
          Norfolk Con. Sept. 25th 1828

Dear Sir,

I have just recd [received] a letter from my
friend Mr Oakes Esq. informing me (as from you) that
an expedition is fitting out for the South Seas.
and that among others a Botanist is wanted to
accompany it. Mr. O. states the impossibility of
his accepting the situation, should it be offered
him, and obligingly proposes to recommend me for it,
desiring me to write you immediately if it were my
wish to obtain it. This, together with the half-hour’s
acquaintance which I had with you in the fall of
1823, when I left with you a small package of imperfect
specimens of northern and Georgia plants will
I presume be a sufficient apology for my addressing you.

The situation mentioned by you to Mr. O. it would
give me great pleasure to obtain, provided my qualifications
are such as will enable me satisfactorily
to perform its duties. To my bodily qualifications,
(a point, which, considering the fatique and dangers to
        