Showing 20 results

[Sent from Clifton]:- Announces that he has just arrived in Bristol, having left the Pauls the previous day. Reports that Mrs Paul asked after his mother. States that he enjoyed his visit there and in London. Remarks that Paul has got very nice children. Reports that Mrs Symonds has just had a little girl [Madge], but that he has been assured that he is not in the way. Refers to his mother's last letter in which she had discussed views on religious subjects. Believes that 'English religious society is going through a great crisis...and it will probably become impossible soon to conceal from any body the extent to which rationalistic views are held, and the extent of their deviation from traditional opinion.' Refers to the fact that the Ritualists 'are determined to burn altar lights after all.' Would like the Church 'to include the ritualists'. Reports that Noel has brought out a volume of poems, which he undertakes to send to her. Asks her to tell Arthur that he has 'nearly evolved both the major and the minor premiss [sic] of [their] practical syllogism', and that 13 February is the 'Ad Eundem day', and that he is to write to Reynolds.

Reports that he did not see Sidgwick's article on Bentham until a day or two previously, and was please by his 'kind (only too kind) reference' to him. Refers to his omission - pointed out by Sidgwick - in relation to Bentham in his own book, and explains that he had intended 'to add some account of him, both as a [ ] and a political writer' when he revised the book, but failed to do so. Remarks that he does not always agree with Sidgwick, but that the latter always sets him thinking, 'which is the most valuable of intellectual services.' States that he had hoped to see HS at Oxford some days previously, but he did not go. Hopes to see Sidgwick and others 'at future [Ad Eundems?] if the institution survives'. Refers to the increasing solitude of his life, and reports that he is soon 'to lose Miss Thackeray' [due to her forthcoming marriage], which he describes as 'a giant wrench'.

Complains about the alterations made to his article, which appeared in that month's issue of Fraser['s Magazine for Town and Country]'. Explains the argument behind one passage that was omitted in the publication, in which his 'general drift was that if you make an action accidental you have no motive for gratitude.' In another omitted passage he had argued that it is right to do 'what will cause most happiness irrespectively of the subject of the happiness...' In yet another excluded passage he had argued that a belief in future rewards and punishments 'would not really reconcile selfishness and utilitarianism, but only (in short) sanction selfishness.' Announces that he will not see Sidgwick at the Ad Eundem as his mother has just died.

Refers to an enclosed piece [not included], which, together with a few lines he wrote to Arthur, give his view of William. Reports that on the whole he was 'agreeable surprised with his aspect'; claims that he does not look very ill, but that he looks like someone in the first stage of convalescence. States that others who came to the same [Ad Eundem?] Club dinner in Oxford also thought him to be looking better than they expected. Reports that Digby told him that he had spoken to Mr Symonds, who attends William, about the latter's attack.

Asks her to thank Arthur on his behalf for the signatures. Announces that he sent in his thirteen propositions [for college reform] that day. Declares that 'the extent to which [he is] reforming mankind at present is quite appalling'. Reports that they have 'a fine old Conservative Institution which will resist many shocks of feeble individuals like [himself].' Claims that these Conservatives 'are too triumphant at present', and refers to Italian affairs, including the failed revolution, Victor Emmanuel and Garibaldi. Mentions that Trevelyan was present at the latter's arrest. Undertakes to tell her when anything is settled about [Roden] Noel's visit. States that he has asked him to visit some time in December, since he [Henry] intends to go abroad for about three weeks at the end of the month. Announces that he must be back in Cambridge earlier than usual after the Christmas vacation, as he 'holds the dignified post of "Father of the College"!'

He and Nora have been very busy; otherwise he would have written sooner. Refers to her direction to him in her last letter to write to William instead of her. Is glad that everything is going well. Reports that Nora wishes her to send the marmalade, in order to stop his grumbling 'at the stuff she buys'. Assures her that Nora will write soon, but explains that she is very busy with housekeeping, visitors, dinner parties, her own mathematics, and the mathematics of Newnham Hall.

