Letter received by Banks from William Bligh, ca February 1791 (Series 50.03) - No. 0001

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Dear Sir

I last night rec'd a letter from Portlock saying he would go with me provided he had the Command of the small Vessel, & at the same time praying to be made Master & Commander. I had just read it when a Lieut. Gutherie recommended by Lord Hood called on me to sollicit my approbation of his having the Command of the small Vessel. I told him candidly I intended to apply for Mr Portlock, when he endeavord to do away my intention, by asserting he had sufficient weight to get made Master & Comm into the Brigg - I said I believed it would not be done, & pointed out the situation of Lieut Broughton in the Chatham, which he thought nothing of because Mr Broughton had no interest. I recommend Portlock as a capable man, & is the only person I know of fit for the Command, & the service has an interest in his being appointed. I have just mentioned his circumstance with no other view than the good of the voyage. Perhaps Sir you might interest