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8, Grosvenor Crescent, S.W. - Glad to have good news of Bessie and Paul; they look forward to seeing them all soon. Caroline has sent for [E. M. Forster's] "The Longest Journey", and Sir George will read it after his current novel. What Robert says about the Apostles inspires him to send some 'scraps... unearthed' when sifting old letters; Cowell was an 'ideal personage... a man who carried camaraderie to the highest point in [their] set and generation'. [Henry] Jackson persuaded Sir George to 'take over my MA' since the University may someday want a Liberal representative. Has nothing to do, and is very tired after sixteen consecutive months of work, including two of illness; the proofs [of the last volume of "The American Revolution"] will be a pleasure. Sends best wishes to Bertie Russell.

Asks her to try to locate a book, [Pneumatologie:] Des Esprits... by Mirville, which was lent to him by Miss Attersoll, and which he gave to his mother 'some time ago'. Explains that Attersoll has written to him asking for it. Wonders whether she is 'a favourable subject for a convert', and intends to try to instil 'a little "Spiritualism" into her by recommending her another book or two of the same kind.' Reports that they expect their Greek professor to be elected the following day [Benjamin Hall Kennedy was chosen]. Refers to the fact that William is to write one of the Reform essays, and that it is advertised in the Pall Mall Gazette. Informs her that Mr and Mrs Paul are to come 'some time in the week after Easter.' Recommends a vendor of Hungarian wines, and suggests three labels. Hopes that Mr Martin is getting better, and reports that he went to see him the previous day. Admits that he is quite worried about his friend Cowell, whose father has just died very suddenly.

States that he was glad to hear from Cowell, and very sorry to hear of his bad health. Admits that in the question he proposes he 'can only give an answer [apolitically obscure].' Refers to the group known as 'the "Apostles" ', and his perception of it during his time at Cambridge. Claims to believe that 'a certain amount of reserve' is an indispensable sign of the well-being of the Society. Maintains that the portrait of the Society in Dr [Coughlan's] [ ] religious [ ] 'shews how little the real character of the "Apostles" was known in his time and implies both the [ ] and some disadvantages resulting from it.' Concludes that he sees 'no good to be [ ] by talking much about the Society to the general world who are most likely to mistake its objects and misunderstand its principles.'

Thanks her for her letter of 12 September. Regrets to say that he has been in the habit of destroying letters; however, he has usually kept one from each friend, and adds that he has one written by J.J. Cowell. Sends one to Nora [not included]. Undertakes to send more if and when he comes across them, but explains that in cleaning out his rooms in Calcutta he used to destroy letters. States that he walked about too much in the hot weather in the Isle of Wight, and has not fully recovered. Regrets that he did not pay a third visit 'to that place near the Langham. States that he may be able to recall facts about Henry's early life, and adds that [C.E.?] Bernard was also with him at Bishop's College. Claims that then Henry was 'as good in mathematics as in classics.' His wife sends her love, and hopes that some day Nora will be able to go and see them. Declares that Annie Latham has often talked to him of Fontainebleau. Adds that he still possesses the Hippolytus [by Euripides] that Henry and he read together 'at that house in Redland', and recalls that they 'all used to play in a sort of alley with trees behind it, Bernard, Lawrence, W. Sidgwick and Arthur S.'

Impossible that Henry Sidgwick 'should have named anything which would interest [him] more than the Byron' [to be left to Trevelyan?] Refers to one of the poems, the Ode to Napoleon, which is 'exceedingly characteristic of Cowell' and a pleasant reminder of the close friendship that united Cowell, Henry and himself. Has not been in the habit of keeping letters from anyone, but that he has kept, as a bookmark, 'a very tattered letter of Henry's of 1896'; also Henry's last two of May and July 1900, kept 'as priceless possessions.' Also possible that he may find one or two letters written to him at important occasions of his life, as his wife has kept a great many of them. Undertakes to send all that he has.

