Item 151 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Is sorry to hear that she has been so unwell. Explains that he has been very busy since he came back to Cambridge. Is also sorry to hear no better account of William. Refers to the Ad Eundem [Society]. Wishes that William 'would see the best possible doctor.' Of Rugby, exclaims 'Alas! Alas!', and declares that he is anxious to hear when the new Board is to be appointed. Reports that his 'ladies' lectures' are going on very well so far. Is not over-optimistic, but hopes that they 'may become a real focus of improvement in female education.' Reports that they now have three or four young women who come from abroad. Undertakes to write to Mrs Horton, and to put his name down 'for a couple of [ ]', and also to 'go into the calculations about the maintenance of Frank [in Cambridge]' as carefully as he can. Thinks that the best thing for Frank would be to go to Cambridge as a sizar, and says that he would not mind proposing to provide him with rooms and books. Does not believe that he could get his whole expense of living, including close etc., provided out of charitable funds. Asks his mother not to say anything to Mrs Horton as yet, and undertakes to make further enquiries.

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, p 241-243.