To Mary Somerville   13th. Ap. 1863¹

Royal Institution 13^th. Ap.1863

Dear M^rs. Somerville

The same post brought me your note,² and also the intelligence that a cousin of mine³ for whom I have a great affection has been behaving so gallantly in America that he has been made a brigadier General. I do not know which pleased me most—your letter, or the intelligence of my cousin’s good fortune. I think it extremely kind of you to write to me as you have done; and there is certainly no gentleman philosopher now existing whose letter could give me so much pleasure as that which yours has given.

I am myself sometimes astounded at the action of these attenuated gases & vapours on radiant heat. It seems to me to open up new ideas as to the qualities & powers of matter; and it is extremely satisfactory to me to find that you take an interest in the subject.

Wishing you health & strength to pursue your labours through many coming years
Believe me | Most sincerely yours | John Tyndall

Oxford Bodleian Dep c.372 (MST-1)