Grief at the death of his eldest son. His wife and other children only narrowly escaped [the fire]. His family are now recuperating at Coltishall, [Norfolk], is concerned for the well-being of his wife. Endeavouring to take comfort in botany. Will soon return [William Fitt] Drake's manuscript. Moved by and grateful for Smith's expressions of affection and friendship.

Urges Smith not to publish [George] Don's moss as a new 'Gymnostomum', as it would be "injurious" to Smith's credit. Hopeful his wife's recovery will continue following the death of their son. [Nathaniel] Winch claims that 'Pyrola media' is 'P. minor'; he says Smith has a parcel from [Olof] Swartz. Asks to borrow "Stockholm Transactions" vol 22 for [Erik] Acharius' papers on 'Collemata'. Encloses two or three 'Lichen'. Will send parcel for [James] Sowerby, and will resend all he has published to [James] Dickson if he wishes it, though does not expect any new publication from him.