[Sent from Roden Noel's]:- Asks her, on receipt of the letter, to send off the box he left, 'corded...by Parcel delivery.' Announces that he shall be in Cambridge on Saturday night and that he should like to have it by Monday. Refers to his having had 'a complete holiday for a month', something he has 'not had for some time'; supposes holidays 'do one good' but always feels as if he should not be taking them. Still, has enjoyed himself, and declares that he 'had some good talk at Bailie.' Indicates his desire to invite Paul to come to Rugby. Reports that he saw Dr Rowland Williams [at Bailie/Rugby?], and believes that he is 'quite sincere in thinking that he is one of the very few orthodox clergymen in England now.' Reports that he found Cowell looking much better than he expected, and trusts now that the disease of the heart 'will not prove rapidly fatal'; does not know whether there is any hope of his 'ultimate recovery'. Announces that he himself is not well, 'owing to the sea-air having proved too strong a tonic as it always does with [him]'. States that he is pleased to hear that his pupil has [left] Cambridge for a term and gone to Jamaica, so that he shall be responsible for his being '[plucked] in [ ].'

States that he does not forget that Cowell was to be at Lugano on 10 September, and announces that he will give 'no possible clue' as to his own whereabouts, beyond stating that he is 'still at this ancient seat of learning', but intends to go the following week to Llandudno, where his people are. Remarks that he has not seen 'the annual J.J.C in the Times yet'.

Reports that Trotter has returned, and that he and Sedley Taylor went up Mont Blanc. Enquired whether they had seen Cowell, and Trotter said that he 'hooted all the way from Grindelwald to Chamounix', and claimed that Cowell must have heard him, but 'wouldn't cry "cuckoo" '. Reports that he had 'an [angels] visit from Bowen the other day, which gave light and life to [their] proceedings. Refers to a four oared race with Huntingdon that Bowen organised, and to the fact that [George Henry?] Richards was 'stroke of the University.' Declares that 'Trevelyan is a splendid correspondent' and that he seems to be enjoying himself.

Reports that Henry Sidgwick and Brandreth have both been [to Cambridge] during the previous week. States that he 'never saw Sidg in such a state of embarrassment'. He had just accepted a Rugby mastership, but seemed to have forgotten about his composition lecture the following term. Adds that Clark was at Constantinople, and so Sidgwick 'could not get out of his difficulty except by telegraphing; he wrote subsequently to Temple to decline altogether, but was immensely disgusted at his "Vaughnism" - and on Monday morning packed his bag, and rushed to Paris, overwhelmed with shame and chagrin, to learn dancing.'

States that he has promised Eve to take his place at Wellington College during the fellowship week, and that when the fellowship exam is over Trevelyan, Wilson, and possibly Tawney are going to join Young in Wales. Reports that '[a] man called Thomas Harvey brother to the blacksmith who fires the guns, unfortunately smashed his mother[']s brains out, and two other people[']s heads in with a hammer the other day, at Fen Ditton, he got off and eluded the police for five days, by [clearly] hanging himself 50 ft high on a tree, not 200 yds from his mother[']s house.' Sends his love to Browning.

Reports that Minnie gave birth to 'a very nice plump little boy' that morning', and is well. States that Edward was away for the birth. Adds that Elizabeth claims that the baby is like William. Refers to Henry's letter, and states that they are all astonished at his 'cheap board and lodging with instruction', but expresses concern about 'those dreadful scourges' which afflict him by night. Is grateful for his description of 'the strange ceremony at Aix.' Hopes that he will find a companion to travel with. Announces that Edward 'is emancipated now and in a few days, all being well with Minnie and his babe'. Adds that he intends to go to Marlborough for a few days and the following week to join the party at Nab Cottage for a week. States that Mr Lightfoot has induced him to do so, and she is sure that it will do him good. Complains that the weather is very gloomy. Reports that Edward was not very well when his boys went away, and she does not think he has fully recovered yet. Remarks on Minnie's selflessness with regard to Edward. Reports that she has heard from William, and is now writing to him at Innsbruck, where she supposes he and Mr [Francis?] Otter will be in a week's time. Adds that he wrote from Munich, and had seen Henry's friends Cowell and Browning on their way to him. Sends Edward's and Minnie's love to him.

