Prominent English philosopher and sociologist (1820–1903). LS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, personal letterhead, April 20, 1897. Letter to James H. Bridge in New York, in part: "I have accepted honorary memberships &c in those few cases in which something in the nature of an endorsement was desired, as in the case of the Brooklyn Ethical Institute, and more recently the Peace Society of Lombardy. But, as you are aware, I have declined honorary memberships and degrees in all cases where anything in the nature of a compliment was intended—the last instances being declining of the honorary D.Sc. if Cambridge and L.L.D. of Edinburgh. The Authors Club of New York does not need any endorsement, and therefore acceptance of its honorary membership would be acceptance of a compliment such as in other cases I have declined. I must maintain my consistency. Were I in this case to make an exception there would at once arise the question why? And I do not know what defensible answer could be given." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.Format: LS