Item 93 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Reports that his nerves have got a little depressed 'not by hard work, but by too continuous a strain'; thinks hard work is healthy 'if one can enjoy leisure', but that 'What is trying is a Care perpetually haunting one, of whatever sort it may be'. Announces that his work will end about 6 June, and hopes that she may be able to come to visit him around that time, 'or else when the interesting events (boat processions, flower shows etc...) take place'. Reports that Cambridge is 'charming' at that time, and hopes that it may continue so. Claims that his rooms 'are those of an anchorite.'

Asks her view on 'the great "Spiritual" case'. States that he is writing for the summing up. Feels that he has been very neglectful of her. Reports that he has not been very well, and fears breaking down before the end of the term. Tells her that the week of the May examinations, from Saturday 6 to Saturday 13 June would be the best for a visit from her. States however that he will be very busy, that 'Cambridge will be frightfully full and it will be difficult to find lodgings.' Confirms that there will be balls on that week, and suggests that she might bring Annie [his cousin]. Reports that Lord Russell is there, and comments that 'he looks a very inferior sort of great man.'

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, p 182-183.