love to all the family. .
1 doc.

1 Jul 1882

HS [and NS]to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Thanks her for her enclosures. Asks who Mrs F[ ] was, and whether he knows her personally, as he wishes to write to her 'in a proper tone'. Also thanks her for her and Edward's congratulations, and admits that he is very happy to have a stable position, and explains that his work involves a great deal of organisation. Claims to feel that he has got too old for 'the pleasure' of that degree of professional success. States that he and NS are very glad that there is no reason to be alarmed about Edward. Regrets that 'he has not been able to sleep as much as Mr Gladstone', who, he heard, used to sleep for nine or ten hours when he was confined to bed as a result of an accident. Asks if she ever heard from Mrs Offley [Carey] about her story, and if not, asks her if she could 'mildly stir her up to write what she promised'. NS adds that HS asked her to explain 'the situation about the "[Birch]" '. States that the [Gurneys] 'have offered themselves for the Friday in that week over the Sunday', and that if Minnie did not think Tuesday would be her [especial] day, HS would ask AS's friend for that night, 'leaving Wednesday and Thursday free.' Suggest that if it is only herself and [Maggie] that are coming, there is nothing to prevent them from being there 'with either or both sets of people'. [Incomplete] .
1 doc.

5 Nov 1883

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that Mrs Offley [Carey] has forgotten to send him a [ghost] story, which she had undertaken to do, and asks Minnie to remind her. To facilitate matters, he sends the story in the form in which it has already been communicated to them [not included], and refers to certain elements for which he desires evidence. Reports that he and NS have been visiting relations in Yorkshire, and that they received many enquiries in relation to Minnie. Reports that they were all very cordial. They stayed chiefly at the Raikes, and also with the Stephen Marshalls, and went over to Ryddlesden to dine. Remarks that 'Aunt Sidgwick' was 'much changed [since /71!] but wonderfully well...for her age.' Hopes that Minnie is enjoying her 'Park'. Sends his and NS' love to all, and asks her to remind AS that he thought he could get some stories for them from the Dean of Windsor. Adds that his uncle informed him of the earliest forms of the name Sidgwick - from 1379. Remarks on the presence of an 'l', as in 'Syggleiswyk', and 'Seglewyk', and states that a version from two centuries later is the one he is thinking of adopting: 'Seeggeswyke'. .
1 doc.

26 Sep 1883

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports that he went up to London on the previous Saturday to lecture on Psychical Research 'to a "College for men and Women" ', and called to see her on Sunday, but found that they had gone to Ramsgate. Claims to be delighted by her haunted house story, and wishes to begin making further inquiries. Enquires if she can find out for them where Mrs Tilghmans H[ ] is to be found in London. Asks her if she thinks his colleague Frank Podmore might call and ask her questions, or if she would undertake the task herself. Lays out the main questions that he would like to have answered; wishes to know if the sisters Anna and Henrietta will write an account of their experiences, if the servants could be persuaded to testify, 'expecially Hannah Lilley and Minnie Forbes, and if it would be found out from Miss Hastings the names of the other persons who have lived in the house. Thinks that they certainly ought to take the house, if it is to be taken year by year. Remarks that a seven year lease 'would be rather a high price to pay for apparitions that may never come.' Encloses one of their slips 'of "Phantasms of the Living" '[not included], which Minnie may be able to help them in. Asks her if she could find out whether ' "Rev.d James Walker" ' is alive, and if not whether he has left relations 'who know anything of the story.' Announces that they shall probably be up in London again for the General Meeting of the Society of Psychical Research on Friday 28 March, and hopes to see her. NS sends her love and hopes that 'nothing worse than transient colds' drove [them] to Ramsgate. Trust that Edward 'bears the sh[ ] of work prosperously'. .
1 doc.

10 Mar 1882

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her to forward the enclosed [not included] to Hugh. States that the story he sends 'is certainly one worth keeping, 'if the boys are sure of the detail[s] of the coincidence.' Reports that their evidence 'is growing very bulky: but the quality is...very various.' Hopes that they are all well, and states that they had a good account of them on Tuesday from Miss Temple. Reports that AS and Charlotte were in Cambridge on Sunday 'in a prosperous condition', and that William and Isobel are expected 'in a few hours'. Hears that William is well and is in good spirits. Reports that he [HS] went on a Psychical Research tour in the west a fortnight previously, 'and squeezed out a day at Clifton and walked about [Durdham] Down with Graham Dakyns.' .
1 doc.

4 Oct 188[6]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he did not answer her letter about Chris because he wanted to find out more than he then knew about the demand for modern language teaching. Reports that he has now ascertained that the two teachers whom they have appointed to teach the medieval language[s] [Romance and old Teutonic] 'will probably try to get pupils in modern languages.' Believes that if they do 'the supply of teaching will at least equal the demand, so that there will be no opening at all.' Thinks that in any case it would be a very risky thing for Chris to do. Does not believe that the number of men who will take up modern languages will be great. States that there is a German and a French teacher officially employed at Newnham, besides the two medieval teachers. Thinks that Chris would probably pick up a few pupils, but believes it to be a risky enterprise. Wishes to talk the matter over with her. Mentions that AS says that she [and her family] may be all to coming [to Cambridge] for a Sunday in November. Asks if she could come for 22 November, when he expects that he and NS should be 'quite alone'. Adds that NS sends her love and begs her to some. Asks her to come on 29 if 22 November does not suit. States that the Lord Justice Bowen and possibly Rayleigh will be with them then. .
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28 Oct 1886

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Hopes that she has received his present. Encloses an address he gave at Aberdeen [not included], and asks her to send it back to him as he is short of spare copies. Offers to give her a copy later when the Annual Report of the British Association comes to be printed. He and NS hope that her parties 'are going off well, and that Maggie's convalescence is complete.' Reports that NS has undertaken to write the article on Spiritualism for the Encyclopaedia Britannica, and that the Spiritualists are 'disgusted' as they regard her as having 'a mind hopelessly biased against Spiritualism'. .
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14 Oct 188[5]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Encloses his journal for October [not included], and asks her to send it on without delay, as it is late. In relation to Disestablishment, puts forward the opinion that 'it is the right thing whenever the Church is clearly the church of the minority', and announces that, as he is not among the minority, he intends to vote for it 'when that time comes.' States, however, that he does not want the question raised prematurely. Believes that all the Liberal leaders think the same, and observes that even [Joseph] Chamberlain does not wish to raise the matter now. Believes that the latter has done much harm to the Liberal party by his '[ ] commendations of the "Radical Programme"; as he has given the Tories an excuse for [ ] the [ ] of the "Church in danger" '. Believes that the question seems likely to break up the Liberal Party in Scotland. Declares that he is glad to hear good news of Maggie and Hugh. Adds that, without agreeing generally with what Edward has been saying, he thought much of it very good. .
1 doc.

1 nov

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Presumes that she is travelling about, and that his letter will be somewhat delayed in coming to Davos. States that he has explained this to Symonds, and asks her to sent it on as soon as she can. He and NS hope that she had a good time at Bamborough, 'and that every body is revived and refreshed.' Asks if she has read Dorothy Forster - an historical novel by Besant about the rising of 1715. Claims that it is 'fairly good'. Announces that he is going to spend Sunday with Mrs Arnold at Lowestoffe. .
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1 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to an enclosed diary [not included]. Explains that some days previously he had promised a friend of his that he would let Edward know 'that there was a strong feeling in Cambridge that Luard's services to the study of medi�val history deserved recognition by some such post as the Deanery of Lincoln!' Explains that his friend had first wanted him to convey this to Gladstone, but that he had told him that it was out of the question. Asks her to explain to Edward that he now regrets having promised to pass on the information to him, and how the whole matter came about. .
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30 Apr 1888

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks if she could take him in for a night, as he is having his portrait painted on the following Thursday and Friday. States that he likes his artist, and claims to find the process of being portraited 'much more reposeful and agreeable' than he had imagined. .
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3 May 1889

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Informs her that he finds that he and NS are unable to come to tea the following day, as it is the only time NS can see her brother Gerald and his wife, as they are going to Paris on the following Thursday. Adds that they may have to go to Cambridge on Friday for Kennedy's funeral. States that lunch-time on Thursday or any time on Saturday afternoon would suit them. Reports that they have just come from a Women's Suffrage meeting, at which NS was speaking. Remarks that the question 'seems to be in a very thorny condition'. .
1 doc.

[1889]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports that he and NS have come to London for some days, and that various meetings will occupy them both until the following Thursday. Suggests that they might go to lunch [with Minnie and family] on the following day, 'or Thursday or to tea on Wednesday, or...any time after Thursday.' Announces that the following week he shall be busy - having his portrait painted, and finishing his book. Claims to be much interested in a general way in Edward's Trial, but admits that he hasn't yet had time to read the arguments. .
1 doc.

[1889]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Declares that if the invitation to the Stationers had come at any other time of the vacation than 'this hayfever season', he would have been happy to accompany Edward to it, but explains that he has come to Brighton to cure his affliction 'and to do hypnotic experiments at the same time', and therefore feels that he ought to stay there. Refers to the fact that she has decided on a matter regarding Hugh. State that they are 'waiting anxiously at Cambridge for a decision as to a proposed change in the age of candidates for the [I].C.S. Sends NS' love. Adds that he went to see her on Wednesday 'at the Solemn moment of having had [his] portrait finished', but found that she had gone to [Windsor]. .
1 doc.

[1889]

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her to send him his nightshirt, which he left at Lambeth. Declares that he is very impressed with Edward's judgment, and remarks that 'the "Standard" hints that Stubbs dissents.' Asks if it is 'one of the things that may be known whether this is true or not, or how far'. Reports that the Central News Agency telegraphed that the Archbishop had decided for the Bishop of Lincoln's [contention], and claims that they believed it until the evening papers came. .
1 doc.

13 May 1889

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to her invitation to himself and NS to visit her from Monday to Thursday of the following week, and to the fact that NS cannot go because of the Society of Psychical Research experiments at Brighton. Asks if she would like him to come by himself for two nights. Explains that he could not come for more, as he managed to disengage himself from attendance at the Brighton experiments in order to work on his book, but that he shall be reading at the [British] Museum library, and could come from Tuesday evening to Thursday morning without undue pressure on his conscience. .
1 doc.

2 Jan 1890

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Gives reasons for his failure to write up and send his diary, including his efforts to finish his book, and a bad cold. Undertakes to begin it once his book has been brought out. Asks if she has seen William, and reports that he has received at least one letter and a postcard from him. Remarks that he 'seems to be thinking again of some employment beyond his examining.' Reports that Hugh left them on Thursday, 'apparently in complete convalescence.' Refers to the latter's doctor, whose name was Douty. Asks whether she thinks if Edward would be disposed to join the society mentioned in the enclosed note [not included]. Explains that the writer 'is a [country] solicitor, who is in his leisure hours an original and active-minded archaeologist.' .
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2 Feb 1891

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Claims to be 'filled with admiration and gratitude', and that she has done both the things that he had wanted her to do. Reports that he and NS are happy, but that the latter is rather overworked with the Society for Psychical Research experiments, in which he claims that he 'cannot effectively help' due to his work on his book. States that they have had another partial disappointment in the investigation of psychical phenomena, but that on the whole their psychical affairs 'are going on prosperously'. Refers to the recent exposing of one of the professional impostors. .
1 doc.

28 Feb 1891

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he and NS have to begin their journey to England the following day, as they have engagements all the following week. Regrets that there is no chance of meeting up with Minnie. Is sorry to hear about Hugh's health. Reports that NS wrote to Isobel from Italy, giving their favourable view of William's condition; thinks that any advice as to how to deal with the situation 'would be dangerous' as it might make Isobel feel that they had gone over to William's side. Reports that he has had another letter from William, 'who has achieved the ascent of the "Grand Paradis" in which he has failed twice before in previous years.' Hopes that things 'will go all right when he gets home', but fears that if there is a spell of bad weather immediately after his arrival in England, they may go badly. .
1 doc.

4 Sep 1891

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. States that hehas just received her note. Reports that they found William at Zermatt when they returned from an expedition the previous afternoon, and have been with him al day, 'walking up to and down from the Gower Goat' Reports that William seems to them 'in a very satisfactory condition'. Refers to [Rhoades], who has been with the latter for a fortnight, and states that that both he and William consider it to have been 'a most successful expedition'. Reports that William had intended to stay in the region and tackle some of the high passes there, but a decree of the Federal Government prohibiting the employment of French guides has forced him to change his plans, and he has decided to accompany HS out of Switzerland into Italy to do the '[Tour] of Monte Rosa', and then go back to Chamonix. Informs her that he gave William her address. Hopes that she will have a good time. Reports that they are at present 'depressed by corporal ailments of various kinds', but they are otherwise cheerful. .
1 doc.

18 Aug 1891

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Explains that he had to put off his [journey] for various reasons. Asks her if she would take him in on Wednesday night. States that he has to leave London on Thursday morning. Undertakes to explain when he sees her. Claims that he shall be 'going about on the loose without NS!' Asks her to telegraph. .
1 doc.

14 Mar 1892

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to the enclosed letter [not included] as 'a very poor result of a tour among the leading Capitals of Europe!' Claims that he has not yet got back the habit of writing when ideas come to him, and that keeping a journal is an affair of habit. Reports that he [and NS] are hard at work, and that the latter was formally made Principal [of Newnham College] the previous Saturday, and now goes there regularly after lunch, and is going to dine there about twice a week. Reports that the 'census of hallucinations is getting up to 16,000', and hopes that she won't overwork. States that the preparation for their International Congress of Experimental Psychology goes on until the end of July. Hopes that they are all well, 'and that Edward was pleased with the manner in which the House of Commons cl[ ] the malcontents on the Clergy Discipline Bill'. .
1 doc.

3 May 1892

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Announces that he is coming to her the following day, and tells her to let him know if this is inconvenient. Reports that NS is quite well again, but not quite strong. .
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29 May 1893

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Refers to the fact that she is off to Florence in early April. Asks her to send him a postcard to let him know whether he shall find her at home on the following Monday, or whether he had better come on Tuesday. Announces that he and NS [and AS] are going to be in London for two or three days, and reports that they are not quite well again after a bout of influenza. They think that they have had enough of sea air, and that AS will give her the details. Claims tha the has not quite got over 'a certain depression of energy and spirits', which were a result of his illness, but 'can detect no flaw' in his organic condition. Reports that he has been reading much light literature, but none that has left much impression on him, apart from the last story in George Meredith's book of three stories. .
1 doc.

29 Mar 1895

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports the arrival of McKendrick's letter, which he encloses, along with the chapter he asked HS to read [not included]. Remarks that it confirms his general view about the argument, but does not think much of McKendrick's own solution, which is 'neither orthodox nor historical.' Asks her to send on the letter to Maggie, of whom he hopes that Minnie has a good account. Undertakes to send her a 'Memorial', in relation to their degrees question, and hopes that she will sign it. .
1 doc.

21 Jan 1896

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Reports that 'AS [Christopher]' told him before Easter that he would prefer to have his [HS's] later reminiscences, in spite of the difficulties that they had discussed. States that he wrote them and sent them to him about ten days previously, and that the first part of them has arrived in proof that morning. Wishes her to tell him if there is anything that he has said which she does not quite like, and suggests that it might be possible to remove such parts altogether, and that it would certainly be possible to modify the work. Believes that the first part is 'disagreeably egotistical', but thought it necessary to convey 'both the point of view from which, and the conditions under which, the ideas [he wishes] to convey about Edward were formed'. States that he has told AS that he is quite free to modify the work as he sees fit, but reiterates that he would like to have Minnie's view before he sends the proofs back. Asks if she [and Edward] will come to visit him and NS the following summer. States that they shall be in Cambridge almost all the time until the end of August, and could take them in any time during term 'except Sundays and any time after term is over.' Refers to 'the question of the House', about which Minnie is still undecided, and to her aspirations which '[ ] Thomas S[ ] does not satisfy.' Explains that the news was obtained from Edward Sidgwick. Sends NS' love. .
1 doc.

11 May 1898

Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson. Asks her to sign the enclosed Memorial [not included]. States that they would like to have her and Edward's signatures. Asks her to send it straight to Miss M. Kennedy in Cambridge. .
1 doc.

23 Jan 1896

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Explains that he did not expect him to have come to see him the previous Saturday. Expresses his shock at the death of Martin. Wishes that in his last years 'he could have been happier in respect of the course of college matters', and wishes that he himself had done more to prevent the estrangement that had grown up between them, on account of their political differences. Refers to the kindness with which he had been treated by Martin. Sends his love to Minnie. Refers to the fact that their classical Tripos refom 'is quashed'. .
1 doc.

31 May [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Reports that he is in 'a rustic inn in the Harz', and has been walking that day. Relates some of his experiences at 'a giant meeting of German "Philologues, Schoolmasters and Orientalists" ', which he attended in Brunswick with Professor Herrig. Reports having seen 'two or three celebrated men', including Ewald and [D�derlein]. Remarks on the 'universally good speaking in the discussions'. Claims, however, that the essays delivered were not very good, but that he heard 'a really splendid translation of Oedipus Tyrannus excellently read by the translator.' Remarks that German is a better language for translating Greek than English. Claims to have enjoyed his stay in Berlin very much. Passes on greetings from Professor Herrig , the Director and Professor Ranke to Benson, and remarks on the kindness shown to him by Herrig. Refers to a portrait of the Director in the 'Berlin Exhibition of pictures'. Relates that he was present at three of four ' "Stunden" ' in the latter's school, and remarks that politics and coffee at [Stehely's]' 'formed a very pleasant item in the order of the day.' Claims to be very slow in learning to speak German. Announces that he is now proceeding to the Rhine, where he intends to spend about ten days, after which he plans to return to England. Hopes to spend a night with Benson on his way to Cambridge to recount his experiences, 'and to see the young princes [his nephews].' Hopes that all is going on well. Presumes that Benson has begun work again, and hopes to hear a good account of the prospective chapel also. Concludes the letter at G�ttingen, where he has been to pay a visit to Professor Benfey. The latter, he believes, has 'a European reputation in the Semitic languages.' Refers to the many erroneous notions current in England about the German universities of G�ttingen, which he declares to be a dull town. Asks him to forward 'the enclosed' [not included]. .
1 doc.

