Says manuscript [Mechanism of the Heavens] cannot be improved materially except perhaps on one or two small points. Will look at it again when it is together in a whole. Announces birth of JH's daughter [Caroline] that morning.
Showing 21–40 of 99 items
Says manuscript [Mechanism of the Heavens] cannot be improved materially except perhaps on one or two small points. Will look at it again when it is together in a whole. Announces birth of JH's daughter [Caroline] that morning.
Will bring her manuscript [Mechanism of the Heavens]. Apologizes for holding it so long. Critiques various passages concerning permanent rotation and equations of stability. Sends condolences on Dr. Somerville's loss.
Glad WS is coming to England but cautions that London empties in June. Congratulates WS on measurement of a 'great Northern arc.' Complains about the division of the Royal Society into 'parties'. Adds [James] South's results showing a sixth star, nearer than WS's fifth, in trapezium of Orion.
Tells AQ of 'negligent inattention' regarding Belgium's instruments. Has extracted promise from [William?] Simms that the equatorial should be finished by Christmas and mural circle within the following year. Mentions seeing Colonel Blake and [G. P.] Dandelin. Regrets [P. F.] Verhulst's illness. Discusses lichen.
On behalf of [J. F.] Encke, asks that Greenwich observations be given to library of Berlin Observatory.
Cannot attend meeting [concerning the Nautical Almanac]. Makes numerous specific recommendations concerning its format and contents. Raises the theoretical question 'Does sidereal time flow uniformly?'
Has received and comments on materials sent, including Nathaniel Bowditch's translation of P. S. Laplace's Mécanique céleste and a paper by J. W. Lubbock.
Will not be coming to either meeting [see James Hudson's 1830-12-18], because JH has fully expressed himself previously on the matter of Southern Hemisphere observations, and had already asked to be excused from further association with Glass Committee and any other connection with 'that subject.'
Regrets lack of time for WH's paper but has been occupied with nebulae and double stars. Finds it difficult to concentrate on one subject. Has proposed Edward Quin for Astronomical Society membership. Mentions [Francis] Beaufort's penchant for astronomy and the recent R.S.L. elections, as well as JH's wish to meet WH personally.
Been working on a new mirror for the 20-ft. telescope; very pleased with its performance. Asks CH to distribute his fourth catalog of double stars among the Prussian and German astronomers.
Reports on good health and behavior of JH's new daughter, Caroline Emilia Herschel. Comments on Greek music and on recent results of the R.S.L. Glass Committee.
Thanking him for his letter and announcement that he has been made a foreign correspondent of the Royal Academy of Sciences of France. [Also contains part of a letter to J. B. J. Fourier which is copied out fully in RS:HS.21.58.]
Has heard the news about Government support for the machine; is this correct?
Regarding CB's attitude to the machine. Is sending rough proof of the page on 'Sound.'
Is sorry to note the tone of CB's last letter concerning his projected biography of Dr. Thomas Young, but he means to carry out his project. Edward Sabine received £1000 from the Board of Longitude.
Has read his book on the decline of science and thinks that the book may do some good. Comments on various parts, and outlines things that could happen as the result. Has replied to Encke's letter about Ephemeris.
Will be very pleased to see him and hopes he will spend longer with him. Has just finished a new 20-foot mirror for his telescope. Regarding alterations in the Nautical Almanac.
Has not seen the letter in the Herald about the possibility of himself standing for the presidency of the R.S.L. Raises six queries regarding manufactures and other scientific facts.
His views on hearing that he has been nominated for the position of President of the R.S.L. Does not wish to become the president, but will do so if elected.
Would he please send back the proofs he sent the other day as the printers have requested their return. Regarding affairs at the R.S.L. Has he heard from the Treasury?