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[Page 13]
collecting Bird skins. My loss in this department has been mortifying beyond description! Every skin I now put separate in a paper bag. Though I have lost skins which have thus been put up, yet I have every reason to believe, the eggs of the vermin were deposited when the skins were drying. To guard against this evil, I dry my skins in a safe, and pack them up as soon as dry. I generally put some Marjoram or Thyme in the bags, which I imagine prevents the vermin from finding them by instinct. This method I perceive, not only protects the skins from vermin but preserves the plumage; for those which I have otherwise preserved are wanting the brilliancy which these possess. If this method is new to collectors, I would recommend them to adopt it, particularly those who visit warm climates. I flatter myself that when I return to England, I shall be able to make considerable improvements in collecting and preserving plants. I think I told you in my last letter, that in discovery ships I would dry the specimens in an oven fitted up for this purpose. I mentioned in that letter, I had accidently met with some paper, but as I am dubious of it going safe, I shall relate again the manner how I came by it. I heard of some brown paper being in the King's stores, that did not appear to belong to Government. I went to look at it, and learned that all as could be understood of the directions, which were written on the outside of the bundle was "for Governor King" or "to the care of Governor King". Having every reason to believe it had been sent out by you for my use, I made application for it, and it was delivered to me. There had been two reams, but 13 quires of one ream had been used. But Sir, I must say this is a bad way in sending out paper, not only in the directions liable to becoming defaced, but from its liable to getting wet with salt water, which of course must totally spoil all specimens that are packed up in it, if such had actually been the case.
My first time of writing to you after Governor King left this country, was either by the return of the Sydney-cove, or Duke of Portland. I sent 3 letters, bearing date, Sept 25, 27, and Oct 7, 1807; and a memoir which I called "Reflections on the state of the Colony". I also wrote to Gov. King at the same time for your information, respecting a journey I had been. All these I intended to send again by way of duplicate, but no favorable opportunity happening and on account of the revolution, I have declined it. I shall rest myself contented in thinking, that, they were all received about last March or April. I gave a set of bills for £50, upon you, in favour John Palmer Esq.
I make no doubt, but what Governor King has told you, that I wanted to quit the colony: and in all my letters since, I have begged to be recalled by the first favorable opportunity. I now possess the same sentiments for it has long been a miserable wretched place; but now, I do not know in what terms to describe it. Packages, which I ought to have had long ago, I am unable to obtain. I hope the time will not be long before Colonel Paterson steps forward or Major Foveaux arrives. Then I shall make application for the wood. If I am likely