Laments death of Bishop of Carlisle [Samuel Goodenough]; [John] Latham and himself now the only surviving original members of the Linnean Society. Has not come to London this year as suffering from severe rheumatism in the same eye that suffered from erysipelas twenty-five years ago; asks Cullum to consult Mr Alexander for him. Recently received from Kent the true Swiss 'Ophrys arachnites' figured in [Albrecht von] Haller [(1708-1777), Swiss botanist].

Thanks for Christy's letter, spent the last three weeks in Suffolk. Christy's plant is the real 'Cistus surrejanus', refers him to "English Flora" vol 3, p25, will quote Christy's new observations in corrections and additions of the fourth volume. 'Dianthus barbatus' cannot be supposed wild in Britain.

Consulted Mr Alexander on Smith's behalf for his eye complaint, he prescribes the "narcotic fomentation". Received letter from [John] Latham that he is to produce an index for his ["A general history of birds"]. Laments death of Bishop of Carlisle [Samuel Goodenough].

[Note in Smith's hand detailing his reply of 10 September] enquiring of Mr Alexander if he can apply "camph. sp. of wine as heretofore, with cold water afterwards" to his rheumatic eye.

Thanks Cullum for consulting Mr Alexander for his eye affliction, gives further details of the symptoms. Alexander's prescription has provided no relief, asks Alexander whether he can resort to his usual practice of bathing the bad eyelid and temple with camphorated spirit of wine and cold water, and if he would recommend a blister on the temple or behind the ear.

Mr Alexander has left London for a fortnight so he could not consult him further for Smith's eye complaint.

His son [George William Clinton] who is destined for the medical profession, is enthusiastic in the pursuits of natural history and admires Smith and is sending him some specimens, hints that an acknowledgment would be appreciated. Received Smith's of 26 June. Comments on how much the names of [Thomas William Coke] and Smith are appreciated in his country. [David] Hosack has married "an excellent woman with a splendid fortune".

Small newspaper clipping attached entitled "More Wonders", a humorous piece on natural history curiosities and "gentlemens' corsets".

Sends collection of plants collected in the local vicinity this year, for Smith to return with their proper names affixed. Under Smith's obligation as author to his "Introduction to Botany"; apologises for the request.