William Wire records in his journal: ‘At the lower part of the Botanic Garden opposite Lot IX a layer of wood ashes were discovered about thirty inches below the surface which continued ten feet then an intermission of a few feet then a commencement of it for four feet. Some short distance east of it was a floor of flag stones on which a fire had been made this was about six feet square then more to the east and opposite lot VI was at three feet below the surface a floor of three Roman tiles of the usual size continued by a path made with pieces of septaria and good size pebbles this extended the whole width of the trench dug for sewerage pipes – about three feet wide – how far it extended under ground on each side could not be ascertained as no more ground was removed than absolutely necessary for drainage purposes.’

Also: 'Purchased three pieces of stone – part of a capital – Mullion and window head found in Botanic garden. These probably are the remains of Grey Friars Monastery as that building was in the garden.'<1>