Visited JH at Mint today. Notes JH's health and recovery. JH reminisced of childhood episodes with William Herschel.
About the school progress of sons John and Alexander; JH is in a very depressed state, looks at his current life [at the Mint?] with 'loathing,' and cannot imagine surviving it for more than a few months.
About the health of JH's servant [?], Knowles.
Directions for sending mail to son Willy [in India?]; about daughter Margaret Louisa's health, the family bills, some stories about people JH met at a dinner, and finally, JH's despair about his work.
Very depressed and concerned about the family finances, both short and long term.
Has recovered from his depression [see JH's 1854-2-1]; sees a possibility of a new position as a Civil Service appointment examiner.
JH feels harassed by life and finds solace in MH's letters; thinks electricity could operate the Jacquard loom and the pianoforte. Argues against a recent book [William Whewell's Of the Plurality of Worlds], which claims the earth is the only inhabited body in the universe.
The effect of the Crimean War on the Mint, and on the family, for example, daughter Caroline will want to follow her husband as close to the war area as possible [see JH's 1854-2-15].
Daughter Caroline is preparing for the problems that the Crimean War may bring; JH has applied for an Examinership [see JH's 1854-2-1 to 15].
Duties of Examiner of superannuation claims for Treasury will not permit JH to live in Collingwood and may be more burdensome than those of Mint. Upset at losing Charles Elouis, who will leave Mint to replace Mr. Watt as superintendent of bullion at mint in Sydney. Concern for daughter Caroline, whose husband, [A. H.] Gordon, leaves before March, leaving her alone in Malta when 'her hour is due.'
About Willy's success, and about the weather and JH's health.
Is looking forward anxiously to coming to Collingwood on Friday; the Mint had a surprise visit from the Queen this day.
Comments on the health of MH and daughters Margaret Louisa and Francisca, and then JH complains of his own health problems.
Mostly about a Mrs. [J. A.] Gordon, who has suffered a personal loss [death of her husband], and a young man who seems to be lost.
Mrs. Newton, MH's servant, is being sued by a man who recommended her for the job, and JH is to be a witness in MH's stead.
Writes to MH to insist that JH not come to the meeting [see JH's 1854-3-23].
Mostly about the court case [see JH's 1854-3-22]; it appears the plaintiff lost.
Describes how to use the telescope at Collingwood, and comments on a number of people, including some of their children.
Complains about the work involved in selecting professors for Melbourne University [see JH's 1854-4-6].
Comments on JH's health, daughter Margaret Louisa's trip to John William Lubbock's, and on the Preston Strike.