Responds to Roscoe's letter [of 27 June 1814]. Certain his campaign [for Cambride botany professorship] will not be affected by his not being a member of the University; lists previous examples. Hopes to be knighted at the next levée and enter Cambridge after the vacation; has ensured the knighthood is to be given him as president of Linnean Society. He could claim an MA degree in two years but "scientifically" values his Leyden degree more, and only wants the professorship on basis that he is best to fill it. Does not think any alterations to Roscoe's paper are needed, and that Lord [Edward Smith-]Stanley's plants should remain for others to judge. Fears [William] Roxburgh is dying at Chelsea.

At request of [Thomas William] Coke invites Roscoe to visit Holkham; he is intending to visit again soon with the Bishop [of Norwich, Henry Bathurst (c 1744-1837)] to continue examining the manuscripts, including historical Italian manuscripts copied at Florence and Venice, and printed books "inestimable in value & number". Papers report Roscoe is in Paris researching, but letter from his sister, Mrs Martin, informs him Roscoe is at his Moss farm and in good health.

Laments death of Dr [Henry] Reeve, a "most heavy loss, public & private, in every point".

Plans for their visit to Holkham, [Norfolk, home of Thomas William Coke]: advises Roscoe to leave for Norwich after 6 November and for them to set out for Holkham on 1 December; further details and questions regarding the visit, including trip to [Andrew] Fountaine at Narford [Hall, Norfolk].