Assures her that he has no prejudice against the commemoration of New Year's Day, but owns to be 'not...very susceptible to the influence of conventional divisions of time...' Glad to hear that her stay at Hastings was a success and that she has been better; all his associations with Hastings are connected with the long illness and funeral of a good friend of his [John Jermyn Cowell]. Reports that he had a delightful visit at Clifton, and believes that Symonds was 'better than usual'. Remarks, however, that Mrs Symonds 'does not look very well', but that the children 'were thiving'. Spent three days at Wellington College, and judged Mary to be 'as well as could be expected'. Refers briefly to her baby (Robert Hugh Benson). Reports that two Miss Wordsworths [probably daughters of Christopher Wordsworth, including Elizabeth Wordsworth] were there, whom he thought 'remarkably pleasant and interesting'. Observes that Edward seemed overworked, but in good form. In relation to 'the Rugby news', does not know whether to be sorry or glad, and says that 'Basil Hammond...says "glad".' With regard to Frank Horton, declares that he has fair abilities, and hopes that he will take second class honours. Observes that he is 'very well disposed and industrious', and reports that his tutor 'thinks that he ought to get a first class in the College Examination at the end of the year, which will secure him a sizarship.' Sends his love to his aunt Henrietta, and hopes that his mother enjoys her visit to Brighton.

Announces that her time in York is drawing to a close, and asks Henry when he plans to come to Rugby and if his friend Mr Cowell is coming with him. Thinks of going to see some friends in Craven. Reports that her sister [Elizabeth?] has not been very well in the past week. States that Mrs McKenzie, the [ ] lady comes there the following Tuesday to take her [Mary's] place. Fears that her presence there did not do her sister the good she had hoped it would. States that she has little to report as she has seen very few people, and has not been reading much. Claims that she has had very few letters, and none from Rugby.

Refers to household arrangements, which she hopes will be completed soon. Reports that William came to Rugby the previous Friday, and think that he will be there until he returns to Oxford on 14 October. Expects Henry and his friend Cowell on Tuesday 10 October, and tells him to let her know for certain when he is coming, and if he wants to have a small party for him. Announces that Arthur expects Mr [William?] Everett to come for a night or two also. Explains the accommodation situation with regards number of beds and bedrooms. Refers to a drowning in Cambridge [that of Henry John Purkiss, see 99/51], and claims that Mrs Rhoades told her that James [her son] knew the victim.

Reports that Arthur has had more information about Dr [Henry Weston?] Eve's resignation, 'and appears to think that the Fellowship is given up on religious grounds....' Adds that she has heard nothing from Wellington College. States that Arthur got [The Life and Writings of] Major Downing, but 'does not think much of it', and she claims to find it vulgar and dull. Asks Henry to send her send her the numbers of Macmillan's Magazine when he is finished with them. Reports on the health of both Arthur and William, and on the good weather that they are having in Rugby.

Appreciates Sidgwick's long letter. Reports that he has been well informed of Trinity, and more particularly, of 'Apostolic' news. Refers to his present illness. Asks for Sidgwick's advice in relation to whether or not he should take the Tripos examination or to stake his credit on some future Fellowship Exam. Asks whether he should study Pindar, Martial, Propertius and others. States that if he has any time it must be devoted partly to history and partly to '[Gk] Comp'. Asks if it is 'not fearful to forget the Greek for the simplest words, and to feel as well able to compose an air as an Iambic'. Reports that to him were sent three copies of Horace [at the University of Athens by G. O. Trevelyan?] which he discusses. Claims that '[Burnand] would have written a more telling piece for the stage, and Trevelyan should have produced something more worthy of his pen for the general public', but says that it nevertheless gave him an hour's laughter. Expresses regret that he missed 'the Professor's [Rhesio]', and asks if he was Platonical or ironical [W. H. Thompson, Regius Professor of Greek?]. Refers to a report in 'the Standard' about M. Milnes' attempt to canvass for Lord Palmerston in Cambridge within a few hours of the Chancellor's death [Prince Albert, Chancellor of Cambridge University until his death]. Expresses his contentment that Sidgwick [and others] 'have thrown the mantle upon [John?] Stanning', and supposes that the Duke of Devonshire 'is pretty safe of the Chancellorship'. Presumes that [Oscar?] Browning 'must have come down heavy upon [Sidgwick and others]...with his loyalty, during the last few days.' Refers to 'the great American debate', and is glad that the Arbitration [ ] will now be squashed. Refers to Miller's arguments, which he claims he could not have endured any more than Sidgwick. Tells him to remind Cowell, if he is still at Cambridge, that he promised to write to him.

