Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 27 November1793 (Series 13.58) - No. 0001

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Cape of Good Hope Novr. 27 1793

Sir

I take the opportunity by favour of Mr Porteus the Companies Botanist from St Helena to transmit to you a box of Seeds. He has been here about a Month collecting Trees, Seeds, & plants for recovering the vegetation of that Island.  I was just returned from a very fatiguing journey & could not render so much Service as I could have wished.

His unexpected departure obliges me to be Short not having had proper time to arrange my collection.

I thought to have been in England long ago but not having received answers to my letter of the beginning of ninety one and the news of a War obliged me to remain and undertake another Journey.

I am Sir with respect your
Most Humble Servant
Frans: Masson 

Recd Feb. 8, answerd Feb. 13 1794 & a duplicate sent by Mr. Westerman.