It is pouring rain at Collingwood; JH writes a long but reasonably temperate review of the visit of two mesmerists; JH opposed to mesmerism because he sees it as fraudulent.
It is pouring rain at Collingwood; JH writes a long but reasonably temperate review of the visit of two mesmerists; JH opposed to mesmerism because he sees it as fraudulent.
Sends a copy of the Britannic Censor. Outlines his aims in producing this new periodical.
Replies to HF's 1845-1-12 that JH has no time to comment on HF's Britannic Censor.
Promises to become more knowledgeable about [heat?] theory in order to be able to discuss it with JL. Cautions that the subject is an intricate one.
Has had a sleepless night and a headache after yesterday's mesmerists [see JH's 1845-1-11]; talks about the children with JH, and tells a silly joke about mesmerists.
Will find the reference to S. D. Poisson in his own paper on the Heat of Vapours. The subject is in a state of confusion. John Southern's experiments are detailed in John Robison's Mechanical Philosophy, which can be sent from the R.S.L. library if JH does not possess it already.
Regarding Mr. Forster's experiments, there have been many on record. They are cheap to carry out and so it should be easy to arrive at a decision soon.
Thanks for his three invaluable letters. His own grandfather put up the first steam engine in London in 1770. His own knowledge is limited but he is expert on some things. Hopes he will keep his letter for a year.
MH has gone for a rest to St. Leonards, and JH is expecting to go there, which will allow them both to avoid a ball invitation.
Thanks for returning the catalogue marked for the books suitable for the Observatory. J. D. Forbes has purchased some to the value of £127. Intends to apply for a pension for the orphan.
Details about JH's travel to St. Leonards to be with MH [see JH's 1845-1-15]; comments on the building of a 'Free Church' at Exeter.
Cannot attend the testimonial committee meeting, but recommends that for a R.A.S. testimonial, a well written parchment would be far more effective than a bound book.
Will write to Court of Directors to ask H.E.I.C. to publish observations from Indian observatories. Needs to know where observations are stored, whether Humphrey Lloyd has reduced them, ES's reasons for making this request, best method for preparing data, and probable expense. Must go to Slough tomorrow to do business with former tenant.
On the usefulness of 'Bishmuth' candles, and some necessary additions to a future edition of AS's book.
Requests information about actinometers in JF's possession, and provides further information regarding their use.
Has received the communication and the proof, and returned the latter to the printer. Found a section had been omitted but cannot trace the manuscript at present.
Will forward JH's paper [',Amórfwta ...,' R.S.P.T. (1845), 143-53] to the R.S.L.
Is now in a position to pay to JH Francis Baily's legacy and would be glad to know in which way JH would like it paid.
Describes how JH arranged for an opening [in the Indian Civil Service] for JH's son William James at the time when he will be the proper age [see JH's 1845-1-31].
Speaks of JH's visits on the previous day; later this day, JH is to visit Mr. Plowden about a position for son William James.