Offers to send her a book called A Lost Love by Ashford Owen [Anne Charlotte Ogle], which reminds him of 'Romance of a Dull Life etc [by Anne Judith Penny], only it is written with less intellect and perhaps more passionateness'.

Reports that he hears excellent accounts of her, and hopes that they are all true. Assumes that she is still at Hastings, Mentions that she may possibly be seeing William in a few days. Reports that he saw the latter at Oxford, and that he has given up his work for the term, and is going away, probably to Rugby first 'and then perhaps to Hastings.' Asks her how she finds Hastings. Declares that he knows it well, and looks forward to seeing much more of it in years to come, if his ' poor friend Cowell's life is preserved'; does not expect that Cowell will leave Hastings again now.

Hopes that she is not experiencing any fogs. Declares that they have been having a splendid autumn [in Cambridge]. Reports that he is involved in a project for improving female education, by providing examination for governesses. States that there is an attempt being made to form a joint board, consisting of members of the two universities, for the purpose. Mentions that there are also other projects. Remarks that it appears that there is particular activity in the North of England, where schoolmistresses 'and other enlightened people have associated themselves in several great towns, and out of these associations a general council has been formed with lofty aspirations'.

Refers to Matthew Arnold, whose 'unfortunate lecture on culture has been attacked again in the Fortnightly Review by Frederic Harrison'. Advises her that 'the Guardian Angel by O.W. Holmes is worth reading, though he thinks 'not good as a novel'.

Regrets that he cannot come to visit Sidgwick in Cambridge that year. Explains that he could not leave home before 16 December, and that [Francis Warre?] Cornish is coming to stay on 20 December. Invites Sidgwick to visit him on his way to [John Jermyn?] Cowell, or after his visit. Informs him that if he comes soon after Christmas he will find [John Burnell?] Payne there, and probably Dr [David?] and Mrs Rowland. Mentions that [Oscar?] Browning might also pay a visit. Describes the search for water by 'young Okeden', and how it was discovered that an underground stream to a well in the village ran from north to south. Reports that the 'Tennyson boys' told him that the Times reported that their father had changed college 'in consequence of a quarrel with her bread and butter'. States that Tennyson was in no other college but Trinity.

Invites her up [to Cambridge] for Easter Sunday. Says that he will write again from town, where he is going to stay with his friend Cowell. States that he shall be back in Cambridge by the following Wednesday or before. Reports that he has begun reading at the British Museum, and praises the facilities there. Refers to an enclosed list of questions [not included] sent to him from his aunt, which, he admits, he has neglected. Observes that some of the difficulties are theological, not critical, and believes that the writers 'had at best a very dim realization of the immortality of the soul.' Undertakes to write to his aunt also.

Thanks her for her letter [101/161], and regrets that her account [of her sister Elizabeth] is not more favourable. Assures her that she has done all that she could do 'in making the trial', and hopes that when she has got away from Fulford she will be able to distract her mind somewhat from his aunt's 'painful state.' Announces that he may come down to Rugby as early as Thursday the second, and certainly not later than the morning of Saturday 4 June. States that his friend Cowell will come too.

Announces that the Prince and Princess of Wales are to be in Cambridge for the 2 and 3 June, and he cannot decide whether he shall stay to help entertain them. States that [the College] is to give a grand ball in Neville's Court on 4 June, and that he considers the proposal 'unseemly', and opposed it. Since it is going ahead, would 'gladly' take part, but 'cannot think of any family with marriageable girls whom [he] could ask'. Intends to stay until the Tuesday or Wednesday of the week following. Reports that he has been 'up to town and had a glimpse of the Royal Academy [summer exhibition]' States that Arthur has not been asked to go to Rugby, and Henry believes that 'he will get much good from Cambridge for a year or two yet.'

Reports that he had 'a most delightful visit to Dorsetshire'. Tells her that she may tell Arthur 'that the mesmerizing did not come to much', as '[Charles Kegan] Paul did not succeed in getting Cowell any further than [Henry] had done, i.e. into a partial trance.' Reports that he felt his patriotism revive 'among the chalk downs and rich autumnal parks.' Remarks that he was surprised to find that Mrs Paul, 'who has written two or three tolerably popular novels is a rather quiet shy silent person - though very thoughtful and sensible when she does speak.'

