3 Autograph Letters Signed to William Matthews.

Catholic theologian, author of 'Natural Theology' (1891). All three letters are on 16mo bifoliates. The first two are 3 pages, and the last is 2 pages. All in good condition, but all with some discolouration and closed tears, and with pin marks in one corner. All three letters concern James Martineau's 'Study of Religion' (1888). In the first letter he praises 'Dr. Martineau's great work', from which he has taken notes. 'I admire the loftiness of his mind and the elegance of his style.' He apologises for the fact that there is no reference to him in his book. 'If I lived near Russell Square, it would be easier for me to discuss with you some passages in the 'Study of Religion' which as a Catholic philosopher I cannot endorse.' The second letter concerns the question 'How far a Catholic may suffer in his faith by studying the philosophical views of Dr. Martineau'. He recommends that Matthews be guided by his 'spiritual director'. Matthews may wish to 'obtain leave for reading forbidden books'. 'Be sure, my Dear Sir, I sympathize heartily with good old Dr. Martineau. We must continue to pray for him.' Quotes passage from Martineau, saying that it shows 'that his own case proves clearly what he says'. In the last letter he says he has often prayed for Martineau. 'Hoping, that he has found mercy in his last hour, I shall not fail often to remember his soul at the altar.' He thanks Matthews for a saying of Martineau's, which will 'encourage some of the Fathers here to pray with confidence for the repose of the soul of your dear old Professor.' The envelope, which is self-stamped, and addressed to Matthews at 72 Oakley Square, N.W., is postmarked 28 April 1898, but contains no letter.