Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales
Matthew Flinders - Private Letters, vol.3, 1810-1814, with letters from Ann Flinders, 1814-1821
S1/57
Mr. Robt. Cousins, Kirkby near Bolingbroke - Lincolnshire
London, 16 King Street - Soho
Nov. 9. 1810
Sir
I am requested by Mrs Flinders to acknowledge the reception of your letter (without date,) and of the order inclosed in it for £9.18.6 upon Messrs. Veres etc; and in so doing I beg to offer you her thanks and mine for the obliging care and trouble you have taken in her and my affairs, and for the good wishes for our happiness which your letter contains.
I purpose to be down in Lincolnshire as soon as possible, and think it will not be more than a fortnight or three weeks before we shall be at Mr. Franklin's at Enderby, where I propose to myself the pleasure of seeing you. It is my intention to take my £200 out of the bank at Spilsby at that time, and beg the favour of you to give notice of it, should such a step be necessary.
Mrs. Flinders joins me in best compliments with, dear Sir,
your obliged and obedient humble servant
& Mattw. Flinders
Mr. W. Walker, near the eighth mile stone, Richmond
16 King St. Soho Nov. 12. 1810
Dear Sir
I have received from Mr. Charles Hursthouse, an extract from the register relative to the burial of his father, with the minister's certificate of its being literal and true; but Mr. H. objects to swearing that his father was concerned with Mr. Franklin in any property in the three per cents consolidated, until he receives a letter from you informing him of the circumstances for he himself is a stranger to them. Now, my dear Sir, this cannot be done and the affidate got up before the time that I propose setting off for the country; but do you not think that the affidavit of some person in town, acquainted with the circumstances would be sufficient. My brother is willing to do it, if no objection would lie against him, and I do not see any; but if you know any other person unconnected
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Mr. Walker
unconnected with me, it might perhaps be better
In the case of your judging the affidavit of Mr. Charles Hursthouse can alone be sufficient, may I beg of you to write him a few lines explaining that how these £500 in the three per cents consols have arisen, and the cause of their having been bought in, in the names of Hursthouse and Franklin; and I must then defer my journey till the affidavit can be received. But if you think my brother's affidavit will do, I can get it done on Wednesday, and on Thursday if convenient to you should be ready to go with you to the bank and get out the power which I am to take down for Mr. Franklin to execute.
May I beg your early answer and opinion upon this, and it will oblige, dear Sir
Yours very truly
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Eland 18 West Smithfield with a shaving case formerly belonging to our worthy deceased friend Mr. Tyler, and which I sent a present to Mr. E. Thos Wilson Esq. Ives Place Maidenhead - Nov. 17. 1810
Excuses for not having gone to visit him and Mrs. Wilson
Monsieur Edward Merle - Prisoner of war at Moreton Hampstead
No. 3 Cliffords Inn Fleet Street
Nov. 19. 1810
Monsieur
Je viens de recevoir votre lettre, et m'empresse de vous donner quelques nouvelles de la famille Pitot que j'ai quitté au mois de Juin 1810. A l'exception de M. Brunet tous se portaient bien. Il avait essuyé quelques attaques d'une espèce d'epilepsie, et il y eut un projet de le faire passer en France. Mlle. Lucie s'est mariée au mois d'Avril avec M. Dayot et se trouvait très heureuse. Je me suis trouvé aux noces à Chimère; et Madame votre mère y joua un role à l'aide du talent poétique de l'ami Thomy y joua un role très gai, et on y dansa jusqu'au point du jour. M.et Mad.Pit au nombre, y inclus les spectateurs, de soixante personnes
Vous savez, Monsieur, le malheureux état des affaires à l'Isle de France, et sans doute la prise de Bourbon. On croit que celle de la premiere s'ensuivra, et que nous en aurons les nouvelles sous
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sous peu de mois. Je suis fâché, que le project pour un echange de prisonniers à échoué; ce qui rende tout ce que je pourrais faire pour vous auprès du bureau de Transport, inutile pour le moment, mais lorqu'une occasion se presente, soyez assuré, Monsieur, que je ne vous oublierai pas
Je me suis rendu l'autre jour à Odiham, pour porter des lettres et nouvelles à Mess. Kerbalance, St. Perne, et Chamisso; et pour y placer M. Ed. Asserre un neveu à Mad. Curtat, nommé Ed. Osserre, que j'ai fait tirer d'un ponton où il a passé près de cing ans dans [indecipherable] beaucoup etat de misère
Les prisonniers appartenant a l'Isle de France sont en faveur au bureau, tous les prison Anglais qui y ont été detenus ayant rendu temoignage de la bonne conduite des habitants à leur egard; et certainement le mien n'a pas été moins favourable. A l'égard du secour pécuniare que vous désirez, je suis faché de ne pouvoir faire tout ce que je desire pour vous; à cause de l'etat d'incertitude et de derangement dans mes affaires provenant d'un si longue absence. Mais je vous envois un billet de dix livres sterling, pour lequel vous me donnerez un ordre sur Messieurs Pitot à l'Isle de France, si cela vous convienne
Je parte pour le nord d'Angleterre, où je serai jusqu'au au commencement de Janvier. A mon retour je vous prie de me donner de vos nouvelles à l'adresse suivante
Capt. M. Flinders
at Mr. Standerts
3 Cliffords Inn Fleet Street
London
et que vous me croirez toujours empressé de vous servir
J'ai l'honneur d'etre Monsieur, votre tres humble
et tres obéissant serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
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Monsieur Baudouin - Prisoner of war on board the Suffolk - Portsm.
3 Cliffords' Inn Fleet Street
London Nov. 19. 1810
Monsieur
Le 17 dernier j'ai reçu une lettre de Monsieur Taylor par laquelle j'ai appris qu'au lieu d'être mis sur parole comme je vous ai cru n'ayant pas de vos nouvelles, que vous étiez mis datenu sur le Ponton le Suffolk. Cela m'a beaucoup peiné, Monsieur, je vous assure; et j'ai été au bureau de Transport au premier moment, pour en savoir la raison, et vous faire tirer de là. On y l'a trouvé extraordinaire que vous etiez mis en prison, et a dit que certainement vous aviez fait quelque chose contre les régles; l'ordre etant, que le capitainne de tout vaisseau audessus de soixante tonneaux serait fût mis à la campagne sur parole. J'ai obtenu pour qu'on écrivit à l' agent pour savoir la verité, et qu'au cas que c'etait qu'il n'y avait rien contre vous, que vous soyez mis dans la position d' autres prisonniers en pareille situation des.autres capitaines de vaisseaux marchands: ce que j'espère aura lieu incessamment
Je me suis rendu à Odiham il y a quelques jours, pour porter des lettres et des secours aux Mess. Kerbalance, St. Perne, et Chamisso; et pour mettre le jeune Ed. Osserre, que j'ai fait tirer du Suffolk, dans une situation convenable. Aujourd'hui je reçois une lettre de M. Ed. Merle, pris sur l'Epervier, me demandant des nouvelles et du secours; un -
Je parte sous peu de jours pour faire un tour parmi mes parents et amis an nord d'Angleterre; je serai de retour dans la première semaine de Janvier, et alors je vous prie de me donner de vos nouvelles, et de me dire si je pourrais encore vous être utile.
Adressez moi par la voie du bureau comme suit
Capt. M. Flinders
Mr. Standerts No. 3 Cliffords Inn - Fleet Steeet
London
J'ai l'honneur d'être Monsieur, avec estime
votre dévoué serviteur et ami Mattw. Flinders
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Lt. Henry Taylor, commanding H. M. Cutter Olympic-Woolwich
16 King Street Soho Nov. 19. 1810
Dear Sir
Your letter of the 13, I did not receive until the 17th. and it was then almost worn to pieces in some person's pocket. I thank you for the trouble you have taken about my things; they cannot be better than with Mr. Whidbey. With respect to the small case, if you enter any thing in the custom house, I will thank you to enter. that at the same time, and then if convenient, put it on shore at Mr. Whidbey's with the other things: what it expense you may be, or may have been, at about them, I shall repay with pleasure to whomsoever you may please direct.
I this morning went to the Transport Board relative to Mons. Baudouin. They told me he must have done something improper, for the Agent to have put him into a prison ship; but promised to write to know the truth, and if he had done nothing to order him into the country on parole: I have also written to him today
I am sorry the poor man lost his coffee, and fear there must have been some mismanagement: you say afterwards that you will pay him the amount of the coffee which I do not comprehend
The present unfortunate illness of His Majy. has been a bar to my getting my rank, but have yet hopes of succeiding, as I find every body disposed to aid me in getting through my various businesses
In two days I set off for the north of England, but expect to return to my present lodgings some time in the first week in January, after which it will give me great pleasure to see you, should business or pleasure call you to town
I remain, dear Sir,
very truly yours
Mattw. Flinders
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Mr. Charles Hursthouse Tydd St. Mary's Winear Wisbeach
Cambridgeshire
16. King Street - Soho - London
Tuesday Nov. 20. 1810
My dear Sir
I duly received your letter of the 10th. with the Ministers certificate of burial etc. for which I much thank you. The certificate is the only part that will stand good, and that only when sworn to. I have now taken all the necessary steps at the bank, and obtained the affi form of the affidavit such as they require. But I have no occasion to keep you longer on this subject, for I have taken places in the Cambridge coach for Mrs. Flinders and myself, for Friday morning next, and on Saturday about noon we shall be at Wisbeach. We shall there endeavour to find out Mrs. and Miss Hursthouse; and as it is market day, we hope to have the satisfaction of meeting you at their house. Our intention is, to accompany you to Tydd, and there to pass one or two days with you, before we proceed to Spald when I shall have an opportunity of explaining every thing relative to the business of the funded property in question, and of talking with you upon the changes that have taken place in our respective families and upon other subjects. Our approaching meeting renders it unnecessary for me to enter into any further particulars, I shall therefore, at the present, conclude with respectsrequesting Mrs. Flinders' and my compliments may be made acceptable to Mrs. Charles Hursthouse, and that you will believe me very sincerely.
Your affectionately cousin and
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
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Mrs. Flinders - Donington near Boston - Lincolnshire
16 King Street - Soho - London
Tuesday Nov. 20. 1810
My dear Mother
The various occupations I have had to pursue during my residence since my arrival have scarely left me any time for writing letters; and so much the more so, as I wished to get through these occupations as soon as possible, in order that I might be able to get down into the country to see you.
I have now got so far through my business, as to have taken places in the Cambridge coach for Friday morning next. On Saturday at noon, we expect to be at Wisbeach, and there to meet Mr. Charles Hursthouse, with whom I have some Business; which, with my desire to stay as long as I can with him, and to see my uncle at Spalding will not allow us to be at Donington before Tuesday at the soonest, and perhaps it may be Wednesday. We propose to pass the rest of the week with you, my dear mother, and with my sisters and our old friends. On leaving Donington we go to Boston, Enderby, Louth, Hull, and Beverly; at each of which places we shall have to pass from two to four or five days. I should, for myself, have desired to stay longer than I can be allowed; but the Admiralty having decided that I shall write the account of my voyage of discovery, is anxious for its being got on with as quick as possible, and on that account press me to return to town
As I shall have the pleasure of seeing you so soon, it is not necessary for me to tell you anything further at present of my proceedings or future intentions: we shall have time to talk of all these at our leisure by the evening's fire side. I therefore cl conclude, with assuring you of Mrs. Flinders' and my respectful attachment and affection, and our hopes of finding you and all our friends in good health
Mattw. Flinders
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Notes left on going out of town
Mrs. Major is requested to send all letters for me to Mr. Standert 3 Cliffords Inn
All letters on service or from the E.I. Company or coming by the general post Mr. Standert is requested to directethem to me at Mr. Pearson's Bridge St. Boston, Lincolnshire until Dec 6. from thence to 14th. at Mr. Franklin's Mavis Enderby near Bolingbroke Lincolnshire. From Dec. 15 to 22nd. at Mrs. Tyler's Beverly Yorkshire. From 23rd. to 29th. at J. Newbolts Esq. Hull, after which all letters are to be kept until my return to town
Captain Flinders will probably remit an order from the country for £200, when he will give directions how it is to be employed
When Mr. Standert gets the £500 from the Navy Board, he is requested to buy £500 stock in the Navy five per cents, in the name of Matthew Flinders captain in His Majestys Royal Navy
If he should have to receive the £600 from the E. I. Company, it must be kept by him, to be disposed of when I come to town
Nov. 22. 1810
Mattw. Flinders
Osborne Standert Esq. Clifford's Inn - Fleet Street London
Louth Dec. 16. 1810
My dear Sir
I received a letter at Boston from the Admiralty upon an affair of little importance, but have not received any letter from the E.I. Company as I expected, and the more so, as a gentleman from town tells me he thinks my brother said a letter came from the company but a few hours bef after I left my lodgings. Should you have received any such, or any other general - post letters not coming from Lincolnshire, pray send them to me agreeably to the note I left with you; and I will thank to ask my brother about the Company's letter if you have not seen it
I have received the £200 which I expected to get at the Spilsby bank; but to avoid expense and the carrying it round with me, have desired their banker to advertise Veres in Lombard St. to pay it to me on my arrival in town
Mrs. Flinders is in tolerable health and joins me in best compliments to Mrs. Standert and yourself, with my dear Sir
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
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to Mrs Flinders Donnington
go straight to London in the coach. This letter I shall put into the post as we pass through Lincoln, and leave it unfinished till then.
Hull, Dec. 31. We have passed a racketting week here; and having dined out or had parties every day. I have been prevailed upon to stop this day in order to dine with Mr. alderman Hollingworth, whose wife is a cousin of Mrs. Flinders'. We cross the Humber tomorrow, and I have taken places in the Barton coach for London on Wednesday the 2nd. and we shall get home, I hope, on Thursday evening to King Street. In passing through Lincoln Falkingham I shall drop this for you, and also a note for Mr. Shinglar as I promised; but we cannot stop to call upon him. I am desired by Mrs. Flinders, and all our friends at Beverly and at this place to say everything that is kind and obliging to yourself, and my two sisters. I beg my compliments to Mr. Wilson and all friends at Donington and remain dear Madam Yr. affect. Son and sincere friend M.F.
Mrs. O'Beirne - Ardhacean House, Navan, Ireland
Kingston upon Hull, Dec. 2 [indecipherable] 1810
Madam
I have just now the honour of receiving your letter of the 19th. instant which has followed me from London to this place; and although I am unable to give you any hope relative to the worthy but unfortunate subject of it, I lose no time in giving such information as is in my power.
Mr. Denis Lacy had very nearly completed his six years servitude, as a midshipman in the navy, when I returned from Port Jackson to Wreck-Reef Bank with relief for my shipmates who had remained upon it; and being desirous of reaching England and to pass his examination as early as possible, he preferred, to rather than to go round by China with the rest of my officers, to go back to Port Jackson where he expected to meet the Calcutta. I complied with his wish and gave him the command of a small schooner that had been constructed on the bank, and intrusted my despactches for governor King to his care.
I have learned that he arrived safely; and that not finding the Calcutta, he embarked for Mauritius with a French gentleman, who had purchased a small brig at Port Jackson There and intended to return through by the way of Torres Strait, with which new passage Mr. Lacy had some
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Mrs. O'Beirne
had some acquaintance from having been through it with me in the Investigator. There is reason to believe, that they stopped at Wreck Reef in passing by, for I have been told, that a note was found from them, left in the cabin of the Wrecked Porpoise: Of this, however, there is I have no certainty.
The owner of this little brig, called [indecipherable] and who had commanded the L'Adele at Port Jackson, where he left the French gentleman before mentioned, called upon me in prison at the Isle of France in 1804; but neither at that time, nor I believe at the time I left that island (June 1810) had any tidings arrived there of the fate of the brig or of any person on board; and there is but too much reason to fear, that they have either been attacked by the savages who inhabit the islands in Torres' Strait, or been lost on some of the numerous reefs it contains.
This, Madam, is the sum of what I am able to inform you concerning Mr. Denis Lacy; and I have only to add my regret at the loss of so fine, so intelligent, and so honourable a young officer; who would certainly have done honour to the profession he had adopted, had he been spared to his country men and sorrowing friends
I have the honour to be, Madam, with respect
Your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. In the 16. and 17 volumes (I think) of the naval chronicle, is some account of our voyage and shipwreck, from the pen of a friend of Mr. Lacy, and where he is mentioned as he deserves.
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Dec. 9. 1811 Preamble
Sir
Upon consultation with the Rt. Hon. Sir Jos. Banks, respecting the division of £600 received from the East India Company, in completion of the £1200 table money allowed to the commander and gentlemen of the Investigator, it was considered that the most equitable mode of division was that which had been adopted with the first £600 at the commencement of the voyage, which was as follows
s d
Stamp for draft 4. 8
To the commander £290. 12. 4 the men of science 150. 11. -
Four gunroom officers 150. 12. -
Therefore each of the men of science have to receive £50.4 and each of the gunroom officers £37.13 out of the present £600
In consequence, I inclose herewith an order for £50.4 (or £37.13) which you will be paid payable on demand; and I have the honour to remain Sir,
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Addressed to the respective
Scientific gentlemen, and officers
late of His Majesty's ship the
Investigator
Mr. Whidbey, master attendant - Woolwich dockyard
16 King Street Soho Dec. Jan.10.1811
My dear Sir
I have been absent in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire these last six weeks, which has prevented me from writing to know whether you were yet returned from your northern expedition. It seems, that I had the misfortune to go down to Woolwich to see you, the day after you had set off, as the porter at the dock gate told me; and I therefore returned to town much disappointed: In a few days after wards I went into the country myself
I desire very much to see you, my dear Sir; and if you are not coming to town soon, I shall, when I know you are at home
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Mr. Whidbey
take dedicate the first leisure day to visiting you at Woolwich.
Lt. Taylor, commander of the Olympia cutter, informed me, that he had put a trunk and some things belonging to me, on shore in the dockyard, under your care. If this is the case, may I beg of you to send them up to town, either by a common carrier, or in a small cart hired for the purpose: the latter mode I should think the best, if not too expensive
Your friend captain Johnson brought home from the Cape of Good Hope, three tolerably large trunks for me, and I understand he has left them at Chatham. Can you tell me where in whose hands they are at Chatham, or what steps I must take to obtain possession of them? they contain nothing that can be considered contraband, unless a few French books should be thought so
On monday I change my lodgings to No. 7, Nassau Street, Soho, so that and where consequently, you will find me after this week, and do Mrs. Flinders and myself the greatest pleasure by calling. She is tolerably well after the fatigues of our long circular journey in the country, and joins most sincerely her best regard, to those of, my dear Sir
Your affectionate friend and
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
A Mons. Ed. Merle French prisoner at Moreton Hampstead
No. 7 Nasssau St. Soho - London
Jan. 11. 1811
Monsieur
Ayant J'ai été absent de Londres plusieurs semaines; mais a mon retour je n'ai reçu votre billet pour 240 frances par la voie du bureau, que depuis quelques jours. Le billet [indecipherable] fut seul, ce que me fait craindre que vous n'ayez pas reçu ma lettre du 19 Novembre dernier
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Mons. Ed. Osserre - French prisoner at Odiham, Hants
Londrès, à No. 7 de Nassau Street - Soho
a 11 Janr. 1811
Monsieur
Votre lettre du 14 Novembre est venue arrivée trop tard pour me trouver à Londres, elle ne m'est venue qu'à la fin de Decembre, dans le nord du Rayaume. En même temps avec cette lettre avouant que le jeune homme à bord du Suffolk n'est pas votre cousin, j'ai reçu une de M. Louis du Jardin, priant, comme votre cousin, d'être mis à Odiham avec vous. Je ne vous dis pas ceci, Monsieur, pour vous inquiéter sur ma disposition à votre égard; la franchise avec laquelle vous avez avoué cette petit mensonge faute, et la bonté de vos intentions, l'ont effacé de mon esprit; mais je vous le dis, pour que vous voyiez qu'une fois entré dans le un chemin tenebreux, on ne peut savoir tout ce qui où celà nous entraine nous mène, ni en prevoir tous les inconveniens
Je continuerai de vous servir de tout mon pouvoir mieux et. J'espère que vous avez reçu regulièrement votre pension de £2 à la fin de chaque mois; J'en avais payé pour trois mois aux banquiers de M. Seymour avant de quitter Londres; mais j'ai perdu le nom et l'adresse de ces banquiers, et vous prie de sorte que, lorsque vous m'écrivez, je vous prie de me les donner pour que je leur remette de l'argent encore avant l'expiration du temps
Monsieur Baudouin est tiré du Suffolk; A actuellement il est à Peebles en Ecosse, et il m'ecritoù, m'ecrit-il du 2 Janvier, "Je suis aussi bien que prisonnier peut être; les habitants sont fort bonnes gens, et le commissaire chargé de notre surveillance un brave homme qui nous accorde autant de liberté qu'il le lui est possible." Il me prie d'obtenir pour qu'il retourne en France sur parole; mais outre la difficulté extrême, peut-être l'impossibilité de celà, il faut que je ménage le peu de protection que je puisse avoir auprès du Bureau de Transport, contrepour l'epoque où l'etat de l'Isle de France me permette de demander le renvoie de ces Messieurs qui y ont des parents ou des biens; et dontparmi d'autres de M. Ed. Merle en
Vous aurez reçu une lettre de M. Henckel, qui, comme il parait m'a dit, a une correspondence indirecte avec Madame votre mere.
Je vous prie de presenter mes compliments affectueux à Messieurs de Kerbalance, Chamisso et St. Perne, et me croire, Monsieur
Votre ami et serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
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Mrs. Flinders - Donington near Boston, Lincolnshire
16 King Street - Soho - Jan. 11. 1811
My dear Madam
I have delivered up to Samuel his note for £100 and have taken his stamp receipt for the £600. I have also signed one myself, although the transfers have not yet been completed; and when I find an opportunity of sending them to you without the expense of postage double postage it shall be done
My brother and I have talked over the affair of Mr. Large's house, and he consents to its being sold, and will sign the deeds when required; we have now, therefore, the consent of all the parties. It would save time, trouble, and expense, if the sale could be effected immediately, without any advertisement in the papers; and my opinion is, that if Mr. Large would give £550 for it, to enter at Michaelmas next that he should have it; but I would wish you to consult Mr. Dodd and Mr. Gleed upon it, to know whether they think it would fetch more, was it advertised in the Stamford news paper. If you and they think it would not, the
proposition might be made to Mr. Large as follows
If Mr. Large will give £550 for the house and paddock, the as they stand, that he may get the writings made out and we will all sign them; that Henrietta not being of age till Jan. 1812 you and myself will be guarantees that she will sign the deed at that time: The money to be paid, and deeds signed at and delivered at or before Michaelmas next. If Mr. Large will not give £550 free of all expenses and deductions, you will let me know, and I will advertise it for sale as a situation where a medical man has been successfully established for sixty years past. I do by no means wish to bring in a competitor to Mr. Large, but it is incumbent upon us to do the best for the [indecipherable] you and the succession; and he has it in his power to give as to prevent it by giving as much as another person will, in which case he will have the preference
If after consulting with Mr. Dodd and Mr. Gleed, you then think the proposition ought to be made, then copy off the above paragraph and shew it to Mr. Large, and let me know his determination as soon as you can
With respect to the employment of the money, it would be best to place it in a mortg sure mortgage, if a sure mortgagee can be found who will take it and
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pay the income tax upon it, besides your legal interest of five per cent: in this Mr. Gleed would be able to assist you. If no such mortgagee can be found then I would recommend its being placed in the 5 per cents which appear to give the best interest. The first thing, however, is to complete the sale, and I think we ought to expedite it, as much as conveniently may be
On Monday 14, we change our lodging to No. 7 Nassau Street, Soho, where I have found more room for the same money. We shall have a little bedroom closet for Henrietta when she can come to see us at the latter end of the winter.
Mrs. Flinders and my brother join me in affectionate regards to yourself and my two sisters, and in remembrances to our friends at Donington. Should my uncle be with you pray present our affectionate kind respects to him. I remain
your sincere friend and affectionate son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Notice should be given Mr. Large to quit at Michaelmas, whatever is may be the way in which the house may be sold
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Mr. Charles Hursthouse, Tydd near Wisbeach Cambridgeshire
7 Nassau Street - Soho
My dear Sir
Jan. 12. 1811
In the course of my examination at Donington into the mother family affairs, it appeared that it would be greatly for the interest of her my mother-in-law and of the succession, to sell the house and paddock marked in the schedule of the will No. 1. It now lets for no more than £19 per annum, whilst it sell, [indecipherable] at least for £500 and requires that £100 should be immediately laid out upon it in repairs; whilst if sold in its present state, it would fetch at least £500. Now both my mother and all my father's surviving children desire, that it should be sold, but it appears that no power is given to the trustees in the will or codicil to the guardians trustees to sell; but to dispose of real property; we conceive however, that all our consents being given, and signatures obtained to the deeds, that a sufficient title may be made out to the purchaser, as well now as after my mother's death, when both this house and all other real property, must necessarily be sold, in order to making the division. Now whether my mother, and we the children surviving children, are to be the sellers, or whether you the trustees are to sell, by authority from us, I do not know; but if you would have the goodness to take the will and codicil to your attorney at sollicitor at Wisbeach, he would decide whether a title can be made out during my mothers life, and in what manner it can be done. With respect to Henrietta not being of age, she will be so in Jan. 1812 and it cannot be sold before entered upon before Michaelmas next; but my mother and I would be guarantees for her signature at the proper time.- You would oblige me by letting me know what your sollicitors opinion is, so soon as you shall have obtained it
Thus far business. Let me now tell you, that Mrs. Flinders and myself arrived in town on the 3rd. in the evening, after a fatiguing journey of 170 miles in the snow, and which kept us 34 hours in the coach; she, however, stood it remarkably well; and except an attack of her head ach now and them, is in tolerable health. We passed our week at Donington, Enderby, and Hull, our four days at Boston and Beverly, and in fine, accomplished our journey as it had been projected. We had been led to hope by Mr. Newbald, that we should have found you at
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Hull on our return from Beverly; and I have not been easy that you neither went or wrote to Mr. N. before the time we left him, fearing that it may have been an indisposition that prevented you: Pray mention, when you write, how your cold and hoarseness go on
I beg to be remembered affectionately to our two dear friends at Wisbeach; in this Mrs. Flinders and my brother join me, as also in kind kind regards to yourself and Mrs. Hursthouse. I have changed my lodgings to more commodious rooms in the house whence this is dated; we do not however go to them till Monday. Nothing has been decided during my absence from town, either relative to the antidating my rank as post-captain, or to the writing my voyage of discovery. The first lord of the Admiralty Mr. Yorke has been so much occupied by the constant cabinet councils, and lately by an indisposition, that I have not yet been able to see him since my return; I expect in a few days, however, to be set to work upon my arduous writing task
I am, my dear Sir, your affectionate friend and cousin
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur Louis de Chamisso - French prisoner at Odiham - Hampshire
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Jan. 25. 1811
Monsieur
Votre lettre du 12 Janvier ne m'est venue que le 20 du même mois dernier. Je l'ai lu avec l'intérêt que dont vous m'avez fait l'honneur de me croire susceptible; et le premier jour que mes affaires pressantes m'ont permis de sortir, je me suis rendu au Transport Board pour faire accueillir vos deux requêtes presenter et faire accueillir, s'il y avait moyen, vos deux requêtes. D'abord j'y ai vu M. Adams auquel j'ai fait connaître savoir la nature de ma mission, et ai demandé s'il y avait d'exemple d'une permission donnée pareille à celle que vous desirez obtenir. Il m'a dit qu'autre fois il y avait en eut plusieurs; mais que dans ces derniers temps aucun les prisonniers n'est ne sont point revenus de France d'après sa leur parole. non par par sa faute [indecipherable] Le bureau a reçu des lettres de quelques uns exprimant leur fort desir à revenir, mais que l'Empereur leur a non seulement défendu de retourner
[Page 18]
M. Chamisso
de retourner en Angleterre, mais leur a forcé de prendre service contre elle, sans renvoyer personne en échange. M. Adams m m'a cité plus particulierement le chef d'escadre Karingal autre fois commandant le vaisseau le Du Quêsne, qui est actuellement dans ce moment au service de France. Alors j'ai proposé le cautionnement de votre ami à Odiham en outre de la parole d'un homme d'honneur; à celà il a répondu, qui Bonaparte ne regardait plus les cautionnements que les paroles d'honneur; et d'ailleurs que les cautionnements ne sont d'aucune considération, ne pouvant rien faire contre les cautionneurs, le bureau ne recevant jamais des amendes. et les loi
Dans ces circonstances Monsieur, j'ai cru inutile de presenter une requête formelle au Bureau; craignant de plus, qu'en demandant une chose comme impossible à être accordée, je n'affaiblisse le peu de protection que je puisse avoir auprès de lui, et dont j'aurai tout besoin si l'Isle de France devienne une possession Anglaise. Il me peine beaucoup de vous parler ce langagge dire de si tristes vérités; mais si vous voulez bien vous mettre aussi à ma place, je crois que vous penseriez comme moi sur l'inutilité d'une demande au bureau, après ces observations de M. Adams. Néanmoins, si vous le desirez encore, je presenterai votre requête avec toute la force dans toute sa force
A l'egard de la position de Mr. Andre Millet, voici ce qu'on m'a dit. Après l'arrivée du Général Rochambeau en Angleterre il a donné à pleusieurs personnes de sa suite des brevets d'un grade superieur,soit pour leur obtenir une plus forte pension, soit pour les tirer des pontons. Mais que ces promotions sont désavouées par Empereur des Francais et que ces officiers ne seraient échangés que d'apres leurs grades originaux. [indecipherable] assurément on a accorde à quelques uns, qui ont trouvé eu des fortes récommandations, d'être tirés des pontons, mais que le bureau ne veut donner les pensions à ces personnes que pour des grades inférieurs. On ne connaissait pas le cas particulier de M. Millet, mais on m'a assuré dit que les réclamations dont vous me parlez ainsi que beaucoup d'autres semblables ont sans doute été par devant le bureau et refusées Ainsi, Monsieur, je ne puis vous flatter de réussir mieux pour votre ami plus que pour vous même. Mais je puis vous dire, que tous ceux qui étaient compris dans la capitulation du Général Rochambeau sevant doivent être de suite renvoyés in France, et j'espère que M. Millet se trouve dans ce cas, et je voudrais bien que vous en etiez aussi
Je suis, Monsieur, avec consideration
Votre dévoué et affectionné tres humble serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 19]
P.S. Dès mon arrivée a Londres j'ai écrit à Mons. Ossere. J'attends sa réponse s'il a besoin de moi; et vous prie de lui presenter mes compliments, ainsi qu'aux Messieurs de Kerbalance et St. Perne. Il n'y a point de moyens à envoyer encore des letters à l'L. de France
Mrs. Flinders - Donington near Boston - Lincolnshire 7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Jan. 30. 1811
My dear Madam
I have delivered up to Samuel his note for £100, and have taken his stamp receipt for his legacy of £600. I have also signed one myself, and when I find an opportunity of sending them without the expense of postage it shall be done
My brother and I have talked over the affairs of Mr. Large's house, and he consents to its being sold, and will sign the deeds when required: we have now, therefore the consent of all the parties interested. Thus far I had written you on the 11th. last; when, on examining the will more particularly, I found that it must be the guardians, Messrs Franklin and Hursthouse, that must be the sellers, the property being divised to them in trust. Now there is no power given in the will to them to sell, during your life; and therefore I was at a loss how we were to proceed. In consequence, I stopped writing to you, to address a letter to Mr. Hursthouse, requesting him to consult his sollicitor at Wisbeach upon the means we were to take in order to give a good title, and to let me know his opinion as soon as he could. I have been was waiting for the answer when I received your letter of the 21st. last, and I am still waiting; but as both you and Mr. Large are desirous of knowing as soon as possible what is likely to be determined, I will not wait any longer before telling you my opinion
So soon as we have the approbation of the guardians to sell, and it is ascertained in what manner the title is to be made out, I would wish you to consult Mr. Dodd and Mr. Gleed, to know whether they think the house and paddock would fetch more than £600 were they advertised in the Stamford papers. If you and they think it would not, then the following proposition may be made to Mr. Larger as follows
If Mr. Large will give £600 for the house and paddock as they stand, he may ge shall may have them, and we will all sign the deeds may get such deeds made out as he judges sufficient, and we will all sign them. Henrietta not being of age till this time twelvemonth, you and myself will be guarantees that she will sign the deeds at that time. Possession to be taken so soon as the money is
[Page 20]
Mrs. Flinders Donington
money is paid. If Mr. Large will not give £600 free of all deductions and expenses, then I will advertise it for sale, as a situation where a medical man has been successfully established for sixty years past. I do by no means wish to bring in a competitor to Mr. Large, but it is incumbent upon us to do the best we can for you and the succession; and he has it in his power to prevent it by giving as much as another person will, in which case he will have the preference
If, after consulting with Mr. Dodd and Mr. Gleed, you think the proposition ought to be made, then copy off the above paragraph and shew it to Mr. Large; and when he has determined made up his mind upon it, let me know; and so soon as I have Messrs. Franklin and Hursthouse's consent, I will take the necessary steps towards the sale
With respect to the disposal employment of the money, I think the guardians had better place it in a mortgage, if a sure mortgagee can be found, who will take it and pay the income tax upon it, besides your legal interest of five per cent. If no such mortgagee can be found, it might be placed in the five Navy five per cents, which appear to give the best interest: the guardians, however, must do and decide and do this
If when I get Mr. Hursthouse's answer, there appears any thing material in it, I will write you immediately; if not, I shall wait to hear from you what Mr. Large says. In any case, be assured I shall keep this business in sight.
We have shifted our lodging to this house, where, for the same money, we have much more room. We shall have a bed for Henrietta, and when she comes to pass a month or two with us at the latter end of the winter: Miss Tyler will probably be with us at the same time
We see Samuel almost every day. He and Mrs. F. are in tolerable health, and join me in affectionate regards to yourself and my two sisters, and in remembrances to our friends at Donington. Should my uncle be with you, pray present our kind respects to him. I remain, my dear Madam
your sincere friend and affectionate son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Act with respect to the cottages as you think proper: if they can be well sold you have Samuels and my consent.
[Page 21]
Mr. Ed. Merle - French prisoner at Moreton Hampstead
No. 7 Nassau Street - Soho - à London
ce 1 Fevrier 1811
Monsieur
J'ai ?duement reçu votre lettre du 24 dernier, et j'ai été chez M. Henckel, un négociant de ma connaissance qui a une correspondence en France et lui ai parlé de votre lettre de credit signée de Monsieur Pitot, votre beau frère. Il m'a dit que personne, à ce qu'il croyait, vous ferait des avances ici sur la foi de cette lettre; mais que si vous voulez écrire à Monsieur Camescasse à Bourdeaux, - lui donner copie de la lettre de M. Pitot, et lui prier de remettre à la personne désignée par le negociant M. Henckel la somme de mille francs pour vous, ou telle moindre somme que vous désirez, qu'il fera passer cette lettre; et après réponse favorable, vous payera la somme en dépôt d'après l'échange alors existant entre les deux pays
Ainsi, Monsieur, si vous êtes déterminé à vous servir du crédit de Mons. Pitot, je vous conseille d'ecrire à M. Camescasse, exposer lui votre position, donner copie de la lettre de votre beau frère, certifier conforme par quelque Français respectable de la connaissance de M. C. ou par l'agent des prisonniers à votre ville, et le prier de mettre en dépôt pour votre usage la somme de mille francs, chez telle personne qui lui sera désignée. Cette lettre vous m'enverrez décachetée sous envelope à l'adresse ci-dessus, et je tâcherai de faire le reste pour votre avantage. Vous aurez soin de ne mettre rien dans votre lettre, soit à M. Camescasse, soit à moi, qui pourrait déplaire au gouvernement; et il faut que vous me l'envoyez par la voie du Transport Board, ce qui est la seule voie régulière et mepargnera les frais de poste
A l'égard des envoies à faire pour l'Isle de France, je crois que nous en aurons des moyens bientôt; mais lorsque cette époque arrive, j'ai de l'espoir à vous obtenir la liberté d'y aller; au moins je ferai tout mon possible à cet égard. Nous aurons Le printemps viendra bientôt, et j'espère qu 'alors vous vous porterez mieux, Tenez votre coeur bon, et soyez persuadé qui je suis avec un véritable intérêt, votre serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
Si le moyen que je vous propose pour obtenir de l'argent, nous manque après tout; je serais [indecipherable] vous [indecipherable] des avances par fois, jusqu'au concurrent de la lettre de crédit de M. Pitot, laquelle, dans ce cas, vous me ferez passer
[Page 22]
Commissioner Shield - Cape of Good Hope
London, 7 Nassau Street Soho
Feb. 1. 1811
My dear Sir
We had a favourable passage home of two months in the Olympia, and Mr. Taylor had the good fortune to capture a tolerably rich brig from the Isle of France. My reception at the Admiralty was flattering, and I found that post rank had been given me so soon as my release was known in England, which it had been about a month before we arrived by means of the Sarah Christiana. On seeing Mr. Yorke he had the goodness to date it my commission back to the day on which he entered upon his office, which was all he could do; he allowed me, also moreover, to present a memorial to the King in Council, to obtain my rank from the time I should have arrived been in England, had I not been unjustly detained in the Isle of France; and had if His Majestys' been then had then been in the execution of his functions, I think I should have obtained it, but the affair has now lain cooling so long, that there seems but little to hope. The prince will take upon him the regen temporary regency in a few days, and soon afterwards I mean to try the fortune of my memorial
After I had got through the leading points of my business and executed my commissions I went down into the country with Mrs. Flinders (whom I had found in London) to make a tour amongst our friends and arrange family affairs; and this absence has prevented me from the pleasure of writing to you sooner, which I had intended. The admiralty have ordered the publication of my voyage, and will pay all the expenses of engraving the charts, views and subjects of natural history. They wish it should be written by me, and I am now fixed here in town for that purpose, and probably shall be for two years to come, for the work is likely to occupy me during that time; so that my parole not to serve against the French during the war, does not, as yet, do me any injury; thou the admiralty has, however, written a letter through the Transport Board to the French government to have it done away, and to obtain the log book that was kept from me, but to which as yet no answer is yet received.
I do not talk to you upon public news, knowing that you will learn every thing from the papers that I could say; nor do I speak upon the disasters at the I. of France, which I hope will be soon repaired by the capture of that island if it is not already done. I hope that you with Mrs. and Miss Shield continue to enjoy your health; et que Mademoiselle n'oublie pas de parler Français le plus souvent possible, [indecipherable woed] celà etant le meilleur moyen pour bien apprendre cette jolie langue. I beg my respects and friendly compliments may be made acceptable to them. I also request you will to present my respectful
[Page 23]
compliments to my Lord Caledon, and to Mr. and Mrs. Alexander, whom I think of with esteem. My compliments, if you please, to Mr. Bird and his family, and to Mr. and Mrs. Johnston.
I am, my dear Sir, your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Nothing has yet been done in captain Bligh's extraordinary business, from the want of kingly authority. He has, however, tried a lieutenant by a court-martial, whom he had kept under arrest for two years, but who has been fully acquitted. May I beg of you to give the inclosed according to their addresses, and to send the letters packet for Bourbon by the first opportunity
Mr. John DeWitt - Strand Street - Cape Town
London, 7 Nassau Street - Soho
Feb. 2. 1811
Dear Sir
I find by the papers that there has been sad work at the Isle of France, and that the loss of our frigates there has prevented you from sending the troops at the time proposed. All this, however, and much more, you know much better than I, and therefore I shall rather talk to you of what has occurred to myself, which I certainly know much better than you will probably be new to you.
