Regarding his own method of calculating the perturbations of the comets. Expense of computation is high for an individual and a mention by JH would bring support for his scheme. Would like to explain his method at an ordinary meeting in January. Every branch of science is facilitated by tables and those he suggests seem most desirable.

Seeks opinions on discontinuing use of 25-foot zenith tube and altering form of printed observations for transit instrument and mural circle.

[Received JH's 12 Nov. letter.] Send bill for Munich telescope to Admiralty. Order parts for dome construction, which [Thomas] Maclear cannot procure at Cape [of Good Hope].

[Reply to JH's 19 Nov. note.] FB may be able to get Admiralty to have roof [for telescope at Cape of Good Hope] built at Cranbrook under JH's direction. Submit plan or estimate of time and expenses. Just saw [Thomas] Maclear's letter telling of adventures in 'northern expedition.'

Withdrew £25 from Drummonds [Bank] for Caroline L. Herschel. Describes Caroline's deteriorating condition. JH's [Cape Results] arrived three months ago. Despite efforts by friends to convince her that it was hers, [Caroline] presented it to king of Hanover, who already had copy. Received manuscript from JH's daughter Louisa.

Measurements and diagrams of WD's 8.5-foot telescope, dome, and other structures at Camden Lodge [to be duplicated for shipment to Cape of Good Hope observatory]. Laments deaths of Julia Cornwallis and J. L. Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy.

Offers his suggestions for any trimming of the catalogue distribution list that may be necessary [see JH's 1847-11-17].

In flowery prose thanks JH for 'feeling with me in what I have felt deeply myself,' perhaps referring to one of JH's poems. Is delighted to have learned through W. R. Hamilton that JH is a poet.

Has received a letter from [W. C.] Bond stating that Maria Mitchell observed the comet on 1 Oct., several days before it was seen by [Francesco] DeVico (3 Oct.) and by W. R. Dawes (7 Oct.). Proposes calling it 'Miss M. Mitchell's comet' and asks if JH has any objections. Knows DeVico will 'growl.'

Maria Mitchell 'shall have her due honor,' despite [Francesco] DeVico. Discusses problems with the R.A.S. awarding medals and honors, the loss to the R.A.S. of Francis Baily, and the issue of proposing foreign associates. Proposes a list of such to JH. Objects to DeVico, but is the head of a publishing observatory and has found comets. Urges caution in appointing Americans. On publishing R.A.S.M.N.

Advises that the catalogs [J. J. L. Lalande's Catalogue of Those Stars in the Histoire céleste française... and N. L. Lacaille's Catalogue of 9766 Stars in the Southern Hemisphere] not be bound for another five or six months because some proof-sheets are still quite wet.

Discusses persons who deserve copies of J. J. L. Lalande's Catalogue of Those Stars in the Histoire céleste française... and N. L. Lacaille's Catalogue of 9766 Stars in the Southern Hemisphere (?).

Accepting JH's invitation to spend a few days with him. Remarks on planets in general. Information on academic success of Hugh Percy (3rd Duke of Northumberland).

Regarding magnetic disturbances.

Currents in telegraph wires.

Sending account of the magnetic disturbances of 24 September 1847.

Is printing letters of the poet Thomas Campbell and would like JH to look at the proofs of those from his father to Campbell.

Is greatly obliged for his prompt attention to the proof sheets. Has nearly 1,000 letters and 50-60 ms. poems to edit and wishes someone could be found to write Thomas Campbell's life, as he dos not feel equal to it.

As Hugh Percy (3rd Duke of Northumberland) has died, it would be very fitting if JH would contribute an obituary notice for the R.S.L.

Is obliged for JH's letter and enclosure. Pleased that he will be at the Anniversary meeting to receive the medal [Copley Medal] recently awarded to him.