Believes that the Ad Eundem is to be in Oxford on 10 [June], and asks if she could take them in then. They would like to come and see her and William, but he fears that it will very likely be an inconvenient time.

Says he made an exact copy of the list of the Ad Eundem [see 103/57], but asks Nora to send it back to him if it turns up, as it is 'the only early record of the Society.' Regarding to the three photographs [of Henry Sidgwick] that he sends [see 103/60], claims the 'carte de visite head' taken by Guggenheim in Oxford was not his. Thinks that the oval photograph 'excellently represents Henry as he was soon after he took his degree.' Adds that he has, and values, Mr [ ] Smith's 'admirable portrait.'

Returns to her with thanks her list of members of the Ad Eundem [included]; dates it 'not earlier than the spring of 1866, when W.H. Thompson became Master [of Trinity] and it is not later than the autumn of 1868' when he [Jackson] was elected. Thinks that the likely date is 1867. Gives a list of those he believes were the founders; includes the names of Henry Sidgwick, H. Fawcett, A. Sidgwick, W.C. Sidgwick, G.O. Trevelyan etc. Lists the names of some men who came later. States that from January 1872 he has a complete list. Refers to Arthur [Sidgwick's] resignation in December 1877, and his reelection in May 1879. He always regards the Ad Eundem 'as one of Henry's good works'; it has been very useful as a link between the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Referring to the printed list, states that he believes that 'the written supplements are Munro's.'

Printed list entitled 'Ad Eundem Club/List of Members.' Lists members of the club, with their addresses. MS annotations.

Has been away to see the Robertsons; is now 'in a rush of politics.' Is coming to Cambridge the following day, but will probably be unable to do much. Has written to H. G. D[akyns] about Frank Vivian, and undertakes to send Nora his reply when it comes. Encloses 'the "Scope and Method" ' [not included]. In relation to the date of the establishment of the Ad Eundem [Society], states that his records go back only as far as 1868 when Jackson was elected, but that his diary shows that he attended an Ad Eundem dinner on 9 June 1866.

Refers to a memorial meeting [for Henry Sidgwick] held that afternoon. Feels that she will forgive him for not having written in August. Remarks that it must have comforted her to hear what was said of Henry at the meeting, 'and still more the tone in which it was said by Mr Bryce, Leslie Stephen, Canon Gore, Dicey, and Maitland...' Suggests that it must be a help to her to know how his memory lives [on] in the hearts of such men, and to be able to carry on herself 'at least one branch of his work'. Claims that he often wished he knew Henry better, but that he had no excuse for approaching him. Adds that he has happy memories of him at the Ad Eundem and remembers their journey in the same train the previous May.

Hopes that Arthur has enjoyed Dresden. Reports that he has seen many Rugby people that term, which, he predicts, will be a long one. Relates that he has several pupils and six hours a day 'at the least', but does not feel at all hard-worked, and that he breakfasts every day at half past seven. Extols the virtues of brooding and musing, but claims that 'a certain amount of Drudgery is necessary to longevity: that idleness and creative tension alike exhaust the creative force'. Reports that Kingsley 'is preaching sensation sermons on the Psalms of David'. Intends to go to Oxford the following Saturday 'for a refreshment' [probably for the first Ad Eundem Society dinner]. Asks his mother to tell Arthur to 'beg, borrow, or steel' Emilia in England, which had 'such an effect' on Henry that he spent his 'spare cash' on [George Meredith's] other works.

