Sending what he can of Dickson's desiderata, observations on numbered specimens, including: 'Lycoperdon forincatum', 'L. stellatum', new 'Byssus', a 'Boletus', an 'Agaricus', 'Clavaria ophioglossoides', 'Botelus luteus', 'Carex inflata', 'Saxifraga autumnalis', may send 'Polycarpon tetraphyllum'. Lately found new specimen he supposes 'Drosera anglica'. Will send 'Salsola fruticosa' and 'Erysimum cheisanthoides' by [James] Crowe.

Requests complete list of Dickson's desiderata. Appends his own list of desiderata [extant, 3pp], and list of plants for Dickson to acquire from Curtis. Also sending [John] Pitchford's 'Polycarpon tetraphyllum', possibly 'Drosera anglica'.

Thanks for plants, especially 'Lobelia urens' and 'Subularia aquatica'. He is going to Edinburgh in a month to study Physic, hopes there he will be of more botanical assistance to his friends. Doubts over 'Elymus arenarius', will look for 'Bryum rigidum', asks if 'Elatine alsinastrum' is a lost plant. Amazed to hear that an 'Arbutus andrachne' sold at Dr Fothergill's for 51 guineas.

Success of his letters of recommendation with Mr Martineau, Dr Nevil, Dr Byam, Mr Gloag, Mr Torry, Mr Martin Lindsay, Miss Scott, Mrs Austin, and Dr Gardiner. Expects to derive most "comfort & advantage" from Dr [John] Hope; his character; recommended above all things that he master Latin; Hope's recommendations for what course to attend. Has been to the infirmary once, his "apprehensions & disgust" much less than expected. His fellow lodgers are Mr Lubbock and [John Henry] Engelhart. Met Lord Monboddo.

Enjoyment of his life and studies in Edinburgh. Reassures his father that there is no danger of botany engrossing his attention too much. His enjoyment of anatomy, has undertaken the Materia Medica, will attend on an apothecary's shop in the summer. Dr [John] Hope's kind attentions. Dined with Mr Gloag, account of his family and status. Dined with Dr Hutton and Dr Black. Excesses of his fellow lodgers, [John Henry] Engelhart and Mr Lubbock. Requests black silk stockings.