States that he has greatly enjoyed reading Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir. It is right that it should be published: while some eminent men who have written books 'disappoint in their biographies', Henry's books 'did very far from present him fully', and 'the biography gives the charm of his conversation and personality happily.' It makes him feels that he wishes he had known him better than he had. Refers to Henry's position in regard to matters of faith and his fairness of judgment.; would have liked to have known more of Henry's attitude to Christianity. Refers to the 'last months', and declares the letters of that time to be 'especially remarkable even from a literary point of view for sincerity and the perfect expression of true and vivid feeling.' Trusts that [Arthur] Balfour 'will get much good from this short rest.'
Asks Nora's forgiveness for intruding on her sorrow. Wishes to add a few words to the sympathy which she is sure must be felt for Nora 'by every single person who ever knew' Henry. Has sometimes doubted the wisdom of working for the Moral Sciences Tripos from a teacher's point of view, but says she can never be too glad that she took it because it brought her in contact with Henry and 'Dr. [James] Ward.' Looks back 'on the hours spent in that delightful little study in the old house, as some of the most helpful in [her] life', and says she used 'greatly to envy the undergraduates who had the charm of discussing with Mr. Sidgwick some of the deepest problems of life'. Declares that 'even as it was, one's life has been the better and [stronger] for having known him'; has 'a dim idea' of what the loss must be to Nora.
Woods, Alice (1849-1941) Principal of Maria Grey CollegeWritten on the occasion of the death of [Mrs Sidgwick's brother, F.M. Balfour] in a climbing accident. States his intention of attempting to answer Sidgwick's question frankly and as clearly as possible. Announces that he is beginning to think 'all this mountaineering indefensible, but stresses that he should not blame either Balfour or himself for not having thought so 'before these terrible accidents.' Discusses the difficulty of laying down precise rules [in relation to mountaineering], and refers to papers he wrote for the Alpine Journal, in which he advised caution. Refers to Mather's and B[ ]'s letter. Discusses the relative merits of guides, and observes that they were more relied upon in the past. Explains that his wife does not wish to trouble Mrs Sidgwick with any expression of sympathy, but assures Sidgwick that she has been constantly thinking of her. States that his natural impulse would lead him to ask Mrs Sidgwick's forgiveness, but acknowledges 'the uselessness of saying anything of that kind.'
Stephen, Sir Leslie (1832-1904), knight, author and literary criticExplains that she had had no opportunity of seeing him when she was in Cambridge the previous week. Refers to 'that gathering of women' [at the funeral of Anne Clough], and remarks on the influence that they were exercising throughout the country and around the world. Remarks on the 'great work' that Sidgwick and she [Miss Clough] had wrought. Refers with affection and gratitude to the lessons she learnt at Cambridge.
Writes in relation to a statement, for which he claims he was individually responsible, relating to the question of the removal of the obligation to study Greek in order to enter Cambridge University. States that he had thought of sending round 'a quiet fly sheet after the vote, explaining that [the] statement about "no evidence" was not a contradiction of the expression of opinion which Jackson quoted', but he felt that Sidgwick's statement 'that it was a misrepresentation which Jackson had exploded, a complete stop to any public action.' Claims that the statement, which he and others signed 'has been for long a mere common-place on [their] side' and that Dr. Westcott made it in his speech in October 1880. Claims that neither Westcott nor he could find any evidence at able students were excluded because of the requirement of Greek. Assures that the large sheet of paper on which he writes the letter is not an indication of formality. Claims that he is not copying it, and sends it to Sidgwick 'in all friendliness.'
Browne, George Forrest (1833-1930) Bishop of BristolReports that she has been reading Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir 'with great interest', and claims that she continually recognises things in it to be true of both Henry and Nora. States that his influence was great, and claims to be very grateful for it. Refers to the claim in the book that the poems The Despot's Heir and Goethe and Frederika are the only two poems ever published by Henry; she was given a copy of one 'said to be Dr. Sidgwick's from the Spectator', and wonders if her informant was mistaken about this.
Encloses a copy of the poem [98/2], beginning with the line: 'God speaks to hearts of men in many ways;' - copied from the Spectator, September 1872.
