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Reports that Arthur told him before Easter that he would prefer to have Henry's later reminiscences [for Arthur's Life of Edward White Benson], in spite of the difficulties that they had discussed. States that he wrote them and sent them to him about ten days previously, and that the first part of them has arrived in proof that morning. Wishes her to tell him if there is anything that he has said which she does not quite like, and suggests that it might be possible to remove such parts altogether, and that it would certainly be possible to modify the work. Believes that the first part is 'disagreeably egotistical', but thought it necessary to convey 'both the point of view from which, and the conditions under which, the ideas [he wishes] to convey about Edward were formed'. States that he has told Arthur that he is quite free to modify the work as he sees fit, but reiterates that he would like to have Minnie's view before he sends the proofs back. Asks if she will come to visit him and Nora the following summer. States that they shall be in Cambridge almost all the time until the end of August, and could take them in any time during term 'except Sundays and any time after term is over.' Refers to 'the question of the House', about which Minnie is still undecided, and to her aspirations which '[ ] Thomas S[ ] does not satisfy.' Explains that the news was obtained from Edward Sidgwick. Sends Nora's love.

Refers to the fact that she is off to Florence in early April. Asks her to send him a postcard to let him know whether he shall find her at home on the following Monday, or whether he had better come on Tuesday. Announces that he and Nora and Arthur [Sidgwick or Benson?] are going to be in London for two or three days, and reports that they are not quite well again after a bout of influenza. They think that they have had enough of sea air, and that Arthur will give her the details. Claims that he has not quite got over 'a certain depression of energy and spirits', which were a result of his illness, but 'can detect no flaw' in his organic condition. Reports that he has been reading much light literature, but none that has left much impression on him, apart from the last story in George Meredith's book of three stories.

Title not given in text; first line, 'Friend, of my infinite dreams...'

Letters from before the book was published through to many years after publication. Letters include one from "E" [Reginald Brett, 2nd Viscount Esher] to A. C. B. [A. C. Benson?], a letter of congratulation on his fellowship from Lord Grey, a letter from Lord Spencer in 1914, a letter from A. V. Dicey to H. M. Butler in July 1914, a cutting from the Morning Post in July 1914, two letters from Frederic G. Kenyon in July 1923, a cutting from The Times dated Feb. 1924, and a letter about a pamphlet referenced in the book from Joseph Hamburger in August 1959.

Explains that he did not answer her letter about Chris [Benson?] because he wanted to find out more than he then knew about the demand for modern language teaching. Reports that he has now ascertained that the two teachers whom they have appointed to teach the medieval languages (Romance and old Teutonic) 'will probably try to get pupils in modern languages.' Believes that if they do 'the supply of teaching will at least equal the demand, so that there will be no opening at all.' Thinks that in any case it would be a very risky thing for Chris to do. Does not believe that the number of men who will take up modern languages will be great. States that there is a German and a French teacher officially employed at Newnham, besides the two medieval teachers. Thinks that Chris would probably pick up a few pupils, but believes it to be a risky enterprise. Wishes to talk the matter over with her.

Mentions that Arthur [Benson?] says that she and her family may all be to coming [to Cambridge] for a Sunday in November. Asks if she could come for 22 November, when he expects that he and Nora should be 'quite alone'. Adds that Nora sends her love and begs her to come. Asks her to come on 29 if 22 November does not suit; Lord Justice Bowen and possibly Rayleigh will be with them then.

Tells Nora not to reply; has asked Arthur Benson to let him know how Henry is from time to time. Expresses his sympathy with Nora, and asks her to give his love to Henry, who is 'one of the best and truest friends' he ever had. Is pained to hear of his suffering.

Confirms that the box arrived. Regrets to hear that she is not yet recovered; he did not realise how ill she was, probably because she was doing so much, but declares that he ought to have known her better by this time. Is glad that she thinks that Martin [Benson] is like him, and hopes that he will turn out better; says he thinks a 'tide' in his own affairs, a few years ago, might have 'led [him] to greatness' had he taken it and hopes Martin may 'have as good opportunities and make more use of them'. Remarks that Martin surprised him by the extent to which he appreciated things, but thought that he had 'less character than Arthur', which may also be true of Henry himself when he is compared with either of his brothers.

