Formal notice requesting Smith's attendance at Linnean Society meeting on 11 May [1802] to consider the directives in the Society's recently granted charter.

[Additional letter on second folio, also by Macleay]: After meeting with [Thomas] Marsham and [Jonas] Dryander they found that no summonses could be issued for the Dinner until the members of the Society be reelected, and as Smith's presence for such is not essential they made it the earliest day possible; his summonses was only to comply with a direction in the charter. Hopes Smith will be well enough to attend on 17 May [1802] for settling the bye-laws, and asks that he prepare an address to the Society upon its meeting as a chartered body.

Account of Linnean Society meeting [following granting of charter]: 12 met, only absentees being Smith, Lord Dartmouth [George Legge], and [John] Symmons; all Fellows, Honorary Members, and Associates reelected except those in arrears, and the business of the Foreign Members deferred until meeting next Monday, which he hopes Smith will be able to attend.

Has made a 'gymnostomum' of 'Bryum alpinum'. Surprised to hear that Smith had not received the true 'Bryum verticillatum' from himself as he recalls after [James] Dickson had given the public "a very different one for that species" he had sent specimens to Smith, [Samuel] Goodenough and Dickson. Sends several more specimens of 'Bryum'.

Difficulties of correspeondence in the war; greetings and news; desiderata.

Has visited [John Russell, 6th] Duke of Bedford's plantation of 'Salix russelliana' but only successful in obtaining female catkins. The late and incumbent Dukes of Bedford and their interest in the species. Thanks for drawings of 'Mentha odorata' and 'Tetraphis pellucida'. Sends specimen of a 'Primula', referred to as the black Cowslip in Worcestershire; requests Smith's opinion.

'Salix russelliana', in the opinion of Abbot and [John Russell, 6th] Duke of Bedford, is not a native of Bedfordshire. Notes on its habitat and "quickness of growth", is known to agriculturists as "Leicestershire" or "Dishley willow". Hopes that Smith's health will have improved following his six weeks in Liverpool.