Faraday to Dawson Turner   12 November 1847¹

Royal Institution | 12 Novr. 1847

My dear Sir

Your kind words set set my pen in motion for though my wife writes for me now in answer to my general correspondence I could not depute the conveyance of my remembrances & thanks to you to the hand of another. I am very well in physical health but require as the medical men say cessation from the use of the powers of the brain. You say you have only memory left:- for my part I often think it is the only thing I have lost for I cannot find that any thing fatigues me but that which calls upon it and on the other hand that any thing requiring its exertion, even the most moderate conversation for instance wears me & soon renders the head confused. It is for this reason that I have for a time made my wife my secretary and that I see no callers. Otherways I am well & with care expect to do very well in this respect also as long as life may be given me. Under every circumstance I have great reason to be content & happy and hope I am so.

Your herrings arrived safe & fine fellows they are. I have already enjoyed one or two of them & shall think of your kindness both in eating them & long after they are gone[.]

Ever My dear Sir | Yours Most Truly | M. Faraday

Dawson Turner Esq | &c &c &c