Charles Babbage believes that RM prevented Babbage from becoming president of B.A.A.S. Denies this. Hopes JH can keep Babbage 'from overloading the cup of misfortune.'
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Charles Babbage believes that RM prevented Babbage from becoming president of B.A.A.S. Denies this. Hopes JH can keep Babbage 'from overloading the cup of misfortune.'
Attempts explanation of curious subterranean acoustic phenomenon at Nakoos. Explains other natural acoustic phenomena and eruptions of geysers in Iceland. P.S.: Do not nominate JH to council of Geological Society.
W. S. Stratford, G. B. Airy, and JH agree that B.A.A.S. should publish star catalogs of N. L. Lacaille and J. J. L. Lalande without using government money. Proposes distribution to observatories. [JH annotation: Committee added two more observatories to list.]
In Dec. 1867, JH offered small theodolite to Pierce Butler for survey of Sinai peninsula, and agreed to serve as co-trustee of Sinai Survey Fund with Henry James. Heard nothing until news of Butler's death and announcement that F. W. Holland and George Williams would take leadership and that RM was involved. Renews JH's offer, but health prevents JH from attending meetings.
[Marked 'Private & Confidential.'] Seeks help from JH and George Peacock in persuading 'His Eminence' to change date of meeting.
Mr. Simonoff desires to see [JH] and 'distinguished vicar.'
Death of Pierce Butler. Recommended F. W. Holland, who has explored Palestine, to Henry James. RM has been too busy to keep track of survey fund.
Writes to inform RM of the arrival of Mr. Simonoff, director of the astronomical and magnetic observatory of Kasan, and indicates Mr. Simonoff's likely interests.
Unsatisfied with H. W. Pickersgill as the person to paint JH's portrait. JH wants to consider further what to do.
Criticizes the manuscript of Mr. Hickson [?] about meteorology, the diameter of the sun, and conditions at the North Pole. JH recommends against publishing the work without considerable editing.
Thanks RM for his interest in a possible position for JH's son Alexander. It now appears that the position will likely go to someone else, but there is so much work to be done in the meteorological office that another person, such as Alexander, would be ideal. Perhaps RM could put in a word for him.
JH's son Alexander is up for membership in the R.A.S., and JH would appreciate RM speaking in favor if the occasion arises. Introduces JH's son John to RM and his wife. Comments on the possibility of still finding [David] Livingstone alive in Africa.
Is pleased to hear of signs of recovery for RM from his ill health, and all wish him a complete recovery.
Did not vote for RM's friend at the R.S.L. because JH missed the meeting. JH will also miss the next meeting of the Geological Society, as he is returning to Collingwood.
Urges RM to read The Times for the previous day.
Glad to see RM's geological labors on The Silurian System completed.
Thanks for clarifications on grant comments [see JH's 1850-3-14]. JH's work is plentiful and time is short, so wishes not to undertake public projects, like working on R.S.L. grant committee. Received RM's enclosure regarding Russian Academy. Has heard nothing about medal committee.
Proposes priorities for allocating £1000 granted to R.S.L. by government. Disagrees with RM and Edward Sabine; R.S.L. should not assume responsibility for observatory or any other permanent institution.
Interested in RM's statements on various subjects, including gold diggings and the 'declension of California Produce.'[?]
Describes proceedings of government aid distribution committee meeting. JH's letter was so well-received JH was elected committee member. Asks JH to write example-illustrated report of resolutions and to be committee's orator.