2 Oct [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Blames his failure to write to her sooner on his 'vexed and unsatisfied feelings...about Ada's M.S.S.'. Does not think that the two stories she translated are particularly interesting, and judges their translation to be no better than average. Does not know what to do on account of being informed by 'McMillan' that 'the translation from the German, even of first rate quality is enormously at a discount...', and has decided to do nothing until he has discussed the matter with Benson. Undertakes to attempt to find 'a more cheerful bookseller than Macmillan' if Benson finds HS's opinion of the stories 'exaggeratedly unfavorable'. Refers to his mother having given up all hopes of all the family coinciding at Christmas, as Edward and Minnie Benson plan to go to the seaside. Is glad that his mother proposed going to Bristol; both he and AS were eager to go there again. Is anxious to go to Wellington College to see his sister and Benson, and asks the latter to tell him when they leave. Explains that he cannot get away 'before the 17th' because William is coming to Cambridge for a few days at the end of term. Announces that, according to his plan, they are all to be together at Rugby for a few days. Explains that he is very busy with 'plans and pupils, friends and fellowship dinners...' Asks him to tell Minnie to write, and to give her his love. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Refers to his failure to send any correspondence sooner, and to his attitude to sending letters from abroad. Claims that at Dresden he did not find that the time 'made itself for letter-writing'. Speaks of his progress in reading, writing and speaking German. Refers to Benson's holiday [in France], and to the beauty of the 'aiguilles and glaciers' of the vale of Chamounix. Remarks that Minnie must have enjoyed it. Reports that [walked for] eleven hours along the Allee Blanche of Mont Blanc on his way to Courmayeur. In relation to his stay in Dresden, claims that the liked Herr Schier very much, but disagreed with his politics. Speaks well of Professor and Mrs Hughes, but claims that he did not get on very well with anybody else. States that Mrs and Mrs Henry Hughes somehow did not suit him, and that the other English there kept him back in his German as they always spoke in English. Reports that Dale, with whom he used to spend the Sundays, was very kind, and that he asked after Benson and Minnie. Refers to [ ] having eight children, 'and no money to speak of!' Hopes that Benson 'found the boys as good as ever and the heather well out', and asks him to give his love to Minnie. Sends a poem to the latter [not included]. .
1 doc.

[12 Aug 1859]

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Writes in relation to the predicament of the Vicar of St Luke's [Parish] in Chesterton, who is in the process of trying to persuade the Ecclesiastical Commissioners to give a Population Grant to his district parish. Its members, comprising mainly of College servants and small tradesmen, have increased, resulting in the need for financial assistance. States that the case is briefly stated in the enclosed paper [not included], and more fully in a pamphlet that he himself has read. Believes that the Commisioners could relax the rule that prevents them from giving a grant, and that, in doing so, no dangerous precedent would be set; rather a 'substantial justice' would be done. Asks him to tell Minnie that he has news of Psychical Research to impart to her when they meet, and that NS has been having her portrait painted by an artist named St[ ], 'who is believed to be "on the rise" '. .
1 doc.

9 Feb 1889

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Congratulates him on his chancellorship, admitting, however, that he has no idea what a chancellor is. Supposes that his new position will give him the leisure 'to construct the Church of the Future, and reconstruct that of the past.' Adds that he has just met 'a quasi-ecclesiastical layman', who confused him in relation to the characteristic functions of 'Chancellor' as distinct from 'Canon'. .
1 doc.

17 Dec [ ]

Henry Sidgwick to Edward White Benson. Reports that Young has asked his advice about standing for Benson's 'place', and that the has advised him to stand, but has told him htat he did not think him the ideal man. Refers to him as a 'safe' man. Adds that Young has asked him for a testimonial, but before writing HS would like to know if there is any candidate whom Benson would prefer to Young. Refers to the fact that when HS and Benson were last together, the latter mentioned Abbott. Asks him if he would mind him saying that he [Abbott] would have Benson's support. Asks him to tell Minnie that he is 'always writing to her.' .
1 doc.

9 Mar [ ]

91/1

MS entitled 'Iphigenia', beginning with the lines: 'So comest thou Fulfilment, fairest daughter of the Great Father, down to me at length;'.
1 doc.

n.d.

91/2

Henry Sidgwick to [ ]. Hopes that his addressee liked the song he gave him/her [included], and states that the plot of the poem wherein it is to come 'was harrowing in the extreme'. Relates some of the plot, involving the characters Damon, Pythias, and a heroine, with whom they both fall in love. Refers also to the structure of the work, which 'concludes with a mild ode.' [Incomplete]. .
1 doc.

n.d.

91/3

Henry Sidgwick to [Edward White Benson]. Undertakes to write on 'the other matter...as soon as the visit is over', and states that they both entirely agree with the addressee's view of 'the present situation.' Is glad to hear that Hugh is quite recovered. Adds that the Conservatives 'have just decided, by 50 to 16, to select Jebb for vacant seat'. Incomplete. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to Jermyn John Cowell. Explains the delay in answering his letter, claiming that he had mislaid it, and had forgotten where Cowell would be. Claims that he could only remember that he would be at F[lorence] 'about the beginning of May.' Apologises for his carelessness, and claims that he was further delayed in writing by his having to research some lectures that he had to give on the Acts of the Apostles. Regrets that they could not have met up at Florence. Reports that Thompson's failure in the Tripos took them all by surprise, and that the latter seems to have taken the result 'a good deal too coolly; and to have imitated Trevelyan's dangerous example of reading by himself and doing no composition, without having any of Trevelyan's classical intuition...' Reports that Thompson is now in Auvergne, having perfected his French at Paris, and that Trevelyan has returned from Paris. Expresses some doubts in relation to the latter's account of his and Thompson's sojourn in Paris. Reports that he himself has been spending his vacation in England, trying to cure his stammering. States that he is an M.A. now, and is getting to see more of the authorities of the College, whom he describes as 'a kind of big children.' Remarks that W.H. Thompson 'improves on acquaintance', and is 'so much more genial than one would have thought.' States that he [HS] is getting over his old objections against fellow-commoners. Admits that his is a very nice life, and that he actually gets through 'so very little work.' Wishes that he could shake off his laziness and begin to write. Claims that his views on religious and philosophical subjects are 'in a state of change', and wishes that he could talk to Cowell on these matters. Claims to have given up a good deal of his materialism and scepticism, 'and come round to Maurice and Broad Church again...' Claims to be 'deeply impressed by the impotence of modern unbelief in explaining the phenomena which Christians point to as evidences of the Holy Spirit's influence.' Discusses his interpretation of the words 'religious' and 'irreligious' as applied to men. Hopes that Cowell is 'getting happily and delightfully convalescent' in Florence ['the famous city of Dante']. Wonders when he is to return to England, and if his 'distaste for the law and...devotion to philosophy' will continue when his health has improved. Remarks that he [HS] always thought that Cowell was made for the practical rather than the speculative life. Reports that the 'Society [Apostles]' flourishes, and that the only new member is Everett, who has considerable interests in Metaphysics. Refers to his 'declamation in chapel', with which the old Dons, especially [William] Whewell, were 'enraptured. Asks for the name of Cowell's guide for Bowen, who plans, with Young, a Swiss tour. .
1 doc.

9 May [1862]

Henry Sidgwick to [Rev. C.L. Dodgson]. States that the reasoning he [Dodgson] has sent to him is invalid in the last two steps, and explains his conclusions through logical equations. Adds that if his correspondent has 'ingeniously concealed some pitfall into which [HS has] artlessly fallen', he must bear in mind that he [HS] is professionally a moral philosopher, and not a logician. .
1 doc.

13 Mar 1894

Henry Sidgwick to Edmund Gurney. Agrees with him that 'W.F.B. cannot be allowed to used [Gurney's] experiments otherwise than in Report of Committee', and believes that he should not repeat at length in the Report what has already appeared in the Proceedings of the Society [for Psychical Research]. Offers to write to him. In relation to 'the barrister', states that he is quite willing to agree to him being taken on 'if he will do it gratis for love of science or if any one else will pay...' Adds that he may ask Smith to stay with him during the 'Mesmeric Experiments', and that 'it would not be much of a bore for NS...' Asks Gurney if he thought 'anything [instructive] apropos of World's attack', and asks if the eminent scientist is their asinine friend. .
1 doc.

14 Feb 1884

Henry Sidgwick to E.E. Constance Jones. Asks her if she would be willing to read the proofs of the first four chapters of the Methods of Ethics, of which he is preparing a sixth edition. Undertakes to send them to her with the '"copy" ' if she agrees. .
1 doc.

19 Jan 1900

Henry Sidgwick to Alfred Marshall. Announces that they 'have just settled the [examination results of, and prizes to be awarded to,] the women', and that it has been decided that Miss [Larmer] should get the scholarship. Claims to be somewhat disappointed in her work. States that she was 'clearly head' in Political Economy and second by two marks in Logic. Adds that they only gave out two firsts in Group D, and no distinction. States that he got Venn to fix the standard for passing level with that of '[Poll men] in June.' Refers to Miss M. Kennedy's work, which 'agreeably surprised' him. States that his plans of lecturing the following term are still rather vague, 'on account of Miss L's uncertainty'. In relation to Evolution, claims to have understood the view Marshall expressed the previous term, but does not think he agrees with him, and is quite sure that he does not agree with Karl Marx. Declares that '[t]his Spiessb�rger is after all only our friend the "Bourgeois" for whose wicked selfishness Political Economy is supposed to have been invented...' Claims that when he first read socialistic tracts he was much impressed with the breadth of view implied 'in this contemptuous term', but, on reflection, believes that 'the Bourgeois after all appeared to [him] the heir of the ages...and so of Bentham's Normal Man.' Declares that he does not quite understand Marshall's position on Benthamism. States that he does not think it the special function of the Philosophy of Jurisprudence to develop dynamical conception, and that he believes that a grasp of the Utilitarian method of determining rules would have been of the greatest value to himself. States that he had 'worked out principles of constitutional Jus[tice] - for B[entham]'s Normal Mensche in two or three lectures', and is consequently biased in favour of the method. Claims that it is too hot to work in Cambridge, and that he is reading novels. .
1 doc.

Jul/Aug 1877

97A/1

Henry Sidgwick to James Ward. Annouces that he and Whitehead have looked through Russell's Dissertation, and both think it 'decidedly able, and deserving a careful estimate'. Undertakes to make a preliminary report of it and send it to Ward. Refers to a note on L[ ], with which HS proposes to deal. Reports that the first half is primarily mathematical, and states that he need only read most if it cursorily, as it falls mainly within the competence of Whitehead, and that it is the third and fourth chapters that Ward should concentrate on. Asks if he would like to have it sent to him, or if he is to come back to Cambridge before the reports are wanted. Hopes that he is getting on well with the lectures. .
1 doc.

6 Sep 1895

97A/2

Clare Campbell [granddaughter of James Ward] to [ ]. Letter accompanying that from HS to Professor James Ward, explaining that she found the latter among old family papers. .
1 doc.

18 Jan 1969

97/1-2

Copy [of] letter from HS to F.W.H. Myers. [see 100/217]. Reports that he has received his letter, and declares that he would much like to come and see him at Cheltenham. Announces that he is going to Rugby for a week, and must be in Cambridge from 1 October, 'partly for ladies' lectures, partly to catch zealous pupils who are to be examined in November, and dialectically improve them before term begins.' States that he read his poem, 'Ammergau', in [Macmillan's Magazine], and declares that it did not please him quite as much as 'the Roman poem', but that he liked the close exceedingly. Reports that he returned from Germany earlier than he had intended because of the war. Declares that his sympathies have turned round lately. Asserts that 'there is something almost attractive about French conceit' and that the image of a victorious German is unappealing. Fears that they shall miss each other at Rugby, and mentions that he may go down there again for a day or two if he finds the time, but envisages that they shall meet 'in town'. Offers to introduce him to Hutton. Remarks that 'the Spectator is not particularly good to write for as the editors do so much themselves'. Note by F.W.H. Myers: 'I thought at that time of taking to writing reviews'. .
1 doc.

19 Sep 1871 [or 1870]

97/3-5

Copy [of] letter from HS to F.W.H. Myers. [copy of 100/218]. Asks for information concerning Myers' coming to Cambridge, 'The Prospects of Poetry' and 'The Probabilities of Medicine etc etc'. Declares that they have much to discuss, HS having failed to write due to the unrealised expectation of seeing Myers at Rugby. Reports that he has to teach history that term, 'no successor having turned up to Pearson: and Cambridge breeding no healthy young resident and locking him up with a Hume.' Asks if he has seen Noel 'in the Dark Blue'. Suggests that he may have been ashamed to send it to Myers, as 'some of the polemic is almost personal'. Declares that it is very well written, 'except the polemical part', and states that he writes better prose than verse. Reports that Noel nearly quarrelled with him 'for reluctantly avowing that [HS] did not consider him an equal of Swinburne.' States that Noel 'thinks that the Verbal School [S. Rossetti, etc - non sine te] have been found out'. Refers to 'Edinburgh' of July, and the Contemporary [Review] of October as having evidence to support this theory. States that Noel also thinks that 'Buchanan and R.N are going to be chaired instead by a mutable but at length appreciative public.' Refers to 'a certain Mutual Admiration league' between Noel and Symonds. Believes that the latter's poetry could be successful, 'if he could only impassion himself about a good subject.' Asks Myers to send his last epic. Tells him to read Noel's article. Sends his regards to Myers' mother. Announces that his second correspondence circular is soon to appear. Reports that Miss Clough is in Cambridge, that the house is 'getting on', and that there will be five [women] there that term. .
1 doc.

10 Oct 1871

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Tells him that he may tell anyone he wishes to tell, as he supposes the information 'will come quite out in a day or two.' Tells him to count on him 'for the 4th', and presumes that he has made arrangements at Newcastle. States that Dakyns, with whom he is staying, 'would like to come to about half a dozen seances', and asks if he shall be let in. Declares that he is a sympathetic person, and would be good. .
1 doc.

n.d.

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that nothing fresh has happened, but declares that 'what has happened...seems to [him] to furnish adequate matter for a Dialogue between a Poet and a Philosopher.' Arranges to meet 'at the Restaurant' to talk. .
1 doc.

n.d.

100

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to Barrett's letter as 'a bore'. States that they must 'maintain the distinction between experimental work and collection of narratives, and betweem hypnotic and normal state'. Suggests that they appease Barrett by admitting 'the great advantage of having all the evidence set forth together from time to time by an able hand' and allow him to print his paper, provided it is not called a 'Report of the [ ] [ ] Committee.' States that he is writing to Gurney with this proposal. Adds that he intends to propose the Lord Rayleigh F.R.S. as Vice-President at their next council meeting. .
1 doc.

12 Feb 1884

101

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that what he has told him 'is certainly a relief', and claims that he shall now find it easier to tell those who have to be told, 'without saying anything about his insanity.' Refers to a s�ance, at which he, NS, Slade and [Lanchester] were present, and which is the subject of some controversy. Thinks that Myers had better go, 'when Miss B[ibby]'s sittings are over, if nothing else turns up.' States that if Myers comes across anything good, he [HS] will instantly come to town and go with him. Undertakes to send back Miss B[ibby]'s note the following day. Sends his regards to Myers' mother. .
1 doc.

n.d.

102

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he and NS are 'intensely interested' by Myers' letter. Claims that, taken in connection with their experience, 'the evidence for "spiritual [thoughtreading]" at least is strong in proportion to the improbability of unconscious self [ ] on the part of both NS and [Myers].' Does not thing the evidence of identity strong, 'unless the statement about the M.S. turns out correct.' Claims that the long message seems 'vague; and the mention of Edward [ ] not very strong.' States that he has found it very difficult to think of questions to which Myers will not know the answers, put has put down some. .
1 doc.

n.d.

103

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for sending him 'j'ai perdu', but claims that he is not altogether contented with it. Analyses parts of the poem in terms of its translation, and remarks, for example, that the second four lines do not seem to him 'to give Alfred's feeling.' Questions him in relation to 'the "Translation of Faith" ', which he finds 'more than impressive.' Refers to 'the enclosed' [not include], which will show Myers how they have got on so far. .
1 doc.

Feb 1870

104

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Claims to find Myers' verses 'very moving'. Goes on to list his objections in relation to its content. With regard to Sir B[ ], thinks it would be undignified to make an obvious effort to [ ] him, 'unless through some one who knows him personally.' .
1 doc.

n.d.

105

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Asks whether the 'I. of the S.' is proved or not. Wishes Myers to dine with him 'on Thursday at 7.15, and reports that his Anglo-Indian friends, the Bermards' will be there, and he wishes them to hear Myers' 'additional evidence'. .
1 doc.