Encloses the stamps [not included] of which he spoke in previous letters, and agrees with her as to the best way of getting the others. Announces that he will study the [Robert?] Browning, and that he is setting to work, although he does not feel so much inclined for reading as he should after a holiday. Asks his mother to give his love to his aunt [Elizabeth Lace], and states that he is glad that she is going to see her. Asks when William is going to be at Rugby at Christmas, and asks if he may bring a friend or two some time in the holidays. Understands that Arthur will be 'Europeanizing.' Observes that Mr Martin seems much better, although he looks ten years older. Hopes to see William in the middle of term. States that he does not like the moral and intellectual atmosphere at Cambridge any better for having been at Göttingen, or at least its effects on him; says however that 'the great lesson' he has learned in Germany is 'the necessity and duty of steady work, and one can do that anywhere'.

Reports that he is reading all kinds of books. Asks if she gets books now from a club, and if so, recommends the article on Poland in Vacation Tourists [and Notes on Travel].

Refers to [J. A.?] Cruikshank, and predicts that Sidgwick 'will like him'. Mentions Sidgwick's German expedition; encourages him to keep up his German and refers to a translation of [Ewald]. Invites him to come to visit on the following Sunday week, and states his intention of going to Cambridge sometime during the term. Refers to an acquaintance from Cheltenham. Expresses regret at [Cowell]'s illness. Reports of being engaged in a review of [Harkinson], which is very taxing. Mentions the few days spent with Cruikshank, and also time spent playing cricket in the Isle of Wight.

Does not yet know when he shall come down to her, but states that it will probably be more than a week and less than a fortnight. Asks if she will have the house ready by the 10th [of October]. Would like to ask his friend Cowell to come for a few days between the 10th and 18th . Reminds her that he was prevented from coming at Easter. Asks her to let him know as soon as possible. Reports that they are assembling again 'in considerable numbers', as the fellowship examination is so close. Refers to the 'bathing accident' [the death of H.J. Purkiss], which was 'a great shock to the college'. In relation to [H.W.?] Eve's resignation of his fellowship, reports that it was supposed in Cambridge to be due to incompatibility of religious opinions. Reports that [William] Everett is there; he did not come by the steamer he intended, and, as a consequence, could not stay with Arthur. Refers to Everett's lectures [On the Cam: Lectures on the University of Cambridge in England], which are to appear soon. Asks if Arthur got *[The Life and Writings of] Major D[owning]'. Hopes he is alright.

Reports that he only heard a week ago that Young 'had found it advisable (and also feasible) to degrade.' Claims that he was very glad to hear the news, since even if he had been able 'to go in by "making an effort" ', it would have been a very unsatisfactory [culmination] to three years work. Sympathises with him that he will have to work a year more at the old curriculum. Hopes that he is progressing. Reports that he met Cowell in London on Saturday, and he was wondering whether Young would go abroad with him.

Recounts that he found Arthur [Sidgwick] 'only just able to work' when he arrived in Cambridge on Saturday, as he had played fives, which brought on his irregular circulation. Believes that 'it is just about an even chance whether he gets the Craven or not'. Reports that they were quite surprised at having the senior after all in Trinity. Hopes that Barker will conform, and states that Jebb was in good spirits and reading hard. Recounts that [Richard Shilleto?] 'reports favourably of his freshness', but is not very strong in health.

Refers to the fact that Young was at Eton with [Smijth?] Windham, and asks if he thinks he is 'MAD, or only mad.' Declares that 'Wilson is convinced he was a lunatic', but every other Eton man Sidgwick has seen states the idea to be ludicrous.

Relates a conversation he had while dining at Merton College, Oxford. States that he thinks the speeches, especially Coleridge's 'disgraceful'. Wishes that he were at Oxford, because 'they are always having exciting controversies which keep them alive.' Relates that Jowett and his foes divide the [attention] of the common rooms with Mansel and Goldwin Smith. Reports that he has just read 'G. S.' "Rational Religion" ', which, he claims, 'seems smashing', but over-controversial. States that '[p]eople consider Mansel's chance of a bishopric as lessened.' Remarks that in his view the tutors at Oxford work harder and the men less than those at Cambridge. Asks Young whether he read W.S. Clarke's Latin Oration.

