the time I
am writing, there are twenty-six private observatories in Great Britain
and Ireland, furnished with first-rate instruments, with which some of
the most important astronomical discoveries have been made.

[I received the following letter from my mother while we were at
Genzano. It is one of several which record in her natural and
unaffected words my mother's profound admiration for Sir John
Herschel.]

MRS. SOMERVILLE TO MISS SOMERVILLE.

SYDENHAM, _1st September, 1844_.
_Sunday Night._

MY DEAR MARTHA,

... We go to the Herschels' to-morrow, and there I shall finish this
letter, as it is impossible to get it in time for Tuesday's post,
but I have so much to do now that you must not expect a letter every
post, and I had no time to begin this before, and I am too tired to
sit up later to-night....

COLLINGWOOD, _Monday_.

This appears to be a remarkably beautiful place, with abundance of
fine timber.... W. brought your dear nice letter; it makes me long
to be with you, and, please God, I shall be so before long, as I set
off this day fortnight.

_Wednesday._

Yesterday I had a great deal of scientific talk with Sir John, and
a long walk in the grounds which are extensive, and very pretty.
Then the Airys arrived, and we had a large party at dinner.... I
think, now, as I always have done, that Sir John is by much the
highest and finest character I have ever met with; the most
gentlemanly and polished mind, combined with the most exalted
morality, and the utmost of human attainment. His view of everything
is philosophic, and at the same time highly poetical, in short, he
combines every quality that is admirable and excellent with the most
charming modesty, and Lady Herschel is quite worthy of such a
husband, which is the greatest praise I can give her. Their kindness
and affection for me has been unbounded. Lady H. told me she heard
such praises of you two that she is anxious to know you, and she
hopes you will always look upon her and her family as friends. The
christening went off as well as possible. Mr. Airy was godfather,
and Mrs. Airy and I godmothers, but I had the naming of the
child--Matilda Rose, after Lady Herschel's sister. I assure you I
was quite adroit in taking the baby from the nurse and giving her to
the clergyman. Sir John took Mrs.