Letter of application received by Banks from Robert Fowler, senior, 13 February 1801 (Series 63.31) - No. 0001

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Fowler 1st Lieut

Warboys Febry 13th 1801

Dear Sir

I have just recd [received] a Letter from my Son Robert who has been a twelvemonth Lieut in the Xenophon (now the Investigator).  His earnest wish is to go out with our Countryman Captn. Flinders;  who, he says, has no Objection to take him our as his 1st Lieut.  He further says that, upon his name's being mentioned to you, you was so kind as to express a Readiness to further his Wishes & to be of any future Service to him.  For this accept my Thanks, as it adds a fresh obligation to what has already been recd  from you by, My Wife (formerly - Miss Parnell of Lincoln) begs to join in best respects to Lady Mrs, Miss Banks & Yourself.

Dear Sir
Yr obliged Friend & obedt. Servt.
M Fowler

Robert is of a bold, enterprizing Spirit;  & his character will stand the Test of the strictest Inquiry, and, I flatter myself, his conduct will not discredit Yr. [your] patronage.