Draft letter written by Banks to Lord Sandwich, ca 30 May 1772 (Series 06.001) - No. 0001

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My Lord

the present situation of things regarding the proposed expedition to the South Seas which it was my intention & inclination to have taken on active share in will I trust render any other apology to your Lordship for this intrusion unecessary

to avoid the appearance of inconsistency & to justify my conduct in the eyes of the publick & your Lordship I feel it incumbent upon me to state the reasons by which I am influenced to decline the Expedition

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