TM's attention has been drawn to the question raised by Joseph Hume in the House of Commons regarding the use of the Cape Observatory. Will forward a copy of the weekly register and later a copy of the general report.

Was agreeably surprised by the communication in Lady Herschel's letter; did not expect any pension. Outlines his ideas for careers for some members of his own family. India and the Services seem the best propositions. Does not expect much from the observations of Venus in Chile unless the definition is good.

Hears that JH is using his influence to obtain a transit circle for the Cape. Hopes the application will be successful. Comments on the siting of the instruments. Cape politics are deplorable. Kaffir war still continues and appears likely to be expensive.

Has recommended [Andrew] Bain use JH's patronage to present the geological map of South Africa to the Geological Society. Comments on Bain's visit. Affairs have not improved in Kaffir Land.

Now forwards [Andrew] Bain's Geological map, which had been delayed by the Agent. Has heard nothing definite regarding the transit circle but would appreciate JH's recommendation, together with those of Francis Beaufort and G. B. Airy. Gives details of the work at the Observatory. Estimates the cost of mounting the transit circle.

Has forwarded four boxes of geological specimens by the Bosphorus; these are the illustrations for [Andrew] Bain's map. Peace is about to be declared in the Kaffir War. There have been several bush fires and one almost damaged Feldhausen.

Has received two notes, one from G. B. Airy and one from Francis Beaufort informing him that the Admiralty has promised to supply a transit circle; the estimates have now been passed. The Magnetic Observatory building at the Cape has been destroyed by fire. Andries Stockenström is taking an active part in politics. H. G. W. Smith has been recalled.

Is grateful for JH's letter to the Admiralty recommending a transit circle for the Cape. Comments on a suitable room for it in the Observatory. Has just had a peep at Encke's comet. Still trouble with the Kaffirs. Will be pleased to see Willy [Herschel] when he passes that way.

The Australian ship carrying the gold for England has visited the Cape. Many of the Cape people have moved to Australia. Comments on the gold.

Has just heard that Caroline Herschel is to marry the Hon. Mr. Gordon. Sends her his best wishes. This week TM hopes to commence the alteration to the circle room.

The Cape Government is to employ a geologist to survey the mineral resources. Copper mines are all the rage at the moment and the value of shares is increasing rapidly. No further news of David Livingstone. Mounting of the transit circle is progressing.

Regrets to hear of the ill health of JH. Believes that a sea voyage to the Cape would work wonders. The transit circle is in full working order. Comments on some of the work connected with it. Has heard that an accident had occurred to William Parsons' (3rd Earl of Rosse) 6-foot speculum. No news of David Livingstone.

Sends some photographs with comments. Pleased to hear JH is in much better health. Received a circular from U. J. J. Leverrier requesting meteorological information. Sends meteorological observations made at the Observatory during the last fourteen years.

Relates his experiences while visiting the Paris Observatory with G. B. Airy. Later travelled to Brussels to meet L. A. J. Quetelet. Is now preparing for a visit to Ireland and Mrs. Maclear will go to Bedfordshire. The meteorological observations [of the Cape] are to be printed in England under the direction of Robert FitzRoy.

Relates experiences while on a 10 day visit to Ireland. Now waiting for a train to Aberdeen. Professor [Philip?] Kelland injured in rail accident at Hitchin. Comments on the carelessness of railway workers. Agitation again at the Cape over the recall of Sir George Grey. Jack [TM's son?] has received orders for service, perhaps China.

Wishes to apply for the vacancy that has occurred in the Superintendance of the Nautical Almanac, and would welcome JH's support.

Is a candidate for the position of Radcliffe Observer and would be pleased if JH would send a testimonial to the Radcliffe Trustees.

Is grateful to JH for sending him a copy of the Essay on Meteorology. Takes an interest in the subject himself and gives his views on cyclones and rotary storms.

It was good of JH to reply so fully to his letter. Now has a better understanding of the subject than before. Read a paper on the geology of the Lake District at the local Philosophical Society. Comments on his own theories of rock foundations.

Is sending JH a book recounting some of CM's researches. Comments on various factors influencing conductance in carrying out experiments in electricity and telegraphy. [Letter illegible in parts.]