Objects to DeWitt Clinton's candidature to Royal Society on grounds of his never having lived in England, or being as much a man of science as David Hosack, an American who was accepted on his talents. Believes accepting him in his position as President of the New York Society would set a precedent. Enquires after the Peterson family and wonders whether they have been detained at Holkham, [Norfolk, home of Thomas William Coke] "by the charms of the ladies or the talents of the gentlemen".