Refers to Dr [Rowland] Williams, and admits to have been impressed with 'his courteous deference to the opinions of those who were arguing with him, and his candour'. Reports that Cowell has slight disease of the lungs, but states that the dangerous part of the ailment is the heart, which his father believes that he cannot get over. Of his pupil Lord Lorne, remarks that he is not very intellectual, but very charming. Reports that he did not see any more of 'the young ladies' of whom his mother speaks. Tells her to dismiss the notion that she may have had that he was 'making love to one of them.' Declares that his is studying Metaphysics, which is 'very absorbing', but bad for the digestion. Confirms that he knows Carlos Smith slightly, and states that he is a very accomplished man. Informs her that 'he plays beautifully on the piano and knows six languages.' Reports that he stayed two days with his friend Noel, who is also 'absorbed in Metaphysics'. Says he knows nothing about Ecce homo [by J. R. Seeley, published anonymously] but reports that everyone there speaks highly of it; had decided not to read it after seeing a review, but realises he will have to. Expresses his extreme regret at hearing about Tryphosa [Lace, his cousin].

Announces that Mrs Offley [Carey] has forgotten to send him a [ghost] story, which she had undertaken to do, and asks Minnie to remind her. To facilitate matters, he sends the story in the form in which it has already been communicated to them [not included], and refers to certain elements for which he desires evidence. Reports that he and Nora have been visiting relations in Yorkshire, and that they received many enquiries in relation to Minnie. Reports that they were all very cordial. They stayed chiefly at the Raikes [home of Robert Hodgson Sidgwick], and also with the Stephen Marshalls, and went over to Riddlesden [home of Sarah Hannah Sidgwick] to dine. Remarks that 'Aunt Sidgwick' was 'much changed (since /71!) but wonderfully well...for her age.'

Hopes that Minnie is enjoying her 'Park'. Sends his and Nora's love to all, and asks Minnie to remind Arthur [Benson?] that he thought he could get some stories for them from the Dean of Windsor. Adds that his uncle informed him of the earliest forms of the name Sidgwick - from 1379. Remarks on the presence of an 'l', as in 'Syggleiswyk', and 'Seglewyk', and states that a version from two centuries later is the one he is thinking of adopting: 'Seeggeswyke'.

Thanks her for her enclosures. Asks who Mrs F[ ] was, and whether he knows her personally, as he wishes to write to her 'in a proper tone'. Also thanks her for her and Edward's congratulations, and admits that he is very happy to have a stable position [as Knightbridge Professor of Moral Philosophy at Cambridge], and explains that his work involves a great deal of organisation. Claims to feel that he has got too old for 'the pleasure' of that degree of professional success.

States that he and Nora are very glad that there is no reason to be alarmed about Edward. Regrets that 'he has not been able to sleep as much as Mr Gladstone', who, he heard, used to sleep for nine or ten hours when he was confined to bed as a result of an accident. Asks if she ever heard from Mrs Offley [Carey] about her story, and if not, asks her if she could 'mildly stir her up to write what she promised'.

Nora adds that Henry asked her to explain 'the situation about the "[Birch]" '. States that the Gurneys [Edmund or Frederick and family?] 'have offered themselves for the Friday in that week over the Sunday', and that if Minnie did not think Tuesday would be her [especial] day, Henry would ask Arthur [Benson or Sidgwick?]'s friend for that night, 'leaving Wednesday and Thursday free.' Suggest that if it is only Minnie and Maggie that are coming, there is nothing to prevent them from being there 'with either or both sets of people'. [Incomplete]

Refers to 'a "Biograph" of December', which Nora sends to Minnie. Explains that it is an 'Organ of opinion', which 'contains the Lives of really eminent men - not the people whose names appear in the newspapers, but those who Mould the Age.' Emphasises that it should not be shown to anyone.

Reports that Miss M[oberly] 'has just come out practically first in the Moral Sciences Tripos', but that her name does not appear publicly, as she has only been examined informally. Recounts that '[t]he joke is that she and another Newnham student [Miss Finlay] are the only candidates whose work has come up to first-class standard!' They have paid off all the debt on Newnham, and that it is now a business paying its way, 'owning a capital of two houses which when they are full yield a fair endowment fund, for exhibitions, future buildings etc'; and thinks that 'for the first time in ten years... the institution can stand alone, altogether independent of my fostering care', although he does not want this to be noised about as they 'can still do with donations, etc'.

Claims to be '[chaffed] in Hall' because his nephew [Arthur Benson] is said to have brought forward, in the King's debating society, a motion to the effect that the higher education of women is undesirable. He has been informed that the motion was carried by eleven votes to ten. Sends Nora's love, and announces that they are going to Scotland 'in a week or so for most of the holidays.'

