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Sir
I am extremely unfortunate to learn, what I was much afraid of, that you have engaged already all the Artists you think necessary. I should still think my self happy, if it were possible to accompany you, though in ever so humble a Station. I would even asist in navigating the Ship; and as for Room or Conveniences; no such outward Circumstances would in the least affect me, but I should content myself with the Accommodations of even a common Sailor. Some vacancy may possibly happen; but if not, I have a good Constitution, and can endure as much as other Men. I would not thus sollicit you, but that whatever your Plan is, I am confident I could render myself useful. Even a recommendation to Capt. Cooke, if I cannot go with you, would be a Favour. From a Series of strange Accidents, I never receiv'd your Letter till this Morning; else, Sir, I would have waited on you sooner. That you may not wonder at the motives of my Zeal in your Expedition, I have few Connections in England to detain me, a great Desire to distinguish myself in your Service but for my Disinterestedness, I am afraid you over-rate it since your Friendship & Patronage is the End of my Ambition. And though I am dependent on my Father for Fortune, who is I believe on the Point of a second Marriage; yet I think I cannot spend a few years of my Life to better Advantage either to myself or the Public, than by attending you on your noble-spirited Voyage. But I am too troublesome. I shall be quite happy to hear that it is possible for me to go on any Condition.
I am with the most profound Respect
Your most obedient humble Servt
J. Fletcher