WCP7005

[1]

Frith Hill, Godalming¹

August 1st. 1882

Dear Sir

I have read your article²with much interest, but it is quite hopeless asking any ^newspaper but one of the extreme Radicals to print it. In fact I most doubt if any paper would print it but "The Radical"³ — & you need no introduction for that.

I am rather surprised, that, having been an editor yourself, you sh^d [should] think that the recommendation of any one would cause an editor to insert a paper he did not think suitable. My experience is that though an editor to whom you are personally [2] known may go a little out of his way to insert your own writings he will not give way one iota for any one else or your recommendation. However, my only reputation is in Natural History, & I am looked at with suspicion when I write on politics. Thus, although all my scientific books have been fully & favourably reviewed, my book on "Land Nationalisation"⁴ though sent to every London Newspaper has yet been noticed by me only! They apparently mean to burke it by neglect! How then can [3] I induce them to publish as strong and almost violent an article as yours, which uncover does and go into facts, but merely lays down a principle they all [one word illeg] at!

I am sorry to say our Society⁵ which was prematurely formed against my wish is dying of inaction. Mr. Parker⁶ is ill & has resigned the Secretaryship & we can get no friends to go on with. It wants some one of your energy to work the question. Will you accept the secretaryship? If so will [4] you communicate with Mr. Swinton⁷ the Treasurer & real founder & mainstay of the Society. His address is Maybank, The Avenue, Upper Norwood (close to Gypsy Hill Station). He will be delighted to see anyone who thinks & speaks strongly on the question.

I return your paper & advise you to send it to the "Radical" — and order 100 copies for private distribution. That is really all that can be done.

Believe me | yours faithfully

Alfred R. Wallace [signature]

PS I shall be away form home from 7th of August to 6th September.