Has previously written to Smith on an animal of the 'Physophora' genus. Staying at home of [Thomas] Jefferson [3rd President of USA] with Jefferson's son-in-law, [Thomas Mann] Randolph [Jr.], an "excellent naturalist". Has discovered at least two orchids not described in books following Smith's request to look into 'Orchidaceae', many species in America. Found two species of 'Helleborine' established but not described by [Christiaan Hendrik] Persoon, two new 'Cacalia' and a new 'Talinum'. Believes America will be rich in 'Cryptogramia'; 'Lichen Sepincola' is abundant on 'Pinus taeda'; also rich in 'Carex'. Leaving shortly to explore Louisiana as a "first Reaper" and will winter at Fort St Louis on the Mississippi with Captain Lewis, who was sent by President Jefferson to explore the Missouri and has discovered 20 new species of animal. Randolph cultivating 'Holcus sorghum', 'Sorghum vulgare' of Persoon, and 'Sesamum indicum' for oil.

Refrained from writing to Smith assuming he would hear his news through Liverpool Botanic Garden. Sending 25 specimens of plants to [William] Roscoe. Plans to travel another 1100 miles up the [Missouri], according to General Clark it is "peculiarly interesting". Recommends Smith examine a specimen of a pouched rat sent to Lord Hawley, possibly 'Mus bursorius', comments on the construction of the mouth, which resembles 'Arctomys'. Has found a 'Talpa' not dissimilar to 'Talpa europaea', and many undescribed 'Coluber' and a 'Crotatus'. His most interesting specimen is the 'Dioeica octandria' shrub which has a "much esteemed berry". Hopes to meet Smith on his return to England. In the most recent 200 miles of his journey has found more British 'Carices' than he has ever seen before in America and has now seen c 26 species of 'Carex'.

No summary available.