Linnaeus’s latest letter [Linnaeus to Garden, 16 January 1772{L4610}] had made Alexander Garden very happy, since he understood that Linnaeus was in good health and that the specimens he had sent had arrived and been welcome.
Following previous instructions, Garden had tried to study the Zamia, a plant growing in Florida, more in detail. He had contacted his friend, the governor of Florida, and asked for help to determine a number of specific details in this species. The process and the result of this contact are described in great detail. Garden encloses some specimens for Linnaeus.
Garden was very pleased to have received the shrub Anamelis.
Garden has tried to catch some of the Sirene-like animals, but in vain. They are very rare. A specimen might be delivered to him, which he can send to Linnaeus, so that the species can be properly placed in Systema naturae.
The sending also contains two seeds of a large tree growing on the banks of the Savannah river. It is a rare tree, not growing farther north.
The skin and eggs of a reptile are enclosed.
The letter concludes with the character of a dwarf Palma.