We were two months in reaching England in the Olympia. Mr. Taylor took a brig from the Isle of France, near the Cape Verd Island, which will give him £1200 or £1500, for she got into the Spithead the same day we did, although separated from us a month before. In the Channel we had exceedingly thick and blowing weather, and escaped shipwreck upon the Caskets only by getting a transient sight of the sun at noon. The admiralty received me better than I could have expected. They had made me a post-captain a month previously to my arrival, at which time they had heard of my liberation from the I. of France; and when I saw Mr. Yorke, the first lord, he put me on the list as far back as to the day of his entering into office, which was all that he could do without an order from the King in Council. I have a memorial in hand, praying to get my rank from 1804, but the unfortunate state of His Majestys' health, had prevented its being given in, and will I fear be the cause of my obtaining nothing more than I have now got, though everybody acknowledges the justice of my claim
[Page 24]
Mr. DeWitt
I believe you know, that I had been obliged to sign a parole not to serve against the French during the war. The admiralty has written over to the French government to get this parole done away, and to obtain back one of my journals which was kept from me; but as yet no answer has been received. Had it not been for this parole, and an employment I have in hand, it is probable I should have had a frigate and been out at the Isle of France before this time. This employment is to write an account of my late voyage of discovery, and for which the admiralty will pay the expenses of engraving all the charts, views, and subjects of natural history. Before commencing I made a tour into the north of England amongst my friends, and to arrange family affairs, and being now returned to town, I am setting to work. This tour has prevented me from writing to you before sooner
In a few days the Prince is to take upon him the regency; but as it is expected His Majesty will soon be able to reassume his royal functions, it is thought there will be no immediate change in the ministry, and this I very much wish; for I can scarcely hope that another admiralty will be so favourable to me as this is
Adieu, my dear Sir; pray offer my respects and kind compliments to Mrs. DeWitt, and believe me to be very sincerely
your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thos. Pitot - merchant - Isle of France
London 7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Feb. 2. 1811
My dear friend
Inclosed is a letter from admiral Linois, which I send to Bourbon for the first occasion in hopes that some means may be found of transmitting it to you. I add a few words to say, that I have seen at Odiam on parole Messieurs Ossere, Kerbalance, St. Perne and Chamisso to whom I have executed all my commissions. I have sent correspondence with Ed. Merle [indecipherable]
at Moreton Hampstead [indecipherable] he has given me an order upon you for 240 francs. I shall get him more money, and if possible his liberty so soon as possible, as also the freedom your island becomes English with that of all the prisoners belonging to the I. of France so soon as it becomes English. I have got my post rank from May 1810, and am going to write an account of my late voyage and imprisonment, at the desire and under the protection of the admiralty. I am fixed here with Mrs. Flinders for, I believe, two years; but as I do not call this writing to you, I conclude until a favourable opportunity offers with best regards to all my kind friends, and the assurance of being ever, the most affectionate of yours friends
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I have read the first volume of Peron. The Moniteurs account of the encroachments upon my discoveries was correct: there are no charts, or is the second vol. yet published that we know of.
[Page 25]
Mr. Charles Desbassayns - Rivière des Pluies near St. Denis - Isle Bourbon
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Feb. 2. 1811
My dear friend
I wrote you twice from the Cape, and proceed to give you the rest of my history up to this time. I did not leave the Cape until Aug. 28th. in the Olympia - cutter. On the passage she took the brig Atalunte from Mauritius, and we reached Portsmouth Oct. 24. At the admiralty, I was asked many questions concerning the probability of success to be expected from the expedition against the I. of France of which, as it had been formed without the knowledge of this government, no great hopes had been formed from it: nothing was I encouraged them to expect a successful issue, and I hope that before May next it will be realised.
I had been made post captain about a month before my arrival, it having been then known in England, that I was at liberty. This promotion I got antidated to May 7. 1810, and it would have gone further back, had the present admiralty been in office before the day above mentioned. I have some faint hope of procuring an anti-date to 1806, but I fear that the tyranny exercised in keeping me at Mauritius will prove to be followed by a loss to me of six years post rank, an incalculable injury to a military man.
I had the extreme good fortune to find Mrs. Flinders in London, which I owe to the intelligence of my liberty having preceded my arrival by a month. I need not describe to you our meeting after near ten years absence; suffice it to say that my happiness since has been such, that I have been gaining flesh ever since. One of my first cases was to get Ed. Ossere, Mad. Curtats' nephew, out of the prison ship where he had been so long kept, and to place him at Odiam in Hampshire, where several young men from the Isle of France were kept on parole. I went down there, got him properly clothed and pensioned, and delivered letters and money to young Kerbalance and St. Perne, and to a Mr. Chamisso, to whose friendly [indecipherable] care I recommended the poor unfortunate Ossere
Having settled my leading concerns in town, I went into the north of England to make a tour amongst my friends, whom I found generally well, but sadly diminished in number. The death of my poor father, and two uncles and an aunt, with that of my wife's father-in-law, gave me much to do in arranging my family affairs; on the other hand I found one of my young sisters, and my cousin Henrietta married. It is not long since I came back to London, or your would have heard from me before
The admiralty having decided that my late an account of my late voyage and imprisonment should be published, I am now fixed in London for the purpose of writing it, and shall probably so remain employed for two years. Upon the whole, although I have not obtained every thing that I think myself entitled to, yet
[Page 26]
to, yet upon the whole I have receive more patronage than I could had dared to expect, considering that both my voyages and myself were strangers to the present people in power.
Captain Parkinson, who bought home Colonel Keating's despatches from Bourbon, was a passenger with me in the Olympia from the Cape. He gratified me much with an account of the consideration in which you were held by your new government, and the attention paid to your recommendation of such of the inhabitants as were worthy of notice. I most sincerely hope that the Isle of France will be soon united to you, if it is not already, I feel for the cruel separation of my good and that my amiable friend Madame Desbassayns from her family, during the intermediate time will soon have an unterrrupted communication with our dear friends there
M. Péron, naturalist in Baudin's expedition, published in 1807 the first volume of the account of their voyage; wherein he takes possession is taken of all my discoveries on the south coast of Australia, as having been made by them; pretending, that I had been driven off and had not seen those parts, although it was I who gave them information of the principal parts events, when we met on the south coast + All this, and much more I shall have to set write right. An application has been made by the admiralty to the French government to exonerate me from the parole I was obliged to give in the Isle of France, and to get back the volume of my log book which was detained by general DeCaen; but, as yet, no answer has been made to these demands, and possibly none will.
With respect to my money concerns in Bourbon, I beg of you to go on just as before, replacing the whole sum every year in such manner as you judge to be the most secure, pro and profitable, and at the same time fair for both parties. When you write, and I hope it will not be long before I hear from you, pray mention how you have and are likely to go on in this respect under the present government. Direct Capt. M. Flinders at Mr. Standerts 3 Cliffords' Inn London
Inclosed is a letter for my friend Thomy Pitot, which I will thank you to send by the first good fair opportunity; but as I wait yet for a good opportunity occasion of writing to all my friends in the Isle of France, I beg, should you have an opportunity, to tell Madame D'Arifat the principal contents of this, and to assure her and my fr hers of my lasting affection and friendship. - I remain, my dear friend Charles, most sincerely and affectionately
Your friend
Mattw. Flinders
+ No charts of their voyage have been yet published yet of this voy, and some people here think, that they wait to see mine first; that after robbing me of the honour of a first discoverer, they may also pilfer me of the details; indeed it appears extraordinary, that Peron does not complete his account, and that no naut charts or nautical details should yet have been given, now so many years after their arrival in France.
[Page 27]
7 Nassau Street - Soho - Feb. 18. 1811
My dear Mother
I duly received your letter, and after due mature consideration of its contents, am of the opinion, that the following final proposition should be made to Mr. Large
If he will give £550 for it the house etc. at Lady next day, that he should have them; upon the condition, that he will not put us to the expense of a bond about the signature of Henrietta, but either pay the expense of the bond himself, or take her word, with yours and mine for guarantees, that she will sign the deed on her coming of age, if she lives. Or, if he likes it better, that he should acknowledge before three witnesses of your chusing, that he will give £550 for them, at the execution of the deeds, and will pay £5 percent from Lady day next to one that [indecipherable] from Lady day next to the time of the execution of the deeds, when the principal will, of course, be paid. On these either of these conditions, if you approve of it, he may get the deeds made out we will all sign them; on this being begun and he may enter at Lady day next, and begin upon such alterations and repairs as he thinks proper
But if Mr. Large refuses to give £550, & to agree to either one of the above propositions about Henrietta's signature then let me know, immediately and I will immediately have it advertised in the Stamford and in a London paper; wording the advertisement in such a way as is just and right; for, so far as my opinion goes, I would not let the house and paddock go for a farthing less than £550, clear of every expense; and I think it would fetch £600 if put up to Auction.
As to Mr. Large having given £280 for the business, that is not correct. £100 of it was for value received in the drugs and fixtures in the shop. He has now been eight years established, and it is his own fault if he is not well established; besides, if the house and appurtenances are worth £550 or £600 to another person, should surely they must be worth still more to him
Having said thus much, I would wish you to come to the point as soon as possible; and if Mr. L. agrees, then write to inform Mr. Franklin and Mr. Hursthouse of it
I could wish Henrietta to take the opportunity of coming up in the coach, any time between the 20th. and last of April, that she can come under the care of Mr. Pearson or any steady person in whom you have confidence We shall be ready to receive her by that time, as well as we are able
Mrs. Flinders joins me in kind love and to all friends, and I remain dear Madam, your affectionate friend and son in law M.F.
P.S. Do not fail to inform me if you find yourself in any want. I have not yet spoken to Willingham about the £40. I wait for a letter from Jamaica. I will send the receipts by Mr. Shilcock
[Page 28]
Mr. Desforge Baudouin, French prisoner at Peebles - Scotland
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
le 10 Fevr. 10 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
A mon retour de la campagne, j'ou reçu votre lettre du 2 Janvier, mais point celle que vous me marquez avoir envoié par M. Charles Williams. Il m'a fait grand plaisir de savoir, que vous vous trouviez bien dans votre situation actuelle; et autant plus, en ce que je n'ose pas vous flatter d'un retour tres prochain dans votre patrie; soyez assuré, cependant, qui si des circonstances favorables se présentent, je ne vous perdrez pas de vue. Nous savez, sans doute la prise de l'Isle de France. Je viens de reçevoir deux lettres de mon ami Thomy Pitot, de nature bien différents. Dans La première du mois de [indecipherable word] est pleine de vantades [indecipherable]Cet evenement il me dit De la prise de Bourbon "Cet évènement malheureux pour nous, et si deshonorant pour cette isle, qui s'est rendu a l'ennemi presque sans resistance il dit.ce desastre qui semblait devoir nous abattre, nous a donné une nouvelle energie nouvelle, et nous a fait prendre la resolution de relever l'honneur du pavillon Français, humilié dans nos mers par une aussi honteuse capitulation. Tous les particuliers sont en armes, et du matin au soir, s'exercent à tirer à la cible sur de malheureux [indecipherable] de bois qui se trouvent chaque soir criblés de balles, en attendant que leurs redoutables modeles viennent en tater a leur tour." Après avoir racconté la prise de nos frigates "Joignez à ces prisonniers dit-il les 1200 hommes ou environ, tant des frégates que des troupes de débarquement destinés à inquiéter nos côtes, et jugez, mon ami, tout l'embarras que nous causent ces [indecipherable]. Joignez y encore deux ou trois cents hommes que nous avions déja; joignez y encore quatre ou cinq cents autres prisonniers que nous avons faits depuis, et jugez encore une fois tout notre embarras"! Ce n'est pas qu'il ne s'y joigne pourtant quelques dédommagements; d'abord etc.
Dans sa seconde lettre dattée le 7 Xbre, il me dit "une force considérable expédiée de toutes les parties de l'Inde, nous a attaquées et pris presque sans resistance". - maintenant notre ville est pleine de figures nouvelles dont nous n'avons, cependant, pas encore au lieu de nous plaindre. Notre port est aussi rempli des bâtiments Anglais qui nous ont versé ce deluge d'hommes". Alors il se peint luimeme, on ne peut mieux tres bien "Vous reconnaitrez à ce language, mon cher ami, votre aucun disputeur en politique. Celui dont le cour a toujours été ouvert au particulier malheureux de votre pays,
[Page 29]
pays, mais que les torts et l'oubli de sa mère patrie n'ont pu dégouter du nom Francais; aussi, mon ami, n'ai je pas me décider à voir rendre la colonie, sans faire au moins le coup de feu avec nos vanqueurs. J'etais avec mon frère Edouard et Frederic Pitot au nombre de ceux que le général à envoyés au devant de l'ennemi" Ed Il me raconte, alors, qu 'Edouard était foulé aux pieds dans la fuite, et perdu pendant trois jours, étant fait prisonnier, mais rendu à la capitulation. Il me donne cinq causes pourquoi la colonie n'a pas pu faire résistance, mais les details en sont trop longues.
Enfin, il n'y a eu que deux off La 3me. est, "la désertion totale de la presque totalite des habitants des campagnes." mais les détails en sont Enfin il n'y a eu que deux officiers de la ligne tués, et point de colons. Mlle. Brunet est mariée avec M. le capitaine Maren de l'Astrée. M. Brunet est dans le même état qu'auparavant et retourne en France avec sa fille et son gendre. J'ai cru que ces details pourraient vous intéresser, ainsi que M. Renault de St. Germain, auquel je vous prie de les communiquer. Dites lui, aussi, que dès la réception de sa lettre, je me suis rendu au Transport Board pour faire faire des enquêtes sur M. Hercouit, qui se trouve actuellement sur un vaisseau en chemin pour l'Ecosse, ou il sera sur parole, peut-être à Peebles. J'ai envoyé les papiers de M. Aldecoa à Son Excellence l'ambassadeur d'Espagne, au No. 21 Dover Street - London, avec un billet de moi; mais je n'en ai rien entendu depuis. Pour M. Paulon, je n'ose pas m'emmiscer dans cette affaire, puis qu'elle est devant le bureau
Je suis maintenant J'avais espéré obtenir la liberte pour de quelques jeunes gens nés à l'Isle de France, pour retourner dans leurs familles, mais on me fait des beaucoup difficultés la-dessus, tirés de la mauvaise conduite de quelques individus qu'on avait permis de retourner aux Indes Occidentales dans de un cas semblable; je me propose, cependant, de repeter mes efforts pour le jeune Kerbalance, St. Perne, Céré, et Merle quoique j'ai peu à espérer pour le moment d'espoir à y reussir
Adieu, mon cher Monsieur, croyez moi
Votre dévoué serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 30]
Commodore Rowley - Fladongs Hotel - Oxford Street
7 Nassau St. Soho Square
Feb. 19. 1811
Dear Sir
A few minutes after I had the pleasure of seeing you at the admiralty, I was called up to Mr. Yorke, and spoke some time to him upon the subject of my memorial to the King in Council, to obtain my rank from the time at which I should have arrived in England, had I not been unjustly detained in the Isle of France. The first lord hesitated about it, lest it might be a precedent for other future applications of a similar kind; but certainly there never has been, and I should hope never will be again, an example of an officer employed in such dangerous service, as I was, - a service unco undertaken for the general benefit of all nations, - an officer who, after shipwreck, arrived in distress at the I. of France, with his passport in his hand, being so scandelously and for so long a time ill-treated as I was. So far as precedent goes, it is in my favour; for there are many examples of officers being placed upon the list by an order of the King in Council. I begged of the first lord, that he would, before making up his mind, have the goodness to consult some officer from the I. of France, who was acquainted with the circumstances of the case; he said certainly; that he wished to have every information upon the subject, and would consult commodore Rowley upon it. He admitted, that had I returned home in 1804, and he had been in his present situation, he should have thought me entitled to promotion for the discoveries and investigations I had made in Australia; and this candid avowal brings the point to this, - that if I do not get my rank, that I now suffer in England, because I suffered so long and so unjustly in the Isle of France; a position to which I am sure commodore Rowley will not give his approbation
It may be proper to inform the commodore, that I have conversed with admiral Dornett upon the same subject. The admiral put the question upon this footing Will the board think, that you would have got your promotion on arriving in England had you not be stopped? If it does, then in common justice you ought to have it; and the admiral was good enough to promise me say, that if the question came before the board, he would give it is support, for he had always considered mine to be an extremely hard case
I know not whether the sketch of the port and town of Port Louis, and the information upon the finances and strength of the island, and the dispositions of the inhabitants, which I gave to admiral Bertie at the Cape, were of any advantage in making the dispositions, and in the attack; but I believe that every thing proved to be as I had pointed out. I mention this, that if the commodore should find, in his conversation with Mr. Yorke, The commodore best knows whether, any additional
[Page 31]
strength to my plea can be deduced from this head, that advantage may be taken of it. on this head can be brought forward with truth on their heads.
Thus, dear Sir, I have pointed out to you all the bearings of my extraordinary case and present situation, for the length of which I trust to your friendly goodness for an excuse. I am persuaded, that the first lord will favour my memorial, if the justice of it is pressed upon him; and I think, that your testimony will have the greatest weight with him.
I have the honour to be, dear Sir, with the greatest esteem
Your devoted obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Ed. Ossere French prisoner at Odiham - Hants
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
le 19 Fevrier 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Je n'ai reçu votre lettre du 11 Janvier que très peu de jours avant celle du 15 Fevrier. Je ne comprends pas votre phrase "en comprenant que la pension du mois de Decembre" Pourquoi n'avez vous pas reçu pour Janvier et Fevrier? Je vais encore deposer chez les banquiers de M. Seymour, de l'argent pour votre continuer votre pension pour le mois de Mars etc. mais si vous n'avez pas reçu pour les deux derniers mois, en expliquez le mois les causes. Je viens de voir M. Henckel, qui vous payerez les £3 que vous desirez: je lui ai montré votre dernière lettre.
J'ai trois lettres de l'Isle de France. Les familles Curtat, Pitot, Labauve, Chazal et toutes je crois, se portaient bien le 7 de Decembre dernier. Il n'y a eu de tués dans l'attaque que deux officiers de la ligne, et point de colons. M. Chazal est un ancien ami du gouverneur actuel, et se plaît beaucoup trouve très bien, je crois, dans le changement d'affaires. J'ai été au Transport Board pour tâcher d'obtenir la liberté de ces Messieurs qui appartiennent directiment à des familles respectables dans l'Isle de France, auxquelles je suis [indecipherable] d'attention et d'amitie; mais j'eprouve d'obstacles que je craigns ne pas pouvoir surmonter. Je vous recommende, ainsi qu'à Messieurs de Kerbalance et St. Perne, d'ecrire à vos familles dans l'isle, pour interceder auprès du gouverneur que vous soyez permis d'y aller et rester sur parole, ou de telle manière que lui, et le gouvernement ici trouvent bonne. Tout parait dépendre des representations du gouverneur. Envoyez vos lettres à M. Henckel, qui se charge de les faire parvenir.
Etant pressé d'affaires dans ce moment, je suis forcer de finir ici, vous assurant de mon intérêt et de tout ce que je puis faire pour vous
Votre devoué serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 32]
Mr. Ed. Merle French prisoner at Moreton - Hampstead
7 Nassua St. Soho - London
le 19 Fevrier 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Je vous ai écrit le 1st. de ce mois, relativement aux avances que vous desirez procurer sur la lettre de M. Pitot; et j'attends encore votre réponse la dessus. La cause principale de la présente est de vous recommender d'ecrire de suite à l'Isle de France à vos parents, les priant de faire des démarches auprès du governeur Anglais pour obtenir que vous alliez puissiez y aller et y rester, soit sous la caution de vos parents, sous sur parole d'honneur, ou de telle autre manière que serait fût jugée apropos par le gouverneur et par le gouvernement ici. J'ai déja fait des démarches auprès du Transport Board la-dessus, mais mon espoir de réussir est très incertain. Tout parait dépendre du gouverneur des Isles de France et de Bourbon, et de ses recommendations. Envoyez moi votre lettre, et si vous voulez votre portrait directement, à l'adresse la dessus. et je l'y ferai parvenir, pourvu qu'il n'y soit rien que sur vos affaires particulières,
Je viens de recevoir trois longues lettres de l'Isle de France. La dernière de M. Pitot est datée le 7 Decembre. Mlle. Brunet s'est mariée avec le capitaine Maren de l'Astrée. M. Brunet demeure dans le même état qu'auparavant, et retourne en France avec sa fille et son gendre pour chercher les secours du climat et de la medicine. Au reste, toutes les familles de ma connaissance y compris les Pitots, se portaient bien. Il n'y a eu point de colons tués dams l'attaque. Edouard Pitot se trouva prisonnier pendant trois jours, mais il a été rendu à la capitulation sain et sauf, à quelques meutrissures près. Les habitants de la campagne ne se sont pas battus, et d'après Thomy l'isle aurait été dans la plus grande détresse si elle eut reussi à repousser nos troupes, ce que, cependant n 'etait guère possible.
Je suis toujours, mon cher Monsieur
Votre dévoué serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 33]
To Mr Labauve- Tamarinds - Isle of France - Feb. 21. 1811
Recounting my present situation and employements; and telling him to dispose of my cattle, if he thinks it most advantageous
To Mr. Curtat - advocate - Port Louis - Isle of France - Feb. 21.
Recounting what I have done for Osserre; and giving him the option of paying to Mr. Pitot for the 19.2.6 + 80 1/2 Sp. dollars, instead of Mad. Osserre paying it. Remembrances to those friends I used to meet at his house
Mr Thos. Pitot - merchant - I. of France - Feb. 21. and 24. 1811
Some remarks on the dif. tenor of his two letters. Congratulation on our becoming countrymen. Account of Merle, and copy of my lett. to Admiralty in favour of French prisoners. My passage from the Cape and proceedings. Tour to the the country. Present employments - Remarks on Peron's book. French govts. answer to adm. letter. Expectations for my brother. To employ any money he may receive from me, to be employed as he thinks best, except in commercial speculations to France.
Madame Labauve D'Arifat - Wilhems Plains - I. of France - Feb. 25. 1911
Spoke of the anxious time she would have during the attack; and the communication with Bourbon, and career opened to her sons, by the change of government. My remembrances of each individual of the Refuge - Chess to Sophie. Braces to Marc de Aristide. Black sarcenet to her, lace tippets for Delphine and Sophie, and a work bag for the first Detailed decount of my movements on arriving. Journey to Odiham, - to the country. My mother, sisters, cousin Henny, uncle, nephews and nieces and brother. Return to town. Voyage to be written. Fix in London to write. Prevented from getting on by incidental circumstances. Remarks on Peron. Despair of obtaining my rank: may be sent out to the I. of France. Messieurs Froberville and Stuart. Remembrances to all specified friends.
The Rev ____ Minister of Ruddington near Nottingham
7 Nassau - Street - Soho - London
Feb. 26. 1811
Sir
I take liberty of writing to you to request you will have the goodness to send me some extracts from the register of the parish under your care; which register, I believe to contain documents relative to my family.
It is necessary to premise, that my great-grandfather, John Flinders, left Ruddington in or about the year 1700, to settled at settle Donington near Boston, in Lincolnshire; where my family has remained ever since. I think he was born in Ruddington about the year 1679, a year or two before or after; and I should be glad to have an extract of his baptismal register, as also of that of his father, grand-father etc. as far back
[Page 34]
The minister of Ruddington
as far back as they can be traced; and if there is any person of the family still in or near Ruddington, that can add knows any thing of the father or grandfather etc. of John Flinders above mentioned, and you will have the goodness to add such information to the extracts, I shall be much obliged feel it to be a kindness on your part.
I shall pay, with pleasure, the usual fees upon such occasions, in any manner you may appoint; and hope to be favoured with your answer as soon as convenient
I have the honour to be, with respect, Sir
Your most obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain in the Royal Navy
Advertisement
for the Morning Advertiser and the Stamford Mercury
To Medical Men and others
To be sold by Auction on Wednesday the [indecipherable] 1st. May next, unless previously disposed of by private contract 1st. day of May next, at the Red Cow Inn, Donington near Boston Lincolnshire, unless previously disposed of by private contract
Donington near Boston, Lincolnshire
To be sold by Auction on Wednesday the 1st of May next, at the Red Cow Inn, Donington, unless previously disposed of by private contract.
A house, situate near the Market Place in Donington, consisting of a parlour and shop, two bed chamb rooms, and two attics in front, a sitting room, two bed rooms, kitchen, dairy etc. at the back; with a stable and other outbuildings; a flower and kitchen garden and a paddock The whole comprising about one acre of rich land, copyhold of the manor of Wykes.
The above is part of the estate of the late Mr. M. Flinders, gent. formerly surgeon in Donington, and now in the occupation of Mr. J. H. Lange surgeon, who has notice to quit at Michaelmas next
For further particulars inquire of may be known from Mrs. E. Flinders, widow, of Donington, or of Matthew Flinders Esq. 7 Nassau Street, Soho, London
[Page 35]
The Rev. W. B. Cocker - Bunny Notts; near Loughborough
7 Nassau St. Soho. London
March 11. 1811
Sir
I am this day favoured with your obliging letter of the 9th. and beg to express how sensible I am of your politeness in making the extracts and inquiries relative to my family, and in the the manner of communicating of them. Could I have had a hope that I could have of addressing a letter to any of the Flinders' of Nottingham, with a prospect of its being received, I should have forborne to intrude further upon your kindness; but as I suspect them to be in obscure situations and that, partly from what you say, that Nottingham was the original place of residence of my family, I see no other see no present means of arriving at a knowledge of the early members of it my family, than by requesting the favour of you to transmit the subject of my inquiry to such person at Nottingham as you may judge capable of, and disposed to forward my object; whether this person may be a Flinders, or the a vicar of a church there resident at Nottingham
The essential point to me, is to ascertain the baptismal entry of John Flinders (my great-grandfather) about the year 1679; and to obtain all such extracts from the parish registers as relate to the Flinderss antecedent to that period. It may be some clue to explain, that Robert Flinders my great uncle, (baptized at Donington Feb. 21. 1719,) settled at settled at Nottingham, as a silk-stocking weaver; and probably the family at N there may be descendants from him, thought I rather think there must be a stock of the name in that town, of a pr much prior date. [These above extracts, with such information of the early members of the family as any person of the name at Nottingham may be able to give, are what I am desirous of obtaining; and if you would, Sir, have the goodness to put forward my inquiries in such way as you may judge expedient, and may be convenient to you it would add to the obligation already conferred. I must beg leave again to repeat, that any fees necessary or expenses incurred on this occasion, I shall pay with pleasure in any manner you may appoint. I have the honour to remain, Sir, with respect
your very obedt. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 36]
Mrs. Flinders - Donington near Boston - Lincolnshire
London March 12. 1811
My dear mother
I have just now received Henrietta's letter dated the 11th. and am very sorry to find your health does not remain so good as I had hoped it was from your last letter: the next from Donington will, I trust, announce that Dr. Wilson's prescriptions have been of service to you
It was a simple proceeding of Mr. Large to put us to the trouble and expense about his house of advertising his house, when the offer made to him was so fair and moderate. I have not yet made up my mind on the subject; I shall nor can I until I see what the nature of the agreement is, when it is brought to me by Mr. Gleed's agent; but certainly if we conclude the bargain upon the present terms, Mr. Large must pay the expense to which he has put us for the advertisements, besides the £550 clear; he must and if the completion of the business is deferred until Jan. 1812, he must pay £5 per cent for upon the purchase money, from Lady-next day next to the time the principal is paid and deeds delivered. -
I think, also, that Mr. Large is wrong in not wishing to p wishing to deferring the completion, in order to save himself the expense of the bond; for until the money is paid and deeds signed and delivered, the purchase cannot be considered to be made; and suppose, in the mean time, that any person comes forward and offers £800 or a £1000 for the house and paddock; - are we then to let it them go for £550? With respect to the any agreement which it is expected I should sign, I shall certainly take good care to understand the nature of the agreement it before I put my hand to it, or advise any other person so to do. I do not like these trifling, half measures; I wish to deal fairly, openly, and directly; and the offer made to Mr. Large, at first, was certainly of that nature, and he would have acted wisely to have accepted it.
I have had an application upon the business from a Medical House of Agency, to know the terms of the purchase; and they who say, that they have many applicants who have money and are seeking for situations to fix themselves in business. I mentioned £600, but did not say that I would positively sell it for that sum. This was on Saturday
[Page 37]
Saturday, and in a day or two I may probably hear more from them. In the mean time, if any proposal exceeding £550 should be made to you, pray write me word immediately; and say at the same time whether Mr. Large will give as much; for it is my full intention that Mr. L. should have the preference, provided he will give as much as any other person: this I told him at Donington, and shall adhere to it; nor need there have been any further trouble or expense, if Mr. Large he had made the same offer before, that he now does after the advertisement; therefore, he has only to thank himself for any thing that may take place. With respect to Samuel, he was always averse to letting the property go under £600; but as he saw that I wished the offer for £550 should be made to Mr. Large, he gave his consent, although he was pleased to find it had been refused.
I wish this letter should be shown to Mr. Gleed, and to Mr. Large also, if you think proper; and I have only to add, that my brother wife and self are at this time in good health; and desire most kindly to be remembered most kindly to you and my sisters.
I remain, my dear Madam,
Your very affectionate friend
and son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I think Mr. Gleed is mistaken in supposing any fresh surrender would be necessary in case of Henrietta's death before coming of age, should the bargain be completed supposing the bargain was to be completed and money paid immediately. The sale must be made in the name of the trustees; and I do not see that the name of each particular person interested in the property after you, need be inserted in the body of the deed; the expression of all the parties interested, would, I conceive, be sufficient The deed might be so worded as to render this unnecessary
[Page 38]
Mr. Louis de Chamisso French prisoner at Odiham - Hants
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
March 13. 1811
Monsieur
Dès la reception de votre lettre, j'ai écrit dux Commissionaires du Transport Board, représentant que vous m'avez été recommendé par un habitant respectable de l'Isle de France, - qui je venez d'apprendre que le bureau avait donné, dernièrement, quelques permissions à des prisonniers pour aller vaquer à leurs affaires en France,- que vous en avez été étiez absent neuf ans, [indecipherable] le dix et aviez le plus pressant besoin d'y aller et pour vos affaires de famille et à cause de la mauvaise sante de Madame votre mère pour voir votre mère agée qui est mourante; - Que j'avais tout lieu de croire M. Chamisso un homme d'honneur; et je leur priais pour lui de lui donner une permission de passer en France pour quatre mois sur le premier cartel, sous de telles conditions que le bureau trouverait convenable d'exiger.
Ce matin j'ai reçu la réponse suivante on le secrétaire - general du bureau m'a répondu "that no French prisoners have been allowed to return lately to France on Parole, excepting under very particular circumstances; and that the conduct of the French government, with respect to the release of British prisoners, still continues the same. I have, therefore, to acquaint you, that they (the Commissioners) cannot allow M. Chamisso to return to France at present".
C'est une facheuse nouvelle à vous apprendre, Monsieur, et il me peine à en être le parteux; mais enfin [indecipherable] quelque' elle soit, vaut mieux [indecipherable] mais j'ai appris à l'Isle de France, que l'incertitude sur un point intéressant, est pire comme je l'ai appris à l'Isle de France qu'un défait; et j'aurai j'aimais cent mieux que l'on me dit que non une fois, et de suite, que de me laisser languir sans réponse, comme me fit ordinairement de general DeCaen pour le plupart. Je ne puis, dans ce moment que vous recommedér cette recette si usée, la patience. Je me mets dans à votre position place, et je pense que vous en avez le mal au coeur déjà; mais enfin, ildans des positions telles que la vôtre, et telle que fût la mienne pendant six ans et demie, on est bien forcé d'y revenir. toujours
Je vous prie de dire à Messieurs Osserre, Kerbalance, et St. Perne que rien a transpire encore relativement à mes démarches pour eux; et que vous me croirez être, avec considération, intérêt, Monsieur
votre très dévoué serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Il vaut mieux que vous m'adressez vos lettres me viennent par la suite, sous l un envelope à l'adresse de M. Adams
[Page 39]
Mr. Richard Gleed - Attorney - Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
London March 21. 1811
Dear Sir
I just now receive your letter of the 19th. and have to inform you, relative to the messuage and premises in tenure of Mr. Large, that neither my brother or myself are disposed to sign any agreement; from the difficulties and objections that often arise at the completion of agreements, and which not unfrequently bring on a suits in chancery.
Since my mother-in-law has been induced to withdraw the advertisement, I consent for my brother and self that Mr. Large shall have the messuage and premises for the sum of £552 clear of every kind of expense (including £2 for advertisements which he must pay to which expense he has put me), provided the business is completed immediately; that is, that the deeds be made out and signed, with a bond (if Mr. L. wishes it) for the signature from my mother and self for the signature of my sister Henrietta when of age, if living be made out and signed; and that on the delivery of these, the money be paid on delivery. If, however, the conveyance and bond may can not be completed by Lady-day next; it should be inserted in the deed, that Mr. L. will must agree to pay £5 per cent per annum, over and above the purchase money, from the said Lady-day to the day of the delivery of the deed and payment of the principal. As Mr. L. will remain in possession during this time, there can be no objection, I conceive, to this clause, nor I hope indeed to any part of what I here propose.
Should Mr. Large, however, make any further objection to these terms, from any of which I do not intend to depart I must again advertise it for sale by auction some time before Michaelmas, at which time he has notice to quit. I beg if you will shew this letter to my mother-in-law and to Mr. Large; and that you will believe me, with compliments to Mrs. Gleed, to be dear Sir
yours very truly
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 40]
Mons. Ed. Merle - French prisoner Moreton Hampstead - Devonshire
7 Nassau St. Soho - le 24 Mars 1811
Monsieur
J'ai reçu votre lettre du 16 Mars, et j'etais surpris de n'y voir aucune mention d'une lettre qui je vous avoir écrit le 19 Fevrier; et dans laquelle je vous avais marquai la reception des lettres de l'Isle de France, et que toute votre famille se portait bien le 7 Décembre dernier; Mons. Brunet restait dans le même facheux état, et allait accompagner sa fille (qui s'est mariée avec le capitaine Maren de l'Astrée) en France, et où il doit y être dans ce moment. Je vous priai dans ette lettre d'écrire à vos parents pour faire des démarches auprès du nouveau gouverneur pour votre liberté, dans la crainte de ce que j'ai écrit à l'Amirauté pour vous ne réussît pas. Il s'agit dans ce moment si on laisserait aller dans leur patrie tous les naturels des deux isles, et j'en ai quelqu'espoir pour vous; mais je vous recommende d'écrire à Mons. Pitot, et à m'envoyer de suite votre lettre sous l'envelope de M. Adams du Transport Office; il y aura une bonne occasion, sour dix jours, pour la faire passer aux isles
Sur ce que vous m'avez dit au sujet de votre échange, j'ai été au Transport Office; et M. Adams m'a dit promis qu 'on ferait de suite un examen dans ce qui le concerne; je lui ai dit que, cependant, vous aimiez mieux aller aux isles qu'en France, si celà pourrait se faire.
Au sujet de l'argent sur le crédit de M. Pitot, votre lettre à M. Camescasse n'est pas trouvée suffisante par M. Henckel. Envoyez moi votre lettre de credit, avec une lettre pour M. C. le priant de vous faire passer un ordre pour le montant en argent d'Angleterre; mais et si cela ne lui convienne pas, priez le de communiquer la lettre de crédit aux autres Messieurs qui y sont nommés. On peut placer la somme, et procurer un tel ordre sur M. Henckel, chez Designez lui Mess. Guillot et Comp. Marchands à Bourdeaux, ou chez M. I.E. Guillot Rue notre dame No. 14, à Paris où on peut se procurer un ordre sur M. Henckel - Upper Thames Street. Et attendant, Mr. Henckel veut bien vous avancer vous offre un avance de £20, en recevant de vous une lettre adressée à M. Pitot, où vous avouez la reception de dans laquelle vous reconnaitrez avoir reçu cette somme, et le priérez de rembourser M. Henckel. Si vous m'enverrez une telle lettre ouverte j'en ferai le reste. - Si vous pensez que ce £20 pourrait vous suffire, il n'y aura pas besoin d'ecrire en France, ni de m'envoyer la lettre de credit: vous en êtes le juge
Je suis toujours, Monsieur
votre dévoué serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 41]
Mr. Rob Purdie - Surgeon of H. M. S. Abercrombie - Lisbon
London 7 Nassau Street - Soho
Mar. 24. 1811
Sir
In reply to your letter of Oct. 22. I requested my brother, who was then living near you, to say that it d I did not suppose it would the distribution of the money given by the E.I. company would depend upon me, but that, so far as I had then thought upon the part that might be allotted to the surgeon, it appeared to me wholly applicable to Mr. Bell or his heirs, since he had not quitted the voyage Investigator until the objects of the voyage were supposed to be concluded or suspended.
The I have, some time since, procured the remainder of the £1200; and the distribution of it has been made according to an arrangement adopted was , chosen (from amongst several proposed) by Sir Joseph Banks, and which allots £37.13 as the last division to each gunroom officer of the Investigator. Nothing particular having been specified as to the surgeon in particular, I have endeavoured to weigh in the scales of justice, your right claim and that of Mr. Bell; and after mature consideration, I think that it should be equally divided betwixt you. Of this opinion I should have given you notice some time since, had you been in England, or had I not supposed you would soon have returned. I have now, therefore to request, that you will inform me whether it is agreeable to you to receive the half of the said £37.13; and if so, to whom you wish it to be paid. Should you decline it, the whole will be paid to Mr. Bell's heirs
I am, Sir
your obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Wm. Carr, surgeon of H. M. hired armed brig Charles - Cove of Cork
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
March 27. 1811
Dear Sir
I received your letter of the 14. instant, and have consulted with Dr. Jamison, physician of the Baltic Fleet, upon what can be done for you. As you have not passed any examination for assistant surgeon of the Navy, but little can be done in getting you forward in the service, and to get you into an hospital is next to impossible. But if you came can come over to Portsmouth or London soon, you can be placed as acting assistant surgeon in one of His Majs. ships of the Baltic fleet where you will have 5 [indecipherable] a day; and Dr. J. was good enough to say that if you arrived before they sailed (May 1) he would endeavour to
[Page 42]
Mr. Wm. Carr
take you into the Gorgon, his own hospital ship. If you arrive later, I will get you sent out to the Baltic, after the fleet.
As your cousin, I am desirous of befriending you; but whether you will succeed in the service must almost wholly depend on yourself. The Charles is no place for a young man of ability; you must want to see practice, and must study; with these, with sobriety and assiduity, and an obliging conduct you may quickly get forward, but without them, you will do little and then you may depend upon the every assistance from Dear Sir,
your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Rich. Gleed - Attorney at law - Donington near Boston - Linc.
London March 29. 1811
Dear Sir
I receive your letter of the 27th. and agreeably to your wish send an immediate answer. I am glad to see that Mr. Large now acts in the way that I wish those to do with whom I have any dealings; and to shew that I do by no means wish to be hard upon him, I will consent to the postponing the completion of the purchase until January next, and to the house being considered as his from Lady-day next, upon the conditions he proposes; viz, his lodging the sum of £55 [indecipherable] in the hands of Mr. Bar Messrs Barnards, and taking from them two undertakings (of the same tenor and date) to to pay that principal sum with £5 per cent per annum interest thereon, to me or to the vendors of the estate, in January next or at such time as Mr. Large shall consent thereto the completion of the sale. I wish for two undertakings, for fear of accident to the one to be sent to me: the second will be deposited with my mother-in-law. I have said £550, because I wish the £2 expense of advertisements to be paid my mother-in-law for me, who am that sum out of pocket. It is to be observed, that we look to Mr. Large for the £5 per cent, and he must therefore settled that matter should Messrs. B. not agree to pay that interest
It is not that I doubt Mr. Large at all, that I wish the money to be so deposited; but where there are so many interests concerned, it is necessary that every thing should be done in a the most secure way
It will be necessary to shew this letter to my mother-in-law and to Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Dodd, in order to obtaining their consents to the conditions: I think I can answer for all the other parties Indeed Indeed unless you could leave this letter with my mother I could wish you would let my sister Henrietta to take a copy of it, in order to its being shewn it to the trustees when she sees them either come to Donington. I think I can answer for the approbation of all the other parties
I remain, dear Sir
Yours very truly
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 43]
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Port Louis - I. of France March 30. 1811
Little to say in addition to my letter of Ma Feb. 21 and 24. See no obstacle to becoming a member of the R. S. when I wish it. Recommend the Society of Emulation to send papers to the R. S. which may produce a correspondence and insure the protection of the government. Sir. J. B. wishes to keep up the Bot. Garden at Pamplemousse, but waits report of governor. Thanks for reminding adm. Bertie of my log book. Surprise at meeting H. Desbassayns
Madam D'Arifat - March 30. 1811 - Little to say - M. H. Desbassayns speak of former letters and presents. Mr. Stuart
Mr. Charles Desbassayns - Bourbon - March 31. 1811
Refer to his brother for particulars of my present situation. What my income is, and expenses in London, but obliged to stay to write. Complain of no provision being made for me, but think they wish to keep me poor. Little produce of money in England, request him to point out how my income may be improved - Congratulations on a second child, and arrival of his brother Remembrances to all. Compliments to Col. Keating. No arrangements yet made for the two islands, the cause of my getting no answer to my application for the five prisoners
Hugh Hope Esq. Civil Service Calcutta March 31. 1811
Thanks for his communications. Mentioned my former letter and trunk. Account of my public concerns. Wish for the continuance of his friendsh.
