Philosophizes about society, college, time passing, and the 'fog' of present life. Wants to know all that is going on at Cambridge. Sends fond greetings to friends. [Letter completed 2-22].
Showing 1–9 of 9 items
Philosophizes about society, college, time passing, and the 'fog' of present life. Wants to know all that is going on at Cambridge. Sends fond greetings to friends. [Letter completed 2-22].
Hopes JH settles in Cambridge. News of their fellows. Charles Babbage's lecture popular. Includes parody on [Sir Walter] Scott.
Discovered JH was elected fellow. Reports vandalism at Trinity. Asks about [James] Grahame. Reports on Mr. Jephson's treatment of Charles Babbage.
Warmed by drink and society of 'charming' girls, JH is thinking of Whittaker, and advises him to study less. JH is enjoying reading more than did in school. Sends other news.
Comments on decaying British domestic affairs. Deplores religion 'as established by law' in contrast with religion 'established by nature.' Has felt sombre lately. Comments on music as relief from mathematics.
Comments on unfortunately aristocratic world, JW's description of Hamlet, current investigations and perhaps too deep involvement in scientific pursuits. Is correcting friend's novel (The Victim of Villainy or Travelling Tetrahedrons). Asks JW to find mineralogical specimen.
Urges to send copies of [S. F.] Lacroix's work and École polytechnique journal. James Grahame is successfully studying law. Grahame's father is staying with JH and his presence makes JH 'better and wiser.' Has been thinking much. Hopes JW will check on printing of Memoirs of the Analytical Society. [Letter completed 1813-8-3.]
Gives further instructions on sending books [see JH's 1813-8-2]. Comments on 'refractory' nature of religious thought. Is not in love, but teases JW about frequent visits to Thackerays. Recounts current heavy involvement in music, asking [Thomas?] Greenwood for help with harmonies.
Asks to JW to check on books apparently sent [see JH's 1813-8-2 & 1813-8-6], which have not yet arrived.