Comparisons of the functioning of JH's barometer and that of TM.

Discusses JH's recent observations of Gamma Virginis.

Reports on location of a planetary nebula. Expresses thanks for book by [Robert] Woodhouse.

Has interpolated the hourly tidal observations for Simon's Bay.

Reports having read the record JH sent of [tidal] observations and comments on it.

Reports on JH's actinometer observations. Explains why he subscribed to 'Col. [Harry] Smith's piece of plate.'

Discusses various matters relating to telescopic and to tidal observations. Relays request from William Whewell that TM continue tidal observations.

Comments on stellar observations made by TM and reports JH's observations on sunspots. Notes error in [J. E.] Bode's celestial map.

States the case for the accuracy of the observations and reports of the discoveries of the sixth and seventh satellites of Saturn made by JH's father, William. [This letter seems to be tied to JH's 1844-7-22 in terms of date of writing.]

Has heard from G. B. Airy that T. F. Colby has written to Ireland for the compensation bars. An additional assistant has been designated but no appointment made yet. Received a letter from their good friend but does not feel justified in bringing it to the notice of a minister. Admiralty has borrowed Fuller's theodolite (from R.A.S.) and the mural circle should soon arrive. Gives Michael Faraday's analysis of the meteorolite.

Comments and queries on various astronomical observations.

Suggests a means of resolving TM's problem with the mural circle.

Has received books and papers by the Beagle but only one letter and nothing from Francis Beaufort. Expects a party of visitors from the Beagle. If JH intends to visit the Bay, TM would like to accompany him.

Found Encke's Comet the night before last. Has not had a chance to see Halley's Comet. Will JH come to the Observatory? There are no fleas.

Cannot send the Brisbane list by the end of the week. Will not expect J. K. Gibbs until the cart is finished. Returns solar spots.

Is glad JH has given his opinion to Francis Beaufort on the subject of observations of the first class. Encke's comet is invisible in the 14-ft. within the range of 10 degrees. Last two nights were very favorable. Has seen Encke's comet three times, and it appears just as he saw it in England.

Much obliged for F. W. Bessel's zone. Thinks his own extra meridian observations of the comet will be respectable. Feels sure Fearon Fallows could not have approved of the supports of the dome. Has been promised the pleasure of inspecting the expenses of the Observatory. Captain J. E. Alexander and Dr. John Murray will call this morning for a parting cup of tea.

Encloses star observations. Comments on his instrumental system. Cannot find the rule for position when two stars are of equal magnitude. Neptune with the convicts is anchored in Simon's Bay, awaiting the answer from H. G. Grey (3rd Earl Grey).

Matters relating to providing observatory instruments to an expedition into Central Africa.

Informs TM that JH's 20-ft. telescope is fully in operation; invites TM to come and observe with it.