WCP21

[1]

Parkstone, Dorset

May 4^th. 1893

My dear Will

It is certainly queer about Crookes¹ — after his letter! — but I am sure he must have been greatly put out or worried about something, connected probably with the person he was expecting & who came while you were there. Who knows — ? perhaps some mystery — some tragedy! — & it was absolutely necessary to get rid of you at once!! Don’t you see? Poor Mr. Crookes couldn’t help [2] himself. He was obliged to get you out of the way immediately! Look at it in that light — for the present. He was always cold & reserved, but I never knew him to be rude, & his letter showed that he didn’t intend to be, but circumstances were too strong for him!

I hope you may have better luck elsewhere. Keep us posted! No news here except hotter & hotter, & not a drop of rain. [3] I send you Violet’s letter which shows all her doings. I am writing to her also & sending your letter, so you will both know all about it. You might try Mr. Stead’s² plan of sitting down at some given hours & asking her to write through your hand!

Let us know further news in a day or two.

Your affectionate Papa | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]