Comments with great satisfaction on WD's observations, and their close agreement with JH's for many of the same double stars.

JH says he has too much work to do to consider the Plumian Professorship [see RG's 1827-11-9].

Was glad to see the clause in Dr. Thomas Plume's will. Sees many advantages in the professorship at Cambridge, but still adheres to his former decision not to apply for the position.

A stiff and formal letter telling WF very clearly that JH fully agrees with the Newtonian system [as WF clearly does not], and that JH would not consider trying to apply pressure to the editors of philosophical magazines to publish WF's writings, in spite of threats from WF.

Has not advertised Herschel House as yet and does not know whether to let or sell it, but would be prepared to discuss the matter with principals only.

Has received her version of the first canto of Dante's Inferno. Did she know it has already been done in an almost perfect way by Mr. Ford, prebend of Exeter? Comments on various points of her translation.

WF's manuscript, which JH returned with his letter of 1831-6-16, has not been received by WF. JH suggests some possibilities as to what might have happened, and deplores the tone of WF's letters, indicating that this tone causes JH to decline further correspondence on the subject.

Comments on the observations in two of JG's papers.

Responds to TH's complaint that the government and the R.A.S. are not liberal enough with grants for science. JH rejects both complaints and explains why.

Explains to WM that in the present chaotic state of scientific responsibilities [the Board of Longitude has been abolished and the Royal Observatory at Greenwich's sphere of activity has been severely restricted], the Cape observations have not been published, but JH hopes that will soon occur. JH then asks WM to write when he arrives at the Cape, telling JH about the possibilities for an 'Amateur Observer' to live and observe at the Cape.

TH has been hurt by the tone of JH's letter [see JH's 1831-8-2] and felt he was writing to JH in confidence. JH assures TH that he has spoken to no one about any private details in TH's letter.

GG's book [Journals of Two Expeditions of Discovery in the North-West and Western Australia, 2 vols. (London: Boone, 1841)] is creating a sensation in London. Pleased to learn from it of the range of mountains named after JH. Hopes GG will carry out some study into the Aboriginal dialects. Standards of weight and measure should be sent to all Colonies. Important to have a magnetic survey of all colonized and colonizable parts of Australia.

Nine conditions under which JH will accept and test instruments constructed for Cape [of Good Hope] observatory, including the assistance of Mr. Davies in evaluating these.

Has signed the certificate, and stated that FG is known to him.

In reply to FB [see FB's 1831-8-25], JH believes that [Henry] Taylor, the person who had done all the reductions of the observations [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue, should be asked to write the preface, both by reason of his familiarity with the material, as well as having earned the right to do so.

Sends £5 note. This is all he can spare. Has no recollection of ever meeting him and their relationship is very remote. Wishes a speedy improvement in his prospects.

Favors concept of organization [B.A.A.S.] to guide scientific research and disseminate discoveries, but doubts that one is possible. Particular societies promoting special subjects are more likely to succeed. Anyone devoted to promoting such societies will have little time for research. Prefers to follow JH's own pursuits. Does not know James South's opinion.

Thanks for JG's Correlation of Physical Forces; JH is still uncertain about the nature of heat.

Grieved to hear of Fearon Fallows broken state of health; in response to FB's request, JH reviews a number of possible candidates to succeed Fallows.

Has received his book on symbolism from the publishers. Comments on some of its views. Feels he has been treated a little harshly.