By a few
simple and conclusive experiments, Faraday proved the explanation
insufficient. It is an epoch in the life of a young man when he
finds himself correcting a person of eminence, and in Faraday's
case, where its effect was to develop a modest self-trust, such an
event could not fail to act profitably.
From time to time between 1818 and 1820 Faraday published scientific
notes and notices of minor weight. At this time he was acquiring,
not producing; working hard for his master and storing and
strengthening his own mind. He assisted Mr. Brande in his lectures,
and so quietly, skilfully, and modestly was his work done, that
Mr. Brande's vocation at the time was pronounced 'lecturing on velvet.'
In 1820 Faraday published a chemical paper 'on two new compounds of
chlorine and carbon, and on a new compound of iodine, carbon,
and hydrogen.' This paper was read before the Royal Society on
December 21, 1820, and it was the first of his that was honoured
with a place in the 'Philosophical Transactions.'
On June 12, 1821, he married, and obtained leave to bring his young
wife into his rooms at the Royal Institution. There for forty-six
years they lived together, occupying the suite of apartments which
had been previously in the successive occupancy of Young, Davy, and
Brande. At the time of her marriage Mrs. Faraday was twenty-one
years of age, he being nearly thirty. Regarding this marriage I will
at present limit myself to quoting an entry written in Faraday's own
hand in his book of diplomas, which caught my eye while in his
company some years ago.
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