No decision has yet been made about closing or moving the observatory, but thanks JH for his letter [see JH's 1852-5-19], which may become useful support for retaining the observatory.

Lists volumes for JH sent to R.S.L. One includes observations of transit instrument of 1836-1839. Also follow-up on climate of Belgium. Thanks for wonderful reception in London.

Describes second edition of AE's phonetic Latinis alphabet, referred to by JH in Admiralty Manual. Sent copy to C. K. J. Bunsen. This will be discussed at Society of Arts's Education Exhibition on 31 July. Encloses printed circular. Hopes JH will attend.

Thanks JH for JH's review of AH's Cosmos. Recommends E. H. DuBois-Reymond to JH's attention.

Has a copy of JH's book on astronomy, which AC values. Has been carrying out experiments with the grinding of object glasses. Remarks on various points relating to telescopes. Intends to search for double stars.

Has found an error in the printed list he sent recently. Wonders if a certain star listed has ever been observed as a double.

[JH note:] Annibal de Gasparis acknowledged receipt of JH's Cape Results [sent in 1847] 'by letter of March 21/52!!'

Has discovered another new planet [Psyche]. Gives readings.

Has been examining and sorting all Francis Baily's correspondence with a view to its preservation. Suggests Greenwich as a suitable repository for most of it. Will be returning JH's letters for his selection of important letters to be preserved.

The job [of sorting Francis Baily's correspondence] may be done at leisure. All his family are at Herne Bay. Regarding chronology. Annibal De Gasparis will be equal with J. R. Hind when he locates another planet. Is astonished how well books last.

Expects a salary increase now that BP has the title of Chief Medalist.

Finds it scandalous that BP has been promoted without an increase in salary: '... in this Establishment, I have been degraded from what was my due as an Artist.' Wishes to take up the matter with the Treasury.

Asks JH to give him a few days before making a reply to the proposed pension offer.

Thanks JH for proposing a memorial and retirement allowance for him to the Treasury, but insists on a £500 allowance (his old salary) and a residence at the Mint.

Desires more time before making an official response to the Treasury's retirement offer.

Sends JH a copy of a request to the Lords of the Treasury for a pension settlement [see BP's 1852-1-24].

Awaits a response to his pension proposal.

Rejects the Treasury's offer as 'dishonorable and degrading to my character as an artist.' Disagrees with combining the offices of Clerk of Irons, Superintendent of Machinery, and Chief Coiner. Lists eleven names of Mint officers, comparing years of service in relation to their retirement settlements. Proposes to accept £400 annual salary with the title of Her Majesty's Chief Medalist.

Refuses JH's proposal that BP accept the title of Modeller and Engraver with a £400 salary. Also requests that the monthly coal allowance for BP's workshop be restored.

Ceases receiving coal supply to his office, an allowance made to BP for 35 years. Mint owes him four months' salary. Makes a reference to plight of G. B. Airy, who might be turned out of his residence at the Royal Observatory.