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Sir Joseph Banks
Sir, Placed as you are at the Head of all Public discovery's, little apology I conceive necessary in addressing you, But at the same time with every degree of respect for your Justly exalted Character, Humbly hope you'll pardon the Liberty I take in addressing those lines to you.
Understanding a Voyage of discoverys is Intended, I beg leave to Apply to go out on that service. I am 36 years of age of sound Health & Activity, given to Mechanical & Philosophical Pursuits, I was Bred a watchmaker & was I flatter myself a workman of repute, when the tax was Paid on watches the trade was at a stop; I then took to Mathematical Inst. [Instrument] Making which I now follow & work for Mr. Adams & several others, many Misfortunes & Viscitudes in life made me desirous to undertake a Voyage of this Kind Hoping to be able to save a trifle to put me forward when I return. I was at sea a short time, I have tools of every Kind & Could undertake to repair all kinds of Instruments in a Workmanlike manner, & Could make myself usefull [useful] at any work as a Smith that might be wanting.
My Character for Sobriety. dilligence & Honesty I trust will bear any Inquirey [Inquiry] as I will refer to People of Credit for that.
The Limits of a letter will not Permit me to Intrude further on your Honors [Honour's] time but will take the Liberty to wait on you Sunday Morning for Any Answer & shall be Happy of the Honor [honour] of an Interview.
I Remain Sir with Due Respect
Your Obed t [obedient] Hum [humble] Servt [Servant] to Command
Boys Err Burrill
Nº 6 Hind Court
Fleet Street
Jan 30.