Sent JH's resignation proposal to both Lord Aberdeen [G. Hamilton-Gordon] and W. E. Gladstone yesterday. JH would have welcomed presidency of Board of Examiners one year earlier, but now desires only rest and recovery. Feels 'broken down.'

Recalls asking [Richard] Jones years ago if JH should seek public office. Jones was horrified, but suggested mastership of Mint as only suitable position. After four years in office, JH longs to escape it and return to family.

Arthur [Gordon?] visited to reveal that Lord John Russell just resigned, expected others will follow, and urged JH to follow their example and 'give up the Mint.' Lord Aberdeen [G. Hamilton-Gordon] wants to give newly created position of 'President of the Board of Examiners' to JH as a 'parting gift.' Arthur assured CH that JH could perform all its duties from Collingwood. Relates 'abuse' CH overheard in House of Commons yesterday.