To Thomas Archer Hirst   Saturday | 19th. April, 1856.

Royal Institution, Saturday | 19^th. April, 1856.

My dear Tom

I wrote to you a long letter¹ some days ago and had it duly posted, since then I have heard nothing from you until your note this morning² fell into my hands: I reply to it at once.

I cannot do better than forward the note to Col. Wynne. Of course my dear Tom I know there is no mixture of selfishness in your advice; in fact I rather feel that it is pure self sacrifice on your part. Col. Wynne called on me a few days ago he at that time expressed a strong disinclination to let Eddy come forward in July,³ and an equally strong desire that he should remain near you for 6 months longer. I have little doubt that this will be his decision when he reads your excellent note. I know nothing regarding the continuation of the examinations, but he I doubt not will ascertain this at the War Office in Pall Mall. I promised to ask you whether it was not from you that Eddy was to have his knowledge of electricity, magnetism, and heat. I take it for granted that this is the case. You will I doubt not hear from Col. Wynne soon after he receives your note. I will post it to him at once or perhaps take it to him.

I am greatly concerned to hear of the state of Anna’s health.⁴ I have however little fear of her lungs. But Fox’s⁵ advice is undoubtedly the best. have London advice if matters dont soon mend. My faith is that when this east wind which now searches the bones and marrow of us all vanishes she will sprout out again like one of the spring flowers.

Ever affectionately | John

RI MS JT/1/HTYP/443

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