Copy of a letter received by Banks from B. Rargukey [?], 23November 1812 (Series 72.138) - No. 0001

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Reduit, 23 November 1812

My Dear Sir

I send you a parcel of what the French people here call Cheveux de volcan, being the production of the Volcano of Bourbon, which was in high action about two months ago when I went to See it.  This Capilliform production is an unusual Specimen of a bridian I believe.  The quantity which came from the volcano was immense.  The whole Island of Bourbon being bestrewed with it.  The Luva [lava] ran about Six Miles into the Sea, & the whole Scene had a most Sublime appearance.  I got a picture made of it by a Self taught Native.  Whilst it has no pretension to any other merit than fidelity, I send it home by the present occasion for His