Henry Alexander Esq. Cape of Good Hope - March 31. 1811
Introduction of M. Montbrun Desbassayns
The Rt. Hon. Charles Yorke - First lord of the Admiralty
London April 2. 1811
Sir
I did myself the honour of sending up my card yesterday at your audience; but having found it to be inconsistent with your arrangements to see the same officer a second time, I beg leave to state, by letter, the subject to which I was desirous of engaging a moment of your attention
During the time that my imprisonment lasted, none of those officers who served under me in the Investigator received any reward for their services in that voyage. In the course of the In the course of the years elapsed Some few have, indeed, obtained promotion for later services and by the other influence; but amongst them that remain, are two officers who certainly were not the least deserving, in whose these [indecipherable] two remaining whom I beg to recommend as deserving of promotion
[Page 44]
Rt. Hon. Ch. Yorke
The first is Lieut. S. W. Flinders who was second of the Investigator, and rendered himself conspicuously useful by fulfilling, besides his own duty, the greater part of that of the Astronomer who quitted the expedition; the second is Mr. Sherward Philip Lound, one of the young gentlemen of the quarter deck, and who has since been in all the service seen by the Warrior, these last six years and in which ship I believe he is just arrived in England: Both of them were in the India fleet, which was attacked by the French admiral Linois; and, with the rest of my officers and people, contributed essentially to the glory acquired in beating off the attacking fleet squadron
I trust that, in asking for the advancement of two one officer of each class who in consequence of a voyage of the nature of the Investigators, where promotion is the sole advantage, and so many years afterwards, that to be looked for, I shall be thought to have kept within not to have exceeded the bounds of duty prescribed to every commander, to reward those, as far as in them lies, that have served well under him
I have the honour to be, with respect and much consideration
Sir,
your most very obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
The statement requested, relative to the Isle of France, was delivered to Mr. Edgecombe, a short time since
Mr. Rashleigh of the Marquis of Ely - Mar. 31. 1811. To deliver the box in his charge to Mr. Desbassayns
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica April 2. 1811
My letter of Nov. 7 not received on Feb. 2, but continue the account of my affairs from its date. Full of employment with my affairs and charts and invitations. Request a statement of Mr. Franklin's affairs, and mention the embarrasments of that family, from the unfortunate speculations of poor Thomas. Request a particular account of his own affairs and prospects
Mrs. Flinders Donington Lincolnshire April 6. 1811 by Mr. Pearson. Her health and hope my sister will be able to come and pass two months with us at the same time with Miss Tyler: to bring her music. Hope the business of Mr. Large's house is settled: do not wish her to pay the two pounds for advertisements. To inform the guardians if the conditions are agreed to
[Page 45]
Patrick Neill Esq. Sec. to the Wernerian Nat. Hist. Society Edinburgh
7 Nassau Street Soho - London
April 8. 1811
Sir
I am favoured with your letter of the 2nd. instant, informing me of my being elected a non-resident member of the Wernerian Natural History Society of Edinburgh. In answer, I have to request you will make known to Professor Jameson, and to the Society how sensible I am of the honour done me, and that I consider so flattering a mark of distinction as doing much to compensate me for what I have had to suffer in the cause of science during my late voyage of discovery.
I have only to add my sorrow, that shipwreck and French oppression injustice have put it out of my power, at this time, to make any addition to the collection of the Society from the extensive country I was sent to explore: a future opportunity may occur, at which I hope to be more fortunate
I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Merle French prisoner at Moreton - Hampstead Devonshire
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Ce 19 Avril 1811
Monsieur
Votre lettre du 29 Mars en réponse de la mienne du 24 m'est venue, ainsi que votre derniere d'avant hier; mais je parlerai d'abord de la première. Je vous ai dit Ce n'est pas moi qui vous propose de vous faire un avance de £20, mais M. Henckel, un negociant dans la cité; et pour cela il demande préalablement une lettre ouverte adressée à M. Pitot, où vous reconnaîtrai avoir reçu cette somme; et si vous m'aviez envoyé une telle lettre vous auriez reçu l'argent déja; mais il parait que vous ne m'avez pas compris. Si vous n'aimez pas risquer votre lettre de credit, je crains que l'on ne peut rien faire en France, car on ne peut esperer Pour la lettre de credit, l'occasion de s'en servir est passée; mais comme vous avez déja reçu £10 et vous pouvez en avoir £20 autres, cela fera les trois-cinquiemes des 1000 francs pour le moins. Je ne sais pas si une autre bonne occasion pour France si presentera, mais si cela arrive, je m'en servirai pour vous, si vous voulez risquer la lettre de credit avec moi, avecaccompagnée d'une lettre pour M. Camescasse, telle que je vous ai marqué dans ma dernière. Vous ferez mieux cependant de vous contenter du £20 pour le present, et de tenir encore la lettre de credit.
[Page 46]
Mr. Merle
Au sujet de la votre du 8 dernier, Monsieur, il faut observer que si j'avais le temps de faire tout ce que vous desirez, cela vous ferait beaucoup de mal. Vous ne savez pas peut-être que les commissaires Je vous prie de penser aussi, que si tous les prisonniers auquels je m'intéresse me donnaient tant
à faire et à écrire, je n'aurais pas un moment pour mes propers affaires, et il me faudrait une petite fortune seulement pour payer les frais de poste. Soyez assuré que je ferai mon possible pour vous obtenir la permission de passer à l'Isle de France; et cela sans que vous ayez besoin de vous inquiéter; [indecipherable letter] Si je parliez beaucoup relativement à votre échange, comme vous avez désiré, je pourrais, avec beaucoup de peine, obtenir peut-être que vous soyez envoyé, non pas à Maurice, mais en France; et cela ne conviendrait, je pense, ni à vous ni à moi. A l'avenir, je vous prie de m'adresser sous l'envelope de M. Adams; et vos lettres ce qui est exigé par votre parole, à ce qu'on me dit au bureau; et aussitot que vos lettres pour l'Isle de France me viennent en main, je les enverrai par la première occasion. Si je reçoise de nouvelles que vous interessent, ne doutez pas que je vous en ferai part aurez communication de, Monsieur
votre tres humble serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Joseph Whidbey Esq. Woolwich Dockyard
7 Nassau St. Soho -
April 13. 1811
My dear Whidbey
Your time as well as mine appears to be so fully occupied, that there is no prospect of my seeing you very soon; of this I am sorry on many accounts; and amongst others, that I am desirous of having your friendly advice upon a subject which to me is necessarily very interesting. The subject is that of It relates to my rank during my long imprisonment in the Isle of France, and the circumstances under which it now rests are as follows
On my arrival in October last, I found myself promoted to post rank about a month before. On seeing Mr. York, he promised to antidate my commission as far back as he could, and he kept it his promise by putting one on the list from May 7.1811, the day on which he entered on his office. I spoke said, that the reason of my not being put upon the list before, was a regulation in the admiralty that no officer should be promoted whilst he was a prisoner. On representing that my case (with a passport) was totally distinct from that any that had ever occurred or were likely to occur again, he agreed in the truth of this, and allowed me to hope that he would favour my petition to the King in Council for obtaining my rank from the time that I should have arrived in England
[Page 47]
had I not been made a prisoner, contrary to the law of nations. His Majesty was not then in the execution of his office, and nothing could be done; and it was so long before the Prince Regent was appointed, that I found things considerably changed. The remembrance of the peculiar hardship of my case had been a good deal effaced by succeeding events; and when I again saw Mr. Yorke, he said that it would open such a door for other applications and had such a long restrospect, that he did not think it could be done. I must, however, pay the tribute due to the candour with which he acted upon the occasion; for he allowed, that if I had arrived in England in 1804, as I had expected, and he been in his present situation. that he should have then given me promotion for the discoveries and investigations I had made; but that, although he considered it to be a hard case, he did not think he could favour my petition at this time, but before making up his mind on the subject he would consult commodore Rowley, an experienced officer, who had just returned from the Isle of France. This is now about six weeks since, and it does not appear that the commodore has been spoken to, nor have I heard any more upon the subject
Sir Joseph Banks was the principal supporter of my cause with Mr. Yorke; but when he found Mr. Y. against it, he gave it up, as a hopeless case, and with the expression of its being a very hard one.
I have spoken to several men high in rank in our service, who upon the subject; and they all agree that I ought in common justice to have my rank. Amongst these is admiral Domett, who promised me his support, if the question came before the Board. The question is indeed simply this, that since I had done what would have fairly entitled me to promotion in 1804, am ought I to lose my rank because I was detained most unjustly and cruelly six years in the Isle of France?
Such, my dear Whidbey, is the present state of this affair. I am recommended to endeavour to obtain a private audience of the Prince Regent, (through the medium either of Lord Keith or Lord Dundas) and state my case personally to His Royal Highness; and it is conceived that Mr. Yorke cannot be offended by my so doing thought I think he might by the case being brought before parliament, which has also been mentioned to me. The ordinary mode is to petition the Regent in Council, this petition is sent to the admiralty to be reported upon; and if it is done favourably, it is then laid before the Regent; but if not he hears nothing about it; and this last would indubitably be my case, unless the Prince took a personal interest in it.
Now, my dear friend, will you favour me with your candid advice as to the plan you think I should follow to obtain my rank from the time I should have arrived in England had I not been unjustly detained in the Isle of France; and you will very much oblige
your sincerely affectionate
Mattw. Flinders
It is unnecessary to say this letter is confidential
[Page 48]
Mrs. Newbold - Albion Street - Hull - 7 Nassau St. Soho - London
April 15. 1811
My dear cousin
I believe I mentioned to you at Hull, that I might find an introduction to Mr. Wilberforce useful to me, and that I might possibly ask you to obtain a letter [indecipherable] from Mr. Newbold to that effect. I now think it not improbable, that I may be obliged to have the affair of my rank as post captain brought into parliament, for the first lord of the admiralty does no longer seem disposed to favour my petition to the Prince Regent in Council, to obtain it further back than he has already given, which is May 7 last; and without his favour, there is no chance of the petition availing any thing. My object, as I believe you know, is to be put on the list of post captains from April 1. 1804, when I should have arrived in England had I not been unjustly detained in the Isle of France; and at which time, the first lord allows, he should have thought me intitled to promotion had he then been in his present situation
Now the open letter that I [indecipherable letter] of introduction general tenor of the open letter that I should be glad to have from Mr. Newbold to Mr. Wilberforce, is to the following purport, or as near to it as Mr. N. thinks proper. That he begs leave to introduce to Mr. W's notice, captain Flinders of the Royal Navy, a near relation of his wife's; and with whose services in his late voyage of discovery, and sufferings during a long and unjust imprisonment in the Isle of France, the public is not altogether unacquainted; the Quarterly and British Reviews, and other late periodical publications, having made considerable mention of them when speaking of the French voyage "aux Terres Australes". I would then wish Mr. N. to request him, in such terms as he judges proper, to assist me in obtaining the rank which is allowed, even by the Admiralty, to be my due, but which the first lord, from considerations of his own, is not disposed to give favour; for the particulars of the case, and the modes of proceeding he begs to refer Mr. W. to captain F. himself, who will be the bearer of the letter.
Such, my dear cousin, is the nearly the letter that I will thank you to ask Mr. Newbold to inclose to me as soon as convenient for Mr. Wilberforce, presenting him with my mine and Mrs. Flinders' friendly compliments at the same time, and our thanks for the ham and cheese, the last of which is really fine; what the ham is we shall know in a few days.
Pray remember us kindly to Messrs. G and R. Newbold, to Mr. Bromley's and Mr. Hollingworths families and to Mrs. Mallison; and believe me, my dear cousin
most affectionately Yours
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 49]
Mr. John Harvey Donington - Northorp near Boston - Lincolnshire
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
April 15. 1811
Sir
As your son James is now coming to an age when you will be thinking of some profession for him, and as I think judge the youths abilities, if aided by a good education, equal to any line of life that you may chuse for him, or that he may prefer, my opinion of and affection for him as my nephew, induce me to request you will be pleased to let me know what are your intentions with respect to him. I conceive it to be now time that it should be settled what he is to be, that the remaining part of his education may be directed to the proper end; and should the line of life chosen be such as that it may be in my power to assist him in getting him forward, you may be assured I will do it. I was told, that you intended him to be a farmer; and as you will doubtless give him a sufficient property to begin with, I cannot but approve of it; but hope you will send him for a couple of years to a good school first, for otherwise his abilities will always lie, as it were, under a cloud. My sole present desire is, to be informed of what are your intentions; and if you will allow it, I will when I know them, give you my opinion after knowing what they are thereon
With respect to my little niece Susan, if you can prevail upon yourself to send her to a school, it good school, it would certainly be of vast advantage to the child. I beg my love to them both
I am, Sir,
your obedt. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Frederic Edgecumbe Esq. Admiralty
7 Nassau St. Soho - April 16. 1811
Sir
The dates of the letters written by my brother Lt. S. W. Flinders relative to his court-martial, and which you have requested me to send, are Aug. 9th. and Nov. 19. 1808; but lest the letters themselves might not be easily found, I herewith inclose copies of them with the papers they contained, and also the copy of another letter which he had addressed to the then Board of Admiralty, but which he did not send for reasons which he himself explains. This last letter appears to me to elucidate many of the circumstances; and if it agrees with the minutes of the court-martial therefore, although long, I send it, with a request that you will have the goodness to lay the whole before Mr. Yorke. I am truly sorry to take up so much of the first lord's valuable time
[Page 50]
Edgecumbe Esq
time; but have so much confidence in his justice and candour as to be persuaded, that where the character of a deserving officer is at stake, Mr. Yorke will not refuse to hear what he has to say.
Lt. Flinders served with me from the year 1794 to 1803, with the exception of an interval of a few months. In the Investigator he was of the most essential service to my voyage, by taking upon himself the greater part of the duty of the astronomer who had left us; and thereby enabled me to devote my own time to the surveys of the coasts and orders harbours of Australia, and to proceed in my examinations with much more expedition and accuracy than it would have been possible for me to do without his assistance. The astronomer-royal and hydrographer of the admiralty have been were deputed by the last Board of Longitude to examine our astronomicalobservations; and their report to the next board will be, that these observations, are forming the basis of the geography of Australia, are of such importance as to merit being recalculated and published at the expense of the board; and a great part of these observations were made by Lt. Flinders; no common proof forming, I conceive, a proof of no common merit in a young officer.
After the condemnation of the Investigator and our shipwreck in the Porpoise, my officers and people went round by the way of China, and embarked for England in that fleet which was attacked by the French admiral Linois; and I believe it is generally allowed, that the success in beating off the admiral so considerable a force, was greatly owing to the presence of the activity energy of and the confidence infused by these officers and the men they respectively commanded; by infusing a degree of confidence and for which they received handsome acknowledgements for the East India Company
There is, Sir, one observation applicable to officers who embark in expeditions of discovery, which to which I would beg to obtain Mr. Yorke's particular attention. When an officer is found whose talents and inclinations are adapted to the service; he sometimes refuses to go, because he must give up all chance of advantage from prizes, or of receiving promotion, for so long as the voyage may be expected to last; and the sole inducement to forego these, leading considerations and to engage in a service exceeding all others in fatigue and danger, is the certainty of advancement on his return. This certainty has, I believe, been relied upon held out and fulfilled in expeditions which sailed on either sailed or returned in time of peace, when promotion is so difficult to be obtained; whereas I sailed, and my officers returned during a war in which promotion was never before so liberally bestowed; yet no one of my officers so far as I have been able to ascertain; has received promotion for these services in that voyage, although it has been allowed the service was well executed. I am well aware that my long imprisonment was the cause of this; but surely after so many years the many years they have lost so many years, my application in consequence must rather add strength to than diminish the justice and strength of my present application in favour of Lt. Flinders and Mr. Sherrard Philip Lound. The first of them has, since their arrival in England in 1804, served in the Hindostan, the London, Prince George, and Blood-hound, the latter wholly in the Warrior, in which ship he still is.
You expressed a wish to know the names of the officers who served under me in the Investigator; and which I here with enclose to subjoin, and I have the honour to be Sir, your very obed. humble servant Mattw. Flinders
[Page 51]
List of the Investigators Officers
Lt Robert Fowler, made commander Feb. 4. 1806
Samuel Ward Flinders, still a lieutenant
Mr. John Thistle, master, drowned; succeeded by
John Aken, left the navy to command a merchant ship
Thos. Evans Gentlemen of the quarter deck
Thos. Evans, made lieut, I believe April 12. 1805
Denis Lacy, lost returning to England
William Taylor, drowned
John Franklin, made by Sir. J. Smith, confirmed Feb. 11 1808
William Woolsey, dismissed from the Investigator
Kennet Sinclair, made lieut. about the year 1807, since dead
Thos. Bush Bell, made by admiral Bertie, confirmed Mar. 3. 1810
Sherrard Philip Lound, still a midshipman
The Rt. Hon. Charles Yorke April 18 1811
Note with Messrs Curtat and Pitots' letters from the Isle of France
James Brown Esq. 6 George Street - Endinburgh
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Sir
I have this morning received a letter from my old friend Mr. James Wiles of Jamaica, who informs me, that his son Henry is, and has sometime been, under your care; and that you are acquainted with his intention of sending him to sea into the Royal Navy under my protection.
Mr. Wiles refers the care of this undertaking for his son to me; and I therefore beg the favour of you to inform me, what has been the general tenor of Henry's education, - whether he has a decided preference to the sea service, - or has any dislike to enter into it; with such other particulars of his taste, talents, morals, and bodily constitution as you may be pleased to consider necessary to my forming a judgment of the expediency of my complying with his father's expressed wish, and as you may be pleased to communicate
Your early answer will oblige, Sir,
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 52]
Mrs. Mallison at Mrs. Temples, Saville Row, Saville Street - Hull
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
April 18. 1811
My dear Madam
You will have learned from my dear wife and our friends the state of our health and how we are going on here; consequently, that I am very much occupied, and can spare very little time to dedicate even to my friends. This, however, my dear Madam, does not prevent from thinking of or loving them the less
You are perhaps informed, that I meet with great difficulties in obtaining the reward of my services and sufferings in my late voyage; and as I conceive it possible that Mr. Wilberforce, on being informed of the circumstances, may be both able and willing to assist me, I have written to Mr. Newbold to give me a letter of introduction to him; and I think it might strengthen his wish to serve me would you write a letter to him to say, that you understand captain Flinders of the navy will be introduced to him, that I married your niece that I am related to you by marriage, and with such other circumstances as you my think proper to add; and requesting him, if by any means in his power, to assist me in obtaining wh that rank which is no more than allowed to be due to my services and sufferings
You know best what it is proper to say to Mr. Wilberforce, to induce him to take an interest in forwarding my views, and I therefore leave it to your friendly care, not doubting but you will say what is best sufficient, but not without saying too much. I would beg the favour of a line by the same post as you write to Mr. W.; and am, my dear Madam, with mine and Mrs. Flinders best respects and wishes,
Your affectionate nephew
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Job. Lound Spilsby Lincolnshire - April 21. 1811
Informing him of his sons promotion, and recommending that he should communicate it to the nobleman, his former patron, after whom his son was named
Messrs. Steele & Co. 70 Cornhill April 21. 1811. Informing them of Mr. Lound's promotion, and of the omission of my brother's name on their monthly lists.
[Page 53]
Mr. Edouard Osserre - French prisoner at Odiham - Hants
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
April 21. 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Je viens de reçevoir beaucoup de letters de l'Isle de France; parmi d'autres, une de la bonne Madame Curtat, que je vous envois, croyant vous faire un plaisir. Malheureusement je n'ai rien à vous dire encore, relativement à votre permission et à celle de vos compatriots, de retourner à l'Isle de France. Ma lettre pour à cet effet est encore dans les bureaux, attendant, je crois, qu'on se décide sur les arrangements pour les deux isles, ce que ne peut pas se retarder long temps: Il est probable, que l'on desirait avoir d'autres les dépêches qui viennent d'arriver, avant de se prononcer définitivement. Aussitôt les arrangements faits, j'aurai sans doute une réponse quelconque, et vous en saurez le contenu d'une manière efficace, comme je l'espère; cependant il faut être préparé pour à tout, et ne point être trop confiant. - Dans la lettre de M. Curtat est ce passage "Je pense que le neveu Osserre, s'il n'etait pas relâché avant votre arrivée en Angleterre, aura trouvé auprès de vous la bonne protection que vous avez promis à ma femme. Nous desirions, l'un et l'autre, qu'il vient nous joindre."
J'ai reçu la lettre sensible et obligeante de Mons. St. Perne, et je l'en remercie. Mes lettres ne parlent pas de ses parents. M. Chanvalon de Bourbon est la personne principale qui conseille le gouverneur celui dont le gouverneur prend conseil à l'Isle de France, et M. Ch. Desbassayns est Inspecteur - général à Bourbon Mr. Barbé de Marbois est président de la cour d'appel, dont M. Bayard el quelques autres ont été renvoyé et doivent être pensionnés. Les deux nations paraissent se coaliser très bien en général; et "enfin, dit-on,"nous voyons l'aurore du bonheur."
Ne m'oublie pas auprès de M. Chamisso, ni de Messrs. Kerbalance et St. Perne, dont les parents, à ce que je crois, se portaient bein au mois de Janvier dernier
Vous devez avoir reçu les £3 de M. Henckel, et continué de reçevoir avec la pension de £2 par mois; Cette dernière continuera jusqu'à ce que M. Henckel reçevra les ordres de Madame votre mere. Je suis, toujours, Mon cher Monsieur,
Votre dévoué serviteur et ami
Adressez moi, toujours, sous l'envelope de M. Adam Mattw. Flinders
[Page 54]
Mr. Ed. Merle - French prisoner at Moreton - Hampstead - Devon
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
April 26. 1811
Monsieur
Aussitôt la reception de votre lettre du 13 dernier, j'ai cherché à voir M. Henckell; mais ce n'etait qu'avant hier que je l'ai trouvé, sa demeure n'etant ordinaire étant à la campagne. Il m'a donné les £20 sur votre lettre adressée à M. Pitot, et aussi les £10 précédentes pour lesquelles vous m'aviez donné un billet à ordre; par conséquent je lui ai transféré le dit billet. Vous recevrez, avec la présente, les £20 Comme M. Henckell envoit ces papiers à l'Isle de France par la première occasion, il desire avoir un reçu tenir en main un reçu, conçu dans ces termes, à peu près, pour prevenir les accidents.
Recu de M. James Henckell (faites attention à l'ortographe du nom) la somme de trente livres sterlings, pour les quelles j'ai précédemment donné précédemment un billet à ordre de M. Flinders pour £10, et une lettre adressé à M. Pitot de l'Isle de France pour £20 en date de 13 Avril 1811
A Moreton - Hampstead Ce_ May______(Signé)______
Vous reçevrez les £20 avec la presente Il me semble nécessaire d'ecrire une copie du la dite reçu au dos de votre lettre de crédit; et si, par la suite, vous trouveriez besoin du £20 qui restent de la dite lettre, ou je vous les trouverai, ou les donnerai moi-même.
J'espère que les £20 ci-incluses, vous parviendront. J'irai moi-même porter à M. Adams cette lettre, et en même temps je ferai des enquêtes relativement à vos lettres pour l'Isle de France, qui ne me me sont pas encore venues
Je ne puis vous rien dire encore sur votre permission de partir; mais soyez persuadé, Monsieur, que je ne negligerai rien de ce qui est prudent, pour vous servir dans cette affaire. J'ai une lettre de M. Th. Pitot en date du 8 Janvier, et à cette époque toute votre famille se portait bien. M. Brunet n'est point parti n'a pas pu partir pour France, comme l'on s'attendait.
Je suis, Monsieur,
votre tres humble et dévoué serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Je vous renvois votre lettre adressée à M. Dupuy, que M. Henckell m ' a redonnée.
[Page 55]
J. Pomford Esq. Agent for prisoners at Moreton - Hampstead - Devon - for M. Joseph Caron
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
April 28. 1811
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter, inquiring after Monsieur Antoine Roux, or Rousse as I had always heard him named; and have to inform you in answer, that I was acquainted with Mr. Rousse, the associate of Mr. Dayot, and left him in good health in the middle of June last. He then commanded the brig l'Atalante and was fitting her out for a voyage to France. L'Atalante was taken by the cutter in which I returned from the Cape to England, but M. Rousse was not on board her. She was then commanded by a M. Baudouin, who informed me that M. Rousse had quitted the brig because the owners would not allow him a sufficient tonnage on his own account. L'Atalante had sailed from the I. of France in August and Mr. R. was then well.
Captain Owen left the I. of France in the same cartel that I did; and during the time we lay in Port Louis, M. Rousse occasionally came on board to see us and some other prisoners with whom he had become acquainted. I have received a letter from captain Owen since his arrival at Madras but do not find that he is yet returned to England. This, Sir, is all that I can inform you of relative to which concerns your friend; for my letters from M. Th. Pitot, which come down as late as Jan. 8th. last, do not mention his name; from which it may be concluded that nothing particular had occurred to him. I however, make no doubt, that, from M. Rousse's talents and agreeable manners, he will be well received by the British officers who now command in the island; and if he does not find any obstacles to complying with the new regulations, his stay there will in all probability, be rendered both agreeable and profitable to him
I have the honour to be, Sir
Your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. May I request of you to inform M. Ed. Merle, that if he has not already got it, he will immediately receive a letter from me inclosed a Bank of England note for £20. I have also received from the Transport Officer a letter from him addressed to M. Pitot, and dated March 27, which I will forward by the first opportunity
[Page 56]
Mr. James Inman - Royal Academy - Portsmouth
7 Nassau St. - Soho - London
April 28. 1811
Dear Sir
I have been sorry that I did not know of your occupying your present situation, when I landed at Portsmouth in October last; I should certainly have done myself the pleasure of calling upon you, for I passed by the academy in going to dine with my friend Park, the master-attendant.
I am now busily occupied in preparing for the engraver the charts made in my late voyage, for the engraver; after which I am to write the account of it for publication. I find, however, an obstacle in the loss of one of my journals, which the French general DeCaen refused to deliver up to me. This loss might be partly supplied repaired by a copy of your journal log book and observations from in the Rolla, from Port Jackson to Wreck Reef, if you would have the goodness to furnish me with it; and if it would not be giving you too much trouble, I would beg that the journal log might be continued until you had passed the parallel of 3º. south, that I might give the track of the Rolla upon my general chart, which extends to that parallel: any astronomical observations by which the situations of any places were settled until your arrival in China, would also be very acceptable. - It would also be necessary to accuracy, that I should know in the what longitude the time-keeper made Wreck-Reef Bank to lie, as also that in which it gave Macao, or any other intermediate place whose longitude is known
If a copy of your journal and astronomical observations has been delivered to the Board of Longitude or any other public board, I might be able to obtain all that is necessary from them, and thus save you the trouble. Your answer, so soon as convenient, will oblige, dear Sir
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I have a young nephew whom I should wish to place in the academy, as also the son of a friend of mine, who is destined for the navy. Would you have the goodness to say what are the requisites to getting either of them on the establishment, and what the expense of placing them there in a private situation
[Page 57]
E. Decottogon Esq. Craven Hotel - Craven Street - Strand
7 Nassau St. Soho
April 28. 1811
Dear Sir
I did myself the pleasure of calling upon you a few days since, wishing to learn whether admiral Bertie had obtained, or demanded from general DeCaen, the volume of my journal journal of my voyage of discovery concerning which I had written the admiral a letter on service at the Cape of Good Hope. I twice called upon the admiral in Conduit Street, but was not fortunate enough to see him, or could I learn any thing upon this subject. General DeCaen having now arrived in France, I should be abl The admiralty has, some time since, made an official demand of this journal from the French government; but the answer returned was, that they could say nothing upon the subject until they had heard the circumstances of my release from general DeCaen. He is now arrived in France, and I propose writing to the admiralty to request they will again claim the book; but before doing this, Mr. Barrow recommended that I should learn ascertain what steps might have been taken about it by admiral Bertie; I shall therefore be obliged by your informing me if any, and what steps measures were taken by the admiral concerning it, after the capture of the Isle of France. May I therefore beg of you to tell me upon this subject what may have come to your knowledge, and you will oblige, dear Sir
Your very humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
To I. Pond Esq. Astronomer - Royal - Greenwich
7 Nassau Street Soho
May 1. 1811
Dear Sir
In consequence of your note of the other day, I have given the my astronomical journals into the hands of Lieut. Flinders and of Mr. Crossley, and told them to consider themselves as employed by the Board of Longitude to recalculate and arrange the observations ready for publication. Mr. Crossley was desirous of knowing whether the back corrections of the lunar tables were to be used; and which certainly, if it is possible to obtain them, would certainly be I should think it advisable, in order to obtain that the observations may all the accuracy of which they are capable observations susceptible. Would you, therefore, have the goodness to ascertain whether we can obtain procure from the Observatory the distances for 1801, 2 and 3, corrected for the new equations; or if not, whether such observations can be furnished to Mr. Crossley, as will enable him to correct the moon's place during those years. In the mean time the gentle-men
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Mr. Pond
I wish to know this before putting my charts in the hands of the engraver; since it may render necessary the re-construction of the wh greater part of my charts them. In the mean time, the two gentlemen propose to go on correcting the distances for the effects of parallax and refraction; and they will afterwards be ready to compare them with the distances at Greenwich, and to ascertain all the fixed stations. They suppose, and I think so likewise, that the recalculation of the whole observations, including some of Messrs. Crossley and Inman at the Cape and Port Jackson, will occupy them fully for twelve and perhaps eighteen months
I have the honour to be am, Dear Sir
Your obed. humble servant
M.F.
P.S. Mr. Crossley has the necessary books for the work; but Lt. Flinders not having them, would be obliged to you to give him an order upon the printer for the Ephemerides of 1801, 2 and 3; and if you think it proper, for the last edition of Mendoza's tables Aug - 14
Sept - 30
Oct - 9
- 53
William Wilberforce Esq. M. P. Old Palace Yard - Westminister
7 Nassau Street - Soho May 7. 1811
Sir
I did myself the honour of calling upon you at Old Palace Yard, on Friday last, at 3 o'clock, agreeably to your appointment; but was informed that you were gone to the House; I, therefore, and not knowing when I can be permitted personally to explain to you the circumstances mentioned in the letter by my friend Mr. Newbold of Hull, I take the liberty of stating the heads of them in a letter
I went out, Sir, in command of His Majestys ship Investigator, in 1801; for the purpose of completing the discovery and examination of the coasts of the new continent Australia, formerly Terra Australis incognita; and with the implied condition of being promoted to the rank of post-captain on my return, should my labours be approved. This task I, in a considerable degree, executed; but the decay of the Investigator put a stop to my pursuits career, and I was obliged me to seek, in England, another ship. The Porpoise, in which I was returning as a passenger, was shipwrecked in the Great South Sea on a coral reef, in the night; but by undertaking a voyage of 750 miles in an open boat, I reached Port Jackson; and returning with three vessels, took off all my officers and people, who had remained 51 days on a small sand bank and sent them round by China. From hence My own course I directed my way to England in a course for the strait, which divides New Guinea from Australia, and was my shortest route. I was in a small schooner was in a small schooner of 29 tons, and had with me the charts and journals of my investigations, to be laid before the Board of Admiralty; and also my passport from the first Council of France; ordering me assistance and protection from the officers of that nation, where and whenever I might meet with them, and be in distress. This case occurred early in my passage, from the excessive leakiness of my little vessel; and I put in at the I. of France to repair her and obtain provisions. and Besides the confidence in my passport
[Page 59]
my passport, I was also, at this time (Dec. 1803) under the belief, that peace still existed. I went into the Isle of France, French port; but instead of meeting the protection and assistance of which I stood so much in need, I and my vessel was seized, my charts, books, and papers taken from me, and myself and people made close prisoners; under the pretence that I was a spy contrary to national faith, to humanity, and to the usage established towards officers employed, as I was, for the general good of all nations And this under the extraordinary pretence, that I was a spy.
During 21 months I suffered was kept confined 21 months, and suffered much, both in mind and body. At that period, all the other English prisoners were liberated; and I alone remained, to be removed into the interior of the island to wait the decision of the F. governt. there however, I was allowed to be on parole; and found many friends until, by another caprice, more fortunate for me than the first, the French general allowed me to depart the island. But this happy turn did not take place, until the sixth and a half year of my captivivity had expired; and the general and when I had become almost dead to the hope, of revisiting my country, my wi or family, or of reaping the fruit of my risks and labours
During this long and painful period, the different boards of Admiralty neglected to give me that promotion which, I humbly conceived, I had deserved; and this from a regulation, that no officer shall be promoted whilst a prisoner; founded upon the principle that he must have to pass the ordeal of a court-martial; for the loss of a ship; a a regulation which has, however, not only been occasionally broken through, but whose principle does by no means apply to my case. which does by no means apply my case. The Rt The Rt. Hon. Charles Yorke, first lord of the Admiralty, did me the justice to promote me from May 1810, when he had come into office; and allowed one to hope that he would favo which was all he could do without an order of the King in Council; and and, at the same time, he gave me to hope, that he would favour my petition for such an order to the Board, to give me rank from April 1804, when I should have arrived in England, had I not been imprisoned contrary to the national faith, to just humanity, and to the unjustly detained. The unfortunate indisposition of His Majesty prevented a petition being presented at that time; and when after several months, the Prince Regent was appointed, the first lord hesitated, or rather declined, supporting it, He, however promised to put under the plea of difficulty and inconvenience. He, however, promised to take the opinion of commodore Rowley, just then returned from the capture of the Isle of France, before making up his mind; and had the candour to allow, that had I returned at the time expected, he should have given me thought me entitled to promotion for the investigations I had made, had he then been in his present situation. This, Sir, is the present situation state of the case; and that in which it has remained for six weeks past
My object, in troubling you, Sir, with this, I fear too long, letter; is to request the advantage of your influence with His Majesty's ministers, to favour that my petition to the Prince Regent in Council, for my rank from April 1. 1804, may be supported at the Admiralty; for without that support, I am fully aware, that it is unnecessary to present any is needless. Mr. Newbold mentioned, I believe, an idea of bringing my case before the House, but this is what I do not wish, but at the last extremity of all. The hinge upon which my case turns is whether, or not, my having it is just that I should suffer in England, because I suffered so long and so unjustly in the Isle of France is a sufficient reason that I should now suffer in England by the loss of six years rank.
Mr. Newbold mentioned, I believe, an idea of bringing the subject before the House; but this is what I do not wish, except in the last extremity, if at all.
Regu I beg to request the favour of an ans your sentiments upon the subject; and that you will believe me to be, with respect and consideration, Sir
Your most obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 60]
William Wilberforce Esq. M. P. New Palace Yard Westminister
7 Nassau St. Soho May 21. 1811
Sir
I have the honour to enclose the abridged narrative of my voyage of discovery, with the account of my shipwreck, and subsequent imprisonment. Agreeably to your wish, I have selected the most material passages, by marking them with a parenthesis; but if your pressing occupations could allow you two or three hours of leisure, during the course of the following month two or three weeks, that time would be sufficient for the perusal of the entire narrative. This would be more satisfactory to me; and, I am persuaded, to you also; nor am I without hopes that you might derive some amusement from it.
I am not so particular upon the subject of keeping the narrative private, as to object make any objection to its being read to you by your confidential servant; or to any part of it being communicated to whomsoever you may judge it necessary or useful. These points, Sir, I leave submit to your judgment and discretion; and remain, with respect and consideration, Sir
Your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain Portlock - Royal Navy - Gosport Hants
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
May 31. 1811
My dear Sir
My friend Wiles of Jamaica, whom you may recollect on board the Providence, has a son whom he wishes should enter the navy; and I have been looking about for a proper school for him, preparatory to his going on board. The boy has been these last four years in Scotland, and has been learning Latin, French, Arithmetic, and some Geometry. He is about 14, and I wish him to learn geography and the principles of navigation and nautical astronomy for one or two years, but without losing his Latin or French.
Now according to the Prospectus of Dr. Burney's naval academy at Gosport, it appears to me that this is exactly the situation I want. May I therefore beg of you, my dear Sir, to tell me your opinion of this academy; and what reputation it has, particularly with respect to morality, and care in the instruction of the scholars. I have also another youngster, son of a relation of my wifes, Mr. Alderman Hollingworth of Hull whose age,
[Page 61]
acquirements, and destination, are nearly the same; and if your report is favorable, I shall propose that both should be sent to Dr. Burney; could I be assured of the proper care and attention being paid to them.
The health of Mrs. Flinders is, at this time, by no means what I could wish; but she joins me in best compliments to you and to Mrs. Portlock. Your early answer, will oblige, my dear Sir,
your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
J. Pond Esq. Astronomer Royal - Greenwich
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 5. 1811
Dear Sir
It is tomorrow, I believe, that the Board of Longitude will meet; and when, as I suppose, you and captain Hurd will make your report upon the astronomical observations made in the Investigators voyage. If the Board confirms the appointment of Lieut. Flinders and Mr. Crosley to recalculate them, previously to publication, as doubtless it will; may I beg of you to move for an order to deliver into my mine or their hands the journal and observations of Mr. Inman, who was sent out to join me as astronomer. He arrived somewhat too late; but there are some of his observations, which we shall require to complete our tables; and he tells me, that the whole are lodged with the Board of Longitude
The two gentlemen, will, as I understand, do no more than recalculate the observations and arrange them into tables. But there will be various remarks and observations to be made, upon the approximating corrections applied to the longitudes given by the chronometers, between one fixed station and another; as also upon the variations of the compass and some other topics. On these accounts, an editor and reviser of the work before it goes to the press, will be required and an inspector of the proof sheets will be required. This office I have no objection to undertake, if the Board wishes it; but if any other person, who has more leisure than I can have for two years to come, is thought more proper; I will put into that person's hands, all my observations upon, and corrections to, the chronometers; as well as those on the Variation, the manner of taking the latitude from both sides of the meridian at the same noon, upon the effect of sea and land winds on the barometer etc.
I pray you to make such use of this letter, as you may judge proper to advance the cause of science and the public service; and that you will believe me to be, dear Sir, with esteem
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 62]
James Brown Esq. 6 George Street Edinburgh
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 7. 1811
Dear Sir
I duly received the favour of your answer of April 23. last, relative to the son of our friend Wiles. Since then, I have been seeking out, and making enquiries, for a proper school in which to place young Henry, preparatory to his going to sea; but it was not until a week since, that I could meet with what would seemed to suit in all respects. The prospectus, which is enclosed, then fell into my hands; and I wrote down to my friend captain Portlock, who resides at Gosport, in order to learn what was the reputation of the school, with respect to morality and the attention paid to the boys; for of Dr. Burneys abilities, as a learned man, I was already informed. Capt. P. was ill, but Mrs. P. informed me that the school was in high reputation, in every respect, and that Dr. Burney would write me. Yesterday I received a letter from him referring me to admirals Domett, Sir J. Yorke, Sir J. Coffin, Sir Harry Burrand Neal, Lords Rous, and Holland; all of whom have had, or now have sons or relations educating there. Upon the whole, if the terms of the school do not exceed the authority you have from our friend, I think this is the best situation in the three kingdoms for young Henry, until he shall have attained the age of 15 or 16; and I shall this day propose the same thing to Mr. Alderman Hollingworth of Hull, whose son is about the same age as Henry, and is also to go to sea under my protection
I have marked, in the prospectus, such extra charges as I conceive to be necessary; and, with the clothes, the expense will amount to about £60 per annum. If there is no objection to going further, he might add, drawing, fencing, and dancing, for half a year with advantage
Dr. Burney takes only a limited number of Boarders, and wishes to know our determination in the course of a few weeks, before the few present vacancies are filled up. The school opens, after the midsummer vacation, on July 29. 1811.
