APPENDIX 



A LETTER FROM WILLIAM BARTRAM TO HIS NEPHEW DR. 



JAMES BARTRAM, SURGEON ON THE SHIP " GEORGE 



WASHINGTON," SAILING FROM PHILADELPHIA 



TO CAPE OF GOOD HOPE, BATAVIA, 



MADRAS, AND CALCUTTA.^ 



My worthy and Dear Nephew. 



As thou art embarking on a long and distant journey, I take the 

 liberty of communicating my sentiments, in such matters, as eventually 

 may be of use and benefit. My age and experience prompt me to assume 

 this ofl&ce. 



Fear and adore the Divinity. 



Honour and revere thy parents, thy relatives and friends, 

 regard and benefit every one when it is in thy power. 



As human society is founded on subordination, do a rational homage 

 to thy superiors; be social and friendly to every one, even to him that 

 hath been thy adversary. But avoid the society of those who are ireligi- 

 ous, immoral, and intemperate. Yet render assistance, and acts of 

 benevolence, even to those when in distress. 



Respect the religion and laws of every Nation, that it may be thy 

 fortune to be with; and never ridicule their religion and customs, for 

 that can be of no advantage, besides placing thy understanding and 

 good sense in a doubtfull point of view. 



My dear James, although I have good reason to hope that thou art 

 proof against the detestable practice of indulgence in the use of spiritous 

 liquors ; Yet as young company, and what is termed fashionable society, 

 to youth hath a fascinating power and influence; be ever watchful and 

 on thy guard, for be assured, that formidable enemy of youth, and the 

 human race, privately seizes every opportunity, and favourable circum- 

 stance, to entrap the unwary sons of men. 



Be honest and frugal, yet magnanamously liberal, as thy circumstance 

 may authorize. Be charitable, and always be foremost to administer 

 relief to the poor and distressed. 



Guard the honour of women, and never join in the low witty remarks 

 of the ill bred coxcomb to turn into ridicule of the sex some natural 

 foibles, from the conduct of a few week deluded creatures ; who very 



^ See footnote p. 33. 



201 