Confesses that he has unintentionally thrown Sidgwick's letter, which had been signed by Jebb, into the fire. Hopes that he has another copy and expesses his regret. In relation to 'the matter', he admits that he is in some difficulty. Reports that he wrote to [Furnevale] as soon as he got 'his idiotic document', protesting against it and saying that if the [ ] truly had been in any way [ ], he [Stephen] would have resigned at once. The reply said that his views would be considered. Fears that his letter may be seen as condoning [Furnevale's] offence, and explains that he could not sign Sidgwick's letter. Proposes writing to the secretary of the N.I.I. giving notice of a motion for the following meeting, 'saying that the Society disapproves of [his] language and directing their disapproval to be communicated to H. Philipps.' Remarks that after such a letter as Sidgwick's the question 'should be raised in some such way, unless, of course, the Committee gives in at once.'
Stephen, Sir Leslie (1832-1904), knight, author and literary criticSays what a great shock it was to her to hear the news of Henry's death, and that he leaves a place 'not to be filled by any other.' Feels that her contact with him at Cambridge was 'one of the greatest and best things' that life has brought her, and that no other influence that she has come under could be put on the same level with his. Refers to his involvement in the cause of women's education.
Sharp, Amelia (1857-1939) suffragist and writerThanks him for his letter. Highly appreciates his advice, especially since Sidgwick's recommendation 'coincides exactly with what [he] had already determined on.' Claims that he would never have accepted the '"odds and ends" of work', which Sidgwick mentions, had it not been that he thought they were likely to help him on to something more permanent. Claims to have realised that there was no room for him in Cambridge, 'especially as McTaggart has taken up a line nearly identical with [his] own' and he thought it better to look for employment 'outside'. Looking for work outside Cambridge was, he maintains, against his natural inclination, and 'has so far ended in failure'. Having got over his disappointment in relation to this failure, he is now looking forward with great pleasure to 'a quiet period of more congenial work in Cambridge.' Refers to his 'fundamental defect', which, he believes, Sidgwick has characterised very well. Thanks him again for his kindness. Claims to have never expected much from him, because he disagrees with him in general opinion, and because his habits of thought and expression are rather antipathetic to Sidgwick's.
Mackenzie, John Stuart (1860-1935) philosopherSays 'an unwillingness to intrude' upon Nora's great sorrow has prevented her from writing until now. Asks her to let her express her deep sympathy with her, and her own grief at the loss of 'a friend and teacher so revered' as Henry. Refers to his kindness to her and to others, and the affection so many had felt for him, and says that one of the great privileges of her life has been that she 'came under the influence of a mind so elevated, so gently, and so true.'
Brooke, Emma Frances (1844-1896) novelistAsks Nora's opinion on the review of Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir in the Times. Believes that letters, 'delightful as they are have not all the charm of [Henry's] conversation.' Relates that she met a young lawyer called Mr [John?] Buchan some days previously, who commented in relation to the book that 'too much space in proportion had been given to the early letters'. States that 'John [her husband] is intensely interested [in the book]', but agrees with the aforementioned criticism. [Incomplete]
Strutt, Evelyn Georgiana Mary (1847-1934), née Balfour, wife of the 3rd Baron RayleighThanks Sidgwick for his 'refreshing and fraternal letter'. Refers to his father's sudden death, and to the fact that he himself was near death from 19 to 23 February, during much of which time he was unconscious. Attributes his survival to the care of [James Marshall?] Moorsom and Rowland Williams. Relates that the day after Sidgwick left him he had a visit from [Home] Lyon, who visited him every day for a fortnight, and from whom he learned 'many marvels' about which he desires to talk to Sidgwick. Informs him that Lyon was 'continually regretting [Sidgwick's] absence from that seance at Mrs [ 's]. Promises to send a letter from Lyon on to him. Refers again to his father's death. Intends to stay where he is. Asks Sidgwick to ask [Rich. Clav.] Jebb to come and spend the last week of the Easter vacation with him, as he is aware that Sidgwick intends to go to Paris at Easter. Reports that his aunt is with him.
Cowell, John Jermyn (1838-1867), alpinistnumbered 2(9) other missing from box.
Acknowledges receipt of Sidgwick's 'printed letter on the [compulsory] Greek question' [see 101/99], and states that he 'entirely and fully concur[s] with the views therein set forth.'
Browne, Edward Granville (1862-1926) Persian scholarAcknowledges receipt of Sidgwick's letter the previous day, and expresses regret that he would not see him that day as he has 'some very important and interesting news to tell [him]'. Tells Sidgwick to inform him as soon as he is settled in Cambridge. States that he only had seven days at Clifton as he was summoned back the previous Monday because his father was ill. Asks Sidgwick to find a Spiritist book that he lent to him entitled Le Docteur Houat, and asks him to write on it 'Henry Sidgwick 1865', and to send it on to him. Refers to 'Southern Independence' and owns to be 'full of pity and admiration; and of horror and burning indignation against the most wicked and hypocritical tyrants' who destroyed 'thirteen sovereign republics and subjugate[d] 8 millions of civilized men.'
