Relays debate about the use of names of Roman gods for 'planets.' [Annibale] de Gasparis proposes to name his discovery in Italian, 'Igia,' rather than the Roman Hygia [Hygeia]. Which version will JH adopt?

Sends account of rainbow-like atmospheric phenomena; asks JH for an explanation. Remarks on American empirical discoveries. Too many hypotheses being put forward, including [Daniel] Kirkwood's. Comments on [B. A.] Gould and [Stephen] Alexander. Americans think they are absolute judges in scientific matters. Astronomische Nachrichten of 3 November contains improved method for computing planetary orbits.

Thanks JH for explanation of phenomena [see HS's 1849-12-4]. B. A. Gould [?] has begun to publish American version of Astronomische Nachrichten, but without strong financial backing.

Is passing on a request for a copy of JH's Cape Results from C. L. Littrow of Vienna.

A number of copies of the Cape Results were sent out, including one to Charles Ludwig Littrow [see GA's 1849-6-22]; JH will now try to trace the books whereabouts.

Supports proposal made by C. M. Elliot to execute 'running survey' of India with instruments from observatories.

Describes usual method for interpolation of altitudes at sea. JH's graphic method probably would be practicable.

Asks JH's opinion on a passage from [John] Williams's Narrative of Missionary Enterprises in the South Seas regarding unusual tides in Tahiti and Society Islands.

About adjudication of R.S.L. medals.

Asks GA if he knows of any rules or pitfalls in calculating time from earlier times [even B.C.] to the present.

Has little advice to offer JH about time calculation [see JH's 1849-3-29], except for fairly standard reminders.

Comments on JH's Treatise Astr. in the Cabinet Cyclopaedia, mentioning its continued publication, misstatements he wishes to correct, and his addition of A. de Gasparis's newly-discovered planet [Hygeia].

Glad to hear that Margaret Louisa [JH's daughter] is coming to visit GA's family; could JH send along the key to the R.A.S. strong box?

Responds to GA's 1849-4-4, and sends the key.

Is making a case for JH's priority claims with regard to the means of determining double star orbits, in conflict with Yvon Villarceau.

A note about forwarding papers related to the double star question [see JH's 1849-4-9].

Extended comments about some of GA's statements in GA's abstract of Yvon Villarceau's papers on double stars [see GA's 1849-4-11].

Comments favorably on report by W. R. Birt on Kew meteorological observations. Sees special significance concerning atmospheric electricity.

H. C. Schumacher wants an application from the R.A.S. RS complied, giving reasons. 'Miss B.' [Elizabeth Baily] reluctant to write even the shortest formal note. Suggests JH announce her gift on taking the chair. Wants to 'jump' at [F. W. A.] Argelander's offer [to complete the British Catalogue]. Progress on his 'apparatus.' Has asked J. C. Adams to give the R.A.S. notice of the controversy about Neptune, in which U. J. J. Leverrier ('a very cantankerous fellow') has engaged. If Adams refuses, would JH respond?

R.A.S. voted to give its medal to William Lassell. Recounts the discussion of this among the members. G. B. Airy will be the next president. Applauds JH for the work he has done in this position. An 'olive branch' tendered to [W. S.] Stratford; he was made vice president.