Has been prevented from sailing to Sierra Leone by unfavourable weather but hopes to depart soon. Pleased that Smith proposes to publish a new edition of Hudson's "Flora Anglica". Claims priority in botanical works as discoverer of plants he found first. Values Smith's letters and friendship and asks him to write to him in Sierra Leone.

The voyage from Torbay, Devon, to Sierra Leone. Fears that the collection of "natural productions" taken to England by William Dawes, [outgoing Governor of Sierra Leone], will moulder in Sierra Leone House. Has started collecting. Queries 'Camwood'.

Description of a raid by the French on 28 September 1794; plundered stocks and razed public buildings, houses belonging to white people, and ships. The French left on 10 October 1794, leaving no provisions, but only two people were killed and three or four wounded, and the huts of the settlers were left untouched. Neighbours have provided food but he is devastated by loss of his tools for writing and collecting, and his journal and manuscripts; his losses are between £1500 and £1600. Asks Smith to inform the Marchioness of Rockingham, and to send paper for pasting plants onto.