23 Oct [ ]

106

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. In relation to Miss Brooke, declares that without being pretty, she is not ugly, and that her face 'shows feeling and intelligence when one looks close.' States however, that 'one has to penetrate a slight veil of dullness to see these qualities', and that 'there is not a particle of girlish attractiveness about her...' Asks Myers what he thinks of HS' proposal to tell Miss Clough that he [Myers] is a correspondent, and to arrange to go in some evening. In relation to the 'dear damsel, states that his experience of the correspondents would not incline him to give a tragic interpretation to her silence. Refers to his own correspondents, who are all 'irregular and arbitrary in their ways, except one young strenuous well-trained governess in London, and the admirable and delightful Annie Thomas'. Announces that he is off to Rugby the following day, 'where the impending crisis still [hovers]. Invites him to breakfast on Sunday or Monday, 'and see one or two undergraduates.' .
1 doc.

May 1872

107

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that they are all going to London 'on the 6th', and he proposed to attend regularly from that time forward. Adds that he will come 'on the 4th', if Myers really wants him. States that five of them [including Lady Rayleigh and NS Sidgwick] propose to attend 'from 6th to 17th, at Holland's invitation. Reports that because he had not heard from him he 'concluded to put off Dakyns.' Reports that he has just heard 'the terrible news'. Asks Myers to write to him. .
1 doc.

31 Dec 1885

108

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Claims to be very glad to hear from him. Refers to his excuses about 'the stay of Capua'. States that he [and NS] 'shall be glad to hear about the Ghosts.' Invites him to Cambridge, and states that they shall be alone until 10 October. Refers to the 'Poem', which he describes as 'st[ ] and entertaining and pleasure-giving', but open to some criticisms, which he proceeds to set forth. Sends his kind regards to Myers' mother. .
1 doc.

23 Sep [1879]

109

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that a telegram has just arrived from Gurney to say that he will be [in Bradford] on Wednesday to begin investigations with Kesshew, the Southport Mesmerist. States that they have seen the Cl[ ] man twice, and professes to rather like him and think him honest, but reports that they have not got anything out of him yet, and is not very hopeful about his 'Clairvoyants'. Thinks, however, that he is worth trying further. Announces that they go to Sunderland the following day to see Ogle and his ' "[Dick]" '. States that he has looked up both the Leeds stories, and declares that [T ] is 'a very satisfactory person, but his story is slightly deteriorated by further information.' Finds that 'the other story's "William" is Dr G[ ]'s father', and he will write it out for HS as he heard it from his father. States that it is not possible to find confirmation of the story, but that he has discovered 'that the "lecture of the eminent surgeon" was probably a paper before the Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society' in April 1828 by William Hey. Thinks that the papers are still in existence, and has got Stephen Marshall to make enquiries. Announces that they return [to Cambridge] on the following Saturday or Monday. Hopes that Myers' family 'is in perfect wellbeing'. .
1 doc.

17 Sep [ ]

110

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that on receiving Myers' 'excellent' news he 'went and settled with the P's finally on the terms of Mrs P's last note.' Announces that they will probably come on 'Sat. 29th.' Announces tha the should be delighted to dine in [H]. Sq. on 13th if there is no s�ance', but asks ought they not to have Eglinton there. Says that he will dine on Wednesday wherever Myers likes, but doesn't particularly want it known that he is in town 'for this purpose', and therefore doesn't want the Savile [Club]. Adds that Gurney is 'ever so much better.'.
1 doc.

n.d.

111

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Tells him to send him more letters, as they are charming. Discusses Myers' poem, in terms of its grammar and tone. In relation to another, un-named matter, states that he echoes Myers last words, and asks 'who is worthy?' Adds that 'Fawcett bemoans loudly [Myers'] taking the pay of the Govt.', and says that he 'might have been M.P. for BIRMINGHAM!!!!!' .
1 doc.

23 Oct [1872]

112/1

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that 'Raper will probably be in Savile Club on Thursday at 1.30 for Lunch', and that he has promised to meet him there and to persuade Myers to come along. States that he shall probably arrive at 13 A[ ] St. about 11.15, but certainly not later than 1. Adds that Raper 'was at the Club, but made No Calls'.
1 doc.

Jul 1873

112/2

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. States that 'Prof P. decided Tuesday' [re. the Professorship of Moral Philosophy], and claims not to care very much. Reports that he has seen Miss Brooke, with whom he had been corresponding, and reports that 'she is not so good as to make you put aside the idea of Miss Drew' to whom G[ ] H[ ] had introduced him. .
1 doc.

Apr 1872

113

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Quotes an extract from a missive to him from an unknown correspondent, including an invitation to HS and Myers to lunch with [them] in Blackbrook, Southborough on 'Saturday the 4th', and gives directions as to arrive at Chiselhurst by train. HS states that he shall very likely join the train at London Bridge, coming from Cambridge. .
1 doc.

23 Sep [ ]

114

Henry Sidgwick to F.W. H. Myers. Postcard. States that 'Monday 16th to Wed 18th' would suit him [and NS] 'excellently', except that he is occupied on Tuesday evening from 8.30 onwards. Asks him to write or telegraph if the above is not a reason for choosing other days, and NS will write to Mr T[ ] immediately. Announces that they have room for Myers if he does not mind a very small room. .
1 doc.

Feb 1880

115

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that they are going to stay a night in London, and are only passing through. States that he will go up early and see Myers between 12 and 1, before lunching with NS. Suggests Albemarle or elsewhere, and asks if this would suit. States that he wants much 'audire et [ ] voce[s]'. .
1 doc.

Jan 1880

116

[F.W.H. Myers] to Henry Sidgwick. Postcard. Blank on one side. With a note in HS's hand: 'Is this symbolical of your frame of mind, the Ultimate Fact of the Universe or What?' .
1 doc.

May 1874

117

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he has 'P___y's signature, and states that he [and NS] 'now own a fine property over there'. Hopes that Myers has not 'd_g_d'. .
1 doc.

Mar 1875

118/1

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Thanks him for the warning. Explains that he has been detained longer where he is, and finds that he must go to Cambridge for a day or two to settle matters. States that he cannot come before '15th or 17th', but undertakes to come then, unless he receives a communiqu� from Terling first. States that he will write decisively on Wednesday '[12th]', or will telegraph on Thursday. Adds that he will write again the following day, 'after hearing the decision of "Mr John Morley" '. .
1 doc.

Aug 187[4]

118/2

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he will call at the Savile Club between 10 and 11 the following day, and will be with Myers at 2.30 at any place named in his note, and will be ready to dine with him 'in the evening anywhere.' .
1 doc.

Jul 1874

119/1

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Tells him to '[s]end back Xmas R.' States that he 'must write to the A_th_r', and asks him what he thinks of it. Invites him to 'COME UNTO THE YELLOW SANDS on Monday 23rd', and tells him to bring his own philosophy. .
1 doc.

Jul 1873

119/2

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he thinks he need not dine at Savile Club on Wednesday, and that he has arranged with Paul to 'drop in there about 6.15, see O[ ], and ask him to one s�ance', after which they can decide if they will go on with him. Tells Myers to arrange for him as he finds fitting. .
1 doc.

Jul 1874

120

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Thanks him for 'sacrificing [himself] to [HS's] conscience.' Reports that Mrs Bowen says Myers has arranged to go to [the Bowens'] the following week. Asks him to let him know when he goes. .
1 doc.

Jan 1874

121

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Hopes he will come [to Margate], where HS has been for a fortnight. Reports that 'Xmas Rose has come.' Refers to Myers' disappointment with the world. Announces that he is writing 'T_p_l D_p_[ts] in sadness of heart'. Quotes some German verse. Reports that the 'Authoresses are gone abroad.' Asks if he would like to read Mrs Cornish's novel Alcastis, which he thinks 'a decided success.' Asks him to recommend some good novel 'that can be bought at a Carthaginian circulating Library.' .
1 doc.

25 Jun 1873

122

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his letter. Declares his advice to be good, and states that he is disposed to adopt it. Quotes Alexander Pope: 'To err is human, to succeed Divine', and Francis I: Tout est sauv� [ ] l'honneur'. .
1 doc.

Apr 1874

123

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. In Latin, English and French. Refers to Gurney's letter to which he has not replied. Gives as an excuse [for not having written to Myers] that he was waiting for 'des nouvelles encore stupendiores.' Announces that the room 'shall be ready and open', and tells him to look in at his if he comes at 11. Refers to arrangements to dine on Thursday. .
1 doc.

Oct 1875

124

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Thanks him for his note, 'which pleases and relieves [him] from anxiety.' Claims to feel 'as serene and sublime as usual', and states that they shall be with Myers the following day. Reports that they 'bore a poem of Brown's C[ ] night for three hours unflinchingly', and remarks that '[s]urely this proves Genius!' .
1 doc.

Dec 1874

125

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he thinks of printing the enclosed [not included] 'as "correspondence" ', but thinks it 'rather a baseless speculation'. Sends it to Myers, in case he should wish to add any reply. .
1 doc.

14 Apr 1880

126

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that Mrs S[ ] is 'pretty good'. Declares J[ ] S[anby to be 'real grit down to the ground', and 'a great find'. Hopes that his [HS'] visit may be fruitful. Laments that 'Andrew Carn[ ] must be reduced to initials...' Reports that 'Robertson [they] could not arrive at'. Adds that he saw no objection to Myers' results, 'if results there must be, which [he feels] rather doubtful about'. .
1 doc.

[Apr 1884]

127

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Advises him to tell Carlisle the enclosed [not included], and to explain to him tha the cannot take the responsibility of not telling him, 'considering the extent to [which] R.T.'s predictions are shown by experience to be veridical'. Suggests that he might add that knowing his general attitude he had hesitated to tell him .
1 doc.

15 May 1900

128

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that Myers' news was 'very cheering', but that he had hoped for some more that morning. Reports that the P[ettys] 'have not come up to the mark'. Remarks that the 'new complication about the girls makes the prospects of [their] visit in the winter more interesting.' Asks about a [fraudulent] s�ance, which was attended by Myers and Rankin and others. Announces that his attic will be ready 'on the 27th', and that he shall be in Cambridge that Sunday. States that they 'will entertain a select party of friends.' Adds that if Myers should dislike the attic, suggests that B[ ] might be willing to make some sort of arrangement with him about his rooms. Sends his regards to the Hollands. .
1 doc.

18 Oct [ ]

129

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to 'this unfortunate coincidence of visits'. Asks him if he could possibly come to 'a t�te � t�te breakfast on Saturday'. States that he thinks that he could put off his lecture on that day to 10 o'clock. Reports that he is very busy, and feels 'a sort of philosophic Martha to [Myers'] Minnie'. .
1 doc.

17 Nov 1873

130

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that they are very disappointed 'with what one almost certainly prognosticated.' Remarks, however, that it is 'a really good case of thoughtreading'. Laments the fact that they have missed their medium somehow. States that, in the abstract, he quite approves of Myers going to Ireland, 'in search of the haunted house', but presumes that Myers would like his opinion on the [ ] case. Reports that he has written to Burns for another medium. Announces that they go back to Cambridge on the following Friday. Invites him down there to tell them more about P[ ]. .
1 doc.

19 Aug [ ]

131

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he will go to Newcastle, despite feeling that it is not worth while to get Mrs Ogle to come south, 'unless the phenomenon gets a little better.' Remarks that they shall gain little by further experiments of vision of objects held before eyes plastered up. Announces that he has arranged to meet the Ch[ ] man on Saturday afternoon. States that he could not see Dr [Gott] in Leeds, but say Mr [ ], 'and liked him, and got all [he] could out of him'. .
1 doc.

11 Sep [ ]

132

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Hopes that he has had a successful visit. Announces that he has to go back to London the following day, and therefore shall not see him, but states that NS would like to aks him about 'one or two points for the Journal at once.' Asks him if he could come the following afternoon. Sends a letter of B[ ]worth's [not included], which he and NS think that Myers ought to insert, as he assumes that the latter is likely to add some reference to it in his reply to V[euman], of which he encloses a proof [not included]. Claims that Myers' proposal about Paris takes his breath away, but that they are prepared to discuss it. .
1 doc.

[25 Apr 1889]

133

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that they have taken note of his addendum to the story, but is unsure if it will appear in the following number. Reports that 'E.G and F.P had sent more than a sheetful: but it will be equallly impressive in the September No.' In relation to the introduction, thinks that Myers is quite right to act on his own opinion. Claims that he would not have expressed any opinion 'the other way' had Myers not put the 'Irish Question' to him. Suggests an alternative word to a line in [Myers'] sonnet. .
1 doc.

29 Jul 1885

134

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he shall be in Cambridge on both 25 March and 1 April, but does not know whether the Ad Eundem will be on the one day or the other. Refers to Myers' 'munificent [ ]', and states that his mother did talk of giving him a watch, but that he has not been counting on it. Thinks that the week of his marriage has now been fixed, i.e., the week before Passion week. Hopes that there will be only a few of their friends, including Myers, 'bored by the ceremony'. Sends his kindest remembrances to all. Reports that he has just come back from Rugby 'where the Quartette has been very nice.' Adds that he is glad to hear f[ ] accounts of the K. .
1 doc.

20 Feb [ ]

135

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets having missed him Claims that in writing his note to Crookes it became clear to him that they had better not allude 'to "uncorrected proof" etc'. Is of the opinion that Crooke's letter 'had better be brief and as polite in form as possible', and convey the fact that neither he nor his hearers believed that the evidence for telepathy 'appeared to be sufficient to justify a serious attempt at a physical hypothesis...' Suggests that Crookes might add that he '[ ] guarded himself against the idea that he was offering a complete physical [ ].' .
1 doc.

n.d.

136

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that Mrs Fay won't even come to Carlton Gardens; that Paddock 'insists that she is now an "Entertainer" and must not appear as a medium.' Describes this 'duplicity' as 'degrading and humiliating', and reports that he told the Colonel his opinion, 'which he received...with Tradesmanlike Dignity.' Announces that [Basil] Champneys is to come up to Cambridge on Thursday until Saturday. Asks Myers to tell his bedmaker to get a room for him. States that Mrs Jen[ ] 'is shilly-shallying', and may get him into difficulties about his visits. Asks if he may, without being rude, move his visit to him [Myers] about between 15 August and 8 September. .
1 doc.

n.d.

137

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that 'Leaf is disposed to join' and that it only remains to fix a time. States that the period from 6 to 20 January suits him best. Declares that, on reflection, and for various reasons, he would like to cut off the possibility of his ever 'joining in the Fay business.' Feels disposed to leave Mrs Fay to Myers and Crookes, but adds that as a friend of Myers she will always claim his 'kind regards and service.' Announces that he wishes to undertake 'all the pecuniary liabilities as regards the Newcastle medium - except what Leaf contributes'. Urges Myers to concentrate his resources on Mrs Fay, whom he would rather keep as far as possible from communication with other professional mediums. Asks Myers whether he shall be in town on the following Sunday. Announces that he shall be at Midland Hotel, 'having s�ances and arranging for the week after - but only for one night.' .
1 doc.

n.d.

138

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his letter regarding 'very satisfactory arrangements'. Reports that the musical box has been forwarded. Announces that they will arrive on 2 January at C[ ]. Regrets that they 'cannot interpolate Chelt. between Cam. and Clifton' because they expect his brother William and his wife rather late, and therefore must stay in Cambridge rather late. .
1 doc.

13 Dec [ ]

139

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Asks if he can see him as he passes through town. Announces that he is there [in London] until Friday afternoon 'alone - for pursuit of truth.' States that he had only heard the news a day or two before he got Myers', but claims that he cannot write about it. .
1 doc.

n.d.

140

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has written to Ba[ ], and explains that his doubt arose from Myers 'having mentioned the other rooms [Hare's] as if [he] preferred them.' Asks him, if he proposes to go down 'thither' on Friday, to write to Mould and Turk's Head. States that he shall be ready to go, if he likes. Tells him to take the lodgings if necessary. State that he will occupy them if the mediums don't. Announces that Leaf and he will come to dinner on Thursday at Th[ ] Square. .
1 doc.

n.d.

141

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Complains about the demand made by Mr and Mrs Petty [the latter being a medium] to HS [and Myers] to pay them 'P's expenses and compensation for loss of time plus the 50� for six months.' Sets out arguments for and against the payment. Asks for Myers' opinion on the matter. Suggests that he could still offer 'a fixed weekly payment rather higher...or ask them to name the sum'. .
1 doc.

1 May [ ]

142

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he shall be in Cambridge the following day. Refers to the enclosed [not included}, which might interest him. Announces that he goes to T[ ] from Wednesday to Friday, and that he will go and see Myers 'after Hale' the following day, if not before. .
1 doc.

n.d.

143

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Invites him to dinner that evening at 7.30, or after dinner if he would prefer. Reports that NS is anxious 'to hear all about Miss Sibley'. .
1 doc.

11 Apr [ ]

144

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Confirms that they will be at 'U.C.G.' on Saturday by 8.15, 'and will be ready for any arrangements.' Refers to the regulation of ' "one only" ', which he holds to be 'in every way objectionable', and thinks it desirable that it be removed if possible. .
1 doc.

19 Dec [ ]

145

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has proposed the arrangement '[100�]', and thinks that it will be accepted. States that he went over and saw Kilburn, and liked him. Remarks that he was obliging and said offered to 'try to get up a s�ance with the Fawcitts.' Reports that Leaf is there in Newcastle, and refers to his reaction to a s�ance that he had attended. Gives his own opinion of the proceedings, and remarks that he hopes for a good development of B[ ] the following day. Enclosed Rayleigh's card [not included], and asks Myers if he will go. Thinks that he may stay over on Tuesday night, depending on Cambridge engagements. Reports that he is writing to Williams to propose a s�ance on Wednesday afternoon or evening. .
1 doc.

n.d.

