Faraday to William Benjamin Carpenter¹   20 April 1863

20 April, 1863.

My dear Dr. Carpenter, - Many of your recent summons have brought so vividly to my mind the progress of time in taking from me the power of obeying their call, that I have at last resolved to ask you to lay before the Senate my desire to relinquish my station, and render up that trust of duty which I can no longer perform with satisfaction either to myself or others. The position of a Senator is one that should not be held by an inactive man, to the exclusion of an active one. It has rejoiced my heart to see the progress of the University, and of education under its influence and power; and that delight I hope to have so long as life shall be spared to me.

Ever, my dear Dr. Carpenter, | Yours most truly, | M. Faraday

Dr. Carpenter, | University of London.