Faraday to André-Marie Ampère   24 December 1830

Royal Institution | Decr. 24th 1830

My dear Sir

Having a few moments to spare from the continual business which oppresses me I secure them to write a few words to you not that I have any particular scientific news to tell you but to acknowledge your constant kindness in sending me copies of your papers to answer a letter of yours¹ which I have had on my desk before my eyes many weeks for that purpose and to exchange feelings of kindness & friendship with you at the same time that I express my respect for you.

I can never forget that the commencement of the kindness I have always experienced from French philosophers was by M Hachette sending me a copy of your first papers on Electo- magnetism - I knew neither him nor you directly at that time and the favour was so much the more valuable[.] Whenever Mr. Underwood is in London he tells me all about your health and your unwearied pursuit of Science[.] I wish there were more labourers like you and I wish I were more worthy of your companionship; but I live in hopes I shall have more leisure and may be able to do something which shall deserve a little more praise[.]

I trust you received the copy of my paper on glass?² I am anxious to complete that investigation and then proceed to some other branch of enquiry.

I do not know when I shall be able to see France but I do look for that pleasure some time: till when and always I am

My dear Sir | Your Obliged & faithful Servant | M. Faraday

M Ampere | &c &c &c

Address: à Monsieur | Monsieur Ampere | &c &c &c | Rue des fosses St Victor No 19 | à Paris