Thanks for Smith's memoir on Ferns [published by Turin Academy]. Mortified by Dr [Robert John] Thornton's [(c 1768-1837), physician and writer on botany] rejection by Linnean Society; intends to propose him again, and if unsuccessful again will propose a change to the rules to reflect those of Royal Society. Concerned by "strong tendency" in Soho Square [home of Sir Joseph Banks] "to throw ridicule upon all persons and proceedings, except a certain set".