Exeter College. Congratulations on winning the English verse prize, examining is "hard work".
Dilston nr Gateshead. Advice to H M Butler on grouse and partridge shooting.
Reports that she wrote to Mrs [Blanche?] Clough, and that the latter sent it on to her sister-in-law [Anne Jemima Clough]. Mrs Clough tells her that 'through Mr. and Mrs. G. Butler she [her sister-in-law] has succeeded in inducing a Mr. Myers...to undertake to lecture once a week [on Italian history] to [these] schools in Liverpool', and that Mr Hales' services will not therefore be needed. Asks Henry to inform Hales of this development, and also to let him know that a similar scheme may be established in Manchester, where his services may be required. Describes the end of term at Rugby. Reports that Mr [Henry?] Brandreth dined with them the previous day, and that he regretted not having seen very much of Henry. States that they are all well. Does not know when William is coming, and hopes that Henry will be able to come by the time Arthur returns from his visits to London, Clifton and Cheltenham.
Sidgwick, Mary (d 1879), mother of Henry SidgwickWreck of the Amazon, George Butler has pupils at Oxford.
George Butler jun is teaching at Eton, longs to see H M Butler's prize lyrics.
Cambridge. On the eve of the first scholarship paper, exams not passports to distinction, but tests of peculiar powers of mind, George Butler about to begin lectures, the swansong.
Refers to a previous letter, which was 'the happiest quaintest combination of pathos and fun'. Claims that he liked [Myers'] verses, and 'those in nomine F.M' he liked the best. [Note in Myers' hand explains that this is a reference to the 'first poem about Gertie.'] Refers to his 'Heinesque piece'. Also mentions that he had expressed a wish that Myers 'would traverse the globe in the company of J[ames] S[aumarez]'.
Is trying to work, but is not making much progress. States that he shall be delighted to see Myers on 23 [August], but claims that going to Cornwall 'would be too patent a confession of defeat': his 'moral sense would never get over it'. Adds that 'Butler is canvassing against Childers, as too contagious, at Pontefract.'
Vaughan spoke eloquently about George Butler, has received a Porson autograph.
Cambridge. Birth of a son of George Butler, Thompson and Whewell have given Spencer Butler testimonials.
Durham Castle. Benefits of actual ability over relative ability, prospects of the Harrow cricket team, battle of Djelam.
39 Marina, St Leonards. Engagement of George Butler jun to Josephine Gray, Mrs Hollond.