Asks whether Arthur [Benson] is coming up to Cambridge for the Trinity Scholarship Exam, and states that he and Nora shall be delighted to take him in at Newnham College. Announces that they shall be staying up until the end of Easter week 'and can offer him a selection among about 35 eligible apartments.'

Says that she should write and congratulate him 'on the distinctions which the Learned World is conferring' on him: the University of Glasgow is to make him an L.L.D. 'about April 29th', and that Trinity College has just decided to make him an Honorary Fellow. He and Nora are well; the North Hall [at Newnham] 'is apparently prosperous'; Nora 'is rather overworked but cheerful'; and he is 'putting through the press a book on the Theory of Political Economy.'

Refers to 'the triumph of the 24th of February', and claims that he 'shall never forget the astonishment with which [he] realised that the Senate House was full of about 400 M.A.s and that...they were all going to vote on the right side [in favour of the education of women at Cambridge]' with 'the Enemy' only about thirty in number States that he does not feel elated by the proceedings, as he claims 'a natural aversion to responsibility', and does 'not underestimate the difficulties and perils of the future'.

Reports that Arthur and Charlotte [Sidgwick] have both been over that term, but separately, the latter having come with Margaret Arnold, 'who has been performing at a concert with Joachim.' Mentions that 'her young man [Hugh Frank Newall] wants a post as scientific-mathematical master in some school', and tells Minnie to suggest him if she hears of such a post. States that all was well at Oxford when they last heard news from there; that William is fairly well, and that the alarm about Nevil is over. Asks for news from Minnie, including 'the last particular of Church work. Sends his love to all. Adds that [Thomas Edward] Brown's poems Fo'c's'le Yarns are out. Suggests that she buys them, or persuades her friends to buy them.

Reports that Frank Balfour 'has been for some days in severe fever', and typhoid has been suspected. Claims that some improvement has latterly taken place, and that the pain has somewhat subsided. Refers to the compilation of complaints at Crescent Villa, which they heard about just before Balfour's illness. Hopes that they are all well. Reports that he has seen Arthur [Benson?], and that the same afternoon he came Miss E[llie] Hopkins also called, and absorbed Henry's conversation. Asks her to ask Edward to vote for A.V. Dicey if he should be in the Athenaeum Club between 4 and 6 pm on 20 February. Reports that all is well in Newnham, and that Miss Gladstone is going to be the next Vice President. Explains that it is not yet formally settled, and asks her not to talk of it.

Declares that he was 'thinking rather sadly' of his birthday, when her letter came and cheered him up. Refers to their conversation in London, and claims that he does not want to bring her to his position, to which he believes himself to be suited, despite its 'grave defects and disadvantages'. States that he cannot take the responsibility of drawing anyone else to it, nor to placing obstacles in their way. Claims to have 'some results of thought on theological and ethical questions which...may be profitable to others who are led on other ways in the wanderings of Spirits'. Offers to answer any questions that she may have on the matter.

Confirms that he and Nora are leaving on Tuesday for Davos, and states that they shall be in Switzerland for a month, and then at Newnham until about 10 September. After that they propose to visit Minnie and Edward, and asks her to tell him when would not suit. Reports that Nora is away for two nights in London. Refers to Nellie, and apologises for having troubled Minnie in relation to her situation. Explains that he wishes to do all he can to prevent the establishment of a denominational College at Newnham. Hopes that Nellie will like Oxford. Declares that he was glad when Arthur's scholarship was settled. Tells her that she will have to come and see him in Cambridge next May Term. Sends his love to all, and asks if they can find out anything for her in the Alps.

In Nora Sidgwick's hand. Declares his aim: to give an account of his life - mainly his inner intellectual life - 'as shall render the central and fundamental aims that partially at least determined its course when apparently most fitful and erratic, as clear and intelligible as [he] can.' Refers to biographical information in 'the Life of Edward Benson' [by A. C. Benson], in which he noted 'the great change that took place about the middle of [his] undergraduate time', which was triggered by his becoming a member of the discussion society known as the Apostles. Refers to a description of the latter in the late Dean Merivale's autobiography. Describes the spirit of the society as that of 'the pursuit of truth with absolute devotion and unreserved by a group of intimate friends, who were perfectly frank with each other and indulgent in any amount of humourous [sic] sarcasm and playful banter....' Emphasises the importance of sincerity, but not necessarily of gravity in its discussions. Had at first been reluctant to join the society, as he believed that it would interfere with his work for his two triposes, but came to feel that no part of his life at Cambridge was so real to him as the Saturday evenings he spent at the meetings at which Apostolic debates were held.

