solve the
problems. Sometimes I find them difficult, but my old obstinacy remains,
for if I do not succeed to-day, I attack them again on the morrow. I
also enjoy reading about all the new discoveries and theories in the
scientific world, and on all branches of science.

Sir Roderick Murchison has passed away, honoured by all, and of undying
fame; and my amiable friend, almost my contemporary, Professor Sedgwick,
has been obliged to resign his chair of geology at Cambridge, from age,
which he had filled with honour during a long life.

[The following letter from her valued friend Professor Sedgwick, in
1869, is the last my mother received from him:--]

FROM PROFESSOR SEDGWICK TO MRS. SOMERVILLE.

CAMBRIDGE, _April 21st, 1869_.

MY DEAR MRS. SOMERVILLE,

I heard, when I was in London, that you were still in good bodily
health, and in full fruition of your great intellectual strength,
while breathing the sweet air of Naples. I had been a close prisoner
to my college rooms through the past winter and spring; but I broke
from my prison-house at the beginning of this month, that I might
consult my oculist, and meet my niece on her way to Italy.... My
niece has for many years (ever since 1840) been my loving companion
during my annual turn of residence as canon of Norwich; and she is,
and from her childhood has, been to me as a dear daughter. I know
you will forgive me for my anxiety to hear from a living witness
that you are well and happy in the closing days of your honoured
life; and for my longing desire that my beloved daughter (for such I
ever regard her) should speak to you face to face, and see (for
however short an interview) the Mrs. Somerville, of whom I have so
often talked with her in terms of honest admiration and deep regard.
The time for the Italian tour is, alas! far too short. But it will
be a great gain to each of the party to be allowed, even for a short
time, to gaze upon the earthly paradise that is round about you, and
to cast one look over its natural wonders and historic monuments....
Since you were here, my dear and honoured guest, Cambridge is
greatly changed. I am left here like a vessel on its beam ends, to
mark the distance to which the current has been drifting during a
good many bygone years. I have outlived nearly all my early
friends. Whewell, Master of Trinity, was the la