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Nora will write to her about the wedding arrangements. The relatives on his side coming to the ceremony are 'A.S.' [Arthur Sidgwick],' C.S.S.' [Charlotte Sidgwick], 'E.W.B.' [Edward Benson], 'M.B.' [Minnie Benson], 'E[dward] Sidgwick, Lucy Sidgwick, W. Crofts, 'Mr W. C.', 'and perhaps Ellen with Miss Clough (Uncle John and Etty declining)', and that all the others he invited have declined. Besides these guests there are four or five friends of his, including Miss Clough, who are definitely coming, and one or two more who are probably coming. There will be about four times as many guests on Nora's side. Sends his love to Mary.

States that he has been very busy. Reports that his lectures have now come to an end. Explains that Charles [Sidgwick, his cousin?] had informed him of his uncle [John Benson Sidgwick]'s death before she had written to tell him, and says that he was 'much startled and grieved'. Refers to the last time that he saw him at the Mill; remembers all his 'childish feelings about him as the Head of the family' and is saddened by the thought that he 'shall never see his fine impressive old face again.' Mentions that one or two people in Cambridge had talked about him and the Ryddlesden family that term. Observes that Charles seems to be very popular.

Remarks that when this letter reaches his mother he shall be thirty-five, and goes on to discuss the ageing process, and the years which 'are beginning to go with Railroad Speed'. Intends to ask her to give him some of Miss Thackeray's works for his birthday. Hopes that she has 'good accounts of Isabel and the baby [Nevil]'. Reports that William was thinking of 'running over' to Cambridge, 'but somehow did not.' Announces that he is going to London to conduct an examination on 16 June, then to Margate for a fortnight, and after that he is uncertain about his plans.