Letter received by Banks from Nathaniel Portlock, 26 December1790 (Series 72.137) - No. 0002

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and settle some private matters in America which has been depending since the year 1771 the Period of my first Embarking in his Masters service.  The fear of offending you Good Sir in this my determination gives me much uneasiness, but I hope in God you will attribute it to the right cause.  I deliverd your message to Captain Vancouver respecting his waiting on you but think you may not Expect a call from him, and from all the Enquiries I have been able to make of him and the Master should suppose the Discovery will sail in about a Week or Ten days, at farthest.  A Mr. Cransten late Surgeon of the Director calld on Capt. Vancouver this day who I understand is to take up his warrant tomorrow as Surgeon of the Discovery.  I have this day wrote Officially to Mr. Stephens given their Lordships my reasons for declining the Command of the Chatham.  With every Sentiment of gratitude and respect.  I have the honour to subscribe myself

your Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

Nathl. Portlock