Item 190 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Reports that he is making 'a sort of tour of the North-German universities in order to study their system', and that he has spent a couple of days in Bonn and Göttingen, and is now in Leipzig. Notes that the professors to whom he has letters of introduction are all away. Has not yet made up his mind whether the journey was worth it or not, as he claims that he 'could have certainly got most of the information ... out of books catalogues etc.' States that his professors 'are very amiable and obliging, especially in the smaller towns like Bonn and Göttingen'. Refers to the fact that he stayed in Göttingen for two months in 1864. Remarks that although all the professors he visits are 'friendly and communicative', and helpful towards him, the natural habit of a German does not bend to hospitality towards a stranger in [his] position.' Explains that Nora did not accompany him for health reasons. Hopes that his mother has enjoyed her drives, and has been able to get out every day. States that they look forward to going to visit her on 6 August. Sends his love to his Aunt. Refers to an encounter he had with 'an Americanized German', with whom they discussed the difference between the ways of the two nations, as exemplified by warning notices at railway stations.

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, p 330-331