I will thank you, therefore, to let me know your determination opinion as soon as you conveniently can; and if you approve, to say when and how you will send Henry to London. I will despatch him forward and with a letter to Dr. Burney, printing out the exact plan of education I wish to be followed
I remain, dear Sir,
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
I did not write to Jamaica this month; but shall the next; by which time our plan will be laid, as I hope.
[Page 63]
Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street Hull
Same date, and subject, as the last to Mr. Brown
William Pearce Esq. Admiralty
7 Nassau Street - Soho -
May 11. 1811
My dear Sir
The purpose of which I called yesterday, was to request of you to favour me with such precedents of officers being promoted out of the usual course, or of particularly by commissions being long antidated, whether by an Order of the King in Council or not, as were within your knowledge. + You will judge that, in desiring these, I have an eye to the antidating of my own post rank, back to the time when I should have arrived in England, had not a most unjust and unexampled imprisonment prevented me. The fact is, that a leading, but an independent member of the House of Commons, has taken up the hardship of my case with some degree of warmth. He has been with Mr. Yorke, but and finds him inexorable in not favouring my petition to the Prince Regent; upon but after hearing Mr. Y's reasons against giving me the rank I desire, remains firm in the opinion that I ought in justice to have it; and offers to bring the affair before the House.
Now, my dear Sir, had you been sufficiently at leisure yesterday, I wished to have consulted you upon the expediency of doing this. It might succeed, or it might not; and in either case, how far might my future prospects be thereby affected? A friend has recommended to me, to let the matter rest until the publication of my voyage, which may be about two years hence; and thinks, that probably it might then be brought forward with success. I much wish to have your friendly opinion upon the subject, and propose calling upon you today about three o'clock, in the hope you may be at leisure to give it me.
I am, my dear Sir,
your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
+ Were there one or more examples of a lieutenant or commander, who, having fought a brave action had been taken had on return from imprisonment after a brave action, and been promoted on his return from imprisonment, by a commission antidated to the time of that action, it would come more directly to the point I have in view.
[Page 64]
William Wilberforce Esq. M.P. New Palace Yard - Westminister
7 Nassau St. Soho - June 11. 1811
Sir
When I had the pleasure of seeing you yesterday, I had proposed to request the favour of your opinion as to the expediency of bringing my case before the house of commons; but the pressure of your business not affording the opportunity, I have meditated upon the subject since, and taken the advice of one or two experienced friends upon it. They are of opinion conceive, that there would be the greatest difficulty in carrying it through the house; and that, although it should it ever succeed, that that I might be eventually injured by it. This, although I conceive my cause to be that of common justice, there is but too much reason to think, would be the case; and since your good offices with Mr. Yorke have not succeeded been crowned with success, I am decided to let the matter remain until after the publication of my voyage of discovery; when the public, and perhaps a new ministry, may become sensible to the justice of my claim. I would hope, Sir, that, should at that period, should circumstances be more favourable, I should still be favoured with have the advantage of your support and assistance
I beg now, Sir, to thank you very sincerely for the interest and trouble you have taken to in forwarding my views; and which I shall not fail to represent to my friend Mr. Newbold of Hull, in the light they merit. I have the honour to remain, with high respect and esteem, Sir,
your very obliged, and obedient
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. When you shall have perused as much of my journal as you may wish, I should be glad to have it again, together with the two papers left yesterday. If there is any inconvenience in sending them, I will call for them at any time they may be ready done with
[Page 65]
Mr. Edward Osserre - French prisoner at Odiham Hants
7 Nassau St. Soho June 13. 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Peu satisfait de n'avoir pas reçu aucune réponse relativement à ma demande pour votre liberté, et celle de vos compagnons d'infortune; je me suis rendu, il y a quelques jours, à l'Amirauté, pour apprendre du secrétaire quelle etait en fut la cause. Examen fait, il parut, que ma lettre, qu'on eut envoyé au bureau du Transport, et à celui de Secrétaire d'Etat pour en avoir leur opinion la dessus avis, resta sans réponse avec ce dernier. M. Barrow m'a promis alors, de remuer l'affaire de nouveau, et de m'en donner reponse
Je viens, à l'instant, de recevoir sa lettre, qui porte, que en consequence de ma der d'après ma requête "their Lordships have directed the Transport Board to allow the persons in question to go to the Isle of France on their parole"; et dont je vous felicite, ainsi que Messiers de Kerbalance et St. Perne, de tout mon coeur
Je tâcherai d'obtenir des renseignements sur le moyen de vous trouver un passage; et si j'apprends qu'un vaisseau du Roi doit partir bientôt pour l'Isle de France, de vous procurer un passage faire aller la-dessus. Ceci ne doit pas vous empêcher chaqu'un, de faire ce qu'il peut pour lui-meme; mais surtout, soyez prudents dans vos procédes, et n'êtes pas ne gâtez point ce qui va bien à present, par trop d'empressement
J'ai quelqu'espoir que ceci n'est qu'une prelude à une permission semblable et générale pour tous les créoles des deux isles; aussitôt qu'on aura des renseignements necessaires de l'amiral Stopford qui y commande la marine actuellement; mais je ne puis pas faire des demandes particulières pour aucun autre individu. En effet, c'est poussé la complaisance bien loin de m'avoir accordé ce qu'on vient de faire
Rappelez moi, avec amitié, aux Messieurs nommés ci dessus, ainsi qu'a M. Chamisso, dont je plains le sort; et me croyez troujours, Mon cher Monsieur
Votre devoué serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
M. Dayot m'a remis trois lettres d'Odiham pour l'Isle de France; et je les ai mis sous l'envelope de M. Th. Pitot, et les ai mis elles sont en chemin.
[Page 66]
Mr Lisy de Céré, French prisoner at Wincanton- June 13. 1811
Upon the same subject as the preceding to Mr. Osserre. Inclosed is a note to Mr. Lemaestre 39 Upper Seymour - Portman Square
Mr. Ed. Merle, French prisoner at Moreton Hampstead, Devon
Same date and tenor as the two preceding letters
Captain Patton - Agent of Transports - Portsmouth
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
June 17. 1811
Sir
As a brother officer, I take the liberty of addressing you relative to five French gentlemen belonging to the Isle of France, for whom I have obtained from the Admiralty an order for their return to their friends, and whom the Transport Board permits them to go in the Cartels now lying at Portsmouth, provided they furnish themselves with provisions The names of these gentlemen are Kerbalance, St. Perne, Osserre, Merle and Céré; and their friends, who are respectable people in the Isle of France, having been civil and friendly to me during my six years imprisonment there; I have sought to do what I can to get these young men set at liberty and sent back. Might I also, Sir, take the liberty of recommending them to your assistance influence, for making arrangements with the commanders of such of the cartels as you may think proper to place them in, with respect to their provisions (or table) I have no doubt but They young men have very little money here, but they would any or all of them would be glad to make themselves useful on board; and I have no doubt but their friends would gladly pay any moderate expense. He, for whom I more particularly interest myself, is Mons. Ed. Osserre, a stout young man, who ought to be something of a seamen; and consequently able, as he is willing, to repay by his services on board the provisions he may require on board or table that may be furnished him; and I am sure, that whoever renders him, or any of the five gentlemen, service, will make to himself useful friends in the Isle of France.
If your answer, which, if convenient I would beg to receive by return of post as time presses, gives me authority, I will desire them to apply to you on their arrival at Portsmouth, to know the ship on board which they are to embark; with such further information as to their passage, as you may be pleased to give them; and in doing which you will much oblige Sir
your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 67]
James Henckell Esq. Upper Thames St. 164 - June 17. 1811 - If he can point out a mean of my procuring the money advanced to Merle & Osserre
Madame D'Arifat - Isle of France - June 17. 1811
A friendly letter, speaking of my employments and prospects; and of the five French gentlemen -
Another to Labauve, mostly similar
Mr. Curtat - Port Louis - Isle of France - 7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 19. 1811
My dear Sir
I had the satisfaction of receiving your letter of Jan. 4 about six weeks since. It was sent to me by Mr. Keene, together with several other letters from my good friends in the Isle of France
After reflecting upon the details of what was passing in the I. of France, I judged it proper to inclose your letter to the first lord of the Admirality; conceiving, that as the regulations for the government of the island were not definitively made, it might have some influence in them. It The letter was returned to me on the following day, with thanks, but no opinion or comment was given.
The opinion which seems to be entertained of Mr. F. in the island, is, I think, very similar to what is thought of him here at home, by the people in power. The goodness of his character is generally allowed, but that is not every thing required in a governor. The ministers look for firmness, probably to resist indiscrete importunity, ability to execute their orders, and to distinguish character, and economy in the administration of the finances. Now it does not appear that this last quality, makes one of the many possessed by Mr. F.; and I should not be surprised if some officer, or nobleman, unaccustomed to the Indian manner of administrating, was soon to be sent out. This, you will well understand, is communicated between ourselves with the exception of Labauve
I know that the government is waiting for the reports of admiral Stopford and Commissioner Shield, before making any determination upon what naval establishment shall be made in the island. Upon the whole, I think you are likely to have a considerable one; and this will add to the prosperity of the island. I have could say something more upon this head, was I not forbidden; and you will understand, that what I have already said is not to be spoken of publickly
With this letter you will receive a good proof, as I hope, of my having
[Page 68]
Mr. Curtat
having done everything for Osserre which I had promised, and that was in my power. I got him taken out of the prison ship on my arrival, by application to the Commissioners of the Transport Board; afterwhich I went down to Odiham, where he was placed, furnished him with money to clothe himself, and fixed for him a pension of £2 to be paid on the first of every month. My next step was to apply to the admiralty for an order to release him, and four creoles, and to allow of their return to their friends. This letter went from the Admiralty to the Transport Board for their consideration, and from thence to the Secretary of State for the colonies. and After the delay of waiting five months, I went to the Secretary of the Admiralty again upon the subject; and a few days afterwards an order was given for their release on parole. I then engaged the Transport Board to give them a passage on board the cartels, now ready to sail; and this also has been complied with; so that I hope Osserre, Kerbalance, Merle, St. Perne, and Céré, will sail in a few days; and that you will have embraced your nephew, even before receiving this letter.
I send down today £5 to Osserre to buy himself a few clothes for the voyage; and am sorry that the narrowness of my finances compared to the expense of living in London, and what I have to do for others does not allow me to do more for him send him more. I am aware that in furnishing him with money, I have acted without any authority from you; but as I have given, or indeed could give, him no more than was absolutely necessary, I doubt not of your approving it. The whole sum I shall have advanced independently of what his mother has paid is £25.2.6, which, if you approve of it, may be remitted by the first good conveyance; or otherwise paid to Mr. Th. Pitot, whom I shall request to remit every thing he may have or receive for me. I find it impossible to live in London, even in my retired way, for less than £500 per annum; and as my income is not more than half that sum, you I am somewhat put to straits. This information may be of some use to you, should you think of coming to England; and it will explain why I have been unable to furnish more money to Osserre.
The cause of my remaining in London, instead of going into the country, where the expenses would be two-fifths less, is the necessity of so doing whilst writing the account of my voyage. This now occupies all the time that I have left from the many occupations concerns of my own and for others which continually occur; and ought to occupy the whole of my time, that I might get done, and either take some more profitable employment, or retire into the country, as soon as possible.
It gave me great pleasure to hear of Madame Curtats good health, and to receive her friendly note, which I afterward sent to Osserre. Pray make present to her my affectionate remembrances and thanks; and call me to the friendly recollection of Messieurs M. Monchamp, Barbé, Carrier, and Charton. I am, my dear Sir with great esteem
your affectionate friend and servant
M.F. -
[Page 69]
Mr. Thomas Pitot - Merchant - Isle of France
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 19. 1811
My dear friend
I received yours friendly of Jan. 4, by a messenger from Mr. Keene, together with several others from my good friends in the Isle of France. It grieves me to hear that you have any cause of dissatisfaction under the English government; and I hope they it will not last long: the ministers at home, I have good reason to believe, are by this time well informed of what passes in the island
At the same time that you receive this letter, you will most probably see Edward Merle, whose liberty I have at length obtained; and also a passage for him on board one of the vessels that carried the French troops to Morlaix, and are now about to return. Poor Merle has been very impatient, and not always very considerate. He had a letter of credit from your uncle for a thousand francs, and I have got him £30 upon it, and shall advance him £10 or today shall send him the remaining £20 more, should he want it. As I do not know till tomorrow how this will be arranged, I shall mention it in a postscript and request him to send me his letter of credit, to be kept in case in accident. The first money I advanced him, was repaid me by Mr. Henckell, who will will send you Merle's notes; but for what I may now send tomorrow, I must depend upon trust to Mr. Pitot's remittance upon the receipt of which I shall destroy the letter of credit. And Now that I am upon this subject, I request you, my friend, to remit by the surest and most advantageous way you can find, all the money that may come into your hands on my account. I am obliged to live in London, whilst until the account of my voyage is published; and the expenses here are now so enormous, that my income is not more than half sufficient for me. Mr. Curtat may probably pay you £25.2.6 sterling, which I have advanced to his nephew Osserre besides some other money which his mother will pay; and should he do it, pray send it also to me as soon as you can find a good opportunity
With respect to the commerce of your island, I do not know anything that you could send advantageously to England, unless perhaps, cotton. Coffee and sugar are quite a drug; but when you hear that any considerable number of the ports on the continent are open, you may then send coffee. You will learn from the papers, that our affairs go on advantageously upon the whole, in the peninsula. After a good deal of hard fighting, the French have been driven out of Portugal; and we daily expect to hear of the taking of Badajos, and of the siege of Cadiz being raised. We have a strong fleet in the Baltic under Sir James Saumarez, but as yet all seems to be quiet in that quarter, and some little trade is still carried on. Whether Alexander and Bonaparte will continue upon good terms seems yet uncertain; but it
[Page 70]
Mr. Ed. Osserre - French prisoner Odiham Hants
June 18. 1811 - 7 Nassau St.
Mon cher Monsieur
J'ai reçu, hier, votre lettre avec celle de Messrs Kerbalance, et de St. Perne. J'espere que vous partirez sous peu de jours. J'ai écrit à l'Agent des transports à Portsmouth, le capitaine Patton, le priant de vous aider à faire vos arrangements avec les commandants des vaisseaux sur lesquels vous seriez mis; et j'espère que les services que vous pouviez rendre à bord seront accepté en payment des vivres qu'on vous fournira. Cependant, s'il faut de l'argent, vous pouvez, je crois, convenir de payer à l'Isle de France, une somme modique. J'ai dit cela au capitaine Patton, et que celui qui vous rende service sur le passage, sera sûr de se faire des amis utiles à l'Isle de France
Ainsi vous n'aurez pas besoin de grandes choses ici; et en enfin, il me serait très incommode de vous fournir beaucoup, surtout n'ayant aucune autorité de votre oncle de vous faire des avances Vous reçevrez avec celle-ci un billet inclus de £5, pour vous porter à Portsmouth et acheter ce dont vous avez un besoin absolu. Cette somme fait monter mes avances a £30.2.6; mais comme je crois M. Henckell fait me repayera les £5 de la part de Madame Osserre, il ne neste que £25.2.6. sur le compte de Monsieur Curtat
Accusez, s'il vous plait, la reception du billet. Rappelez moi au bon souvenir de votre bon oncle et tante, si mes lettres n'arrivent pas en meme temps; et me croyez toujours, mon cher Monsieur [indecipherable] en vous souhaitant un bon voyage, si je n'ai pas le temps de vous écrire encore, je vous prie de me croire, mon cher Monsieur
Votre affectionné serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
A Monsieur Kerbalance
Ne perdez pas, Monsieur, l'occasion actuelle de partir. Si vous êtes une fois mis sur le pied d'un prisonnier de France, je ne prevois pas quand vous partirez: probablem vous resterez prisonnier probablement, jusqu'à la pain. Votre affectionné serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Je vous prie de me rappeler au bon souvenir de Mr. et Mad. Kerbalance
[Page 71]
Mr Pitot continued from 70
but it appears certain, that Bernadotte does not mean to comply will all the wishes of his late master: having been adopted by the Swedish nation, he seems disposed, in return, to adopt her interests; and will avoid all interference with the war, on either side. Bonaparte seems appears to have strong designs upon the Greek Islands, the Morea, and eastern side of the Adriatic. It is here, that I suspect he means to recruit his name marine, and to form his cotton and sugar colonies. This I judge from the great efforts made to reinforce, and to form a naval and military depot at, Corfu. We have, however, taken some of his frigates and many of the transports; and perhaps, before long, Corfu will be taken itself, as Zante and Cephalonia have been. With respect to America, politics are still very uncertain: sometimes leaning towards a war with France and sometimes with England. The misguided populace there tries to hurry the government into a war with us, whilst the better informed classes, in the northern states, consider the British navy to be the sole barrier between America and Bonapartian despotism. If they are wise, they will go to war with neither, and leave off their former bullying threats, which have rendered them contemptible in the eyes of all Europe
I have just returned from the Transport Office, and find that the greater part of the vessels bound to the I. of France, sail tomorrow if the wind continues fair; but one remains behind, and with the Ranger just arrived will sail about a fortnight hence; and in these two vessels it is that my friends are to go. If the wind changes, they may go in the first vessels. The Ranger arrived only yesterday from Morlaix and the I. of France, and perhaps I shall have some letters
I am now again going to the Transport Office with my letters hoping to get them sent by the first ships. I must, therefore, conclude with requesting you to remember me kindly to all friends, particularly to the members of your good family; and believe me, my dear friend ever most affectionately and sincerely
Yours
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 72]
Mr. Edward Merle - French prisoner - Moreton Hampstead - Devon
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Monsieur June 19. 1811
J'ai reçu votre lettre du 15, par laquelle il parait que la mienne du 13. n'etait pas encore arrivée. Il y a toute apparence que vous partirez presque de suite; et ne sachant pas combien de temps il y aura pour me faire savoir vos besoins, je vous envois au hazard un billet de £20 ce qui complete votre credit sur M. Pitot; et je vous prie d'y mettre un reçu sur le dos de la lettre pour cette somme, et de me l'envoyer alors, par la voie de M. Adam. M. Pitot me remetterai, je ne doute pas, les £20 par la première bonne occasion, mais je desire garder la lettre de credit en cas d'accident
J'ai fait tous mes efforts pour vous obtenir un passage le plus convenable, et sans frais, qui n'était possible; mais peut-être aurez vous vous le trouverez nécessaire puisqu'on ne vous donne pas de vivres de promettre quelque somme modique à votre arrivée à l'Isle de France, outre vos services à bord L'agent de transport à Portsmouth, où peut-être vous vous embarquerez, est le capitaine Patton, qui [indecipherable] il y a apparence aura l'ordre de vous designer le vaisseau sur lequel vous serez mis; et peut-être aura-t-il la bonté de faire quelque'arrangement pour vous avec le capitaine
Ayant ainsi fait tout ce qui m'est possible pour vous servir, je vous souhaite un bon voyage; et un heureux rencontre avec vos amis; et je suis toujours, Monsieur
Votre très humble et devoué serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
S'il se passe encore une ou deux semaines avant que vous aurez l'ordre du Transport Board de vous rendre soit a Portsmouth, soit a Plymouth, ne soyez pas inquiet. Je veillerez toujours. Mais tenez vous prêt pour le lendemain
[Page 73]
Mr. John Flinders Mr. J. Samples - Wood Street - Meadow Platts - Nottingham
Nassau Street - London
June 20. 1811
Sir
I have been not less surprised at your letter of yesterday, than I was
I have been somewhat surprised at the contents of your letter of yesterday to find you had come up to London upon the speculation plan you did. If you had had an idea of any property likely to devolve to you, it would certainly have been wiser to have taken Mr. Cockers advice, and waited the effect of a letter; before leaving Nottingham and putting yourself to the trouble and expense of coming to London on purpose to make inquiry. In future I request you to You may, however, be assured, that if I or any other of my family had any money to dispose of, we have great abundance of relations in Lincolnshire, Flinders and others, who are in great want, neither is my family much better situated. I have myself had difficulty enough, and still have, to fight my way in the world, and you may conceive that an imprisonment of six and a half years, has not done anything to better my circumstances. I am sorry for the misfortunes that have befallen you and for your ill state of health, but do not see how you can any way look to me for paying the expenses of your ill-advised journey, which was by no means of my desiring, but entirely upon your own idea.
I conceive You did certainly take some trouble to ascertain the origin of the family from to which we appear to be both descended and for that I feel obliged, but if Mr. Cocker informs me right, and I cannot suppose otherwise, the expense you [indecipherable] was paid by Mr. Blackburn, and which I have necessarily to repay. In sending you the £1 note inclosed, I do more than I can afford give what would be of great use to several of my own relations, and more than I can afford with propriety. I hope it may be of use to you
With respect to future inquiries I have little hope of your obtaining any further information; and unless it is earlier than 1682 it is unnecessary for me to incur the expense of a post letter first
I received your letter of the 18th., requesting me to send you some money towards defraying the expenses of your journey to and from London. That journey was not undertaken on my account, but purely from an idea a notion you had too hastily taken up, of some property likely to devolve to you. I was surprised that a man of your experience, and whose means, as it appears, are very restricted, should have done so simple a thing; especially after the advice of Mr. Cocker had given, to first wait the result of a letter to me. As this journey was entirely a speculation of your own, I do by no means see that I can be called upon to pay any part of the expense. The expense you sought have [indecipherable] at [What was incurred before incurred in obtaining the information I requested of Mr. Cocker, I told that gentlemen I would willingly pay, and I understand Mr. Blackburn did pay you the expense you were put to, extracts sent me , Mr. Cocker tells me was paid to you by Mr. Blackburn, and this I have necessarily to pay again; but I neither expected or intended to pay more
[Page 74]
Mr. John Flinders
If you have taken up an idea that I or any of my family are rich, I beg you to be undeceived. I have myself had difficulties enough, and still have, to fight my way in the world, and you may conceive that an imprisonment of six years and a half, has not bettered my circumstances; but had I any thing to spare, there are several families of my relations in Lincolnshire, who are in want; and whom it is my first duty to assist, should I ever be able.
I am sorry for the misfortunes that have befallen you, and for the ill state of your health; and, although I can ill spare it, I send you a £1 note, and hope it may be of use. In return, I may expect, that if you can procure any further extracts of baptisms, marriages, or burials of the Flinders' from any of the parishes about Nottingham or Gedling, that you will do it without any other expense to me. I wish only that you should do this at your leisure, and take out such only as are older than the year 1682, in which year John Flinders, my great F grandfather, was baptized at Gedling: It is the burial, marriage, or baptism of his father, grandfather etc. that is at all interesting to me; and this solely from curiosity solely, to find out, if I can, when the first of the name came over to England from Holland or Germany, to and settled in England.
Unless you can find any extracts older than 168 I believe I have got all the extracts from the parish registers at Gedling and Ruddington; and therefore unless you can find any in other others in the parishes about Nottingham and Gedling, and those older than 1682; it is unnecessary that you should put yourself to the trouble of writing, or me to the expense of postage for, a letter.
Wishing you better health, I am, Sir
No.of note sent 77400 your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
On reconsidering the matter, I have judged it best for fear of accidents, to pay the £1 into the hands of Mr. Cocker's agents; and I pl by applying to him on his return to Bunny or Ruddington, in about a fortnight or three weeks, I have no doubt it he will give it to you; as before that time I shall write to him
[Page 75]
Lieut. J. Franklin - H. M. ship Bedford - Downs
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 20. 1811
My dear John
I duly received your letter of the 7th. dated off the Scheldt, and sincerely hope the French may give you an opportunity of distinguishing yourself; for although, as first third lieutenant, you might not get promotion directly from it, yet it would always assist much towards it.
You will receive herewith a certificate for Walter Freeman, as correct in point of date, as I am able to give without the ship's books. I hope it may be of use to him; for I fear it is all I shall be able to do for him. The captain of the ships in which he was wounded is [indecipherable letter] and in which he may last serve, are the most proper to apply for any thing advantageous to him
With respect to my accounts with your poor brother, they were very nearly square at the time we left Port Jackson. But in the Isle of France I took up two notes of yours: One, for a trunk, to Mr. Aken of £1.11.6 and one, for money, to Elder of £3.10. On the final balance there was due to me £4.11, which you can desire Standert to place of the account, which was given to Willingham in Nov. last at his desire request there remained due to me £4.11, which you can desire Standert to place to my account, when convenient
Miss Tyler and Henrietta are still with us; but my sister will return to Lincolnshire at the end of this months and Miss T. will probably leave us soon afterwards. I endeavour to amuse them as well as my time will allow, but I am really so occupied, what with my own and other people's affairs, both public and private, besides writing the account of my voyage, that I scarcely know which way to turn myself. At the same time that I applied for the promotion of Sherrard Lound, I also requested tha it for my brother; but in this last I was unable to succeed, and the same with the antedating of my own rank after much unavailing trouble: which I fear is now totally lost. - Samuel is living in London, being employed by the Board of Longitude, with Mr. Crosley, to recalculate all the Investigator's observations, previously to their being published. My mother goes I believe tomorrow as we learned this morning from Enderly Mrs. Dod at Enderly, to Ingoldmells tomorrow for the benefit of the sea air: her health is better than it has been; but that of your sister Henrietta Isabella is, I fear, very indifferent.
Mrs. Flinders has, generally, but indifferent health, but is pretty well to day. She and Henrietta join in kind remembrances with, my dear John your affectionate friend and
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
This is to certify that Walter Freeman, came into
H.M. ship Investigator then under my
command from the Jamaica, and served me in the beginning of 1801 and served until July 1803, when
he was discharged into the Porpoise, as will appear
by the Investigator's books. And that during the time
he was under my command, he behaved himself diligently
and faithfully and to my satisfaction. Given under my hand
this 20 June 1811 at London
[Page 76]
Dr. Burney - Gosport - Hants 7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
June 24. 1811
Sir
I had the honour of receiving your letter, relative to the two young gentlemen I wished to have placed in your academy; and wrote immediately to their friends at Hull and Edinburgh. They now authorize me to engage two of your vacancies for Mr. Andrew Hollingworth and Mr. Henry Miles; on the terms mentioned in your prospectus. They and who will be down at Gosport on the opening of the academy after the midsummer vacation. As these young men are to enter the navy under my protection, I will take the liberty, when they go down, of pointing out those branches of study to which I should desire their attention may be more particularly directed
Should I not hear anything from you in the course of two or three days, I shall consider the matter to be so far agreed upon, and inform the friends of the young men accordingly
I am, Sir,
your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mons. Joseph Ribet - French prisoner - Moreton - Hampstead - Devon
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
June 25. 1811
Dear Monsieur
J'ai l'honneur de votre lettre du 18 dernier, et suis chagriné qu'il m'est impossible, dans ce moment, de vous aider à obtenir votre liberté. Ce n'est qu'après six mois de peines, qui j'ai pu obtenir le renvoi à l'Isle de France de Messeurs Merle, Céré, Osserre, St. Perne, et Kerbalance, et encore suis-je tres heureux d'avoir enfin reussi. Si je
retourne reviendrais à la charge, non seulement je manquerais mon coup, mais je serais considéré comme un importun; et perdrais l'espoir de pouvoir jamais servir un de ses amis qui [indecipherable] si jamais un de ces amis auxquels je suis redevable de tant de services à l'Isle de France, se trouvait prisonniers, il serait alors, hors de mon pouvoir de lui être utile. Ainsi je ne puis, Monsieur, vous donner d'autre l'espoir dans ce moment, que quand le gouvernement de l'Isle de France sera bien arrangé, que l'on permettra, peut-être, à tous les créoles d'y retourner. J'ai deja mis cette idée en avant, et je l'aiderai de tout mon pouvoir, mais il faut le faire par des voies indirectes. Je vous dirai aussi, que si le hazard me presente une occasion de vous etre utile, je ne manquerai pas de m'en servir.
Je vous prie Monsieur, que si vous desirez m'ecrire encore
[Page 77]
que vous le ferez par la voie du Transport Office. Les frais de poste, de tant de lettres que je reçois de presque toutes les parties de l'Angleterre, et même d'Ecosse, me deviennent extremement onéreux; et toutes ces lettres sont pour demander des services qu 'il [indecipherable] sont hors de mon pouvoir qu'il m'est impossible de rendre.
J'ai l'honneur d'etre Monsieur,
Votre très humble et obéissant serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
John Newbold Esq. Albion Street - Hull
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
June 28. 1811
My dear Sir
The affair concerning which I requested your influence with Mr. Wilberforce is now terminated; and though it is by no means to my satisfaction, I think myself bound in justice to Mr. W. to say, that he has done everything that I believe was in his power. He twice went to Mr. Yorke to obtain from him the admiralty the necessary support to my proposed petition to the Prince Regent in Council; and when he found Mr. Yorke was not to be moved from his determination against it, he offered to bring the question before the House of Commons, and to obtain as much for it the support for it of his friends. This, however, on due consideration of all probable consequences, and with the advice of friends, I have declined; and mean to say no more, unless perhaps on a change of ministry, until my voyage shall be published. May I beg of you to communicate I have not I have, in consequence, not thought it necessary to delivered the your letter to Mr. Stanniforth
May I beg of you to communicate the contents of this letter to Mrs. Mallison, and to remember Mrs. Flinders and myself most kindly to her and to Mrs. Newbold; and that you will believe me to be, I remain, my dear Sir,
Your obliged and affectionate
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
My sister Henrietta leaves us for Donington next week. Miss Tyler has been long talking of writing to Mrs. Newbold; but desires me to say, that she defers it until after having been to Vauxhall
[Page 78]
James Brown Esq. Gattonside House - Melrose near Berwick
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
July 1. 1811
Dear Sir
In consequence of your letter of the 20th. last, I wrote to Dr. Burney to engage two of his vacancies; one for Henry Wiles and the other for Andrew Hollingworth, to commence immediately after the midsummer vacation Mr. Alderman Hollingworth of Abion Street Hull, has requested me to say, that as these two young gentleman are both nearly entering into a world somewhat strange to them, and as they are likely both to go to sea together, if you could send Henry to Hull about the 20th. of July, he would be glad to receive him into his house for a week, that the young men might make acquaintance together; and he will afterwards conduct them both to London, and afterwards to Gosport. This I propose under the idea that you may not find it convenient to accompany Henry to Gosport or London, yourself; or perhaps have any confidential person to send so far with him; and in either that case I think this will be an eligible plan
I will, therefore, trouble you to let me know whether this plan meets your approbation; or whether and if so, to address a line to Mr. Hollingworth to say when, and at what time, he may expect Henry. Coaches go from York to Hull, three or four times a day. Should there be any other plan which you prefer, I shall be glad to be informed in time
I think it will be best, on all accounts, that Andr Henry should remain at Gosport during the vacations, and this is Mr. H's intention with respect to his son. When they go down from hence I shall point out to Dr. Burney the particular plan lines of study I wish both to pursue; and I hope that, in the course of a twelvemonth, they will both be ready to be, I am I shall be able to, place them in some ship where they can remain until I get a command myself.
I am sorry for what you tell me, of the circumstances of our friend Wiles: I had hoped they had been better. I shall, in consequence, endeavour to abridge as much as can well be done, the time of remaining at the academy; for on going to sea, I do not expect he will cost his father more than £20 or £30 a year, after the first outfit
I shall write to Mr. Wiles by the next packet, and inform him of the plan laid down for his son. I have the honour to remain, dear Sir,
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
You will be good enough to mention where Dr. Burney is to apply at the proper times; and what pocket money you wish Henry to have: I should recommend a shilling per week as mentioned in the prospectus
[Page 79]
P.S. I fear that for one month Henry's schooling will have to be paid for in two places, but I see no remedy for it, I could not expect Dr. Burney to receive him for a broken time, unless the whole quarter was paid for. Pray mention what pocket money you wish Henry to receive, with such other information as as it may be necessary to give Dr. Burney
Jams Wiles Esq. Liguania Jamaica
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
July 2. 1811
My dear friend
I received your friendly and very acceptable letter of Feb. 20. a fortnight after despatching mine of the 2 of that month; and the same day I wrote to Mr. Brown of Edinburgh about to know every thing necessary concerning Henry's inclinations and acquirements. He gave a very favourable account of the boy; but it appeared, that although he had the basis of a good education, that yet that much was still wanting to enable him to become, what both you and I wish, - a well-informed officer and gentleman. I therefore sought about for a good academy where he might be placed a year or more, before entering on the career for which you destine him; and after some time, I fixed upon Dr. Burney's academy at Gosport, of which I had the most favourable accounts I had, also, another youngster, son of a Mr. Alderman Hollingworth of Hull, a relation of Mrs. Flinders', who was precisely in the same situation with respect to me as Henry, and of the same age, and I proposed his going to the same academy Mr. Brown and Mr. Hollingworth have both consented, and the youngsters are to enter at the end of this month, when the academy opens after the midsummer vacation. The simple expense will be salary is 30 guineas a year; but with clothes, extra teachers, books, pocket money, and staying the vacations the whole will about be which I think necessary, the whole expense will be about £60 per annum. I am in hope that after
As I think it probable Mr. Brown may neither be able himself, or have any person to send come with Henry so far; I have proposed, at the request of Mr. Hollingsworth, that he should be sent to Hull about the 20th. instant, and pass a week there with young Andrew, his destined companion, and Mr. H. will then bring them both to town and take them to Gosport to Dr. Burney. At that time, I shall write to the doctor to point out the particular line of education I wish them to pursue; and which will be principally navigation and nautical astronomy and geography with the application of the mechanical powers, at the same time that their Latin and French should not be neglected.
At the expiration of twelve or eighteen months, I hope to be able to place them with some friend, in a ship where they can remain until such time as I get a command myself; which, if I do get, will in all probability be for a voyage of discovery. Henry, on going to sea, will require £50 or £60 for his outfit, and the captain must should be authorised to endorse his bills for £20 or £30
[Page 80]
Mr. Wiles
£20 or £30 a year, besides his pay; except in such years as he may obtain an equal sum of prize money. This should continue so long as he remains a midshipman; for I do not know a more dangerous thing to a young man's morals than the continual want of money. I deeply experienced this great inconvenience myself, and think myself am very fortunate in having escaped: a happiness which I in part owe to your generous friendship.
Thus far, my friend, I think I have fulfilled your wishes with respect to your son Henry; and it must be from inability or some very unexpected occurrence, if I do not continue to watch his interests as I would those of my own son.
As far as I have been able to learn from Mr. Dixon, our old shipmate Smith died worth about £15,000; but he had unfortunately taken a Malay housekeeper, and has left three or four children. His eldest boy is in England, and Mr. Dixon is waiting for a copy of the will in order to provide properly for him, and arrange the affairs. He is joined in the executorship with Mr. Farquhar (, late governor of Pulo Penang and now of the Isles of France and Bourbon) and Mr. Paul, who destroyed himself some time since; so that Mr. Dixon will be the sole acting executor. I had not heard from poor Smith since 1800, though I had written him many letters; particularly whilst a prisoner in the I. of France.
With respect to my own affairs, they stand thus. Some little money that I have economised, joined to what was left me by my father and an uncle, produced will produce me about £120 a year; and this added to my half pay will make up about £250; which is the whole of my income; whilst my expenses in London, living economically but decently, amount to near £500; so that this is a very losing concern. I am obliged to remain here about two years, until such time as my voyage is finished; and I trust that the portion of the profits which the admiralty may award me, will at least pay the expense I am put to in writing it. My trouble, which altogether it is immense, will I fear be given away. This, between ourselves, I attribute to the non-exertion of my friend Sir J. B. who, if he pleased, might either procure me something that would at least pay my extra expenses. He seems to have adopted the adage "keep them poor and they will serve you the better"; fearing perhaps, that if I was comfortable in England, I should not be eager to go another voyage of discovery when wanted. -
After my task is completed, if nothing better turns up, I intend to purchase a small place house, with a garden in the country; and there retire with my books to live upon my little income. I think of pitching on the vicinity of Stamford, partly in the pleasing hope that you will come and fix yourself near me. Should I be sent out again, this little place would be a retreat for my wife during my absence; and th in that case, her mother and sister would probably live with her. Such, my friend, are the plans I now make; but they may be
[Page 81]
may be subverted by my being called to act upon the theatre of life. However, I go no more to sea, unless it is upon discovery; and therefore unless if a situation is not given me in the civil department of the navy, I shall retire, and render my happiness independent of the will of others; for although I have not neither acquired or inherited a fortune, I have learned to be content upon a little, an advantage perhaps equal to the other.
I am sorry to say, that Mrs. Flinders has but a poor state of health. A bilious head ach continually torments and keeps her as thin as a lath; nor do I see any reasonable prospect of better health for her, unless the air of the country, when we can get there, should cause a favourable alteration.
Adieu, my dear Wiles, and believe me to be, with true affection,
your very sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
I have got young Lound, son of our old schoolmaster, made a lieutenant; but have not been able to succeed in obtaining a commander's commission for my brother, or in getting my post rank antedated to the time I was unjustly detained in the Isle of France. I saw lately Mr. Aiton at Kew, who shewed me many plants, produced from seeds, collected, in my voyage, on the different coasts of Terra Australis: The live plants were all lost in the shipwreck of the Porpoise.
Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street - Hull
July 2. 1811
Conformable to the letter preceding, to Mr. Brown
Captain Owen, H. M. ship Inconstant - Portsmouth
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Dear Sir
July 3. 1811
I had the pleasure to receive your obliging note of the 20th. with an inclosure from my friend captain William Owen, whose advancement to post rank gives me sincere pleasure. Had I known your address in town I should immediately have done myself the honour of waiting upon you, in the hope of becoming [indecipherable letter]acquainted with an officer whom, from both whose public and private information, I have learned to character entitle him to my respect and esteem. and with whose advances I felt myself flattered. Having learned today from captain Fowler, late of the Najaden, that you are at Portsmouth, I lose no time in expressing the sense I [indecipherable] in answering your note, and expressing the gratification I should feel in a personal acquaintance, whensoever you may come to Town. I am myself, I am closely confined here, writing the account of my late voyage of discovery
[Page 82]
Captain Owen (Inconstant)
ry, which the Admiralty has ordered to be published. This task, partly from the extent of matter, and in part from being unaccustomed to write for the public, will, in all probability, occupy me the two years.
I believe that you knew my brother, Lt. Flinders, who commanded the Bloodhound on the Downs station, under your orders. I found, on my return to England, that he had been tried by a court-martial, which sentenced him to be dismissed his ship and degraded three years in his rank, for crimes which, as far as I can learn, were [indecipherable] : a sentence which, as far as I can learn, was a very hard one; But and in addition to this punishment he is, I fear, is added a bar to debarred from all future promotion. I have applied to Mr. Yorke to give him a commander's commission; and made out such a claim, from his services with me in the Investigator, as would have succeeded, had not this unfortunate court-martial stood in the way. Mr. Yorke has not yet has had the minutes of the court, and some additional papers before him, and has not yet given a decided negative to my application; but from the very long delay of his answer, I see he is either unwilling, or fears to comply with it.
Now, although in most cases it would be presumption, in me to ask you, at such a stage of our acquaintance to to second my application; yet if my brother's conduct was such, whilst under your orders, as to meet your approbation, and you conceive that what my he stood charged with, ought not to damn a young man forever; I am certain persuaded that your justice will not only excuse me; but that you will say to Mr. York what ought to be said in such a case: I wish for no more; and think, thank that much would not be required to turn the scale in his favour Lt. Flinders' favour.
