The failure of the Ship protectors a source of great vexation to Davy.--His Letters to Mr. Poole.--He becomes unwell.--He publishes his Discourses before the Royal Society.--Critical Remarks--and Quotations.--He goes abroad in search of health.--His Letter to Mr. Poole from Ravenna.--He resigns the Presidency of the Royal Society.--Mr. Gilbert elected _pro tempore_.--Davy returns to England, and visits his friend Mr. Poole.--Salmonia, or Days of Fly-fishing.--An Analysis of the Work, with various extracts to illustrate its character.
The friends of Sir Humphry Davy saw with extreme regret that the failure of his plan for protecting copper sheathing had produced in his mind a degree of disappointment and chagrin wholly inconsistent with the merits of the question; that while he became insensible to the voice of praise, every nerve was jarred by the slightest note of disapprobation. I apprehend, however, that the change of character which many ascribed to the mortification of wounded pride, ought in some measure to be referred to a declining state of bodily power, which had brought with it its usual infirmities of petulance and despondency. The letters I shall here introduce may perhaps be considered as indicating that instinctive desire for quiet and retirement which frequently marks a declining state of health, and they will be followed by others of a less equivocal character.
It is very long since I have heard from you, Mr. A----, whom you introduced to me, has sometimes given me news of you, and I have always heard of your health and well-being with pleasure.
My immediate motive for writing to you now is somewhat, though not entirely selfish. You know 1 have always admired your neighbourhood, and I have lately seen a place advertised there, called, I think,----, not far from Quantock, and combining, as far as advertisement can be trusted, scenery, fishing, shooting, interest for money, &c.
If it is not sold, pray give me a little idea of it; I have long been looking out for a purchase,--perhaps this may suit me. After all, it may be sold; if so, no harm is done.
I go on labouring for utility, perhaps more than for glory; caring something for the judgment of my contemporaries, but more for that of posterity; and confiding with boldness in the solid judgment of Time.