Wishes to introduce botany to the area, whose walks provide so many plants, via a course of lectures explaining Linnaean system; requests Smith's advice. Marquis of Blandford [George Spencer-Churchill] and Murray only men of neighbourhood with any botanical knowledge, hopes latter will prove to be a valuable Linnean Society member.

Found 'Hieracium sylvaticum' on same hill as mentioned in [John] Gerard's [(1545-1612), botanist] "Herbal", apologises if incorrect as ornithology is his favourite pursuit, not botany. Sends specimens for "English botany", notes on habitat. Examined 'Pilosella' of John Bauhin.

Asks Smith to sign certificate for his diploma so as to practice as MD, at request of Professor Beattie of Aberdeen. Has found 'Daphne laureola' growing near him; heard that 'Cypripedium calceolus' grows locally though yet to find it. Death of his wife, his youngest daughter dangerously ill with same illness.

Has observed 'Falio aeruginosus' ['Circus aeruginosus' ?] very common on peat moors, and 'Parus biarmicus' in the sedges, they hope to find nests and eggs of the latter, "an object much desired by ornithologists". Found an 'Orchis' very like 'O. monorchis'.

[Smith has briefly noted contents of his reply] happy to sign, suggests Dr [John] Sims, [William George] Maton, or [Robert] Batty for other signatory. Asks "who & what is Mr [James] Bicheno".

Thanks for Smith's letter of 27 [March 1804] and for signing his certificate and suggestions for further signatories. Particulars of James Bicheno, whom he educated in botany, and details of their finding a plant later sent to Smith. Thanks for mention of himself in "Flora Britannica". Offers to send orchids.

Whilst suffering a severe attack of gout 3 years ago, was recommended the Kingslandian system by Colonel Montagu, but it seized his head and eye and led to further complications. Hopes to begin studying botany again this year. Sent [James] Sowerby specimen of 'Hyacinthus comosus' of Jacquin, wild in this county; observations. Unable to confirm if 'Cypripedium calecol' is a Berkshire plant; believes his friend may have been deceived by foliage of 'Orchis mascula'. An 'Alca aller' was shot inland in early November, by presence of which he portended a long or severe winter. Encloses paper by [James] Bicheno on "the sleep of plants" for Linnean Society.

Found 'Aristolochia clematitis' in flower at Oxford Botanic Garden, discussion with gardener, notes on enclosed specimen [extant]; found 'Tipula plumicornis' in some of the flowers. Wishes Smith success in his application for botanic chair at Cambridge [University]. Concerned at reports of death of Revd Hornsted. Met Dr [George] Williams, Oxford Professor of Botany, at the Oxford garden. His commitment to natural history; has named his recently born daughter "Linnaea".

Specimen of 'Aristolochia clematitis'.