JDH writes to Thiselton-Dyer regarding Norman Lockyer & Alexander MacMillan, respectively editor & Scottish publisher of NATURE; to which JDH has lent his name. Lockyer has not sent JDH a copy of William Carruthers' letter, JDH considers Carruthers' intellect muddled by a 'fear of extinction'. JDH is going to the funeral of an old friend, Archibald Smith of Jordanhill, in Kensal Green the following day. JDH invites Thiselton-Dyer to dine with him & his cousin Francis 'Frank' Palgrave.

JDH asks William Thiselton-Dyer his opinion on the qualifications of Mr Archer to fill the chair of Botany at Dublin, vacated by Thiselton-Dyer. JDH has heard Archer is being prevented from applying in deference to Dr Percival Wright.

JDH asks William Thiselton-Dyer to consider a post as his private secretary. The letter lays out the main duties, hours and salary for the job.

JDH informs Thiselton-Dyer that his wife, Frances Hooker, is unwell & so JDH will not be coming to work [in the RBG Kew herbarium] for a few days. He asks Thiselton-Dyer to consult Mrs Hooker's letters to determine what needs doing, & to continue work on the FLORA INDICA. If he completes the Dipterocarpeae Thiselton-Dyer should put the Impatiens in order for description. JDH has written to Daniel Oliver [Keeper of the herbarium] to ask him to put miscellaneous dried collections in order by genera. JDH will need to come to work to do the BOTANICAL MAGAZINE, when will depend on his wife's health.