My Lord Duke

I hope that your Grace will excuse the liberty which I take in asking you to read the enclosed copy of a memorial, in which I take the deepest interest.² I am aware that you disagree with many of M^r Wallace’s scientific views;³ but I believe that this disagreement, if it were to have any influence on your judgment, would lead you to look as favourably as possible on other points of his scientific career.— Supposing for a moment, that your Grace, would have signed the memorial as a simple scientific worker, would it be asking too great a favour to request you to inform M^r. Gladstone to this effect; or as the memorial will soon be printed will you allow me to mention this fact in a private letter to M^r Gladstone, if he cannot spare time to receive a Deputation.)⁴

The memorial will be signed exclusively by men who for their special scientific work, or for their positions as Presidents of Scientific Societies, have some claim to be heard.—

If my request is unworthy one, I hope that your Grace will believe that this is due to this is entirely due to my ignorance of what is customary, as to Govt

I beg leave to remain my Lord Duke [with sincere regards] | yours faithfully | Ch. D.