Faraday¹ to Thomas Sherratt   1 November 1864

Royal Institution | 1 Nov. 1864

Sir

I beg to thank you for your papers² but have wasted more thought & time on so called spiritual manifestation than it has deserved. Unless the spirits are utterly contemptible, they will find means to draw my attention.

How is it that your name is not signed to the testimony that you give? Are you doubtful even whilst you publish?

I’ve no evidence that any natural or unnatural power is concerned in the phenomena, that requires investigation or deserves it. If I could consult the spirits or move them to make themselves honestly manifest I would do it. But I cannot, & am weary of them[.]

I am Sir | Your Obedient Servant | M. Faraday

Thos. Sherratt Esq.