Has arrived safely but owing to the confusion of the colony they do not have anywhere to dry plants or write observations, so prevented from collecting, which is disappointing. Has sent some bulbs and seeds, including 'Hamanthus mulliflorus' and 'Amaryllis ornata'. Happy to have [François] Borone as his travel companion. Requests to be sent [Joseph] Ga[e]rtner's "de Seminibus", Schreber's "Genera Plantarum", and the "Vegetable Kingdom" of Gmelin's System. If not for the efforts of John Clarkson [abolitionist and 1st Governor of Free Town] he would have tired of Sierra Leone. Comments on the effort Clarkson will have to make to achieve his "laudable intentions". Cannot send [Thomas] Marsham any insects for the same reasons he has not been able to collect plants.

Conditions for collecting still unfavourable and is doubtful of sending any dried plants this year. Has sent two large tubs of living plants, including many which are new or rare in Europe. [François] Borone and himself have both recovered from fevers. Unhappy to have not received any letters from their friends in London and elsewhere.

A house is being erected for use of Afzelius and [François] Borone, Smith should shortly expect something to be sent with every vessel sailing from Free Town. Condemnation of Gmelin and his knowledge of natural history.

Thanks for books. Sending a box of living plants and seeds. Praises Governor [John] Clarkson, who is returning to England, for his kindness to himself and [François] Borone in finding them "proper habitation". Will send dry plants, fruits, seeds and insects on the next sailing vessel for Smith and other friends.