From George Biddell Airy 30 November 1849

My dear Sir

I received at Cambridge your note of the 24th. I have since returned and have attended Mr. Ransome's funeral, and have returned again.

I do not think of subscribing to Mr. G. Ransome's portrait because such things are not in my way, I can find better methods of showing my respect.

Your conjectural equation A. B. G. = G. B. A. is exceedingly plausible, and I think it likely that many reasons might be addressed for showing that it is a good approximation.

With best regards to Mrs Henslow I am, my dear Sir,

Yours very truly

G. B. Airy