I am, with much esteem, dear Sir
your most faithful and obed. servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I had previously received a letter from our friend Owen, of a date somewhat posterior to the one you inclosed me. I defer writing as yet, in the expectation that he may be soon in England
[Page 83]
The Rev. W. B. Cocker - Bunny Notts, near Loughborough
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Dear Sir July 4. 1811
The extracts from Gedling and Carlton which you had the goodness to send me in your letter of June 13., advance me considerably in the point I am desirous to ascertain: viz.+ from whence my family originally came; and, if possible, at what time they settled in England. I have entertained the an opinion, (being led thereto by the name itself, which is originally German, or rather Gothic, and is also to be found in the Dutch Belgic and Scotch dialects,) that the first of the name either came over with amongst the Saxon invaders, or was one of the Dutch refugees who escaped from the persecution of Philip the IInd. of Spain, and came over to settled in England in the reign of Queen Elizabeth; the latter is, perhaps, the most probable; for the refugees were mostly generally manufacturers, and most of the family, previously to my great grand father, were silk-stocking weavers; which business is still followed by many of the collateral descendants
As you have justly observed, a principal point in tracing the direct line, is to ascertain whether the John Flinders, baptised at Ruddington Jan. 31. 1637, married a Mary. This point, I have thought, may perhaps be ascer known from the register of marriages at Ruddington, since you do not mention having examined it. I take this Mary to have Should it be found, it will then be evident, that the above John, was my twice great-grandfather; and we then get one step further back to John and Ann, his father and mother. This Ann I take to have been the second wife; and that Milicent, buried at Gedling Nov. 23. 1623, was the first. [It seems to me probable, that Thomas Flinders, buried at Gedling Sept. 1609 and the widow Flinders buried there June 1. 1617, were the father and mother parents of John, Andrew, Richd. and Samuel, that John was mentioned in the Gedling extracts: that John married Milicent, and afterwards Ann, by which last he had the Ruddington John abovementioned. If these could be ascertained, and also that this last John married a Mary, I should have it would be clear, that Thomas Flinders of Gedling was my progenitor six generations back; probably they were brothers. and Perhaps he it was he who with William (buried October 1620) were brothers who probably [indecipherable] came first over from Holland. If you could continue to assist me, by having the registers of the parishes near Gedling and Ruddington examined, at such times and opportunities as may offer, and without putting yourself to inconvenience, it would
[Page 84]
Rev. W. B. Cocker
it add to the favours obligations you have so obligingly conferred. The marriages seem to be the most difficult to get at; probably from their taking place, most commonly, in the parishes where the females resided; and from whence it may happen, that the registers of places where a Flinders never resided, may be able to clear up the most interesting points. You will see by what is said above, that I do not consider any thing extract of a later date than 1682, to be of any importance to the questions
I lodged the 7. according to your directions, with Messrs. Aston and Backhouse; and also a £1 note, of which this is the history On the same day that I received your last letter, John Flinders of Nottingham called upon me. This simple man had come up to town upon a fortune-hunting speculation; and, as he said, to give me any further information; but he knew nothing more than your letter had told me, and he went down again. He then writes me a letter upon the expense he had been put to, in his journey, and his previous expense and trouble in assisting Mr. Blackburn: he states his distressed situation and ill health, and requests me to send him money. I wrote him such an answer as you may suppose befitted the case; but added, that in consideration of his distress and ill health, I would pay into your agents hands £1 for him; and which that I did not doubt you will be good enough to would give it to him on application; and this I now beg you will be pleased have the goodness to comply with, on his producing a letter from me or sending it by any other person.
Begging you to excuse the trouble I am giving you, I remain, dear Sir,
your obliged and very humble servant
Matttw. Flinders
Mr. John Flinders - Mr. J. Samples', Wood Street, Meadow Platts
Nottingham
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Sir July 4. 1811
The £1 note has been paid several days since to Mr. Cocker's agents; and on your application to him, or sending this letter by any person you can trust, I have no doubt you will receive it
Mr. Blackburn paid 7s. to the person who went twice to Gedling, relative to the extracts; but whether it was to you or to your brother, I am not certain; nor does it make much difference to me. I do I think it was necessary at the present moment to put yourself or me to any additional expense upon this subject. I rem am Sir,
your humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 85]
[NB The whole of this page has been crossed out with an X]
Captain Owen of H. M. ship Inconstant - Portsmouth
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
My dear Sir July 6. 1811
See pub. let. book
Situated as you appear to be at present with Mr. Yorke, I fully coincide in the opinion that you cannot address him directly upon the subject of my brother; and feel myself obliged by your readiness to say to me what you know of the circumstances, and of his brother's conduct whilst under your command; and to allow me to make use of it. May I then beg of you to consider the following as official, and to give me an answer which which I can lay before Mr. Yorke
Sir
Understanding that lieut. S.W. Flinders late commr. of the Bloodhound, served some time under your orders on the Downs station, I am induced to request a statement from you of his general conduct during that time, more especially with respect to his ready attention and obedience to orders. The cause of this request arises from originates in the following circumstances
Lt. F. he was tried by admiral Wells for disobedience of orders and for stating falsehoods to his commander in chief; and the sentence of the court was, that he should be dismissed the command of the Bloodhound and degraded three years in his rank: A sentence evidently proving, that the charges were not fully substantiated
It was remarked, that the flag captain, who from the admiral's indisposition, was virtually the prosecutor, sat as one of the five members of the court; and that the judge-advocate was the admiral's secretary, and that [indecipherable] the principal witness for the prosecution was the flag lieutenant. I do not now mention what has been told me, in order to show the inexperience of my brother in not objecting to the flag captain being one of his judges, an objection which, when other officers could have been obtained, would I conceive, have been admitted.
The little [indecipherable] thus observed in the composition of the court, could not but increase the defendant's difficulties not to throw any thing on these officers but to shew that in the composition of the court, no ?delivery was being observed to the unfortunate secretary sitting upon the ?court defendant; I say [indecipherable] everything, he had everything to contend with
It appears also, that the principal witness from the defendant, that would have disproved the second statement of the pilot as to the disobedience of orders, (for the pilot's statement in court is said to have been materially different from that he had previously made to the admiralty,) was the threatened with the [indecipherable] by the flag captain and rendered so confused, that his evidence testimony was set aside; It and the printed evidence of the pilots seems to have been the main point upon which the guilt or innocence of Lt. Flinders termed disobedience of orders was made to hinge. The second charge, of stateting stating falsehoods, cannot have been supported, as is evident from the sentence; and indeed it seems to have been a very secondary consideration with the prosecutor, and little dwelt upon.
[Page 86]
[NB The whole of this page has been crossed out with an X]
Captain Owen
Lieut. Flinders suffered the award of the court; and had this been all, I should not have trouble you upon the subject. But on my return to England after an absence of ten years, I find my brother who had been to me a most useful officer in my late voyage of discovery, not only unemployed unpromoted and unemployed, but, to all appearance, shut out from all future prospects in the navy; & this in consequence of the [indecipherable] a sentence which, in its direct consequence alone appears to have been a hard one.
I am persuaded, Sir, that your sense of justice will induce you you will have no objection to state what was my brother's conduct whilst under your orders command; and particularly as to his strict obedience and attention the points in question with such other circumstances, bearing on the question, as are within your knowledge, but more especially upon these two points which he was charged with neglecting:
Obedience to orders, and his general veracity as an officer and a gentleman, with such other circumstances, bearing on the question, as are within your [indecipherable]
Your answer, with permission, I will lay before the first Lord of the Admiralty; whose candid mind will not refuse to hear what may save a deserving officer from unmerited oblivion
I have the honour to be etc.
I think, my dear Sir, your answer to the above will come as near to the point as anything I can devise; and I will send my letter and the answer to Mr. Yorke, through his private secretary. If, however, you think I may have said too much upon the composition of the court, you will oblige me, by pointing it out.
Hoping it may not be long before I have the satisfaction of seeing you, I remain, with much esteem consideration, my dear Sir
Your very faithful and oblig obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
+It was remarked, that the flag captain, who, from the admiral's indisposition, was virtually the prosecutor, sat as one of the five members of the court, and that the admiral's secretary was the judge-advocate. These officers no doubt acted to the best of their knowledge and belief; but yet the little delicacy thus observed in the composition of the court could not but increase the difficulties of the young defendant, by adding considerably to the vigour with which the prosecution was carried on. The principal evidence to the disobedience of orders, was a pilot, and the who made a statement in court materially different to what he had before made to the admiral who had to clear himself from a similar computation. His testimony was directly opposed by that of an officer of the Bloodhound; but this young man became so confused by severe cross examination and being threatened with the [indecipherable] by the flag-captain, that his evidence was set aside, and that of the pilot remained. The same thing took place upon the charge of stating falsehoods, which appears to have been brought only in aid of the first, the circumstances having taken place several months before. It turned principally upon the truth or falsehoods of after insertions in the Bloodhound's logbook. The master who wrote them, was sick; but he sent a signed paper to the court of their truth. This could not be received as evidence, because not sworn to; but what was a hardship to the prisoner, was that the
[Page 87]
[NB The following paragraph has been crossed out with Xes in the MS]
that the court would not send a member to swear the master, though the Bloodhound was lying not within sight. - Under all these circumstances, it is not to be wondered at, if what might have been a mere error of judgement in the defendant, should have appeared to the court in a much worse light: and yet he could not have been found guilty to the extent of the charges, as the sentence itself must shew
Mrs. Flinders - Donington - Lincolnshire
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
My dear Madam July 8. 1811
This is the day that Henrietta dep leaves us to return to you; and although I have not been able to find any body going down to whose care I could recommend her, I hope, on going to the coach, there may be somebody we know, and that at any rate she will arrive safe. My time is so exceedingly occupied, that I have not been able to go about with Henrietta so as or to shew her every thing I could have wished. We have, however, shewn her all the attention in our power, & I hope she goes down satisfied that we have done so. I shall leave it to her, to tell you what she has seen, and how we go on here.
I apprehend that Mr. Large will have the necessary deeds made out ready by January next. The mode of proceeding in the signatures should, I apprehend be there. Messrs Hursthouse and Franklin should sign first, then yourself, afterwards Mr. and Mrs. Pearson, Mr. & Mrs. Dodd, and Henrietta, and for this purpose it would be convenient if all the parties could meet at Dorrington, between the 20th. and 25. of January next. The deed will, I suppose, be then sent up to Mr. Gleeds agent in town; who should [indecipherable] appoint a day for my brother and me to sign; and on this being done, the £552 should be paid into my hands: The interest arising thereon may be settled with you by Mr. Large, if you think proper. This part of my letter you can copy off, and communicate to Mr. Gleed; but if he has any other plan to propose, that will come to the same end, I shall be ready to agree to it
Previously to that time, I should like to know what plan Mr. Gleed proposes with respect to our signing them. Samuel and I will either sign them before or after the trustees and other parties; whichever shall be thought the most convenient. I suppose you will have to go to Boston to take up the money from Barnards; but if you and the trustees should judge it best to place the money in the public funds (the 5 per cents give the best interest,) it would be best, instead of the money, to take an order from Barnards to pay the money to me upon their agents in London, to pay the money to me or to Mr. or an order for it on Barnard's agents Walker. But if you should agree upon a mortgage in the country, you will take the money and the trustees will place it the £550. The interest belongs to you, and the odd £2 to me, for the expense of advertisements. If Mr. Large pays off his bond of £100 at the same time, it would perhaps be as well to put that money with the £550. If it is decided
The odd £2 I shall take for the expense of advertisements; and the £550 I would recommend, to be bought into the navy 5 per cents in the names of Hursthouse and Franklin if no convenient way [indecipherable] in the country can be had. If it is decided to put the money into the funds, and I would recommend the navy 5 per cents, if a good mortgage cannot be had I have no doubt that Mr. Walker will take the trouble of receiving the dividends, and accounting for them regularly to you, as he does for John's money. Upon this subject, however I would do it myself with pleasure, but, my stay here is uncertain. Upon the whole of this business, however, it will be necessary to talk with Messrs. Hursthouse and Franklin. If Mr. Large pays off his bond of £600 at the same time it would perhaps be as well to put that money with the £550.
With respect to the great green and Ben Simpson's house, which you say
[Page 88]
Mrs. Flinders
you say Mr. Dodd has a desire to buy, I have not made up my mind about it; but think I should scarcely like to let them go for less than £400, which I suppose is more than Mr. Dodd would like to give. Mr. Shilcock is also desirous of having it; and as he seems to wish to build on it, it would perhaps be worth more to him than Mr. Dodd. At equal terms, Mr. D. would of course have the preference. When Mr. Hursthouse comes to Donington, you could talk to him about the sale of those premises, and what he thinks to be the value; and if Mr. Dodd or Mr. Shilcock like to make any offer about them, you can write me word
I have not forgotten your £40 on Willingham's note; but I wait for the arrival of coffee from Jamaica before speaking to him on the subject. In case of my getting it, would you like that I should take the £10 out of it? In the mean time, should you be in want of £10 more, do not hesitate to let me know.
I some time since wrote to Mr. Harvey requesting him to tell me what he intended to do with James; but he has not thought proper to give me any answer. Pray give my love to the children.
Mrs. F. has been tolerably well these last few days, and joins me in affectionate remembrances to you and to Mr. and Mrs. Dodd. I beg my compliments to Messrs. Gleed, Shilcock, Wilson, and all the good neighbours, and remain as ever, my dear Madam
your affectionate son and friend
Mattw. Flinders
Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street - Hull
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
My dear Sir July 9. 1811
Agreeably to your request, I have written today to Dr. Burney, to request he will inform you of the Latin and French books used in his academy; and think you may expect his answer in two or three days after the reception of this. lett
Mr. Brown informs me, that he shall send young Mr. Wiles round to London by the Leith packet on account of the less expense; and I expect he will arrive in town about the 26th. instant; when he will meet Andrew the young folks can make acquaintance, and he can accompany you down to Gosport, should you be able to make the journey. For myself, I have no idea that any thing will soon call me there; indeed it must be a cause of the most urgent nature, to make me quit the [indecipherable] for so long a time two days, the pressing occupation that retains me in London, much against my will
Mrs. Flinders and Miss Tyler join me in kind compliments to you and Mrs. Hollingworth, with my dear Sir,
Yr. faithful servant M.F.
[Page 89]
James Brown Esquire - Gattonside House - Melrose near Berwick
7 Nassau Street Soho - London
Dear Sir July 9. 1811
For the reasons mentioned in your letter of the 5th. I cannot but approve of your sending also think it would be advisable to send Henry round by the Leith packet; and if he arrives by the 25th. or 26th. instant, he will be in time to accompany Mr. Hollingsworth and his son down to Gosport. Be good enough to let him come to me here, and I will take care of him in my lodgings, until Mr. H's departure
You will probably not think it necessary to incur proper to incur more of the extra expenses mentioned in the prospectus, than can are absolutely necessary. I should be glad, however, to receive by Henry your ideas upon this subject; and will conform thereto as near as possible.
I have written fully, by the last packet, to our friend Wiles upon the subject of his son; and explained both my plan of education, and with the expense attending it, and of his going to sea in the navy; and before the Christmas vacation, it is to be hoped, his answer will arrive
I have the honour to be, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur Ducasse, on board the Veteran, prison ship - Portsmouth Harbour
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Monsieur Ce 11 Juillet 1811
Hier j'ai eu l'honneur de votre lettre du 6. dernier, me priant de vous faire obtenir la permission de repasser à l'Isle de France Il faut vous expliquer, que ce n'est qu'après cing mois des courses, et des lettres et des instances sans fin, aux différents bureaux pendant cinq mois, que j'ai enfin reussi à obtenir cette permission pour cinq creoles, dont les parents et amis m'etaient connus et avaient eu montrés beaucoup de bonté pour des prisonniers Anglais à l'Isle de France; et ce n'est qu'en vertu de ces circonstances que l'on a accordé cette permission. Ainsi, Monsieur, vous verrez que Mais s'il me fut possible d'entreprendre une second fois les mêmes difficultés, je n'aurais l'espoir de réussir; et que vous aviez les mêmes droits, encore n' aurais-je pas l'espoir de réussir; et cela par la raison, que l'on vient à m'accorder
me faire une grace semblable importante et, semblable. [Il y a dans les différents dépôts
[Page 90]
M. Ducasse
dépôts D'Angleterre et d'Ecosse, beaucoup de créoles que je desire servir; mais je n'ose pas l'entreprendre; car non seulement je perdrais mes peines, mais la réputation d'un importun effronté, me ferais perdre le pouvoior de servir mes propres amis, si jamais les malheurs de la guerre les feraient conduire ici
Je suis fâché, Monsieur, que les circonstances soient telles que je ne puis rien faire pour vous; et tout ce que je puis vous dire, c'est qui si quelque chose hazard heureux me mette le mette à ma partie de vous servir, que je ne perdrai pas l'occasion
J'ai l'honneur d'être avec considération, Monsieur
Votre très humble et tres obeissant serviteur
Matt. Flinders
Monsieur Felix Roger, on board the Crown Prince - prison ship - Chatham
7 Nassau Street - Soho - London
Monsieur A Londres le 14 Juillet 1811
Ce n'est qu'hier que votre lettre du 30 Juin m'est parvenue. Il me peine de savoir qu'il y a ait encore un autre créole de l'Isle de France prisonnier ici; et surtout en ce qu'il est hors de mon pouvoir de leur être utile dans ce momement.
Aussitôt mon arrivée en Angleterre, je me suis occupé à obtenir la liberté de cinq créoles, dont les parens avaient rendu des services à des prisonniers Anglais; mais ce ne fut qu'après des courses, des lettres, et des instances sans fin aux bureaux, pendant cinq mois, que j'ai enfin réussi; et encore, cette permission de retourner à l'Isle de France manqua d'être inutile; car quoique le Transport Board leur accorda un passage sur un de leurs vaisseaux, il ne donna point de vivres; et le capitaine de ce transport leur demanda à chaqu'un cent guinées en main pour une table, se moquant des services qu'ils pussent rendre à bord. Ces malheureux infortunés furent donc obligés de retourner au lieu de leur cautionnement dépôt, fatigués et mortifiés au dernier point. Enfin, le bureau leur a accorde ordonné des vivres, et ils sont partis, il y a une semaine.
Après une grace, si importante, que l'on vient de m'accorder, il m'est impossible de traverser le même chemin encore de longtemps. La réputation d'un importun effronté, me ferait perdre non seulement ce que je cherchais à obtenir, mais aussi l'espoir de pouvoir jamais servir ces amis auquels
[Page 91]
auxquels je suis redevable de tant de bienfaits, si malheureusement ils se trouvâssent prisonniers. C'est pour ces raisons puissantes, que je n'aie pu répondre aux demandes de plusieurs créoles dans les différents dépôts d'Angleterre et d'Ecosse; car, (il est facheux à dire) que chaque semaine me portent une au moins une demande semblable à la votre
Ainsi, Monsieur, avec tout le desir de vous rendre service je ne puis vous donner d'autre espoir (hors la paix ou un échange général) que ce qui le gouvernement pourrait, quelque jour, permettre aux créoles, généralement, de retourner aux deux isles comme sujets Britanniques
J'ai l'honneur d'etre, Monsieur
Votre tres humble et obéissant servit.
Mattw. Flinders
Les cinq Messieurs partie, sont Lisy de Céré, Ed. Merle beau-père de M. Pitot, Osserre - neveu de M. Curtat Mad. Curtat, Kerbalance, et St. Perne. - A l'avenir je vous prie d'adresser vos lettres, sous l'envelope de M. Adam au Transport Office
The Rt. Hon. Charles York -
The Rt. Hon. Charles Yorke - First Lord of the Admiralty
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Sir July 16. 1811
I beg leave to express my acknowledgements for the promotion given to Mr. Lound, late one of my midshipman in the Investigator; nor would my feelings have allowed me to defer doing this so long, had I not waited to know your decision relative to Lieut. Flinders, for whom I also applied in the same letter of April. 2.
I was given to understand, by Mr. Edgcombe, that a court martial held on my brother, whilst commanding the Bloodhound, was the obstacle that stood in the way of his promotion. In consequence, I transmitted some papers to Mr. Edgcombe on April 16. upon that subject, with a request that they might be laid before you. Lately [Commodore Owen, having under whose orders my brother mostly was, having returned to England, and your decision remaining still in suspense, I requested of him a statement of Lieut. Flinders' conduct, and character in his estimation. This, Sir, The commodore's answer I take the liberty of inclosing for your perusal; and trust that your candour will excuse this further intrusion on your valuable time, in favour of the interest I must necessarily take in saving so near a relation from, I trust unmerited, oblivion
I have the honour to, with high respect, Sir your obliged and most obed. humble servt.
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 92]
Dr. Burney - Academy Gosport Hants -
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
July 27. 1811
Sir
This letter will be delivered to you by Master Andrew Hollingworth, one of those pupils concerning whom I had the honour of writing you some time since. At the request of his father, I take the liberty of pointing out, generally, the plan of education it is wished should be followed.
As young Hollingworth is intended to enter shortly into for the sea service, Geometry and trigonometry, plain and spheric, so far as is necessary to with navigation and the most useful problems of nautical astronomy, are the subjects to which his studies should be principally directed and it is wished that he may be pushed forward in them as fast as his abilities will admit. He has already learned something of geometry; and has made some progress in Latin, and lately begun French. These two languages it is wished should occupy a part of his time; so far as can be done without too much interrupting the nautical part of his education. As yet, Drawing, fencing, and dancing, of which it is intended he should learn something before quitting Gosport may as yet, be omoitted, until he shall have made some progress in the more essential parts
The second pupil, Mr. Henry Miles, will, I expect, be at Gosport, in a week or ten days, from Edinburgh: He and Hollingworth will then occupy the same bed, if consistent with the rules of your academy.
Mr. Hollingworth has probably mentioned to you, that the extra charges to be incurred are French, Washing and mending, Desk paper etc. and a seat at church. It is also intended that his son should remain during the Christmas vacation
I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Your prospectus does not mention that the pupils are instructed in the application of the mechanical powers
P.S. Hollingworth has some valuable books of voyages with him, which it is requested he may read at convenient opportunities
[Page 93]
Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street - Hull
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
My dear Sir July 27. 1811
Mr. Adams called this morning with Andrew, but young Wiles, owing to some delays about his clothes, will not be here for a week to come. Mr. A. proposes to go down to Gosport tomorrow morning, and I have written to Dr. Burney, as follows that
"As young Hollingworth is intended to enter for the sea service, Geometry and trigonometry, plain and spheric, so far as is necessary etc. (as in the preceding, to the end of the letter.)
With respect to the char pecuniary arrangements with Dr. Burney. I should have preferred my dear Sir that you had corresponded directly with him. My time is so fully occupied, that I can spare but little for correspondence objects that is are not really necessary; and as you are upon the spot, and it must all eventually go be referred to you, the go-between writing and postage of letters might have been avoided. Since, however, you wish it should be so, I will undertake the correspondence. and [In my present way of thinking, shall direct that Andrew should begin drawing after the Christmas vacation, and learn fencing and dancing during the last six months of his stay at Gosport, as you seem willing that these accomplishments should be added to his education. These are all that I foresee will be necessary to be joined to what I have mentioned in the letter to Dr. Burney; and If Andrew remains eighteen
[Page 94]
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 7. 1811
My dear friend
I wrote you by the July packet, stating pretty fully what had been done and was still intended for your son Henry. I mentioned to you that Mr. Brown had consented to his going to Dr. Burney's academy at Gosport, until such times as we could hear from you, & that the expense of that academy would be about £60 per annum. Mr. Brown did not send Henry to join his intended companion Hollingworth at Hull; but, to save expense, he is to come round by the Leith packet and I have been expecting him this last week past for the academy opened again on July 29. I wished very much to be able to say, that I had seen him, and what I thought of him; but this being the day for making up the packet, I cannot longer defer my letter.
I see plainly that Mr. Brown does not like the academical plan on account of the expense; but wishes Henry to go to sea as he is; you will therefore write expressly either to him or me, or both; what you sentiments and wishes are. The expense attending the plan I propose for Henry, will be nearly this: One year at the academy, about £60. Outfit on his going to sea, about £50 or £60. And during the time he remains a midshipman, to have per annum £20 or 30, unless at such times as he may receive an equal sum of prize money. - As Mr. Brown agreed to the academy when first proposed, I expect that plan will part of the plan will, as I expect, go on until we hear from you; and I am expecting Henry every hour. I shall forward him to Gosport, with a letter to Dr. Burney pointing out the plan to be followed in his education, as I have done for young Hollingworth; which last, fortunately met with the doctor's entire approbation
I have not yet fixed upon where to place Henry after he leaves Dr. Burney; for I have been so much out of the way, that I know very few captains that are employed. When you write, pray say whether you know any with whom you are sufficiently intimate with anyone to ask the favour of them him. Should you know none, and I think of asking young Franklin, 3rd. lieut. of the Bedford to get him into that ship, if nothing better turns up before the time of his going.
I just now receive a letter from Mr. Brown, saying that Henry left Melrose on the 2nd. and would sail, as he expected, on the 5th. In that case he will probably be here tomorrow or next day. I am really sorry he had
[Page 95]
he had not now arrived, that I might of have talked to you about him, being well persuaded that no subject can be more grateful to a father
Of my own affairs I wrote you so fully in my last, that it is unnecessary to say more now, as nothing has occurred since that time
I therefore remain, my dear Wiles
Your very affectionate and sincere
friend
Mattw. Flinders
Dr. Burney - Academy - Gosport
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 10. 1811
Dear Sir
This will be delivered to you by my young friend Henry Wiles, for whom I engaged the second vacancy. He is the son of a very old friend, a respectable planter in Jamaica, and is intended to go to sea in about twelve months or possibly sooner; I would therefore beg, that his nautical education may be pushed forward as fast as it conveniently can, pursuing the same studies as young Hollingworth The extra expenses are to be nearly the same for both, namely French, washing and mending, desk paper etc. and a seat at Church; and for young Wiles 1s. per week pocket money. I have desired him to give you the two pounds he has with him, which will meet the last expense; and should he be in want of any little article of clothing may I beg of you to cause it to be provided.
James Brown Esq. 6 George Street, Edinburgh is the immediate protector of young Wiles; but his half-yearly bills can be sent to me; and indeed I would beg the favour of you to correspond with me upon every thing concerning him, and also that every all convenient economy may be observed with respect to him in his arrangements, for these are very hard times for planters.
With respect to Hollingworth the bills should be sent to his father, at Hull; but in what regards his education, the father wishes the references should be made to me.
I have now, Sir, to thank you for the obliging hints contained in your letter of the 31st. last; and I should be very happy could I have got young either of my young friends, but Wiles, more particularly, on one of the ships books; but unfortunately I am not acquainted with either captain Hull or Patterson, nor sufficiently with Sir Roger Curtis to ask the favour of him
I am glad to hear that we are to have a new edition of
[Page 96]
Dr. Burney
Falconer's marine dictionary. When a prisoner in the I. of France, I was acquainted with some French naval officers, whom I consulted upon the correctness of the sea terms employed given in the dictionary, and found several had become either changed or obsolete. I had begun to correct the French terms under the dictation of one of the best informed of these gentlemen; but when I left the Island, had proceeded finished only the letter A. Should you conceive these corrections may be of any use I will communicate them with pleasure
I have the honour to be, with consideration, dear Sir
your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinder
P. S. After sufficient time shall be elapsed to allow of a judgement to be formed of my young friends, you will would oblige me by writing your opinion of them. Aug. 11. I have requested the assistance of captain Portlock, who knows the father of young Wiles, in getting him upon one of the ships' books.
Capt. Portlock R. N. Gosport
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 11. 1811
Dear Sir
In consequence of the answer what Mrs. Portlock had the goodness to write in answer to my former letter to you, and of a subsequent correspondence with Dr. Burney, I have sent my two young friends Andrew Hollingworth and Henry Wiles to the academy. This letter will be delivered to you by the latter; and if you thought proper to shew a little countenance to him, it would be useful to the boy, and be thankfully acknowledged by his worthy father and by myself.
Dr Burney observed, that as these youngsters were more than fourteen years of age, it would be useful to them could they be placed upon one of the guardships books for a year whilst their nautical education was going on; as which is the case with several of his scholars; but I have not any acquaintance with either captain Hull or Patterson, nor sufficient with Sir Roger Curtis to ask this of him; otherwise I should have been very glad to have obtained this advantage for Henry Wiles who is now near fifteen; and will be near sixteen before he leaves the academy, which is two or three years too late. Were you acquainted sufficiently intimate with either of the above officers and could assist us in this
[Page 97]
us in this, it would be conferring a favour, of which the father will certainly be very sensible. [The boy has been educated in Scotland, and with a good heart, seems to possess a fund of sense and information and a desire to acquire more. He seems also to have acquired thet prudence and carefulness for which the natives of that country are celebrated; and when he shall become a little polished, will by mixing with the world, will, I trust, do very well. Should I go out again, I propose to take him with me
I hope you have recovered of your indisposition since Mrs Portlock wrote; and beg that you and she will accept the kind compliments of Mrs. Flinders and of, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Brown Esq. Gattonside House - Melrose near Berwick
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 14. 1811
Dear Sir
Our young friend Henry Wiles arrived on the 10 in the morning; and on the 11th. in the evening I set him forward in the Portsmouth coach with directions for his future proceeding. We got the five guineas from Coutts; and after purchasing him a hat and paying his coach, I gave him the £2.11 that remained; but desired him to give the two pounds to Dr. Burney, to meet the expense of 1s. per week pocket money, and for the purchase of any small articles of clothing which the doctor should deem necessary.
After pointing out in a letter to Dr. Burney, the plan of education I wished to be adopted, I requested that the nautical part of it should be pushed forward as fast as possible, since he would be sent to sea in twelvemonths and possibly sooner. I also gave Henry a letter to young Hollingworth his intended companion and friend; and another to captain Portlock of the navy who resides at Gosport, recommending the boy to his favorable notice
I informed the doctor that you were the immediate protector of Henry Wiles, but that his bills half-yearly bills should be sent to me in the first instance; and I recommended that every convenient economy should be employed in his arrangements
I regret that Henry had not arrived a few days sooner that I might have spoken of him in the letter which I wrote to his father by the
[Page 98]
Mr. Brown Edinburgh
by the last packet. In that letter I repeated the plan I thought best to be pursued for his son, and stated the expenses of it; and requested he would state say to you or to me, or both, whether he wholly approved of it, or what alteration he wished should be made. This I had before done by the July packet; so that we may hope to receive his answer before Christmas; and if he should wish it, Henry may go to sea so soon as the rigours of the winter are a littled passed.
I saw what I could judge of our young friend, he appears to possess a good fund of good sense, pruden information, morality, and prudence, and a thirst of knowledge that cannot fail to make him superior to the general run of his competitors; though I certainly think with you, that there is nothing strikingly brilliant about him. I am sorry to see to see so deep a tinge in his complexion; as it will subject him to many little disagreeablenesses amongst his companions, and I fear be prove a bar to any considerable advancement, which it will require sup very superior merit to overcome. I hope, however, for the best; and have some confidence in the energies of his mind, and in his good conduct
I remain, with esteem, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain Wm. Kent - H. M. ship Agincourt - Lisbon
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 14. 1811
My dear Sir
A few days after my arrival in England in October last, I wrote you in the Downs; but it should appear, that before my letter was received you had sailed for Lisbon. You will have learned from the lists that post rank was given me from May 1810; but all my efforts to procure it back to the time when I should have arrived been in England, had I not be unjustly detained in the I. of France, have proved ineffectual. I am now employed preparing an account of my late voyage for the press, under the direction of the admiralty which pays the expense of engraving the charts and views. It is a long and difficult job, and will not I fear be completed these two two years; and until then I am forced to live in London, which I find very inconvenient to my pocket; for no allowance is being made me for it; and whether the proportion that may be awarded me of the advantages arising from the work will prove an indemnification, is a matter
[Page 99]
of great uncertainty
I found my brother, on my return, in a very unpleasant situation with the admiralty. He had been tried by admiral Wells, the then commander in chief at Sheerness, for disobedience of orders and stating falsehoods; and the Court dismissed him from the Bloodhound, and degraded him three years in his rank: a sentence which shews, that the charges could not have been el fully proved; especially when we know that the flag captain, who was in reality the prosecutor, sat as one of the five judges; and the admirals' secretary was the judge advocate. Lord Cochrane after perusal of the minutes offered him to bring the affair before the house of commons; and there certainly were appears to have been several circumstances of an oppressive nature attending the trial; but Samuel had the good sense and moderation to decline it.
We have made every representation to Mr. Yorke to get over the difficulty this court-martial in a moderate way although had we had a direct statement from Com. Owen in his favour, but + we find it still to operate both against his promotion and his reinstatement in his former rank; and Samuel's feelings will not allow him to serve again as he now stands, except in a particular [indecipherable] which is as your first lieutenant as a first lieutenant, and that, if possible with you. Now, my dear Sir, how do you feel disposed and situated to give us assistance in this case? I wish of all things to see him in active service; both for his own practical advantage, and to do away this court-martial, which, though unjustly in the opinion of those acquainted with the circumstances, will prove a bar to him so long as something is not done to produce a fresh claim.
If you can make a vacancy for him, and it meets your approbation, will you apply to the admiralty for his appointment? The application had perhaps better be inclosed to me, that a letter from him to the same effect may go in at the same time. At any rate, I will beg of you to write me your sentiments upon this subject, so soon as you conveniently can.
Mrs. Flinders is in tolerable health and desires me make her best compliments. I am, my dear Sir,
your affectionate friend and
faithful servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. When may I hope for the gratification of meeting you in England?
+ although we had a strong statement from Commodore Owen in favour of his general conduct, whilst commanding the Bloodhound
[Page 100]
Captain Owen of H.M.S. Inconstant - Portsmouth 7 Nassau St. Soho - London
My dear Sir Aug. 14. 1811
I have to thank you for your two last letters. That intended for Mr. Yorke's inspection I inclosed to him; and I received for answer, that he regretted no hopes of promotion for my brother could be given. An application was then made by himself to be reinstated in his former rank, and it was then said expressly, that after a careful due examination of the case, Mr. Yorke did not see sufficient grounds for complying with the request. Thus, unless a claim-posterior to the court-martial then can be brought forward, I see no prospect of his ever rising in the service; and the feelings arising from a sense an acute feeling of his harsh treatment will not allow him to apply for employment in the general way, as he now stands.
I have written to my friend captain Kent of the Agincourt, to know whether he can make a vacancy for my brother to go in as first lieutenant; and if he can, I shall still entertain hopes of getting him forward; but if no such situation can be found for him, I think, that with his present sentiments, he might as well quit the service altogether
I see by the papers that our friend Wm. Fitzwilliam is gone in the Barracouta for the attack of Batavia. I hope it may prove advantageous to them; for I do not think the Dutch will afford them much opportunity of distinguishing themselves
I am with much regard, my dear Sir,
your obliged and faithful servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 101]
J. Pond Esq. Astronomer Royal - Greenwich
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Aug. 15. 1811
Dear Sir
Since receiving from captain Hurd the decision of the board of longitude respecting the observations made on board the Investigator, I have frequently been at Sir Jos. Banks' in the hope of meeting you, and learning what part of them you judged, or whether the whole should be recalculated. The time is now approaching, that the engraving of my charts should commence; and I am very anxious to have for them the benefit of the recalculation and correction of the observations so far as it is judged proper that they should be done
If you are not coming to town soon, I will, if you wish it, go down to Greenwich at any time you will appoint; and if captain Hurd could do the same, the [indecipherable] you could probably determine what observations should be recalculated, and a commencement be made, so soon as Mr. Crosley is at liberty, which I suppose will be almost immediately
May I beg The favour of your sentiments upon this subject will oblige, dear Sir,
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. de Boucherville on board the Crown Prison - ship - Portsmouth
Nassau Street Aug 16. 1811
Sir
It is now a fortnight since I had the honour of your letter of the 20th. last, but it is only today that I am able to tell you give you any certain answer and I went twice to the public offices relative to the subject of it without being able to gain any information for you. Today I have been more fortunate; but still I fear you will not think very satisfactory the sole hope it is possible for me to give you.
The creoles of the islands are not likely to be released, except in the case that the English governor shall apply for them to the Transport Board, or to the Secretary of State. You have been misinformed in supposing this has been done; no applications, either general or particular have been sent as yet. I would therefore recommend to you to write to your
[Page 102]
M. de Boucherville
to your friends, and request them to apply to the English governor for your return to the Isle of France; and I think there is little doubt that it will be complied with. I had not [indecipherable] It is not improbable, that the application has already been made for you; since I some time ago informed the friends of some gentlemen detained here, that this mean was the best to obtain the liberty of th any creole detained in England
I was fortunate enough to procure the liberty release of five prisoners, but it was with the greatest difficulty, and only after five months applications, and much trouble and vexation; and I am informed that no future request of the same kind will be attended to; nor indeed can I expect it should that so important a favour should be repeated
Your future Any future letter to me, or any for the I. of France should be directed under cover to Mr. Adams of the Transport Office. Wishing you every success, and fortitude to bear up against misfortune [indecipherable], you until it arrives takes place. It pains me not to be able to give you any better prospect; but I hope you will ultimately succeed, and that you will have fortitude to sustain yourself until the happy day arrives. I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Any future letter to me, or any for the I. of France, should be directed under cover to Mr. Adams - Transport Office; and they should be unsealed.
Mrs. Flinders Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
My dear mother Aug. 27. 1811
I take the opportunity of Miss Tyler's journey to Boston to write in answer to your last letter. The revolution that has taken place in your disorder will, I hope, be the means of restoring you to health, without the trouble and expense of going into Northamptonshire. I cannot say that I have any great faith in irregular practitioners, as I suppose Mr. Houghton to be, nor, in any case, can he be so well acquainted with your constitution as Mr. Large, or Dr. Wilson and I fear that he may be giving you something in the first case that may do injury. Should you find yourself get worse, whilst among strangers, you would besides, suffer many inconveniences and be very uncomfortable both on your own and Henrietta's
[Page 103]
rietta's account, for I suppose, and indeed it would be proper, that she should go with you. If, however, you cannot feel easy without going; it is perhaps better to run the risk, than that your mind should not be satisfied
Willingham Franklin is now in Lincolnshire; but I apprehend there is no prospect of the affairs of that family being so soon settled: if they should be completed before the year is out, it is all that can be hoped for. I found that the coffee from Jamaica had arrived; but owing to the very low price, Willingham defer's taking it until next spring, in the hope that it may then amount to something. This being the case, and knowing the great embarrassments he has incurred on account of his family, I did not mention your note. I expect he will call upon you before he returns, and possibly he may make some arrangement upon the business; and at least, as I hope, pay you the interest due upon it. In the mean time, should you find a necessity for £10; pray let me know, and I will send it immediately. The great expenses I am at in London, compared with my narrow income, do not allow me to be so liberal as I could wish, or indeed to advance anything that is not absolutely necessary indispensable; but there is nothing I would not do, rather than you should be in want of the necessary comforts
As you say Mr. Large seems desirous of finishing his purchase, we may safely leave the arrangement of it to him, as he will not lose probably not lose any time. The conclusion of that affair, will bring you about £20 for the interest, and, I hope, put you at your ease for the moment. If you can get a safe mortgage for the £550, and the mortgagee will pay the income tax upon it, that will be the best plan of disposing of the money; but if you cannot find such an one, I think it will be best placed in the navy five per cents. Mr. Walker is, I suppose, now at Donington; and if you speak to him on the business will, I am sure, advise you for the best. He would receive the dividends and transmit them to you regularly; and he suggested, that to save the expense of a power to receive them, the money should be put in, in the joint names of Walker, Hursthouse and Franklin, which I approve: Pray give our kind remembrances to Mr. Walker, if he is with you.
Mrs. Flinders has enjoyed better health than usual, since Henrietta left us; and joins in affection for you and my sisters, with my dear Madam,
your sincere friend and son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 104]
Madame D'Arifat - Wilhems Plains - Isle of France - Aug. 27. 1811
A friendly and rather short letter on general subjects - Complain of not being rewarded for my past labours and sufferings. Repeat my promise of a copy of my voyage as soon as published
Mr. Thomas Pitot - same date. General letter. Confirm the subject of my last. Promise a copy of my voyage when published -
These sent by Lt. Pritchard - Owen Glendower
[NB The whole of this letter has been crossed out with an X]
The editor of the Naval Chronicle
London Aug. 1811
Sir
Observing in your hydrographical article section for the month of May last, some doubts raised about the situation of Cape Frio, on the coast of Brazil; and a wish expressed to receive correct information respecting the position of that important headland; I herewith send you the observations I made off it, in 1795, on board His Majesty's ship Supply; for insertion in any future Chronicle that, if they meet your ideas of correctness, they may be inserted in a future Chronicle.
