Smith's candidature for Professorship at Cambridge University. Offers to write to the Vice-Chancellor of Cambridge [William Chafy (1779-1843) vice-chancellor 1813 & 1829] in support of Smith's candidature. Warns of impediments: the lecture room has been given up to Dr Clarke, Professor of Mineralogy, and a lack of interest in the subject meant [Richard] Relhan had difficulties making up a class when he lectured on botany. Although has no intention of retiring concedes the possibility of being incapacitated. Discusses other candidates and the university establishment, explains the three components of his position (University Professorship, Walkerian lectureship attached to Botanic Garden, and Regius Professorship) and suggests a course of action: if Smith secures majority support of the Botanic Garden governors then he would resign the lectureship in Smith's favour, strengthening Smith's position for the Regius Professorship at his death.

Discusses Smith's candidature for Cambridge botany professorship: Sir Joseph [Banks'] illness was a great loss; thinks it curious that the dissenting Smith should be supported by two Bishops [presumably Bishops of Carlisle, Samuel Goodenough, and Ely, Bowyer Sparke (1759-1836); the Bishop of Winchester, Brownlow North, also pledged his support for Smith in August 1813], but concedes "Botany is of no sect"; hopes Smith will be his successor but supposes he would have to conform to the Establishment. Responded immediately to Smith's report of the canvassing but too much of a philsopher to care what happens at Cambridge. Recovered after a confinement of three months caused by typhus.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Confirms that Smith is correct in thinking that the [Walkerian] Lecturer need not be a member of the University, and can be a foreign or a stranger, but warns of "powerful opposition". Has written to the five trustees of the Botanic Garden in support of Smith and offers to write to the masters of Pembroke and Clare Hall Colleges when Smith decides to canvas. Shall be directed by Sir Joseph Banks in his private negotiations with Smith.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Relates Smith's progress, has support of vice-chancellor [William Chafy (1779-1843) vice-chancellor 1813 & 1829] but some trustees [of the Botanic Garden] may be hostile. Details of his salary, £200 per annum.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Informed by vice-chancellor [William Chafy (1779-1843) vice-chancellor 1813 & 1829] that the trustees of the Botanic Garden have declined election of a Reader in Botany, however they would like another curator. Asks to be informed when Smith intends to canvas the university so as to be able to write to the heads of the colleges who would support Smith.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Reiterates importance of having the vice-chancellor's [William Chafy (1779-1843), vice-chancellor 1813 & 1829] support for both the Walkerian lectureship and the whole Professorship. Explains structure of the Senate, lists college heads currently supporting Smith, debates other potential supporters and process of election. [Arthur] Biggs' [(1765-1848)] election as curator of Botanic Garden. Sir Issac Pennington [(1745-1817), physician and chemist] thinks Smith's non-membership of the university or Church of England makes it difficult for him to be granted an appointment; Martyn refutes this, with examples. Death of [George] Shaw.