Smith and [Jonas] Dryander have misunderstood each other; Dryander will not become President of the Linnean Society but will accept fixed vice-presidentship, with some reservations. [William] Pilkington [(1758-1848), architect] cannot guarantee regular attendance to be a reader; suggests retaining [Thomas] Marsham for the present. Although everyone "likes Mr [Aylmer Bourke] Lambert extremely" thinks the competition should not be allowed as Dryander is superior in knowledge [possile campaign for vice-presidentship?]. Presses the necessity of maintaining Marsham's cordiality for the Society's general welfare.

On verso of second folio faint outline drawing of a plant, in pencil.