WCP3116

[1]

47 Longridge Road

South Kensington

Sep 14. 1885.

My dear Mr Wallace

I have just finished reading your two volumes of Travels in the Malay Archipelago. I cannot resist telling you with what great pleasure and instruction I have made — though somewhat later — The acquaintance of a book so reliable — and so far above the level of contemporary [2] literature in the novelty of the importance — and the treatment of the subject. The resume at the end and the comparative Henry’s¹ ‘of barbarism² [so called] and of civilization’ — which scarcely deserves the name strikes me as particularly just I happy[?illeg].

The views therein expressed, have compelled me to send you a little composition of mine, which [3] I have just launched anonymously — but the authorship of which I will avow in due time.

I think you will find ideas in it with which you will agree — & I beg your acceptance of it, with the assurance of my highest regard and esteem.

I wish my health would allow me to attend the meetings to which I am from time to time invited,[4] on the Land question — which is growing daily. I will continue to grow in importance. Unfortunately I am still crippled by rheumatic gout — and have been in enforced seclusion from the busy world — with what patience and resignation I can command.

Believe me | Ever yours most truly | Charles Mackay³[signature]