Has begged Edward Ryan to see JH and have a consultation about some of RJ's affairs, which he would like to settle. Pleased to hear that Willy [Herschel] is doing so well.
Wished Edward Ryan to consult JH regarding [G. H. Gordon (4th Earl of Aberdeen)]. as he knows him better. Will not make any move until he has consulted Sir James Graham. Unable to manage Monday, but any day after will suit him. Mrs. Jones is very depressed and needs a change of air.
Quality of silver for use in British coins. Coins issued to colonies.
JH remains at home today. HH should conduct assay. Arrange with W. H. Barton and W. T. Brande to suspend silver coinage for two days at end of month.
Differing opinions among manufacturers of minting machinery. Compares fly-press at Royal Mint with equipment at Philadelphia. Over nine million coins struck in past six months, with £630,000 per week at maximum capacity, three times more than under old Mint system. Problems with introducing new machinery while production pressure continues. Five new coin weighing machines are 'greatest improvement' at Mint.
Considering character of Lord A. [Aberdeen?], JH and wife believe that any letter on behalf of James [C. Stewart?] should come to Lord A. from Sir J. Graham or another public figure and should describe recent events with Lord Derby. Comments on examination system in India.
E. W. Ward has called for bids on machinery for Sydney mint but requests written authorization before proceeding with contracts.
Send 68 boxes of copper coins next week to Bank of Ireland and to Provincial Bank of Ireland.
Forwards bank documents and letter from Charles Elouis containing last month's finances. Asks JH to sign check for £10,000 for Mr. Mocatta, who does not want to be paid [for silver deliveries] through Bank of England.
HH gave instructions to prepare for coining 500,000 half sovereigns. JH may inform Robert Mushet of this.
Forwards two notes from Mr. Mocatta, who wants to paid for silver before delivering it. HH objects; there should be no more payments prior to delivery.
Sends papers that JH requested. H. U. Addington requested permission for Russian officer to visit Royal Mint. Mr. Mocatta wants second payment but has not yet delivered silver. Charles Elouis will investigate paying Mocatta through bullion office of Bank of England, as J. W. Morrison used to do. Reports 1797-99 copper coinage by Matthew Boulton.
Forwards recent letters. The Times article today points out deficiency in supply of silver coins.
Gives mailing address in America for son J. B. Hume.
Approves JH's plan to pay E. W. Ward's sappers while they are employed at Mint.
Cannot find JH's official letter regarding appointment of bookkeeper at Mint. Please write another, proposing appointment of John Goldsmith to that office.
Write official letter to CT proposing wages for E. W. Ward's sappers and miners temporarily assisting at Mint. Letters for £150,000 of silver coins were sent.
Some difficulty about locating a particular standard pound weight, and the letter requesting the use of it [see JH's 1853-6-20].
Gives instructions as to how to prepare a piece of copper for coining.
Expresses grave concern at interest in ideas of table turning among many of the boys at Clapham school. Writes of importance of the education of the next generation. Reiterates his claim that all force is associated with will.