[J. C.] Houzeau has sent a paper on the determination of parabolic elements of a comet. Relays a copy of his method, which HS will examine more closely before publishing.

Announces the discovery of a new 'planet' by [K. L.] Hencke of Prussia, of the class of 'the 4 small ones' [the asteroids].

Tells JH that his travels will take him to London. Requests time and day when they can meet personally in Kent.

Deprived of news from JH. Works on physical phenomena of globe. Calls attention to [J. C. A.] Peltier's work on electricity of air of barometer. Asks JH to please write soon.

Updates and requests opinion on KS's newly devised 'universal photometer.'

Thanks extensively for JH's expression of approval. Rejoices in JH's acquaintanceship.

Expresses satisfaction with results of continued magnetic and meteorological observations in various locations.

Sends new edition of JF's Travels [through the Alps of Savoy]. Hopes JH will examine the theoretical part.

Note sent with package from [J. F.] Encke of Berlin.

Judges the unfinished portrait of Francis Baily a faithful rendering, although he is portrayed without the glasses, which he usually wore. Fears the intractability of [W. S.] Stratford and its implications for the workings of the R.A.S. Council. On the dispute between [W. R.] Dawes and [George] Bishop and how to resolve it.

More on the matter of [W. R.] Dawes and [George] Bishop. Dawes deserves credit for the observation and reduction; Bishop for being 'founder & proprietor.' On JH's ability to mediate such situations, because he is so well liked. Confident in Bishop's 'good sense,' once he knows that he is being placed in JH's hands.

Hopes to inscribe a copy of Francis Baily's autograph on the proofs of his portraits. On the plates his full titles should be inscribed; asks JH's help in determining these. How RS can combine this with the autograph. On JH's dispute with James South.

Asks JH to write an abstract of the discourse JH presented to R.A.S. Moon model is on display at R.A.S.

C. P. Smyth receives appointment as Astronomer Royal of Scotland. Again thanks JH for recommendation.

Sends Cape roots and bulbs. Reports that plans for the Cape Botanical Garden progress slowly. Road improvement underway. Minor outbreak of Boer activity dispersed.

J. R. Hind determined orbit of Mu2 Boötes using JH method.

Sends Gamma Virginis data. Will report Aurora Borealis observations to R.A.S.

Discusses the copying of HP's portrait of JH [to be distributed with Cape Results].

Thanks JH for recommendation of C. P. Smyth. James South returns from Ireland; reports great observing conditions there.

Sends correction to data for Gamma Virginis. Asks if JH has 'considered the puzzle of Aristarchus [lunar crater]' discussed in WS's Cycle of Celestial Objects.