Copy of draft letter, from Sir John Herschel to Thomas W. Hornbuckle, dated at [56 Devonshire St.] Copy of draft letter, copied as part of the correspondence project led by Colonel John Herschel FRS following the death of his father. Declines being considered for the Lucasian professorship at Cambridge, stating his convictions 'that I shall do more for science as an independent amateur than as a Professor of any particular branch or department of it.' Proposes Charles Babbage as candidate. [Also includes draft of letter to George Peacock requesting his support for Babbage.] 13 October 1826