THE ATHENÆUM LECTURES.

Southland Times, Issue 1827, 5 December 1873, Page 3

THE ATHENÆUM LECTURES.

(to thb bditoe of thb times.) Srß, — My letter of October 1 7 is bearing fruit Tather late in the day, but better late than never. I rau-t demur to &fr Hunan's assertion that •' I proposed nn remedy to make the lectures more attractive." I proposed an audience ! My letter was written in the assumption that when 1 the public are reminded of auty thore exists just the bare possibility of a larger performance of duty than if the reminder were not recorded. I now would propose an i ffectual remedy, viz., that the committee of the Athcr&um should invite Mr Hunan to lecture. Considering his extensive knowledge and varied experience and accomplishments, is it not highly probable that as a lecturer he would excel in producing that combination of instruction and amusement which delights a mixed audience? Let it be imagined for a moment that Mr Hanan is in the act of addressing a large and appreciative audience, of which lam one. Would I n'»t justly trace the successful gathering back to that " obtuse and verbose" letter of mine that slightly offended Mr H., but which nevertheless led him to cogitate, »nd ultimately to propose remedies, which, again, led me to propose himself as a lecturer. Imagine my enviable feelings of satisfaction, not to say pride, in such circumstances ! I am Tery glad that Mr Hanan takes such a lively interest in the Athei Bam and kindred institution, and trust that the Athenaeum Committee may act upon my suggestion. Should they do so I earnestly hope that Mr Hanan will not allow modesty to deprive society of a great treat. — I am, &c, Onb Pebsos.