Unità documentaria 184 - Letter from James Ward to Henry Sidgwick

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Refers to their talk the previous night, and to Sidgwick's 'generous proposals'. Asks if Sidgwick thinks that the Seniority would let him lecture as his substitute the following Lent term, assuming that Sidgwick makes the proposal. Feels duty-bound to lecture on Psychology the following year, and thinks that it would be of advantage to him to lecture as Sidgwick's deputy. Does not agree with Sidgwick's plan to resign outright. Believes that the latter will be elected as Professor of Moral Philosophy before long. Speculates on what Trinity College would do 'in such a case'. Remarks that appointments by the University under new statutes 'have...a very small present value.' Thinks that he ought to 'take the first any way eligible post that offers elsewhere', but if he could be certain of taking over some of Sidgwick's college duties, he would be willing to wait for a place on the college staff that would ensure him of the retention of the tenure of his fellowship. Explains that what he values about a Cambridge appointment is 'the greater leisure and greater specialization'. Is aware of the danger of 'drifting on in uncertainty'. Declares that under the old statutes he has two years left, and he understands that it takes about that time to get a school inspectorship. Refers to Sidgwick's kind proposition as 'embarrassingly generous'.