PREFACE 



WITH the idea of presenting to modern 

 readers an unfamiliar side of the 

 eighteenth century, in which Science 

 and Public Spirit would be represented, 

 it appeared to me that a prominent figure could be 

 chosen to serve as a common centre. The eye fell upon 

 the name of Sir Joseph Banks : concerning whom many 

 persons have vague notions of a distinguished character, 

 not yet unveiled to the student of English social history. 

 Banks 's record is that of a man of unbounded Public 

 Spirit. Science was his passion, and the public service 

 through the applications of science was his constant aim. 

 Fortune favoured him in several ways, and he left an 

 enduring mark upon the times in which he lived. The 

 ensuing pages will be something of a revelation ; es- 

 pecially in the devotion and regard shown to Banks by 

 so many varied characters among his co temporaries. 

 The man has practically vanished from our ken, as an 

 individual ; but, as the tale develops, we shall discover 

 that Banks was the inspiring agent of a number of 

 useful works which have permanently benefited the 

 world. 



A detailed life of this worthy man has always been 

 wanted. Several abortive attempts were made to collect 



