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[Page 8]
from the situation, according to their mere whim and phrenzy. Whenever every circumstance is duly weighed and considered, it will be found that severe measures must be enforced. The evils which I have long ago pointed out to you now bid fair to be publicly investigated, the expenditure of the public money accounted for, and every delinquent brought to the tribunal of justice. And on the day of the removal of this standing regiment, every man of worth throughout the colony, may hold as a day of thanksgiving, by getting rid of a pest, so highly injurious to rational freedom.
You see Sir upon what footing I have taken up my pen, and I shall not fail to write to you by every favorable opportunity, by fearing that some of my letters may be intercepted. The ship by which I send this letter, I am informed will sail in about a week, but though this may be the intention of those who have the directing of her, yet the rising party may throw numerous obstacles in the way, and retard the time. At all events, I was determined not to be behind hand; and should any thing else occur by the time being prolonged, I shall write again.
You must naturally suppose that I am much cramped in my pursuit by this storm of fate, yet, I keep adding to my collection. I have discovered two new species of Boronia with pinnated leaves, since I last wrote to you. Though I make but little progress in the discovery of new things, I have cleared up some doubtful matters. What I am doing at present may be called the gleanings of Natural history, rather than the discovery of new objects. I hope you are in possession of the letters in which I have expressed so strong a desire of returning home. I am very proud of my collection, and shall be very choice how I venture on board ship. I would rather wait a considerable time, than to risk it as Mr Brown did his. We should not only be eager to collect, but to preserve what we have collected. My last letter from you was received last June three years. I cannot account for your not writing. You stand very much in your own right, by not spurring one up. What fatigue I have under gone, and the obstacles that have been thrown in my way are enough to wear out stronger constitutions, and overcome more rigorous minds, than mine. It would be in vain for me to attempt describing them by the pen. However, I shall content myself by thinking, that I have erected a line of Beacons as a guide for future Botanists, and rendered the road more easily to travel.
I am Sir
With the highest esteem and regard
Your most obedient
and most humble servant
George Caley
Parramatta
Oct 28 - 1808
Right Honorable
Sir Joseph Banks Bart