Writes on the death of Henry Sidgwick. Assures her what a terrible loss it is to him, and of how great a value to him Henry's friendship and advice have been over the years. Claims that he was 'the most truthful, the most searching and the most sympathetic of critics', and then when he was last at Cambridge he read through Henry's article on Bentham in the Fortnightly [Review], and looked forward to discuss it with him. Claims that he was 'all a professor ought to be and can be in England', and how he himself, and many others, have profited from Henry's example, and trusts it may continue to help him while he teaches at Oxford. Claims that he owes thanks mainly to Henry for 'the Cambridge L. L. D.', and that the latter gave him [Dicey] encouragement when he was out of heart about his work. Also expresses his thanks to Nora and Henry for their having come to him [and his wife] for the previous Ad. Eundem meeting, and realises now that that visit to Oxford 'must have been a fearful strain and effort'. Mentions with fondness 'the Sunday with Sidgwick and...the bright meeting to hear his essay on Green.' Claims that these memories, and his last few minutes of conversation with him in London will now remain with him as cherished memories. Concludes that Henry's life 'has been a joy as well as a blessing' to all who knew him.

Reports that he has been allowed to keep his rooms the following term [despite his marriage], and urges Myers to take possession of them. States that either 25 March or 1 April will suit him, as the meeting of the Ad Eundem is to be 11 or 18 March. Reports that the Hollonds are doubtful about Newcastle. States that Arthur Balfour will be at Terling in the first week in March, so Sidgwick thinks he and Eleanor 'must be married on April 4th'.

States that '[C. H.?] Pearson is open to the offer about Saffron Walden', and wishes to hear details. Warns Myers not to come to Cambridge on 20 [November], unless he would like to meet the Ad Eundem (Society). Praises Myers' poem, but admits that he has not altogether made up his mind about it. States that he would like to hear more about the French Literature Scheme. Reports that [at Cambridge] they are 'thinking of nothing but war and academic reform.'

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.

Regrets to say that he will not see William the following week. Reports that the latter has written to say that he does not feel well enough to come to the 'Ad Eundem'. Informs her that the marmalade has arrived, 'and is very nice.' Asks her to tell Arthur that they 'lost "the whole ticket" at the elections to Council.' Does not think that it will much matter, and states that '[t]he questions which are coming to the front now in Academic affairs are not of a party character.' Regrets to see that the same state of affairs does not exist 'in the metropolis: and that the worst features of Parliamentary Elections are to be introduced into the Elections of school-boards in the Metropolis'. States that he allowed his name to be put on Miss [Garrett]'s committee for Marylebone. Has learnt that the elections are to cost about £1,000 per candidate, and Miss [Garrett], 'standing on principles of peculiar p[ ] will only spend £500.' Adds that it is 'a terrible waste of money.' Reports that Trevelyan has been there 'in a very triumphant and anti-military state.' Quotes Seeley on opposition to a reform. Asks her opinion of Myers' last poem in Macmillan['s Magazine]. Thinks it 'very fine', and remarks that Myers' ability 'to write anything so like Pope shows great versatility of style.' Adds that he is glad that she liked Catherine Symonds.

Declares that were it not for the fact that he is to go to her in October, she would be very sorry to say that she cannot receive him that month. Reports that she was at Stone G[appe] a week previously, and was going again to the Chancery, when she heard from William of their sudden move to Guernsey, so she hastened home. States that the 'whole party' seemed in good spirits, and hopes to hear the following day of their arrival in Guernsey. Refers to Henry's attitude towards the move, and to William's return to Oxford, which had proved to be a disappointment. Announces that she is going to see Minnie the following Monday, and will see Martin and Arthur before they go to school. Declares that the loss of 'the Crescent Villa family' is great, and hopes that the move may bring some greater good to William. Asks Henry to write to tell her when he is going to visit in October. Adds that William was anxious to know from Henry the day of the Ad Eundem, and whether he [Henry] could go to Oxford. Suggests that she could ask Mr and Mrs Trevelyan. Offers him lodgings on 20 September in Oxford, if he has 'any difficulty about a bed' and doesn't mind the distance from Lincoln College, and states that Mary could make him very comfortable there.

