Faraday to Joseph Henry   23 July 1851

Royal Institution London | 23 July 1851.

My dear Dr. Henry

I received your last letter¹ and herewith enclose Mr Vulliamy’s receipt, I thought I had sent it in the former letter² but found out my mistake[.]

Your account of the country you have been through excites me far more than Palaces or Exhibitions. The beauties of nature are what I most enjoy. Scenery and above [all] the effects of light & shadow Morning & Evening & Midday or a storm or a cloudy sky[.] My predilection is for out of door beauties & just now I and my wife have run away from London to the seaside³ to get quiet & rest. My head even now aches & I feel very weary[.]

When I left London I had not received the Engraving of the Smithsonian Building but I dare say I shall find it upon my return[.] I thank you very heartily for it. I did not know Mr Smithson⁴ though I think I used to hear his name I was then of no consequence[.] My wife send[s] her kindest remembrances with mine.

Ever My dear friend | Yours Very Truly | M. Faraday

Endorsed: Recd 8 Aug