Letter received by Banks from John Smith, 5 February 1772 (Series 06.185) - No. 0001

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Sir/

     saving some paragraphs in the New-papers relative to the makeing a Settlement  at Falklands Island - I was induc'd to make application to go there with my Family ; accordingly I wrote to Dr:Solander & beg'd, to know the terms people were to go upon at the same time offring myself & Family to go there on the same Conditions with the rest of my Country Men -

I am inclin'd, to think my Letter fail'd as I have not had the favour of an Answer
Botany is my greatest delight whatever may be commited to my care I shall do the utmost in pow'r to give Satisfaction - --

my Character may be known by applying to Counsellor [Collott?] of Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire, or Mr: Humphries Attorney of the same place - I signifyd in my Letter to the Doctor that I had been unfortunate in Life & that if Money is a necessary Article I must content myself where I am   my Family Consists of a Wife & three Children, & a Sister

Your immediate Answer will confer the greatest Obligation on Sir Your most Obedt. Humlb Svt.
John Smith

Newport feb: 5th: 1772.
Please to direct to me, to be left at the Post Office Newport Isle of Wight