Letter received by Banks from James Burney, 5 September 1791 (Series 23.12) - No. 0001

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Norton Street Septr 5th. 1791

Sir

The first proof came to me only this morning, which is not saying much in favour of our diligence.  I called in Soho Square where I was informed no parcel would be forwarded to you after to day till next Sunday, which obliges me to trouble you with this sooner than I intended.  The number of copies to be printed, it did not occur to me to ask, before you left Town or whether it is to be left to Mr. Nicols.   

I have sent the first proof marked with such alterations as I thought necessary.  The instructions in Captain Cooks second voyage are printed in Italics.  I know not whether it is worth altering in our proof except at the beginning and end, where I have marked.