TALBOT3641

Dear Talbot,

I have just received your beautiful drawings of crystals ¹ on the eve of my annual visit to Cambridge whither they shall accompany me. I have not yet got my copy of the Trans^ns and therefore have not yet seen the paper they illustrate. I intend shortly to put my microscope (one of Amici’s) ² into working order and should like to profit by your experience, and perhaps add a polarizing app^us – Have you described yours ³ in any of your papers – if not when you come to town which will I hope occur during the spring I shall get you to give me you aid. My interminable work scarcely leaves me any time for other pursuits, it does however itself advance and I have just commenced the description of the mathematical properties of the Calculating Engine.

With many thanks for your valuable present I am
Ever sincerely Yours

C Babbage

1 Dorset S^t
Manch^r Sq – ⁴
19 Jan^y 1838