Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 17 October 1798 (Series 13.65) - No. 0001

[Page 1]

Montreal Octr. 17th 1798

Sir

I have but just time to write a few lines to accompany a box of specimens and a Bag of Zizania a vessel being to sail immediatly [immediately] for Quebec.  I have directed it to Mr. Blackwood who I hope will send it on board a good Ship.  I have also prepared a box of seeds but as Mr: McKenzie is going down by land he promises to take charge of it, and I shall writ more particularly by him.  I have not yet been in the Country where the Zizania grows in any quantity I got a Peck from the Indians.  The grains seems to be much broke by threshing.

I am Sir wh [with] the greatest respect
Frans: Masson

Seeds were sent to Soho Square by Mr. MacTavish Decr. 14 1798.

Novr. 30