Is much obliged for his advice regarding [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue. Will send him the proof sheets as available. Has he seen Gerard Moll's Decline of Science in England?

Of isomorphic crystals and their varying behavior in response to heat, and of double stars.

Comments on a number of astronomical matters including double stars, awarding of medals, and on the elements of [Halley's] comet.

Remarks by JH on proof sheet of Henry Taylor's catalog of circumpolar stars observed by Stephen Groombridge. Why is Gerard Moll, a foreigner, engaged in purely English controversy? JH wants no part of Charles Babbage and James South in this matter. Regrets JH's earlier statements. Sends extract from [Richard] Copeland's letter.

Favors concept of organization [B.A.A.S.] to guide scientific research and disseminate discoveries, but doubts that one is possible. Particular societies promoting special subjects are more likely to succeed. Anyone devoted to promoting such societies will have little time for research. Prefers to follow JH's own pursuits. Does not know James South's opinion.

Is grateful for his observations on the method of printing [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue. Fearon Fallows is seriously ill; does JH know of a suitable successor?

Is sending a query from Florence, also a letter from Vincenzio Antinori, which please return. Additional facts supporting his views expressed in the Decline of Science. Frederick Augustus (Duke of Sussex) has been challenged over government of the R.S.L. Engine progresses well. [Also contains draft of reply which is the same as JH's 1831-9-13.]

Is sending mirror in perfect state for Vincenzio Antinori at Florence, together with his letter. Regarding Gerard Moll's book. Has no time to spare to attend the [B.A.A.S.] meeting at York.

Grieved to hear of Fearon Fallows broken state of health; in response to FB's request, JH reviews a number of possible candidates to succeed Fallows.

Introduces Miss Hope, who has been studying mathematics with WR. WR has made some curious discoveries in Voltaic electricity.

No summary available.

Brought a copy of Mrs. Somerville's book [Mechanism of the Heavens] to Chancellor [Henry Brougham]. Wants JH to review it for the Quarterly Review. The Chancellor wishes to know if JH would like to be knighted.

No summary available.

Discusses feelings about offer of knighthood. Is ambivalent. Praises the Chancellor's [Henry Brougham's] interest in science.

Comments negatively on whether photonomy is a proper name for the study of light. Has suggested that the B.A.A.S. invite eminent scientists to survey their specialties. Discusses whether B.A.A.S. should meet at Cambridge. Has published his review of JH's Prelim. Discourse.

Still relating to the manuscript of WF's not yet returned to him [see JH's 1831-7-28], JH explains very carefully how it was sent back and where WF should look for it. [Correspondence books contain a shorter version, partly torn out.]

Thanks WW for his favorable review of JH's Prelim. Discourse. Vernon Harcourt has asked JH for his views on the establishment of a B.A.A.S. Expresses some support but numerous reservations. Responds favorably to WW's suggestion that prominent scientists prepare surveys of their specialties for the meeting.

Is sending sketches, etc., from his field book made while visiting the Isle of Wight. Disagrees with some of WF's representations.

His views on a successor to the Cape Astronomer.

No summary available.