But it is very doubtful whether my intention will now ever be carried into effect.
I am yours very faithfully,
T.H. Huxley.
[Mr. Gladstone's second article appeared in the January number of the
"Nineteenth Century," to this the following letter refers:—]
4 Marlborough Place, N.W., January 21, 1886.
My dear Skelton,
Thanks for your capital bit of chaff. I took a thought and began to mend (as Burns' friend and MY prototype (G.O.M.) is not yet recorded to have done) about a couple of months ago, and then Gladstone's first article caused such a flow of bile that I have been the better for it ever since.
I need not tell you I am entirely crushed by his reply—still the worm will turn and there is a faint squeak (as of a rat in the mouth of a terrier) about to be heard in the next "Nineteenth."
But seriously, it is to me a grave thing that the destinies of this country should at present be seriously influenced by a man, who, whatever he may be in the affairs of which I am no judge—is nothing but a copious shuffler, in those which I do understand.
With best wishes to Mrs. Skelton and yourself, ever yours very faithfully,