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Explains that he heard of Henry Sidgwick's death while he was away on holidays [in Wales]. Refers to the personal loss which he feels, and to Henry's 'never-failing sympathy, stimulation, kindness and example.' Claims that for the last fifteen years and more he has never thought upon, or written about, 'ethical or cognate topics, or indeed discussed any serious matters of any sort with any one' without referring to Henry's methods and works on the subject. Refers to the high regard in which he was held by the Synthetic Society, and to Fr. Tyrrell's reference to 'the finely Christian temper of his mind'. Claims to find consolation in the fact that he has been saved much pain, and a period of frustrating inactivity. Refers to his own sister's illness and possible impending death. Adds that he intends to keep 'that most beautifully characteristic last letter of his...amongst one or two other letters' that he received from him.

Reports that he writes the letter away from home; is down in Bournemouth with his sick sister. Expresses his sorrow at Sidgwick's illness, and at the news that the doctors fear that his health may preclude his returning to his full literary activity. Reports that he has been anxious all winter about the state of his sister's health. Tries to comfort Sidgwick with the claim that doctors 'are certainly not infallible', and suggests that HS may prove them wrong by producing more work. Claims that he likes to express his 'sense of grateful obligation' and refers to the fact that, as a Catholic, he is a some distance from Sidgwick in religious matters. Refers to Wilfrid Ward, Fr Tyrrell, W.J. Williams, von Hügel's brother and the latter's wife, as those who would express similar convictions and sentiments as von Hügel in relation to Sidgwick. Quotes Basil Champney as having declared, with reference to Sidgwick, that 'there can have been but extraordinarily few men in existence, since the world began, who have had as many friends, and who have been so entirely without enemies.' Reports that he has just had his first exchange of letters with Professor James Ward [a close friend of Sidgwick's], whose book was such a great satisfaction to him.

Thanks him for his 'kind and interesting letter.' Refers to his incurable disease and the effect that it would have on his quality of life and ability to carry out his work. States that it has caused him to value all the more the kindness of his friends. Feels that he is unworthy of von Hügel's praise, but appreciates the recognition of his friends of the work, which he looks on as incomplete and imperfect. Does not know what the future holds, and states that as soon as he is physically strong enough he will 'endeavour to endure [the] habits of daily work', but that he has been 'warned against anything like fatigue.' Claims that he shall be very sorry if he is not able to write something more on the subjects on which they have exchanged ideas at the Synthetic Society. Expresses his sympathy with Von Hügel in his anxiety about his sister's health.