_To Robert Louis Stevenson._
H. J.'s article on "The Art of Fiction" was reprinted in _Partial
Portraits_. Stevenson's "rejoinder" was the essay called "A Humble
Remonstrance," included in _Memories and Portraits_.
3 Bolton St., W.
Dec. 5th [1884].
My dear Robert Louis Stevenson,
I read only last night your paper in the December _Longman's_ in genial
rejoinder to my article in the same periodical on Besant's lecture, and
the result of that charming half-hour is a friendly desire to send you
three words. Not words of discussion, dissent, retort or remonstrance,
but of hearty sympathy, charged with the assurance of my enjoyment of
everything you write. It's a luxury, in this immoral age, to encounter
some one who _does_ write--who is really acquainted with that lovely
art. It wouldn't be fair to contend with you here; besides, we agree, I
think, much more than we disagree, and though there are points as to
which a more irrepressible spirit than mine would like to try a fall,
that is not what I want to say--but on the contrary, to thank you for so
much that is suggestive and felicitous in your remarks--justly felt and
brilliantly said. They are full of these things, and the current of your
admirable style floats pearls and diamonds. Excellent are your closing
words, and no one can assent more than I to your proposition that all
art is a simplification. It is a pleasure to see that truth so neatly
uttered. My pages, in Longman, were simply a plea for liberty: they were
only half of what I had to say, and some day I shall try and express the
remainder. Then I shall tickle you a little affectionately as I pass.
You will say that my "liberty" is an obese divinity, requiring extra
measures; but after one more go I shall hold my tongue. The native
_gaiety_ of all that you write is delightful to me, and when I reflect
that it proceeds from a man whom life has laid much of the time on his
back (as I understand it), I find you a genius indeed. There must be
pleasure in it for you too. I ask Colvin about you whenever I see him,
and I shall have to send him this to forward to you. I am with
innumerable good wishes yours very faithfully,