Item 62 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to Mary "Minnie" Benson

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Explains that he did not answer her letter about Chris [Benson?] 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 languages (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 Arthur [Benson?] says that she and her family may all be to coming [to Cambridge] for a Sunday in November. Asks if she could come for 22 November, when he expects that he and Nora should be 'quite alone'. Adds that Nora sends her love and begs her to come. Asks her to come on 29 if 22 November does not suit; Lord Justice Bowen and possibly Rayleigh will be with them then.