Has applied for position of Keeper of Natural History at British Museum vacant by death of [George] Shaw; solicits Smith's support. [William George] Maton has presented his application to Sir Joseph Banks. Expects to finish his history of Hampshire within the next year and to then devote himself to natural history. Requests Smith to present his application to the Bishop of Winchester [Brownlow North].

Whilst investigating respiratory organs of different animals he discovered that the circulation of the butterfly is performed by a heart, and has since observed it in other insects, particularly the garden snail.

Found species of 'Trifolium' near here, hopes it is 'Trifolium squarrosum' Willdenow [Smith has annotated "right HL"]; comparison with Spanish specimen. Also found new 'Verrucaria' and 'Lecidea'; observations.

[Spec 12 written in pencil on verso of first folio]

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Smith could have contacted him about his candidacy without [Thomas William] Coke's insistence. Unable to offer much assistance as he removed himself from Trinity College twenty-eight years ago; canvassed a Mr Davies for Smith but received an evasive answer.