Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 17 July 1791 (Series 13.53) - No. 0001

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Cape of Gd Hope July 17th  1791

Sir

A few days ago I wrot you by Capt Trail of the Neptun who took charge of two boxes of living plants containing some Euphorbias & Oxalis's in all twelve pots.  I should not have troubled you at this time was it not for a desire to send you some seeds of Graphalium eximium which I have lately procured, it grows on cold heathy mountains in black mossy Soil.

All the Botany Bay fleet is arrived.  Capt Patterson is F [False] Bay but I have not seen him yet.  My time has been much taken up helping G King otherwise I should have sent a small collection of seeds.

I have the honor to be
Sir
You very humble
Servt
Frans:  Masson