146

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Asks him to send word to say whether HS is to investigate on Thursday evening or afternoon or neither. Asks Myers to send the enclosed note [not included] to Mrs Harrison, who has invited HS to dinner on 9 [Jan], and who he presumes has also invited Myers. States that he will decline the invitation if Myers does so, and in that case asks him to remove the acceptance from the envelope, and insert the alternative note. Tells him to send the acceptance if Myers intends to have a s�ance on Saturday exclusive of HS. .
1 doc.

4 Jan [ ]

147

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Tells him to read the enclosed [not included] 'and compare it with former letter.' Thinks that the P[ettys] 'are too grasping and have proposed falling back on the original agreement. Asks for his opinion on the matter. States that he is inclined 'to go on with Miss S.' Asks if he could manage '12th, 13th, 19th, 20th'; suggests that they might offer her the four dates, 'and then fill up with Eglinton and Sanby.' Asks if their ghosts walk about the room. Undertakes to write to him again. .
1 doc.

n.d.

148

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Reports that he has proposed Wednesday afternoon to Williams. Claims that he wishes to keep the evening free. Undertakes to tell Myers his answer on Sunday, writing from Thu[ ] Square. Reports that things [in Newcastle] 'are rather relapsing into mixedness', but trusts that the scheme is going on all right. .
1 doc.

Jan 1875

149

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Asks him to go to London on the following Friday at 2.30, and also on Tuesday 11 [July] at the same time. Explains that these are the days fixed for the [prolusions] with 'C.E.W.' States that if these succeed, they 'shall sit till further notice at the same time on 12th 13th etc'. Announces that his 'Frau visitabit L. F. demain.' .
1 doc.

Jul 1876

150

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for writing with regard to the accidental death of . Reports that they know nothing yet, except that he was killed with his guide on the Glacier of Fresnay near Courmayeur. Reports that Gerald and E[ ] have gone there. Announces that he is going to Cambridge the following day, and shall try to see him on Thursday. Undertakes to write again. Reports that 'NS has borne the shock well', but predicts that 'the life of the family will never be the same again.' .
1 doc.

1882

151

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to 'the remodelled review', which, he claims, is all that he should desire or deserve. Claims that he is keeping it a few days to see if his wife can find time to read it, but explains that the latter is much distracted at present with Newnham affairs. Doubts that desirability of answering the review in the American Journal of Psychology, 'as the writer makes so much of the [Creevys], and claims that nothing that they could say 'would be particularly effective...' Suggests that if Myers has some time on his hands now, that he might write a review of the life of Darwin. Remarks that 'Frank D. does not want the reviewing to be entirely done from the scientific point of view', and think that the latter would be glad to hear that Myers were thinking of reviewing the work. .
1 doc.

18 Nov 1887

152

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Claims that he opened 'the enclosed [not included] after much hesitation', as he thought that it might contain something that he ought to know at once. Refers to Myers' brother's letter, which conveyed the news that [Myers] had been conferred with an 'H.M.[E.]S.' Claims that he would have congratulated Myers if it had been at any other time. Reports that everything goes on well. Thinks that Petty will accept the offer, limiting them to five nights a week. Reports that Mrs Petty was the medium the previous night, the [test] 'being a thread through his ear sealed close to the ear and sealed to the ground.' Reports that the ghosts of two women appeared - 'Emma', and 'Minnie', the latter being the sister of Frank Hare. States that the Hares said that the face of 'Minnie' was 'sufficiently like', but states that he 'could not affirm that it was not like the medium.' Reports that the seals were perfect, and no knot in the thread. Reports that before she went in 'there had been a [tentative] with William, through whom "Chico" wrote the enclosed [not included]', and that the writing 'was said to be direct', but that they believe him to have used the medium's hand. States that he is grateful to Myers' brother for his letter, and asks if he shall come as Myers' substitute in London. .
1 doc.

n.d.

153

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he likes Myers' article 'muchly', and remarks that there are many good things in it and that it is well put together. Suggests, however, that the phrase 'relating to a "noble and innocent English girl" ' be excised, and also remarks that he does not himself care for 'the story about [Lelio], or think it particularly well adapted to lead the English public to the view of George Sand which [Myers wishes] to inspire.' Informs him that they are expecting him on the following Monday. States that he has not yet seen [ ] Cobb, but is preparing for the interview. .
1 doc.

6 Feb [ ]

154

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Fragment of letter. Asks his opinion on writing to N[ ] 'offering to give up one week of [HS', Myers' and others'] twelve if they will give Miss Wood a week's complete holiday'. Declares that it is 'all right about the Yorkes.' Reports that he has asked George Darwin, who 'is not "sympathetic", but really useful for tests', and 'is now exercising his mind on tips for fastening'. .
1 doc.

n.d.

155

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Hopes to see him on Tuesday afternoon, when HS undertakes to return his letter to him. Referring to Myers' 'experience', declares that 'the coincidence of the name and the [ ] is certainly remarkable.' Does not agree with him, however, that the name is an unusual one for a refined person. Remarks that 'one would be glad of more evidence if it could in any way be obtained: [viz.] either a fuller communication or some indirect evidence of supernormal powers.' Announces that they have settled 'about the Council'; that Hartley is to be proposed for election at the meeting, and HS is to propose B[ ]worth for cooptation. .
1 doc.

6 Jan 1889

156

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that 'the enclosed' [not included] will probably interest him in various ways. Asks if he could admit him to Miss Showers on 'Friday and Saturday [19th and 20th]. States that he might come to town for those nights, 'unless Miss Balfour should decide to come to Cambridge just then'. .
1 doc.

n.d.

157

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Hopes that he got his missives to Ellesmere, and if not, gives instructions with regard to hotel accommodation and arrangements to meet at the Savile Club or elsewhere. Expresses the desire to see either Miss Farren 'in the [critic] or John King. .
1 doc.

14 May [ ]

158

MS copy [in HS' hand] of F.W.H. Myers' account of a s�ance on 17 February, and written on 18 February. Lists those present as Myers, Gurney, Mr Mould, 'and 4 other members of the Newcastle Association. Lists the mediums as Miss Fairlamg and Miss Wood. Describes how the mediums were tied, and reports that they lay down in the cabinet. Describes the appearance of a spirit named ' "Pocky" ', , and her utterances and actions, and also describes the rapping of three other spirits named ' "B[ ]" ', ' "Geordie" ' and ' "[Cissy]" '. Describes the dematerialisation of ' "Pocky" '; she sunk away 'into a slight white mark on the ground in about half a minute.' Reports that when the mediums had recovered those present at the s�ance entered the cabinet in which they were tied and examined seals and knots. States that '[a]ll is unbroken though the nails had been driven so thoroughly through the substance of the silk that a slight push severed the silk from nails and seals'. Names of Myers and Gurney appended to the report. Diagram of room in which s�ance took place also on page. .
1 doc.

18 Feb [ ]

159

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that his brother William is not coming to them, and states that he 'could probably pursue Truth before Christmas 23rd or 24th if those days were fixed - and equally any days after Xmas.' Asks him to let him know when anything is settled. Announces that he shall see Butcher in Oxford 'on Saturday 14th or Monday 16th and shall urge him to come to [them] on 18th or 19th'. Undertakes to telegraph to Myers when he knows what Butcher is to do. .
1 doc.

[12 Dec 1878]

160

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him and asks him to send word as soon as he can. Tells him that if he has not mentioned HS to 'Mrs S.' not to do so, and declares that he will renew his acquaintance with her on his own account. Announces that he shall perhaps not go to town on Monday, as Rayleigh wants him to go to [Terling]. States that the latter 'is rather inclined to go in for the Fay business', and undertakes to urge him as strongly as he can. Thinks that he ought to let him know what Myers told him [HS] 'about the Colonel's "record" '. .
1 doc.

n.d.

161

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he did not see him the previous day - owing to the Marshalls not having come back - as he would have liked 'to talk over Mrs Fay etc.' Is considering calling on Crookes on Monday evening to tell him what has happened and to see what he says. Asks Myers for his opinion on the matter. Suggests that it may be better to wait until they can find out through Yorke or otherwise 'something more of the relations of R and N.' Announces that he shall be at 4 Carlton Gardens again on Monday. Offers to send back [ ] book. .
1 doc.

17 Jun [ ]

162

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thinks the stanzas 'very impressive and decidedly such as should be published.' Remarks, however, that he finds them 'a little too deliberate', and that in the last stanza 'the ingenuity seems...somewhat to refrigerate the pathos. Also refers to 'the accent of Promethean'. Reports that Myers' letter has come, and states that he 'joy[s] in [Myers'] joy and in the wonderful fashioning of destiny to this harmonious result.' Expresses a desire to see his 'betrothed'. Announces that he shall be in London on 13 January, 'and shall talk things over...with E.G.' Asks when he shall be back. States that they shall pass through on 20 and 24 January. .
1 doc.

5 Jan [ ]

163/1-2

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has been laid up [in Florence; 'chez G.W. Balfour'] 'with digestive derangements', which, he believes, are a result of 'the poisonous climate of the Eternal City.' Dares not face the voyage to Athens, but hopes to stay in Florence to recuperate, see the sights, and visit some neighbouring towns. Reports that they went to Signor Coen at Livorno. Relates that the latter refused to give them facts about the powers of instantaneous transmission possessed by his society, but invited them to Livorno, and offered to teach them and 'if possible show [them] some phenomena.' Explains that these plans had also to be postponed due to his illness, but hopes to go 'in a week or so.' Encloses a statement received from George Grove [not included], and suggests that there might be some legal evidence attainable. Hopes that everything is going well with him, 'and with the cause.' Undertakes to write again when he knows more about Coen. Reports that he found a professor in Rome called Ferri, who 'was in a tolerably reasonable frame of mind about [their] investigation and not disinclined to help [them].' Reports that he left him the circular asking him to circulate it if convenient, but HS has not heard from him since. Suggests that Myers propose that Ferri become a member, and also that he should encourage him to do something about the circular. States that Coen will be no good in this way, as he is 'too much of a prophet'. With envelope. (2 docs).
1 doc.

[3 Mar 1883]

164

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he has written to Barrett 'in the sense that [Myers'] letter indicates', but stresses that he did so reluctantly as he deems it very improper to dictate from a distance what ought to be done in the matter. Reports that he is still having some health problems. States that they expect his brother AS and the latter's wife to arrive there [in Florence] that evening. Anticipates that they [HS and NS Sidgwick] will go away, either with AS and his wife, or by themselves 'about the end of the week and get to Livorno a day or two after'. Asks Myers to send him a statement of the position of Corresponding Members, and states that he will ask Ferri to become a member himself. Refers to Myers' brother's marriage. Asks him to propose Gerald Balfour on his behalf as a member of the Society for Psychical Research, and to second him. Claims that he is the only ' "Hegelian" ' whom HS has found in sympathy with them. Discusses Balfour in relation to his 'system' and his philosophy, and adds that he sends Myers his 'kind remembrances' from Florence, where he lives. States that his book is due out at Easter, and claims that he and NS are very interested to hear of Myers' book, 'and wonder what the series is'. Sends on NS' love to Myers' wife. .
1 doc.

[12 Mar 1883]

165

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Expresses his reluctance to involve the Society for Psychical Research with the Theosophic Society [by giving them the use of their room], and draws a comparison to their 'mixture with the C.A.S.' Does not, however, see how they can 'refuse the offer without giving offence. States that if Stone does object, he should agree. Voices his objection to bringing forward stories of premonitions, 'before [they] have got the Phantasms of the living off [their] hands.' Believes that the [ ] or d'Assier, 'enlivened with stories, will be enough besides experiments of [their] own'. In relation to experiments, believes that they 'certainly ought to make an offer to Bishop' and that 'if nothing is done Labouch�re and the sceptics have the best of it'. Remarks that, having read Bishop's letter in the Times that day, he gets the impression 'that the man is a charlatan'. Regrets to report that the household [in Davos Platz, Switzerland] is rather sad; that 'J.A.S. is not well and there is great anxiety about Janet, whose state is very critical'. Reports also that there are 'great searchings of heart as to the wisdom of having burnt ships and built [in] this strange and [ ] land'. Hopes that Myers feels 'in the "right way" as an F.T.S'. .
1 doc.

21 Jun 1883

166

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Observes that this 'other [ ]' justifies them in asking 'Mrs S.' to give them firsthand evidence 'for this very important point of the story', but leaves the matter up to Myers. Reports that he is in Shrewsbury 'endeavouring "[ ] [ ]" between Hughes and C.C.M.', and announces that the following day he goes to Mrs [Burton]. States that he shall be at Southport on Thursday morning to receive Mrs Hargreave's narrative, and hopes to meet Myers at the Council on Friday. .
1 doc.

[30 Dec 1883]

167

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he cannot agree with Gurney's view. Believes that 'if Bishop were to turn round and say he had tricked [them], he would have to say also how the trick was done, in order to discredit [them].' In the event of it not being a trick, HS believes, Bishop 'cannot invent a plausible fiction of a trick, if [they] take due precautions'. Approves of Barrett writing about their results 'and offering a cautious challenge to Bishop'. In this way the Society for Psychical Research would be making clear to to the public that they 'are not at present supporting Bishop, but only prepared to investigate him.' Fears that Myers' letter, which HS signed, and Labouch�re's reply may have caused the Society to be associated with Bishop in the public mind. In relation to the proposal to let a room to the Theosophic Society, claims to have no strong view. States that they [HS and NS Sidgwick] 'are much pleased at the Darwinian matrimonial engagement.' .
1 doc.

27 Jan 1883

168

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to the Maines, and the fact that he had not yet asked them. States that he prefers to observe his general rule of not obtruding the Society for Psychical Research on his friends. Asks Myers to tell Mrs Tennant that he cannot accept her kind invitation, as he has an engagement on Thursday evening. .
1 doc.

13 Jan 1884

169

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that it is '[a]ll right about Graham', and that they can regard it as a delegation, but they must let Browning have the names. Reports that he has been reading Myers' proof, which seems to him 'quite the right thing', but suggests some additions and emendations. Claims that 'the previous Report of the Literary Committee affirmed unheitatingly the existence of telepathic impressions', whereas [Myers' report] apparently treats this question as open.' States the necessity of reconciling the position of the former report with that of the new one. Also suggests some alterations to certain phrases used within the report. Reports that the lecture was 'fairly successful: so far as [HS] and Gurney [could] judge.' States that he [sent] [Gurney] Podmore's proposal, which he approves. .
1 doc.

29 Jan 1884

170

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his letter. Thinks that he must come back [to England from Switzerland]. Explains that he has agreed to put his name on the Unionist Liberal Committee, and would feel that he 'had not acted up to [his] principles' if he did not turn up to vote.' Requests him to send a telegram 'as soon as the day is known', and gives directions in relation to the address to which it should be sent. Reports that they are having a good time, and that 'J.A.S' and his three younger daughters are well. States however, that 'they have hardly any hope' in relation to Janet. .
1 doc.

[27 Jun 1886]

171

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Congratulates him on the birth of his second son, and tells him to observe whether he has the brains of the family. Invites him to play lawn tennis on Thursday. Sends back Myers' sonnet, which, he claims, he liked. Claims that he would rather write a sonnet than play law tennis. Complains about the rhododendron. Sends on NS' best wishes. .
1 doc.

21 Sep [ ]

172

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he [and NS] hope to return to Cambridge from Scotland on the following Monday, 22 September 1890. Reports that they have had 'experiences of an interesting kind.' .
1 doc.

Sep 1890

173

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his 'kind words about [his] proposed arrangements with the University', and is glad that it impresses him as the right sort of thing to do. In relation to [Thurston], states that one view is that they had better offer him no suggestion at present, and agrees with Myers that 'his "multitudinism" ' may be of real use to them. Suggests, however, that 'the best time to intervene will be when he thinks he has found a [sensitive] who can be [operated] upon in solitude.' Announces that he [and NS] return to Cambridge on the following Monday, for a fortnight. .
1 doc.

Jun 1896

174

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he went to Leckhampton that afternoon to tell him his news in person, but Myers was away, so he decided to write. Explains that he has an organic disorder of the bowels, which requires an operation. States that it is uncertain as to how long he will live after it, and adds that 'it will be only an invalid halflife.' Claims that he had been reluctant to tell those who love him, but that day is telling his brothers and sisters, 'and one or two intimate friends.' Asks Myers to tell no one. States that he [and NS] may have to 'put [their] visitors off', but that if everything goes ahead as arranged he envisages that he shall probably go to the [Synthetic], but not to the dinner. Declares that life is now 'very strange' and 'very terrible', but that he tries to 'meet it like a man, [his] beloved wife aiding [him].' Acknowledges that the letter 'may be farewell', and declares that Myers' friendship has had 'a great place' in his life. .
1 doc.

24 May 1900

175

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he his attitude towards life has undergone a complete transformation. Reports that a second surgeon whom he consulted thought that HS was not in a proper condition for the operation, and ordered him to 'eat drink and be merry for a few days first.' Explains that he tells Myers this, so that he may know when he goes to visit HS the following day 'that conviviality is not a scientific, but a medical duty.' Informs him that he will see HS at the Synthetic dinner that night 'in obedience to the same order.' .
1 doc.

[25 May 1900]

176

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Sends [back] Myers two books [not included], and judges one of them - ' "Helplessness of Miss Pick" ' to be 'quite firstrate'. Declares that the actual date of his [and NS'] departure from London is rather uncertain, but reports that his convalescence 'is supposed to be steady'. States that the letter is the first written with his own hand [since his operation]. .
1 doc.