Reports that he went up to Cambridge 'to have a quiet study of Auguste Comte', with whose he has rather less sympathy than before. States that he 'tried to fancy being a Positivist and adoring Guttemberg [sic], the inventor of printing, but...found the conception impossible.' Intends to go up [to Cambridge] on Saturday. States that he thinks better of Horace than most men; discerns in his works 'a good deal of a peculiar fresh humour that [ ]', but sees that it is calculated to disgust many men, and wishes Trevelyan could know it.

[Sent from London]:- Reports that he has been unexpectedly detained in England, due to Patterson having delayed his arrival in London for two days. Has decided not to go to Heidelberg until the Autumn, and has decided on Berlin as the place of his residence. Announces that Edward Benson has given him introductions to professors there. Reports that he has not heard from Mrs [A ], but he may yet, as his letters from Cambridge have not yet been forwarded on to him. Expresses his wish to visit Heidelberg 'and enjoy the wonderful beauty of the castle', but does not intend to stay there as long as he had at first intended. Hopes that his mother received his parcel 'and found the philosophy soothing and elevating'; and also hopes that she continues with her walking.

Reports that he is now staying with his friend Cowell, 'who is living here now en garçon, as his family are gone to Norway'. Claims to be enjoying himself a good deal. Reports that he went to see Holman Hunt [Hunt's picture, The Finding of Christ in the Temple] again, and maintains that the picture improves every time he goes. Announces that that night he is going 'to witness some spirit rapping'. In relation to poetry, states that he has 'no "[afflatus]" ', and can't write any. Reports that at Cambridge he is considered 'irretrievably donnish.' Reports that there is another book lately published by the ' "[ ] etc" ' Praises the Saturday Review, and predicts that he will miss it in Berlin. Sends his love to William. Asks her to send Arthur's address to him in Berlin.

Confirms that the box arrived. Regrets to hear that she is not yet recovered; he did not realise how ill she was, probably because she was doing so much, but declares that he ought to have known her better by this time. Is glad that she thinks that Martin [Benson] is like him, and hopes that he will turn out better; says he thinks a 'tide' in his own affairs, a few years ago, might have 'led [him] to greatness' had he taken it and hopes Martin may 'have as good opportunities and make more use of them'. Remarks that Martin surprised him by the extent to which he appreciated things, but thought that he had 'less character than Arthur', which may also be true of Henry himself when he is compared with either of his brothers.

Refers to Dr [Rowland] Williams, and admits to have been impressed with 'his courteous deference to the opinions of those who were arguing with him, and his candour'. Reports that Cowell has slight disease of the lungs, but states that the dangerous part of the ailment is the heart, which his father believes that he cannot get over. Of his pupil Lord Lorne, remarks that he is not very intellectual, but very charming. Reports that he did not see any more of 'the young ladies' of whom his mother speaks. Tells her to dismiss the notion that she may have had that he was 'making love to one of them.' Declares that his is studying Metaphysics, which is 'very absorbing', but bad for the digestion. Confirms that he knows Carlos Smith slightly, and states that he is a very accomplished man. Informs her that 'he plays beautifully on the piano and knows six languages.' Reports that he stayed two days with his friend Noel, who is also 'absorbed in Metaphysics'. Says he knows nothing about Ecce homo [by J. R. Seeley, published anonymously] but reports that everyone there speaks highly of it; had decided not to read it after seeing a review, but realises he will have to. Expresses his extreme regret at hearing about Tryphosa [Lace, his cousin].

[Sent from Grange in Borrowdale]:- Regrets to report that Cowell is not coming to visit, and announces that he himself does not intend to come home until the end of the month, as he finds it more convenient to go to Cambridge first; will come home for the first week in October. Reports that the weather has been very good, and that they [he and G. O. Trevelyan] have been up Causey Pike and Dale-Head. Praises the 'wonderful variety' in the countryside where they are climbing, and mentions Buttermere Haws. Thanks her for the receipts. Reports that they have decided henceforward to avoid beefribs. Declares that the house in which he is staying is very comfortable, and remarks on the fact of it having two sitting-rooms.

