Smith's unpleasant journey to Sheffield, does not regret making the journey with him. Warns Smith against placing too much trust in the acquaintance he made in the coach, and not to overload himself with new acquaintances. His return journey. Fanny, [Smith's sister], unwell on his return. News of mutual friends including [John] Pitchford, and [James] Crowe.

Success of his letters of recommendation with Mr Martineau, Dr Nevil, Dr Byam, Mr Gloag, Mr Torry, Mr Martin Lindsay, Miss Scott, Mrs Austin, and Dr Gardiner. Expects to derive most "comfort & advantage" from Dr [John] Hope; his character; recommended above all things that he master Latin; Hope's recommendations for what course to attend. Has been to the infirmary once, his "apprehensions & disgust" much less than expected. His fellow lodgers are Mr Lubbock and [John Henry] Engelhart. Met Lord Monboddo.

Pleased to hear of Smith's successes in Edinburgh; his hopes for him, certain he will "shun the immoral & profane both from taste & principle". Warns Smith against "gaiety" of Lubbock. Discusses Smith's recommendations and practicalities of his education there. Approves of Smith hiring a Latin tutor; importance of Latin and Greek. Benefits gained from study of nature. Glad Smith has so many ladies in his acquaintance but warns him against becoming distracted from his studies.

Smith's sister, Fanny, had a fever but now recovered and Nanny Cullyer, their last nursemaid, is dying from a putrid fever. Glad Smith met Lord Monboddo, usefulness of knowing such people. Reminds Smith not to press his stomach against the table when writing. News of [Thomas] Woodward, and criticisms of Mrs Patterson. Effects of the Dutch War on trade.

Enjoyment of his life and studies in Edinburgh. Reassures his father that there is no danger of botany engrossing his attention too much. His enjoyment of anatomy, has undertaken the Materia Medica, will attend on an apothecary's shop in the summer. Dr [John] Hope's kind attentions. Dined with Mr Gloag, account of his family and status. Dined with Dr Hutton and Dr Black. Excesses of his fellow lodgers, [John Henry] Engelhart and Mr Lubbock. Requests black silk stockings.

Confident success of Smith's studies, acquaintances, and friendship with Dr [John] Hope will prevent him from being led astray by "bounders" or the "blandishments of beauty". In terms of medicine he is a "Brownist" and believes in keeping the body "braced" by cold immersions to keep it in health. Warns Smith to be wary of "strict friendships". News of Smith's brothers Richard and Francis. Decided not to re-let the College Farm at end of present lease on account of sadness of Smith being absent from the place he used to cultivate and botanise. Norwich news, including Mrs Patterson. Smith's sister, Esther, has been violently ill with a fever but now slowly recovering. Politics: news of election for sheriff, despair at state of the country. Admires the Scottish for their "zeal for the Protestant Religion" but thinks two sermons at a time "rather too much".