Item 163 - Letter from 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 Sidgwick 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'.