Series 08.04: Letter received by Banks from Charles Clerke, 31 July 1775 - No. 0002

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matters in England as tho' I had been these 3 years underground - so if I receive no intelligence from you I shall draw bad conclusions and clap on my suit of black, but you know I never despair, but always look for the best, therefore hope and flatter myself this will find you alive and happy, which that it may, is the sincerest Hope and Wish of.  Dear Sir

Your Gratefully Oblig'd
& most H:ble Servant
Chas. Clerke

Excuse the Paper, its gilt I assure you, but the Cockroaches have piss'd upon it -

We're terrible busy - you know a Man of War.  My respects & every social wish to the good Doctor - I'll write him as soon as possible - here's too much damning of Eyes & Limbs to do any thing now.