Letter received by Banks from George Suttor, 8 November 1799 (Series 19.30) - No. 0001

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H.M.L Porpoise [Portsmouth?]
Nov the 8. 1799

Sir

I take the Liberty of Writing to you an account of the State of the Garden on Board the Porpoise - I am happy to say the Vines, Hops, Apples, Pears, Plumbs, Olives Carrobs Camphor Lemon Grass Mulberrys Walnuts Spanish Chesnuts Filberts Quinces 2 Nectrines 2 Peaches.& Strawberry are in a Heathy State - those that have failed are 2 Peaches 2 Nectrines Willows Rasberrys Cactis & Ginger - of Herbs we have only Mint Lavender & Taragon those that have Failed are Sage Savory Laurel Camomile Haysup & Wormwood - I beg leave to mention the 2 sacks of Hemp Seed  one of the Sacks being much Rotten. I am afraid neither of them will servive to the Cape - I am happy to hear that you Sir enjoy a Good State of health that you may long continue to enjoy it is the sincere wish of Sir your ever grateful

Obedient servant
G Suttor