I am, sir, your obedient servant
M.F. -
[NB The observations have not been reproduced; refer to p. 104 of the manuscript]
[Page 105]
To the editor of the Naval Chronicle
London Aug. 29. 1811
Sir
The perusal of the article, under the head Hydrography, cont given in your number for May last, induced me to refer to my old log books for observations made within sight of Cape Frio. If you think the following extracts calculated to clear up the difficulty concerning the position of that important head land, they are at your service for insertion in a future chronicle number.
I am, Sir, your obedient servant
M.F.
[NB The observations have not been reproduced; refer to p. 105 of the manuscript]
[Page 106]
Hugh Hope Esq. Civil Service - Calcutta -
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
My dear Hope Sept. 17. 1811
I duly received your three letters, the last of which was dated Feb. 20 1811 previously to your sailing with Lord Minto, for Java. I have many thanks to give you for the care and trouble you took about my trunk. On the arrival of the Astell lately, I addressed a note to captain Hay, and he then sent me your last letter; with [indecipherable] and as he was fixed in my neighbourhood I called upon him, and received the necessary information about the trunk; and expect I shall obtain it from the Company's baggage warehouse in a few days. Poor Hay is quite crippled; and fears, from the report of Mr. Cline, that he shall remain so, the bones of his thigh having slipped beside each other; he looks, however, pretty well in health.
It is now some time since I have received any letters from our friends in the Isle of France; but I have had a correspondence, hitherto well followed up, with Thomy Pitot, Madame D'Arifat etc. You were mistaken in Pitots being wounded; but his brother was made prisoner, and he himself escaped across the country, and suffered a good deal for a fat man. Most of my letters from that island express much satisfaction at the change of government; but the Pitots seem to dislike it: He being obliged to return the stores to a vessel of theirs taken in harbour, and the terms of the oath of allegiance required of them, seem to be the causes of dissatisfaction
I am going on with my work, as when I wrote you last (March 1811); but, as is usually the case in such like undertakings, my work grows upon me; and I do not think it can be ready for the press before two years from this time. The charts of the French voyage are not yet published, and what is the cause of the delay I cannot tell; unless, as some people say, they wait to see mine appear to have the advantage of correction. You would see in No. 1 of the British Review a long critique upon Péron's account of that voyage, and some particulars of my treatment in the Isle of France. The author of that article requested me to look over his manuscript, and give him such information of my own voyage as it might be convenient to communicate; and upon the strength of my compliance he has cried me up not a little
I have had two letters from Owen, who, I find, is posted. I should have written to him long ago had I not expected him home, by every fleet
[Page 107]
fleet that has arrived. Should you see him, pray tell him this; give my kind remembrances, and say I have been in correspondence with his brother the commodore, but that we have not yet met.
I hope the re-establishment of your health will make it unnecessary to go to Port Jackson; but should it be otherwise, do not forget to furnish yourself with tea, sugar, spirits, wine etc. not only for your own consumption, but for the purpose of bartering for what you may want during your stay. With these precautions, you will find the country and inhabitants very agreeable, and your trip the cheapest you ever made. If you are fond of field sports, take a double-barrelled gun, a lease of strong greyhounds, a horse that will stand fire, and a tent: with these accommodations there will be plenty of people to shew you the country. All my old acquaintances have left the country N.S. Wales, or I would give you some introductions; but should you find John Palmer the Commissary General, mention my name to him: You will find him one of the honester best little good-natured fellows breathing
Adieu. I wish you health and happiness, and remain, as ever, very affectionately yours
Mattw. Flinders
Continue to direct to me at Clifford's Inn.
Mr. Antony Roux - Passenger on board the General Wellesley
Cartel - Portsmouth
7 Nassau St. Soho - London
Sept. 26. 1811
My dear Sir
I had the pleasure this morning of receiving your acceptable letter of the 23. last, but have not received that which you say Madame Brunet proposed to write. I am very sorry that the distance I am from you, and my occupations, cannot allow me to see you in the short time that you will remain in England. I should have particular pleasure in seeing the worthy sister of my dear friend Thomy, as also Mr. Brunet, Madame Marant and yourself, and to render you such services as might be in my power. Upon this head I am happy to inform you, if you do not already know it, that all the passengers of the General Wellesley are to be put on board a transport, and sent to Marlaix in a few days; but whether you will be allowed to take what may be called merchandise, that I could not learn. I would by no means advise you to say anything of your being a citizen of the United States: it would do no
[Page 108]
Mr. A. Roux
good. The articles of the capitulation and the permission given at the I. of France to embark what you have brought, are the best grounds upon which you can rest your claims
I am not able to give you precise information of the books and instruments you wish to purchase, but think they may come to near £80 sterling. I do not know much of Heather's charts: we reckon those of Arrowsmith of Faden to be the best. Of Margetts' tables I the use of Margetts' tables I have no great opinion, but Mendoza's are excellent. I would recommend you to apply to Mottley, bookseller in High Street Portsmouth for both books, charts, and instruments; believing that he will procure for you what may not be kept in the shop; but I rather think you will not stay long enough to receive what may be required from London
I shall now tell you, that the last letters I received from the islands, were from Madame D'Arifat of January 23. The last from my friend Thomy was dated Jan. 4. I have written several times since; once by Henry Desbassayns who is gone to Bourbon with his wife and child, and if they had not passed the Cape when you were there would arrive immediately afterwards. I wrote also by Messieurs Kerbalance, Ed. Merle, Céré, Osserre, and St. Perne, whose liberty, after several months of application, I was fortunate enough to procure: they sailed about two months ago. There are several other unfortunate creoles whom I wish to serve in the same way, namely Boucherville, Felix Roger, Ribet etc. but my interest has been totally exhausted with what has been done
The cutter in which I came from the Cape took your brig L'Atalante, and poor Baudouin is now a prisoner in Scotland; nor can I do any thing for him. Lieut. Taylor, who took him, is now a prisoner at Boulogne, and wounded; nor will the French government let him come over, although several hundreds of sick and wounded prisoners have been sent to France: Should you meet with him, pray speak a word of comfort to him
I am now employed in writing the account and making completing the charts the charts of my voyage, which is to be published so soon as it can be got ready. And this arduous task will keep me closely employed for two years to come, although I work at it every day from morning till night. My wife and brother are with me in London, and I am happy as far as it is the lot of mankind to be,
[Page 109]
and more so than I could ever have promised myself two years ago. My imprisonment in the Isle of France has been cause that I have lost six years of rank as post-captain, nor has all the interest I could make been able to obtain it. Our government has applied to that of France for the repeal of the parole I was required to give by general De Caën, and to obtain back my journal, but no satisfactory answer has yet been given, though the general has been many months in France.
If you have time to write before sailing, may I beg of you to give me a particular account of the state of the I. of France, and to say franchement, how the new government is liked by the inhabitants, and what privileges are to be allowed to commerce. Pray tell me also, about Mr. Dayot, the Rouillards, Labauve, Mallou etc etc On your arrival in France you may perhaps see Panon Desbassayns at his brother Philips No. 36 Rue Pigale, division de Mt. Blanc; and if so, pray remember me kindly to him.
May I beg of you to present my respects and friendly compliments with wishes for their safe arrival in France to Mr. and Mrs. Brunet and family, and to believe me, my dear Sir
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Hope est parti avec Lord Minto pour Java. Owen est fait capitaine de vais- seau.
Sir Roger Curtis ?Br. Admiral of the Red & Comm. in Chief etc.
Portsmouth
London (7 Mary St. Brooke St. New Road
Sept. 30. 1811
Sir
I beg a moment of the Commander in Chief attention whilst I state, that on board the General Wellesley cartel there are amongst the prisoner passengers from the Isle of France, several respectable and worthy persons who merit a more honourable treatment from Englishmen, than from some mistake apparently no doubt, they appear to have received. Sir Roger Curtis may perhaps call it to his recollection, that captain Flinders late commander of the Investigator, who has now the honour of adressing him, was six and a half years a prisoner in the Isle of France. I perhaps owe my life to the humanity and kind attention of many of the principal inhabitants of that island; but to none was I, more and many other of our unfortunate countrymen, more indebted than to Mons.Th. Pitot, brother of Madame
[Page 110]
Sir Roger Curtis
Madame Brunet, one of the passengers in the Wellesley. To this lady and who with Monsieur Brunet, I also a passenger, I am likewise indebted for much civility her husband and Mr. and captain and Madame Le Marant, their daughter son and daughter, are amongst the passengers in the Wellesley. To this worthy and respectable family I am was also indebted for much civility; but I do not mention these circumstances with the idea wish or expectation of captain Tower of the Courage being deprived of any part of his right in their favour on this account; it is in the hope that they I naturally feel gratitude for kindness and assistance rendered when in need of them, will plead my excuse for this address.
From what has been written to me from is said by the passengers of the Wellesley, it appears that they have been detained under the idea opinion of there being money and merchandise on board; these they were likely to have in some small proportion, since, by the articles of the capitulation, all private property was to be respected; and those who have to quit the island were allowed to carry it away and the government of the island permitted them to bring it away. But in addition to their detainer and fear of losing what the capitulation gave them, they have been made to suffer privations and been menaced with inconveniences which, if true to the extent that have been described, are far from doing reflecting honour to our national justice and humanity. These privations have in a great measure been made to cease through the benevolent exertions interference of Sir Roger Curtis; and therefore, as also from an unwillingness to be believe that an officer in the service a captain in the navy could push a want of feeling so far, I decline entering into the details.
It is sufficient if I succeed in making Sir Roger Curtis sensible of the true situation of these unfortunate but worthy persons; for my observation at the Cape of Good Hope in 1801 very much deceive me, if, when an act of justice and humanity demand it, the succouring hand of Sir Roger is not ready; or if he does thinks justice and humanity not due to these persons because they are unprotected Frenchmen strangers and Frenchmen.
Besides the family I have mentioned, there are probably some other of the passengers on board the Wellesley who have claims upon us for services rendered to our countrymen in distress; one of them, Monsieur Roux, has these claims to my knowledge; but I will not longer take up the Commander in chiefs' time, than by requesting him to believe me, with accept the hommage of high consideration and respect, from
his most obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
captain R.N.
[Page 111]
Mr. A. Roux, passenger on board the Gen. Wellesley, cartel, Portsmouth
7 Mary St. Brooke St. New Road
London - Sept. 30. 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Ce matin lorsque je j'ai reçus votre lettre, j'etais dans le tracas d'un déménagement. Aussitot que j'aie pu m'asseoir je l'ai lu, et étais indigné de ce que l'on vous a fait souffrir. Ce n'est pas la peine d'en parler, mais je viens d'ecrire à l'e au digne commandant en chef, l'amiral Sir Roger Curtis une lettre à ce sujet, et j'espère que vous en trouverez de bons effets J'y ai parlé de vous et surtout de la bonne Madame Rouillard et de son pere, et et ai cherché de mettre votre position dans ce que je crois son vrai jour point de vue. Tout ira, je l'espère, à vos desirs, actuellement; mais si ce fût autrement, marquez le moi de suite, et malgré les inconvenients pour mes affaires je volerai à Portsmouth pour vous rendre les services à ma partie. Je connais très peu l'amiral Curtis et je n'ai guère de connaissance à Portsmouth, autrement je vous auraiz envoyé des introductions; mais il se pourrait bien être qu'il y eut quelque chose dans laquelle je vous serais fûs utile +
Merci de vos offres obligeans pour Mons. Hen. Taylor. Si vous pouvez, donnez lui les consolations que vous verrez convenables et faites le passer ici comme un blessé incurable s'il y a moyen. Je ne sais s'il ait besoin d'argent; mais il ne manque pas de moyens en Angleterre. Presentez de nouveaux mes respects et sinceres amitiés à Madame Ro Brunet et à sa famille; et croyez moi, mon cher Monsieur
Votre dévoué et affectionné serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
+ Excusez mon mauvais Francais. Je voulais m'en servir pour vous montre que je ne l'ai point oublie tout à fait
A l'egard de mon voyage, il y aura bien deux ans avant qu'il pourra sera devant le public. Deux volumes en quarto, et un atlas d'une vingtaine de cartes n'est pas une petite affaire pour un seul homme, et celui un homme point habitué à cet espece d'ouvrage je suis ecrire pour le public # On m'a fait capitaine de vaisseau depuis un an et demie; mais je devais l'etre depuis 1804 sept ans. Je vais ecrire à la poste pour que l'on vous envoit vos lettre # Le voyage de Baudin n'a pas paru en entier en huit ans, malgré le nombre des personnes employées: Je voudrais bien le voir
[Page 112]
Captain Le Marant, passenger on board the Gen. Wellesley cartel
Portsmouth
7 Mary St. Brooke St. New Road
London Sept. 4.1811
Monsieur
J'ai eu ce matin l'honneur de votre lettre du 2 dernier, mais la précédente, dont vous me parlez, ne m'est point venue. Je me suis rendu aussitot au bureau du Transport Office pour apprendre les intentions sur le sujet pressant dont vous me parler de votre lettre; et j'y ai trouvé, qu' un commissionaire de cette office bureau qui allait partir pour faire les inquêtes nécessaires pour que la justice vous soit rendu
D'après les loix des cartels, il n'y doit avoir à bord rien pour le commerce, ainsi tous ceux qui en ont le perdront probablement; mais sans doute on vous rendra toutes les choses à votre usage, y inclus votre argent. Si cependant le capitaine Tower ne deserte retira point ses pretentions, il faut que l'affaire soit apporté devant une cour d'amirauté [indecipherable] les pour être jugée, et alors les articles de la capitulation et les loix des cartels seront duement pris en considération. Mais, auparavant, le Commissionaire Bowen fera son rapport à l'amirauté; et probablement, il vous fera l'offre de vous rem embarquer sur le vaisseau transport pour France avec ce qu'il juge appropos de vos biens, ou de rester où vous êtes jusqu'à ce que l'affaire soit décidé juridiquement. Si l'on vous accorde vos effets et votre arg Alors, mon avis est, de partir si vous obtenez toutes vos effets, les choses essentielles, sans regarder une petite quantité de sucre et de caffe que l'on peut contester; mais si, au contraire, votre argent est retenu, je vous conseille, Monsieur, d'attendre, où vous êtes, l'effet du rapport du commissionaire; et après, vous pouvez partir en laissant une ou deux personnes choisies pour veiller vos intérêts devant les juges, ou rester vous même si cela vous parairtrait la partie la plus convenable
Je crois pouvoir vous assurer qu'actuellement que le gouvernement a entrepris l'affaire, la justice sera faite, et les persécutions cesseront. Mais dans le cas que vos effets vous soient disputés, et que vous ne trouvez pas convenable d'attendre le resultât, il serait bon que tous ceux qui n'ont rien à bord de ce que l'on peut considérer comme marchandise, cherchent à séparer leurs intérêts de ceux des autres, et qu'ils appointassent un agent à part: Ceci je crois être important
Il faut vous tenir aux articles de la capitulation, et à la permission donnée à l'Isle de France pour apporter vos biens et effets. Les cours d'amirauté sont si equitables, qu'il n'y a rien à craindre pour tout ce
[Page 113]
qui n'est point merchandise; et vous ne devez pas vous inquiéter. Mais j'espère que la chose n'iront pas si loin, et que le commissionaire Bowen mettra tout à l'ordre. Je lui ai beaucoup parlé à cet effet; et dans l'opinion que ma présence serait inutile ne vous serait point nécessaire, j'ai suspendu, à cause de mes affaires, le voyage à Portsmouth; et j'attends votre rapport sur le résultat.
Ayez la bonté, Monsieur de presenter mes respects et amitiés sincères à Mons. et Mad. Brunet, ainsi qu'a Madame votre épouse; et de recevoir l'assurance de mon intérêt et de ma considération
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Je n'ose vous rien dire au sujet de Monsieur votre père. Ma protection de ce côté là, est épuissée. Je vous prie d'envoyer votre prochaine sans envelope, à cause de la double poste. Ne sachant pas si vous lisiez l'Anglais, je me suis servi de votre langue, comptant sur votre indulgence
Captain Charles Hankin of the General Wellesley cartel - Portsmouth
for Mr. A. Roux
Mary Street - Oct. 9. 1811
Mon cher Monsieur
Votre lettre du 2 dernier m'est venue le 4, ainsi qu'une de M. le capitaine Marant; et aussitot je me suis rendu au Transport Office où j'ai rencontré le commissionaire Bowen, qui, par ordre de l'Amirauté, allait partir pour faire un examen strict de l'affaire entre vous et le capitaine Tower. Je lui ai f ai dit tout ce que j'ai pu à ce sujet, et à mon retour, je n'avais le temps, avant le départ de la poste, que d'ecrire quelques lignes à M. Le Marant pour lui donner mon avis sur la manière qui me parut la plus convenable d'agir dans les différens cas que pas. Ayant su du commissionaire que l'amirauté avait pris la cause en main, j'avais tout lieu de croire que la justice fût faite, et à espérer que la seule présence de Mons. Bowen mettrait fin à toutes les difficultés. J'attendais donc l'effet de son rapport à l'Amirauté; mais jusqu'à présent rien ne m'est venu ni du Général Wellesley ni d'ailleurs, à l'exception de votre lettre du 4, arrivée le 8, et écrite avant de connaitre la nouvelle disposition. J'approuve fortement la lettre que vous avez écrite à l'amirauté; et quoique la réponse de M. Croker n'est pas satisfaisante, je ne doute point que l'effet en soit a été bon
Je ne vous cache pas mon opinion, que tout ce que l'on peut trouver à bord d'objects de commerce, pourrait vous être disputé, les loix de cartels ne permettant pas qu'aucun commerce soit fait par
[Page 114]
Mons. Roux
son intermédiaire; mais tous les objets qui vous sont personnels, y compris l'argent, sont à vous de droit. Si, cependant, le capitaine Tower ne desiste pas de ses prétentions sur l'entier, personne ne peut l'empêcher de porter la cause par devant une cour judiciaire; et vous l'y défendra. Dans ce cas, je vous recommande d'en faire deux causes: Séparez les objets personels et l'argent, des d'avec les objets de commerce; et disputez les séparément. Les premiers vous seront accordés avec frais, je ne doute pas; mais pour les derniers, vous pouvez ou les perdre ou les gagner, selon la construction mise de la capitulation et des loix de cartels. Il me parait qu'en vous envoyant sur un cartel on a commis une faute d'informalite; un vaisseau de capitulation que personne n'a le droit de visiter, outre les papiers, vous aurait épargné tout ces tracas desagrements; et assurément il est bien dûr que vous souffrissiez par la faute des autres, et je crois que la cour y aura égard, car il n' y pas une de plus juste dans le monde
Voilà ce que je vous conseille au dernier resort; mais il y a toute apparence, que vos objets vous seront tous rendus; hors ceux de commerce; et alors l'importance de ces objets vous décidera ou à l'abandon ou les abandonner, ou à choisir une ou deux personnes d entre parmi vous, qui resteraient pour défendre la cause, pendant que tous les autres sembarquent pour France, si le jugement ne soit pas pas donner avant de faire voile
J'attends avec impatience de savoir le résultat de l'examen fait par le commissionaire Bowen. Si vous pensez après celà que je presse vous servir, je vous serais aussi entièrement dévoué que la mauvaise santé actuelle de ma femme me permettra. Il faut savoir, cependant, que depuis mon arrivée que j'ai tant tracassé l'amirauté dernierement, relativement aux cinq créoles partis et autres affaires, que je n'ai pas grand espoir de faire d'obtenir par faveur beaucoup de ce côté-là; mais instruisez moi toujours de l'état de vos affaires, et soyez assuréz que ni le zéle ni les peines ne seront pas épargnés.
Envoyez vos lettres sans enveloppe, car l'on fait payer l'envelope comme une seconde lettre; et croyez moi, mon cher Monsieur,
Votre dévoué et affectionné serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Je ne me rappele point d'avoir connu M. Barault, mais je vous prie de lui présenter mes compliments, ainsi qu'a M. Prevost. Mes hommages et amitiés sincères toujours à la famille Brunet.
[Page 115]
Gretham Esq. Naval Judge - advocate to the Portsea - Hants - For Mons. A. Roux
Mary Street - October 14. 1811
My dear Sir
I was beginning to be uneasy at not hearing from you, or any person of the Wellesley; and three some days ago went to the Transport Office, in order to learn from commissioner Bowen what was the result of his inquiry; but he had not then returned from Portsmouth. I proposed to repeat my visit this day; but your acceptable letter of the 12. has rendered it unnecessary. If you are [Being furnished with permissions for embarking all the money there was on board, there can not be the least doubt of its being awarded to you: with respect to the merchandise, we must obtain good advice legal advice; and in this respect, Mr. Greetham will doubtless be useful to you
It will give me great pleasure to see you in London; and be assured that every thing in my power, shall be done to assist you and those with whose interests you are charged. A lodging, either in this street, or wher in any part of the town that may be most convenient, can be procured for you at an hour's notice; and so soon as I know the day you propose to be in London, I will engage one ready against that time. With respect to a proctor, having fortunately had no occasion, as yet, to employ one, I am somewhat at a loss; but will consult my agent, and be prepared with an answer against the time of your arrival.
You will doubtless see our friends in the Orlando again before their departure; and I beg of you to assure them of my earnest desire to be render them service, and of my best wishes for their spe happy arrival amongst their friends in France. The treatment they have undergone will I fear, give them no very favourable idea of the people in this country; but I trust the result will convince them, that our laws do not per and the public opinion, do not permit individuals to commit acts of injustice and oppression with impunity. To the worthy sister of my dear friend Pitot I beg you my dear Sir to say for me every thing that is friendly and affectionate kind, on the part of
your affectionate and devoted servt.
Mattw. Flinders
I request that, in future, you will not pay the postage of your letters, but only to send them sans enveloppe
[Page 116]
Mr. A. Roux, Mons Greethams Esq. Judge advocate - Portsea
Mary St. Oct. 15. 1811
My dear Sir
I had already taken the advice of my agent, and in my own mind fixed upon a proctor to defend your cause; but so soon as I received your letter this morning, I sought such further advice upon the subject as appeared to me necessary, and then concluded to go to Mr. N. Gossling, the gentleman pointed out to you by Mr. Greetham; and so far as I am at present able to judge, think you could not have fallen into better hands.
I have explained to him the general nature of your case and situation; and he seems to gre entertain greater hopes upon the whole of the business, than I ventured to express to you. He assures that the judge of the admiralty court will by no means consider you to be responsible for any irregularity committed by the government of the I. of France; nor will you be condemned for any trifling infraction of the usual customs that you may have been innocently been done from ignorance He will write you tomorrow, and direct your proceedings; and in the mean desires time authorises me to advise you not to give consent to the removal of anything out of the General Wellesley without an order from the admiralty court: if captain Tower moves any thing, let it be at his own responsibility. Thus far, I have fulfilled your your commission; I hope, satisfactorily
Doctors Commons is near a league from my house; and I put the question to Mr. Gossling, whether it was necessary, or would be more convenient, that your lodging should be near him? There was, he said, no necessity, but he should probably want to see you once every day; so that, my dear Sir, you must say before I take a lodging for you, whether it should be near him, or near me, or at an intermediate distance: they lodgings can be had in any part of London, and the difference of expense is trifling
I recommend you to make a note of all the particular circumstances of oppression, that you and the other passengers may have suffered from the detainers: the proctor may probably be able to introduce some of them in the court, with advantage
Mr. N. Gossling says he is a bad Frenchman, and therefore you must, I believe, write to him in English: take care ayez soin que votre écriture soit bien lisible; and he will then understand you very well, I dare say.
Adieu for the present: the post will not wait for me
P.S. I have not the honour of
knowing Mr. Greetham, but I respect him Yours very sincerely
for taking interest in the affairs of unprotected Mattw. Flinders
strangers, and beg you to present him with my compliments
[Page 117]
Mr. A. Roux, Mons Greetham's Esq. Judge advocate - Portsea - Hants
Mary St. Fitzroy Square Oct. 19. 1811
My dear Sir
So soon as I received your letter of the 17th. I paid a visit to Mr. Gossling, your proctor, to consult upon the steps necessary to be taken for you and Mr. Barrault to remain in London. I went thence to the Transport Office, where I saw commissioner Bowen
It appears, that the regulations of the Transport Office do not allow of any foreigners remaining in London, upon Parole. Reading has been chosen from amongst the different depôts, as the most favourably situated for you; and an application to the office, through the agent at Reading, you will be allowed to come to London in which you are to representing the necessity of coming to London on account of your business, a permission will granted. When you are in London, in a fresh representation of its being that it is necessary for you to remain until the trial comes on, this also will be granted to you will obtain you the desired permission; so that the fixing you at Reading is more a form of office than any thing else. The commissioner assured me, that so far from putting any obstacle in your way to your obtaining justice in such way as you and your proctor may wish; there is a desire on the part, both of the Admiralty and Transport Office, to give you every reasonable accommodation and to facility to your wishes. This information I should have given you yesterday, but I was not returned home, in time enough for the post.
I think then, my dear Sir, that when your business is concluded at Portsmouth, you and Mr. Barrault should go to Reading; and when your families are fixed there, you yourself, or both if necessary, should apply to come to London; and on being informed of the time, I will take a lodging for you for one week, in such situation as you may wish point out. We can afterwards agree upon your future proceedings
Mr. Gossling informed me that he had written to you on the 16th. The papers which he requests, should be forwarded to him as soon as possible: Mr. Greetham will advise you upon the best mode of sending them. I learned from the commissioner, that there are two or three French and several Danish officers at Reading, living there on the upon their parole. It is 39 miles from London; and there are stage coaches passing through it several times every day +
I should suppose, that our friends in the Orlando are sailed, and have probably reached before this for Morlaix: my best wishes attend them. I am my dear Sir
your affectionate and devoted servant
Mattw. Flinders
+ It is Mr. Gosslings opinion, as well as my own, that you should neither consent to the removal of any thing from the Wellesley, or take any acknowledgement, if captain Tower thinks proper to remove any thing. When the inventory is completed you have only to wait the decision of the Court of Admiralty
[Page 118]
Dr Burney, Academy, Gosport, Hants
7 Mary Street, Fitzroy Square
Oct. 19. 1811
Dear Sir
At the request desire of Mr. Hollingworth, I inclose the regulations of the military academy at Woolwich, and request you will have the goodness to state for which his younger son Joseph is entered as a candidate; and request you will after the goodness to state, whether he can be properly qualified in your academy, to pass his examination.
May I beg, that at the same time you will favour me with an some account of the progress my two young friends Wiles and Hollingworth are making in their studies; and how far you think them fitted, from their abilities and dispositions, for the naval service
I have the honour to remain, dear Sir,
your most obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Translation and collation of papers sent to me by Monsieur Roux
To the Editor of the Statesman -
On board the General Wellesley
Portsmouth Oct. 20. 1811
Sir
We the undersigned, agents for the passengers on board the General Wellesley cartel, having observed seen in the Statesman of the 14. and in the Bath Chronicle of the 18th. last, some observations upon our detention by His Majesty's frigate the Curaçoa; by which it is evident, that the public is misinformed in what concerns us; we herewith send therefore beg to make known, through your paper what are the real circumstances of the case
By the capitulation, under which the Isle of France was surrendered, all private property was to be respected, and such inhabitants as might choose to return to France, might do it within two years, with their property and effects, on board transports properly fitted as cartels at the expense of the British government.
We, in consequence, availed ourselves of this privilege, at our [indecipherable] and embarked on board the General Wellesley; to the number of 120 persons, for France; and governor Farquhar having thought proper to prohibit the exportation of money, without permission from the government, we obtained permissions for 77,500 dollars, being part of our respective properties, the rest consisting in such articles as are, for the most part, the produce of the colony. [Captain Tower of the Curaçoa overtook us on the passage; and brought the General Wellesley, a transport fitted as a cartel instead of returning to our country, we an English were brought to England in the hope of making her a prize and dispossessing us of our property and the [indecipherable] our property dispossessed of all that we had embarked; with the exception of what appertained to our persons
We do not wish to enter into the circumstances of oppression which, after a passage of 7 months and even cruelty super added to this violation of the treaty super added to this violation of the treaty [indecipherable] Sir Roger Curtis and captain Wood [indecipherable] It will be suffiient to say, that on arriving in an English port, after being 7 months at sea the sentries placed in every part of the ship, refused to suffer
[Page 119]
children and lying-in women to receive milk from the shore. But all the means used to make us embark in another transport for Morlaix, and leave all our property at the mercy of the captors, even the presen threat of employing, and the presence of, an armed force were unavailing. We had been taught, that no individual in this country, could commit acts of crue injustice and oppression with impunity, and we appealled to the Honourable Board of Admiralty
The Commissioner Bowen was then sent down; and here we have been surprised and grieved to see how unjustly that respectable gentleman has been attacked, and how much his mission has been misrepresented. He came, first, to listen to our complaints; secondly, to offer to the French passengers, but without any constraint, to embark in the Orla transport Orlando, leaving such persons to look after their interests as they might choose. It was is very distressing to abandon To abandon property embarked under the faith of a capitulation is very distressing; but the desire of returning to their country, and the still more pressing one of getting beyond the reach of the vexations and the bayonets of captain Tower, prevailed; and 110 + officers [indecipherable] persons agreed to to go to M in the Orlando, Their baggage and we owe it to truth to say, that during the presence of commissioner persons embraced accepted the offer of going to France in the Orlando; and with their hearts full of grief and indignation, sailed for Morlaix. Their baggage and many of their persons were searched; but it is a hommage we owe to Commissioner Bowen and captain Woodriff, who could [indecipherable] their indignation taken the proceedings, to say, that so long as they were present, the search was conducted with less severity and [indecipherable]than on the following days
The Bath Chronicle says, the Wellesley was detained because she had on board a rich cargo, consisting of indigo, tortoise-shell, sugar, cotton, coffee etc. besides 200,000 dollars. Had this really been we really possessed so much, we conceive the capitulation gave us a right to it; bu but an inventory has been taken, and this rich cargo of a ship of 500 tons is reduced to sixty tons; of which the seven-eights are coarse raw sugar, and the rest consists of small quantities of indigo, coffee, cotton, and a few pounds tortoise shell: the whole, divided amongst 120 persons, gives half a ton weight to each. The 200,000 dollars are reduced, by the inventory, to the value of 67,064, in silver, gold, and bullion being less than our permissions specify. Of this sum, the 110 passengers, gone in the Wellesley Orlando, have been allowed to take with them 16,081, being the dollars, being 146 or £36.3 for each. When it is considered, that the passengers consist of officers, civil and military, merchants, planters and ladies; and that and thatmany of them have 600 miles to travel from Morlaix, before reaching their hopes; certainly there was nothing the praise of liberality cannot be given to captain Tower, for suffering them to take £36.3 of their own money to bear their expenses at Morlaix and on their journey
We are now waiting for the decision of the court of Admiralty but, although unprotected strangers, we trust that our hopes of justice from that respectable court will not be disappointed
We have the honour to salute you
We are, Sir, your obedient humble servants
+ officers civil and military, merchants, planters (Signed) Barault
women and children A. Roux
[Page 120]
To the Statesman
We conceive Sir, that there is a distinction to be made betwixt a cartel carrying prisoners of war, and a transport fitted as a cartel, carrying individuals who return freely to their country by virtue of capitulation; and also, that if the government of the Isle of France has committed any irregularity in the form or manner of sending us, that we ought not to be the victims of such irregularity
We are now waiting the decision of the Court of Admiralty; and although unprotected strangers, we trust that our hopes of justice from that respectable court will not be disappointed. To administer consolation, and repair the vexations and ill treatment which 25 ladies, 12 children etc. etc. have undergone, is now too late; but we trust, that our hopes of justice from that honourable court,
(Signed) Barault
in what concerns their property, will not be disappointed
A.Roux
We have, Sir, the honour to salute you
(Signed) Barault
A. Roux
Mr. A. Roux, Mons Greetham's Esq. Portsea - Hats
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square - London
Oct. 22. 1811
My dear Sir
By the letter you will have received today from Mr. Gossling, you will have been assured of your packet of the 20th. having reached me safely and its contents being, in part, complied with. The distance at which I am from your proctor, and the necessity I found of seeing commissioner Bowen before inserting anything in the gazettes, did not allow me time to write you yesterday.
Last night and this morning I have been occupied in reducing into one letter addressed to the Statesman, the substance of the two papers inclosed to me. I have used the liberty you gave me, in putting the matter of both into such form as appeared to me best suited to your purpose, - in suppressing and modifying certain parts, - in adding one or two little circumstances from your preceding letters, - and finally, in putting writing the whole in your name and that of Mr. Barault Having completed the letter in a manner to excite, as I think, the public opinion in your favour; I have taken it to a friend, and got him to ask whether of the editor whether he would insert it free of expense. The said editor not being at home, I shall not know the result till tomorrow. The soonest that it can appear, will be in the Statesman of tomorrow evening. but pos [I must request that you will not, in England at least, make any mention of the share I had in this letter; but that you and Mr. Barault will avow it as the translation, made by a friend of your own paper letter your own. The facts you will find exactly conformable to your own papers; and as to composition, I trust you will not see occasion to be ashamed of it
In your packet, was inclosed a letter from Madame Brunet. She therein mentions letters which she desires me to forward to the Isle of France, but which I do not find in the packet. They are probably in your hands, and I shall receive from you them on your arrival in London
The next letter I receive from you will, I hope, be dated at
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Reading; for Mr. Gossling desires your presence in London as early as possible. He thinks the trial may come on in eight or ten days. He will have told you, that if you have an inventory of all the money and effects, signed by captain Tower or his agents, that you require nothing further. He and they are answerable to the court of Admiralty, for producing every thing contained in that inventory; and I would recommend you to get to Reading, and make your application, through the agent, to the Transport board, to come to London, as speedily as you can
I remain, my dear Sir, your affectionate and devoted servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mrs. Carr - Druggist - Louth - Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square - London
Oct. 27. 1811
My dear Madam
We left our former lodgings about three weeks since, and are now fixed in a situation which has as much of the country in it, as we can have to live in London. Your letter, nevertheless, came safely, through the kind attention of the person whose house we left.
The situation I had obtained from Dr. Jamison for William, is now lost for this year; and whether any similar one can be found for him, next spring, is a matter of great uncertainty. My opinion therefore is, that he should not quit the Charles unles yet, unless he has himself some better situation in view.
Had he passed through the hospitals, attended lectures, and was well qualified both in surgery and medicine, I dare say I might be able to push him forward in the navy; but this is not being the case and therefore I cannot recommend him as such; and what is worse, my dear aunt, and grieves me to say, I have heard of many circumstances, which render it impossible for me to recommend him as a diligent, prudent, and sober young man. This being the case, I have to fear, that were it in my favour to were I get him an advantageous situation in the navy, he would soon lose it and perhaps bring with discredit upon to himself and to me; and this you know my wishes to serve him would thus be turned to his disadvantage
All things considered, I think, if he quits the Charles, he had better stick to his profession as a druggist, for which I suppose him to be qualified; for I do not see, under all the circumstances of the case, that I can be of any real service to him in the navy. -
Will you be good enough to give him such part of your this letter as you see proper. Should he write to me, as you say he intends, I will then give him an answer.
Mrs. Pearson left Boston, some time since. They are now at St. Ives.
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Mrs. Carr
St. Ives with Mr. Pearson's brother. My sister has had a most unfortunate lying in of her last child, and is yet far from being recovered
My brother is living in London and is tolerably well, as is also my dear wife. They both join in kind wishes and remembrances to you and our cousins, with, my dear Madam
your affectionate friend and nephew
Mattw. Flinders
James Brown Esq. 6 George St Edinburgh
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square - London
Oct. 27. 1811
Dear Sir
A week since, I had a letter from Dr. Burney, speaking in the most favourable terms of our young friend Henry Wiles, as being particularly attentive. "He has got through all the sailings, and is just beginning days works. He has also nearly finished the first book of Euclid, which he says to me instead of grammar lessons, as I find him very correct both in Latin and English grammar."
After this favourable report, it will grieve you, dear Sir, as it did me, to know, that Henry and young Hollingworth decamped from the Academy, with another boy on the 24th. last. According to Dr. Burney's letter received yesterday, there had been some improper noise made and a complaint made by one of the masters. A task was imposed, which Henry got performed without a murmur; but young Hollingworth and some others refused, and were punished. Next day our two youngsters, seduced, as Dr. Burney thinks, by Whitfield, a boy of sixteen, set off; but why Henry should have gone seemed unaccountable; but I am willing to attribute it solely to friendship for young Hollingworth; and that the too great goodness of his heart has led him to commit this fault.
An hour after the doctors' letter was received, I was informed that the two culprits were at my door; come, they said, to go to sea! After paying the debt with which they came charged, and representing to them the folly and impropriety of their conduct, I took places for them in the Portsmouth coach, and last evening sent them off again, with a letter to Dr. Burney.
This has been a sad freak of my young protegees indeed, and has between them they have put me to the expense of £ 4, besides giving me a good deal of uneasiness. I am willing to look over it, in the hope that their future conduct will be improved by this lesson of from finding by experience, in shewing them
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that they must depend upon their friends, and not pretend, as yet, to be the masters of their proceedings
I will not close this letter until I can say from Dr. Burney, that they are arrived at Gosport, and how they have conducted themselves on since parting from me
I remain dear Sir, with esteem
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
I have had a letter from our friend at Jamaica, by the last packet; but at the date of it, he had not received mine, informing him of the situation of his son, and requesting his sentiments upon the subject. I think Henry will be so far advanced at the Christmas vacation, that if his father sent thinks as I do, I shall look out for a ship for him about that time. I have told his father, that the expense of fitting him out will be about £50; and that the captain should be authorised to indorse his bills for about £20 a year so long as he remains a midshipman; except in such years as he may receive that sum in prize money. Will you be so good as to say, whether you have authority
to advance these sums, in case we should not get letters in time. It is necessary to know this before taking any steps; for my own straitened circumstances, combined with the expenses I am at present obliged to incur, will not allow incapacitate me to make them from making them
Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street Hull
Same date and tenor; but inclosing Dr. Burneys letter
J. W. Croker Esq. Admiralty Office[Page 124]
Mr. Croker
as a matter of write right, then to private favour; and should therefore be very glad if their Lordships would order the application to be renewed in an official form now that general DeCaen is at Paris.
In case their Lordships should not think proper to renew the application; would you have the goodness to say, whether there it would be considered an impropriety in me to write to the French marine minister, through the medium of my friend at Paris?
I have the honour to be, dear Sir,
your faithful and obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Wiles Esq. - Liguanea - Jamaica
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square - London
Nov. 6. 1811
My dear friend
Your last letter, of August 9. was received on the 3 October. The complaint you there make of not having heard from me by the two previous packets, as also the wish expressed that something decisive should be done with Henry, will both have been answered by letters long since received. I shall now tell you how Henry has gone on, at the academy at Gosport.
In a letter dated Oct. 21. last Dr. Burney writes, "I am happy in having it in my power to give you a very good account of young Wiles and Hollingworth, who are going on much to my satisfaction with their studies. Wiles is particularly attentive, and is much the best scholar of two. He has got through all the sailings, and is just beginning days works. He has also nearly finished the first book of Euclid's Elements, which he says to me instead of grammar lessons, as I found him very correct, both in Latin and English grammar."
You will judge of my surprise and disappointment, in receiving another letter from the doctor, a few days after; saying, that my two youngsters had decamped from the school, in company with another boy! There had, it seems, been some improper noise made in the room where they slept, and the whole party concerned were imposed tasks. Henry got his without a murmur, but Hollingworth and some others rebelled, and were punished: Next day they eloped
An hour after the letter was received, I was told the two youths were at my door, and a man waiting for a debt they had contracted for carriage and food. I set them at liberty, lectured them; and the same evening sent them down in the Portsmouth coach with a letter to Dr. Burney. They performed their promise to me, and went safe to Gosport. The doctor says in a future letter, "I was never more deceived in any two lads than in these two, as they both stood high in my estimation, particularly Wiles. I shall let you known very candidly how they
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they go on, from time to time."
