To J. C. Dale 17 December 1819

My dear Dale

You need not be allarmed [sic] about coming all the way from Dorsetshire to be admitted a member of the Cambridge Philosophical society. This is a ceremony we dispensed with. Our first meeting was held last Monday when a paper was read by Dr Clarke upon the utility &c of the institution stating the objects of it to resemble those of the Royal society. I wd. advise you if convenient to pay in 10 Guineas at once wch. will make you a member for life, especially as it is so inconvenient at the distance you reside from Cambridge to pay an annual Guinea. However which ever you intend to do you had better (I think) pay it to your banker in town for Mr Bridge's acct. according to the directions given in the paper I sent you. I was glad to hear of your acquisitions in entomology, I have not much attended to it lately not having had time, but shall be very happy to resume my acquaintance with the study at a more favourable opportunity. I saw Leach yesterday who is arranging his shelves, & I met our old acquaintance, Bulwer of Jesus, there, who collects both Insects & shells with great vigour, I do not return to Cambridge before next term.

I remain

Yrs most truly

J. S. Henslow