Item 79 - Letter from W.W. Skeat to Henry Sidgwick

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Thanks Sidgwick for his 'kind congratulations.' Reports that he is to be on a board, and 'shall be delighted to do what [he] can to encourage modern and mediaeval languages.' States that he would be extremely glad to go on with lectures on Early English, on Chaucer, if required, and anything relating to the early period; but draws the line at AD 1400. States that a lecturer on Shakespeare is to be found. Suggests that 'a young fellow of Trinity or some other college' could be found to lecture on the subject. Declares that he would be glad to find anyone who would read Chaucer, with a view to lecturing on him. Relates that Professor Cowell often gave him free lectures in Sanskrit, and states that he wishes to take the same view of his professional functions; he would give two lectures to any student who desires them. Reiterates that the subject read should be anterior to AD 1400.