| RefNo | MS/119/2/46 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from Charles James Buchanan Riddell, Woolwich to Humphrey Lloyd |
| Date | 8 February 1844 |
| Description | Riddell thanks Lloyd for looking over the instructions, and sending the two remaining sheets [not enclosed] for Lloyd to look over. Discussion on the observations of inclination with the poles of the needle reversed, and whether this should be mentioned in the instructions. [Edward] Sabine suggests that it should not be included, Riddell asks Lloyd’s opinion regarding this. Discussion on log indices.
Riddell thanks Lloyd for his suggestion of giving the description of the improved instruments. Riddell is anxious to get the instructions printed in time for the end of the month.
The term portable magnetic apparatus is no longer appropriate when applied to so many instruments.
Riddell agrees with Lloyd of the advantages of his instrument as the separate instruments at a fixed observatory. Discussion on the accuracy of the declination in most surveys including naval surveys.
Riddell mentions seeing [Johann von] Lamont’s universal instrument at Mr [Karl] Kreil’s. Riddell recounts being ‘astonished’ with the instrument and never having seen anything so ‘impractical’. Riddell describes the flaws of the instrument.
Riddell is glad that Lloyd has finished his new instrument before Riddell’s instructions are printed.
Riddell informs Lloyd he met Kreil and gives a positive impression of him. Riddell was unable to meet [Wilhelm] Weber or go to Göttingen. Riddell saw Gucke several times and notes he is different to Mr Kreil. Riddell mentions living with a German family in Dresden for a month, but overall being disappointed with the trip, the weather was not favourable. |
| Extent | 4p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| PhysicalDescription | Ink on paper |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA7327 | Riddell; Charles James Buchanan (1817 - 1903) | 1817 - 1903 |
| NA8252 | Lloyd; Humphrey (1800 - 1881) | 1800 - 1881 |