[25 Jun 1900]

177

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Declares that this is the last letter he dates from 18 Langham Street. Remarks on how long it seems since his operation, and states that in those thirty-three days, he has been 'entirely free from pain and fairly free from discomfort, and full of kindness of friends and acquaintances.' Announces that he goes that day to the Cliftonville Hotel in Margate, where NS is already, and that they shall probably spend the fortnight of their stay there. Invites Myers to visit them. Declares that his future is still uncertain, but states that his doctor and nurses continue to assure him that he has been convalescing well. Hopes that all is well with Myers and his family. Refers to his need for courage at this time. .
1 doc.

[3 Jul] 1900

178

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for both his letters and enclosures, especially the last from Lyall, which he returns [not included]. Announces that he thinks he shall try to write [his] reminiscences when he gets back a little intellectual energy. Remarks that the advantage of such a work is that it may legitimately be fragmentary. States that he is encouraged by what L[yall] says of any contribution to Tennyson. Reports that he has been going on 'with "ups and downs" ', and has not progressed very much since Myers' visit. Believes, however, that he has more energy on his good days. Declares that he is glad to hear what Myers says about Hodgson, and that he is looking forward to seeing the latter. Reports that his brother AS has been to visit him. .
1 doc.

17 Jul 1900

179

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Reports that his plans are 'rather in a muddle', and that he cannot be sure of being in London 'except on the evening of the 23rd and next morning.' States that he shall be glad to dine with Myers anywhere that evening 'or breakfast next morning.' .
1 doc.

Jul 1873

180

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he shall arrive about 1.30 on the following day 'at Q.A.M.' Explains that NS will not be able to go, as she must lunch with her relations. Undertakes to bring 'the chapter on W.' .
1 doc.

Jul 1880

181

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Explains that he has been rather unwell ever since he has been in Rome ['dyspeptic and hypochondriacal']. Declares that the ancient remains and the works of art have impressed him as much as he expected, but complains of those that are ' "restored" and plastered over by the later ages of make believe.' States that he [and NS] are glad to hear that Myers got results of value, and are sorry about the delay of the article, which NS has read and finds very interesting. Adds that he sees one or two points that he would like to alter, but 'will think them over and write to Gurney.' Reports that he has been trying to find out something about Spiritualistic movement in Rome, and is considering spreading Myers' circular. Asks him to send 'the writer of the letter' their proceedings, and a copy of Myers' circular, asking him to circulate it in Austria. Reports that they tried in vain to see Leg[ ] in Paris, and so have not yet gone to Livorno. Annouces that they are to go and try to see Signor Coen. In relation to ' "corresponding members" ', he thinks the idea a good one, 'as applied to foreigners', but thinks that it is, 'by usage, so suggestive of foreigners that [he] should prefer some other term for people like Mrs Walwyn.' Suggest the term ' "local correspondents" '. Reports that NS is sightseeing much more effectively than he is, and that she sends her love. .
1 doc.

[30 or 28 Jan 1883]

182

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to '[t]he enclosed' [not included], which, he claims, will show Myers 'that the Plot thickens'. Reports that, on receipt of Myers' letter, he wrote at once to Mrs Fay, proposing the following Sunday, but offering 2 August as an alternative. Intends to go and see her on Thursday afternoon. Suggests that Myers should go up early on Thursday to advise him. Declares that he is not surprised that Myers wants to go to Hallsteads at once. Claims that he does not care for ' "Livingstone" '. .
1 doc.

20 Jul [ ]

183

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports on the burial of his brother-in-law Francis Maitland Balfour, who died in a climbing accident in the Alps. Writes that they 'have just laid the coffin in the earth...on high ground within a cluster of trees...' Speaks of the privilege he feels in being associated with the Balfour family for the past six years [as a consequence of being married to Eleanor Balfour]. Refers to the funeral as 'symbolic, interpreted by the words of the Apostle...' Announces that he and NS intend to return to Cambridge the following night. Adds that Rayleigh is going back then, and that they shall stay at 5 Salisbury Villas. Asks Myers to write to him there the following night to let him know how things have gone since he last wrote. Expresses his desire to join in any experiment that Myers, if he has been successful, may make on Monday. Asks him also to indicate when they may conveniently meet on Monday. Expects to be in Trinity or Newnham 'a good deal of the day.' Adds that he will look for Miss Masons MS when he gets to Cambridge. .
1 doc.

[5] Aug 1882

184

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he has wanted to write to him since he [and NS] went back to Cambridge [after his mother's funeral], but claims that he finds it difficult to write 'from perplexity and mingledness.' Writes that he feels as if he had 'reached the summit of the Pass of Life: behind the old memories from infancy, unrolled like a map, and before the strange world of "the majority" near though in a mist, at which [he is] forced to gaze.' Reports that NS was away 'all the time at Terling'. States that, although she was not seriously ill, he had been worried about her, but she considers herself quite well now. .
1 doc.

25 Jan [1879]

185

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has found, and encloses, Myers' former letter to R[ ] [not included]. Remarks that his concern for the health of Myers' family is 'touchin - and absurd', and that what he says about the difficulty of painting or papering is not surprising to him. Relates the experience of himself [and NS] with their own house, in relation to papering. Declares what R[ ] says in relation to health to be 'ludicrous', as was his opinion with regard to the habitableness of a building like Myers' on 'the driest of dry March days'. States that he likes the lines to Stanley much, but claims still to have doubts about 'the "[Sceptic] [ ]" '. Expresses his [and NS'] desire to see Myers [and his wife], and asks when they will come to visit. Asks him if he would like his [and NS'] furniture 'sent to Q. H. Mansions', and asks him about his preference as regards the colour of seats of chairs. .
1 doc.

31 Mar [ ]

186

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. In relation to 'the guarantee', states that he will take his share, 'and could probably persuade AS Balfour if not Rayleigh. Thinks that Crookes and Well[ ] 'are too poor.' Declares that he does not want to have to pay Paddock's damages for breach of contract. Does not believe that it will be considered that there were adequate grounds the breach. Wishes that he thought otherwise 'for Eva's sake' and theirs. Invites Myers to come on Saturday to talk it and other things over. Reports that he has sent off his last copy, but is 'still overwhelmed with labours.' Is condidering going to town at the end of the following week, and asks Myers if he shall be there. .
1 doc.

n.d.

187

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Has decided not to go to Newcastle, mainly because he does not want to cut himself off from Terling 'till the last moment, having made the arrangement.' Arranges to go to Myers at [Hellsteads] 'on Monday 17th', unless he hears from Terling first. Asks Myers to explain HS' behaviour to the former's mother and uncle. Tells him to write to the enclosed address [not included] if he is disposed to go to Newcastle alone. States that Mrs Burns does not know the names of the mediums, but says that she believes that they are private. Also sends a [piece] of last [Medium] [not included] that may interest Myers. .
1 doc.

n.d.

188

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for the report, 'which is going to be pasted in'. Reports that Symonds has written him 'a cheerful letter', with the news that 'the doctor holds out hopes of a cure when the winter is over.' Also states that Symonds asks HS to tell Myers 'that he now understands, and hopes he will write'. Adds that a clergyman from Girton called at his house, hoping to find Myers; 'it being so much pleasanter to settle things by a Personal Interview'. .
1 doc.

[13 Nov 1877]

189

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he [and NS] cannot go to Cheltenham as his brother William and the latter's wife are due to visit them, and then they are to go to the Symonds'. States that they must put off their arrival at Newcastle 'till the 2d: in order to s[ ] a day at Lincoln'. Reports that Edward White Benson is to be the new bishop of Truro. Asks Myers how he has got on with D[ ] 'in the intervals...of reading Mahaffy's reply!' Asks him to tell him 'how Jebb takes it'. .
1 doc.

n.d.

190

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Hopes that Myers' 'T. will stir the Glasgow people to the core of their [ ] hearts. Refers to the arrangements for 'the seances with the girls, and asks Myers to inform the latter, Gurney and the Marshalls. In relation to Mrs Hardy asks him to arrange as he likes for the following week. With regard to [Parkes], states that he is 'not much disposed to go in, unless [they] can secure an amateur photographer who is [also] zealous investigator.' .
1 doc.

15 Jun [ ]

191

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that the 'Newcastle business' is 'rather complicated.' Sends three items [not included]: 'a copy of the agreement, marking a new clause that was never submitted to [him]', Blake's letter explaining the agreement, and a letter from Bell, the magistrate. Explains that the day he parted from Myers a letter arrived from Bell, asking him to defer signing the agreement until he had seen him in town, but that it was too late to see him and so he telegraphed to him to write, and Bell sent 'the enclosed'. Gurney and HS have decided to defer the final settlement until they go to Newcastle again, 'but meanwhile make a provisional arrangement for February, sending a cheque for the month.' States that he has secured the mediums for three dates. Asks Myers to send him his views on the matter. Does not think they can possibly accept the new clause. .
1 doc.

31 Jun [ ]

192

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him [for his letter]. Declares that he trusts that Myers' impression of Mrs F[ay] to be 'the true one', and undertakes to try to clear her behaviour of suspiciousness as far as possible, if 'R' asks his advice. Asks Myers if he would like 'R' 'in the other business' if he won't go in for Mrs Fay'. States that he has asked Butcher to sound Leaf. Asks who is the Newcastle party, and how Myers proposes to commence the negotiations. Asks when 'the Indescribable' will appear again in public. Reports that there is a Professor Palmer [in Cambridge] 'who says he can do all her tricks: and has promised [him] that he will...' States that he wishes to go once more 'and see what they are.' .
1 doc.

n.d.

193

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Admits that he should have suggested precisely what Myers proposes when he [HS] wrote last, 'only [he] thought there might be a party at 23 [H] Sq.' Declares that '[Leweses] in same week with Ghosts...would be an outrage.' Reports that Gurney is getting 'all right', and has played tennis. Announces that he dined in hall. .
1 doc.

7 May [ ]

194

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that the 'Shakespeare of [their] age' [Mrs Lewes] has sent the 'enclosed' [not included], and asks Myers to return it. Looks forward to seeing Myers 'on Saturday.' Regrets that Browning 'does not give satisfaction', and confesses to being partly responsible, as he 'approved in a general way Browning's plea'. Claims to be 'rather vague as to [his] notions of teaching history by letter.' Declares Myers' pupils' letter to be 'very interesting, but states that it would 'somewhat perplex' him to answer it straightforwardly. Remarks that Taine 'certainly does overdo his philopaganism', and that he [HS] 'should administer Renan [suppressing his name]...' With regard to Lady Amberley states that he once saw her and thought she showed off and expected him to do the same too much. Claims that he has to be 'in unusually high spirits to feel pleasantly stirred by this variety of the neo-feminine type. .
1 doc.

6 Feb [ ]

195

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he [and NS] have read Myers' letter 'with [thinking] interest', and remarks that '[t]he plot thickens into density quite unexpected.' Feels that he [HS] 'certainly must give S. some more trial.' Asks Myers to arrange for the following Wednesday. States that he shall be in town on Tuesday, but has proposed to go with [Hutton] then. Adds 'unless [Myers] and H[ ] have found him out [that day]'. .
1 doc.

n.d.

196

Henry Sidgwick to [F.W.H. Myers]. Asks his opinion on 'R's suggestion', and states that whatever is done should be done quickly Claims that the question is 'whether Yorke would get into a scrape if Miss Alderson was instructed to ask [Nilsen] about it. .
1 doc.

n.d.

197

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that Butcher has suggested that Walter Leaf would like to join Myers' concern. Claims that he 'would be admirable in every thing except youth', and is 'very thoughtful, clear, unimpassioned; and his father swims in Gold.' Asks for Myers' opinion. .
1 doc.

n.d.

198

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he could not have 'a last word' with Myers the previous night, and explains that he had to 'bolt suddenly in order not to keep the Archaeologist waiting.' Hopes that, from what he said about Rayleigh, Myers does not think that HS should trust Rayleigh's or anyone's report of the phenomena more than Myers'. Explains that Rayleigh is more useful for his special purpose of convincing his p[ ] of the world'. Believes that 'the matter had better stop' if Rayleigh sends a very decided negative, but that if he is doubtful and Myers thinks HS could influence him, he would be willing to write to tell him that he is 'only prevented from joining by the personal dislike entertained for [him] by the medium', but that this does not affect his personal impression of her trustworthiness. .
1 doc.

n.d.

199

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he finds his letter 'profoundly interesting', and adds 'Poor Child!' in relation to its contents. Remarks that the only apparent merit of the 'C___l was a semblance of vulgar decency and respectability that seemed to hang about him.' Is unable to go and see her on Tuesday as he cannot leave Cambridge till the 4.30 train. Announces that on Tuesday 'this Nightmare of a Printing Press will be off [his] breast', but that he shall still be busier than usual in various ways. Expresses a desire to see Myers. States that he is thinking of being in town 'on Sunday the 27th'. Adds that he would be very glad to go to Cheltenham at Christmas, 'unless Sp[ ] should seem to indicate very clearly a [ ] of duty elsewhere: [which] is impossible.'.
1 doc.

n.d.

200

Henry Sidgwick to [ ]. Page headed 'PRO PATRIA'. Hopes that the addressee is coming up on Tuesday to the meeting of Fellows. Declares that it is 'a crisis in the history of the College.' Wishes for the scheme to pass, but thinks that it needs important alterations, 'which ought to be urged at this meeting on the 11th.' Lists the changes - with regard to staff, teaching posts and pensions within the College - that he believes ought to be made. .
1 doc.

n.d.

201

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he is resigning his fellowships after the next election, and intends to stay in Cambridge to lecture. Believes this to be 'a good thing on the whole - assuming that the College is not at present likely to take pains to get a really good teacher of Philosophy.' Explains why he had not taken such steps before. Asks what shall be said of the man 'who cares only for the highest things, and to those cannot attain?' [Note in Myers' hand: 'quotation from letter of mine to Noel. I was then a Christian.'] Tells Myers to read ' "Ludibria Lunae" ', which is 'original and of it's [sic] kind masterly', and whose intellectual content is 'beneath contempt.' .
1 doc.

11 Jul 1869

202

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he shall not see Myers. Announces that he is probably to leave the Lakes on 1 September. Reports on the weather, and relates that they lunched 'on the Island' and saw some cousins [of Myers], 'especially Miss Theodosia', who quite impressed HS's mother. States that Trevelyan is [in Penrith], and that he is to be married in a month. Reports that AS 'is very exultant in Norway', and that he himself is to go to Cambridge 'to make ready the Bathing against [Myers'] Bowling in November'. Hopes to see the latter then. Is unsure as to where he shall be living.] Reports that it is likely that he will get C.H. Pearson 'to lecture on History in Trin. Coll.' Asks if Myers liked Mrs Kitchener; declares that she is 'at Rugby somewhat of a symbol or a Banner.' Note [in Myers' hand]: 'I examined for the Moral Science Tripos in Nov/69. HS coached men for [ ]' .
1 doc.

[Aug 1869]

203

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thinks that it would be difficult to find a replacement for Myers in the Moral Science Tripos [in which Myers examined]. Advises him to write to HS or some other member of the Moral Science Board as soon as he has made a decision. [Note in Myers' hand: 'I thought of going to Australia with the dying Ch[ ] Taylor']. Declares that he is curious to see Macmillan. [Part of letter cut out and some words obscured at this point.] [Note in Myers' hand: ' "Ludibria Lunae" '.] In relation to Courthope, thinks that he should not have recommended Myers to read it. Claims that he did not write consciously as an advocate, and that the subject of the satire irritated him. As regards Noel asserts that he wrote 'with a positively painful effort to be rigidly impartial'. Discusses his attitude to writing reviews. Suggests that if it be true that Myers cannot write a novel it is because he does not care enough 'about little things, and therefore [does] not observe them enough.' Asks him to tell him the author of 'Monsieur Madame et [B�b�]' when he writes. .
1 doc.

11 Sep 1869

204

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Acknowledges receipt of two of Myers' letters, and declares that he was 'much delighted' with his praise. [Note in pencil: 're article on Clough { }'.] Claims that it ought to be fair, as he had taken pains to be precise in relation to the subject. Refers to Myers' accusation of HS 'praising too ureservedly' as a critic. Refers also to Courthope's work. Discusses Myers' sonnets, which he claims to enjoy, and makes some critical comments thereon. Remarks that the third one seems 'to combine to a great degree the exquisiteness of Tennyson with that of Christina Rossetti...' Undertakes to write again. States that he is 'busy canvassing for Jebb', and asks Myers to go up [to Cambridge] to vote for him on the following Tuesday week. [Note in Myers' hand: 'As Public Orator - Jebb was elected Nov. 2/69. I went up to vote.'] .
1 doc.

24 Oct [1869]

205

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to Myers' intention to write a poem addressed to HS 'de rebus divinis.' Claims that this would interest and gratify him, but wishes to make clear his religious views, of which he fears Myers is not completely aware. Claims that if Clough had not lived and written he [HS] 'should probably be now exactly where he was', and that he 'can neither adequately rationalize faith, nor reconcile faith and reason, nor suppress reason.' Discusses his attitude to religion, faith and atheism. Claims not to feel 'the passionate personal yearnings' that Myers puts into his verse. States that he has read Myers' poems through again, and remarks on 'the combination of great freshness...of feeling with finished [elastic] stateliness of style.' [Part of the letter appears to have been torn out.] [Note in another hand: 'Written from somewhere in Germany']. .
1 doc.

