Expresses his views to FB about the meeting of the Admiralty, Greenwich Observatory, [and members of the Astronomical Society?] held the previous day.
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Expresses his views to FB about the meeting of the Admiralty, Greenwich Observatory, [and members of the Astronomical Society?] held the previous day.
In reply to FB [see FB's 1831-8-25], JH believes that [Henry] Taylor, the person who had done all the reductions of the observations [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue, should be asked to write the preface, both by reason of his familiarity with the material, as well as having earned the right to do so.
Grieved to hear of Fearon Fallows broken state of health; in response to FB's request, JH reviews a number of possible candidates to succeed Fallows.
Expresses JH's preferences with respect to the appointment of the Cape Observatory astronomer in terms of the choices available [Follow-up letter to JH's 1831-9-13].
Comments on the work of T. G. Taylor in reducing the observations for [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue, and on an appropriate remuneration for the work. Enclosed are comments for the benefit of Taylor.
Offers opinions about the instructions to be furnished to the Cape astronomer, especially about tide and meteorological observations, and about surveying an arc. JH hopes to see Thomas Henderson before Henderson leaves for the Cape to assume the post of astronomer there.
Sent as a letter of introduction for Captain [William] Edie, who was hurt on an expedition in southeastern Africa, and who knows much about the region.
Agrees with FB and others about the need for adequately trained men to be sent out to remeasure N. L. Lacaille's arc.
Is returning the proof of [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue. Comments on the expense of printing it. Is pleased that Thomas Henderson has been appointed Cape Astronomer.
Comments on the instructions for the Cape Astronomer and adds some of his own.
Responds to FB's request for advice regarding instructions for Thomas Henderson upon taking the position at the Cape Observatory. Suggests Henderson supervise tidal observations, but not get involved in measurement of arc of meridian. Hopes to see Henderson before his departure, but JH's mother now gravely ill.
Responds to FB's request for advice on a political document prepared by Thomas Drummond analyzing parliamentary representation and taxation in mathematical terms.
Answer to FB's queries regarding chronometers.
Has received the letters and parcels safely. Is starting reducing his sweeps. Observations in Dublin Observatory. Comments on the various functions of observatories. News of scientific events at the Cape and various expeditions in progress.
Responds to request for advice on operation of the observatory established at Mauritius by John A. Lloyd. Urges it can profitably make meteorological observations and positional determinations for southern stars. Stresses the need for prompt reduction of observations.
Fulfills request for advice on the operation of the Cape Observatory. Urges, among other points, that Thomas Maclear be given a second assistant and an improved telescope and that the observatory be assigned to undertake tidal, meteorological, and magnetic observations.
Admiralty wants to adapt observatory at Mauritius for rating ship chronometers in southern hemisphere. Rigorous attention to time determination would benefit meteorological, hydrographic, and astronomical observations, making Mauritius 'a National Center of Reference' for global research.
Remarks by JH on proof sheet of Henry Taylor's catalog of circumpolar stars observed by Stephen Groombridge. Why is Gerard Moll, a foreigner, engaged in purely English controversy? JH wants no part of Charles Babbage and James South in this matter. Regrets JH's earlier statements. Sends extract from [Richard] Copeland's letter.
With great reluctance due to his plans for the future, JH agrees to let his name stand in nomination for the Presidency of the R.S.L.
Has been observing Halley's Comet —'altogether the most beautiful thing I ever saw in a telescope.' Comet has tripled in diameter during the last week.