162
DOCS.
165-167 DECEMBER
1915
the
theory’s equations
can
be
simplified
a
posteriori
by selecting
the
frame of
reference in
such
a
way
that
the determinant
equation
9uv|
=
-1
is
satisfied
is
of
no epistemological
significance.[8]
The
feasibility
of
checking
the
theory
empirically
is
not
as
dismal
as
you indicate.[9]
The
theory
explains
quanti-
tatively
the
perihelion
motion of
Mercury
discovered
by
Le
Verrier.[10]
The
influ-
ence
of
gravitational potential
on
the
color of
emitted
light
required by
the
theory
has
already
been confirmed
qualitatively
in
astronomy
(Freundlich).[11]
There
are
also
good
prospects
of
testing
the
result
reg[arding]
the
deflection of
light rays by
a
gravitational
field.
In
requesting
that
you
visit
me
when
your
path
leads
you
to
Berlin,
I
rem[ain]
with best
regards, yours very truly,
A. Einstein.
166. To Hans Albert
Einstein
[Berlin,
18
December
1915]
My
dear
Albert,
It’s
so
difficult to
come across
the border
that
many
acquaintances
here
had
to
return
without
being
able to travel to Switzerland.
That’s
why
I cannot
come
to
see
you
now.[1]
At
Easter,
however,
I
definitely
will
visit
you;
then
I’ll
wait
at
the border until
I’m
allowed
across.
With
affectionate
greetings
for
the
holidays,
yours,
Papa.
P.S.
The Christmas
gift
in
the form
of
money
is
being
sent
off
to
you
all
today.
167. To
David Hilbert
[Berlin,]
Monday,
20
December
1915
Highly
esteemed
Colleague,
I
thank
you
for
your
kind communication
regarding my
election
as corr.
member.[1]
On
this
occasion I
feel compelled
to
say something
else
to
you
that
is
of much
more
importance to
me.
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