26 Jun [187 or 1870?]

206

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Urges Myers to print his poetry, referring to some minor objection he has to some of the contents of the [two sonnets], which 'both seem faultlessly magnificent in composition.' Confirms that Mrs Venn is ill, and explains that that is why he is 'lecturing for V. on Logic.' Reports that when he last heard of [ ] 'there was reported no hope', and states that he has not heard for a day or two. Remarks that it will be very hard to replace him. Adds that he does not like the title [of the sonnets], and that the 'W. and S....are both so peculiar.' .
1 doc.

[Feb 1870]

207

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he shall be delighted to write Myers' autobiography, but adds that he must see a good deal of him to do it well. Hopes that he is coming to visit soon. Remarks that Venn seemed to expect him 'in an official capacity' in the neighbourhood. Refers to Myers' letter, which he deems to be 'very interesting', and claims to be 'impressed by the tranquil objectivity of [his] descriptions.' [Part of the letter torn out at this point.] Declares that he feels terribly igNSnt of the whole subject, and claims that he does not believe in deliberate choice in love. States that when he was 'young and [ ]' he used to repeat to himself the end of Iphigenia's prayer [by Goethe] 'for wholesome warning'. Quotes some lines. Refers to Myers' work and inquires whether it leads to a permanency. Asks him to tell his [Myers'] mother that he [HS] is '[temporarily] supplied with a President of [his] "Hall" ', Miss Clough having promised to start them. The latter is to come for one or two terms, and HS is still looking for her successor. Reports that he is now examining houses. Complains that '[t]his whole matter' takes up so much of his time, but believes that it is worthwhile. States that he is 'forced more and more into involuntary antagonism with Miss Davies', and reports that she wrote to him recently 'and mentioned affably that [he] was the serpent that was eating out her vitals.' Reports that he saw [ ] [deleted] 'the other day' in Cambridge, and now regrets 'that she could not come.' Declares that she is 'so very [ ] [ ]' [deleted], and understands why, under some circumstances she might strike some people as 'unconciliatory.' Sends greetings to Myers' mother, to whom he is very grateful for 'her exertions' on his [and others'] behalf. Refers to J.A. S[ymonds'] poem. .
1 doc.

[May or Jun 1871]

208/1.

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that a lady, with whom he is acquainted from his younger days when they were both 'in a Society for mutual improvement by means of correspondence' has written a paper 'on the Advisability of Educating Rural Young Women by means of Correspondence', and that the paper has been submitted to him. States that he has undertaken to try and organise 'a system of Education by Post, preparatory...for the C[ambridge] Examinations', and relating to [Cambridge] lectures. Wishes to ask Myers, as Superintendent of English for Home Study' what his colleagues and pupils are likely to think of this scheme, the main points of which he outlines. Reports that he has just been staying with 'Bibbys' at Liverpool. Claims to enjoy talking to Miss Bibby, and does not 'at all dislike Mr and Mrs.' Declares that he wishes that 'people who do not read books would have always the courage of their unliterary convictions, like Jack Perkins of Downing College.' Reports that he has been 'attending a North of [England] Council Meeting and making observations on women.' Remarks that they 'have not quite enough practical selfassertion at the right place and time, and hence are more apt to nurse small jealousies than men.' Declares himself to be 'in an ultra-philosophic humour', due to having mislaid his portmanteau. Reports that he is '[obambulating] the Irish Channel, or circumambulating the Great [Orme's] Head, to keep off h[ay] f[ever].' .
1 doc.

25 Jun [1871]

208/2

Henry Sidgwick to [F.W.H. Myers]. [Fragment of letter]. Declares that the addressee's letter 'is very interesting', and that he should like to hear more. Claims that he quite understands what his correspondent says about not being able to care for the opinions of others. Announces that Miss Bibby is going to accommodate him in Liverpool, where he is to go soon 'to cooperate [in] Movement in some manner.' States that he shall not be [in Cambridge] in July, but might stay for a night or two if his correspondent were to be there. Announces that he shall be at Llandudno 'till 3rd, Rugby till 9th and in Yorkshire towards the end of the month.' .
1 doc.

n.d.

209

Henry Sidgwick to [F.W.H. Myers]. [Fragment of letter]. Undertakes to write about the addressee's book sometime. Reports that there is a review in the Pall Mall Gazette of that day '[26]', which is 'careful, considerate, instructive and only inappreciative because totally unsy=mpathetic'. Regrets to hear that his correspondent is ' "devoting [himself] to the Muse" ', because, he claims, his genius 'does not want this devotion', being lyrical and not epic or dramatic, and because his 'mixture of vehemence and curiosity would make [him] a valuable politician.' [.
1 doc.

[1870]

210

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he intends to go to Cambridge on Sunday or Monday [2 or 3 October]. He will be 'engaged in arranging female education' that week, and the following week 'shall probably have one or two pupils.' Invites Myers to come. Refers to Rhoades poems and to 'Buchanan's Book of [ ]', both of which he gives his opinion of. Claims that the Spectator has treated Myers 'capriciously', and does not understand it. Adds that '[p]eople [at Rugby] seem still to cherish a Gallows in their souls.' .
1 doc.

Sep 1870

211

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Undertakes to mention Myers' wishes in relation to the Moral Science Examination. Does not know 'who the other two will be.' States that Mayor has been applied to. Is torn between 'a desire to get a good man and to do honour to the Tripos by getting a M. Sc. firstclass-man.' Refers to Rossetti's sonnets, and claims that he discovered [in Rossetti] 'the "missing link" between Swinburne and Christina Rossetti.' Discusses Mozley's article on Modern poets in the 'Quarterly', and claims that he is the first man 'who has spoken adequately of Clough.' Reports that there is a new edition of the latter in the press. States that he has not seen Noel since he reviewed him. Remarks that 'that review has turned out unfortunate', and that 'Hutton likes that poems and therefore would have reviewed them...with his goldest pen.' Claims that he could not have said anything stronger in [Noel's] favour, and does not agree with Myers about the book. Declares that Markby 'is a little over enthusiastic about female prospects' and believes himself that 'the question is in a hopeful state.' Claims that 'there is no real conservatism anywhere among educated men.' Adds his opinion in relation to the use of 'esquire'. .
1 doc.

3 May [1870 or 1869?]

212

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers favourably to one of Myers' [poems]. Discusses its form and content; remarks that there is 'nothing of the "tameness" ' in it that he perceived in Myers' last [poem], and that he seems 'to have dropped the grave mature simplicity [which] Symonds etc admired so much in the last'. Refers to Goethe, whom Myers quotes in the work. Claims not to understand 'the last paragraph before the rhapsody', and states that he has 'jotted down a sort of abstract of the poem up to that point' to show Myers how it puzzles him. Announces that he would be happy to go to Eton for a few days after Easter, and that in Passion Week he intends to be vaccinated, which, he claims, he does 'for the sake of mankind.' .
1 doc.

9 Mar 1872

213

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks Myers 'for the pamphlet', whose author HS wishes to discuss with him. While finding 'no attractive characteristicalness in her ideas, he is struck by 'the amazing quantity of her emotional impulsive force...' States that he is glad that Myers' 'plutological lines have fallen to [him] in pleasant places.' Refers to the questions raised by Myers, to which HS wishes to give an ethical solution. Adds that he always feels that he should like to be as many of 'the right sort of people' as possible. Reports that the headmaster ['Stokoe, late of Reading'] of the renovated grammar school at Reading has just called on him wanting a second master, 'mathematician to teach some science, salary �200-300 a year + a boarding house', and suggests that Cumming might like it. Tells Myers to write to the latter if he thinks it worthwhile. .
1 doc.

2 Aug 1871

214

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Discusses Myers' intention to take up medicine. Warns that it could be 'too great an investment of time and nervous energy. [Part of letter deleted by Myers?]. Remarks that there seems to be much to be said for the subject, but that it does not seem likely 'to lead to much poetry'. Of a poem by Myers about Alfred de M[ ], remarks that he 'cannot quite divine the evolution of thought in the whole piece...' A note [in Myers' hand] states that he put an end to the poem 'on the receipt of this criticism.' Announces that he intends to go to Hallsteads on the following Saturday for a day or two. States that his book is 'at a standstill. Reports that Roden Noel claims that 'all people whose taste has not been perverted by academic education regard him as Coming Poet', and so he can't stand HS anymore. [Partly deleted note by Myers refers to Roden Noel] .
1 doc.

29 Aug 1871

215

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Urges him to 'come up'. Reports that 'there is a great scheme of tutorial reform, one part of which comes on for voting.' States that he shall be up examining for minor schools. Has come to the conclusion that the 'I.P. of I. is exceedingly good', but thinks that 'a p. in classical style as an ancient Topic should not be published in a Shilling Mag.' .
1 doc.

Nov 1870

216

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. States that 'Pearson is open to the offer about Saffron Walden', and wishes to hear details. Warns him not to come to Cambridge on 20 [November], unless he would like to meet the Ad eundem. Praises Myers' poem, but admits that he has not altogether made up his mind about it. States that he would like to hear more about the French Literature Scheme. Reports that [at Cambridge] they are 'thinking of nothing but war and academic reform.' .
1 doc.

[5] Nov 1870

217

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has received his letter, and declares that he would much like to come and see him at Cheltenham. Announces that he is going to Rugby for a week, and must be in Cambridge from 1 October, 'partly for ladies' lectures, partly to catch zealous pupils who are to be examined in November, and dialectically improve them before term begins.' States that he read his poem, 'Ammergau', in [Macmillan's Magazine], and declares that it did not please him quite as much as 'the Roman poem', but that he liked the close exceedingly. Reports that he returned from Germany earlier than he had intended because of the war. Declares that his sympathies have turned round lately. Asserts that 'there is something almost attractive about French conceit' and that the image of a victorious German is unappealing. Fears that they shall miss each other at Rugby, and mentions that he may go down there again for a day or two if he finds the time, but envisages that they shall meet 'in town'. Offers to introduce him to Hutton. Remarks that 'the Spectator is not particularly good to write for as the editors do so much themselves'. [Note in Myers' hand: 'I thought at that time of taking to writing reviews'.] .
1 doc.

19 Sep [1871]

218

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Asks for information concerning Myers' coming to Cambridge, 'The Prospects of Poetry' and 'The Probabilities of Medicine etc etc'. Declares that they have much to discuss, HS having failed to write due to the unrealised expectation of seeing Myers at Rugby. Reports that he has to teach history that term, 'no successor having turned up to Pearson: and Cambridge breeding no healthy young resident and locking him up with a Hume.' Asks if he has seen Noel 'in the Dark Blue'. Suggests that he may have been ashamed to send it to Myers, as 'some of the polemic is almost personal'. Declares that it is very well written, 'except the polemical part', and states that he writes better prose than verse. Reports that Noel nearly quarrelled with him 'for reluctantly avowing that [HS] did not consider him an equal of Swinburne.' States that Noel 'thinks that the Verbal School [S. Rossetti, etc - non sine te] have been found out'. Refers to 'Edinburgh' of July, and the Contemporary [Review] of October as having evidence to support this theory. States that Noel also thinks that 'Buchanan and R.N are going to be chaired instead by a mutable but at length appreciative public.' Refers to 'a certain Mutual Admiration league' between Noel and Symonds. Believes that the latter's poetry could be successful, 'if he could only impassion himself about a good subject.' Asks Myers to send his last epic. Tells him to read Noel's article. Sends his regards to Myers' mother. Announces that his second correspondence circular is soon to appear. Reports that Miss Clough is in Cambridge, that the house is 'getting on', and that there will be five [women] there that term. .
1 doc.

10 Oct 1871

219

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he is unable to accompany him to Paris at Christmas, due to time constraints. [Note in Myers' hand to the effect that he had invited him to go.] States that he must write one or two books in the course of the following two or three years, and explains that due to his slowness in progress he must work during the vacation. Claims that he is getting into a state of 'Book on the Brain', but that instead of one, there are at least three. Invites Myers to come and see him, and claims that he has the effect of making him feel 'Wise and Good.' Maintains that if he said that to [Roden] Noel, 'he would think [HS] meant in contrast with himself'. .
1 doc.

28 Oct 1871

220

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he would like to alter the testimonial 'in two points', if Myers would send it to him. Hopes that he is 'coming up' [to Cambridge]. Reports that he is 'suffering from much depression of spirits from various causes...' Refers to Myers' statements on philanthropy. Believes that 'what are called the Rights of Conscience are being caricatured to a strange degree', and declares that 'it is a relief to find Huxley avowing that he does not accept "the modern doctrine of intention".' Refers to the Pall Mall Gazette and Saturday Review, stating that 'it is ridiculous for these journals to give themselves airs as if they had argued and the women merely declaimed - the reverse is much more true.' States that his idea of philanthropy is that 'it is a noble profession or career rather than a Virtue.' Would like to know Myers' opinion of Octavia Hill if he ever gets a chance to meet her. .
1 doc.

30 [or 31] Oct 1871

221

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to Myers' visit to him, which was 'delightful and salutary'. Wishes that he had more wisdom to impart to those whom he loves. Of the act of choosing good, asserts that it is not as in Kant's view the only good thing in men, but does himself think it 'a great good.' States that Myers' narrative 'is of thrilling interest', and declares that he has no doubt that Myers was 'the right man for the situation', and refers to the 'Testimonial' [not included]. [Note in Myers' hand explaining that the above-mentioned narrative concerned 'a Schoolmistress who had got into a mess.'] Admits to being impressed 'at the thought of the amount of emotional electricity generated by [Myers'] passage through these feminine atmospheres', and offers to idealise him 'into a sort of Genius of Flirtation'. Quotes from an unpublished poem of Myers'. [Myers quotes more extensively from the poem, beginning with the lines: 'Few are the Friends of Women; and they see On many a cheek the rose of amity,...'] Thanks him for his generous gift, and promises to tell of 'it's [sic] ultimate destination.' Sends greetings to Myers' mother, to whom he sends circulars [not included]. .
1 doc.

20 Nov [1871]

222

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Explains his failure to write to him lately; he has been involved in 'memorializing Gladstone: entreating him to investigate and reform [Cambridge University] without unnecesary preludes and prefaces.' Reports that they collected one hundred and ten signatures, but that it fell to him, who has come to be regarded as 'Perpetual chief clerk and servant' of the Liberal Party in Cambridge, to collect them. Declares that he thought Myers' circular 'excellent'. [Note in Myers' hand explains that the circular is of the Corresponding Society; 'Cambridge men teach young women [by] correspondence. Each sent out a circular to his pupils.'] Tells Myers to estimate his expenditure of time and trouble on the project. Thanks him for [James] Saumarez' letter, which, he claims, disposes him to accept Jebb's insight that Saumarez' nature resembles Myers'. [Notes in Myers' hand: 'I hope there is some truth in this', and 'letter later nto forthcoming - consisted principally of good advice....'] Announces that AS is to come [to Oxford] the following day. States that now that [AS and others] 'have got their Board ['the "promising Body" ', according to Myers], the puzzle is how to fashion it into an offensive [ ].' In relation to the women installed in Cambridge under his scheme for female education, whom he refers to as his 'Garden of Flowers' [and referred to by Myers as HS' 'harem or collection of girls reading at Cambridge'], reports that 'Miss Kennedy yearns to attend Wards [Clough] Catholic ritual by herself on Sunday night, and [HS and others] refuse...' Predicts that 'Restraint of Liberty' for the women will be a problem in the future. Refers also to 'Emily Davies and the inevitable complication of educational machinery'. Announces that he intends to go to J.A. Symonds 'on the 26th', and is glad that he will also see Myers. In relation to Middlemarch, claims that he feels he could have planned the story much better. Believes that the ending 'could have been made just as tragic.' .
1 doc.

20 Dec 1871

223

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Encloses a postal order [not included], admitting that he forgot to repay him. Asks him to inform him how the interview [Myers adds: 'with Miss Drew'] concludes. Declares that he liked what Myers recited 'just before parting'; [from 'a piece called "The Passing of Youth" ', according to Myers]. Believes that Myers receives letters from HS 'with a certain dread.' States that he seems to himself 'like some statesman Macaulay speaks of whom neither etc nor etc nor etc [say study of Hegel and Vice-Presidency of F.C.U] had altered from the dreaming schoolboy that he was at 16.' Writes in verse, beginning with the lines 'What am I An infant crying for the moon...', which, he claims is inspired by Tennyson. Claims that one advantage of being a philosopher by profession is that 'one has very drastic remedies for egotism very ready to hand'. .
1 doc.

15 Feb 1872

224

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he is going to London on the following Thursday for a few days, mainly to read at the [British] Museum. Inquires as to whether Myers will be there. States that he intends 'to go southward visiting and to visit on 28 [March]. Tells Myers to expect a letter from him from London if he does not see him. .
1 doc.

Mar 1872

225

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Remarks on the fact that Myers has had 'recourse to the strong stimulant of the Sensation Novel', and urges him 'to continue the Tale of the Fair Tasmanian, at least for one more chapter.' Reports that he has been waiting to hear from his candidate Stirling, 'who is apparently hesitating' because, HS suspects, 'the pay is too small to tempt him. [Note in Myers' hand relates that Stirling is 'the man whom H.S. thought fittest to be Professor of Moral Philosophy at Cambridge - a post then vacant and for [which Myers] urged H.S. to stand']. HS declares that if Stirling's case is hopeless he himself 'shall probably stand'. Believes that Venn should be given the post 'if Stirling is out of the question'. Discusses Venn's and his [HS'] relative merits in relation to the post. Declares that he shall probably leave Cambridge if either Venn or Pearson is elected, as he wishes to concentrate himself on 'Practical Philosophy'. Refers to his interview with 'the Laureate', who, he claims impressed him by his 'great kindliness and simplicity, also his sensitiveness to the opinion of inferior creatures like Simcoxes male and female.' [Note in Myers' hand explains that HS refers to G.A. Simcox and his sister.] Relates that he [HS] attempted to flatter the poet by comparing him to Milton, and that the former 'insisted that the blank verse of Keats and Shelley was good in it's [sic] way'. Remarks that he does not think Mrs Cameron suits him, 'though he is amused with her. Announces that he must turn to his female correspondence. .
1 doc.

