Draft of a letter received by John King, Under-Secretary ofState, from Banks, ca 20 June 1798 (Series 19.03) - No. 0005

[Page 5]

one already there which is found to have very bad Qualities as a sea boat can not be alterd made sufficiently Trustworthy & Lieut Flinders a Countryman of mine a man of activity & information who is already there will I am sure be happy if he is intrusted with the Command & will Enter into the spirit of his orders & agree perfectly with Park.
The Crew of such a vessel need not in my opinion Consist of more than ten men.   4 for boat keepers & Six to proceed in the Country with one or both the commanders as might may happen when inland Journies are to be attempted. if Either or both these projects are Carried into execution I will  readily undertake to draw up instructions for all Parties & to correspond with them during the execution of their Plans under the superintendance of your office.  such hopes have I of material discoveries being made & such Zeal do I realy feel for the Prospects of a Colony in the founding of which I have a Considerable share
 

John King Esqr &c &c &c