The correspondence regards matters such as Thomson's interest in Greek and ancient history; the ease with which he made friends with strangers, with some anecdotes from Hector; his patriotism; his reasons for leaving the autobiography unfinished and the origination of the manuscript; and the failing health of Lady Thomson.

Thomson discusses a photograph of Mr Gordon he had enclosed, which has not survived, and passes on the good wishes of Edward L Thorndike. The letter also makes reference to Hector's departure, most likely to Jerusalem, and enquires of his wife, Andromache.