Explains that she has hesitated to write to Nora sooner, lest a letter might seem almost an intrusion in the first weeks of Nora's great sorrow, but hopes that she will not mind her now ending a few lines to express her deep sympathy with her. States that all who have benefitted by Henry's 'self-sacrificing efforts in the cause of women's education realize how great a debt of gratitude is due to him', and that those, like herself, who had the privilege of attending his lectures and coming under the influence of his remarkable mind, 'are very conscious of all they owe him.' Trusts that Nora's health has not suffered and that she will still feel equal to go on with her work for the cause she and Henry 'have both been so devoted to.'
Finlay, Elizabeth (1853-1929) educationistStates that he has just seen Henry Sidgwick's letter [101/99, re compulsory Greek] issued that morning. Admits regretting having put his name to the statement, referred to as 'number "Two" ', which, he claims he did 'in haste, without verification....' Declares that it is some time since he read [Welldon's] speech. In relation to 'Dr. Jackson's point', referred to as 'number "One" ', asserts that the question is one of interpretation. Emphasises that he speaks only for himself, having consulted no one.
Bateson, William (1861-1926) biologistExplains that he has been busy with Ecclesiastical Commission business, and the 'Camb[ridge] Mod[ern] Hist[ory]', and has only just found time to read Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir. Writes to tell Nora how much he likes and admires it, referring to its self-restraint and dignity, and to the way in which the letters 'are left to tell their own story, aided by the excellent pieces of biography or incidental explanation here and there.'
Prothero, Sir George Walter (1848-1922) Knight, historianReports that '[t]he medallion of Sir Henry Maine has now been placed in the Abbey', and that since 'the fee required of the Abbey [ ] has unexpectedly been lowered below the amount originally mentioned', they now have a balance in hand of about £80. Asks his opinion on 'the proper disposal of this surplus money', Sidgwick having taken 'an active part in collecting subscriptions at Cambridge for the Memorial'. Mentions the putting up of a tablet or some other commemorative monument at Cambridge, 'in Trinity Hall or elsewhere', and expresses his willingness to lay Sidgwick's suggestions before Lord Cross and the Committee. Suggests that he might like to consult others 'who may be interested in the matter', but emphasises that here he is not writing under his authority.
Lyall, Sir Alfred Comyn (1835-1911) Knight, administrator in India, and writerObserves that 'there does not appear to be any English book worth much as a systematic statement of any political theory.' In answer to a question asked by Sidgwick, he suggests the names and works of writers on politics, economy and philosophy, and comments on their writings. Refers to Locke's Treatises on Government; Liberty Lord Bolingbroke's Patriot King; Hume's political essays; any of Burke's works, including the speeches on American taxation and on economical reform, as well as 'the reflexions on [the] French Revolution', which 'preceded Godwin and are therefore not included [ ] by your limit of time...'; Tom Paine; Bentham's Fragment on Government, which, he believes is 'too much in the controversial way and dependent upon [a] Blackstone'; [Priestley]; [Tucker]. Admits that he has given too long a list, and states that his preference would be for Locke, Hume, Burke, Godwin and Bentham.
Stephen, Sir Leslie (1832-1904), knight, author and literary criticReports 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'.
Stephen, Sir Leslie (1832-1904), knight, author and literary criticDoes not wish to intrude upon Nora, but wishes her to know what a real personal sorrow she feels at the death of Henry Sidgwick. It was he more than any other person who made Cambridge what it was and is to her: 'a source of the best sort of inspiration', which she got from his lectures. Says that he made her love him personally, 'as well as almost reverence him.' Adds that her husband wishes Nora to know that he too 'had all this feeling for Dr. Sidgwick'.
Sanger, Anna Dorothea (1865-1955) wife of Charles Percy SangerThanks Nora for 'the old letters', of which he keeps a few 'for old time's sake.' Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir is 'full of interest'; wishes that there was more of the correspondence with Tennyson on English versification. Discusses the make-up of English verse. Remarks on an observation in the book on moral problems, and to another remark on authors' disgust with their works. Refers also to Henry's 'abrupt dropping of Arabic', and remarks that he would have expected him to keep it as a recreation. Refers to having reluctantly given up Sanskrit himself, and reports that a tour in the west of Ireland has set him 'dabbling in Gaelic....'
