Pièce 7 - Letter from Henry Sidgwick to his mother

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Explains that his delay in writing is due to the unsettled state of his plans. Reports that he has been staying in lodgings in Berlin for nearly a fortnight, and has to change his plans so that he will spend only a short time at the end of the Long [Vacation] travelling. Announces also that he has been obliged to separate from Patterson, who has to return to England earlier than he does. Admits that he has not studied much German as yet, but undertakes to work really hard at it when he goes to stay with a family. Professes to liking the town of Berlin very much, and to having great admiration for Germany. Does not believe that the Prussian policy or the real position of Prussia in Germany is generally understood in England.

Explains his delay in finding a family to live with as being due to two of the three professors to whom he had letters of introduction from E. W. Benson were away, and the third, Dr Wiese, was 'either too busy or unable to assist [him].' Professor H[errig], when he returned, found a residence and instructor for Henry for six weeks. He is lodging with a Dr Lüdde-Neurath, and undertakes to send the full address soon. Reports that he travelled to Berlin via Antwerp, Aix, Hanover and Magdeburg, and at the latter witnessed the ceremony of the Greater Relics and bought some commemorative medals. Remarks on the cathedral there, where he saw the relics. Reports that he had a bad bout of hayfever in Aix, and so chose to go to Hanover by night. Crossed the Rhine at Dusseldorf. Describes the new part of Hanover as 'a very nice town', and his visit to the palace where he saw the portraits of the Four Georges. Sends his love to Minnie and Edward.

Part transcription in Sidgwick, Arthur, and Sidgwick, E. M, 'Henry Sidgwick'. London: Macmillan, 1906, pp 53-54.