WCP3981

[1]

Frith Hill, Godalming

Feb[ruar]^y 20th. 1882

Dear Mr. Meldola

I have a friend coming to spend next Sunday with me, and I cannot stand the fatigue of getting back late at night even if that were possible— which it is not. I feel quite sure that the interests of the wild beasts of the forest are in good hands, and that you can discourse on the "balance of nature" and the "conditions of existence" far better than I should do. It will too, I think, be better I sh[oul]d not [2] interfere in the matter. In the first place I have no locus standi. In the second, it would be said by any supporters of the existing regime that I was a disappointed aspirant for place & power, & that of course I disapproved of what my successful competitor was doing,— & I do not want to lay myself open to this damaging retort.

Most important would it be for those who speak to know what has been done & what is doing. Of all this I know nothing. Mr Heath, yourself, Mr. Cole & [3] others will be able to do this effectually. Don’t forget the "great copper" drained out of existence!

From What I have seen ^{of the Forest,} draining can only be carried out by destroying all that — "natural aspect of the forest" which the Committee is expressly ordered to preserve. Nothing should be drained but roads & paths, & these will to some extent dry the land on either side of them.

Hoping you may succeed in convincing the Epping Forest Committee of the error of their ways.

Believe me | Yours very faithfully | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]