Was already supporting Smith's candidacy for Cambridge Botany Professorship when he received Coke's letter canvassing for same.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Strongly recommends having the Bishop of Ely [Bowyer Sparke (1759-1836)] canvas for Smith along with every other bishop Smith can get. Also recommends engaging the Queen [Charlotte (1744-1818), wife of George III] to interest the Regent. Believes Smith's cause is a public one, fears the university will "disgrace itself by a contemptible corporation spirit". Smith should write to every great friend of his in London. Believes the election should be put off for some time and Smith should come to Cambridge to canvas in person.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. [Premature] report of [Thomas] Martyn's death caused the college heads to debate mode for electing a successor to the professorship, it was decided that the appointment is responsibility of the Crown and the university cannot interfere with any appointment. Urgently advises Smith to apply to the government and secure their nomination. Confirms that the only election in the university will be for Walker's lectureship at the Botanic Garden. Recommends Smith immediately enter himself at Pembroke or Trinity college.

Professor of Physic will not oppose Smith giving lectures or using the Physic garden, and confident that if Smith's other friend exerts himself another curator of the garden will be gained in Smith's favour [in reference to Smith's campaign for Cambridge botany professorship]. Advises Smith to come in person to look over his interests. Asks if Smith is to make any alterations to "Flora Britannica" as he intends to have his bound.

Arrangements for visit by Smith to Cambridge [to canvas for botany professorship].

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Believes all hope of future success destroyed [with Smith being turned down for professorship], fears it will reflect badly on the university. Asks Smith to recommend Sedgewick to Sir Joseph [Banks] as best candidate for the professorship.

Regrets that he has already promised his votes for the Medical Tancred Studentships for 1821 and 1823 have already been promised, for Mr Woodward and Mr Austin, respectively, and otherwise happy to help any descendants of John Taylor; educational advice. Condolences on Smith's "severe losses" [deaths of Smith's and Pleasance Smith's mothers].

The Lucasian Professorship is vacant and he would be pleased if JH would consider standing for the position.

Declining to become a candidate for the Lucasian Professorship. Has written to Charles Babbage and informed him of the vacancy.

Babbage has been elected Lucasian Professor by a large majority. Is pleased by the unselfish service of JH to scientific research.