| RefNo | MS/257/1/172 |
| AltRefNo | Sa.172 |
| Previous numbers | ES1/26/172 |
| Level | Item |
| Title | Letter from William Radcliffe Birt, Kew Observatory to John Phillips |
| Date | 21 December 1849 |
| Description | Birt is sending Phillips two drawings for the plates of his report [not enclosed]. Birt expresses the difficulty with which he has finished his report despite the ‘unpleasant circumstances’ [referring to the difficulties working with Mr Francis Ronalds]. Birt has been indisposed on three occasions due to an ‘affection of the heart’ from which he is just recovering. Discussion on the reduction of the plates, and lithographs.
Birt discusses the position he should hold at the Kew Observatory. It appears to Birt that attempts have been made to make his position less than a mere assistant. Birt thanks Phillips for his ‘kind note’ to Mr [Charles] Wheatstone. Mrs Birt was informed by Mr Ronalds that Birt had come to the Observatory in the place of Mr Galloway and that the ‘chor woman’ had been tasked ‘to take off the rough work from’ Birt, and to act as ‘servant’ to Mr Ronalds. Mr Wheatstone hopes to consult with Edward [Sabine] on the matter.
Birt describes his interview with Mr Wheatstone and the contents of their discussion. Mr Wheatstone has agreed to support Birt’s application to the Royal Society for a grant of £50 in order to enable him to continue his investigation on atmospheric waves. |
| Extent | 4p |
| Format | Manuscript |
| PhysicalDescription | Ink on paper |
| AccessStatus | Open |
Fellows associated with this archive
| Code | PersonName | Dates |
| NA7560 | Phillips; John (1800 - 1874) | 1800 - 1874 |