Finds FP's paper [see FP's 1864-7] interesting, but does not believe his proposal has any hope of acceptance.

Thanks WT for paper on rigidity of the earth; agrees tidal action affects not only fluid motion of earth, but the solid as well. Mentions JH's paper of the previous year suggesting that tidal waves cause earthquakes. Raises questions about the idea of the earth as a magnet and about WT's dynamical theory of heat.

Responds to [?]'s 'passionate desire to become an astronomer.' Distinguishes between doing astronomy and enjoying its discoveries. Explains training procedures.

JH's India [H.E.I.C.] investments. Looking forward to seeing John [Herschel; son of JH] when he returns on leave.

Thanks JS for JS's speech. Discusses in detail JS's views on the introduction of a gold currency into India. Believes that this is a necessity and explains why. Notes problems and advantages involved in the circulation of money based on two standards, silver and gold.

Gives his reasons for declining to join with over two hundred other scientists in signing the 'Declaration' regarding science and scripture [which was at that time being circulated].

Sends a circular and JH's response to it for possible publication.

Since writing JH's 1864-9-5 on JS's ideas regarding the introduction of a gold standard for India, JH has learned that 'the Sovereign is to be circulated at 10 Rupees.' JH discusses what he foresees as the results of this action. Offers suggestions for the future.

Is pleased with the new wife of son William; JH is very supportive of son John's developing interest in language [an interest of JH's]; JH has not heard of any proposed Himalayan observatory; is sending a copy of his nebula catalogue.

Refers son John to JH's Meteorology for help with the mechanics of dynamic wave curves; encourages John to do good whenever he has the opportunity.

On algebraic signs, riddles, and the state of JH's health.

Apologizes for not having answered earlier. JH's health has been 'indifferent.' Received 'Sur un Problème curieux de Magnetisme' yesterday. Discusses 'alleged free suspension of Mahomet's coffin.' Agrees with JP that 'establishment of a stable equilibrium under the influence of mere magnetic forces is impossible.' Elaborates on an experiment relating to the 'problem.' Lists the works by JP that he has.

Is very upset that JH's name has been attached to a group that wishes to import the 'French metrical system' into Britain; JH urges petitions or whatever is needed to retain the British system.

States unequivocally that the letter referred to in JS's 1864-10-11 has not 'a syllable' that can in any way affect the question of the conduct or character of the late Humphry Davy. JH could not conceive of publication of the letter without the express consent of the other person mentioned in it [Charles Babbage].

Encloses photograph of JH for Madame [Polko?]. Would like to receive photograph of [Edoard] Vogel. Will send six copies of JH's translations of J. C. F. Schiller's The Walk. JH corrected Schiller's error in line 85.

Sends Book XI of JH's Iliad translation. Comments on Book XI. Severe bronchitis continues.

Notes introduction of 'Worthytype' process into commercial photography. Calls attention to process discovered by JH in 1832 for purifying uranium.

Describes a method created by JH [see JH's 'Lettre ... sur ... un nouveau procédé pour effectuer la purification complète de l'oxide d'urane,' Annales de chimie, 49 (1832), 306-11] for obtaining pure uranium.

Comments on the several drawings of the same nebulae; thanks WL for the invitation to Malta but JH is too ill to accept.

Outlines his claim as being the inventor of the hyposulfite fixing process.