From:
Sir John Herschel
To:
[Emilia Stewart]
Date:
[1 November 1851]
Source of text:
TxU:H/L-0727; Reel 1089
Summary:
JH's wife sent two pheasants [from Collingwood]. JH forwards one to 'Grandm'a.'
Contributor:
John Herschel Project
JH's wife sent two pheasants [from Collingwood]. JH forwards one to 'Grandm'a.'
Analysis of copper alloy in sovereign coin.
With death of William Wyon, chief engraver, JH wants to leave position of medalist vacant and eliminate Engraving department, turning to outside artists when needed. Proposes to deprive Benedetto Pistrucci, chief medalist, and L. C. Wyons, probationer engraver, of their residences at Mint and appoint them outside 'modellers and engravers' to Mint, retaining James Wyon, presently assistant to chief engraver, as probationary resident engraver under direction of Die department.
Encourages his son Willie to show that he deserves the favors WH has received from W. H. Sykes.
Suggests names for the satellites of Uranus, in response to a request from WL [see WL's 1851-11-3].
Congratulations to WL on his discovery [see WL's 1851-11-3]; naming should occur once the various satellites have been described and verified.
Invites GA to stay at Collingwood and explore the area for evidence of Roman occupation [see GA's 1851-11-4], and talks about a friend of JH's family. Indicates a price offered for weights, but has had no response [see GA's 1851-11-3].
As the Kew Observatory needs a standard yard, JH is proposing that they be allowed to use one of RS's as a provisional standard until Parliament acts.
Is extremely depressed at living in London, a 'howling wilderness of brick and mortar;' JH compares at some length the personality of MH and Richarda Airy; brings MH up to date on some family and acquaintance happenings, and mentions in passing that William Lassell has discovered two interior satellites of Uranus [Ariel and Umbriel].
JH has been delayed in replying to AH's 1851-8-13 because of official duties at the Great Exhibition. Comments further on several astronomical matters.
Is not very knowledgeable about local terrain that might help GA; adds comments about weight buying, and offers a solution [see GA's 1851-11-5].
No summary available.
Strong testimonial to Archbishop of Canterbury on behalf of George Waterhouse, over Richard Owen, for late C. D. E. König's position at British Museum.
Send names of persons who will provide bonds for RM's new office. JH will forward these to Treasury. Explains purpose of bond.
No summary available.
Reports decision by governors of Bank [of England] concerning which coins are best for exportation. JH suggests alloy of copper and gold for Canadian circulation.
Asks for reconsideration of £2000 security required of melter Robert Mushet, whose wages are 'very moderate.' Now that all workmen are under jurisdiction of Mint Police, JH believes that dishonesty is less likely and that securities should be reduced.
Information about some candidates for Sydney University professorships [see JH's 1851-10-29].
Partly identical to JH's 1851-11-16, but with different information about some candidates.
Case of L. C. Wyon, promoted to chief engraver, is different from those of Henry Bingley, whose office [Queen's assay master] was abolished, and of Mr. Field, who succeeded J. M. Beckwith [as resident assayer].