Reports that his paper was too long to find admission in the April issue of the Theological Review. Has made 'considerable alterations in it', and has explained his meaning; is unsure whether even now the paper would satisfy Sidgwick, or that the latter 'would accept its words as fully and adequately representing the mind of the [Free Christian] Union.' Intends to send the paper to Martineau as soon as Beard sends it back to him. Believes that, as it is materially altered, 'it is only right to try so far to fulfil [his] promise to F.C. Union.' Asks Sidgwick when they are to meet. Informs him that his wife is going to Torquay on Easter Eve, and that he shall have a week alone, and that he may have to lecture on behalf of the League at [Bownce] and Swanage. Would be most happy for Sidgwick to visit during that time. Announces that he is going to Bath on the 25th for his sister's wedding, and shall spend one day at Clifton. Then he will be back home again until 4th, when he is taking Louis to Eton. Promises to give Sidgwick meat and wine as always, even though he has been on a vegetarian diet for six weeks.
Explains that he had intended to write to Sidgwick many times since [J.B.] Payne's death, but the latter event affected him so much that he did not have the heart to do so. Tells how he was looking forward to Payne's visit, when the latter's brother contacted him to tell him that he had died. Recounts that their last meeting was when he [Kegan Paul] was on his way to preach the Free Christian Union sermon, and that after the 'misrepresentation of it in the Pall Mall [Gazette], Payne tried to persuade the Editor 'to set the report right'. Expresses the wish that Sidgwick will come to visit in the autumn.
Reports that the Cornishes have been to visit, as well as several other friends, but that some pupils who had been coming to him were no longer being sent by their parents, because of the sermon he preached at the Free Christian Union. Refers to a paper he has just sent to Beard or Renan, and fears that Sidgwick will think that he is 'hedging on the orthodox side' in it. Reports that Cornish is reviewing [W.E.H. ?]Lecky in the same Theological Review. Remarks that Dakyns was very good to him, and sent him 'all sorts of information' about Brighton College. Announces that he is sending Louis back to Brighton, and that he gave Dakyns' information 'to a [ ] who is going to send his boys there.' Asks Sidgwick to give him 'a bed somewhere in Oct[obe]r' if he doesn't come to visit,