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[Page 2]
than will pay for them in the time I took in going after those that I sent you, and then can have them made of seasonal wood.
Where I live, Gov. King and Col. Patterson were some time back anxious to establish a Botanic Gardens, but I hear nothing said of it now, however the ground is being waste. Gov. King sent me word a few days ago that the Porpoise was going to Norfolk Island and that if I had a mind to go, I might remain there for a fortnight, or three months, for I a fortnight I had no objections, and was preparing to go but the Lady Nelson happened to arrive which put a stop to my going, as he wished when she came for me to go in her to the Southward. I am of opinion that the plants of Van Dieman's Land would stand the mild Winter in England. I am shortly going a journey in a S.S.W. direction. The Mountains I have not yet visited, but now I have got my paper I can travel with spirit, for before I dreaded to see the face of a new plant by not having the means of keeping it. And from this next Christmas day I intend to go on in a rapid manner. The absence of the paper threw a gloom on me of late that I cannot describe to you in word.
Travelling here is very disagreeable, by having one's victuals and bedding, together with other necessaries to carry which becomes bothersome unless there is a large party. The low living and the warmth of the clime tends much to relax the constitution. However, though I cannot say that I am so able to endure fatigue as when I was in England, yet I enjoy my health, and at the present moment am as great an enthusiast. I omit sending you at this time any returns, as the ship is only bound for the Cape of Good Hope, at which place I understand she will be sold. I am sorry to inform you that the parcel which I wrote to Manchester for is not come in again to hand. I expected it in the Lady Nelson. The Royal Admiral has also lately arrived, but then I do not hear of any such thing of such but this ship has not discharged all her cargo. I had one a thing I shall very soon want. And one pair of the sort that I wear will outlast three pair that are issued out from the Stores.