Is displeased by R.S.L. Council's seemingly rash resolution with regard to idea of permanent magnetic observatory.

Reports on William Parson's paper [see RSPT, 130 (1840), 503-] on large mirrors for reflecting telescopes. Suggests omitting comments on William Herschel's mode of polishing, but recommends paper for publication.

Thanks for letting JH know about honor accorded at 'the Anniversary' [Meeting]. Offers condolences on JL's 'late severe loss.'

Explains efforts at using a makeshift apparatus for 'fixing the spectrum.' Discusses current confusion and ultimate hope surrounding JF's meteorological recommendations. In a postscript, notes observations of meteors in Persei.

Reports on and suggests improvements in but recommends publication of a paper [see RSPT, 130 (1840), 325-] by Robert Hunt on iodine's effect in rendering 'argentine paper' sensitive to light and thus useful for photographic purposes.

In light of minutes of R.S.L. Council meeting, outlines vision of permanent national physical observatory and, more importantly, an experimental institute or college. Hopes Edward Sabine will be interested.

Formally reports on paper by Baden Powell on theory of dark bands found in solar spectrum. G. B. Airy agrees with JH's report.

Comments on several different reports; also on some experiments that lead JH to think much of the radiant energy of the Sun is absorbed in the atmosphere.

JH has apparently insulted JL by crediting JL's colleagues but not JL with improvements in lunar and planetary theory. JH explains how this happened, that JH's good intentions went awry.

On what is to happen at the expiration of a three year period assigned for the undertaking of certain magnetic observations.

On the 'misfortunes & mishaps' of the Aden magnetic observatory and on the proper care of magnetical instruments.

Outlines theory behind and method for preparing thermographic paper, which allows observers to determine 'what share each ray of the spectrum bears in producing the observed total effects.'

Will be unable to attend Council meeting, but comments on issue to be discussed of whether R.S.L. should do anything respecting observatory at Hammerfest (North Cape).

On the preparation of paper to exhibit a thermal spectrum.

Notice on the 'final laying up' of the Old Telescope, with a 'Requiem of the Forty-Foot Reflector,' sung by JH's family on New Year's Eve.

Reports on and enthusiastically recommends for publication G. B. Airy's paper on light polarity [see RSPT, 130 (1840), 225-], which JH believes contains true explanation for phenomenon of spectra bands.

Alerts RS to the fact that there is an 'underhand sale' of the prints of [H. W.] Pickersgill's portrait of JH going on, as JH's cousin bought one.

JH concerned not so much that a few copies of the print of JH's portrait may have been sold, but that the plate itself may have been stolen and sold. Seems relieved to know that the plate was left with the printer, not the engraver. Asks RS to make an inquiry with the printer.

Thanks RS for all the trouble he took with the problem of his portrait. Is anxious to see the specimens of the engraved nebulae of which RS spoke, but confesses little hope in photographic 'reverses' of pencil drawings. Has installed his family at Collingwood.

Packing up the 7-ft. and 10-ft. reflecting telescopes for their trip to Collingwood in Hawkhurst in Kent, JH's new home.