Relays debate about the use of names of Roman gods for 'planets.' [Annibale] de Gasparis proposes to name his discovery in Italian, 'Igia,' rather than the Roman Hygia [Hygeia]. Which version will JH adopt?

Sends account of rainbow-like atmospheric phenomena; asks JH for an explanation. Remarks on American empirical discoveries. Too many hypotheses being put forward, including [Daniel] Kirkwood's. Comments on [B. A.] Gould and [Stephen] Alexander. Americans think they are absolute judges in scientific matters. Astronomische Nachrichten of 3 November contains improved method for computing planetary orbits.

Thanks JH for explanation of phenomena [see HS's 1849-12-4]. B. A. Gould [?] has begun to publish American version of Astronomische Nachrichten, but without strong financial backing.

Wilhelm Struve stayed several days with HS enroute from England to Pulkowa, but forgot to leave copies of [JH's Cape Results] for HS and K. L. C. Rümker. Later, Struve forgot to give these to G. B. Airy, who was visiting Pulkovo, for delivery to HS. HS has not yet seen Cape Results, or J. J. Lalande's catalogue to be sent by B.A.A.S. Happy to publish R.A.S. invitation for observations of solar spots. Short poem about Rümker losing a comet.