Letter received by Banks from Francis Masson, 7 May 1787 (Series 13.32) - No. 0001

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Cape of Good Hope 7 May 1787

Sir

I have sent by the bearer Mr. Staples a box of Seeds containing one hundred & ten Sorts of which I here inclose a list.  I have yet a larger collection ready but the difficulty of Sending them to False Bay obliged me to Postpon [postpone] them to another opportunity which will happen in a few days by a Brig bound to St Helena.  I have not received any Letters from England I am affraid [afraid] they are all gon [gone] past to India.  The only certain conveyance would be to Send them by way of Holland under cover & directed to the Governor of the Cape as he has given me that liberty.

I am Sir Your most Obedient
humble Servant
Frans: Masson

Mr. Staples in one of Concil Bengal. & passenger the Talbot India Sp. [ship].