150 THE LIFE OF SIR JOSEPH BANKS 



with a view to discover the outlet of the Niger. Writing 

 to Banks (October 20), he tells him of this offer of Lord 

 Hobart. He is to have a guard of twenty-five soldiers, 

 and a remuneration of ten shillings a day and 200 

 a year. The misunderstanding with Sir Joseph cleared 

 away like a summer cloud. Banks responded with warm 

 congratulations : "I have every reason to believe that 

 the plan, as well as the object of the undertaking, will 

 suit your opinions and ideas. As the offer made to you 

 seems handsome, I would by all means advise you to 

 return to London." 



There was much to do in preparation. Park obtained 

 the assistance of a Moor, to reside with him at Peebles 

 while he learned Arabic. He improved himself diligently 

 in Astronomy and the use of instruments, and in the 

 methods for taking meteorological and magnetic observa- 

 tions. Thus thoroughly equipped, he finally left his 

 home in September, 1804, and reached London with a 

 prepared idea of his future operations. A memorandum 

 was given by him to the War Secretary, embodying 

 his plans. This document, of which the following is a 

 skeleton, is a remarkably clear exposition of the objects 

 in view ; and is a definite proof of his abilities, as it is of 

 the high spirit with which he undertook his task : 



The extension of British Commerce and the enlarge- 

 ment of our Geographical Knowledge. 



The investigation of the nature of the countries passed 

 through, especially with regard to their natural produc- 

 tions and the establishment of possible trade routes. 



The articles of merchandise and their relative value, 

 and the extent to which the habits of the natives would 

 bear upon traffic. 



The study of Natural History, and correct records of 

 latitude and longitude ; together with a survey of the 

 Niger, and of the Settlements thereon, and their inhabi- 

 tants. 



