Thomas describes his difficulties in getting published two works: 'The solar system', and 'The practical astronomer'. He comments on Fauvel Gouraud's works on phrenomnemotechny and expresses interest in Miles's work on mnemotechny. Thomas discusses at length his poor financial position as a writer. He states that he cannot himself visit America because of the cost and his opposition to slavery would in any case preclude a visit to the Southern States.