Item 39 - Letter from 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' [Arthur Balfour]. 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 Minnie to 'write her just a line to say that [she] will love her'. Describes his fiancée as 'sweet, simple, serene, helpful, clear-headed, deep-hearted, magnanimous'. Tells her to tell Edward to keep the secret carefully.