Gibson informs Hooker that the gardener from Dundee arrived yesterday [see letter folio 150]. Gibson believes him to be a 'sharp young fellow' and thinks he should do well. The young man does not wish to take the passage going via the Cape: he has never been on a sea voyage before, and the increased length of journey would delay the start of his paid employment. Gibson discusses the alternative routes the gardener might take, including the P. & O. Company's offer of a passage as far as Aden. In the end, Gibson has decided that the best option is for the gardener to accompany him. He decided against taking the young man to see the 'Wonders' of RBG Kew's vegetable world, in case he were to meet other young men who might cause him to repent his engagement. As they embark for Boulogne the following evening, the gardener will have no chance to meet anyone else. Gibson thanks Hooker for the kindness and attention paid to him during his visit to RBG Kew. He sends his regards to Hooker's family and to Dr Thomson and states that he will send one or more despatches of fruits and such like before he reaches India. Pages 1 and 4 of 4.