Faraday to Edwin Atherstone   2 February 1861

[Royal Institution embossed letterhead] | 2 Feby 1861

My dear Sir

You know my infirmity of loss of memory, - it is that which makes me cut off all new society as much as possible. I see by your hand writing that one is alive whom I thought had been removed from this world long since. I hope that except your rheumatic affection you are in good health & happy.

As to the ice I do not believe that concussion of masses would produce sparks of fire in the common acceptance of the words, but ice when cold & dry is phosphorescent under friction & it is very possible that the concussion of masses in that state might render them more or less luminous at the moment.

Ever My dear Sir | Truly Yours | M. Faraday

Edwin Atherston[e] | &c &c &c

Endorsement: Faraday concerning fire sparks from ice

Address: Edwin Atherston[e] | &c &c &c | 17 Edward Street | Portman Square | W