It was many years before he was to embrace the study of philosophy as his life's work: the reasons for this were partly financial. He had to accept the Classical lectureship that was offered to him on October 1859, and therefore had to devote a considerable amount of time to classical study. He also allowed himself 'to be seduced into private tuition as a means of increasing [his] income.' Adds that Cambridge vacations being long, he had a good deal of spare time, and he began a systematic study of philosophy, reading J.S. Mill's works. Discusses the influence that the latter had on him, but adds that he was 'by no means [then] disposed to acquiesce in negative or agnostic answers', and hat he had not in any way broken with the orthodox Christianity in which he had been brought up, though he had been sceptical of it.

Refers also to his study of theology and political economy. In 1862 he was very impressed by Renan's Essai [Études] d'histoire religieuse, and derived from that work that it was 'impossible really to understand at first hand Christianity as a historical religion without penetrating more deeply the mind of the Hebrews and of the Semitic stock from which they sprang.' This led him to devote much time to studying Arabic and Hebrew. Refers to an article he wrote on [J. R. Seeley's] Ecce Homo in the Westminster Review of July 1863, in which he reveals the provisional conclusions that he had formed with regard to Christianity. Says he found some relief from the great internal debate on the subjects of Christianity, Scepticism and Agnosticism in the renewal of his linguistic studies. His study of Arabic and Hebrew literature and history led him to think that he might secure one of the two professorships in Arabic at Cambridge. Believed that the inclusion of theology in the remit of the single chair of Moral Philosophy made it unlikely that he would attain this, since he was neither a clergyman nor orthodox.

Began to realise that the study of Arabic and Hebrew were drawing him away from 'the central problems which constituted [his] deepest interest', and the study of philosophy and theology began again to occupy more of his time. He accepted the examinership in the Moral Sciences Tripos, and was later offered a lectureship in Moral Science in exchange for his classical lectureship, and accepted. Determined to throw himself into the work of making a philosophical school in Cambridge. Had meanwhile been led back to the study of philosophy 'by a quite different line [of thought]', which led him to question whether he should keep his fellowship or not. Refers to his work The Methods of Ethics, and thoughts systematised therein. Note here by Nora Sidgwick refers to remarks made by Henry in relation to the 'miraculous birth' [of Jesus], the Resurrection and Ascension.

Also refers to psychical research, and his desire to attain direct proof of continual individual existence, 'which he regarded as necessary from an ethical point of view.' In relation to the education of women, states that he took up this cause 'as a piece of practically useful work for mankind', and that he turned his thoughts towards it after he had given up his fellowship.

Nora adds that the above information was written down from recollection 'not immediately after he said it.' Envelope accompanies 105/46-50. Addressed to Nora Sidgwick at Newnham College. Label "some MS notes, including 'Autobiographical Fragment', and 'Henry's instructions about his unfinished work etc.'"

Ten letters from:

• Lord Haldane, 2 Mar. 1906, 6 July 1916
• George Otto Trevelyan, 20 Oct. 1920, 1 Dec. 1912, 31 Jan. 1914, 16 Jan. 1923
• Henry Montagu Butler, 30 Jan. 1914
• Arthur C. Benson, 11, 13 June 1924
• Montague John Rendall, 20 July 1916

They are beginning to work again, and are preparing for a very long term; wishes that 'Convocation, instead of persecuting some miserable heretic, would fix Easter to the same day of the month every year'. Remarks that he should have written all his letters on his visits instead of having them all to write now when he ought to be reading Euripides. Enjoyed all his visits very much: found [Oscar] Browning just returned from Paris where he had been inspecting French schools. Refers to a letter of Brownings in Tuesday's Times, signed O.B. Remarks on the lack of freedom in French schools, and a Frenchman's views that English boys were 'beaucoup plus sages: mais... beaucoup moins intelligents' [much better behaved, but much less intelligent].

