Item 190 - Letter from Mary Sidgwick to Henry Sidgwick

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Says she was glad to receive his letter the previous night, and knew nothing beyond the fact that he and Nora were at Rugby. States that she would have joined their 'happy quartette' if she had been feeling better. Refers to Dr Andrew Clark's treatment, which she has begun. Reports having given up cocoa, and having changed her diet. Claims to be much more comfortable as regards her teeth, and hopes that she will not have to see Mr Rogers again for some time. Reports that she had a very pleasant letter from Charlotte [Sidgwick?], who seemed to have enjoyed Henry and Nora's visit. Refers to their imminent marriage, and suggests that he might like her to be there. States that Lucy Sidgwick has asked her if she will stay there all the time, but that she 'could only thank her and leave it uncertain.'

Reports that William has not been well, and that this has made him anxious to get away from Guernsey, but that the Head Master there depends on him, and has been unable to get a substitute. Refers to Isabel's last letter, in which she expresses the hope to be back by May. Asks Henry to accept the watch and chain [not included],and states that she will think of something else that he will like quite as well. Adds that there is his Uncle Lace's ten pounds and five pounds from his Uncle Robert, which he wishes her to help him in spending. Reports that he wrote very kindly about Henry's marriage.

Says that she would like to be 'an old Rugbeian on Sunday evening, to see that kind, good face, and hear those delightful harsh tones....' Relates that Mrs Talbot of Keble is very friendly with Ada [Benson], and that when Mrs [Agnes?] Wickham was staying with her 'she called upon Ada and told her everything delightful of Nora.' Reports that Mrs Vernon Harcourt came to see her the previous day and that 'she said she had often hear her sisters in law the Miss Harcourts speak of her as they lived in Carlton Gardens.' Refers to the fact that Oxford is 'going to keep' Professor Max Muller. Reports that Ada 'heard all the Discussions in [conversation] thro' Mr Bradley's kindness and then dined with the Max Mullers....' Adds that Mrs Muller is a great friend of Ada's. Expresses the wish that some professorship could be raised for 'poor William'.