Munich, October 31, 1891
I append a few other letters from that time:
Auckland Castle Bishop Auckland
July 12, 1892
Dear Madam:[[39]]
Englishmen cannot but hail with the fullest, heartiest sympathy the work which you have taken in hand, as well as the success that has attended it. The promotion of the business of peace in the nearest future depends in large measure on the mood of the German race, and on this you have already made a deep impression.
As far as I am personally concerned, I have faith enough—may I say, I have confidence enough in the power of the Christian faith?—to expect that if once the magnanimity of opposing nations is awakened, which is quite within the range of possibility, there will also be found a way to obviate the persistent causes of mutual irritation. Then the natural institutions of peace will suffice to furnish the nations with that powerful discipline, consisting in self-denial, which at present has to be maintained by perpetual readiness for war.
Would it be going too far to express the hope that even our generation may yet live to see France, Germany, Russia, fenced in as it were by a neutral girdle, enabled to improve their resources without being obliged to anticipate untoward events, and to perform their functions in the service of man—at the same time forwarding the kingdom of God on earth.
May a rich blessing attend your efforts!
With the sincerest feelings of respect, dear Madam, I am