| Description | Before he describes Muharram, he gives an account of his uncle Duncan [Stewart], who is generous and attempting to save for his retirement. Duncan has been long secluded from Europe and his devotion to one object has narrowed his mind, William believes. Stewart wishes to perfect his hospital before he leaves, is enthusiastic about his last trip to Syria, and considers Egyptian architecture 'the model of elegance'. William describes his uncle's, and the household's routines. William is sleeping remarkably long which his uncle attributes to depression. He has tried to photograph the house and has succeeded in the negative, but has not yet printed it. He asks the family not to forget his request for silver nitrate, or his father could give him a recipe as an alternative. His own had been adulterated with copper, which spoiled pictures. He advises John [Herschel] to bring as few clothes out as possible, as trousers and coats can be made locally. He also gives instructions for packing instruments, including the construction of packing cases. William notes that he dined with Sir Lawrence Peel, his first introduction. The mail has arrived, which William lists, and describes the ascendency of Jupiter and Venus, including 'the kiss of the Man in the Moon gave to Miss Venus' [presumably an occultation, or near-occultation event]. |