Reports on Francis Baily's accident and his progress. JH's 'stars' were brought to the R.A.S. and examined by Baily. Mrs. G. B. Airy's health improving. Notes William Whewell's planned marriage.
Thanks RS for the news of Francis Baily; requests an update on his condition. Criticizes 'reduced map' prepared by [James] Basire. Has drawn up a catalogue to go with his paper, as RS requested, arranged in regions. Praises William Whewell's choice of a bride.
Updates Francis Baily's medical condition, noting that it is more serious than RS had thought. Thinks [James] Basire missed JH's meaning. Suggests how to improve the engraving, perhaps using pewter. Explains that he wants the catalogue to serve the needs of expeditions.
Regarding his recent experiments with light in crystals of alum etc.
Is sending him his chart of the stars.
JH's paper was read last evening and was well received. Astronomical Council has decided to print it immediately. Would like his opinion on the printing of various parts. Has paid John Arrowsmith's bill.
Regarding the printing of the star map. Is pleased to hear that the FBs are coming to spend a few days at Hawkhurst.
Received WB's report on barometer observations. Admires perfect finish of work.
[Composite letter written by JH, Margaret Herschel, and their daughter Caroline.] JH sends thanks to JC for gifts for the children and also sends JC some specimens of photography.
Margaret Herschel and JH congratulate WW on his engagement to marry. JH sending WW an imperfect copy of JH's review of WW's Philosophy of the Inductive Sciences.
Thanks for JH's review of WW's Philosophy of the Inductive Sciences. Admits that too much of it was written in a 'spirit of needless pugnacity.' Believes that JH's and WW's views are closer than may appear.
JDH received his mother, Lady Maria Hooker's, letter of 1 Feb through Sir John Franklin. He reacts to the news that his youngest sister Mary [Harriet Hooker] is dying of a pulmonary disease, it will be a sad return if she is not there to see the curiosities he collected for her, incl. albatross eggs from Lord Auckland's Islands. The arrival of HMS 'Erebus' & 'Terror' in Van Diemen's Land [Tasmania] was announced in a Feb newspaper, he hopes this is not the only word his family has had of him as he has written many letters. He does not know how news of their arrival in Kerguelen's land has spread, possibly a whaler carried a message from Kay to Lady Franklin. Post in the admiralty bag on the 'Hebe', including despatches for Captain [James Clark] Ross, has been missent to the China fleet, JDH hopes to get this mail at Sydney. JDH reports that he is very healthy & the work on ship is making him strong. Is pleased that his father, Sir William Jackson Hooker, will likely become Director of RBG Kew - though ministers are currently preoccupied with a likely [opium?] war. Hopes his family are thinking of him on his birthday. He has received a letter from his Aunt [Elizabeth] Palgrave. JDH expects his mother's earlier, unreceived letters contain accounts of Jersey. He has a messmate named Yule from Jersey whose father was a Lieutenant of Nelson's at the battle of Trafalgar. JDH describes the climate of Hobarton [Hobart], he prefers the cold weather of the Antarctic Circle. Describes the societal delineation between descendant of convicts & other individuals. There are many wealthy families of old & new money but culture, such as literature & music is lacking. JDH hopes for more mail by the incoming ship 'Persian'. JDH thanks his father & grandfather [Joseph Hooker senior] for books & [Walter Hood] Fitch for a sketch. Briefly describes reaching the ice for the first time & the expedition's imminent return to it. Mentions Isabella [Hooker] & her child Willielma Dawson Hooker.
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