175 
Mr. M——., as you say, I find very anxious about 
the success of the new society. 
I am persuaded from that open, honest simplicity 
that prevails in every part of your conduct, that 
you have no views but what are disinterested ; but 
that may not be the case with every one that joins 
you. I have been united in societies of various 
kinds, and have been heartily vexed and dissatisfied. 
Omit it a few years: at the end of the first weigh 
every objection, and demur a little, and I think 
that afterwards the spirit of procrastination will in- 
crease; yet I would not have the thought wholly 
laid aside. We may enjoy every satisfaction from 
each other’s information and company, as we might 
have done in society, and this by a breakfast to our 
select friends, once a quarter, either by you, or al- 
ternately as agreed. By this will be discoverable 
the probable success of such a society; and if it 
ever matures, let it come forth. Even the idea of 
associating should be foreign to our first purposes, 
and only meet as select friends. Under this view 
we raise no envious spirit against us from the pre- 
sent existing society; and prevent in future that 
acrimony which, I am sorry to say, exists too much 
amongst ingenious people. In short, I am horri- 
bly afraid of a wasp’s nest. St. Paul’s advice to Ti- 
mothy was a good one, even in common life : “ Lay 
hands suddenly on no man.” 
If, amidst the various avocations that surround 
you, one hour can be spared, employ it by scrib- 
bling a few lines to, dear Sir, 
Your very sincere friend, 
W. JONES. 
