From W. E. Darwin to G. H. Darwin [October 1874]

My dear Geo.

It seems to me the R.I. is not an ordeal it is necessary to go thro'—for you; for a man in public or professional life it may be necessary meaning the right thing, worth the risk, &c. You, I should say are justified in waiting till you have a subject in which you are thoroughly master as an amateur: this is putting it extremely and of course may be let down a peg or two.

Your article on dress was interesting to many, & I thought very good, but it would not bear extending into an R.I. Lecture however many fresh illustrations you may have.

Your idea on Polit: econ: I think theoretically would be much more suitable, but I should fear the audience would not have Mill enough in their minds to appreciate it and my feeling would be that it should mature in one's mind thoroughly before lecturing on it  It is a terrible bold thing to hope to screw up a large audience to take an interest in such a subject, it is wheels & axles to so many. As you ask my opinion, it is that you should let Spottiswoode know that you hope to give the R.S. a turn some day, but your present subject is hardly suitable.

I don't say my opinion is worth a farthing.

I am glad Stead has turned out so well.

I hope to get into my house in a week.

Your affect | W.E.D