Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 16 May 1787 (Series 13.33) - No. 0001

[Page 1]                   

Cape of Good Hope 16 May 1787

Sir

My last letter was by the Talbot India Ship pr favour of Mr. Staples, who was so good to take Charge of a box of Seeds containing 110 sorts.  I had Still a much larger collection but the difficulty of the intercourse with False Bay and the crowded State of the Ship prevented me sending any more.

Now by an American Brig bound to St Helena I have sent a box containing 138 Sorts, addressed to Governor Corneille who will forward them by the first occasion.

I have the honor to be
Sir
Your much obliged Humble
Servant Frans: Masson

I have receide [received] no Letters yet from England.  There is no certain intercourse with the Cape but by way of Holland.