Having been assured by ES that the government might receive a request for more money for magnetic observations, JH retreats from his earlier position [see JH's 1844-7-17], and is willing to accept the possibility of a magnetic conference, which JH does not want to lead in any way. JH believes his scientific life is almost over and he has much to do.

Will try to organize an international magnetic conference at the B.A.A.S. meeting in 1845, if GA agrees.

Informs HL of the intention of holding a magnetic congress at the meeting of the B.A.A.S. in 1845, and JH seeks HL's opinion.

'Penny Post' is deluging JH with nuisance mail. Reviews JH's efforts to obtain object glass for equatorial telescope at Cape of Good Hope. Trying to convince G. B. Airy to purchase from Merz and Mahler in Munich, rather than from William Simms. Russia is using TM's 'Cape Arc' in survey of its entire country.

Seeks WW's advice on a proposal that an international magnetic congress be held in conjunction with the 1845 B.A.A.S. meeting in Cambridge.