Apologises for several misunderstandings: was not aware of Smith's propriety in naming [Jonas] Dryander as vice-president [of Linnean Society]; insists that he has not complained of Smith's move to Norwich to anyone; his hint about [maintaining the cordiality of Thomas] Marsham was not intended as a slight on Smith's regard.

Reassures Smith of the stability of his position as President of the Linnean Society; his term "fixed vice-president" only means that one person will manage everything in Smith's absence, rather than an inefficient division of authority between multiple parties. [Jonas] Dryander's strengths for the position, thinks [Aylmer Bourke] Lambert will "do vastly well under him". Thanks Smith for specimens.