Has received, through the good offices of the Smithsonian Institution, a number of back issues as well as current issues of the Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society of Philadelphia. The best way to send these volumes is by way of the Smithsonian.

Thanks WS for August 29 photographs. Is sending JH's son's [John's] certificate. Pities the 'fallen Emperor' [Napoleon III].

Gives advice to son John about whom to ask for a signature for the certificate for fellowship in the R.S.L. [see JH's 1870-8-4]; talks about the war [Franco-Prussian ?], and announces the birth of a son to daughter Amelia and Thomas Wade in Peking.

Approves of ES's actinometric methods, but wonders about absorbent power of alcoholic liquid. Laments 'sad conclusion' to career of 'Hansa,' and hopes her companion is more successful.

Thanks for telegram and has dispatched papers about absorption power of actinometer liquid. Hopes letter written in Lady Sabine's handwriting does not indicate serious illness of ES.

In commenting on a paper on actinometric measurements varying with depth of atmosphere, JH questions the accuracy of the equipment used.

Will send manuscript of article by JH's daughter [?] on history of Alsace and Lorraine for publication in NM's Good Words. JH is busy compiling general catalog of all known double stars.

Thanks for grant of £50 from B.A.A.S. for calculations related to request from Georg Erman [see JH's 1870-5-6].

JH is preparing a digest of all double star observations; also comments on sunspot activity.