Showing 2 results

States that by Herbert [her son]'s kind help she is in time to greet Nora the following day. Sends their love to her and best wishes that she may have comfort and the joy of knowing her work is of increasing value. Remarks that Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir seems to be occupying much attention. Has just come from a visit to the O[gles] in London; reports that everybody she met spoke of the great pleasure the book was giving them. Liked the review of it in the Times Literary Supplement, but did not like the one by H. Paul. Adds that those to whom she spoke in London said that the effect of the book was to make them feel as though they had been talking to Henry again.

States that the effect of melancholy to which the reviews allude could not be avoided 'because the letters naturally deal so much with his theological feelings and his deep thoughts on life.' Claims that he was 'so bright and happy in his intercourse with his friends', and how he showed his best side when he felt 'the answering sympathy'. Refers to his complaint of the want of humour in George Eliot, and declares that she has just been reading some of her work, and 'had been feeling this so much - in spite of Mrs Poyser [in Adam Bede] and the 4 aunts'. Declares that they are glad to see that Arthur Balfour 'is so much better for his sea air' and hopes that Monday night won't try him too much. Reports that she had lunch with Nevil the previous day at Lincoln College, and that he could only spare her three hours. Refers also to Arthur. Has been reading [Memoirs of] Archbishop Temple , and remarks on how carelessly it has been edited [by E. G. Sandford]. Remarks that Henry's memoir is 'a charming size', and that one volume is much more likely to be read than two.

Looks forward to seeing her on 4 May. Refers to 'a precious little packet' which she found among their mother-in law's papers, and which she now encloses [included]. Reports that she has just heard from the Rector of Lincoln College that [her son] Nevil is elected to an official Fellowship there. States that Lincoln wishes to attract scientific students, and Nevil will be allowed to take other pupils so long as there is not work enough in the college itself. He does not go into residence until October, and expects to have finished at Töbingen before summer. Wishes that she could have helped Eleanor in the arrangement of the letters, and states that she left all the envelopes that existed, and dated many of the letters. Claims that she can find none written by Henry to William 'that are not merely [ ] announcements, or engagements.' Reports that the weather is very cold, and that her roses were very poor.

With envelope [193/2], and dried flower [193/3], wrapped in piece of paper [193/4] labelled 'Orange flower and leaf taken from HS's button hole by M[ary] B[enson] on his wedding day 4 April 1876'.