No summary available.
No summary available.
CD accepts going with Capt. FitzRoy. Explains earlier refusal as owing to his father’s disapproval.
CD wants to request the assistance of Government to support the expense of the numerous engravings necessary for the publication of the results of the extensive collections in various departments of Natural History during the Beagle voyage. To what quarter should he apply?
With great reluctance due to his plans for the future, JH agrees to let his name stand in nomination for the Presidency of the R.S.L.
Expresses his views to FB about the meeting of the Admiralty, Greenwich Observatory, [and members of the Astronomical Society?] held the previous day.
In reply to FB [see FB's 1831-8-25], JH believes that [Henry] Taylor, the person who had done all the reductions of the observations [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue, should be asked to write the preface, both by reason of his familiarity with the material, as well as having earned the right to do so.
Remarks by JH on proof sheet of Henry Taylor's catalog of circumpolar stars observed by Stephen Groombridge. Why is Gerard Moll, a foreigner, engaged in purely English controversy? JH wants no part of Charles Babbage and James South in this matter. Regrets JH's earlier statements. Sends extract from [Richard] Copeland's letter.
Grieved to hear of Fearon Fallows broken state of health; in response to FB's request, JH reviews a number of possible candidates to succeed Fallows.
Expresses JH's preferences with respect to the appointment of the Cape Observatory astronomer in terms of the choices available [Follow-up letter to JH's 1831-9-13].
Is returning the proof of [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue. Comments on the expense of printing it. Is pleased that Thomas Henderson has been appointed Cape Astronomer.
Comments on the work of T. G. Taylor in reducing the observations for [Stephen] Groombridge's catalogue, and on an appropriate remuneration for the work. Enclosed are comments for the benefit of Taylor.
Comments on the instructions for the Cape Astronomer and adds some of his own.
Responds to FB's request for advice regarding instructions for Thomas Henderson upon taking the position at the Cape Observatory. Suggests Henderson supervise tidal observations, but not get involved in measurement of arc of meridian. Hopes to see Henderson before his departure, but JH's mother now gravely ill.
Offers opinions about the instructions to be furnished to the Cape astronomer, especially about tide and meteorological observations, and about surveying an arc. JH hopes to see Thomas Henderson before Henderson leaves for the Cape to assume the post of astronomer there.
Responds to FB's request for advice on a political document prepared by Thomas Drummond analyzing parliamentary representation and taxation in mathematical terms.
Answer to FB's queries regarding chronometers.
Sent as a letter of introduction for Captain [William] Edie, who was hurt on an expedition in southeastern Africa, and who knows much about the region.
Has received the letters and parcels safely. Is starting reducing his sweeps. Observations in Dublin Observatory. Comments on the various functions of observatories. News of scientific events at the Cape and various expeditions in progress.
Has been observing Halley's Comet —'altogether the most beautiful thing I ever saw in a telescope.' Comet has tripled in diameter during the last week.
Has received Francis Baily's Account of the Rev. John Flamsteed [1835]. Comments that its best part is Baily's restoration of the British Catalogue. JH now thinks less of Flamsteed.