DEAR SIR,—I have not been able to do much with the telescope, a
5-1/4″ Angle-block, through the unfavourable weather for the last
four months, but with the opportunities I have had its performance
is satisfactory; it performs well on stars with high powers, and I
am sure it will bear a good deal higher. I am very well pleased with
the instrument.
Yours truly,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ THE REV. THOS. H. BROWNE, F.R.M.S., &c.
THE CEDARS, HIGH WYCOMBE,
_February 26th, 1880_.
DEAR SIR,—I am exceedingly pleased with the action of your mirror
(an 8-1/2 in. equatorial); what I have seen of sun, moon, planets,
and stars is splendid. I have had a good many telescopes, but never
liked one so well as the one you have sent me. For the first day or
two I could do nothing but admire it.
Yours truly,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ THE REV. CONYBEARE W. BRUCE, M.A., F.R.A.S.
ST. NICHOLAS’ RECTORY, CARDIFF,
_July 17th, 1880_.
MY DEAR Mr. CALVER,—You will have been looking for some news of me
and the 12″. I have purposely delayed writing until I was _really_
in a position to say something definite, and you had already heard
my high opinion of the mirror. Let me at once say that that opinion
has been _more_ than justified. The mirror is a _beauty_. Canon
Beechey and I got Jupiter and Saturn at 2.30 a.m. yesterday
morning—and they were _superb_. The Canon declared enthusiastically,
that he “had _never_ seen Saturn anything like that,” and the last
thing he said to me on the subject as I parted with him to-day was,
“You have got a very fine instrument indeed.”
If I _could_ add anything more in its praise it would be this, that
I am really going to build a _new observatory_ for it—my present one
is too small and cramped.
Sincerely yours,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
(_Another Letter from the same Gentleman._)
ST. NICHOLAS’ RECTORY, NEAR CARDIFF,
_August 28th, 1880_.
DEAR Mr. CALVER,—The 12 inch surpasses all my expectations. It has
the perfection in figure of the incomparable 10 inch of yours, which
was its immediate predecessor, and, in grasp of light, the
difference in favour of the 12 inch over the 10 inch, a most
brilliant mirror, is simply astounding.
You may equal the 12 inch—I am sure you will, whenever you make
one—but you will not easily beat it. Mr. SADLER, the well-known and
most accurate observer, has himself worked with it, and writes of it
to me as follows:—“The 12 in. is considerably superior in light
grasping power to H2’s 20 ft. reflector, and the figure is a much
finer one.”
Your skill and kindness has placed me in the front rank among
amateur observers, as far as the possession of optical means is
concerned.
I was afraid that the German Stand would not prove so convenient as
the “Berthon Equestrian Stand,” but I find it is and far more so.
The German Stand is, for anything above 6 in., decidedly more solid
and dependable, and far simpler in any case. The merit of the
“Berthon Equestrian” form is that it requires a smaller observatory.
Very sincerely yours,
(_Signed_.)
* * * * *
_From_ W. S. FRANKS, Esq., F.R.A.S.
LEICESTER,
_August 19th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—As the 11-1/4 in. speculum has now been in constant use
for two years, I may be allowed to express my opinion, with all due
deliberation, as to its performance. It has been tried upon almost
every conceivable object during that period with uniformly good
results. Having also a 5 in. achromatic of the finest quality, I
have been enabled to make a great number of comparisons between the
two instruments, mounted side by side: and for fine definition,
smallness of star discs, and freedom from chromatism, the reflector
always came out victorious. Upon first mag. stars, nothing could
surpass the purity of the image in the reflector; but on immediately
turning to the achromatic, the outstanding violet rays were
painfully obtrusive. For red stars, which are generally small, the
reflector seems especially adapted. I used to be rather sceptical
about the tints of red stars, but must confess, after seeing the
magnificent tints of scarlet and crimson which are shown by a large
aperture, that my doubts have vanished. Definition upon the planets,
in good air, is simply perfect. The detail on Jupiter and Saturn
reminds one of an exquisite engraving. The far distant Neptune is
perfectly defined as a tiny disc, and his moon steadily visible with
the 11-1/4 in. The faculæ and other Solar detail are brought out
with wonderful distinctness. As for the Moon, the crispness of
definition, absence of colour, and immense number of minute objects
shown by the reflector, leave nothing to be desired. The gorgeous
views of clusters and nebulæ: the brilliantly crowded fields in the
galaxy: and the endless variety of star colours and groups are
almost beyond description, and must be seen to be appreciated. I
could fill pages about objects seen with the 11-1/4 in. mirror, but
will not occupy more space, save to thank you for having placed such
perfect instruments within the reach of amateurs.
