Copy letter, from Sir John Herschel to Henry Venn[?], dated at Collingwood Copy of a letter, copied as part of the correspondence project led by Colonel John Herschel FRS following the death of his father. Responds to a letter received long ago concerning sounds. Is convinced that a 'new printed and written character' is needed. Suggests consulting Pitman's phonotype system. Believes joint use of Roman, italic, and Greek characters would create a more complete system. Stresses that he is willing to correspond, but is unable to meet in person. Lists difficulties with the [Isaac] Pitman phonetic system for writing Oriental languages in the Roman alphabet. Problems include inaccurate vowel usage. Suggests a revised system. 2 August 1848