According to your précis, you have done most of your work in geometry and algebra. I feel that these fields may be precisely what are needed in our programme, and, although you have had no experience, your record at Trinity College is certainly good enough to warrant our using your services.
If you will fill in the enclosed application blank, along with the proper recommendations and endorsements, we can put you to work immediately.
Sincerely,
Edward Ballister-ffoulkes, Bart.
General of Artillery
Ballistics Research Dept.
12 November 1666
Cambridge
Mr. Isaac Newton, A.B.
Woolsthorpe
My dear Isaac,
I am sorry to hear of your decision to remain at home for a while longer instead of returning to the College, but if you feel that your health is delicate, by all means rest until you are in better spirits.
I think, however, that you should attempt to return as soon as possible; you have a great deal of work ahead of you, my boy. Mathematicians—like Rome—are not built in a day—nor in four years.
If, however, you would like to do a part of your studies by post, I see no objection to it, under the circumstances, although, of course, it will be necessary to spend a part of your time in residence here, and the final examinations will have to be taken here.