Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. [Premature] report of [Thomas] Martyn's death caused the college heads to debate mode for electing a successor to the professorship, it was decided that the appointment is responsibility of the Crown and the university cannot interfere with any appointment. Urgently advises Smith to apply to the government and secure their nomination. Confirms that the only election in the university will be for Walker's lectureship at the Botanic Garden. Recommends Smith immediately enter himself at Pembroke or Trinity college.

Was surprised not to hear anything from Cullum during "the great stir" caused by [Thomas] Martyn's [erroneously reported] death; certain it has not damaged his campaign for the Cambridge botany professorship. The Duke of Bedford [John Russell, 6th Duke], Lord Hardwicke [Philip Yorke, 3rd Earl of Hardwicke (1757-1834)], Lord Spencer [George John Spencer, 2nd Earl Spencer], [Viscount] Althorp [John Charles Spencer (1782-1845)], [Marquess of] Tavistock [Francis Russell (1788-1861)], [Lord] John Thynne [(1772-1849)], Dean of Lincoln [George Gordon] and others have all come out in support of Smith. Will canvas at Cambridge for a week with Dr [Martin] Davy, and if the conditions are right and the vice-chancellor approves will ask Martyn to resign the professorship and hold the election. Edward [Hall] Alderson [(1787-1857)] of the Temple has a committee sitting for him. Will or has recently seen [William] Webb and [William] Kirby. Both the Bishop of Bristol [William Mansel] and Lord John Thynne convinced Smith will succeed. Plans to be at Linnean Society on 2 April to admit the Duke of Bedford a FLS.