Announces that he shall be in Cambridge on both 25 March and 1 April, but does not know whether the Ad Eundem will be on the one day or the other. Refers to Myers' 'munificent [ ]', and states that his mother did talk of giving him a watch, but that he has not been counting on it. Thinks that the week of his marriage [to Nora Balfour] has now been fixed as the week before Passion week. Hopes that there will be only a few of their friends, including Myers, 'bored by the ceremony'. Sends his kindest remembrances to all. Reports that he has just come back from Rugby 'where the Quartette has been very nice.' Adds that he is glad to hear f[ ] accounts of the K.

Thanks her for the copy of Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir; explains that he wanted to read it before acknowledging its receipt. Says that he went to Lowestoft to work, and to read the book 'by the way', but that it has engrossed him all week, and has interested him intensely. Says that it gives 'everything that personal friends most wanted', but regrets to say he does not think it is at all 'the work the world wanted or expected.' Suggests that '[t]he general need would have been better met...by a topical arrangement' rather than the exclusively chronological one that she has adopted, and also that the letters 'might have been curtailed sufficiently to make room for some continuous presentation of Sidgwick as a philosopher, a political thinker, an educationalist, and a "man of letters" '. Remarks that it is odd to find in the life of a philosopher 'no account of his philosophy'.

Fears that the impression that is likely to be made is that Henry cared more for psychical research - a topic that is 'ever recurring' and which takes up a large part of the index entries. Believes that this latter interest was 'the real labor injustus of his life', and laments that it was Benson and Westcott 'of all men' who should have started him 'on this surely hopeless quest'. Refers to his '[ ] hasty acceptance of telepathy', and 'his later tacit retraction'. States that 'no one can fail to admire his moral courage in this whole Memoir however much one regrets the terrible waste of powers that would [ ] have been better employed.' Believes that had he lived longer he would have done very much more. Suggests that it might have been worthwhile to add the name of the Vice Chancellor who appointed Dr Cunningham as deputy for Professor Birks [in 1881], if, as he believes, it was Dr Perowne. Also suggests that Frank Balfour 'might have been mentioned on page 224 as a member of the Eundum. Refers also to Coutts [Trotter?], and to [Gerry] D[arwin]. Expresses his surprise at finding no letters to Professor [ ] Robertson in the Memoir.

Wonders why he should mention all these things when what wholly possesses him 'is renewed admiration and affection for about the most perfect man [he has] ever known'. States that he should place Henry and Arthur Balfour in this category. Relates that when he [Ward] 'was tired of waiting for a post in Cambridge [Henry] offered him £150 a year to stay'. Claims that he did not accept it, but soon afterwards Henry resigned his professorship and Ward was then assigned a place on the College staff.

Writes to ask her to inform William of certain developments; that 'W.A. Wright [new member of the Ad Eundem] cannot come'; that he himself will come if his hayfever is not too bad; and that he has not yet heard from the other new member. States that he is glad to hear that he [William?] is going on so well. Expresses his regret at the news of 'the calamity', involving Dr Meyer. States that he has never met the latter, but that he has heard a good deal from Mary about a Miss Meyer. Reports that [in Cambridge] they are all 'quiet and prosperous', and that he is 'rather hard at work with a variety of teachings.' Asks whether she has got any subscriptions for him for the ladies' lectures. Reports that he has read the greater part of Disraeli's novel [Lothair?], and does not think it equal to the best of his earlier ones, but states that 'it is very light and amusing reading.' Does not think that he has read anything else lately except Rossetti's poems, some of which he judges to be 'splendid', but he would not recommend the whole book.

Would give him the greatest pleasure to come to her 'on the 19th', but fears that he will not be able to come to the Ad Eundem, 'as it falls in the Whitsuntide vacation', during which he hopes to go on holiday. Is unsure when they [he and his wife?] shall get away from London, but thinks that the chances of his being in Cambridge on the 19th are small. Suggests that they invite some other friend; is very disappointed to miss the opportunity of seeing her and Henry.