Item 40 - Letter from Augusta Freshfield to Nora Sidgwick

Has only just finished reading Henry Sidgwick: a Memoir; explains that they [she and her husband?] went abroad in March. States that as a biography it is 'vividly interesting from the first page to the last....' Remarks on the strong sense the letters 'unconsciously give of the expansion and development of [Henry's] life'. Refers to his attainment of a fellowship and the establishment of Newnham College, and describes his marriage as 'the crown to the perfecting of his life.' Refers also to how nobly he met his fate. Relates that they used to call him Socrates. Invites Nora to come to spend a day with them at Wych Cross during the holidays. Speaks of Henry's conversational gifts, and declares that she liked Leslie Stephens' and Mr Bryce's accounts of 'his talk'. States, however, that she and her sisters feel that the 'irrecoverableness' of the charm of Henry's conversation 'is not ever guessed in the letters.' Refers also to his recitation of poetry, and claims that his talk 'was the expression of his whole being....' Claims that she can think of six men - including her brother [Richmond] Ritchie - 'who can none of them at all tolerate each other, who all lay down their arms and speak with unqualified and enthusiastic admiration of [Henry]'. Hopes that they may meet before long.