Sends the first part of his commentary on the "Hortus Malabaricus", if suitable for "Linnean Transactions" will forward the rest. The Wernerian Society in Edinburgh will print a similar commentary on the "Herbarium Amboinense". Arranging the dried plants he brought from India according to the Linnaean method and compiling an index, explains his methodology. Reports the progress of the commentary, having reached 'Hexandria' and already has 900 species. Would like to discuss with Smith what to do with specimen duplicates. Has sent an account of his botanical work in India to the Royal Society of Edinburgh which will form an introduction to his commentaries. Requests berries of the 'Viscum'.

Received Smith's letter of 13 April. Thanks for the mistletoe berries. A severe drought in Scotland has killed many young trees, herbaceous plants and crops "so that famine is staring us in the face". Working on his index and has now reached 'Didynamia' and 1500 species and has completed his commentary on the first part of the "Herbarium Amboinense" intended for the Wernerian Society in Edinburgh but despairs at their tardiness. Will continue his work on the "Hortus Malabaricus".