Congratulates JH and Margaret Herschel on birth of a daughter [Francisca?]. Asks JH's opinion of the ideas of 'lines of force' and 'lateral shakes.' Conducts a force experiment with J. P. Gassiot.

R.S.L. approves of CP's optical work, believing it will be helpful at observatories abroad. CP comments on Alexander Herschel's prism experiments.

R.A.S. wants JH to direct the preparation of William Herschel's catalogue of double stars for publication. CP suggests Alexander Herschel prepare the catalogue with JH's supervision. G. B. Airy observes the 'willow leaves.'

Compares observations of meteor shower in Orion with JH. Describes methods and observations in detail.

Asks JH for information on the Beaufoy Clock owned by R.A.S., which is now missing. Requests JH to read R.A.S. Annual Report.

Discusses opinions of Charles Darwin's theories. Doubtful that the day has shortened due to tidal forces since the earth's beginning. Alexander Herschel helps in the revision of William Herschel's double star catalogue. Alex is preparing to lecture at Glasgow University.

Has discovered William Herschel's memoirs in R.A.S. library; arranged and read them. Asks JH whether any copies exist so the originals can be checked for completion before binding. Questions JH on William Herschel's opinion of the nature of nebulae and boundaries of the galaxy.

Problems making actinometer observations during solar eclipse. Reports he did not observe the supposed planet Vulcan, but a fixed star. Sends micrometer observations. Describes shape of prominences.

Experiments with lens curvature and prisms. Wants to discover set rules for lens thickness-to-curvature ratio.

Forwards letter concerning 'solar bright particles' by W. R. Dawes. Inquires if diagonal solar eyepiece used in JH's solar spectrum observations.

Describes debate at R.A.S. over the nature of the 'willow leaves.' Different parties argue that the 'leaves' are solid, precipitate, or non-luminous gas.

Richard Hodgson claims to have invented the diagonal solar eyepiece despite JH's description of it in Cape Results.

Cites quotation from Cape Results proving that JH invented the diagonal solar eyepiece. Discusses RH's claim. Note to JH accompanies this letter.

Compares W. L. Newman's and CP's calculations of optical coefficients to those in JH's work. Sends JH formulae and tables for calculating telescopic lens thickness and shape in relation to the dimensions of the telescope. Wishes JH luck on Iliad.

Visits Angelo Secchi at Rome observatory, where they are comparing information in Cape Results to their observations.

Asks JH's opinion on CP's eclipse observations plans, especially on which equipment to use. Intends to use a 'diagonal solar eyepiece' during the eclipse. Plans to observe carefully and to sketch solar flares.

Sends observations of eclipse; asks JH to check accuracy. Details observations with diagonal solar eyepiece. Describes solar corona and lists bright stars visible during totality.

Observes and measures sunspots. Takes spectrum of solar photosphere; detects sodium and magnesium absorption lines. Pleased with Alexander Herschel's work on the solar spectrum; wishes he would begin work on stellar spectra.

Thanks JH for solar observations. Discusses 'willow leaves' observations made at Greenwich Observatory after following JH's suggestions for solar eyepiece.

Thanks JH for reading R.A.S. records. G. P. Bond will not receive R.A.S. medal. The Beaufoy Clock is recovered.