[Apr 1872]

226

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Discusses the candidates for the Professorship of Moral Philosophy: himself, Venn and Stirling, stating that the latter is his choice over Venn. Considers the advantages of his not standing, in order to improve Stirling's chances of obtaining the post. Asks if Myers told him 'to address Windsor Castle', and asks him to pardon his negligence. [Note in Myers' hand explains that the reference to Windsor Castle relates to the fact that Myers had written to HS from there 'on the paper belonging to the place']. .
1 doc.

Apr 1872

227

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that 'S[ymonds]' is with him [in Freshwater]. Refers to 'the matter' of which Myers knows[Symond's homeoerotic poetry]. [Above information contained in a paragraph that has been crossed out in ink]. Admits to finding it very difficult to answer Myers' letter, as he feels that the latter expects from him 'Strictest Science' in his reply. Remarks on Myers' perceived insistence on certainty in answers. Claims to have 'as much sympathy...as it is possible for one in whom Egoism and altruism are combined so differently.' Discusses his and Myers' differences in character. Declares that 'Victorious Analysis paralyses impulse...', and that the two difficult thing that must be done [by HS, Myers and others] are 'to choose in a certain spiritual twilight and obscurity, the noble and the good and refuse the evil and base: and...to make Will and rational purpose supply the place of impulse.' Reports that they have seen 'the Laureate who was tres bon and recited to [them] Boadices...' States that S[ymonds] has urged him to tell Myers 'that May Princess is positively the Loveliest Girl etc'; declares that he agrees. [Note in Myers' hand declares that he thinks that this letter 'is the most interesting' he ever received from HS]. .
1 doc.

[Apr 1872]

228

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that Stirling is not to stand [for the post of Professorship of Moral Philosophy], and that therefore he [HS] shall. Predicts that if either Venn or Pearson are elected, his days in Cambridge 'will be brief'. Tells Myers to write and give him 'the next chapter of the romance.' [Note in Myers' hand suggests that this could be a reference to ' "The Fair Tasmanian" ']. Reports that '[p]oor Jebb is in influenza in Ireland.' Reports that Miss Thackeray was very hospitable to them at [Freshwater], and describes how she acted in her role as hostess. Adds that 'as the immortal Swinburne said to [him], a man's Best is his real Self and it is only a Philistine who judges him by anything else'. .
1 doc.

[21 Apr 1872]

229

MS verse, entitled 'The Modern Ulysses. containing the lines: 'This is my PEARSON....To him I leave my pupils and my books: Well-loved of me, discerning to fulfil. His toil, by Arts ingenious to make mild The ragged student, and thro' SAFE DEGREES To thrust him...' .
1 doc.

[Apr 1872?]

230

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Asks him when he intends to come to Cambridge. Reminds him that his card says the following week, but that his letter to 'Mrs V. said 18th.' Announces that he [HS] goes to Rugby on 11 [May] to steep himself in 'H.Hayman.' Refers to an un-named matter of mutual concern, and states that Birks also 'has a work of Ethics in his desk.' In relation to his failure to be appointed to the post of Professorship of Moral Philosophy, claims that he regrets 'the gentle external compulsion that it would have given.' Thinks that he must stay in Cambridge 'at least one year more: and most probably for ever.' Believes that he is ill-adapted for Cambridge society. Claims that he thought Pearson was going to be chosen for the post. Regrets that Myers is 'so decided about "Old Kensington" ', and claims that he himself is hesitating. States that 'W.M.T. had a way of boring one with long introductions.' Adds ' "Christ[ ] North" no good?' .
1 doc.

[May 1872]

231

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that Myers' letter is 'rather a relief' to him; had been afraid that the latter might make himself content 'to choose with a dangerous suppression of true instinct.' [Note in Myers' hand explains that HS refers to the fact that he will not, after all, marry Miss Drew; HS had taken Myers' account of her 'a little too serious', and he claims that there never was any chance of his making 'a mercenary marriage.'] HS declares that nevertheless it would delight him to hear that Myers was 'prosperously betrothed'. Admits to having 'an almost morbid dread of marriage as the termination of romance'. In relation to the election of Birks as Professor of Moral Philosophy, thinks that it is 'not as bad as it looks'. Claims that it has been the custom in Cambridge to consider the Professorship as a mere ornament and dignity, and that Birks 'is a man of force and acumen, and has written books that show these qualities'. Believes that Birks' election fixes him [HS] in Cambridge 'for some years more.' States that the reason why he does not like Myers discussing him with any friend is that he is, he claims, 'ashamed at any Superior Person's attention being [ ] to a subject so unimportant to the Universe'; 'So do it as much as you like', he adds. Refers to Flower, and to the fact that he has changed his opinion about him. .
1 doc.

[1 May 1872]

232

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Declares that '[a] Friend hopes that "Fortune" is merely deferred - as also Fame...' [Note in Myers' hand explains this is a reply 'to some mock-heroic lines announcing {Myers'} relinquishment of any project in the Direction of {word deleted}]. Thanks him for the enclosure. Claims to begin gradually 'to have a conception of Flower.' States that he is reading the latter's last novel 'with a painful sense of genius wasted. [Meredith's Harry Richmond] Thinks 'the "Septimus" will [hone] out a fair Hawthorne, not more.' Announces that he expects to hear of Hayman on Saturday from AS'. .
1 doc.

[May 1872]

233

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces his intended movements over the following days, which include remaining in Margate until the following Tuesday, lunching in London, travelling to Harrow, staying with Herbert in London, travelling to Wellington College, staying with Trevelyan at Weybridge, and travelling to Roden Noel. States that after 24 [June] he heads for Cambridge. Asks Myers if he intends to go to Miss Bonham Carter, and hopes that they [HS and Myers] shall meet. Hopes that his ['________'] was effective, and states that he 'found it a pleasant Summer Beverage.' [Note in Myers' hand states that he cannot remember to whom HS refers]. Claims that Myers' 'emotional dissipation' fills him with 'entertainment, envy, amazement and certain sympathetic gloomy forebodings...' In relation to his work on philosophy, states that he thinks he has 'made a print or two about Justice', but that the relation of the s[exes] still puzzles him. Asks if the permanent movement of civilised man 'towards the Socialism of force, or the Socialism of persuasion [Comte], or individualism [H. Spencer]?' .
1 doc.

[June 1872]

234

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to a previous letter [by himself], which was 'the happiest quaintest combination of pathos and fun'. Claims that he liked [Myers'] verses, and 'those in [nomine] F.M' he liked the best. [Note in Myers' hand explains that this is a reference to the 'first poem about Gertie.'] Refers to his 'Heinesque piece'. Also mentions that he had expressed a wish that Myers 'would traverse the globe in the company of J[ames] S[aumarez]'. Claims that he is trying to work, but is not making much progress. States that he shall be delighted to see Myers on 23 [August], but claims that going to Cornwall 'would be too patent a confession of defeat.' Adds that '[Mr] Butler is canvassing against Childers, as too contagious, at Pontef[ ].' Financial calculations in an unknown hand on reverse of letter. .
1 doc.

15 Aug [ ]

235

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Doubts that Myers' company 'was a good preparation for either solitude or philosophy', but would like him to come again [to Margate] on the following Saturday. Describes his hotel room and its view, and is certain that accommodation could be found nearby for Myers. .
1 doc.

26 Jun 1872

236

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that Myers' letter gave him 'a mixture of pleasure and pain'. Complains that he feels more and more unlike his own ideal. In relation to his 'Domestic troubles' [note by Myers explains that this is a reference to his scheme for female education; 'his harem at Cambridge'], confesses that they gave him more amusement than anything else. States that he regards the movement as being 'in the phase of tentatives and experiments...' Claims that he did not intend to blame Miss C[lough]. but rather his 'own want of tact', and adds that '[t]he Scheme is her life at present, and it is so little a piece of [his].' Refers also to Miss Venn, who has been 'simply delightful' in relation to 'the Suspicion affecting [his] character'. Announces that he goes to the seaside - probably Broadstairs - after the Cambridge Examination, for about a fortnight, after which he shall return to Cambridge. States that he shall see Myers on 12 July if possible. Inquires about 'the [S]ecretary for C.A.E.', and declares that his cousin would be delighted to go. Also asks Myers to tell his mother that he [HS] made a speech advocating her views in relation to arithmetic on their Syndicate, and that it was agreed 'to divide the paper into two parts: one of which is to be pass and the other honours...' .
1 doc.

16 Jun [1872]

237

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Regrets that he cannot come to town, due to pressures of work. A review of Herbert Spencer and an article on the Sophists are due in the middle of March. Thinks that he shall be in town on Sunday 30 March, at which time, he claims, he shall have time to meet Mrs H. H[ ]. States that he must give lectures every day the following week. Accepts an invitation to go to Brandon House in April, health permitting. Otherwise he will go to Freshwater, where the air agrees with him, 'and occasional contemplation of the Laureate affords one of the purest pleasures that [their] fallen nature has to give.' States that the editor Leslie Stephen will probably also be there. Declares that he wishes to work on his book as he intends to bring it out after all. Asks Myers to convey his thanks to Lady Monteagle for her kind invitation. Explains that he could not get away on Saturday as 'CS is coming up to discuss academic organisation with [him]'. [Note in Myers' hand explains that this is a reference to 'Sidney Colvin a critic']. Claims that he feels moved to criticise Herbert Spencer somewhat severely, and is 'in fear and trembling' lest he does so igNSntly. .
1 doc.

[Feb 1873]

238

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Explains that he cannot come [to see Myers], as his work on university reform has taken up his time, and he is behind in his work. In relation to 'the "project" ', claims that he was shaken out of the dream in London in the summer. Claims that he had nearly succeeded in reconciling himself to science, when Myers' letter set him 'spinning again'. Would like to see him at Christmas, but is unsure as to whether he can allow himself 'the pleasure of a regular visit.' Explains that he has promised to go to Symonds some time, 'coinciding with Greens', but that his plans are vague at present. Reports that there is no news from Rugby, and states that 'to say that it is in the agony of a crisis is only to say that H. H. still hangs up his hat in the schoolhouse'. .
1 doc.

[Oct/Nov 1872]

239

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces his return, having read all of Myers' books. Claims to be very glad to have 'attained s[ ] views on Paul de K[ ]'. Asks Myers if he knows what other of his works are worth reading, and states that he quite understands Disraeli's praise of him, and sees his influence on 'D.' a little. Remarks that [Taine] is 'a clever man', but does not like his work. Reports that the Venns have just returned, but that he hasn't seen them. Asks Myers if he thinks that Creighton and Laing would correspond with women [as part of an educational correspondence programme] in English literature. Discusses the need for more money to subsidise 'impecunious governesses', and asks him if he thinks any wealthy person sympathetic to the project would subscribe. Refers briefly to the troubles at Rugby. .
1 doc.

[28 Sep 1872]

240

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his 'thrilling narrative', the hero of which reminds him of 'one of the most contemptible characters in a degraded period of the British drama.' [Note in Myers' hand explains that this is a reference to a story 'about a ballet girl and a Colonel']. Gives a discours on himself and his views of life, in relation to his theory of practice, his theory of his own life, and his own practice. Fears that Myers deviates from 'the Type' in a direction opposite to HS'. Asks him what time he should come to Myers. Announces that he would like to come about 16 [September] for three or four days. States that he shall be very glad 'to meet Miss B.' .
1 doc.

1 Sep 1872

241

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he is grateful to Myers' cousin for her invitation, but explains that he is 'engaged to spend Friday at [Sunninghill], and shall not p[ ] the admiring streets of the metropolis till 9.39 P.M.' [Note in Myers' hand: 'Someone had mockingly called him "the Phoenix".'] States that the following morning he intends to read at the [British] Museum from 9 to 1.30. Suggests that they might meet at the Savile Club or 'Victoria'. .
1 doc.

9 Apr 1873

242

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Claims that he has had spiritual reasons to write to him for a long time, 'but they have all been outweighed by the sort of lethargy of spirit' in which he still lingers. Announces that his plans are nearly fixed, and that he would like to meet him in London. Intends to go there on 24 [July], but is unsure about when he is to visit his sister. Is sorry that Myers could not come to Margate, but confesses that he believes that he does not like the place as much as the previous year. Reports that he struggles on with his little book because he feels that it must be written, and that it will bore him more the more he delays its completion. Asks for Myers' news. Claims to like Symonds' book, but states that it does not give him 'supreme satisfaction.' Announces that he cannot come to London before 21 [July]. Intends to spend August and September in his rooms. .
1 doc.

6 Jul [1873]

243

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he has decided to stay in London 'over Thursday night', and is therefore free to fall in with Myers' plans for that evening. [Note in Myers' hand: 'We went to the Barbican']. Asks him to send him directions to Wellington College Walsingham. Advises Myers as to his engagements and arrangements, or lack thereof, from Wednesday to Friday. Undertakes to write to him from Wellington College. Discusses Myers' poems. .
1 doc.

Jul [ ]

244

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Writes in reply to Myers' last letter, which he had not received when they last met. Confesses to be 'keenly pleased' by Myers' overestimation of him, but fears that he will be found out. Regrets that during the years in which he and Myers have known each other, he [HS] has unwillingly done Myers 'more harm that good' through his 'cold corrosive scepticism'. Claims that Myers' friendship is 'one of the best delights' of his life, and that no difference of opinion can affect this. States that he takes Myers' request seriously, even though it was not meant to be taken so. Is pleased to learn that he have satisfaction, but declines to take all the credit. Inquires as to whether Myers whall be 'at 14 Arl. S. on Tueday morning'. .
1 doc.

[1] Aug 1873

245

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his 'services with the Millionaire.' Reports that they are trying two or three of them. Refers to 'a little circular' to be printed, which he and Miss Clough worked on. Announces that he intends to 'make an attempt on H.H.' as soon as the proofs arrive. Refers to 'another who bears these initials' on whom a Governing Body sat the previous day. Does not know the outcome however. In relation to spirit-rapping, declares that he has the same attitude towards it as he has towards religion, i.e., that 'there is something in it', but does not know what. States that John King is an old friend of his, but that 'as he always came into the dark and talked at random', their friendship refrigerated.' States that he shall be glad to accompany Myers 'on any favourable opportunity.' States that in relation to 'A. there is nothing to tell' and that the 'thing has been deferred for 3 weeks.' Predicts that there will be 'a Homeric conflict...' Claims that he is very affected by what Myers tells him about his cousin and her letter. .
1 doc.

[30 Oct 1873]

246

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Thanks him for his verses, which impressed him very much, apart from the third one, from which, he claims, he does not seem to derive any idea 'except of the girl's complexion.' States that he longs to see Myers. Reports that he has 'simply vegetated brooded and written a page a day of a stupid book', which will appear the following year. Announces AS's intended marriage to a sister of James Wilson of Rugby, whom is described by HS's mother as 'simpleminded and intelligent.' Claims to be curious to see her. Reports that Sidney Colvin told him that the Lewes' 'were not [to be] in the Chiselhurst house till October', and so HS has decided to defer his visit, and mentions 28 September as a possible date. Announces that he goes to Rugby from 22 to 27 September inclusive. Asks Myers to send him a line as to his movements as soon as he arrives. States that he shall stay [in Cambridge] until Monday 22 September, and asks Myers if he will go there, and/or meet him in London on 28 September. Encloses 'AS's Communication' [announcing his impending marriage] [not included], and states that he will never forgive him for not putting it on a postcard. .
1 doc.

12 Sep 1873

247

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he 'went over to [b.m.b.] to arrange with Hall: but found everything settled...through the medium of the Telegraph.' Claims that he 'halfpersuaded' Hall to stay the night '[with the ladies] - holding out the bait of the Great Seeley[;] one of the objects of the poytheistic adoration of the Cross family'. Suggests that if the matter 'comes off' Myers might let HS have Harrison[s] to breakfast, and 'will do lunch on Sunday so as to get Bowens.' Refers to Myers' last letter as 'thrilling', and expresses the wish to speak to him. Claims that he himself is 'in gloom and inertia.' Asks Myers if he will stay over on Monday. Announces that he goes over to dine with Hall on Sunday, coming back on Monday morning 'with the ORATOR...' Remarks that there are 'several good concise points about the Conservative reaction.' Asks about Myers' plans to come [to Cambridge] on Friday. Adds: 'Hans Gladstone led a Barty Vere ish dat Bary now?', and asks '[h]ow much has C_l_l P_s_ had to pay for the privilege of not sitting in Parliament'. .
1 doc.

17 Feb [1874

248

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Announces that he must lecture on Friday, and asks him if he can 'tell' at 3.30. Complains about going to Oxford on Saturday. Thinks that he shall be in London about the middle of December. Adds that '[t]he highsouled merchant has responded in a highsouled manner' and that they 'are now in the category of [_____]'. .
1 doc.

