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Whittaker/Folder 18/2
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- 21 July 1822 (Letter is dated 21 July, with no year, but 1822 likely as refers to Whittaker's appointment to Blackburn, which was 1822.) (Creation)
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Congratulates him on his appointment to Blackburn. He now has a higher opinion of bishops! Refers to the divisions within the parish and advises Whittaker to be a friend to the poor. He has been seriously ill with a stomach inflammation, and put his affairs in order expecting death, though his mind and faith remained strong while he was so ill. He has now mercifully recovered. Health permitting, he plans to forward to England in April or May a catalogue of the southern stars above the fifth magnitude. He is determined to be ahead of the Cambridge Observatory, despite working in 'such a barren miserable quarter of the globe'. His methods allow him to get through a lot of work quickly. Once he has examined the nebulae and double stars with the large instruments he will think of returning home - perhaps in 12-14 years if his health permits. Asks Whittaker to find him a curacy when he returns that will give him plenty of spare time in which to produce his last catalogue. Has met with two ships' captains recently and asked them to forward their observations. His wife sends congratulations and advises Whittaker to marry immediately. Asks to be remembered to the Master and Fellows of St John's, Dr Pearson and Mr Troughton.