Presents best wishes to Lady Herschel. Regrets not having met on account of meeting with [G. B.] Airy at Greenwich. Is keeping four pictures of JH and has offered 2 additional ones to Prince Albert.
Reports detailed observations on humble-bees boring holes in flowers to extract nectar instead of brushing over the stamens and pistils. Some hive-bees seem to use the holes made by the humble-bees; speculates that this would be a case of acquired knowledge in insects.
Consents to be godfather to WDF’s child.
Sends family news.
Sends elephant tooth from Africa. Suggests it may be interesting in light of his [mistaken] memory of Cuvier’s opinion about tusk brought from Peru by Humboldt.
Asks for JH's comments on George Peacock's assessment that the Report of the Standards Commission [see GA's 1841-7-27] is directed too much to scientific men, and others will not understand it; suggests an appendix to show the relationship between the proposed measures.
Has received JH's 'Report' proof regarding JH's description of specific gravity. Captive balloons. Would JH refer him to D. F. J. Arago's experiments on the shadow of a disk.
Comments specifically on the accuracy of surveyors' chains [see JH's 1841-8-13], together with brief comments on a few other matters.
Outlines suggestions from [Drinkwater-]Bethune for improving 'Report of Standards.' Bethune distinguished Exchequer, Local, and Parliamentary (or National) standards, and preserved unit called 'land chain' equal to twenty yards.
Thinks that there should be more definite instructions for the Directors of the Magnetical Observatories. Has drawn up a paper, which if JH agrees with, can be signed and printed for distribution. Points out the significant parts. There should be a common nomenclature for the weather.
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Encloses catalogue of 1677 stars. Has sent his own report on star nomenclature to Plymouth. Will call at his house later in the week.
Hears with pleasure of the peace reigning at the Cape between the Caffres. The Boers are a different proposition and JH agrees with GN's policy. J. R. Innes called in on his way to Scotland. Weather in England is gloomy, like the political events.