Faraday to Christian Friedrich Schoenbein   22 April 1862

The Green | Hampton Court | 22 April 1862

My dear Friend

I received yours a week or two ago¹ and was so much struck with the philosophic matter in it that I sent it of at once to the Phil. Mag.² so that I have not your letter with me nor have I the power of ascertaining (being here) when I wrote to you last³. I did not think it had been long ago but I know that after a month or five weeks I lose all count of the interval of time. I am glad you do not forget me & I thank you heartily for reproving me but alas that does not mend the matter i e the memory and you must just bear with me whilst I go on failing[.]

I have not made Nitrite from the atmosphere yet by your method but the paper you sent me astonishes me by its power when tested. I think that discovery very great. You are indeed a wonderful case & a great encouragement to all philosophers young & old to persevere. In continuing to think you remind me of Newton⁴ & his results & reward.

For myself I am well and happy but unproductive. Whilst I struggled against nature I often made myself ill & weary but since I resign myself I am far better & quite contented. It would be strange if I were not - for though I fall out of the ranks of the philosophers I do not lose my friends. Ever My dear Schoenbein

Your friend | M. Faraday