Autograph letter signed : London, to Joseph Conrad, 1912 November 22.

Extensively praising his works, with comments on Nostromo, Under Western Eyes, Reminiscences, and The Secret Agent. "I read `Higuerota' [Nostromo] again not long since. I always think of that book as `Higuerota,' the said mountain being the principal personage in the story. When I first read it I thought it the finest novel of this generation (bar none), and I am still thinking so. It is 'majestic & orbicular' & just peerless & there's no more to be said. It's the Higuerota among novels. I was warned by an Ass that the latter half of `Under Western Eyes' was inferior to the beginning, and I have heard the opinion from others. It is not true. The whole book is superb. But people are so blind, & so infernally obstinate in complaining because a book is not something that the author never intended it to be. Only other creative artists can understand a creative artist. Which limits the public comprehension rather severely. But if one could but convey to you the passionate comprehension which some of us have of your work, I think the effect on your health would be good. I wish I could acquaint you with my state of mind - intense satisfaction in seeing a thing truly done, mixed with anger because I know I can never do it as well myself -. When I recall the quiet domestic issues behind the shop in 'The Secret Agent' here is rather the sort of thing I reckon to handle myself, - but I respectful retire from the comparison. What I chiefly like in your books of reminiscences is the increasing sardonic quality of them--the rich veins of dark & glittering satire and sarcasm. We want a lot more of that in English literature;" relating a sail he took in stormy weather saying "I am one of your despised 'yachtsmen'. This last summer I sailed in my craft (21 tons net) from Boulogne to Ostend in a storm one day. The rounding of Cape Gris Nez was the greatest sensation I have ever had in my life. Well, I thought of you all the time. Does not this amount to appreciative literary criticism & nothing else?" discussing Retinger's political ambitions; adding that he and his wife and their friends would be happy to have him visit at any time and saying how sorry he is to "hear about your health."