Alerts RS to the fact that there is an 'underhand sale' of the prints of [H. W.] Pickersgill's portrait of JH going on, as JH's cousin bought one.
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Alerts RS to the fact that there is an 'underhand sale' of the prints of [H. W.] Pickersgill's portrait of JH going on, as JH's cousin bought one.
Assures JH that engravers typically take for themselves a few copies of any print they have made. If a large number of these appear for sale, then it is fraud. Suggests JH not act because the engraver is 'insane' and the exposure would hurt his family.
Needs the name of the print seller from whom JH's cousin bought the copy of the print of JH's portrait, so RS can learn how many copies are available. RS will then know whether to 'treat with [the printer] as an honest man or a rogue.'
JH concerned not so much that a few copies of the print of JH's portrait may have been sold, but that the plate itself may have been stolen and sold. Seems relieved to know that the plate was left with the printer, not the engraver. Asks RS to make an inquiry with the printer.
Thanks RS for all the trouble he took with the problem of his portrait. Is anxious to see the specimens of the engraved nebulae of which RS spoke, but confesses little hope in photographic 'reverses' of pencil drawings. Has installed his family at Collingwood.
Argues that John Hind is sick from too much observing, and should be given funds to take an extended vacation.
Reports on Francis Baily's accident and his progress. JH's 'stars' were brought to the R.A.S. and examined by Baily. Mrs. G. B. Airy's health improving. Notes William Whewell's planned marriage.
Thanks RS for the news of Francis Baily; requests an update on his condition. Criticizes 'reduced map' prepared by [James] Basire. Has drawn up a catalogue to go with his paper, as RS requested, arranged in regions. Praises William Whewell's choice of a bride.
Updates Francis Baily's medical condition, noting that it is more serious than RS had thought. Thinks [James] Basire missed JH's meaning. Suggests how to improve the engraving, perhaps using pewter. Explains that he wants the catalogue to serve the needs of expeditions.
About some unfortunate private business, and difficulty with [Francesco] De Vico's star catalogue.
Is insistent that JH cannot perform the functions of Foreign Secretary [of the R.A.S.] as he has too much to do already, and has had to give up much of his personal scientific correspondence.
Gives his opinion of [George] Merz, stating that he has not done anything to 'distinguish himself from a mere practical follower of [Josef] Fraunhofer.' Requests that JH send encouragement to James Challis.
F. W. A. Argelander has requested the R.A.S. to pledge itself to publish one of his writings. RS notes that it is a rule of the R.A.S. not to do this, but rules can be broken if there is 'sufficient advantage.' Suggests Argelander's request be granted and that JH write him.
Urges JH to plead to Lord Palmerston on behalf of [H. C.] Schumacher. Suggests arguments JH might use. States that JH as 'chief of British astronomy by inheritance, by age & by service' is the ideal person to make this plea.
Thanks JH for the letter to Lord Palmerston on [H. C.] Schumacher's behalf. Comments on British politics.
About organization of the executive of the R.A.S.
About the question of a bust to be made of the late Francis Baily and how the proposal might be presented.
Very upset at an attack launched against JH in a manner that denigrates JH's father, William Herschel, in the process.
Discusses controversy between [George] Bishop and [W. R.] Dawes. Recommends that the R.A.S. publish a paper by Dawes correcting errors in the published work. Wants to purchase some of Francis Baily's books. Mentions RS's work on the standard of length.
Has mislaid RS's letter and forgotten the question RS asked concerning Baily's print. Asks him to refresh his memory. Could not get to the sale [of Francis Baily's books]. Gives the works of Baily that he wants to purchase.