Apologises for not attending to Smith's invitation. Invites Smith to dinner.

Reports general concern at Smith's illness at the Linnean dinner. Thanks for seeds, fears he will fail to raise them with his present gardener, asks if Smith knows anyone who will successfully cultivate them. Political news: government still without a complete administration, seems likely it will consist of the old ministers but with some new and able men.

Smith's candidature for Botany Professorship at Cambridge University. Suffering from ill health and a serious complaint in his eyes. Will support Smith's candidacy but as an Oxford man has few Cambridge connections.

Asks if the enclosed plant [not extant] is the 'Yucca aloifolia'. Delighted with the pamphlet Smith left for him [annotated in pencil is "The considerations respecting Cambridge"].

Expresses his concern at being caught "without a Cinnamon", now unable to pursue botany and "even obliged to borrow a hand for writing".

Thanks for "little publication" sent by Smith, though a defect in his sight prevents him from reading it. Hopes to see Smith soon.