Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 13 January [?]1790 (Series 13.42) - No. 0001

[Page 1]

Cape of Good Hope 13th 1790

Sir

As no English homeward bound ships has yet touched here, I though it necessary to send some small collections by English passengers on board Foreign Ships, viz. by Mr Farquharson Purser of the Guardian, passenger on board the French Frigat (l' Driad) a small box containing thirty five Sorts. By Mr Hayward late Midshipman of the Bounty a box of Bulbs containing Forty Sorts. And by Major MacDonald, (Nephew of Sir John MacPhearson) a Box of Seeds containing Sixty Sorts, who comes likewise home in a Dutch Ship. I have a fine collection of Bulbs which I doubt of being able to send home in proper Season, the Seeds will keep until next year.

The Imperial collecter is still here and has made a fine collection. But the Polite Mynheers shew so little respect to his great Master, that he is obliged to remain here contrary to his orders & it is with the greatest difficulty that they will receive any of his part of his collection on board their ships.  He remains here under the patronage of Col Gordon, and unfortunatly he and the Gouveronor [Governor] are Mortal Enemies.

If as E. India Ships toch here I intend to resque a small collection on board a Whale Fisher who lies in the Bay and will depart from this in the month of April.

I am Sir with the greatest respect Yours
Frans: Masson