WCP2634

[1]

Kinnaird

Pitlochri [sic]

July 21. 1882

Dear Sir

I write this to say that I have just finished the careful study of your book on Land-Nationalisation¹ — and am happy to find it so much in accordance with my oldest and most mature speculation and — what is of mere consequence — observa [2] tions on the subject. I do myself the pleasure to present you with a copy of my recent work Altavona² — in which the chapter on the Sutherland clansmen — is certainly at one with your general sketch of Landlordism in the Highlands — As to your words for the gigantic [illeg.], which our first system of Land Laws curtail, they recommend themselves strongly to every [3] every commital thinker. But should we not require a Bismark as a Von Heim, and a batch of Jena to boot, to bring about so accepting a change? If it can be done quietly it may say I think that the millennium is clearly arrived.

Sincerely yours | John S. Blackie³ [signature]

P.S. what do you think Sellar — "the [4] the autumn fellow" of your book, in the season of his sins is in such a huge rage at my printing Macleod's evidence in full. That they are threatening me with a provocation for Libel, at Law actually frightened by people's Law into a disclaiming of the book, and a suspension of the sales! If I am to be called to account for speaking truth with regard to the Sutherland clansmen & what will happen to you?

J. S. B.