Encloses "curious communication" from DeWitt Clinton, Governor of New York, to David Hosack, on wild wheat; the latter wishes it to be read at Linnean Society. Clinton has sent specimens of the wheat but still awaiting receipt. Hosack wishes to join Linnean Society, suggests he does so as FLS rather than FMLS to save time. Pleased to hear [Alexander von] Humboldt and [Jean] Cuvier are proposed FMLS, , not yet received, wishes to become a Linnean member; glad to hear that Humboldt and Cuvier have been proposed, [Augustin] de Candolle should also be proposed.

Clinton a "very great friend to science, a practical naturalist, & of a most amiable character"; transcribes extract from letter by Clinton describing that "as yet clouds of darkness rest upon the Natural science of our Country". Hopes to send Macleay a Norfolk turkey.

Sorry to hear [Thomas] Marsham has been a defaulter to government, "he that was always so loyal, calumniating better men than himself, with all the cockney church & king cant", and compares him to the "great saints in religion, all with some sinister motive". Thinks the Linnean Society should now enforce payment.

He does not have a spare specimen of 'Saxifraga palmata'; it is identical to 'Saxifraga decipiens' in Ehrhart's "Herba exsiccata" and "Fasciscules", plant of same name in "Flora Danica" dubious. Apologises for writing on a single sheet, which is on account of the enormous postal charges. 'Schmidtia subtilis' is entirely new to him and most acceptable.

Frustrated in his attempts to send Smith a turkey. Comments on death of "good old" [Nikolaus von] Jacquin. "Extremely anxious" that [DeWitt] Clinton be proposed FMLS; praises his introductory discourse in first volume of the New York Society's "Transactions". Prefers [Augustin de] Candolle to be elected next, followed by [José Antonio] Pavon, will write to [Aylmer Bourke] Lambert on the matter, though he is "worried to death with writing letters".