From Mary Somerville   [1 March 1830]

R. H. Chelsea

_st March

My dear Sir,

I beg you will accept of my very sincere thanks for your criticism which is as just as it is friendly — I entirely concur with you in the importance of laying down the first principles with precision and clearness, and am well aware that an introduction intended for a short paper will not answer for a more voluminous work. It shall be my endeavour to fill out the outline so as to make it a distinct and perspicuous one instead of a sketch. I have only to entreat that you will not scruple to give me work, for it is my ambition to spare no pains to acquit myself of so bald an undertaking without reproach.

I hope Lady Herschel is gaining strength. With every kind regard to Mrs Herschel & yourself

Believe me ever

Sincerely yours

M. Somerville