No summary available.
No summary available.
Is disturbed by a suggestion of how JH should behave with respect to the Duke of Sussex.
Writes a second letter to clarify the first [see JH's 1831-3-3] about a matter involving the Greenwich Observatory and the Astronomical Society.
Offers to smooth the way for WS in communicating with the various astronomers on the Continent whom JH knows.
Has communicated with [John] Phillips, and indicates that the committee will take responsibility for its actions [in distributing star catalogues?].
Returns to JH, and comments on, the distribution lists [for the B.A.A.S. star catalogue].
Requests advance payment by B.A.A.S. to Mr. Harris, assistant secretary to Nautical Almanac.
Unable to publish catalogs in time for meeting.
Requests JH's opinion on whether to attempt to obtain a grave in Westminster Abbey for the deceased president of the Astronomical Society [Francis Baily].
Reports gentle death of Francis Baily.
Lists supplies sent to JH. Reports on Miss Baily's need for quiet repose but generally good recovery after her brother's death. (She looks forward to JH's visit.) Outlines Francis Baily's biography and lineage.
Communicates with others JH's choice of name for new planet [Iris]. Sends position of Hawkhurst Church tower obtained from map department. Describes rainy-day eclipse and reactions to it.
To the surprise of all, the dying Francis Baily still lives.
Although the dying Francis Baily sleeps all day and has not eaten, he remains calmly alive.
The dying Francis Baily remains alive, 'sustained by the amazing quantity of food he takes.'
Approves naming the new planet Neptune and continued designation of JH's father's planet as Uranus. Suggests reasons and alternatives.
The dying Francis Baily, although unable to sit up, has calmly survived another day.
Attests that the dying Francis Baily remains alive and free from pain.
Reports on the dying Francis Baily's increasing weakness, calm acceptance of death, gratitude for friends, and freedom from pain.
Apologizes for not having informed JH of Francis Baily's further declining health. Praises Miss Baily's character and devotion to her brother.