Copy of a letter written by Banks to Lord Sandwich, June 1772 (Series 06.003) - No. 0003

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alone compleat the discoveries in that Science which himself had began in the course of our Last voyage

Besides these Six domestick servants also to Collect & preserve such Objects as we might think worthy notice, in all thirteen persons besides myself have I engagd to spend three years of the Prime of Lives far removd from their Connexions & amidst the dangers & difficulties of unknown Oceans

     this done I askd of the Publick proper Conveniencies & accomodations for myself & these my Companions that we might be enabled to exert our utmost endeavours to Serve them wheresoever the Course of our discoveries might induce us to proceed.    the navy Board was in consequence of this orderd to procure purchase two Ships & fit them up in a proper manner for our reception which was accordingly done the    two Ships were accordingly purchasd & during the Course of