My dear Henry
I write in a great hurry – but I do not like to detain yr box any longer – I will make a stricter search but I have not yet been able to find the Pocket book you mention – when I do it shall be forwarded to you – I have sent you a newly invented machine <1> which will amuse you. you are to look at the light through the small aperture & keep turning the machine – you will perceive the forms to change ad infinitum <2> – it is the invention of Dr Brewster <3> – They had a had a [sic] very smart debate yesterday in the Commons – & it appears that the Princes <4> will not get the allowances they expected –
GOD bless you –
Yr mother <5> has not been well these few days but I hope will soon be better – pray write to her – a letter wd amuse her.Notes:
1. The kaleidoscope invented 1816, patented 1817.
2. Endlessly.
3. Sir David Brewster (1781–1868), Scottish scientist & journalist.
4. Probably the sons of George III who died on 29 January 1820.
5. Lady Elisabeth Theresa Feilding, née Fox Strangways, first m Talbot (1773–1846), WHFT’s mother.