Autograph Letter Signed.
As a Liberal statesman, this Scottish aristocrat held many high-level positions: Secretary of State for India, Postmaster General, Lord Privy Seal. As a scientist, he made important contributions in geology, ornithology, anthropology and other "ologies." Item #52541
ALS, 3pp (lettersheet), 4½" X 7", Inverary, Scotland, 1 January 1868. Addressed to "My dear Sir." Very good. Lightly age toned, with original folds and expert archival mend to centerfold. Cryptic commentary about proof sheets -- of what book is not noted, though quite likely it was "The Reign of Law," first published in 1867. In it, Campbell takes his place as leader of the opposition to Darwinism and reconciles science with religion by arguing that natural law does not contradict faith but rather supports it, showing evidence of a higher power. So popular did this book prove that by 1868 a fifth edition was coming out. "You speak of having the Proof sheets sent 'by the time I mention,'" Campbell writes. "But the time I mentioned was the time of my leaving this -- which will be about the 27th. Now what I am anxious to arrange, if possible, is to have the corrections done by that time -- or at all events far advanced. In metaphysical subjects every word has to be weighted so carefully that it is important to have ample time in the careful revision of the newly inserted passages. Therefore, be so good as get the Proofs -- or part of them sent out as soon as possible -- and the notes can I hope be sent very soon...." Boldly and sloppily penned and signed at the close with his usual "Argyll." An intriguing if challenging to verify notion, in any case, but if this is the case the recipient was possibly Campbell's editor at the publishing house of Alexander Strahan.
Price: $125.00