precisely what are needed in our programme, and, although you have had no experience, your record at Trinity College is certainly good enough to warrant our using your services.

If you will fill in the enclosed application blank, along with the proper recommendations and endorsements, we can put you to work immediately.

Sincerely, Edward Ballister-ffoulkes, Bart. General of Artillery Ballistics Research Dept.

12 November 1666 Cambridge

Mr. Isaac Newton, A.B. Woolsthorpe

My dear Isaac,

I am sorry to hear of your decision to remain at home for a while longer instead of returning to the College, but if you feel that your health is delicate, by all means rest until you are in better spirits.

I think, however, that you should attempt to return as soon as possible; you have a great deal of work ahead of you, my boy. Mathematicians—like Rome—are not built in a day—nor in four years.

If, however, you would like to do a part of your studies by post, I see no objection to it, under the circumstances, although, of course, it will be necessary to spend a part of your time in residence here, and the final examinations will have to be taken here.

Later on, when you are feeling better, I will send an outline of some work I intend to do on conic sections; I think it would be of great benefit to you to work with me on this. I have always had confidence in your ability. You are young yet, but, given time and plenty of study, you should make a place for yourself in the world of mathematics.

I think that the work I have in mind for you should prove stimulating.

Most sincerely, Isaac Barrow, Ph.D.

16 November 1666 London

Dear Mr. Newton:

It would most certainly be quite convenient for you to do your work there at Woolsthorpe.

An explanation of the work we are trying to do and some of the problems we are up against will be despatched to you as soon as possible.

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