Suffering from a sharp attack of gout. Proposes three emendations, in Latin, of Smith's note of observation in "Flora Graeca" on 'Nymphaea' and 'Castalia' in order to check [Richard] Salisbury and give a Classical reason. Thinks that if the Spanish think themselves warriors and fight a pitched battle it will put a quick end to their hopes [Napoleon's invasion of Spain in 1808]. The 'Sedum ochroleucum' Smith sent is growing well.

[Note] "Charles Lyell Esq, Lyndhurst, Hants." at foot of second folio.

Hopes Goodenough received package sent via [Charles] Lyell and [James] Sowerby, which included: 'Agrostis arundinacea', 'Carduus polyanthus', new 'Choraphyllum', 'Centaurea intybacea', and 'Urceolaria deamonta'.

Numbered observations on enclosed specimens: 1. 'Carex' like 'C. michellia'; 2. 'Carex' like 'C. flacca'; 3. new 'Carex'; 4. 'Saxifraga' distinct from 'S. hynoides'; 5. new 'Silene' proposed 'S. intermedia'; 6. new 'Silene' proposed 'S. hybrida'; 7. unknown 'Epilobium'; 8. 'Mesea longiseta'; 9. 'Orabus angustifolius'; 10. 'Hieracium' near 'H. alpinum'.

Observations on 'Hieracium ramosum' and 'Epilobium caudifolium'. If he had known what Goodenough said of Sowerby in sufficient time would not have troubled him. Will send 'G. uliginosum' and 'Galium verrocosum' seeds in summer, observation on 'Equisetum'. Asks Goodenough to forward this letter to Dr [James Edward] Smith.

Four plant specimens, including 1, 3 and 8.

Has had a sharp fit of gout in his right hand. Hopes Smith liked his last alterations [probably to Smith's Latin]. Sees that Smith has "pacified [George] Don at once, he appears to be a most valuable correspondent", disusses Don's 'Carex' specimens. Hopes to be in London by 10 January [1809].