Yours faithfully,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ W. S. FRANKS, Esq., F.R.A.S.
LEICESTER,
_September, 1878_.
MY DEAR SIR,—Mr. BURNHAM is undoubtedly “facile princeps,” as an
observer of double stars. Few men could have discovered such
difficult objects as he has done with a 6″ O.G. Perhaps, it ought to
be conceded that the usual formula for separating power, requires
modification in his case, as Pogson’s formula for “minima visible”
did with Mr. J. W. WARD, of Belfast. Apropos of this topic: do you
recollect Mr. WARD’S discovery of several additional comites to Pxx
452 Cygni? One of them Mr. BURNHAM only succeeded in seeing with the
greatest difficulty with the 6″ O.G. when the large star was hidden
by a bar. I can see this easily enough with the 11-1/4 in. mirror,
in presence of the brighter star.
When you have any intending customers halting between two opinions,
or in any way dubious about reflectors—if you will refer them to me,
I shall have great pleasure in giving my testimony. Reflectors have
been very badly used, and in justice to them I shall not hesitate to
express my honest conviction whenever it is asked.
Yours sincerely,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ PHILIP VALLANCE, Esq.
COBB COURT,
_August 24th, 1880_.
DEAR Mr. CALVER,—I write to thank you for the very excellent 12 in.
mirror you have worked for me. You know that I have excellent
opportunities of testing it by those of With, Bird, Grubb, Murrell,
and others; and also for definition by a capital 6 in. refractor—and
I can truly say it is surpassed by none, and equalled by few: it is
quite my favourite instrument, and has been a source of much
enjoyment ever since I have had it, and again I thank you for
working me such a treasure.
I am, dear Mr. Calver,
Yours very truly,
(_Signed_.)
* * * * *
_From_ THE REV. N. S. GODFREY, F.R.A.S.
ST. BARTHOLOMEW’S VICARAGE, SOUTHSEA,
_August 23rd, 1879_.
MY DEAR Mr. CALVER,—The 12 inch mirror which you worked and mounted
for me gives me perfect satisfaction. I think I have had sufficient
experience with telescopes to justify the expression of a confident
opinion, as at one time or other I think I have had 13 achromatic
telescopes by Tulley, Dollond, Simms, Jones, Cooke, and Murrell, of
apertures varying from 2-1/4 to 7 inches, besides 5 graduated
instruments. The one I had before yours was an 8-1/8 With-Browning,
which With himself considered of as fine a figure as he could work,
and it certainly was a beautiful mirror. Your 12 inch is quite as
perfect in its definition. I have soon on particularly fine evenings
Castor as two discs, without wing or ray. I have separated with ease
ω Leonis, μ^2 Boötis, η Coronæ, γ^2 Andromedæ, and many others of
that class. The planets Jupiter and Saturn on fine nights are
magnificent. I could go into more detail, but I think the facts I
have mentioned are sufficient to convey an idea of the performance
of the mirror; and I am particular in expressing my opinion thus
strongly, because great names, with no experience of reflectors, are
committed to their condemnation. I am certain that under favourable
circumstances they are _quite_ equal in their performances to
refractors. I know my 8-1/8 With was in every way equal to my 7 inch
Troughton and Simms, and in light superior, when newly silvered. And
when the cost is taken into consideration, Cooke’s price of a 10
inch O.G. being £390, without mounting, and your price for a 10 inch
mirror being only £25, I can only express my astonishment that there
can exist any doubt in the scientific mind upon the subject.
May I say that I shall be pleased to answer any questions that any
of your intending purchasers may wish to ask. I cannot speak too
highly of your mirror. I may add that through the courtesy of its
possessor, A. A. COMMON, Esq., I saw Jupiter magnificently last year
in the 37″ mirror you worked for him.
I am, my dear Mr. Calver,
Very truly yours,
(_Signed_.)
* * * * *
_From_ THE REV. CANON ST. VINCENT BEECHEY, F.B.A.S., &c.
HILGAY RECTORY, DOWNHAM, NORFOLK,
_June 22nd, 1880_.
