Discusses the importance of finding the best collecting districts to work in, based on ARW's correspondence with Bates on his time in the Malay Archipelago.
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No summary available.
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Discusses the advantages of collecting in Brazil.
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Returns Birch's pen which he left behind when visiting, so that he may describe his trip to Oxford to ARW.
Offers advice in preparing for employment and on collecting in the tropics.
Advises about Birch's proposed expedition to Brazil, urging him not to go via Jamaica. Also discusses a forthcoming visit from Birch to Broadstone.
More advice about Birch's proposed expeditions. There is a direct shipping line from Glasgow to the West Indies. Favours going via Trinidad.
Advice on the importance of having an agent to handle the sale of specimens. Private buyers and museums are possible clients. Birch should check if bird skeletons are required.
Relates his impressions on returning to Oxford. Professor Poulton was exceedingly kind to him and Birch was able to make many sketches of insects.
Gives advice on dealers and the advantages and disadvantages of dealing with personal dealers such as Druce, Janson, or Trevor compared to institutions such as the British Museum.
Discusses terms of a proposed collecting contract with Mr. Janson, bird collections at Tring, and spiritualism.
No summary available.
Discusses Birch's upcoming voyage and delay going via Jamaica. Mentions Mr. Janson as his agent but also discusses Mr Druce and Miss Lister?/Linden? of the British Museum.
Is relieved that Birch will not be travelling via Jamaica after all. Discusses collecting equipment and Humboldt's travels.
Congratulates Birch on obtaining such a cheap passage and enquires the sailing date. Also mentions South American forests.
Wishes Birch well for the expedition and offers tips regarding dealing with luggage and slinging hammocks.
Discusses how flying fish may appear to fly and offers advice on eating and staying healthy in the tropics.