The gardeners dictionary

The dedication acknowledges the significance of the Royal Society of London and Sir Hans Sloane (1660–1753), its president from 1727 to 1741.

The Royal Society was founded in 1660 by King Charles II. One of the oldest learned scientific societies, its establishment inspired the creation of other institutes that encouraged the mutual education, scientific discovery, and social interaction of prestigious scientific figures. The Royal Society was composed of elected members who paid membership fees and endowments. Unlike the Académie royale, it was not state-funded.