Reassures Macleay he is not "indifferent" to the "sad event" of his departure [to New South Wales, Australia]; he feels the strongest regret. Delayed replying to Macleay's news until he had heard from [Robert] Brown but still waiting; thinks it not suited to his "retired manners" but if he undertakes it "with heart & good will" he would be the best candidate, and would not have asked him if he did not think it did Brown honour, the Bishop [of Carlisle, Samuel Goodenough] "sometimes singular in ideas".

Third volume of his "English Flora" must be finished before he comes to London, which keeps him very busy; his "correspond[en]ts have no mercy". Feels the loss of a "real friend" in Macleay.

JF was elected associate of Astronomical Society. Will send Society's Transactions and JH's 'Absorption of Light.' W. H. F. Talbot delivered JF's 'Crown glass Prism.' JH presented J. G. Soldner's observations to Society and proposed Soldner as associate.

Presented WR's paper on a new photometer to R.S.L. Discusses how objections may be avoided. Believes [John] Leslie's photometer should be thrown aside.