Letter to [Edinburgh Philosophical] Journal calling attention to 1809 article by [Paul] Erman of Berlin, which some say anticipated JH's 1824 Bakerian lecture on 'Motions produced in fluid conductors when transmitting the Electric current.' JH compares both papers, admits Erman's priority on some theoretical points but claims originality for JH's experiments.
Defends William Herschel's views against charges of hostility to religion. Describes his father as 'a sincere believer in, and worshipper of, a benevolent, intelligent, and superintending Deity....","L
Received [?]'s inquiry of 1 Feb. Lists all biographical notices pertaining to William Herschel. Comments in detail on biography and philosophy of WH in David Brewster's Edinburgh Review.
If JS has not already passed on to Humphry Davy JH's letter of 1823-12-21, JS should do so immediately. If post of Astronomer Royal should become vacant, JH would be interested in it, but would not wish to work with Stephen Lee, then under consideration for appointment as head assistant at Greenwich.
Wishes JS immediately and confidentially to pass on to Humphry Davy JH's letter of 1823-12-21, making clear that JH does not favor appointment of Stephen Lee as head assistant at the Royal Observatory. Has heard that JS has felt that JH slighted JS in JH's letter. Denies this.
Acknowledges letters from AB and French Board of Longitude received by Astronomical Society. Thanks for care given to JH's reflecting theodolite by Mr. Schenk. Promises copy of JH's and James South's [1824] article on double stars. Hopes to hear from J. B. Fourier regarding biography of William Herschel.
Orders missing issues of Astronomische Nachrichten. Answers HS's question about JH's essay on Physical Astronomy. James South's testimony 'vindicated' Josef Fraunhofer's repeating micrometer to Edward Troughton. C. F. Gauss's mode of determining powers of telescopes. Nothing heard of Captain [Maughan?]. Directions for sending [K. L.] 'Harding's atlas' to JH. Gives J. F. Daniell's address. Astronomical Society is gratified that HS dedicated book to it. Shall direct Robert Molyneux to send L. A. Fallon's clock to HS.
Regarding the First Assistant at Greenwich Observatory, and the possibility of JH ever becoming Astronomer Royal. Hopes to see him on Wednesday.
Receipt and shipment of various papers and letters. Robert Molyneux has not received payment for clock. JH ordered another for L. A. Fallon; it is ready to ship. Clarifies Edward Sabine's remark about pendulums. Hopes to translate JL's Analytical Geometry. JH translated JL's 'empirical formula of refraction.' Believes JL's method of determining latitude without knowing the time is not new. Notes J. W. A. Pfaff's translation of William Herschel's works.
Approves of the plan for the observatory. Comments on some of the features. Good equatorial is a necessity. Will try to obtain a copy of the plan of the Cambridge Observatory.
JH's theory of colors. Edward Troughton has DB's instrument one-third completed. When will DB want JH's encyclopedia article on 'Variation'?
Sends GA information about indices of refraction in different glasses and in different parts of the spectrum; also recommends the writings of Josef Fraunhofer.