Complains that letters sent to him at the Linnean Society are not forwarded quickly enough. Sends bill of lading for "most valuable present" for Linnean Society sent from America. Asks if Macleay received box of roots of Sicilian 'Orchideae' from [William] Swainson in Palermo, [Sicily], which he had arranged to be sent to Mr Anderson at Chelsea. Asks if [John Russell, 6th] Duke of Bedford and [Francis] Buchanan have been elected FLS yet.

Received Swainson's letter of 3 December; believes he knows his father. Agrees Baron [Antonino] Bivona [Bernardi] ought to be FMLS, but they are restricted from adding any more till the number is below 50; will consider moving for a relaxation of this law for the Baron.

Believes he has received the packet of dried plants Swainson mentions, will write to Bivona as soon he can examine the specimens, "but such examinations take much time, & I am often overburthened with them". Entrusted care of box of Orchideae roots sent by Swainson to William Anderson, new Curator of the Chelsea garden, "one of the best botanical gardeners of my acquaintance".