Has been considering the reasons for the great depression of the barometer in November 1840. Thinks JH may be interested in the enclosed essay. Would be pleased if it could be read to the Royal Society.
Supports the remeasurement of N. L. Lacaille's geodetic arc in South Africa, giving a number of reasons for his support.
Comments on the operational and organizational details of the magnetic and meteorological observatories, and on the supervisory committee's [the Physical Committee of the R.S.L.] responsibilities.
Is grateful for referring him to Capt. Ludlow. Has now moved himself to Falmouth. What does JH think of the chances of success of a popular book on photography? He is contemplating the idea. Hears that J. B. Biot considers the production of colored drawings impossible, but is not convinced himself. Encloses description and drawing of a very clever instrument.
Has not lately done much work in photography, except to work with paper treated with vegetable substances.
Returns with grateful thanks the example of photographs recently sent him. They open up a new field of curious processes. Will not have much time this summer for photographic experiments as he is carrying out a series of investigations into the air of mines. Has been experimenting with the cyanurets.
Her brother has sent JH's letter and she will be only too pleased to send her poems for whatever purpose he requires them.
Further about the map printing problem [see FB's 1841-4-6].
Sending some papers he should have returned earlier. Anxiety regarding his brother is relieved by the acquittal of Captain Levick. Will possibly return to England now.
Enjoying a couple of days idleness. Regrets to hear about the proposed new road. Suggests ways of preventing it if on JH's land. Proposes a February visit.
Sends back the slips. Does not approve of the phrase transcendentalists. Regrets that the subject forms a review; it is worth a treatise. Is working hard on his book. Would like to raise some rose trees for Lady Herschel.
Willy [Herschel] is doing well and is looking much healthier. Has hired a pony for him to ride. The family doctor has given him a good examination.
Will bring Willy [Herschel] to town tomorrow. Comments on his health. Has been trying to buy the Shetland pony for him.
The Master of Trinity has resigned and there are intrigues on foot to bypass William Whewell. Outlines the people interested in the appointment. Not much they can do but JH might pass a word to Hugh Percy (3rd Duke of Northumberland).
William Whewell is Master of Trinity and he will write to Hugh Percy (3rd Duke of Northumberland).
The health of Mrs. Jones is slowly improving. Picked up the enclosed medal a little while ago. Believes the reverse depicts the scaffolding of Sir William Herschel's telescope.
Sends some extracts from the Acts. Regarding the enforcement of the rates. To Lady Herschel: Should have let him know when they were in town. Believes Mrs. Jones is going on well at Brighton. Sets out for Cambridge to see William Whewell tomorrow. Hears rooms of Henry VIII have been opened for parties.
Has been confined to the house and only goes out in a wheelchair. Would JH like the bust of Sir Joseph Banks?
Arranges a meeting with CW and Edward Sabine to discuss Kew [magnetic] observations.
Gives brief details of the work of the magnetic observations since JH's last record. Arrangements have been completed for the publication of some of the observations.