His Early Struggles 



33 



much as it is quite typical of such mid- Victorian 

 epistles I have decided to divulge it. 



Letter of 22nd July, 1871. " Permit me to 

 forward you the enclosed contribution to Natural 

 History, being the result of studies of former 

 times, but discontinued and abandoned for more 

 than two years, having disposed of all conveniences 

 for the purpose. I enclose also an extract from 

 a letter sent to me by a Professor of Science in 

 Cape Town, who gives the views of a lady, 

 personally unknown to me, on my essay. As it 

 has evidently given pleasure to one unknown lady, 

 perhaps another lady who is known may find 

 something in it to appreciate. Also pardon me, 

 if I have done wrong in writing to you, which I 

 sincerely hope I have not, and kindly let me know 

 as early as possible whether the paper is acceptable, 

 and whether I can send you any more magazines 

 etc. Had your departure not been so sudden, I 

 should have availed myself of the first opportunity 

 to ascertain your sentiments on my conduct in 

 sending you the magazines, but having no 

 opportunity, except at the office, I thought it not 

 fair to take advantage of your calling on business, 

 lest I should prevent you coming again. 



"As I am anxious you should receive this 

 letter, or in the event of any accident it should 

 be returned to me, I have for security registered 



