From Edward Sabine   July 6. '52

Woolwich July 6. ‘52

Dear Sir

I am much obliged to you for taking the trouble to write the letter¹ which I have received this morning. I imagine that you attach more importance to the bearing of the subject matter which it communicates on your reception by the world & prospects in it than really belongs to it the social state of this country. There are but two real points, moral uprightness and intellectual cultivation & attainment. With respect to scientific grounds I did make those enquiries from persons engaged in similar pursuits to yourself, which give me reason to believe that if placed in suitable circumstances you are likely to advance science, and lead up others to do so – and I therefore felt it a duty holding the situation I do in the R.S. to do what might be in my power towards aiding you in your reasonable desire to acquire a more independent position. I did not make any enquires regarding your private character, assuming it as you say, and not being in a position in which I was the person required to investigate more closely. I do not doubt that in both respects the more closely enquiry is made the more satisfactory will be the result. The circumstances which you relate shewing you to be the architect of your own fortunes, would, with most persons I should think entitle you to additional respect. I should greatly doubt there being a contrary effect with any one.

The enquiry I made regarding the part of Ireland you came from was a mere accident arising from the circumstance that I also like yourself am an Irishman,² as far as being born there gives that title.

Believe me, my dear Sir, | faithfully yours | Edward Sabine

RI MS JT/1/S/12