Alston, James

James Alston an Ernst Haeckel, Barrow in Furness, 15. August 1883

Forshaw Street

Barrow in Furness

England

15. August 1883

To Professor Ernst Haeckel

Sir

May I take the liberty of asking your opinion on the following questions?

Do you suppose that amongst the very lowest tribes of uncivilized nations that it is within the range of possibility that providing, they were better Clothes, Fed and were taught to be more industrious, that in the course of some years they would change (Physically) and in process of time would be able to receive & retain instruction of a very practical nature? || for instance willa the Paupian tribes of Asia in time become as civilized and industrious as Europeans providing the conditions are the same?

Or do you think there are some nations who are too low in the seale of civilization to ever be much higher? if so, is it on account of Mental of Physical incapacity or both – or does one influence the other. if so which?

If you will condescend to answer the above queries I shall consider it a very great honor – and shall feel deeply grateful for the same. hoping you may see your way clear to give me your opinion

I beg to remain

Dear Sir

Your most humble & very

obedient servant

James Alston ||

I would most willingly enclose you Postage Stamps for reply. but that would be no use as they would not be legal.

a gestr.: would; eingef.: will

 

Letter metadata

Verfasser
Empfänger
Datierung
15.08.1883
Entstehungsort
Entstehungsland
Besitzende Institution
EHA Jena
Signatur
A 8743
ID
8743