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[Page 2]

copies of the charts there, which are all done;  but the order for them being not then given, I was unable to bring them down with me, which would have been the safest plan.  I thought to have mentioned this in my letter, but as you, Sir Joseph, were kind enough to say you would settle it, it becomes probable, if you have met Mr. Nepean, that it is already done.

Concerning our examination of the north eastern coast of New Holland, I would beg leave to suggest to you, Sir Joseph, that in those parts where the Endeavour kept along the coast, and where a continued line is laid down, it may be a more useful research for the Investigator to coast without side of the reefs, and ascertain their extent from the coast, rather than to follow the track of captain Cook;  but in that space when no coast was seen by him, it would be proper to come in upon it through the reefs

The prevailing winds in the winter time, and perhaps the greater part of the year, being from the eastward, on the northern coasts of New Holland, the circumnavigation of the island will be very much more expeditiously performed from east to west than the contrary;  and more especially, as from the south-west cape, the wind will be mostly westerly, which will be fair, for running along the south coast, and completing any thing that may not have been fully investigated in the two visits which are to take place previous to the circumnavigation

As particular circumstances may make it necessary to sail round the island twice, I beg leave to mention the propriety of leaving me at liberty to do this.  My greatest ambition is, to make such a minute investigation of this extensive and very interesting country, that no person shall have occasion to come after me to make further discoveries.

I ought to apologise for thus offering my sentiments to to[sic] you, Sir Joseph, and I am indeed afraid you will think them impertinent;  but on consideration, I trust you will impute it to my anxiety for the complete success of the Investigator;  and that you will believe me to be, with the greatest respect and esteem,

 your much obliged and humble servant

 Mattw Flinders

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