Describes enthusiastically the journey to the Cape, the beauties of the country, and the joys of astronomical observing there.
Describes the departure of an expedition north of the Cape, as well as the pleasures of the country and the beautiful skies for observing. The delivery of mail is, however, so erratic as to be vexatious.
Thanks RJ for having helped J[ohn] Stewart, [JH's brother-in-law], to a job; offers to try to get some South African statistics for the Statistical Society, and along the way comments on South African political life. JH describes life at the Cape, and the beauties of the skies.
Acknowledges receipt of some parcels, and then discusses in some detail JH's financial situation, including the fact that JH's aunt, Caroline, has refused the annual portion of rent from Slough. JH expresses concern for the safety of Mr. Calder, and concludes with some family news.
Comparing meteorological records from Bengal with those at the Cape, JH is led to some theoretical considerations about air movements, supporting his ideas with reference to other meteorological observations.
Provides an account of JH's observatory arrangements, some interesting observations, and the effect of the weather on observing.
Comparisons of the functioning of JH's barometer and that of TM.
Discusses JH's recent observations of Gamma Virginis.
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.
JH will break his rule about never going out when it is possible to sweep the sky, and dine with TM; will offer some help over mural circle problems.
Comments on social matters, and on what JH has been observing.
JH encourages JP's compassionate approach to the problem of racial relationships [see JP's 1834-9-18].
Recent article in Journal of Asiatic Society of Bengal confirms JH's notion about transfer of atmospheric pressure between hemispheres. Meteorological journal from 1828 to 1833 of Captain Barnes, port officer of Cape Town, provided JH with formula for determining annual maxima and minima of pressure.
Describes enclosed sketches of Cape Flats and mountains, viewed from Feldhausen. Names ships that carry JH's letters, sketches, and bird skins to friends in England.
Describes Wynberg's climate, plants, scenery, and social customs. Margaret's collection of flower paintings. 20-ft. telescope became active on 26 Feb. Duncan Stewart departed today aboard Claudine. Thank Peter [Stewart] for papers sent to JH. French Academy awarded medal to JH.
Settling in. Regrets departure of Duncan Stewart. Ignore James South's increasing attacks; they cannot harm JH. Hunted Cape 'wolf' last night. All observing instruments are up and active. Laments poor local workmanship. Praises John Fairbairn's editorials.
JS's visit with G. A. A. Plana. Ship Mercury was found safe but weather beaten. New baby [Margaret Louisa] is healthy. Stars are very clear. Commercial panic in Cape colony.
Compares readings of JH's and ER's barometers to those of Cape Observatory and of R.S.L. Observations of sea surface temperatures made by JH during voyage to Cape of Good Hope. Returns manuscripts.
Extract from JH's journal on voyage to Cape of Good Hope, showing barometer and thermometer readings from 23 Nov. 1833 (Lat. 33˚20' N) to 5 Jan. 1834 (Lat 31˚30' S). Compares these to ER's thermometer and R.S.L. standard thermometer. Will accompany ER to [Cape] observatory next week. Please conduct barometer and temperature observations on ER's return trip [to India].