MY DEAR CALVER,—I really do not know how to thank you enough for all
the pleasure you have given me, and for the excellence of the work
you have done for me. I like it more and more! It is really as near
perfection as I could ever hope for. Even at my old age of nearly
eighty, I divide 1 second stars like two dots, and I used a power of
700 on my 8 foot. What mirror but of great excellence would bear
that power, and give you two _dots_! I would not part with it for
anything. When I have been to Mr. Bruce he is coming to me, and we
will try your 12″ against my 10″. He will have light, a great thing
for me, but I do think he _cannot_ have _better_ definition. I hope
nothing will prevent his getting the 12″ in time for us to adjust
and try it. My telescope, now complete, is a gem, and has given me
more pleasure than any other scientific thing.
Ever most sincerely yours,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ THE REV. J. GWYNNE HUGHES, F.M.S., &c.
MALDON,
_August 30th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—All my friends are greatly pleased with the 10 in.
reflector you have made me—with its general appearance and superior
workmanship.
The wheel at the foot adds very much to its portability. Tho form of
its stand is the best I have seen, giving a complete sweep without
any fresh adjustment. The cell bearing the reflector drops into its
place without any difficulty, even in the dark. The trials I have
made of the instrument have revealed a clearness and sharpness of
definition far superior to anything of the kind I had seen before.
I am indebted to you for a source of boundless scientific interest
at very moderate expense. With best wishes,
I remain, dear Sir,
Yours sincerely,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ WALTER GOODACRE, Esq.
SEVEN SISTERS ROAD,
_May, 1879_.
DEAR SIR,—Respecting the 5-1/4 in., I am very much pleased with it;
the definition is very good.
As a proof of the excellence of the mirror, I may mention that I
have on several occasions seen the small crater on the floor of
Helicon, given by WEBB as a test for a 9 in. mirror.
Yours truly,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
(_Another Letter from the same Gentleman._)
* * * * *
_From_ REV. N. S. GODFREY, F.R.A.S.
_October 4th, 1880_.
DEAR SIR,—I have been able to get to use my telescope again, and
send you some of my seeings.
_June 17th._—α Herculis. Still night, 10 p.m., light haze. Discs
beautifully small. Occasionally without any interference ring.
_July 18th._—ζ Herculis. Beautifully seen, power 496, Cooke.
_August 16th._—Well seen. 6.15 p.m., daylight.
_August 26th._—σ Cygni. Misty. Adjustment beautiful. Small star well
seen. ψ Cassiopeæ. Double blue star well divided.
_August 27th._—ζ Herculis. Both stars occasionally without ray or
ring. Two brilliant dots. Colour of companion, pale lilac. Full
aperture. Power 207, Cooke. 6 p.m.
_August 30th._—Dumb bell nebula. Well seen. Not at all regular in
outline, as given by H. Several glimpse stars.
_September 24th._—ζ Herculis. Very fine definition. The difficulty
with this star is clearly atmospheric. I saw it well with 8 in.
aperture, power 207: but the interference ring became thicker and
continuous all round: probably owing to the larger size of my
diagonal prism, nearly 2-1/2 in.
The planets are now again simply magnificent. All the usual details
I see splendidly with full aperture of 12 in., and as sharp as if
cut out with a penknife. The great red spot is a wonderful
phenomenon. What is it?
The great nebula in Andromeda, seen through your fine nebula power
is a mysterious sight. You seem to be looking at something which
eludes your vision (except the nucleus); you see it, and yet,
ghost-like, you see through it. I long for the great nebula in
Orion. I did not see it last year on account of illness.
Believe me,
My dear Mr. Calver,
Very truly yours,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ T. HILDERSLEY, Esq.
33, BERWICK STREET, W.,
_September 9th, 1880_.
DEAR SIR,—I am very pleased to be able to tell you that I have got
the 8-1/2 in. mirror into very fair adjustment—only a slight flare
on one side, which I could correct if clouds had not come up, and I
have not had a chance since, as my time is very limited.
As it was, comes to Wega came out fine; also debilissima, ε Boötis,
μ^2 Boötis, was well seen. Stops made little improvement.
Nebula in Andromeda very fine, both large and small. Clusters in
Hercules well resolved, and Jupiter and Saturn, though low down,
were grand; all is clear with any power or aperture.
Yours truly,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ REV. E. A. FISHBOURNE, M.A.
MINOR CANONRIES, LLANDAFF,
_October 4th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—I send you my cheque, which I do with the greatest
pleasure. I am delighted with, the telescope and with its
capabilities.
Faithfully yours,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ WALTER GOODACRE, Esq.
LONDON, N.,
_September 6th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—The 8-1/2 in. mirror which you supplied me with during
the early part of the year, I have recently mounted as a simple
equatorial. And although I have had but few opportunities at present
of using the same, they have been sufficiently numerous to prove,
beyond doubt, the great excellence of the mirror.
