Peter Collinson had had Daniel Solander as his guest during the afternoon, and he had shown a lot of sea plants, the outcome of many years of collecting. Solander was arranging them in a definite order, and he will receive part of the collection, which Linnaeus will see in due time.
At the following supper, a toast was drunk to Linnaeus and other Swedish friends.
Collinson and his son [Michael Collinson] are disappointed that they have not yet received the specimen of Betula nana, a favourite of theirs, which Linnaeus promised them long ago.
Collinson is also disappointed that all his friends have received a copy of [the latest edition of] Systema naturae [Collinson refers to Systema naturae, 10th edition], but not he. He wonders if the oldest friend shall have to wait until last.
Collinson thanks Linnaeus for his congratulation on the British conquest of Martinique, which gave them the true cinnamon tree. However, Collinson is afraid the island will be returned to Spain without securing the tree, for soldiers only think of slaughter and plunder.
Solander is very industrious in enriching himself and the country with all sorts of knowledge in natural history.
Summer in England is delightfully warm with all fruits in great plenty, and in addition, it seems that peace is coming, the best blessing of all.
Collinson wishes Linnaeus health of body and mind.
P.S. 1. Collinson is glad that the bulbous roots pleased Linnaeus. Collinson will send more species next year.
P.S. 2. Collinson’s large magnolia is flowering finely.