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The Sir John Herschel Collection
The preparation of the print Calendar of the Correspondence of Sir John Herschel (Michael J. Crowe ed., David R. Dyck and James J. Kevin assoc. eds, Cambridge, England: Cambridge Univ. Press, 1998, viii + 828 pp) which was funded by the National Science Foundation, took ten years. It was accomplished by a team of seventeen professors, visiting scholars, graduate students, advanced undergraduates, and staff working at the University of Notre Dame.
The first online version of Calendar was created in 2009 by Dr Marvin Bolt and Steven Lucy, working at the Webster Institute of the Adler Planetarium, and it is that data that has now been reformatted for incorporation into Ɛpsilon.
Further information about Herschel, his correspondence, and the editorial method is available online here: http://historydb.adlerplanetarium.org/herschel/?p=intro
No texts of Herschel’s letters are currently available through Ɛpsilon.
Details about proposals for magnetic expeditions, as they are to be presented to British government [see GA's 1838-11-12]. Also included is a copy of the resolutions passed at a B.A.A.S. meeting on 25 Aug. 1828.
Pleased with the observations and astronomical literature JH received from FS; JH is packing up for the return to England; comments on causes of variations in stellar magnitude and several other astronomical topics.
Regrets he was unable to meet him when in Hanover. Took no part in Guillaume Weber's operations at the Cape, but has become acquainted with them through Weber's volumes. Has pressed the Admiralty on the necessity of Magnetic Observatories at various places. Regarding AH's observations on the barometer.
Forwards some material from William Lamb [Lord Melbourne]; JH wants to stop any rumors that he is available for the presidency of the R.S.L.
Arranges a meeting with CW and Edward Sabine to prepare a report on magnetic proposals.
Due to his impending departure from the Cape he has had little opportunity of seeing DL's son George. Does not think he will be in a position to write a popular article on his work in the Southern Hemisphere yet awhile. Several errors in his Treatise Astr., which he would like to correct.
Would like a statement from Edward Sabine and HL outlining the probable expense and materials required for the proposed expedition so that he can hand it to the government at the interview. Has written to G. B. Airy, who is not in favor of the proposed expedition, so will write again. Thinks it necessary for men of science to agree before presenting petitions to the government.
Some personal and some general astronomical news.
JH reiterates his support of a South Polar expedition.
Is anxious to hear from HL about his ideas for a major expedition for magnetic observations being considered by the B.A.A.S.
Further comments in preparation for discussion of major expedition [see JH's 1838-10-22] with representatives of the government.
JH is preparing to bring his observations at the Cape to a close; has polished a mirror for TM.
On the variability of Alpha Hydrae and some other stars.
Urges against carrying up Table Mountain the zenith sector sent to TM to check N. L. Lacaille's measurement of a degree of terrestrial longitude. Comments on JH's skill with precision instruments.
Final arrangements before JH and family depart for England.
Sees that JH has been named as a candidate for the Rectorship of Glasgow University. Though honored wishes it to be known that he will not be a candidate.
Regrets the delay in his letters but has been occupied with various matters ever since he returned from the Cape. Visited his Aunt Caroline in Germany. Visited Charles Grant (Baron Glenelg) and gave him his own views on education. Later met Sir George Grey, who outlined the new plan for education at the Cape.
Writes about arrangements for an R.S.L. council meeting.
JH's reasons for wishing to decline the baronetcy remain, but has decided to accept it because of Augustus Frederick's (Duke of Sussex) 'really noble conduct as respects me.'
A note to GP accompanying a letter to Augustus Frederick (Duke of Sussex) in which JH indicates a change of heart and an acceptance of the baronetcy [see JH's 1838-6-19].