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Alfred Russel Wallace : Alfred Wallace : A. R. Wallace :
Russel Wallace : Alfred Russell Wallace (sic)

 
 
Letter to Alexander Milton Ross (S488b: 1893)

 
Editor Charles H. Smith's Note: An undated letter Wallace sent to Ross that ended up in the Appendix to the latter's 1893 book Memoirs of a Reformer. Original pagination indicated within double brackets. To link directly to this page, connect with: http://people.wku.edu/charles.smith/wallace/S488B.htm


[[p. 270]] From Dr. Alfred R. Wallace, co-discoverer with Darwin, of the Principle of Natural Selection.

Frith Hill, Godalming, England.

    Dear Dr. Ross,--You are doing an excellent work, and the result will, I trust, be the repeal of the most iniquitous compulsory vaccination law. The reckless way in which false or one-sided statements are promulgated by pro-vaccinators is surely an indication of the badness of their cause. A good and really scientific practice never needs bolstering up by exaggerations and lies. I stepped out of my special path to strike a blow at this [[p. 271]] wretched superstition as soon as I became thoroughly convinced of its errors, and of the cruelty and danger arising out of its compulsory enforcement. With best wishes for your success.


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