Expresses his delight at hearing a good account of William, and asks if the Dakynses have 'gone to join them [William and Arthur] at Pontresina'. Reports that he has not seen any of the Rugby people, and declares it to be too much of an expedition to go to Grasmere and back in a day. Remarks that it is odd to hear of hot weather, as there they discuss whether to have fires in the evening or not. Claims that to him the temperature is 'perfectly charming.' Announces that he will leave on 1 September and go into Dorsetshire. Intends to see Furness Abbey on the way. Complains that it is a very long journey, and that he almost wishes now that he had not promised to pay the visit. Asks if she saw about Professor Grote's death, and declares that he shall miss him at Cambridge.

Announces that on the following Tuesday he goes to Germany, and states that he hopes that he shall not return until he can speak German fluently. Undertakes not to read any English, apart from her letters and the Times, and to speak it as little as possible. Asks her to tell Edward that he shall be in London from Friday until Tuesday morning, staying with J. J. Cowell in Hyde Park, and that he expects a visit from him. Explains that he wishes to see some friends who are going up for the Eton and Harrow match at Lords. Reports that he heard on Monday from their mother, who 'is with William at Beddgelert without Books', and states that he sent Whewell's Plato to her. Remarks that she seems to be enjoying herself. Regrets that he could not have gone down to visit his aunt Henrietta before he went abroad. Reports that he read through 'the famous Leiden [des jungen] Werthers [by Goethe]' the other day, which, he claims, he could not put down until he finished it. States that he has begun on Jean Paul, but finds him very hard. Undertakes to write from abroad. Sends his love to Edward.

Thanks Sidgwick for the books. Would like to have the 'Draft Scheme' returned to him 'at some time or other', but explains that he has sent his notes independently of it, and does not need it at once. Urges Sidgwick to show it 'to whom it may concern', but warns him that it is not as yet public and it is intended for members of 'the Committee'. Informs him that he has mentioned his name to the Secretary as interested in the scheme, and that Sidgwick may hear from a Mr E. Enfield [see Add. MS c/93/124]. Explains that his pupils will not leave him until 16 [December]; otherwise he 'would go with pleasure to see' Sidgwick. Expresses his preference for Cambridge over Oxford, and also his regret that he cannot join Sidgwick for a few days in Paris, saying that 'the present state of Royal Mail Shares makes the Workhouse or the Gaol look much more likely building than the Louvre.' Says he may get to London, where they may meet, if Sidgwick cannot come to see him where he is.

Asks after Cowell and Mozley. Declares that the four [ ] on the Psalms to be funny. States that 'there is such a serene ignorance, or assumed ignorance of the wrath of the Orthodox.' Wishes that the outward form of the book were less 'Macmillan ish.' Recommends that he reads Madame Roland's book on the Revolution, and comments that her unedited letters are a 'take [on], being nearly all anterior to her real interest of the time.' Declares that he must stop writing as a pupil has arrived 'wanting a lecture on S. John[']s Gospel'.

[Sent from C. Kegan Paul's home]:- Reports that he is playing chess with Cowell , and is enjoying himself as much as he can in the rain, which has prevented him from seeing much of the scenery or places of general interest in the neighbourhood. Declares that he has been promised a visit to Corfe Castle. Announces that he returns to Cambridge on the following Saturday 'to read hard for a fortnight if possible'; criticises his own idleness and lack of 'resolution', saying this is the 'second Long Vacation [he has] frittered away pursuing study as a vain shadow".

Refers to his time spent at the Lakes, the enjoyment of which was overshadowed by the death of 'poor B. Young'. States that Edward Young was one of their party; he was 'in rather bad health', and 'got a few agonized lines from George.' Wonders as to the imprudence of the expedition, with regard to accidents; remarks that one only hears of Englishmen and Russians being killed, and not Germans and Frenchmen. Returns to the subject of the book Initials [by Jemima von Tautphoeus] which, he believes, is a caricature. Confirms that he will see her in the beginning of October. Asks her to send his greetings to the Ch[ ], and to give his love to Fanny Green if she sees her.

