But I took most pleasure in astronomy.
"The perusal of Sir John Herschel's 'Outlines of Astronomy,' and of his 'Treatise on the Telescope,' set my mind on fire.

I conceived the idea of making a telescope of my own, for I could not buy one.

While reading the Mechanics' Magazine I observed the accounts of men who made telescopes.

Why should not I do the same?
Of course it was a matter of great difficulty to one who knew comparatively little of the use of tools.

But I had a willing mind and willing hands.