Confirms he will not be attending Linnean Society anniversary meeting. [Robert] Stone [(c 1751-1829), botanist] severely ill with gout in his stomach but now recovered; he had thought of quitting the Linnean Society but now does not. Recommends [David Elisha] Davy of Yoxford, [Suffolk], who is to visit London, "a very diligent young botanist" who intends to join the Linnean Society once he knows more of the science.

Sends specimens of 'Hirudo nigra', observes their different colour from some collected a few months ago. Anxious that his relative lack of knowledge could compromise his paper. Also sends a species of 'Cicada' that swims on its back, like 'Notonecta', would like to write his next paper for "Linnean Transactions" on it if [Thomas] Marsham has not already seen it before receiving it from Kirby.