Reports that he was in Wellington College, but states that he 'could have dispensed with the [Isackes], who he found became a bore. Observes that Martin 'is growing interesting',and remarks what a thorough Sidgwick he is. Predicts that 'the other boy [Arthur] will be much finer-looking', and asserts that the baby [Nelly] looks like Minnie. Asks his mother when she expects Arthur [home], and reports that he has heard of him from Cobb, who has been in Dresden. Mentions that his friend Payne is gone as a master to Wellington College, and asks her to tell this to Arthur. Hopes that she enjoyed her visit to Oxford. Asks her to send two books that he left: The Statesman's Yearbook and 'Colonel Browne's Persian MS'. Reports that he read 'a delicious story in the Cornhill of Feb. called "Tid's old Red rag of a shawl".' Would like to know by whom it was written, as it is 'by no hand familiar' to Sidgwick, and 'wonderfully fresh, animated, and original' [the author was Henrietta Keddie].

Fears that most of his book [The Methods of Ethics] would give her 'more trouble than it is worth', but recommends Book 1, chapter five, on Free Will, and Book 3, chapter five on Justice, if she is inclined to try any of it. Is sorry to hear about Arthur [Benson]'s rheumatism [see also ADD.MS.c/101/137]. States that he would like to go to Lincoln, but says that after a round of visits ending with Rugby he shall be engaged for the rest of the vacation between Cambridge and London. A 'certain Scientific Investigation' is to take place in the latter. Refers to Ada's enterprise [Ada Benson was elected headmistress of Norwich High School, which opened on 22 Feb 1875], and claims that he was the author of '[ ] of the "Good Testimonials"'. Hopes that she will succeed.

Typewritten copy. The only other thing that occurs to him about Thompson is that he was 'an admirable writer of letters': he himself had several from him on various occasions, which were all good, 'in their different styles, [always] easy and delicate, saying just what was intended without apparent effort.' Suggests that Arthur look at the Athenaeum of the previous Saturday, 'where there is a notice by someone well informed (probably Jackson).' Believes that there are also two notices in the Saturday [Review, but has not had time to read them.

Typewritten copy. Remarks on some aspects of an article Arthur is writing on [W.H?] Thompson. Gives his own impressions of Thompson: that, despite his 'illnatured sayings', he was a kind man; recalls the enjoyment he derived from conversing with him. SHas decided not to write an obituary notice for him, because, despite having a real admiration for the man, he has 'always regarded his life as a failure, 'because though the quality of his production was excellent, its quantity was so very meagre.' Believes that although he was not made to be a great thinker or 'epoch-making scholar', he might have done a great work 'in the way of mediating between ancient thought and the modern spirit.' Undertakes to send anything else he thinks worth saying on the subject, and expresses the desire to see Arthur's article.

Thanks him for sending [Roden] Noel's poems. Reports that Arthur has [James Russell?] Lowell's new volume and likes it very much. Claims that the amount of writing she had to do that term has prevented her from doing very much reading. Reports that she has not been able to do much about Fred Horton and his education, and that at present he is attempting some old Scholarship Examination papers, which she sent to him. Mentions St John's Foundation School at Clapton, and what Edward has told her about it.

Informs Henry that Arthur wishes him to know he will not now go abroad at Easter, as [Fred] Myers has taken ill and cannot go. Arthur thinks that he will go away as soon as he can. States that she will be very glad to see Henry either on 18 or 21 March, and Trevelyan if he comes any time between 18 and 25 March. Expects Edward, Minnie and their two eldest boys on 25 March, and states that Edward wants to go to Cambridge to finish some book that he is bringing out. Minnie is to stay in Rugby until he takes her to pay a visit to the Bishop of Hereford.

Regrets to hear that Henry has been suffering from strained nerves and sleeplessness, and suggests that he take a holiday. Admits to being a little worried about William because of his lack of correspondence since 29 January, and that she hears from Mr [Mandell?] Creighton that he has written to no Oxford friend since he left. Refers to Minnie's domestic problems. Asks to be remembered to Mrs Kingsley [?], and reports that Miss Temple has been very ill.

Explains that he has been busy with much official correspondence. Confirms that he will try to go to Rugby at Christmas, and states that there are other engagements which may prevent him. Reports that he nearly went to Oxford [where his mother now lives] at the beginning of the term, but was prevented at the last moment by business in Cambridge. States that the 'Education of Women' hampers his movements more than would otherwise be the case.

Hopes that she does not find the work of establishment very tiring, and notes that she does not mention whether Mary has arranged matters 'with her "young man" ', and when she is going to leave her. Reports that Edward is with him in Cambridge, and that he gave very good accounts of Mary and the children; 'Martin has already plunged into ephemeral literature and become a contributor to the Wykehamist [the Winchester College school magazine]'. Refers also to Arthur and Edward. In relation to his enquiries into Spiritualism, reports that he does not have much to tell about them. Believes that the young men in Cambridge are beginning to become very interested in the subject. Admits that he had forgotten about the G[ ], and states that he will go and give her message.

