[Form letter] Asks friends of Mr. Griffin, candidate for Librarian, to return to Cambridge for election vote on 3 Apr.

Agrees that vacancy in chemistry professorship left by J. F. Daniell's death at King's College should be filled by Robert Hunt, but W. A. Miller appears likely to get job.

JH misunderstood ES's method for organizing St. Helena meteorological observations. Problem defining seasons for tropical stations. Received more replies to JH's circular. Difficulty of making hourly observations in European observatories, where civilian assistants are employed. Does not agree with Humphrey Lloyd that self-registering instruments will soon replace observers. Invited [L. F.] Kämtz to [B.A.A.S. meeting at] Cambridge. Believes that Elias Loomis will become leading meteorologist in U.S.

Agrees with JH that the Government Observatories at the Cape and St. Helena require mature consideration. Greenwich observations are a different matter and were suggested by the R.S.L. Committee of Physics. Has directed the minute to be sent to JH. Has been studying the wet bulb question.

How has he fared during the spell of cold weather? What does he think of A. J. Ellis's colored circles? Would like the last two volumes of the R.S.P.T. containing the account of the comet. Encloses some impromptus.

Further regarding the inscription for the memorial to Francis Baily. Has forwarded it to the executors and translated it for Elizabeth Baily. Wire pens satisfy him.

Queries relating to the actinometer. Is a candidate for the position of Lecturer in Chemistry at the East India Company's College.

The magnetic and meteorological observatories were never part of any other system. Is not certain whether the Visitors had anything to do with these observatories. Captain Herbert in an Indian journal has proposed a formula for the wet bulb thermometer. Has arranged for the notice to be sent to JH.

Lord Minto [Gilbert Elliot] forgot about publication arrangements. Lt. [Home?] and Lt. [?] Clark left Cape of Good Hope for Antarctica on 9 Jan. Reply from C. F. Gauss. German copies of Toronto observations were delayed in Cologne.

Chair of Astronomy in the University of Edinburgh is vacant. Has had the son of Capt. W. H. Sm[y]th recommended as a suitable candidate. Would like JH's views on the suitability of Sm[y]th for the position.

The epitaph has been sent to be drawn onto the stone. Comments on some of the wording. Sends some Alderton's blotting paper and the compliments of the season.

Thanks JH for recommendation of C. P. Smyth. James South returns from Ireland; reports great observing conditions there.