Description | Family transcription of Sir John Herschel's original diary. The volume describes Herschel's scientific and social life, including his work at the Royal Mint. He records routine meteorological and astronomical observations. The volume commences with multiple [medical] visits from 'Mr Shaw', noted in name only. Later in the year he comments upon a re-opened abcess on his right leg, consulting Shaw again on 4 March and thereafter. On 10 February, Herschel dines with the Chancellor of the Exchequer in order to discuss his resignation from the Royal Mint. He records the energy and efficiency of Henry Drury Harness with Lord Palmerston on 14 March. In the period 15-25 July, Herschel undergoes several minor surgical operations by Duncan Stewart and a Mr Young for abcesses, commenting: 'By this time there is hardly room for more cuts above the knee'. However more are made in mid-August under chloroform. Herschel reports fine meteor showers from 9 August. By September he is well enough to travel with family members to Abbeville and Amiens, returning via Boulogne on 24 September. His illness recurrs from 27 September and on 19 November he reports: the mischief is done and my cure has to recommence now for the third time'.
With a note on the cover page '1855'. |