| Description | Birt discusses a private note he wrote regarding the unfortunate results of the differences between himself and a member of the council, and clarifies that he did not write this note as a public resignation [see MS/257/1/179]. Birt remarks that he wrote the note at a time of debility, weakness, and illness. Birt had also forwarded to the same individual a certificate from his surgeon, which Birt clarifies was not intended to be a resignation [see MS/257/1/178]. Birt discusses his position at the observatory, and remarks that he was under the impression that his position was an independent one. Birt refers to resolutions passed at the Birmingham meeting. Birt discusses his efforts in taking electrical observations. Birt refers to his note in which he states he will not carry out duties in the present arrangements, an argues that his meaning is apparent. Birt discusses the pleasant experience he has had with the embers of the British Association, the confidence they placed in his capabilities, and the withdrawal of that confidence.
Birt describes starting meteorological observations, which caused offense ‘to a certain individual’, which led Birt to discontinue all meteorological and electrical observations until the [Kew] Committee had met.
Birt hopes his explanation on the context of the note will be sufficient and that it will be accepted that he did not resign. |