THE ROYAL SOCIETY 77 



papers did not spare them ; and the publicity which 

 attached to their unfortunate proceedings doubtless 

 helped to irritate some of the more earnest members of 

 the Society. 



Dr. Blagden to Sir Joseph Banks. 



" (February n, 1784.) 



" DEAR SIR, Gossett goes against you for his con- 

 nexion with Maty. Dr. Warren brings down Gunning 

 and all the friends he can muster for you. There is a 

 paper in the Public Advertiser to-day in which Button's 

 business is much misstated. You should get it. Horsley 

 seems to take advantage of your staying in the Chair to 

 represent the indecency of your sitting there to receive 

 incense ; but still it is best. They say that many things 

 will be brought out from quarters entirely unsuspected 

 by you. Dr. Brocklesby is mentioned as one of those who, 

 though they attended the meeting, do not think themselves 

 engaged to vote for you, but I know not on what founda- 

 tion. Brand Hollis meant yesterday to go against 

 you. Warren says that there will be a thundering 

 majority on your side, Jodrell that the majority is 

 doubtful. The latter is growing violent against you, 

 and probably will speak." 



At the ordinary meeting, February 12, a resolution was 

 moved that Dr. Hutton be requested to resume office. 

 This was negatived by a majority of thirty-eight. On the 

 next meeting, the opposing parties came to close quarters. 

 It was moved, " that it would be highly indecent and 

 improper if the President of this Society should hereafter, 

 either in the selection of candidates or upon any other 

 occasion, endeavour to avail himself of his situation to 

 influence the vote of any officer of the Society." This 

 was negatived by one hundred and fifteen against twenty- 

 seven. In disregard of this ominous result, a second 

 motion was persisted in : " that although it does not 



