Expresses thanks for and comments on JH's account of JH's optical experiments. Discusses efforts to improve mathematical education at Cambridge, including WW's book on mechanics.
No summary available.
About letter writing, and the joy JG receives from his children.
Happy about Smith's intention to publish a Mantissa, believes it should take precedence over translating "Flora Britannica" into English and would be the work on which "any lasting reputation must depend". Pleased to send Smith a copy of his "Hindu Genealogies". Preparing memoirs for different maps drawn by natives of Ava, Burma, to be published in the Edinburgh Philosophical Journal. His manuscript of the Gangetic fishes with the publisher. Took the name Hamilton in order to succeed to the estate of Bardowie. Wishes to procure everything that is likely to be naturalised in a narrow wooded glen and which does not already grow in Scotland.
Welcome back to London. Explain CB's demonstration of 'theorem in transcendental arithmetic.' JH's observations of 'new acid' [hyposulfurous] and optical phenomena in 'chrystals of nitre.'
Wants his support for his own application for a post on the Board of Longitude.
Sends two copies of his book ["Primitiae florae Essequeboensis" (1818)], which he has dedicated to the Linnean Society, "renowned in England as well in the whole Continent". Intends to dedicate himself to botany; would appreciate an "alliance" with the Linnean Society. He is working on a "Flora Gottingenssis", which will include a new system of lichens and fungi and a "geognostix" description of the country. He is also writing a monograph on 'Alnus' and 'Betula'; Sir Joseph Banks has provided specimens. Asks Smith to reply via the Duke of Cambridge [Prince Adolphus (1774-1850)].
In acknowledgment of the pleasure he has derived from Smith's "Introduction to botany" sends his essay on the history and cultivation of the olive tree. His paper due to be published in America, asks Smith to advise on any necessary corrections.
Has seen William Artaud, who will be pleased to paint William Herschel's picture. Will undertake it in the new year as he is rather pressed for time at the moment. Hears that J. C. Ross and W. E. Parry have returned from the North.
Coming to terms with the death of his wife and with his new life [letter completed 1818-12-8].
Further about additional mathematical articles for the Edinburgh Encyclopaedia; comments on DB's intention to start a new 'superior' science journal.
No summary available.
When he comes up to town would he please bring Biot's work. Wants to show JH a paper on series. Has just had a visit from Edward Sabine, newly returned from Greenland.