[15] Nov 1873

249

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Hs come to the conclusion that his interference 'in [ ] Showers would do more harm than good.' Asks Myers to mention, when he writes, that HS has 'no doubt...as to the genuineness of her ghosts.' Discusses the carrying out of tests at her house, where he would rather go 'as a Confiding Spiritualist, on the chance of feeling Lenore's ONE TOE'. States that he is 'rather inclined to go in for N[ ] now to see if [they] can get [Cissey]. Announces that he intends to go up to town early on Thursday, and asks Myers if he could lunch at the Savile Club. States that he thinks of 'asking Burns why he wants 100�'. .
1 doc.

8 May [1874]

250

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to Myers' letter. Claims that he 'cannot conceive that any of Time's changes can make [him] forget the pleasure which it has given [him]...' Tells him to do what he thinks is right in relation to [Spirits], and assures him that he will cooperate. Announces that [Kegan] Paul is not coming to stay with him, but is going to stay in King's [College], and that he has invited him to breakfast on Sunday. Asks Myers to be there. Adds that he shall meet 'Mrs R. G. on Tuesday at Venn's, 'and should have embraced her in the bonds etc' if Myers had not warned him .
1 doc.

23 May [1874]

251

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to a s�ance, which he attended the previous night. Reports that the two last sittings were nearly failures and that there were 'only faint appearances at the entrance of cabinet.' Mentions two [spirits]: [Cissy] and Sammy. States that he 'proposed same terms as other media' in relation to [Petty], and announces that he is about to sign the agreement. Refers to another sitting that he attended, involving a box [containing horsehairs] being placed in a drawer. Announces that Gurney is to meet 'the girls' that day, and that they go to Mrs [Whitticks], '[on] Hill Street Rutland Gate till Thursday.' Hopes to meet Myers on Thursday in Queen Anne Street. Reports that [Wedgwood] 'is seriously concerned about [their] proposed seance in Cambridge' and thinks that the Master [of Trinity College] would be supported by public opinion if he were to dismiss HS. Thanks him for AS's letter. .
1 doc.

[end Mar 1875?]

252

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to Gurney's attitude to HS' and Myers' 'spiritualistic investigations.' Announces that he intends to 'take the plunge', but needs a few days' consideration. Claims that he would take, 'as a pis aller, an immortality averaging about as high as the last two days in respect of happiness.' .
1 doc.

18 May [1874]

253

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Note. Reports just having received Myers' letter, for which he thanks him. Undertakes to send him 'a line again for [Myers] to forward to Annie, when there is really anything to say.' Includes the rhyme: 'Grief, joys in Time's strange dance/Interchangeably advance'. Refers to 'an immense amount of business mixed in which the [poets] do not recognise, but which is perhaps useful as a [diluent].' .
1 doc.

[4 Jun 1874]

254

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Tells him not to worry about lodging, as HS is 'after all a Philosopher.' Expresses his preference to sleep over his desire to save money. States that he 'will not fail on Wednesday at 2.30.' Reports that [Charles Kegan] Paul wishes him to dine at the Savile Club to meet a friend of his called O[ ], who is barrister would like to join in in their spiritualistic investigations. Thinks that Myers ought to come along 'in the interests of the Cause'. Asks for Myers' opinion on the matter, and adds that O[ ] 'is a little odd.' Reports that he met James Hinton in Oxford, who said that he also would like to join. Tells Myers to settle for HS to dine at 'S.M.T.' if he likes. .
1 doc.

[Jun 1874]

255

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports his arrival in Newcastle, and his meeting with Miss Fairlamb in Mr Blake's shop, and their subsequent meeting with Miss Wood - both mediums. States that he engaged them for s�ances. States that he likes them both 'from a severely scientific point of view', and finds that they know about Myers' letter, but 'were simply disinclined to go...to an unknown place at the instance of an unknown gentleman.' Suggests that he arranges for the two ladies to come for a fortnight, and asks whether he thinks it is worthwhile, adding 'not if [Myers] take[s] Mrs Fay to Terling.' Refers to the problems relating to his unaccompanied visit to Newcastle; 'that a single individual does not afford a sufficient reservoir of [ ] [force] for materialisations...' Asks if AS gave him HS' message. Explains that he 'conjectured an alliance between Crookes and Greenwood', hoping that the latter would find funds for the spiritualistic endeavour and would have the social advantage, while the former would have the scientific advantage. .
1 doc.

[1874?]

256

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that he is quite willing to enter into negotiations with the Newcastle medium. Asks for more information about her. Confesses that he does not quite like what Myers told him about Mrs Fay, and claims she told Gurney at Brighton that HS 'had behaved to her "like a perfect gentleman" or something of that sort.' Claims also that she is not as frank as she seems. States that he still has perfect faith in her, but that this now depends merely on personal impression, supported by Myers', and Gurney's and Crooke's. Feels that he must now drp her and Mrs [Jencken] out of his ' "Case for Spiritualism" '. Complains about their disagreeableness and 'their persistent and singular frustrations'. Announces that he intends to have some more s�ances with Herne in December, and will join with Myers in the negotiations with Newcastle, 'especially since the Never-failing Crookes is not to appear in the r�le of Triumphant Liberator till the end of January'. Send his regards to Myers' mother, and declares that he shall be very glad to go to Brandon House some time during the F[ ] Season. .
1 doc.

[1874]

257

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that Mrs Jencken has failed as far as their strict test is concerned and is going back to London that day, but may be coming again early in September. Tells Myers to expect him on Monday evening. States that he arrives at Penrith and has written to the landlord of the 'George'. Adds that the baby 'is really a charming infant', and states that he has seen a 'Photo of his writing at the age of 5 months and 11 days'. .
1 doc.

[1874?]

258

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Declares that the 'enclosed' [not included] will explain why he must defer his visit again. Refers to Morley's praise of his book. Sends his love to 'A.', and hopes that she is not going away before he comes. Announces that he is going to Cambridge on the following Thursday. .
1 doc.

[1874?]

259

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Declares Myers' news to be 'excellent'. Asks how long Miss Bibby [a medium] is to stay, and hopes that 'the thing does not act injuriously on her nerves...' Wishes that he were there. Reports that he has seen Crookes and is 'much impressed.' Announces that Herne come to him the following night. Announces also that his decisive interview with Morley about his book is to take place on [the following] Thursday, Friday and Saturday. States that he has forwarded Myers' letter to G[urney]. Asks if he [HS] could go to Myers early the following week 'if this seemed best as regards Terling'. .
1 doc.

3 Aug [1874]

260

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Relates the problems he has had with a female medium, who was 'fatigued and unwell, anxious to rest on Sunday'. Discusses the fact that there had been no formal exception of [her conducting s�ances] on Sundays in the contract, and refers to her manager, and other problems relating to her services. Tells Myers to show the letter to Gurney. Announces that he goes to London again on Monday, then probably to Cambridge, when he shall have to see Clay about his book. Confesses to feeling bad about Macmillan having taken the book on half-profits. States that Macmillan is going to send the proof sheets to John Morley. Reports that he met Mrs Montagu Cookson at dinner at his cousin's, 'and liked her - tho' not so well as Mrs F. H'. .
1 doc.

n.d.

261

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Returns enclosed 'impressive and interesting communications' [not included]. Announces that he is going to town the following weekend for two s�ances with Herne at the Midland Hotel. Determines to stay there for a week if they come to anything, and then to return to Cambridge. Would much like to see Myers. States that he would be willing to go to see Mr Wedgwood 'on Monday morning'. .
1 doc.

[Jul 1874]

262

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Encloses Rayleigh's letter [not included]. Wishes that the latter had asked him to bring Myers to Terling, and suggests that he may yet do so. Claims that Mrs Jencken 'seems about the best medium out, and to have her rapping away in the private house of a senior wrangler using all the resources of his laboratory is too tempting a prospect.' Proposes to ask Rayleigh to arrange for some s�ances with Mrs Jencken in London, to which Myers could bring Adams. Asks Myers if he could alter the time of his inspectorial visit, in case Rayleigh wishes to confine his invitation to HS. Reports that their 'anxiety still goes on: but the doctors seem to have good hopes.' .
1 doc.

4 Jun [1874]

263

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports on the arrangements in relation to impending s�ances; he intends to write to Barkes about Mrs Petty, and to Mrs Reed about lodgings. Suggests that Myers write to John M[ould], mentioning their having secured mediums, and inviting him to be present. Thinks that the s�ances should take place at Dr Barkes' dentistry. Refers to the latter's 'note to paper in Spiritual Mag[azine]' in relation to the tying test, which he proposes should be their principal test. Wishes to reserve the weighing test for London, and refers to their previous preparations at Newcastle. Thinks that they should 'give up' Bishop Auckland this time, 'unless the Pettys fail.' Refers also to Kilburn, and adds that he has asked Barkes to their s�ances. .
1 doc.

3 Feb [ ]

264

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Reports that he is engaged 'all evenings and Sunday afternoon', and that on Sunday he goes to [AS] Balfour, and 'must therefore see [Myers] first'. States that he has done nothing as yet about Petty. Adds that he is staying with Fawcett and would like to breakfast with Myers on Sunday morning. .
1 doc.

Apr 1875

265

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Fears that he will be engaged on Friday. Announces that there is to be a meeting on Saturday, and that 'George D---' is consturcting, and planning ligatures.' Reports that there are lots of applications for admission [to s�ances with the Newcastle mediums], and believes that 'people are beginning to think it is a part of the Cambridge Festivities, and want to know who gives tickets.' Claims that they are full, however, except for Sundays, and suggests that if Yorke comes 'it had better be for the Sunday. Asks whether Gurney will come. .
1 doc.

[25] May 1875

266

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Thinks Myers' arrangements 'excellent', but suggests that they might 'take Bp Auckland on the way', and that they stay [in Newcastle] 'till the end of the month.' Asks if they could 'manage the arrangements with Miss S. to take effect in the first half of April, and get [their] young friends to London at the same time.' Is glad that [his] work grows on Myers, and reports that there is a 'nice review' the Examiner of the previous week. .
1 doc.

Feb 1875

267

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports on a s�ance attended by him, presided over by the mediums Miss F[airlamb] and Miss Wood, and attended by himself and Miss Balfour [among others]. Refers to ghosts who 'appeared', including 'Pocky' and 'Minnie'. Refers to Miss F[airlamb] having declined to be searched. Adds that they all thought that 'the movements of the small figures just like those of [a] girl on her knees.' Claims that he is 'unconvinced of the girls['] fraud', but believes that the Hollands are convinced of it, and that Miss Balfour is suspicious of them. Adds that [AS Balfour] was not there. Asks Myers' opinion on the matter. .
1 doc.

25 Jul [ ]

268

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Discusses s�ance referred to in a previous letter, and refers to the weight in the hammock, and to Miss Wood having gone into the cabinet with a chair. Announces that he goes to Newcastle the follwing day. States that the Balfours and he think that he [HS] ought to explain to Blake Armstrong and the mediums that they must have the right of search '� discretion, and break off if refused'. Wishes to know Myers' and Gurney's opinion on the matter. Announces that he goes on Thursday 5 August to stay with 'JEX' in Grasmere, and then on to Oldchurch, where he is to meet [Myers]. Refers to the cost of the media, which he declares was 'not dear.' Adds that the Hollands will come to Cambridge 'for about 4 days', and that St. George M[ ] would like to come 'for a day or two'. .
1 doc.

30 Jul [ ]

269

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Confesses to being uncertain about Myers' 'kind offer'. Reports that J.W. Hales is going to give a course on Shakespeare, which will be 'more literary than Skeats' ', and thinks it better to defer Myers' [course] until the May Term, 'in order not to produce an embarras de richesses.' Suggests that he give one or two lectures on Milton's Paradise Regained. Announces that he shall be in London on 4 [January]. Asks him not to mention 'the evening of the [Tenant's] Dinner at Terling'. .
1 doc.

[22 Dec 1875]

270

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has been allowed to keep his rooms the following term, and urges Myers to take possession of them. States that either 25 March or 1 April will suit him, as Ad Eundem is to be 11 or 18 March. Reports that the Hollands are doubtful about Newcastle. States that AS Balfour will be at Terling in the first week in March, so he thinks they 'must be married on April 4th'. .
1 doc.

22 Feb [1876]

271

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to 'the dreadful news', which he had just heard from Th[ ] S[ ], and expresses his sympathies for both Myers and Gurney. Announces that he altered his plans again, finding that he 'should really sacrifice nothing of NS' society and thinking [he] might be of more use in London.' Announces that he shall be dining at the Albemarle on Tuesday. Asks Myers to thank his mother and brother for their congratulations [on the announcement of his engagement]. .
1 doc.

31 Dec [1875]

272

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. States that 'the watch spoken of by the prophet would be highly acceptable', but that his mother 'has other ideas'. Supposes that Myers is coming to Cambridge, and informs him of his movements over the next week or so. Reports that they have not yet got over the shock of Lord Salisbury's speech, and suggests that the latter does not know what academic conservatism is, or does not care, or that he does not know that Oxford Conservatives are unlike Cambridge ones. Announces that AS Balfour 'is expected daily now'. Reports that NS is staying that night with the Marquis, but HS is afraid that 'he won't talk to her about University Reform'. Hopes that Myers' brother 'is still convalescing'. .
1 doc.

[28? 23 Feb [1876]

273

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Sympathises with Myers in relation to his anxieties, and confesses to feeling guilty about his own happiness, while those around him are unhappy. Reports that his mother is 'ill and depressed', due to loneliness, and to HS' brother William's prospects. States that he shall be glad to see Myers 'on 14th'. Hopes that A[rthur] will be able to come 'on the 1st.' .
1 doc.

[1 Mar 1876]

274

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that 'Dr S came to C[arlton] G[ardens] wrote on a closed double slate, and on one that [HS] partly held: but did not in either case keep the slate in sight the whole time after [HS] had looked at it.' States that other people 'seem to have had much better things', and refers to Sergeant Cox, St. S. M[ ] and Hutton. Relates that they [HS and others] 'got him [Dr S] half to promise to come to [Cambridge] in October', but doubts that he will come. Announces that he means to stay [in Beauly] until the end of the month. Refers to his mother's illness, and states that they shall probably go to Oxford in September to take care of her. States that he does not intend to let Slade go 'without wringing evidence out of him.' Reports that Miss Fairlamb 'has been having something good in N[ewcastle]: materialization [of being] outside the cabinet', and announces that he would like to stay a night or two there if possible. Reports that they are 'having splendid days' [in Beauly]. Wishes Myers 'all success in Cambridge. Reports also that Miss Anderson was impressed by Slade, 'and could not conceive how it was done.' States that the weak point of Slade is that he won't try two slates screwed together, which George Darwin invited him to do. Remarks that [Con], C.C. [Massey], [Moses] and Myers 'form a strong phalanx.' Reports that Carpenter has been and says he can't explain it, and wants Slade to come to a meeting of the British Association. Adds that John Holland saw him there. .
1 doc.

18 Aug [1876]

275

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Reports that he has read Myers' article and found it very interesting. Refers to a particular passage in relation to 'M's views on income-tax' being used as a justification for calling him an assassin, and suggests that this charge actually rested on a specific accusation of having prompted the assassination of Charles Albert. Refers also to Galleanza and Mazzini. Reports that his sister 'writes with serenity - even with a bright intensity of resignation', but he claims to be 'half afraid of a reaction.' Claims not to know what to write to her. .
1 doc.

20 Feb [1878]

276

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Refers to a matter that they had discussed previously, and expresses his regret 'at the bubble bursting.' In relation to Slade, suggests that if he still feels confidence in him he had better subscribe 'to the defence fund.' Claims that they [HS and others] cannot, as although they believe that the sentence was contrary to the principles of justice, their 'private conviction that [Slade] sometimes cheats is so strong' that they cannot bring themselves to abandon their attitude of neutrality. Invites Myers to dine with them on 16 November. .
1 doc.

5 Nov [ ]

277

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Postcard. Claims to have 'no time for Socrates' at the present. Declares that he likes the 'Substance for Matter' and the four lines, but asks if 'the repetition of C. and T. [is] so unvirgilian as to be objectionable'. .
1 doc.

Nov 1878

278

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that they intend to go to Whittinghame on the following Friday, the funeral [of his brother-in-law, Francis Maitland Balfour] being on Saturday. Asks Myers to let him know whether he has had success, and whether 'both Miss mason and the children stay over Monday.' Refers to C. Cunningham's letter in the Times in relation to Balfour's accident. .
1 doc.

4 Aug 1882

279

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he goes to Buxton on 29 [January] 'if desirable', but cannot go before then. Wishes that Myers and Gurney would go also. Is glad that Tyler is interested. Relates the problems that he has had with a medium Mrs [Linehan], whom Theobald and [Coffin] went to see, reporting 'danger of D.T.' States that he is now trying Miss Barnes - a new medium. Refers also to his prospects at Oxford. .
1 doc.

20 [Jan] 1882

280

Henry Sidgwick to F.W.H. Myers. Announces that he yields to Myers' and Barrett's arguments, and undertakes to write to the latter 'to accept unconditionally.' Explains their possible travel plans from Newcastle to Cambridge, and on to Oxford. Asks Myers to breakfast at North Hill on the following Wednesday. States that they shall both be very busy, 'especially NS', and he wishes to hear all Myers has to say. Reports that Barrett has written asking her to join [the] Committee. Undertakes to telegraph if they stay in Newcastle, in which case they plan to pass through Cambridge on their way to Terling, and would like Myers to come to lunch. States that AS Balfour will be Vice-President. Enquires about John Holland and Roden Noel. Reports that Jebb is flourishing, but involved in an educational controversy. .
1 doc.

15 Jan 1882