On the evening of the 3rd September, I had some beautiful views of
Jupiter and Saturn. In the former the deep coppery hue of the
equatorial belts, and of the large spot, at present visible on his
southern hemisphere, were strikingly conspicuous, as were many
minute details of his surface. In the case of Saturn, the gradations
of light on the rings, and the delicately tinted belts on the planet
itself, also the sharply defined shadow of the planet on the rings
were easily seen.
Its definition of the most minute portions of the moon’s surface,
leaves nothing to be desired, whilst its performance on double stars
is equally satisfactory.
Yours faithfully,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ G. W. ROYSTON PIGOTT, Esq., M.D., F.R.S., F.R.A.S., &c.
EASTBOURNE,
_October 4th, 1880_.
DEAR SIR,—Your figuring of the 8-1/2 in. mirror has given me much
satisfaction. I see ε^1 ε^2 Lyræ, and such stars, with 600, very
sharp and clear.
I have counted six satellites of Saturn, and the equatorial belt is
very distinct.
Last week I happened to observe Jupiter, when a black shadow of a
satellite was beautifully notching the limb, at the same time a
small pearl-like satellite was about to egress from the belts. I
saw, also, six spherical cloudlets on the belts.
Yours faithfully,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
_From_ REV. S. MILLS, M.A.
DROYLSDEN,
_September 4th, 1880_.
DEAR Mr. CALVER,—To-night was an exceptional fine night for the
stars, the like of which I have not had since I got your 6-1/2 in. I
had for a week or so been observing with my home-made 8 in., but
to-night again recurred to _yours_, and its _superiority_ was all
the more _conspicuous_ and _gratifying_. It quite _delighted me
afresh_!
Looking at β Cygni, I picked up two, to me, new stars, which I think
fully completes Mr. SADLER’S tests in this field. I mark the newly
found ones in red. This only shows that one has only patiently to
watch and wait for a suitable observing night to get one out of a
certain aperture it is capable of showing.
The vast superiority of your 6-1/2 in. _has quite put my 8 inch out
of court_!!
Yours faithfully,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
(_From the same Gentleman._)
DROYLSDEN RECTORY, MANCHESTER,
_July 30th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—I can scarcely express to you the pleasure I have had
in the use of your splendid 6-1/2 in. mirror. Both in light grasping
power, and in the separation of close double stars, it has far
surpassed my highest expectations, and quite removed the prejudice I
entertained against reflectors. Though possessing a first-class
4-1/4 in. refractor, equatorially mounted in my observatory, I now
use your mirror in preference, in the more difficult and delicate
observations, and with it am able to master the most severe tests
given for 6-1/2 in. aperture. I would not be without one of your
finely figured mirrors, now that I have tested their merits, for any
consideration.
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
* * * * *
(_From the same Gentleman._)
THE RECTORY, DROYLSDEN,
_October 4th, 1880_.
MY DEAR SIR,—I have given your 8-1/2 in. mirror one night’s trial,
and it has greatly pleased me. Its resolution of the great cluster
in Hercules was truly magnificent, and the clearness with which it
brought out stars very difficult with 6-1/2 in. was highly
gratifying. I hope to turn it to very good account.
Yours faithfully,
(_Signed_.)
Mr. G. CALVER.
[ Illustration: (FIG. 1.) ]
[ Illustration: (FIG. 2.) ]
[ Illustration: (FIG. 3.) ]
Printers: WARREN HALL & LOVITT, 88, Camden Road, London. N.W.
TRANSCRIBER’s NOTE:
The constelation Boötis also appears in the original spelt as Bootis
and Böotis these have all been corrected to Boötis without being
noted below. Also variations in hyphenation remain unchanged.
The following typos are corrected in this e-text and are shown within
the text as
Original Replaced by
Page 4 Many of the speculas Many of the specula
Page 7 on the pitch or the pitch
Page 24 and proceed and proceed.
Page 28 kept is glass kept in glass
Page 31 See p. 27, Fig. 4 See p. 20, Fig. 4
Page 39 (prices for 8-1/2 then 6-1/2) (prices for 6-1/2 then 8-1/2)
(appendix)
Page 14 Rev. W. P. MATTHEWS REV. W. P. MATTHEWS
Page 24 (a 10 in. Alt Azimuth. (a 10 in. Alt Azimuth).
Page 32 Rev. E. A. FISHBOURNE, M.A. REV. E. A. FISHBOURNE, M.A.