Struggling to grow the seeds sent by Smith due to their arrival late in the season. [William] Thomson [(c 1760-1806), mineralogist and physician] is to visit him and although pleased is disturbed by the reason for his journey [Thomson was disgraced in 1790 following imputations from a previous experiment on a man and accusations of "improper behaviour" with a servant boy]. Involved in sourcing the Republic's army with clothing and other items. Introduces Dr Onofrio Scasto who is carrying the letter and travelling with Mr Malis. Requests seeds, especially of 'Passiflora', 'Mimosa', 'Robinia', 'Aeschinomene', 'Cassia', and 'Lantana', amongst others. Attempting to grow 'Phaseolus caracalla' again after it died in cold weather.

Concedes Smith's claim that he is a lazy correspondent but has been away travelling in Italy. Saw [William] Thomson[(c 1760-1806), mineralogist and physician] in Florence, has decided to settle in Naples after discussion with Sir William Hamilton [(1731-1803) diplomat]. His garden is growing well, offers to send specimens. Complains that plants he received from the Songo firm in London have not flourished possibly due to lack of attention in transit. Recommends Smith contact the Loddigas nurseries for plants that cannot be obtained through friends. Requests seeds of 'Mimosa', 'Cassis', and 'Pinus juniperus', amongst others. Asks if [William] Aiton's "Hortus Kewensis" is worth purchasing to assist in laying out his greenhouse and to send it via Mr Aubert if so. Smith's books have been sent to Turin, Italy, to the required address.

Encloses catalogue of plants [from his botanical garden]. Requests seeds of 'Mimosa', 'Cassia', 'Aeschinomene', 'Poinciana pinus', 'Laurus' and 'Juniperus', excluding species in his catalogue. His brother J. Luc has received the plants that Smith sent. Advises Smith to send plants in a box rather than an open basket in future.