Says he will guardedly write in his Outlines Astr. what he has to say about Neptune and the controversy surrounding its discovery. States that he eschews formulae.
Says he will guardedly write in his Outlines Astr. what he has to say about Neptune and the controversy surrounding its discovery. States that he eschews formulae.
Shall send a catalogue of double stars observed by [W. S.] Jacob. Gives some information about several measurements to establish standards.
About an astronomer for the Madras observatory. Suggests ways to reduce glare and so improve measurements [see RS's 1849-3-4].
Suggests some means of improving a paper submitted by JH; more on standard measures of length [see RS's 1849-3-4], and other R.A.S. business.
Argues that John Hind is sick from too much observing, and should be given funds to take an extended vacation.
About some unfortunate private business, and difficulty with [Francesco] De Vico's star catalogue.
About the question of a bust to be made of the late Francis Baily and how the proposal might be presented.
Asks JH to prepare an eloge of F. W. Bessel.
Left prints of Francis Baily for JH, and will send a pamphlet about a long standing controversy in which RS was involved.
Informs JH that RS will present a case for more than one medal to be awarded.
About trying to convert some surveys to a base using RS's standard yard.
Explains to JH the R.A.S. Council's intent in asking JH to be Foreign Secretary, and the arrangements that have been made when JH declined.
Having difficulty drawing the Great Nebula in Orion using both JH's and [Francesco] De Vico's observations; prints of Francis Baily are almost ready.
About organization of the executive of the R.A.S.
Is trying to straighten out the origin of the R.A.S., and giving appropriate credit.
Appreciates additional time made available by RS to allow JH to finish paper properly.
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.
Assures JH that engravers typically take for themselves a few copies of any print they have made. If a large number of these appear for sale, then it is fraud. Suggests JH not act because the engraver is 'insane' and the exposure would hurt his family.
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.
Needs the name of the print seller from whom JH's cousin bought the copy of the print of JH's portrait, so RS can learn how many copies are available. RS will then know whether to 'treat with [the printer] as an honest man or a rogue.'