Talks about problems of observing nebulae—one of which seems to have changed—and one of which is in the catalogue and does not seem to exist.
Talks about problems of observing nebulae—one of which seems to have changed—and one of which is in the catalogue and does not seem to exist.
Forwarded both of John's papers on solar observations to William Huggins. Comments on solar prominences and spots, and on Eta Argus. Concern for Esther's fever. Report of 'great meteor' seen at Collingwood. Alexander Herschel came home from Glasgow with new device called 'bicycle' that amuses neighbors. Explains optics problem in telescopes. English system of measures.
Glad for Mary's recovery. Congratulations on John's promotion to captain. Suggests method to study solar prominences without spectroscope. [Letter continues 15 June:] Alexander Herschel reports that G. B. Airy tried this method unsuccessfully long ago, but JH is sure it will work.
Asks son John to stop at the British Museum and get the completion of a quotation JH needs; also asks John to pick up JH's R.S.P.T. copies not picked up recently.
Is not prepared to come to any distinct conclusions about the effect of local attractions in geodetic surveying, but talks about the problem for the whole letter.