WCP4853

[1]¹

The Beacon²

295 WASHINGTON STREET,

Opposite the Old South.

Boston,

Mass[achusetts].,

February 2, 1886

Dear President Gilman, —

Dr Alfred Russel Wallace whose work in political economy I think almost as much as the most eminent men of science think of his work in natural history and animal geography, writes to me that he thinks of visiting this country by autumn next , happy to pass the cold months in California. It occurs to me that you might wish to know of this, as Mr. Wallace will nowhere find a heartier welcome than at Johns Hopkins³. Bul [sic] yet I wish to avoid the appearance of making suggestions to you, I write in a similar way to Mr. Augustus Lowell⁵, who responded very hastily, and will ask Mr. Wallace to lecture in the Lowell Institute⁶ courses. For Mr. Wallace's scientific attainments and style I have the greatest admiration; of his social graces I know nothing. And yet I am quite [2] anxious that he should speak in this country on social topics, in which he seems to agree well with some of the best teachings that have emanated from Johns Hopkins; I am thinking of Dr. R.T. Ely's⁵ excellent work).

I have written to a cousin of mine in London about Mr. Wallace's personal tastes, as I am quite unwilling to recommend even so eminent a gentleman without previous inquiries.

Mr. Wallace's letters and address are at your service, and I beg leave to add that I wish to avoid the appearance of making suggestions to you.

With our increasing admiration for Johns Hopkins and its honored [sic] President I am

Most sincerely yours, | C. W. Ernst [signature]

The President Gilman