Struggling to grow the seeds sent by Smith due to their arrival late in the season. [William] Thomson [(c 1760-1806), mineralogist and physician] is to visit him and although pleased is disturbed by the reason for his journey [Thomson was disgraced in 1790 following imputations from a previous experiment on a man and accusations of "improper behaviour" with a servant boy]. Involved in sourcing the Republic's army with clothing and other items. Introduces Dr Onofrio Scasto who is carrying the letter and travelling with Mr Malis. Requests seeds, especially of 'Passiflora', 'Mimosa', 'Robinia', 'Aeschinomene', 'Cassia', and 'Lantana', amongst others. Attempting to grow 'Phaseolus caracalla' again after it died in cold weather.