Has first attack of gout in February. Proposes use of lightning rods to protect houses in March 2 letter to Collinson. July 29, devises experiment involving sentry-box with pointed rod on its roof, to be erected on hilltop or in church steeple, with rod attached to Leyden jar which would collect the electrical charge, and thus prove lightning to be a form of electricity. Revises lightning rod proposal to include provision for grounding. Severely shocked, December 23, while electrocuting a turkey.