Now, my dear friend, your son has rather gained than lost in my estimation by this act of folly. Both boys were Young Hollingworth was enticed to it by the older boy that went with them; and Henry, who had neither been punished or had anything to fear, has gone purely out of friendship for his companion: it has been the goodness of his heart that has led him astray.
They both complained that Dr. Burney was severe; but in an academy of 90 great boys, it is proper he should be so, otherwise the proper his authority could not be preserved. Since Henry appears so far advanced, and both he, you, and Mr. Brown seem to wish it, I think of sending him off at, or soon after, Christmas; and I wait only to know how far you approve of what I conceive to be the proper expense of his outfit, in order to find a ship for him. I have not a single friend in active service in England, as a commander; but I think of requesting the favour of captain Walker of the Bedford to take him. John Franklin is third lieut. in her and will look after him
I wrote to Mr. Brown, informing him of Henry's faux-pas; and requesting to know, in case we should not hear from you before Christmas, whether he had authority to advance £50 or £60 for Henry's outfit, and to answer his bills for £20 or £30 per annum; to be drawn so long as he remains a midshipman, and does not receive an equal sum of prize money. For I told him, my great expenses and inadequate finances put it out of my power to do it
If Mr. Brown answers in the affirmative, I shall immediately take the necessary steps for getting him into the Bedford; if not, we must wait till we have letters from you
I have changed my lodging, as you will see by the date; but in every thing else am going on as before. I write as hard as possible; for I it would ruin me to remain long in London, without some assistance from the government; and I much fear it will give me none
Mrs. Flinders is very well at this time, and we believe, in the family way. She joins her compliments, to the best wishes of
your faithful and sincerely affect. friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Mr. Hance has never given me call.
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Mons. Philippe Desbassayns Rue Pigale No. 36 - à Paris
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square - London
Nov. 11. 1811
Dear Sir
On Oct. 30 I had the honour to receive, by the hands of Mr. Dorr, your obliging letter of Sept. 30, and beg to express my acknowledgements for the interest you take in the affair of my journal and parole. The British admiralty long since addressed a letter to the French government upon this subject, and received for answer that until information was received of the circumstances from the captain general of the I. of France, no steps could be taken. When general DeCaen arrived, a second application was made; and it was then said, that the general had not been to Paris, nor was the neces requisite information received; but that an answer should be given, so soon as these took place
Finding by your letter, that no steps were taking, relative either to my journal or parole, I requested the Admiralty to write again, which has been complied with; but whether this application will be more successful than the preceding, is a matter of doubt. If, Sir, you would see an opening to remind His Excellency the marine minister of the circumstance, I should feel myself obliged; and should the answer to the Admiralty be still evasive, I will then obtain permission to write to His Excellency myself, and accept and avail myself of your obliging offer to present and support it my letter.
General DeCaen is perfectly correct in saying, that no other than one journal was kept from me. That he should be surprised at my considering myself disabled from serving, surprises me. The parole which he required me to sign on quitting the I. of France, expresses the unconditional promise of "not serving during the against France or her allies during the war", which is more than is ever required of a prisoner of war, since they are "not getting in any service which might be considered as directly or indirectly hostile to France, or her allies, during the course of the present war". Prisoners are usually allowed the benefit of exchange, which but this is denied to me. Until, therefore, my parole is returned, or the French government makes a formal renunciation of it, I must consider myself [indecipherable] from active service myself to be bound by this parole not to serve.
What you say of avoiding all personality in the account of my voyage, perfect accords with my own ideas. I shall no otherwise attack general DeCaen, than by giving a plain narrative of the circumstances of my imprisonment; but even this may probably be disagreeable to him; for the imprisonment during six years and a half of a shipwrecked seaman, employed in a service from for the benefit of all nations, and bearing a passport which promised coming to claim the assistance and protection in every port where he might find it necessary to touch, promised in his passport; is a circumstance which accords neither will the generally received ideas of justice or of humanity. What reasons the general can assign for so doing; and for referring the decision of the Council of State to keeping me three years after he had received the decision of the Council of State directing me to be set at liberty, without any condition, and my books and papers to be restored I am wholly at a loss to conjecture.
I am flattered by your request of having my book transmitted for the purpose of translation; but it is, as yet, so little advanced, that I dare not venture
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venture to say anything upon the subject. I fear it will be two years, before all the charts and the account can be completed
It gives me pleasure to hear from Mr. Dorr, that Mr. Henry Desbassayns was safely arrived at the Cape, and was about to sail for the Isle of France. He is the my oldest acquaintance in your family; but it was with Charles that I had the most intimate communication. It was to me a subject of much satisfaction, that the letter I gave to your much esteemed brother Panon at the I. of France, had the desired effect of procuring his speedy liberation; and it gives me additional pleasure, in that it has been the means of procuring obtaining me the honour of your correspondence, and obtaining the advantage of your friendly interest in an affair which nearly concerns me. May I request the favour of being recalled to the friendly recollection of your worthy brother; and that you will believe me to be with much sincerity, Dear Sir
your obliged and faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
J.W. Croker Esq. Admiralty Office Nov. 13. 1811
Requesting Mr. Chamisso to be excepted from the general measure of confining all the French midshipman
Rear-admiral Wm. Bligh - 3 Durham Place - Lambeth
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Nov. 13. 1811
Sir
I have the honour to transmit you, the extracts from the Introduction to the Investigators voyage, which I mentioned to you this morning. Such corrections and omissions as you may wish to be made, shall be adopted; and I would add such additions also, did not the necessary limits of an introduction, and the number of articles it will contain, restrain necessarily restrain the extent of each article to narrow bounds. The names you may judge proper to apply to the islands in Torres Strait, will be adopted used; I think it necessary to premiss only, that your B and C were previously named Murray's Islands by captain Edwards.
Allow me to repeat, that if you think proper yourself to write yourself an abridged account of your passage through the strait, and upon the plan, nearly, of the sheets here submitted to your inspection; it shall be adopted in preference, and given as your communication. But should you approve of what I have written, after such corrections as may appear to you proper; then, if it conforms to your wish, I will mention its having been communicated to you, and having met your approbation. My wis desire is to conform in this, is to do what is agreeable to your wishes, as fully as the limits of my plan will allow.
I have the honour to be, with respect, Sir
Your very obed. humble servant Mattw. Flinders
P.S. The longitudes by time keepers corrected
given, are by your time keepers corrected by a proportional [indecipherable] error they were found to have acquired between ?Tahiety and Coepang
[Page 128]
Mrs. Flinders, Donington near Boston, Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street, Brooke St. Fitzroy Sq.
London Nov. 14. 1811
My dear Madam
I duly received your acceptable letter of Oct. 25; and on Monday last we got the goose. Samuel joined us in eating it yesterday, and a very excellent was one it was: we all join unite in thanks to you for it. I have intended, for this some time, to send you, towards Christmas, a barrel of London oysters. Shall I direct it to Gosberton bar, and tell you when to send for it? or had you rather it was sent to the care of Wm. Flinders at Boston (to whom I shall send the same), and request him to send forward it by Wells? Pray say in your first letter which method you prefer.
We are extremely happy to hear that you are gaining strength, though it is but slowly. By persevering in the plan laid down by Mr. Orton, we hope your health will be perfectly restored; though, in all probability it will be gradual.
Some time since I received a letter from Mr. Gleed, requesting me to send down the deeds of Mr. Large's house etc. for his inspection. It is thoug rather strange that he should not have first spoken to you, who are on the spot, before he put me to the expense of an unnecessary letter. I referred him to you for the deeds, and for the probate of my fathers will. I hope they are not now going to raise obstacles about the purchase. Between ourselves, I am very glad that the purchase money was lodged in the hands of Mr. Barnard
The 15s. you have paid to Mr. Newcomb, must be deducted from the £2; and therefore you will receive it, together with the interest that may have arisen upon the whole purchase money. I paid £1.0.6 for the advertisement in London, and the remaining 4/6 will go towards paying the postage of Mr. Gleed's letters
Mr. Walkers opinion is, that the £550 should be put into the Navy 5 per cents; there being no probability of placing it out upon a mortgage, where you could avoid paying the income tax. He proposes also, that it should be put in, in the names of Franklin, Hursthouse and Walker, by which means he can receive the dividends without the expense of a bank power being incurred. This plan, if you cannot get a mortgage without paying income tax, which I am afraid you cannot, appears to me the best that can be adopted.
Mr. Gleed will, I suppose, tell either you or me very soon, whether the deeds are sufficient, and what plan he proposes to have for signing the conveyance: I can not say, but I wish to know all particulars as soon as possible.
Samuel is in tolerable, though not in strong health: He
[Page 129]
lives near us, and dines here frequently. He has no prospect, at present, of promotion; but is employed in calculating astronomical observations; though I fear it will not prove very advantageous to him. Our situation in Mary Street is much pleasanter than the former one, being close to the open fields near Highgate and Hampstead. My Mrs. Flinders has had her health much better lately, though perhaps the change of situation has not been the sole cause; for, to let you, my dear mother, into a secret, we expect, if all goes well, to announce to you the birth of ano a grand child in March or April next.
Mrs Procter has been very large for some time, but it seems uncertain whether a child, or fat, is the cause: she has been expecting these two three months; but is yet as active and as well as ever
Pray present our united remembrances to Mrs. Dodd and Henrietta, and to all our friends
Mrs. Pearson, I am happy to hear, is better and returned to St. Ives - Pray present our united remembrances to Mrs. Dodd and Henrietta and to all friends; and believe me, my dear Madam
your very affectionate friend and son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Louis de Chamisso, French prisoner
Brooke St.
7 Mary Street-Fitzroy Square London
Nov. 15. 1811
Dear Sir
On the evening of the 12. I received your letter from Odiham dated on the 11. and next morning went down to the Transport Office to inquire into the circumstance of the French officers on parole at Odiham, being removed to Scotland. I was there informed, that the French government having put into prison all the English prisoners officers of the class of midshipman, on account of some few having broken their parole; and having returned no answer to an application from the Transport Board, requesting that the guilty alone should be punished, and the innocent set at liberty, the English government found itself obliged to use the same vigour towards all French midshipmen. That, therefore, the troops arrived at Odiham, were not to conduct for the purpose of conducting the officers to Odi Scotland, but to a prison. On further inquiry I found, to my great regret, that your name was on the list of midshipmen; and that the order from the admiralty being positive the Transport Board had no power to make any exception
I immediately wrote a letter to the secretary of the admiralty, stating the confidence I had in your honour, the recommendation you had from the I. of France, and requesting you might be excepted from this the general rule.
[Page 130]
Mr. Chamisso
rule. This I did from the Transport Office, where I received your letter dated Oct. 20, requesting me to point out the means by which you could send letters to the Isle of France.
Yesterday evening I received your letter dated the 12, from Alton; and soon after an answer from the Secretary of the Admiralty, which says "the measure being intended to oblige the French government to treat our midshipmen properly, there can be no exception made on account of any private applicant." Thus I am sorry to say, there appears to be no hope of your returning to Odiham, until the French emperor shall rescind his cruel order
With respect to letters for the Isle of France, if you send them open to me, through the Transport Office, I will forward them; with pleasure and it will at all times give me pleasure to render you such services as may be in my power: unfortunately for you and many others of your countrymen in misfortune that power is very little.
I remain, dear Sir with with best wishes best wishes for your health and speedy release, your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Madame Brunet, Passenger on board the Orlando, cartel, Cowes Road
I. of Wight
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London le 18 Nov. 1811
Madame et amie
Votre lettre du 7 dernier, Le 13 dernier J'ai eu l'honneur de recevoir le 13. au Transport Office; mais comme il y eut eu alors deux jours de vents favorables, je vous croyais déja arrivée en France. Hièr au soir, j'ai appris avec regret que l'Orlando était encore toujours en Angleterre, et avec plus encore, que la santé de Madame Le Marant se trouvait détériorée.
Messieurs Barrault et Roux demeurent No. 3 Warwick Court, Holborn, London, à laquelle adresse une lettre leur parviendra par la poste. Leurs affaires sont en bon train; mais rien encore n'est décidé. C'est l'opinion du procteur, et de toute autre personne qui-en est instruite, que non seulement l'argent, mais que tous les objets de reclamations [indecipherable] seront adjugés; peut-etre avec frais et dommages. La décision doit avoir lieu vers la fin de ce mois-ci.
A l'egard du sujet principal de votre lettre, ma chere dame, je crains que rien ne peut se faire actuellement. Un ordre de l'Amirauté a défendu des échanges particulier faits en mer, pour des personnes denommées. L'on veut que les plus anciens prisonniers soient les prémiers pour être échangés. Tout l'espoir que j'aie pu obtenir, c'est qu'en un mois ou six semaines, on attend des réponses du gouvernement Français aux propositions faites par le Transport Office, relativement aux prisonniers dans les deux pays. Si elles sont favorables, il y a espoir que Mons. Le Marant, ainsi
[Page 131]
que pleusieurs autres prisonniers, seront renvoyés. Soyez assurée, ma chère dame, que si je pourrais avancer cet objet désiré, j'y employerais tous mes efforts; malheureusement, comme je vous ai déja dit, ma protection de ce côté-là, a été epuisé en obtenant le renvoi des cinq créoles à l'I. de France
L'on ma dit que Mons. le capitaine le Marant a demandé la permission de rester à terre pour la santé de sa femme, et de rentrer en France après, par la voie de Douvres. Ce dernier est impossible, sans une permission expresse du gouvernement Francais; et il est très rare, pour ne pas dire jamais, de l'obtenir qu'une telle permission a été accordée
Ayez la bonté, ma chère dame, de présenter mes respects et compliments à Mons. et Madame Le Marant, ainsi qu'a Monsieur Brunet; et de me croire, avec beaucou attachement,
Votre très dévoué serviteur et ami
Mattw. Flinders
Madame Brunet etc Sent to the Transport Office
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square London
Ma chère dame le 20 Novembre 1811
Je viens de recevoir votre lettre du 16 dernier. Votre malheureuse position me fait infiniment de peine; et tous mes efforts pour l'ameliorer vous sont dévoués.
Dans ma lettre du 18, je vous ai marqué l'impossibilité de passer par la voie de Douvres; toute communication avec la France, etant à l'exception de la voie de Morlaix, etant défendue par Bonaparte. Si vous desiriez rester en Angleterre jusqu'a l'été, je tacheriez de vous obtenir la permission pour vous et votre famille de descendre à terre, mais Si celà n 'est point votre intention, comme je le pense, de descendre en descendant vous feriez auriez à repasser encore par toutes les mêmes difficultés et inconvénients; puisque l'Orlando fera voile, sans doute, au premier moment instant de vent favorable; et dans le moment où j'ecris, le vent est du nord.
Je ne puis espérer que l'on permettra a Mons. Le Marant de rester à terre autrement que comme prisonnier dans de certains limits, sur parole. Si cela ne vour gênéra pas trop, et vous desiriez, en effect, dattendre l'été prochain, écrivez une lettre au Transport Office, sous enveloppe à mon adresse; et je l'enverrai avec une lettre de moi, appuyant la demande; et j'ai grand espoir, ma chère dame, qu'elle ne serait point refusée.
Dans ma precedente lettre, je vous ai marqué que les affaires de Messieurs Barrault et Roux, sont en bon train. Il n'y a guère de doute que la décision ne leur soit favorable en entier; et elle doit avoir lieu vers la fin
[Page 132]
Mad. Brunet
la fin de ce mois ci. Je suis fâché de ne pouvoir vous donner [indecipherable] d' espoir à present sur la liberation du frère de Mons. le Marant. Dans un mois ou six semaines il y a quelque probabilité qu'un changement pourrait s'effectuer dans la position des prisonniers dans de deux pays; et soyez assurée que je ne manquer'ai une occasion d'avancer cet objet de vos desirs
Qu'un vent favorable peut mettre fin à toutes vos peines, ma chère et bonne dame, et que le plaisir d'un prompte arrivée en France, vous fasse oublier ce que les malheureux circonstances vous ont fait eprouver ici, sont les voux ardents
de votre tres affectionné ami et dévoué
serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Dans tous les cas, ma chère dame, je vous prie de m'écrire, si les circonstances le permetent ou de me faire écrire, aussitot la reception de cette lettre; et si je puis en quelque ce soit vous être utile, expliquez le directement comme à un ami dévoué. Votre lettre pour l'Isle de France partira par la première occasion
James Brown Esq. Gatton side House Melrose near Berwick
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Sq. Dec. 2. 1811
Dear Sir
I received a letter by the last packet from our friend Wiles; in answer to one, wherein I stated to him the expenses of the Gosport academy, and that which would be necessary to fitting his son out for sea. His answer upon these points, is not very explicit: It is as follows "I certainly had not calculated upon any extra education for Henry, as I thought he had already lost time; but I leave him entirely to you and my friend Mr. Brown. Perhaps you can get In a former letter had had said, my friend Brown will fit Henry out for sea. [indecipherable] he was not then aware of any great expense Whether you may conceive the above sufficient authority for advancing the expense of Henry's outfit, I cannot tell, but should be glad to know. Something must certainly be done with Henry him at Christmas; and as I judge him to be pretty well prepared and that sending him to sea will be the shortest expense, I shall today write to inform Dr. Burney, that he will leave him at the Ch next vacation.
Should you not conceive yourself authorised to advance the outfit, which I shall take care shall be as moderate as possible, I must take it upon myself, until express directions are received upon the head. The Bedford of 74, belonging to the Flushing squadron is the ship I have fixed upon for Henry; as I can there put him under the care of Lieut. Franklin, who sailed with me. So soon as I hear from Dr. Burney I shall
[Page 133]
I shall write to captain Walker, to request the favour of his being received on board.
With respect to the £2, expense of Henry's foolish frolic, I will put it at the bottom of Dr. Burneys bill before transmitting it to you agreeably to your proposition.
May I beg the favour of your early answer; and that you will believe me to be, with esteem, dear Sir
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Dr. Burney, Academy, Gosport
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Sq. London
Dear Sir Dec. 2. 1811
I did not observe in your proposals, that you required any stated notice on a scholar quitting the academy; but I wish to give you as early information as I can as possible, that the project of sending Henry Wiles to sea at Christmas is to take place: whether at the beginning of, or during the vacation, I am not precisely able to state until I hear from captain Walker of the Bedford; to whom I shall write on receiving your answer
The bill for his education etc. I beg you to transmit to me; but I could wish it to include the whole expense up to the day of his departure. May I beg of you to communicate this to my young friend: I hope it may prove a stimulus to his acquiring every thing that time will allow
I remain, dear Sir, with esteem
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Smith - Sollicitor - Horbling near Falkingham - Lincolnshire
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square London
Sir Dec. 7. 1811
It is many years since I had the pleasure of seeing you, but I take the liberty of requesting your advice upon the following subject
My mother-in law Mrs. Flinders of Donington holds of the Manor of Wykes, of which you are the Lord, a ahouse and two acres of land. This was left to trustees for her use during her life, and afterwards for the use of my fathers children. The trustees have no authority to sell during my mother's life; but it having been judged advisable by all the parties concerned, that the said house and land should
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Mr. Smith Horbling
land should be sold, Mr. Large of Donington has agreed to be the purchaser.
Mr. Large has employed Mr. R. Gleed as his solicitor; who finds that my mo our title lies solely in the admission of my late father, and after his death of my mother, to the estate, by your father the respective lords. This, he says, is not sufficient; that an abstract is required; by which I suppose he means, an abstract from the books of the Lord of the Manor of Wykes.
May I request of you, Sir, to say whether such an abstract, or any other document than the Admission, is necessary to make good the title; and if it is necessary, that you will cause it to be prepared and duly executed
I have further to state, that the parties concerned being widely distant, it will be very inconvenient for them to appear in person to make the surrender. The trustees live at Enderby near Spilsby, and at Tydd St. Marys near Wisbeach. The other parties are, three at Donington, one at St. Ives in Huntingdonshire, and myself and brother in London. I would therefore beg of you to point out the means, by which the surrender can be executed without our appearance; and as expenses are a great object to the limited income of my mother in-law, I would beg the favour of you to give me some idea of to what they are likely to be, in adopted the plan you may point out.
The surrender is to be executed next month, and Mr. Gleed waits my answer before preparing the deeds. I would therefore beg the favour of as early an answer as is convenient
I have the honour to be, Sir,
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Should you see my old friend and master Mr. Shinglor, I would beg to be kindly remembered to him.
_
Lieut John Franklin H.M. Ship Bedford
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square London
My dear John Dec. 13. 1811
Conformably to what I mentioned when I had the pleasure of seeing you here, I will thank you to present my compliments to captain Walker and to request the favour of him to receive Mr. Henry Wiles upon the quarter deck of the Bedford. He is about 15 years of age, has received a good education, mostly in Scotland, but for the last six months at Dr. Burney's academy at Gosport. I can answer for his disposition being a good one and his abilities
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abilities being respectable. In short I trust both captain Walker and you will have reason to be satisfied with him, if he has the good fortune to be accepted.
Should captain Walker do me the favour to comply with my request, I will thank you to mention the best and cheapest manner of his b his being conveyed from Gosport to the Bedford. Should it be necessary for him to pass through London, as I expect, I will have him fitted here with uniforms and the most essential things; if otherwise, I will beg of you to take this trouble, and to draw upon me, at Standerts, for the amount.
I intend that, for his mess, and incidental expenses he should be allowed an annual sum, not exceeding £20; if you think he can do with less, I should be glad, for the times are very hard for coffee planters, as is his father
I propose to take young Wiles from Gosport at Christmas, and therefore beg to be favoured with your answer as early as possible
I remain, my dear John,
your affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Merchant - Port Louis - Isle of France
(By M. Doguet) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square London
My dear friend Dec. 16. 1811
It is now very long indeed since I have received any letter from you, or from any of my friends in the Isle of France; and considering the number of cartels which have arrived, several very lately, this has somewhat surprised me. One of these cartels has, unfortunately, been brought to England as a prize, and it was that, in which your good sister, Madam Brunet, and her family were embarked. She will tell you, not doubt, in the packet which I inclose, how much she has had to suffer; On board the Wellesley, from the unhandsome treatment of the captor; and fro on board the Orlando from the perverseness of the winds and the rigour of our climate. Poor woman I sincerely pitied her; and am not at all surprised that every thing she has suffered from every different causes, should be charged to the injustice and cruelty of the whole English nation. With the inclosed packet, I received from her a letter of grievous complaints, which I answered; and have since learned, that my answer was received on the day or the day before they sailed from France; so that she and her companions would go with strong hopes of their property being restored to them; and which, it gives me the sincerest pleasure to say, have been realized.
On hearing of the arrival of the Wellesley at Portsmouth, I was desirous of going down to see your good sister and her family, and would have gone down, could
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Mr. T. Pitot
down, could I have rendered them service by it; but otherwise I did not feel myself authorized to quit my pressing occupations, or, situated as I am, to incur the expenses of the journey for my own gratification
I have been enabled, and feel gratified in it, that to be useful in prosecuting their just claim to their property, in the court of Admiralty; but in one point, which both Mad. Brunet and captain Le Marant appear to have much at heart, I fear I can do nothing. This is, to obtain the liberation of the captain's brother, who is a prisoner on parole here, and wounded. I have spoken to the T some of the officers of the Transport Office upon the subject, but receive very little hopes. Indeed my influence in that way has been totally exhausted, by their having granted me the liberation of Merle and his four companions. I hope those gentlemen are arrived safe, and that you will have received my letters of March last, by them. Nay, the letters of July, by M. Henry Desbassayns, are I trust, received by this time; for I have heard of his arrival at the Cape, and project of sailing for the I. of France immediately.
With respect to the trial, my friend, in which it was sought to deprive the passengers of the General Wellesley of their property, and the owners of their ship, Mr. Roux will give you full information, and therefore I do not enter into it. You will therein see cause to be confirmed in the high opinion I have heard you express of the judgemen decisions of Sir Wm. Scott: Mr. Roux is quite enchanted with him
With respect to As for myself, I am going on, as before, with my arduous task. I am so pressed on all sides to get it the voyage published quickly, that every instant is devoted to it, except the time that is required by indispensable business. Here I must tell you, that a letter from Paris dated Sept. 30, tells me that General DeCaen still has my journal "saying that he knew I was occupied writing my voyage, and he expected to be very ill treated in it; and that he kept the book for his own justification". He expressed his surprise, that I should consider myself on parole and incapacitated from serving, although he required me to sign an obligation not to serve either directly or indirectly during the war. The Admiralty had made a third application for this journal and the restitution of my parole; but no answer to it, is yet arrived.
In my last letters, I requested, that any money which might come into your hands for me, migh should be transmitted by the first good occasion; and I now repeat the same. My income is inadequate to the expense I am put to in London, where I must stay till the voyage is published; and the Admiralty is not disposed to give me much assistance, under the idea, I believe, that the profits of the work will repay me. Perhaps they may at some distant period; but in the mean time my little property is fast diminishing. The interest of money here is five
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per cent, with a deduction of one-tenth for income tax; so that with the high price of the necessaries of life, it requires a large capital to live with common decency, without expending capital the principal: and this is not my case.
I have frequently reproached myself for not having made some returns for your many acts of kindness and liberality. I wished to have sent you various publications and books which would have interested and amused you, but this res angusta domi would not allow me to follow my inclination. The sole thing you will receive, is about six three months of an impartial weekly paper; which perhaps you will prefer to a the daily papers; since in these last there are so many things put in one day, which are contradicted on the next.
As I have not time to write to any other friends than yourself and Madame D'Arifat, I must beg of you to present my kind remembrances to your brother and all your good family; as also to such other of my friends and acquaintance as remain in the island. I am glad to find that Major Leetch is suited to intimate in your family. I thought him a worthy and well-informed man, and therefore recommended him to you. I beg my best compliments to him, as also to Major Millar, should you see him
My good little wife is tolerably well and besides [indecipherable] me a son or a daughter in a few [indecipherable], expresses the desire to be acquainted with the dear friend of her husband: in the mean time she joins her affectionate regards to mine.
I am, my dear Thomy, for life
your most sincerely and affectionate
Mattw. Flinders
Madame D'Arifat - Wilhems Plains - Isle of France
D 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Dec. 16. 1811
My dear Madam
I have not had the pleasure of receiving any letter from the Isle of France, since yours dated in January, now near twelve months ago. It does not appear that my friends have thought the cartels for France presented good opportunities, which though I should have thought judged to be so otherwise. One of these has been brought to England as a prize, and it was that, unfortunately, in which the sister of my good friend Pitot had embarked, with her family. After being detained more than two months, partly by foul winds, they sailed in another vessel for Morlaix, leaving Messieurs Barrault and Roux, as their agents for opposing the claims of the captors to their property. The cause has been lately decided in the Court of Admiralty, and the money and merchandise have been ordered to be restored to the French owners: a decision which gives me
infinite pleasure; first because it is just, and next because my friends are concerned in it.
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Madame D'Arifat
I hope you have long ago received my letters of March last, by M. Osserre; and also those of June & July, by Mr. Henry Desbassayns. Your welfare my dear friend, and that of your worthy family, are very interesting to me; and I begin to be impatient to know how the voyage from Bourbon was completed, what chan favourable changes amongst you have taken place, and what my young friends Aristide and Marc are doing, or propose to do. Of Charles' family, I wish also to know the particulars. From himself I have not heard since I quitted you; but I know him to well to feel any doubt of the continuation of his favourable sentiments, on that account; and I fully excuse him, from the pressure of business which his new office must necessarily have brought upon him: Happily, his brother would arrive to take some weight off his shoulders
I am as fully, if not more than ever, occupied with my work. I feel the necessity of getting it completed as early as possible; and am pressed, on every side, to the same effect. When nothing intervenes to prevent it, I am writing from ten in the morning, until the same hour at night. The painters and engravers are going on in their respective departments; so that in eighteen months we have some hopes of getting the work through the press; But so much haste is not favourable to the execution of the work, more especially to the writing part of it
Being this pressed for time, I find it necessary to contract my correspondence for a time; and therefore I beg to be excused from writing to several persons whom my heart wishes well. My good friends Labauve and André will I hope, excuse me on this account, as also Mr. Sauvejet and Mr. Curtat. To all of them I beg to be kindly remembered.
Mrs. Flinders enjoys continues to enjoy tolerable health, and we have every hope will do well. She joins me in best wishes, to you and our friends Delphine and Sophie. I hope my dear Madame it will not be long before we hear from you
I remain with respect and esteem attachment
Your very devoted friend and affect.. friend and affectionate obliged
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
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Mrs. Flinders Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square London
My dear Mother Dec. 19. 1811
Immediately on the reception of your letter of the 3rd. I wrote to Mr. Smith of Horbling requesting to know, whether an abstract from the books of the Lord of the Manor was necessary; and if it was, to have it prepared and duly executed, agreeably to Mr. Gleed's suggestion. I also requested him to say, what were the best means to be adopted in getting the surrender executed by the parties concerned, since it would be impossible to assemble them at Horbling. I have been waiting for Mr. Smiths answer till this time; but fearful of retarding the business, I do not wait any longer, not knowing what may have prevented him from giving me an answer
My opinion is, that if an abstract is necessary to make good the title, that Mr. Gleed should be requested to apply to Mr. Smith of Horbling for it; and if it is not already made out, that Mr. Gleed should take the necessary measures to obtain it; and proceed in completing the business against the 29th. of next month, when Henrietta will be of age to sign.
With respect to our making the surrender, I see no other way of its being done, than that which Mr. Gleed suggests. Which is, for the lord of the manor to send an agent to all the parties; and the expense of this, as also of the abstract, must I fear be paid out of the purchase money.
The oysters, which I mentioned, will be sent in a few days, with a letter to Mr. W. Flinders; but it will not be necessary to put you to any expense of postage upon that head. My good little wife goes on very well, and we hope, will get through her difficulties safely. She has lately received a letter from Hannah. She joins me in kind love to you and my sisters, and remembrances to all our friends
I remain my dear mother,
your sincere friend and son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. After you have reported my opinion to Mr. Gleed, and he says what steps he means to adopt for completing the business, pray write and let me know. Samuel is in tolerable health, and was here this morning
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Rear Admiral Bligh, 3 Durham Place, Lambeth
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
Dec. 20.1811
Sir
I have the honour to receive your note, expressing the desire of His Royal Highness the Duke of Clarence to see the general chart of my surveys in and about New South Wales. I shall be happy in doing anything that can be agreeable to His Highness; and if you can will have the goodness to inform me of the time and place, I will not fail of attending you
I have the honour to be, Sir
your most obedient
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Lieut. Flinders 11 Cleveland Street - London
Mary Street Dec. 27. 1811
Sir
The shock you have given me by your letter of Saturday this evening is more than I can express. To fully understand the ext what I feel on your refusal to deliver my books, it may be proper to explain what my sentiments are of that refusal are
The books in question were never considered to be yours during the voyage, or did you ever lay any kind of claim to them. They were in my possession, public purposes, both before and after. I confided and as much mine after, as before you had written in them. They were delivered by me to you, I conferred them to you to be in the confidence that they would for the purpose of being used for the benefit of my voyage; and now in retaining them for a purpose inimical to that voyage, you not only keep what is not yours, but you commit a breach of confidence towards me. A clerk who should keep possession of office books, because he had written in them, would be guilty of the same. If you allege that the clerk is paid for the purpose, I answer so were you: his wages even were not paid, he would have no right to the books, nor have you to these but [indecipherable] a recompense was offered, and you accepted it for that and similarly services was offered and you accepted it. I obtained your first commission because your were my brother, and because I expected services of the very nature contained in these books. I have since done all in my power to procure you further advancement on the same account, little expecting that you would use all your means to render useless, the very service upon which my applications were grounded.
I keeping the books Your are keeping that to which manifestly, in my opinion, you have no right; and this from revenge to a Board and
[Page 141]
and have therein, moreover from guilt committed a breach of confidence towards me. It is not the Board of Longitude that will suffer by it, by your unjust proceeding but my voyage, that is to say, myself. That you should deliberately seek to do me a great injury, I did not expect; but under the baneful influence of the passions that possess you, every consideration, gratitude and every other [indecipherable] it seems, it seems is laid aside for their gratification. I will not undertake the invidious task of recapitulating the pains and uneasiness you have cost me, from the age of eleven years up to this time; that may be left to the worm within your own conscience. But I will say, that if you had a friend in the world, it was the person now writing to you. Him you cast off, After having directly [indecipherable] by committed an act marked with injustice, breach of confidence, and ingratitude
Whether the Board will or will not agree to either of your conditions can make no alteration in my sentiments upon what you have done. In either case, you have shown yourself capable of an action which I abhor.
Fare you well
The books in question were not originally yours; they did not become so yours by your writing in them, for you did it voluntarily, without condition; they did not become so when delivered to you in April, for they were only confided to you, to be used for the benefit of the voyage. They were, and are mine for every purpose public purpose You now retain them for purposes inimical to to the detriment of that voyage; and therein commit, in my opinion, an act of injustice and a breach of confidence. It is no plea for a clerk man to keep office books, that he has written in them; nor yet that his wages are not paid: He may sue for the wages of agreement, but cannot keep the books. But you had no condition made, and have received a recompense.
The Board of Longitude will not suffer by this violent proceeding; but it is the voyage, that is to say, myself, whom you have pretended a desire to serve. But it seems, that however much I may suffer, it does not prevent you from listening to following the baneful influence of the passions that possess you; justice, confidence, gratitude are all trampled under foot. After having disobliged all other of your relations by your petulant overbearing pride, intolerance, and want of feeling; you now scruple not to injure the protector of your youth, and best remaining friend
You say you suspect Sir J. B. wants to make use of the books, and cast you aside. This is a most uncharitable sentiment; but will you for a suspicion, commit an act which every honest man must abhor? Alas, my brother scruples not to do it has done it
Fare you well
Whether the Board will or will not agree to either of your propositions, can make no alteration in my sentiments of the want of principle in the act you have are committing, Should you persevere in it, your ruin may, I fear, be the consequence. I wish still to leave it open to you, to send the books; under the apprehension that for your total ruin may be the consequence of persevering Fare you well in a refusal. Should you persevere in it, your ruin may, I fear, be the consequence. I leave it open to you, to send the books; but without them, all communication must cease before Tomorrow morning, when
On Monday morning I go, with Mr. Mattw. Flinders Crossley, to Sir Jos. Banks. Without the books are restored, there can be no further communication between us.
Fare you well Mattw. Flinders
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Lieut. Flinders - 11 Cleveland Street -
Mary St. Dec. 31. 1811
Dear Samuel
I shall not attempt to confute the reasoning in your letter, because it would take it time I cannot spare, and because, in the present state of your mind, all reasoning is useless; I shall, therefore, only say, that the possession of all the observation books, your own included, is a matter independent of the recalculation, of of any agreement real, or supposed, that may have been made relative to the recalculation. By combining these two into one, your error has perhaps arisen; for I am willing to attribute your manner of acting of to an error in judgment, and not to a positive intention to commit injustice.
So As far as I am individually concerned, the offer you made yesterday morning I told you yesterday that, in consequence of the offer you made, I acquitted you of an intention to injure me. that part of your letter therefore needs The part I have taken in accepting your offer of the books, and of your assistance upon your own terms, has cost something to my pride, thinking as I do, upon the detention of the books; but I found so many such imperious circumstances demanding it, that I fully consented. You will perhaps one day understand, that in so doing I have acted as I described myself to be, your best remaining friend.
What I would wish request of you to do is, to make out such a list of the observations, and so man as may be necessary for Mr. Crossly to complete the recalculation. He perhaps may not require the whole to be made out; and if not, so much the better. The task you have undertaken will be the sooner acquill
accomplished; and you will be able to follow your inclination in going down into the country
In fine, Samuel, I shake hands with you, and remain your affectionate brother
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I think you have Wales' observations with you. I have occasion to consult them, and will thank you to send them by the bearer. You can have them again afterwards, if necessary.
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Dr. Burney, Academy, Gosport - Hants
Dec. 31. 1811 7 Mary St. Fitzroy Sq.
Dear Sir
Having received information that the Bedford is likely to remain in Harbour, time enough to get Mr. Wiles fitting out, and on board; I request the favour of you to send him up to me by the coach, without loss of time. I will also thank you to pay his passage up, and to send me by him the account; mentioning at the same time to whom I can pay the amount in London.
I have to thank you for the care and trouble you have taken on my young friends account; their conduct has, I hope, been correct since their foolish attempt at emancip premature emancipation
I have the honour to remain, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Brown Esq. Gatton-side House, Melrose, near Berwick
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Sq. London
Dear Sir Jan. 2. 1812
So soon as I was able to ascertain that the Bedford would remain ten days in port, I wrote to Dr. Burney requesting him to send up Henry Wiles without loss of time. He is arrived this morning, bringing me a letter from the doctor; and I cannot refrain from copying what he says of our young friend "I have been perfectly well pleased with both the youngsters since their return to the academy, and have found Wiles a lad of uncommon application: I shall always be glad to see him, and to render him any service."
In the letter was inclosed the bill for board, education, and expenses, up to the time that of Henry's quitted the school arrival in town; but as I find the account up to Christmas has been already transmitted; I shall mention only the sum total, and apply the subsequent articles
| Account transmitted | £34.9.6 |
| Money paid on receiving, and sending back H.W. to the Academy | 2. - . - |
| Staying two weeks, during the vacation | 2. 2. - |
| Coach fare and cash to London (paid by Dr. Burney) | 2. 8. 6 |
| £41- |
I am aware, dear Sir, that the two last articles may be thought to exceed your promise
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Mr. Brown - Melrose
your promise. You will, therefore, act with respect to them as you see proper. There are also some articles in Dr. Burney's bill, which I did not expect; wh but which have arisen from the custom of the school for the young gentlemen, destined for the navy, to appear in uniform, when dressed. Should you object to these, they must necessarily be paid by me. My wish is, that you should know the whole expense on his coming into my charge; and I am persuaded you will do in it, what is right.
AThe outfit of Henry is already commenced; and I hope he will be on board the Bedford in Hosely Bay, at the end of the next week. The expense of his clothing, and other necessary articles will be £50; but as I have purchased most of these articles from persons to whom I am known; I hope to hear from our friend before called it will be necessary to pay the bills. £10 more, it will be necessary for Henry to take on board, to pay his mess, and provide for incidental expenses during six months; after which my friend on board Lt. Franklin will draw on my agent for the same sum for him, should it be necessary
The arrangements that I have made, are such as would have been done were it myself and my son that were concerned; and as such will, I hope, meet the approbation of Mr. Wiles. I am only sorry that my insufficient income makes it necessary for me to give him the earliest information of the expenses incurred
Hoping that you are recovered from your indisposition, I remain, dear Sir, with much esteem
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea, Jamaica
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
London Jan. 2. 1812
My dear friend
Since In my letter of Nov. 6 last I informedy you of what had occurred to your son, and the steps proposed to be taken with him. I received your letter dated Sept. 20. in which you leave Henry to Mr. Brown's and my disposal. The In answer to my letter (mentioned Nov. 6) to Mr. Brown from Mr. Brown was requesting to know whether, in case of not hearing from you before Christmas, Mr. Brown he was authorised to mak advance the expenses of Henry's outfit, it was replied, that he could not pledge himself, in the present state of affairs, without your especial directions and authority. I afterwards communicated to him such passages in your last, letter of Sept. 20 as related to the
[Page 145]
to the subject; and the answer received on Dec. 13 was, "that it was not in his power to make any further advances for our friend, which he sincerely regretted".
Mr. Brown agreed to pay Henry's expenses at Gosport up to Christmas; when he, as it were, delivered him up to me. Thus situated, my friend, I did not hesitate a moment to take every thing upon myself. Captain Walker's promise was obtained to receive Henry upon the quarter deck of the Bedford, and Mr. Franklin's to take care of him; and So soon as I knew the Bedford ship was to remain ten days in port (Hosely Bay, near Harwich) I wrote to Dr. Burney to send him up to me, and This morning he arrived in good health, and spirits, and we immediately proceeded to fitting him out.