Pollock, Sir Frederick (1845-1937), 3rd Baronet, juristThanks him for his letter of 16 May. Is glad to hear that he finds time to read his dissertation on Individualism, and would be very grateful to know his and Mrs Sidgwick's opinion on it. In relation to the Aberdeen lectureship, owns not to really care very much about it. Claims that his ability 'to express thoughts clearly in English has been sufficiently proved by public lectures in Glasgow University and in the Oxford Philological Society'. Also refers to the fact that he has taught psychology for three years in the University of [Karan]. Does not expect a favourable decision of the University Court, however, and has sent his application 'without testimonials of any kind'. Believes himself to be most qualified for the post. Does not consider such things as earning or a good position as essential to the fulfilment of his real aims. Reports that William James has written to him that there is some probability of his being invited to lecture on individualistic philosophy in the United States in the winter. Sends his best regards to Mrs Sidgwick.
Lutosławski, Wincenty (1863-1954) philosopherThanks Nora for the copy of Henry Sidgwick: A Memoir; has read a good deal of it. Says he is again impressed with the charm of [Henry's] style in the letters.' Miss Johnson hasinformed him that Nora would like him to write a review of the book for the Society for Psychical Research proceedings: would be honoured to do so. Relates that William Sidgwick of Shipton and his nephew [also William Sidgwick] 'gave evidence before [the] Faculty Committee of 1816, and regrets to say that 'they worked their mills 14 hours a day.' Offers to send Nora 'the blue book.'
Asks Sidgwick if he remembers his visit five years previously and their correspondence in relation to Sidgwick's article in Mind. Declares that since then, he has progressed in the expression of his views, having written 'a big book to prove that Plato did not always remain an appearance of something else, but that he became at last a true Being himself.' Refers to his last letter of Christmas 1894 'asking too many indiscreet questions', which Sidgwick left unanswered. Announces that he has written a work entitled Über die Grundvoraussetzungen und Konsequenzen der individualistischen Weltanschauung, in which he has developed the thoughts contained in his first letter to Sidgwick. Wishes to know Sidgwick's opinion on the work, which was recently published in Helsingfors, and sends a copy to him together with two other pamphlets - 'an account of Polish philosophy and a new theory of affinities of style, founded on a detailed investigation of Plato's style' - [not included].
Reports that after five years of research, he now wishes to return to teaching, and has been received by the University of Cracow as a 'Privatdocent', and will begin lecturing on psychology and logic in October. Expresses the hope of starting 'a true school of Polish philosophy.' Contemplates applying for the vacant Anderson lectureship of psychology in Aberdeen. Asks Sidgwick if he believes that they would 'object on general grounds to a foreigner?' Remembers 'with sincere gratitude' Sidgwick's kindness, and hopes one day to visit him again in Cambridge. Sends his regards to Mrs Sidgwick.
Lutosławski, Wincenty (1863-1954) philosopherWishes to see his name attached to Sidgwick's letter calling for the abolition of compulsory Greek. Anxious not to be seen as 'a half-hearted adherent'.
Adami, John George (1862–1926) pathologistThanks Sidgwick for his letter, but clarifies that his gratitude is for Sidgwick's intention, which was, he assumes, to please the recipient. Reports that he had begun another note to Sidgwick in which he had tried to explain his view of the '"moral sense"', but he found it difficult to make his meaning clear in a short space. Discusses the meaning of approval and disapproval, liking and disliking. States that he has often thought 'of writing an essay on the sense of shame which would bring out the point, but it becomes indecent.'
Stephen, Sir Leslie (1832-1904), knight, author and literary critic2, Cheyne Gardens. - Has sent Bob's letter to [Kenneth?] Swan. Glad that Bob is returning to the Lake Hunt. Has been hearing a lot about India from 'various persons, white and brown' and has become 'quite a Tagorite, under the teaching of Yeats, W[illiam] Rothenstein' and a pupil of Tagore. Tagore has 'stopped Yeats being mad on magic and small green elephants' and without 'his magic nonsense, Yeats is one of the really splendid people'. The [First] Balkan war 'bids fair to end very well'. Wonders 'whether Goldie [Dickinson] will like his Chinaman as little as the Webbs [Sidney and Beatrice] when he meets (and smells) them'. Sees from the address that Bessie has given that Bob will be there for this 'great meeting'; hopes that Goldie will not be like Matthew Arnold, whom H[enry] Sidgwick said judged 'everything by its smell' like a dog. Glad that Bob has had some good bathes, but tells him not to be 'eaten of [sic] crocodiles', since Mary would never be able to read "Peter Pan" again if Bob 'suffered the fate of Capt. Hook'. Has just finished writing "[The Life of John] Bright" and hopes to publish it in May or June.