Letter received by Banks from John Lewis Burckhardt, 20 January1812 (Series 72.012) - No. 0003

[Page 3]

He had returned to Mokha [also spelt Mocha, Yemen] from a long tour through the inland parts of Yemen and Hadramaut , and was finally preparing to Set out upon his African expedition.

Syria is in a perfect State of tranquillity, very propitious to travelling. The Pasha of Aleppo has not yet succeeded in his design to break the power of the Janissaries, he remains quiet in his Seraglio waiting probably for an opportunity to effectuate by treachery what he could not do by open force.  We hear that the Pasha of Egypt has gained repeated victories over the Wahabees, and has put himself in possession of Meka [also spelt Mecca] and Medineh. This is a most welcome piece of news for me, because it will Serve to regenerate the interior trafic of Afrika [Africa], which depends in a great measure upon the Pilgrim Caravans to Meka [Mecca].

I should be much obliged to you if your would have the goodness to let me know whether my 2 large packets have been received.  Be so kind to address Your favors to Coll. Misset, for "Mr. Ibrahim".

I have the honour to remain, dear Sir,
Your most Obedt. humble Servt.
J Lewis Burckhardt.

Aleppo 20th. Janry. 1812

[In margin] Edwards 16.12.46