States that he has been at Trinity College about a week, trying to write an article, but claims that he has been ill and shall probably be delayed. Does not think that solitary life agrees with his constitution, but clings to it because he believes that it helps him to concentrate his mind. Declares that he enjoyed his holiday very much, 'particularly the three weeks at the Lake [with G. O. Trevelyan and Edward Young].' Remarks that although he was happy in Dorsetshire, 'it was very melancholy being with poor Cowell', who is quite ill.

Reminds his mother of her invitation to [Charles Kegan] Paul to come to Rugby, and announces that he has asked him to come the following Easter. Does not know whether he will bring Mrs Paul or not. Asks her to send a volume of Fichte, and any books with library marks on them. Hopes to come to visit her on 3 October for a week. Explains that that is the day the Union Library opens and he wants to get some books 'before the country clergy have gone off with them all. Announces that it is thought that J. B. Mayor will be the new Professor of Moral Philosophy.

[Sent from St. Leonards-on-Sea]:- Reports that he found Cambridge 'full of friends and social gatherings, in spite of it's [sic] being vacation'. Declares that his friend Cowell looked better when he saw him on the previous Thursday, but that he has since caught a cold and is lying in bed 'absolutely exhausted, unable to eat or talk.' Claims that they all have colds, and fears that the reputation of St. Leonards will be ruined by another winter like the one they are experiencing. Confirms that the wind is extremely cold, and laments the fact that due to his not having brought his skates, he is 'simply reduced to a state of dull discontent.'

Mentions that all his friends have subscribed to the Jamaica Committee, and declares that he cannot make up his mind on the issue. Reports that two or three friends of his are there, so that his visit is interesting, but declares that it is a very unfortunate time for 'poor Cowell', whom he fears he excites too much with talking. Adds that also there is Cowell's father, for whom he feels much sympathy, and who he describes as 'this poor old man'. States that he himself is suffering from a sore throat. Reports that his two philosophic friends at Cambridge have both got engaged to be married within the previous three months; the last a 'man on whom [Henry] especially relied'. Supposes that if he stays on at Cambridge he will eventually get past the time of 'these disagreeable surprises', and that in ten years most of his friends 'will be either married or happy bachelors'. Realises this is 'the language of a bear', but says it is not their fault that at Cambridge they 'are thrown... into antagonism with the great interests of human life'.

Observes that he has left more than one of her letters unanswered. Reports that he has been seeing friends chiefly 'and walking to and fro in a great city.' Relates that he has been working at an essay for a volume, and suggests that an article of his may appear 'in next Macmillan['s Magazine]'. Fears that his work will hardly pay for his expenses. Reports that he has been inquiring into Spiritualism, but that it has not come to much. Declares that he can 'get to see and hear very astounding things in the dark with people [he does] not know', but can never get conditions to satisfy him.

Claims that he can never get enough time to read at the Museum, and although he feels well, he cannot get enough sleep. Is considering writing an essay for the Quarterly Review the following term, but does not know if it will be put in. Reports that he has plenty of work on his hands, as he has 'an entirely new subject to prepare' for the following term. Feels that he could write literature if only his mind was 'less chaotic'.

Remarks that London is a stimulating place, and that one meets stimulating people there, including Mazzini, whom he had met some nights before at dinner, and who 'attacked' him about Spiritualism, and 'bore down upon [him] with such a current of clear eager argument'; was 'overwhelmed', as people usually either treat it as a joke or have' nothing to say but the shallowest commonplace'.

Reports that he is staying in lodgings between two visits; has been staying with Symonds, whom he thinks his mother knows, as he has been at Rugby; describes him as 'also stimulating, though... a great invalid'. He is also going to stay with Cowell.

States that he will certainly come and see his mother at Wellington College: Edward [Benson] has asked him to come and that he has promised to do so. Cannot remember when, and asks her to find out when Edward is to go away. Remarks that he would just as soon come in the holidays as in the school-time, 'except for seeing [Henry Weston?] Eve.' Sends his love to all.

With regard to books, claims that he has not read any lately. States that the 'Cornhill of July is good: there is Matthew Arnold on culture, and an article on the Alps 'which makes one want to go there'.