Lord Salisbury apologised for not pressing the matter, but pointed out that, as Evolutionism is rapidly gaining ground among the people who have votes, it was probable, if not certain, that his eminent successor (whose mind is always open) would become a hot evolutionist before the expiration of the eight months’ office which Lord Salisbury (who needs rest) means to allow him.  And when eminent successor goes out, my bishopric will be among the Dissolution Honours.  If Her Majesty objects she will be threatened with the immediate abolition of the House of Lords, and the institution of a social democratic federation of counties, each with an army, navy, and diplomatic service of its own.

I know you like to have the latest accurate intelligence, but this really must be considered confidential.  As a P.C.  I might lose my head for letting out State secrets.

Ever your affectionate Pater.

To Sir Joseph Fayrer.

Cors-y-Gedol Hotel, Barmouth, Wales, August 28, 1892.

It is very pleasant to get the congratulations of an old friend like yourself.  As we went to Osborne the other day I looked at the old “Victory” and remembered that six and forty years ago I went up her side to report myself on appointment, as a poor devil of an assistant surgeon.  And I should not have got that far if you had not put it into my heed to apply to Burnett.

To Sir Joseph Prestwich.

Cors-y-Gedol Hotel, Barmouth, August 31, 1892.

My dear Prestwich,

Best thanks for your congratulations.  As I have certainly got more than my temporal deserts, the other “half” you speak of can be nothing less than a bishopric!  May you live to see that dignity conferred; and go on writing such capital papers as the last you sent me, until I write myself your Right Reverend as well as Right Honourable old friend,

T.H.  Huxley.

To Sir W.H.  Flower.

Cors-y-Gedol Hotel, Barmouth, August 31, 1892.

My dear Flower,

Many thanks for your congratulations, with Lady Flower’s postscript not forgotten.  I should have answered your letter sooner, but I had to go to Osborne last week in a hurry, kiss hands and do my swearing.  It was very funny that the Gladstone P.C.’s had the pleasure of welcoming the Salisbury P.C.’s among their first official acts!

I will gladly come to as many meetings of the Trustees as I can.  Only you must not expect me in very severe weather like that so common last year.  My first attack of pleurisy was dangerous and not painful; the second was painful and not dangerous; the third will probably be both painful and dangerous, and my commander-in-chief (who has a right to be heard in such matters) will not let me run the risk of it.

But I have marked down October 22 and November 24, and nothing short of snow shall stop me.

As to what you want to do, getting butter out of a dog’s mouth is an easier job than getting patronage out of that of a lawyer or an ecclesiastic.  But I am always good for a forlorn hope, and we will have a try.