Received Smith's letter of 18 [June 1797]; thanks for his promise of help in naming specimens in the conchology cabinet he is prerparing as a gift, as he wishes to make it scientific.

Disagrees with Smith on proposed changes to Linnean Society regulations, particularly letting the places of Honorary Members fall vacant or to fill by ballot, which "entirely does away the Honor intended"; argues that there is no need to change the rules and regulations, considering the rapid growth of the Society over the last 9 years and the unrivalled harmony it has enjoyed, and to risk the introduction of "distrust & anarchy"; determined to oppose [William] Pilkington's [(1758-1848)] proposed amendment; argues in favour of retaining Honorary Members; [Samuel] Goodenough's own motion to set the position in law.