Item 166 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Reports that he is very busy, as he is to examine the following week, and has lectures and other things to write. Refers to an article in the Times of the previous day, which gave an account of a meeting on university organisation in which he had taken part. Does not know what will come of it, but states that 'many people seem to think that the Government is likely to overhaul [Cambridge University] in some mode or other...and that people who are interested in the Universities and want them to fulfil their proper function ought to enunciate their ideas and be ready with their schemes.' Informs her that she may see a letter of his on the subject in the following week's Spectator. Confirms that he knows something about Rugby. Believes that 'the Crisis' will be the following Saturday. Declares that he is not without hope, but that 'if things are not settled in the way [they] want in the next meeting', he would not urge the masters to stay. Is glad that she has found a governess 'that promises well.' Wonders whom they will get at Shipton.

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, p 274-275.