[Sent from Lincoln]:- Explains that he has been putting off writing because of 'a sense of incompleteness' about his life. Considers his life 'in three aspects'; in relation to his book [The Methods of Ethics], in relation to his enquiry into Spiritualism, and in relation to 'the holiday-making which may be supposed to be the proper business of the month of August.' Reports that Macmillan has decided to take on his book, and to give him half profits. Had urged Macmillan to show a portion of the MS to Mr John Morley, the editor of the Fortnightly Review, because it is 'written in a rather obscure and technical style, intended primarily for students', he [Henry] feared that it was unfair on Macmillan to ask him to take the risk of publishing the book, but Morley said that the book ought to generate a fair amount of interest, and to pay its expenses. Reports that since then he has been correcting proof sheets.

States that he has plenty of time to spare and has been researching Spiritualism. Reports that he went to stay with Lord Rayleigh early in August to meet Mrs Jencken, 'one of the original Fox girls, in connexion with whom these singular phenomena first attracted attention in America in 1848.' Declares that they heard 'an abundance of "raps" ', but that the experiment that they were trying did not succeed. After leaving Rayleigh he spent a fortnight at Hallsteads. Reports that 'many remarkable phenomena had occurred there before [he] arrived, which were all the more interesting because there was no public medium', and gives details of these incidents. Declares that Hallsteads [home of Walter and Annie Marshall] to be a charming place, and that he enjoyed his stay there very much. Reports that all at Lincoln [new home of his sister and brother-in-law] are well, that Mary is apparently very well, and that the boys are 'in excellent spirits.' Offers his 'sincere commiserations on the matrimonial engagement', and hopes that she is bearing up against the blow.

Claims that her days are busier as she has 'these two dear boys [Martin and Arthur Benson] still' with her, and they have 'small lessons daily.' Reports that Minnie is much better, and gives a description of her daily activities. Complains that William has not written to her since he was at Wellington College early in August. Reports that Arthur has written, and determines to go and see William if Arthur's letter brings no answer.

Is unsure as to whether she has written to Henry since returning from Leeds, and refers to 'that sorrow' [of her sister-in-law Ellen Croft's death]. States that Henry's Aunt Henrietta 'is with them now', and thinks that her present is a great comfort to his Uncle John and the children. Relates that a lady is being sought to take charge of his household, and that she has heard of 'an admirable Swiss Lady, with more than all the requisite qualifications....' Reports that William Crofts returns to Merton on the following Friday or Saturday, that Ernest will stay with his father until Christmas, and that Arthur is to live at home and 'go to business at once'.

Reports that Minnie has Miss Edwardes- 'a younger companion - staying with her. States that they have been expecting Dr Goulburn to preach for the Fox Memorial Sermon at Rugby the following day, but that he had a accident and is now confined to bed, and that Dr Temple has asked Edward instead. Reports that she has just had to send a very unfavourable report of Alfred Sidgwick's health to the Raikes, and his mother is to arrive that day. Relates that Mr Helm thinks he should go to some warm place for the winter. Expresses the wish that Henry might come to Rugby for a Sunday during term time. Adds that Trevelyan arrived at Rugby the day she came from Leeds and stayed nearly a week there. [Incomplete.]

Contains a letter from A C Benson concerning the copying of his father's diaries

Is in Cambridge for the term, 'plunged in Examinations' has not had very much holiday, as he has been spending most of his time in reading at the British Museum. Reports that he went down to Wellington College in Passion Week, and that Mary seemed much better, but he was concerned that 'there was something not healthy in the flush on her face, which told of headache.' Reports that the boys seemed well, that Arthur especially 'is much developed by his school[']s experience' and that when Henry left Arthur was 'endeavouring to compose a Latin Elegiac poem on the consecration...of C[ ] Church'.

Reports that Edward is 'full of Lincoln and the Mediæval chapter and the neo-mediæval chapter about to be revived in that favoured town.' Thinks that 'he feels the difficulty of realising his ideal without more aid than he is certain to get.' States that 'they are anxious about the election of a new headmaster [at Wellington College]', which was to be decided the following week. Thanks her for her information about his godson, and states his intention to go and see the boy in June. Supposes that she does not want books to read, as otherwise he would recommend Trollope's Australia [and New Zealand]. Reports that he stayed a night with the [Roden?] Noels, and that Mrs Noel asked after his mother.