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[Page 2]
same, whatever may be my disappointment, I shall give up the wife for the voyage of discovery; and I would beg of you, Sir Joseph, to be assured, that even this circumstance will not damp the ardor I feel to accomplish the important purpose of the present voyage; and in a way that shall preclude the necessity of any one following after one to explore.
It would be too much presumption in me to beg of Sir Joseph Banks to set this matter in its proper light, because by your letter I judge, it meets with your disapprobation entirely; but I hope that this opinion has been formed upon the idea of Mrs F's continuing on board the ship when engaged in real service.
Two days since, the articles for presents and barter came on board; and yesterday I received orders from the Admiralty to proceed to Spithead; from which I am led to hope that the passport is arrived, and that the necessary orders and instructions will only detain me till your return to town. I expect to sail tomorrow, having taken on board the necessary stores and provisions to complete the exchange of a boat excepted, which can be done at Spithead.
We now carry 50 tons of water of which 25 are in the ground tier; but with the addition of the last eight which is kept at hand for use, we shall be enabled to reach Rio Janeiro without