Boston, May 17,1860.
My Dear Henry,
. . . On Friday I made my address to the
Natural History Society on their thirtieth anniversary, and according to all
accounts was more than usually successful. As I did not prepare in writing, I
have, of course, nothing permanent to show for it. But I suppose the chief
object was attained, and I am content.
I have been making some further experiments on photographing
the electrical light, and on binocular vision, the details of which I will send
you in my next, with the request, perhaps, that you would present them at the
Oxford meeting. I have obtained a very beautiful photographic impression of the
stratified discharge, thus showing the absence of actinic as well as luminous
rays in the dark interspaces. . . .
Mr. Alger has lately shown me a letter of yours to Herbert
Spencer in regard to the publication of the latter's works in this country. He
and Mr. Silsbee, of Salem, are interesting themselves in getting subscribers,
as I most certainly shall do. Some of Spencer's reviews, which I have read,
struck me as very remarkable productions. After a time I am sure that his
writings will be in great request with the more liberal thinkers here.
The Constitutional-Union party, at their late convention in
Baltimore, nominated Bell, of Tennessee, for President, and Everett for
Vice-President. Hillard was one of the chief speakers, and won a shower of
bouquets from the ladies. As no opinions were expressed, or principles
announced, in regard to any of the stirring questions of the day, of course all
went smoothly and pleasantly.
I was saddened to hear yesterday that Theodore Parker has
been rapidly going down, and that he is not expected to be able to leave
Florence. Desor has been with him, and perhaps is still his companion. But
probably you know more of his condition and purposes than we do. . . .
Your affectionate
brother,
William.
SOURCE: Emma
Savage Rogers & William T. Sedgwick, Life and Letters of
William Barton Rogers, Volume 2, p. 33-4
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