Pièce 173 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Should have written sooner, but has been very busy of late with correspondence connected with the lectures for women. Reports that they have just expanded the scheme, 'by constructing an Association to which any one may belong'; she herself will be a member if she continues to pay her guinea subscription.

Is glad that her 'view of things' seems so cheerful. Presumes that 'the Governing Body [of Rugby School?] do not intend to treat the matter lightly'. Is glad that her plans for 'the winter campaign' seem pretty settled, and asks her when she intends to start [for abroad]. Wishes to arrange about his Christmas visits. Believes that Symonds may be 'on that coast about the same time'. Reports that has 'gone a seavoyaging for a few months, and thinks of staying some time on his return at Cannes: where he has an invalid sister [Lady Strachey]'

Reports that he saw Edward [Benson] the other day, 'looking very well', and wishing 'for the "leisure of a Headmaster"'; he gave a fair account of Mary. Hopes to see William soon. Would like to go to Rugby for a Sunday, but does not think he can get away for more than one that term, and he is to go to Oxford. Sends his love to his aunt Henrietta, and asks his mother to tell her that he 'shall bargain for at least a sketch of Mentone as a reward for [his] services as escort.' Adds that he is very well.

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, p 285.