Asks JH to prepare an eloge of F. W. Bessel.

Left prints of Francis Baily for JH, and will send a pamphlet about a long standing controversy in which RS was involved.

Informs JH that RS will present a case for more than one medal to be awarded.

About trying to convert some surveys to a base using RS's standard yard.

Explains to JH the R.A.S. Council's intent in asking JH to be Foreign Secretary, and the arrangements that have been made when JH declined.

Having difficulty drawing the Great Nebula in Orion using both JH's and [Francesco] De Vico's observations; prints of Francis Baily are almost ready.

About organization of the executive of the R.A.S.

Is trying to straighten out the origin of the R.A.S., and giving appropriate credit.

Assures JH that engravers typically take for themselves a few copies of any print they have made. If a large number of these appear for sale, then it is fraud. Suggests JH not act because the engraver is 'insane' and the exposure would hurt his family.

Needs the name of the print seller from whom JH's cousin bought the copy of the print of JH's portrait, so RS can learn how many copies are available. RS will then know whether to 'treat with [the printer] as an honest man or a rogue.'

Reports on Francis Baily's accident and his progress. JH's 'stars' were brought to the R.A.S. and examined by Baily. Mrs. G. B. Airy's health improving. Notes William Whewell's planned marriage.

Updates Francis Baily's medical condition, noting that it is more serious than RS had thought. Thinks [James] Basire missed JH's meaning. Suggests how to improve the engraving, perhaps using pewter. Explains that he wants the catalogue to serve the needs of expeditions.

Gives his opinion of [George] Merz, stating that he has not done anything to 'distinguish himself from a mere practical follower of [Josef] Fraunhofer.' Requests that JH send encouragement to James Challis.

F. W. A. Argelander has requested the R.A.S. to pledge itself to publish one of his writings. RS notes that it is a rule of the R.A.S. not to do this, but rules can be broken if there is 'sufficient advantage.' Suggests Argelander's request be granted and that JH write him.

Urges JH to plead to Lord Palmerston on behalf of [H. C.] Schumacher. Suggests arguments JH might use. States that JH as 'chief of British astronomy by inheritance, by age & by service' is the ideal person to make this plea.

Thanks JH for the letter to Lord Palmerston on [H. C.] Schumacher's behalf. Comments on British politics.

Has entered JH's name for Foreign Secretary of the R.A.S. and explains the circumstances. On his observations and method of observation of the recently discovered asteroid Astrea.

Responds in detail to JH's request [1844-10-12] for RS's assessment of Francis Baily's character and contributions.

Supplements earlier letter [1844-10-19] giving JH his views on Francis Baily

[John] Lee has a silhouette of Caroline Herschel as a young lady; would JH like it? Discusses whether JH should include Francis Baily's relationship to his family in JH's memoir on Baily. Names those to whom he plans to give copies of Baily's portrait.