Explains, according to the laws of probability, how the arrows should have been distributed on the archery target at St. Leonard's, and compares that with the actual distribution.
Has received packet mentioned in 1865-8-14. Lists works received. Gives lengthy explanation of the error made in the target example. Asks AQ to append a note, stating that JH is aware of the fallacious answer.
Discusses several causes of light disturbing aim in rifle-shooting. Hopes JH will be able to enlighten JS and others on this subject.
Expresses condolences on death of William Hamilton, mentioning his work and character.
Friction between Eastern Province and Western Province in Parliament causes delay in J. S. Parlby case.
Expresses gratitude over JH's sympathy for ET's father's death. Describes his last days.
Is pleased to hear of the forthcoming marriage of JH's daughter [Maria Sophia]. Was shocked to hear of the sudden death of his neighbor Admiral W. H. Smyth.
W. R. Hamilton and W. H. Smyth are dead. Corresponded with Hamilton for 30 years though only met him once. Has before him the proofs of his own paper on the origin of the + and - signs.
About old friends, alive or dead; comments on a puzzle in probability; returns to JH's old haunts.
Comments further on probability [see JH's 1865-9-14]; JH's daughter Maria is to be married; fills letter with much nonsense.
Has no information about H. T. Colebrooke. Has been corresponding with T. B. [?] Macaulay (1st Baron Macaulay) regarding the marriage of Isaac Newton's niece. Has JH heard the story of George III and his madness.
Regarding the story of George III and his reason for addressing Parliament in this way. Pleased to hear the stove is to be removed. Great need for a weather theory. Regarding the identities of the Thomas Streets.
On behalf of WH's mother, thanks JH for condolences on death of WH's father, W. R. Hamilton. Recalls boyhood visits to Collingwood.
Marriage of daughter Maria set for 12 October. Daughter Amelia will visit Whewells in November. JH's Iliad translation nearly complete.
JDH tells Asa Gray about the death of his father William Jackson Hooker, at age 80. A few days before his death WJH had given Queen Emma of the Sandwich Islands [Hawaii] a tour of RBG Kew, walked in the gardens with [Thomas] Thomson & [Miles Joseph] Berkeley & went with JDH to see the subtropical plants in Battersea Park. JDH's mother [Lady Maria Hooker] returned from Yarmouth to be by her husband's side. There is an epidemic of throat infections in Kew. JDH himself got sick with Rheumatic fever, possibly as a result of keeping vigil over his father. He went to stay with [Archibald] Campbell in Notting Hill to recuperate. He mentions some of the treatments he had & some lingering symptoms. [William Francis] Cowper [Temple] wrote offering JDH the Directorship of RBG Kew & proposing some changes to the Gardens. JDH wants proper scientific help & another assistant such as [Daniel] Oliver to help handle correspondence & work on Ferns. Discusses what assets his father leaves & the inheritance that his children will get, incl. herbarium & library which are left to JDH with instruction to offer them to the nation at a reasonable rate. JDH has heard that [Charles Robert] Darwin's health is improving under Dr [Henry] Bence Jones. JDH gives a report on the whereabouts of his children: William Henslow Hooker, Charles Paget Hooker, Harriet Anne Hooker, Brian Harvey Hodgson Hooker. Adds that his Mother and his sister Mrs [Elizabeth] Lombe are in Yarmouth & Norfolk respectively & will winter at Torquay. The only mourners at WJH's funeral were JDH's sister Maria [McGilvray], his brother in law Thomas Robert Evans Lombe, his uncle Thomas Brightwen & some old RBG Kew foremen including the old & new John Smiths.