WCP1383

[1]

[in ARW’s hand] “Scientific Aspects”

The Priory,

21. North Bank,

Regents Park.

20 March 67

Dear Sir

Your letter of the 9th Jany, with the accompanying book,^1,2 arrived while I was in Spain from which I have but just returned. That is my excuse for the delay in acknowledging your invitation. Had I been at home, however, I very much doubt whether in the press of work I should have been able to find time to investigate again a set of phenomena which [I] have long ago thoroughly³ examined.

Mrs Hayden⁴ I forced to [2] avow herself an impostor. All other mediums I have tested have been either impostors or dupes. I know how many of their effects are produced, & can produce them myself! Some of them I cannot detect; & some of them are due to the very natural & unconscious assistance of the spectators.

At the same time I am perfectly prepared to examine any serious claim to spiritual power, & would unhesitatingly avow my conviction, if convinced. You will however [3] understand that I should approach the investigation with the same caution, as in any other scientific investigation, & unless I could have all the conditions of testing the phenomena fully accorded I should dislike assisting at a séance. I could not permit a medium to determine the conditions, or to open the usual loopholes of escape. If after this frank statement your medium is prepared to submit to criticism & if you will allow me to bring M^r Herbert Spencer⁵ or some other scientific friend [4] I pledge you my word that I will publicly state with all the accuracy I can whatever phenomena I may witness.

Believe me, dear Sir | Yours very truly

G. H. Lewes⁶ [signature]

Alfred Wallace Esq.