THE ROYAL SOCIETY 83 



" Your literary character, I can assure you, never came 

 into the contemplation of those who voted against you. 

 That is highly respected here, as much as you could wish 

 or expect. As far as I know, your enemies were guided 

 by an antipathy to the doctrines of Mesmer ; which, 

 especially since Dr. Franklin gave his opinion against 

 them, is here very prevalent. And, good Sir, difference 

 of opinion in matters of speculative nature have not the 

 least influence on the respect which literary men owe to 

 each other. I hope that, notwithstanding your disap- 

 pointment, our correspondence will continue. Mine with 

 my friends at Paris did not cease a moment on a similar 

 occasion. 



" The son of Dr. Hope, the late Professor of Botany, 

 will be shortly with you at Paris. He brings you two plates 

 which are intended for the new publication of Hortus 

 Kewensis, coloured in the best style. They are intended 

 as furniture, and pay compliments to the Queen ; 

 who studies Botany intensely, and really reads with 

 perseverance Elementary Books ; also Lady Tankerville, 

 whose Lord has a very fine Botanic Garden, and who 

 knows plants well and paints them exquisitely. Accept 

 these as a mark of my homage. Be assured of the con- 

 tinuation of that respect you have so justly inspired me 

 with, and believe me at all times, 



" Your most faithful," etc. 



Sir Joseph Banks to Count Windischgratz. 



" June 2 (?i784). 



" SIR, The Secretary of the Royal Society has orders 

 to transmit to you the resolution of that Body, in which 

 they decline the honour you intended them of assisting 

 in adjudging the valuable prize you have offered in hopes 

 to diminish that hitherto inceasing curse of civilization : 

 the uncertainty of the Law. 



