Encloses letters from Colonel [Thomas] Hardwicke and the Archdeacon of Calcutta [Henry Lloyd Loring (c 1784-1822)] introducing himself to Smith. Offers to send seeds and plants for Smith as well as papers for "Linnean Transactions", possible subjects include: [William] Roxburgh's 'Orchis picta' (his 'Chrysobaphus roxburghii', Rumphius' 'Folium petolatum'); two species of [Robert] Brown's 'Broughtonia' which possibly form a distinct genus, (one is Smith's 'Epidendrum praecox'); and his 'Begonia paniculata'. A parcel of seeds has been dispatched for Smith, containing capsules of Smith's 'Rhododendron arboreum'; a new "arborescent species with snow-white flowers"; and his 'Lida aurita'.

Thanks Smith for turkey. News of Sir Joseph Banks: he "seems rather dull" and whilst he joins in any cheerful conversation he does not initiate them; takes Colchicum autumnale as soon as there is any sign of gout, the English preparation having all the effects of the French Eau Medicinal; spends twelve hours a day in bed and twelve out; Lady Banks "fatter than ever", so that Goodenough fears for her health.

Feels compelled to buy [William] Hone's [(1780-1842), political writer and publisher] account of his trial [for blasphemy]. Criticises Dr [Richard] Watson's [(1737-1816), bishop of Llandaff] book ["Anecdotes of the life of Richard Watson"] in part for showing how "weak and vain a great mind becomes, when it becomes absorbed in self importance". Expecting the first six weeks of Parliament to be stormy as strong measures against ministers are being proposed.

Introduces [Nathaniel] Wallich and proposes him as FLS. His official duties prevent him from pursuing his natural history interests. Compliments to [Aylmer Bourke] Lambert, [William George] Maton, [Alexander] Macleay, [Thomas] Marsham, [Edward] Rudge, and [Robert] Brown. Considering returning to England on an 1818-1819 ship.