Letter from William Pole, 9 Stanhope Place, Marble Arch, to [Robert Henry] Scott He must throw himself on the mercy of the Royal Society Club for his non-attendance. He contracted eczema last Autumn, a feverish cold in March and April, which effected his respiration. He is now 77 years of age, and respiratory disease is prevalent in the wintry seasons. He uses these to excuse himself from social engagements; he has not been out of doors since last Autumn. 3 February 1891