Letter received by Banks from Philip Gidley King, 5 September 1799 (Series 39.053) - No. 0001

[Page 1]

Dear Sir       

Porpoise underweigh at Spithead Septr 5th.1799

At length the time of our departure is arrived, & I trust that the benefits providence has in store for us will compensate the disappointments we have so long experienced_

I am apprehensive some mistake has been made either in my writing the letter, not disecting it, or some other subject in my part, which I am very sorry for, as the letter was intended for you & indeed to whom could I make the application with so much propriety as to you Sir to whom I must gratefully confess I owe every thing - The letter respecting the letter I sent open for Mr.. Kings inspection, [and as the Idea that as you was likely  to be in the country, he would by that letter, see the necessity of the articles being sent - & in my letter to him, I requested his assisting your benevolent exertions -  from which I promise my self  that I shall be so fortunate to succeed_ Should you be able to accomplish what you so kindly undertake I will be obliged to you to
mention it

Most honorable

Sir Joseph Banks K B       Sent to