Letter received by Banks from WilliamBligh, 15 May 1790 (Series 46.29) - No. 0001

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No 14 Moor Place     Lambeth
May 15th 1790

Dear Sir

I have just received a Packet from my Master dated Batavia 26th Novr 1789 -It came by the Dutch Packet de Lugtbol to Holland - by this perhaps you may be able to form some Ideas of the authenticity of the reports we were conversing on when I last had the honor to see you. -  He gives me an account of their having been sickly & of the Death of Mr.Wm. Elphinstone & Peter Linkletter & Quarter Master-  the first was very much given to drinking. - They were all to sail from Batavia on the 27 Nov.  Mrs Bligh lying dangerously ill prevents me from waiting on you. 

I remain Sir
with much respect
Your faithfull
Hmble Servant
Wm Bligh

[Pencil written not indecipherable]

Sir Joseph Banks Bart.