The intelligence Smith sent him is not surprising and wonders at inclination which induced Smith to apply to him, but does not blame Smith for well meant endeavours [subject unclear].

Delighted to hear of Lady Cullum's successful operation. Sending seeds from Paris to [Nathaniel Shirley] Hodson [(fl 1800s-1830s), founder of Bury botanic garden] but will not subscribe to the garden. Discusses the confusion between 'Atropa belladonna' and 'Datura' in second edition of [John] Ray's "Synopsis" caused by repetition of an error by Dillenius. Confirms he gathered 'Dianthus virgineus' on Mount Cenis exactly like in "Botanical Magazine" t.1740. Unable to accept Cullum's invitation to Bury. Last saw Sir Joseph Banks a month before he died and he was "quite easy about the event, which he knew could not be far distant". Received letter from Sir Thomas Gage from Castel a Mare, near Naples, they are in "perfect safety, though living in the midst of a revolution". Mrs [Catherine] Lambert not better since moving into the country.