Letter received by Banks from William Bligh, 7 November 1791 (Series 50.15) - No. 0001

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Cape of Good Hope Nov.r 7 1791
Table Bay

My Dear Sir

          There is but little chance of this letter being delivered, before others which will give you a fuller account of my proceedings - the most agreeable part I have no doubt will be for you to hear that I am greatly recovered from the severe and dangerous illness I have been afflicted with. -

     I am still an invalid & very infirm I however trust the Cape Air will restore me to my usual strength.  I have suffered a great deal, of a dreadfull Nervous disease which followed a putrid fever put me in a melancholy situation.  I now however can bear some Noises and Bustle & give orders. - I anchored here yesterday [indecipherable] with the Assistant all hearty & well except one who has suffered like myself. -

      The Vessels are all I can wish - they answer all I expected of them - Every thing is right.  I send this by a Whaler - Paul, Master - his going on the [indecipherable] Fishing makes his arrival in England very uncertain - He is

[note by Banks]
July  24 1792.