Reply to Banks letter of 22 February 1805. Agrees with Banks suggestions concerning the introduction to "Flora Graeca", [John] Sibthorp's work will be fully acknowledged with modest reference to Smith and others. In general approves of title but still needs further consideration to convey true nature of the work and its composition. Is now at work on the Prodrumus "Flora Graeca".

Agrees with Banks that a turkey's nest is known as a "rip". Comments on dispute between [William] Forsyth and [Thomas Andrew] Knight over Knight's insinuating pamphlets against Forsyth's paste for regenerating fruit trees. Smith says he can produce sections of Forsyth's trees "which tell their own story", will further enquire into the matter. Disgusted by the "backbiting" of authors and artists and London, and scornful of the effect of London society on minds. Thinks [Samuel] Goodenough will be a dignified and useful bishop. 'Buxbaumia aphylla' has been found at Roslin, [Midlothian], by Mr Maughan.