Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Anxious for Smith's success in campaign as he believes it would raise "recruits to the study of natural history". Thinks Smith will be successful judging by the conduct of the university in the case of the chemistry professor. Has heard nothing from the vice-chancellor regarding [Arthur] Biggs [(1765-1848)] appointment [as Cambridge Botanic Garden curator], fears he is ineffectual in offering advice to "alma mater".