Faraday to Thomas Andrews   30 August 1852

Royal Institution | 30 August 1852

My dear Andrews

When I received your last letter¹ & the instructions from the Secretaries as to the Routes², I made up my mind to leave London on the Sabbath Eveg³ &, passing by Dublin, to be with you on the Monday evening, for the rest of the time. But since that I have been so weak & depressed as to rejoice that I was not with you in that state, as I should have been a mere burden; & shackle on your kind exertions to others:- indeed home & even the bed room were the only fit places. I do not know whether it was the season or not - I cannot tell - it was one of the old time depressions[.] I am better now but not in a fit state for the excitement of the meeting. I may go on improving & if I feel able enough mean to fulfil the intentions:- still I hardly expect it;- I could not come as I am; and I do not know which way matters will go this week. I shall be sorry, & much disappointed, to be away; but I ought not to complain, and when I do so, & murmuring thoughts arise, it seems to me that I am very ungrateful to a kind providence.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous meeting in every case and with most earnest thanks to Mrs. Andrews & yourself for your great kindness I am

My dear Andrews | Yours gratefully | M. Faraday