The whole of Henry's account from his arrival at Gosport in July, to returning to me today, is £41. There are some articles in it which I am not certain Mr. Brown will think to comeng within the limit of his promise; but as I have a very good opinion of Mr. B. as an upright, friendly man, I am satisfied he will do all he can, and thinks to be right. Should he object to any thing, I will of course pay it, since I think the difference cannot be great.
On calculation, I find the amount of Henry's outfit will come to £50; besides £10 to take with him for his mess; and other expenses during six months. I shall give Lieut.. Franklin authority to draw upon my agent for £20 a year for him afterwards; but making it as much less, as circumstances will admit. This my friend is the plan I should have adopted, had Henry been my son; and this is the plan I shall follow until your express directions are received
After the account I gave you of my finances, you will perhaps be surprised how it is in my power (for my will you will I think is not doubt,) to do this. The fact is, that through the kind interference of Sir J. B. the admiralty granted me, a little time ago, an imprest of £200; that is to say lent it to me, on account of the voyage. This has cleared me off for the last year, and relieved my mind from much uneasiness. I have besides ordered the greater part of Henry's things from persons to whom I am known; and therefore shall be able to defer making payment for some months; perhaps until I know the exact dispositions you may wish to be made. I will only say further upon this subject, that every thing shall be done for Henry, within my power; and as if he were my own. He is a fine lad, possess good abilities, has "uncommon application" as Dr. Burney expresses it; and has every prospect of doing well
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Mr. Wiles
I am busily occupied getting on with my voyage as fast as possible; I enjoy good health to which I am pressed by all, and I may say, everything, around me; but it is a long and laborious work. My health thank God, is good; and I am happy to say that of Mrs. F. is better than it has been for many years: she expects to increase our family in March. It gives me pleasure also to say, that I go on well with Sir Jos. Banks; who has lately proved himself a kinder friend than I dared expect from him.
Accept my dear friend, the best wishes of Mrs. F. and myself for the health and happiness of yourself and family, for during the present new year, and ever afterwards; and believe me, very affectionately
yours most sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
Mrs. Flinders, Donington - Lincolnshire
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
My dear mother London Jan. 7. 1812
I am happy to hear, by your letter of the 3rd., that the business of Mr. Large's house is going on well; and that there is no occasion for Mr. Franklin or Mr. Hursthouse to sign. The day after my last letter was sent, I received an answer from Mr. Smith of Horbling; and I think he seems very civil and accommodating [With respect to the purchase money, there is £552 besides interest. The interest belongs to you, as also 15s. for the Stamford advertisement. You must also deduct from the principal, all the expenses you may have to pay for the abstract, and those attending the surrender. So soon therefore, as the surrender is signed by all the parties, get Mr. Smiths' bill, and if there should be any other, (which I expect there will not,) get it also. Then, after the 15s., and this bill, or bills, is deducted get The amount of this bill or bills, the
15s., and the interest, you will then get, in cash from for yourself, from Barnard's. For the rest of the money desire them to write to their banker in London (whose name you must get and send me), to pay the amount to me on application. I will write my name on a corner of this letter, that you may cut it off and give it to Barnards to be inclosed to their bankers
When I get the money, I shall deduct £1.5 for advertisement and postage of Mr. Gleed's letters; and the rest, which I hope will amount to £540 or more, I will put into the 5 per cents, in the name of Franklin, Hursthouse, and Walker; and Mr. Walker will receive the dividends, without expense, in June and January, and remit them to you, as he has been accustomed to do. This is the plan, which
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after talking the matter over with Mr. Walker and Mr. Hursthouse, appears to me the best; and will give you as much interest as can any where be gotten, without risk.
What you say about getting back the property tax paid upon poor John's annuity shall be attended to, so soon as I can see Mr. Walker, to talk to him upon the subject. I have great hopes of succeeding; but as you say, shall probably be obliged to write for the probate of my father's will. Of that, however, I will let you know in time
2 [Samuel is very well, and is not at all displeased at your not receiving him into your house. He proposed to write to you by this opportunity; but as I send the parcel away sooner than was expected, he will perhaps not be ready. Mr. Scarborough, music master of Spalding, is good enough to take it.
1 [Mrs. Flinders has bought you a nice hareskin, big enough to be cut into two. If it is of service to you, we shall be very glad; and beg your acceptance of it. We are [indecipherable] sorry that you sh the return of your disorder has made such a thing necessary
I am glad to hear my good uncle looks so well. Pray present our kind love and duty to him; and our affectionate remembrances to my two sisters, and our good friends. Mrs. F. is so busy, she cannot write to Hannah at this time; but begs you to send the inclosed note to Boston
I remain, my dear Madam, your affectionate friend
and son in law
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Hursthouse was in town about ten days ago, and dined with us in Mary Street. He looked pretty well, but has not quite got clear of his cough
Mr. Wm. Walker, near the 8th. mile stone, Richmond, Surrey
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
My dear Sir London Jan. 8. 1812
My mother has written to me about applying to the Commissioners of taxes, to get back the income tax upon the £1000 stock, in the three consols, the interest of which is left as an annuity for the support of an unfortunate brother in York asylum. I think you receive the dividend upon this stock, and should be glad to consult with you upon the steps I am to take to get back all the income tax, which has been paid, as well as to get it abated in future. An annuity of £30 a year ought certainly to pay no tax; but it will be necessary to prove that he has no more; and also to obtain proof at the bank of what has been already paid
[Page 148]
Mr. Walker, Richmond
paid.
As I suppose you will be in town shortly, I should be glad to meet you at Mr. Bonners in Fleet Street, any day you and hour you will appoint. Besides the above matter, I have to talk to you upon the putting of £550 or thereabouts, into the fives for my mother, in the joint names of Franklin, Hursthouse, and Walker, as was before mentioned
Mrs. Flinders desires to join in kind compliments: we hope Mrs. Walker's health does not suffer by the rigour of the present season. Requesting you to excuse this fresh trouble, I remain, with esteem, dear Sir
yours faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain Walker of H.M.S. Bedford - in the Downs
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
London Jan. 13. 1812
Dear Sir
The bearer Mr. Henry Wiles is the young gentleman, who, you had the goodness to say, should be received upon the quarter deck of the Bedford. He left Gosport Academy for the purpose of joining the Bedford on Jan. 1. and would have been down before had the Bedford remained in Hosely Bay. I should hope there will be no objection to giving him his entry from that time. That he has not joined sooner, has been owing to the Bedford's change of place
I very much hope, that the conduct of this young man will meet your approbation. His education has been good, and I have a high opinion of his disposition and principles. His father, a very old friend of mine, was botanist in the expedition, which transported the bread-fruit from Otaheite to the West Indies in 1792. He remained at Jamaica, in charge of the and is now a planter in Jamaica. My young friend John Franklin will take the youngster under his particular care
Requesting you to accept my thanks for your readiness to receive my young protégé, I am with consideration and esteem, dear Sir
Your obliged and faithful servant
Mattw. Flinders
Lt. John Franklin of etc.
Jan 14. 1812
My dear John
You will herewith receive my young friend Wiles, whom I recommend to your particular care and guidance. I have furnished him with a moderate stock of clothes, and given him £10 in his pocket to pay to pay his mess
[Page 149]
his mess and meet what his expenses for six months. At midsummer, draw upon Standert for £10 more for him to be placed to my account. And so on every six months if you see that he requires it; but making it, at all times, as much less, as the pay or other money he may receive, will allow
I will thank you to let me know from time to time, how he goes on. Pray do not let him be idle. Employ him in learning to knot and splice under a quarter-master, in working any observations you may make; in writing his journal and in such other studies as may be useful to him. Recommend him to be very strict en Make it a point of honour to him, to be quick in relieving the deck, and strict in keeping his watch; and when there are any courts-martial, endeavour either to take him with you, or that he may go to attend, when it can be done. In fine my dear John, endeavour to make a good officer and a good man of him; and be assured that I shall always entertain a grateful sense of your attention to him
I remain, your very affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I have not bought him a quadrant; but so soon as he knows how to take care of himself and his things, that is in six months time, it will be necessary to get him one
Mr. J. H. Large - Surgeon, Donington near Boston - Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Jan. 30. 1812
Sir
I have received a letter from Mr. Gleed, inclosing an opinion of counsel; from which it appears, that a good title for your house etc. cannot be made to you, during the life of my mother-in-law; because should myself or any of my brothers or sisters, die before my mother, and leave children, those children might refuse their proportion of the purchase money, and claim a share of the estate
I think it It is very unfortunate both for you and us, that Mr. Gleed had not commenced by examining the title, and taking counsels' opinion if necessary, and have instead of leaving left it to the last thing. But since it is so, I make you this proposition; to which, if you are still desirous of making the purchase, I foresee but one objection
I propose then, that the purchase money shall remain be placed in the hands of trustees to be named by us conjointly; who shall put it into the public funds, as a place of the greatest security. There to remain so long as my mother lives; for the purpose of answering any claims or objections that the children of the legatees mus may make. The dividends to be received by my mother
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Mrs. Carr, Druggist, Louth, Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Feb. 10. 1812
My dear Aunt
I duly received your letter of the 3rd. instant, and also the hamper; but as Mrs. Flinders proposes adding a few lines, I shall leave the expression of our thanks to her. I am indeed sorry to hear of the account state in which your son William has arrived. That Instead of having saved a sufficiency, if not to be of some assistance to his family, yet so as or at least to fit himself out for any plan that which might offer, that he should have returned destitute and with a debt to be paid, is an unfortunate and distressing circumstance. The money you propose to let him have, will I think be secured by a note of hand for the amount, to payable to his sisters out of the legacy he will receive from his uncle at your death. [Mr. Cousins, and not me, is the person to whom any order for the payment should be addressed; but there is one thing you must always keep in mind; that you cannot dispose of any part of the £400 in favour of this or that person; it must go to your surviving children in equal proportions, according to the will of Mr. Ward. So that were Wm. to object at your death to the payment of any part of his share to his sisters, Mr. Cousins would be obliged to pay the whole £100 to him, notwithstanding
[Page 151]
any order which might have been given before. His sisters, however, could recover the money upon the note of hand
Mr. Cousins will also be obliged to pay £100 each to your three daughters, without any regard to a will you might make. Mary's part must, I suppose After it is received, Betsey and Susan can do with their proportions it what they please; either in favour of poor Mary or otherwise. Mary's £100 must, I suppose, be paid into the hands of guardians for her use; and I would strongly recommend, that so soon as the guardians receive it, that it should be immediately sunk, to purchase a life annuity for her Mary. For if it remains at her death, Maras could get it, as being her legitimate heir
What you yourself leave to Mary, might be disposed of in two ways. £100 laid out in annuity for her life, would I suppose make up with the other, £15 a year for her; but if you do not wish to sink the money; then take care to specify, that the sum left to her is, after her death, to go to such particular person or persons. This is necessary on account of Maras
The reason that I cannot act in regard to Mr. Ward's will, is, that I have not taken out any probate. Nor is it necessary to go to the expense, as every thing goes on well in the hands of Mr. Cousins, who has a probate. However, my dear aunt, you may rest satisfied that I will do everything in my power to see that justice is done.
I would have you consult the gentlemen, whom you have appointed trustees for your own will, whether their receipts to Mr. Cousins for the £100 will be sufficient, and whether they can purchase an annuity for her, without the concurrence of Maras; for I am not myself clear about this point
With respect to the fruit you wish to have for presents, there is no bread fruit to be got in England; and if there were, it would be no better than sending a potatoe. Pomegranets and other foreign fruits are so dear, that a sufficiency to make a tolerable present could not be bought £under £5. So that I would not have you think of it
My health, thank God, has been and continues to be very good; and I am happy to say that of Mrs. Flinders is better than for many years before. She expects to be confined next month. Samuel also, is tolerably well. He lives in London near us, and dines with us occasionally. He thinks of passing some weeks in Lincolnshire next summer. I remain, my dear Aunt, with best wishes for your health, and kind remembrances to Susan and my other cousins,
your affectionate nephew and friend
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 152]
Mrs. Carr
P.S. Feb. 11 I have this morning consulted a gentleman of the law, with respect to Maras; and I find that if he claims the £100 of his wife, at your death, the law will give it to him. Nor will it be safe for the trustees to lay it out in an annuity or for any person to grant the annuity. He agrees in what I have before said, that you cannot legally dispose of any part of the £400 contrary to Mr. Wards' will; nevertheless, he recommends that you should leave Mary's £100 to trustees for her personal support and maintenance during her life, and afterward to such persons as you think proper. This sum should be mentioned in your will altogether distinct from anything else you leave to Mary the trustees for Mary's support; that should Maras make a claim, he may at least get no more than the £100. If he does not know of the tenor of Mr. Wards' will, he may not claim, and all may go well. You should therefore be very secret about it, not even consulting any attorney at Louth upon the subject; but the trustees should be informed of the circumstance
Mrs Flinders Donington, near Boston - Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Feb. 11. 1812
My dear mother
I received your letter yesterday, and think you should give up the note about Mr. Large's money at once, for the purchase must now be considered as done with. It is hard that you cannot have the interest of it instead of the rent; but I see that you cannot demand it more than the £19 a year
Both Samuel and myself agree to your proposal of taking money from what is in the hands of Mr. Leatherland, to be applied to the repairs of Mr. Large's house; and I have little doubt that Mr. and Mrs. Pearson will also; they will be written to upon the subject, as will Mr. Hursthouse, and you must write to have Mr. Franklin's approbation either today or tomorrow; and in the mean time let notice be given to Mr. Leatherland
Mr. Dodd being as much interested as any of us, in this business, I request that he will be so good as to go, with Mr. Large, over the house and premises; and see what repairs Mr. L. thinks necessary. They should also have a builder with them to make an estimate of what such repairs may amount to and the time it will take. The sum must not exceed £100, and if it is less so much the better; we must also know, how long the house and premises will then stand without requiring any other re-repairs than what Mr. Large will undertake to do himself; for if they will not stand for five years at least, it will be throwing away money.
Say then to Mr. Large, that we consent to repair the house and premises; and not to require more rent from him than £27.10 a year, which is no more than the interest of the purchase money agreed upon, independently
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of the expense of the repairs. But that in consideration of this, we expect he will undertake to keep the house and premises in the same state of repair as the builder leaves them. We do not mean, that he is to lay out great sums of money The new rent to commence at Lady day next
By the time you can send me, from Mr. Dodd, the estimate of the expense, and the time which the builder judges the premises will then stand without be habitable, without other repairs than Mr. Large will undertake to do, I shall have received Mr. and Mrs. Pearson's answer. Whilst the repairs are going on, I would beg of Mr. Dodd to inspect them from time to time, to see that the builder fulfils the conditions that may be agreed upon. It will also be Mr. Large's interest to see that they are properly executed
Mrs. Flinders and Samuel are both well, and join in love and duty to you, and affectionate remembrances to our in best wishes for the restoration of your health. Present our kind remembrances to Mr. and Mrs. Dodd, Henrietta and our good friends, and believe me, my dear mother,
your affectionate friend and son-in law
Mattw. Flinders
As Mr. Gleed can have nothing more to do with the probate, you had better get it back
Robt. Peele Esq. Under Secretary of State for the Colonaies
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Feb. 28 1812
Sir
I beg leave to state to you the following circumstances attending the relating to the small schooner Cumberland, furnished to me by the late governor King, from the colony in New South Wales, for the purpose of a passage to England; On my putting in at the Isle of France in distress, she was taken from me, with her stores, and some of my own property but which was unjustly taken from me at the I. of France, with some portion of my own property. After a lapse of more than three years, general DeCaen received an order from his government to set me at liberty and restore my vessel; but when, after three years longer delay, he thought proper to comply with the first part of the order, no return or account of the Cumberland could be obtained. Thus far I had the honour of stating to the Earl of Liverpool on my arrival in England; by letter dated Oct. 25. 1810
As it had the above mentioned order shewed the intention of the French government to restore that the schooner should have been returned, the Lords Commissioner's of the Admiralty directed the Transport Board to make an application upon that subject, and upon some others more particularly relating to myself. This was twice repeated; but from the equivocal answers received from Mons. Rivière, and particularly the last, there can be no hope of recovering the value, on a can be little doubt of the vessel being lost to the government; nor, I believe, do the commissioners of the Transport Office entertain any hope of recovering her value on the public account, or the intention of renewing the application
But from information I have received from Paris it appears probable that were
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Mr. Peele
were I authorised to reclaim the value of the vessel on my own account, that it might be obtained; the injustice of my long imprisonment at the Isle of France and the detention of the vessel, being well known in the French marine minister's office, and privately acknowledged
The vessel and stores were estimated at 2500 Spanish dollars,
May I, Sir, beg of you to inform me whether, under these circumstances, the Earl of Liverpool would allow me such authority to be given me, such authority would be given me from the colonial department, as that I could claim the Cumberland on my own account name. The value was estimated in the Isle of France, at 2500 Spanish dollars; and of that sum, of of whatever might may be recovered, I should I an account will be rendered, and the money held to be disposed of, as His Lordship the Earl of Liverpool shall think proper to direct.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Late commr. of H. M. ship
the Investigator
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea Jamaica
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square
London March 5. 1812
My dear friend
I received a few days ago, your letter of Jan. 18; at which time you were then unacquainted with what had passed betwixt Mr. Brown and myself upon the subject of Henry's outfit for sea. My letter of Jan. 2. would give you full information upon the subject up to that time; to which I have only to add, that Mr. Brown very handsomely remitted me a bill of £50; which paid the Gosport account of £41, and left £9 to be applied to his outfit. From what Mr. Brown wrote me, I much fear he will not find it convenient to make any further advances on Henry's account; however it is not many days since he will have received your last letter, and possibly I may yet have a letter from him upon the subject. The account, at present, stands thus
| Money advanced, and travelling expenses | £5. 8. 7 |
| Taylor's bill for Henrys outfit, still due | 8. 11. - |
| Mr. Bonners bill, including every other article of the outfit, still due, estimated at] | 33.15. - |
| £47.14. 7 |
This sum is somewhat under the estimate I had made. Indeed I confined his outfit to what was absolutely necessary, leaving out a quadrant and some few other
[Page 155]
few other articles, until such time as he should have gained experience in taking care of himself and of his things; and he may purchase them gradually out of the £20 a year which Mr. Franklin is to draw for him.
At or before the reception of this letter you will have received one from Henry by the conveyance of captain Aken of the ship Heywood, my former master in the Investigator. On learning that captain A. proposed to stop in the Downs, I requested him to go on board the Bedford, and see Henry, that he might give to you an account of him; and I requested lieut. Franklin of the Bedford to desire Henry to write you a long letter by that opportunity. By a letter from Mr. Franklin, the Heywood had arrived on the 24. last; he says of Henry, "he is very well, and appears to hold his way pretty well among his companions, and gets reconciled to a ship. I do not think he has any great partiality for a sailor's life; however, custom and warmer weather may bring him to like it. The quarter master, under whose attention he is placed, tells me he appears very anxious to learn the ropes, and know his duty. I have him engaged in my cabin, bringing up journal, watch, and station bills. When they are completed, I shall begin with navigation. He seems very well informed in all parts of his school education, and has a good memory". Thus, my friend, I think your son is fairly embarked in life; and I have confidence that he will be a comfort and honour to you, and a credit to me. When I get a ship, you may be assured that I shall take with me; and in the mean time I shall do the best I can for him out of the great esteem and friendship I bear to his worthy father.
I have but little to say of myself, every thing going on, in the same way as before. By this time twelvemonth, I hope my laborious task will be completed; but what I shall do afterwards is totally uncertain. I have no intention of applying for a ship in the regular service; so that if no voyage of discovery is projected, nor any situation on shore offered to me, I think of retiring into Lincolnshire, and buying a small house and garden at, or near Stamford, as I before told you. The most that I can muster is £250 a year, half pay included; and that is so far from allowing me to live in London, that it will require the strictest economy to live in the country upon it. What the voyage may produce, or what portion of the advantages may be awarded to me, I know not. is yet unknown. I know only that I have a most arduous task, and that I must get through as soon, and as well as I can.
Mrs. F. thank God continues to go on favourably, and in a few weeks will, I hope, be safely delivered from her anxieties and her burthen. She makes adds her compliments, to the best wishes of
Your very sincere and affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Our old friend Bligh introduced me with my charts the other day to the Duke of Clarence. [indecipherable] is a proud man, adm. B. is the most obliging I have met with He is remarkably obliging and attentive to me; yet I have been very far from courting his friendship; but I believe he is proud that to have had me for his disciple in surveying and nautical astronomy
[Page 156]
Madame DArifat - I. of France
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London March 7. 1812
(McCarthy)
My dear Madam
I have lately had the satisfaction of receiving two letters from you, the one dated August 19. and the last on Nov. 2. 1811. It has given me great pleasure to be in receive information of my friends in the Isle of France; and I congratulate you my dear friend upon the marriage of Labauve; and do fervently hope and desire that he may be truly happy with his accomplished wife, and that fortune may graciously smile upon them. I wish much to be able to make the same congratulations to my good friends Delphine and Sophie; and am indeed somewhat surprised, from what I heard before leaving the Isle of France, that the opportunity has not been given me before this. Pray do present them with my best wishes and recommendations to that effect; and assure them of the continuance of my warm and sincere friendship
You seem to have fallen into an error, my dear friend, upon the number of letters I have written. No. 7 was not the number of the letter written in March but of the house in which I then lived, as it is now, though in a different street. The following are the dates of the letters addressed to you from England; by which you will be able to ascertain whether any are lost
No. 1 - Feb. 25. 1811 inclosed in a box with various articles, and letters for Messieurs Labauve, Curtat, Pitot; also letters from Mrs. F. The box was committed to the care of Mr. Rashleigh of the Company's ship Marquis of Ely.
No. 2 March 30. (received)
No. 3 June 17. 1811 sent by Mons. Osserre, with letters to Messieurs Curtat and Pitot
No. 4 Aug. 27. 1811 by Lt. Pritchard of the Owen Glendower frigate, with a letter to Mr. Pitot
No. 5 Dec. 16. 1811, by Mons. Doguet, with one to Mr. Pitot, and the present letter is No. 6, and will go by Mr. McCarthy, deputy master. By this list, you will be able to know whether any letters have been lost. I am particularly sorry that Mr. H. Desbassayns was not able to procure the box from Mr. Rashleigh; as well on account of the little assortment of articles, destined to be an assurance of my friendship and gratitude to you, my dear Madam, and the different members of your good family, as on account of the letters it contained. I hope, however, that it may still find its way to Mr. Pitot, to whom it is addressed; and from whom you will receive the articles and letters; though it may not be until the return of the ship to from China
[Page 157]
My occupation of writing still proceeds as before; but it will be yet twelve months before it will be completed, and probably six months more that I shall have to superintend the printing and engravings. What I may do after that period is altogether uncertain. If government should desire to have my voyage completed; I may then have the pleasure of seeing my friends in the Isle of France; but if the pressure of the times should not allow of a voyage being made, I have then little prospect of that pleasure; for I do not see any probability, that a suitable appointment in the island, will be given to me; and I should not accept of any which was not suitable. Nevertheless, my dear friend, be assured that I shall ever retain a grateful and affectionate remembrance of the inhabitants, particularly of the Refuge.
My brother is still in the navy and upon the official lists; though from some unaccountable neglect, he is omitted in the lists published by Mr. Steel. I send you one of the official alphabetical lists of captains and lieutenants, in which all the officers of my acquaintance have a mark against them, and in which you will find my brother. I shall send to Mr. Pitot a set of weekly newspapers, and desire him to let you see them: they will let tell you know how we are going on in England. As to peace, I fear there is no prospect of it.
I have seen Elder a few months ago, and told of your inquiries and of Maurico's compliments. He was pleased with both, and was very well. Soon after his arrival he got appointed Master at arms, a kind of head police officer, on board a line of battle ship; in which situation he is at present, with rear-admiral Hollowell in the Mediterranean, who befriends him. Mrs. Flinders is now fast approaching to the time of her deliverance from her burthen. She has hitherto had a remarkably good time, for one of her delicate constitution; and we have every hope will do well. Her sister Isabella comes next week, to take care of the house and of me, during the inter-regnum upon herself the office of regent of my domestic affairs, till Mrs. F. is able to re-assume the reins of government. There is no probability of an union betwixt her and my brother: she is a very decisive lady, and seems to have taken a dislike to him.
My cousin Henrietta (Mrs. Newbald) is well at Hull, but I fancy has no prospect of any family: she is to be marraine to my first. My two married sisters are both unwell in as par suite d'accouchements: One has had the misfortune to lose both her children; the other has, I think, six; one of which bears my two names. Thus My youngest sister is just now of age, and unmarried; living with her mother whose health has lately very much declined. Thus I have spoken of every one of my family, of whom you have any knowledge
I am glad to hear that Aristide has got a situation. To make a beginning. I beg to be kindly remembered to him and to my friend Marc.
[Page 158]
Madame DArifat
and also to the good families Curtat, Sauvejet, Froberville etc. etc. and our good neighbours both at Vacoua and Tamarinds.
I think it somewhat extraordinary, that I have no letter from my friend Charles; more especially as I received a packet from colonel Keating, dated at the Cape of Good Hope, on his intended way home. Pray remember me most kindly to my worthy friends at Bourbon; and request Charles to say to colonel Keating, that I have received his commissions and will dully execute them; but being much pressed for time, beg him to accept that assurance and my compliments in place of a letter
My good wife joins in best wishes and regards to you, my dear Madam and our friends of the Refuge, with
Your most affectionate & devoted friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I am in correspondence with Philip Desbassayns, and from him I learn that the following persons are seeking to go out to the I. of France by the first opportunity
M. Panon Desbassayns, femme et enfant
Mad. Janvier Monsseron avec huit enfans
M. et Mad. Bush
Mlle. de Souville
M. Dujardet et trois enfans
Mad. Lemarchand et quatre enfans
M. Lespervanche
Mad. Desbrulys avec trois enfans
Mr. Labauve - Tamarinds near Black River, I. of France
(McCarthy) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Labauve London Mar. 7. 1812
From In a letter which Major Leitch wrote to his mother, I was informed of your projected marriage with the accomplished Miss Delphine Perichon; and by a letter from your good mother, dated Nov. 2. last, I learn that the union had then taken place. Accept, my good friend, my sincere congratulations thereon. May you be long and truly happy, with the lady for whom I knew you to have long had a preference partiality. To see that you [indecipherable] have the pleasure of seeing so adds to the desire I have to revisit my friends in the Isle of France; but I believe I must be content with hearing it from others of your happiness; but pray let it be from yourself In truth, my friend, it must be yet some time, if ever, that I can expect the pleasure
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the pleasure of seeing you, unless you will come to England. There is no present prospect of any voyage of discovery; or that I shall be wanted to fill a situation at Mauritius; and indeed if there were, I do not expect to be at liberty in less from my present task, in less than eighteen months.
In the letter I have written you since my arrival wrote you soon after my arrival in England, I requested you to dispose of my cows, now fixed as I if you found any inconvenience in keeping them; I wish them, nevertheless however, to increase to ten before any are sold according to our agreement, provided it you are not incommoded by them. but if not, to let them go on increasing to ten before any are sold, according to our agreement. It was indee as you observed singular enough, that a calf should arrive on the new years days of 1810 and 11; and who knows but the same may have taken place this year. I expect, in a few weeks, to have a calf born to me of another kind; but I much doubt that it will be so profitable an one, as those under your care
I take It would give me pleasure, my dear Labauve, to learn how you find your plantation business danswer, since the change of government. I fear that the restrictions which are not yet taken off, from the trade of the island, will prevent you receiving that advantage which might have been expected under an English government. At present, however, you have nothing that would come to a good market here, except, perhaps, cotton: Coffee and sugar scarcely pay the expenses of carriage, even from the West Indies; and when this stagnation of trade will cease, seems to be very uncertain; for Bonaparte still perseveres in excluding all commerce from the continent, although he grants a few licences for individuals to trade, by way of especial favour
Will you present my respectful and friendly compliments to your Madame Labauve; and remember me kindly to the good André, as also to the neighbours Suasse, Herbeck, and the Labuttes. Do you see Major Millar or Major Leitch? When you do, pray remember me to them
Believe me, my dear Labauve, your affectionate
and sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thos. Pitot - merchant - Port Louis - Isle of France
(By Mr. McCarthy 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear friend London Mar. 8. 1812
Your letter dated Nov. 9. at the Cape of Good Hope, was received on Jan. 24. following. The place of its date did indeed surprise me, and the cause of your being there was a cause of sorrow a subject of regret. I hope the Admiralty Court at the Cape will have done you as much justice, as our friend Roux and M. Barrault have obtained in England for the passengers of the General Wellesley. I will not enter into the details of that business, but tell you what has hap -
[Page 160]
Mons. T. Pitot
has happened since Roux wrote to you. He, and M. Barrault with his family, shifted the remains of their property, for there had been a good deal of pillage, into a cartel called the Frederic, destined to carry them to Morlaix. They were detained some time by foul winds; and when they sailed and had reached within twelve leagues of their port, were driven back, and took refuge in Fowey, near Plymouth; whence I received a letter from him dated, dated Feb. 12. last: A few days afterwards, they doubtless arrived at Morlaix.
Roux entertains the project of returning back to England, in a few months; and engaging in a speculation to the Isle of France; so that before twelve months are over, you will very probably see him
Since I have received letters from Mad. D'Arifat, the last dated as lately as Nov. 2., brought I believe by captain Cator of the Acteon. La I find by them it, that a box I sent in March last, containing some articles for you and Mad. DArifat's family, had not been received. The box was addressed to you, and committed to the care of Mr. Rashleigh, of the Company's ship Marquis of Ely; with a recommendation, if the ship did not go to the Isle of France, to commit it to the care of Commissioner Shield, at the Cape, who was requested to forward it. Afterwards, I requested Henry Desbassayns to get the box, should he find the ship at Spithead or the Cape; but on his arrival at the latter place she had sailed for China; and nothing was heard of the box. There was nothing in it for you, my friend, but a few magazines and a letter; but several things for the D'Arifat family
In my With my last letter of Dec. 16. by Mons. Doguet, I forwarded you two letters from Madame Brunet, and sent you about three months of Bell's weekly messenger. Mr.Roux also wrote you by that opportunity, and afterwards by Mr. McCarthy going out Deputy pay-master to Mauritius. Some days since I learned to my surprise, that Mr. McCarthy had not yet sailed; and therefore I determined to profit by the opportunity which that the gentlemen had the goodness to offer me. I send you, my friend, the continuation of Bells paper up to this day; with a request that you will send communicate them to be read to Madame D'Arifat.
The correspondence relative to my parole, journal, and vessel, is still going on between the Transport Office and the French minister of marine. It is really surprising what evasive answers have been hitherto given to the demands upon these subjects. The minister says he will write to general DeCaen about the journal, but he never seems to get an answer. The parole, he will not make any answer upo mention say any thing about it; being ashamed to acknowledge, as I believe, that any was ever exacted from me. Thus the case now stands; but another strong representation went over a few days since
I continue writing at my voyage as before; exceedingly anxious to get it finished, as well in compliance with the wishes of my friends, as to put an end to the expenses I am incurring, and which much exceed my scanty
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fortune. I shall have done writing, as I hope, in twelve months; but it will be the middle of next year before I shall have done with correcting the press and the engraving of the charts. I have no idea of what I may do afterwards. There is no talk of prosecuting discovery; and I have no intention of applying for a ship in the common line of service. It is, therefore, likely, that I shall may retire into Lincolnshire, my native province; live upon my little income, and divide my time betwixt my garden and my study.
Mrs. Flinders, I am happy to say, has been remarkably well, since she has shewn signs of being in the family way: She expects to be delivered in the course of this month. My brother lives in London near us, and is employed with the astronomical observations of our voyage: he has not been at sea for some time, and seems to have no great affection for the naval service. My former letters have spoken so amply upon several topics, that I refrain from entering again upon them. I will therefore conclude, my dear friend Thomy, with assuring you of the continuance of my warm and sincere friendship and of the esteem of my wife. Remember me kindly to Edward, Mr. and Mrs. Pitot, and all the members of your worthy family; also to such of my other friends as remain in the island. Say to Major Leitch, that I had the pleasure of calling in Sloane Street a short time since, and that his mother was very well; and beg him to accept my friendly remembrances
Very affectionably Yours
Mattw. Flinders
Mons. Philip Desbassayns, a Paris
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Sir London March 24. 1812
I have to thank you, very sincerely, for the trouble and interest you have had the goodness to take in what concerns me, and of which your letter of Dec. 14. last gives me the most satisfactory proof. I have delayed, until this time, writing an answer, partly because it was first necessary to learn the sentiments of two departments of the government, upon some points and in partly from want of an opportunity. But so soon as your letter was received, I occupied myself with th your application for a permission to send out a cartel to the Isle of France. Having, fortunately, a friend who is a member of the Board of Trade, he was good enough to lay that separate portion of your letter before the Board; but it received a decided negative. And it appears, that there are no other means for persons in France to go out to the islands, than either to come, in the first place, to England, similar to as what was done by Mr. Henry Desbassayns or to go from France in an American ship. I requested Mr. Dorr to communicate this to you immediately, and am assured it was done
Upon the subject of my parole, what was ordered in your presence to make part of a letter
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Mr. P. Desbassayns
of a letter, in answer to the application from our Transport Board, would have completely satisfactory, had it been written; but in the answer, which came at the same time with your letter, and of which a copy was sent to me, there was no mention made, either of my parole, or liberation from it; and I, therefore, remained in the same situation as before
Relative to the journal, the answer to general said that general DeCaen had again been written to, upon the subject. But no better hopes of obtaining it were given, than in former answers; and since the general was permitted to leave Paris without being applied to for it, I can conceive very little hopes of success. It is to me a subject of surprise, that the general should not be satisfied with retaining a copy of such parts of my journal, as he might think necessary to answer any attack which he thinks may be made upon him. This would undoubtedly be sufficient, were he conscious of the propriety of his conduct towards me; but if he has represented my journal to contain what it does not contain, he would naturally wish to prevent it being seen; since the production of it, would be a refutation of his calumny. It is in this light alone, that I can consider, the retention of my his anxiety to retain the journal.
The answer made, upon relative to the restitution of my vessel, was most extraordinary. It said "Le bâtiment du capitaine Flinders était a l'Isle de France lors de la capitulation de cette colonie. Il se trouve rentré, par le fait, au pouvoir du gouvernement Anglais". The empty and rotten hull of the vessel was probably given up at the capitulation; but all the store, that is very different to the state in which she was taken from me seven years before, when well fitted with every store for making a voyage to Europe. It is grievous to see, that the influence of a particular private man, or that any policy should make such evasions necessary or advisable. It shews me, however, that there was no intention of restoring the value of the vessel to the English government
From the suggestion of your letter, I sought to induce the government to make the vessel over to me; that I might be enabled, through your kind offices, to claim it in my own name. I estimated the vessel and stores at 2,500 Spanish dollars; and the property taken from me, personally, and not restored, at 100 more. It was long before I obtained any answer as to my proposed claim; but it was then said that the government itself would make another application for h it; and in fact, I know that M. Rivière has again been written to upon all the subjects which concern me; and that an answer is now daily expected
This, my dear Sir, being the state of the case, I fear it is not in your power to serve me further than that, if you learn that my journal cannot be procured from general DeCaen, you could by any means procure me a copy of it. But should you be able to do this, it will be necessary that a careful distinction should be made the person who makes the copy should carefully distinguish between what is in my own
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writing, and any additions or insertions that which may have been made in by another hand, as also to notice any erasures. It is by no means for the sake of attacking general DeCaen that I desire the journal; but it is of no use to me in that respect; put it is necessary to complete the account of my voyage, which cannot be done without it; and as you will be fully aware of the accuracy required, when giving information upon which the safety of ships may depend, or when speaking to the public, it is unnecessary to say how much preferable my own original journal would be, than a copy, if can possibly be obtained; nor have I the intention of attacking that officer, further than to state the plain circumstances of my case, and to shew that I had strictly adhered to the terms of my passport. Upon the intimation you give of my conduct the report concerning the capture of the island, I can only say that I have literally followed the parole which was required of me on quitting the island; and shall continue so to do, until I am officially liberated from it
I will only add upon the subject of my imprisonment in the Isle of France, that I have thereby lost six years of advancement as post captain in the navy and was kept near seven years from my family and affairs; besides suffering the indignities and privations incident to the imprisonment detention of a suspected person. For these I should conceive, the French government owes me an indemnity which professes to patronise scientific pursuits, and whose passport was violated, owes me an indemnity, since no breach of the passport has, or can be proved against me. This, however, is more than I can expect under the existing circumstances of the two nations; but I do and it will be well, if my parole, journal, and vessel are obtained
One volume of the account of captain Baudin's voyage of discovery has been published, with plates, by the late M. Péron; and a nautical account of the expedition, with charts, has been announced several years. I should be very glad to know whether this last is yet published; and if not, what are the causes reasons which have so long caused the delay. If you could procure me this information, I should be obliged
I have received letters from the Isle of France dated in November last. M. Henry D. had then safely arrived, with his family, and was to sail for Bourbon in a few days. Ch My friend Charles was well, and had resigned his situation of inspector-general of the interior. He has now two children, the last of which is called Henry Flinders Desbassayns. He and his family were well, as I learned from his mother-in-law, the worthy Madame D'Arifat.
I beg you to present my friendly remembrances to M. Panon Desbassayns. Should he have occasion to come to London, it will give me great pleasure to see him; and to render such services as may be within my power, as I should to you, my dear Sir, or any person of your family
Your very obliged and faithful servant
Mattw. Flinders
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Mr. Henry Wiles - H.M. ship Bedford in the Downs -
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Dear Henry London Mar. 25.1812
I received your letter of the 19 th., stating that you had written to your father requesting him to remove you from the sea service to some other profession. I think you have not sufficiently considered before doing this, nor are aware of the consequences both to your father, and to your self own reputation. Your father has been put to an expense in fitting you for, and placing you in your present situation beyond what, in the present circumstances he can afford; but as he saw no other prospect of providing honourably for you in life, and he had a friend who undertook to place his son, he willingly consented to the expense both of his education and outfit. And now he is to learn, that the sacrifice he has made is to no purpose; and that his son, after voluntarily embracing the profession, and being placed by his friend more advantageously than almost any young man at his first entrance, his son now desires to be taken from that sole profession situation, and that his father should incur a fresh expense to him to some other profession which it is probably out of the power either of himself or his friends to do.
Do you consider, with respect to yourself, that you ran away from school, wishing to go to sea; and that in less than three months, before you have seen any thing of the service, you are applying to quit the sea! There is no confidence to be placed in a man who acts thus. I suppose you are annoyed by the follies and nonsense of your companions, and by their mischievous tricks; but do you suppose that every officer, even the greatest men in the service have not all had to go through the same, more or less, before you. These things only required to be faced, to be overcome; and surely you are not prepared to make the shameful acknowledgement, that you do not possess the very common strength of mind which is sufficient for the task. You must play trick for trick and return jest for jest, and the annoyance you feel at present will soon cease. With respect to any other objection you may have to the sea service, as you do not mention any, I am a stranger to it, and can say nothing
It was my intention to place you in the first frigate I could find going out to the West Indies, that you might have an opportunity of seeing your father; and then if you should still object to the sea service, you can consult with him upon what other plan can be adopted. This is all that I can do for you; as to changing your line of life myself, I can have nothing to say to it: on quitting the sea service, you quit all title to my protection or care
I request that you will let me know in a few weeks what your
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real wishes are; and in the hope that you will see the weakness of quitting an honourable profession before having made a sufficient trial, I still subscribe my self, dear Henry,
your affectionate friend
and humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. It is proper you should be informed, that your manner of concluding a letter is neither graceful done with grace nor with respect. In writing to a person, at all your superior in life, it is not proper to say, I am your obedient etc. the etc. is an abridgment which politeness does not allow. When you write to one, who has rendered you any service, it is proper that your sense of the obligation should be expressed, either by signing obliged humble servant, or I am, with many thanks for your kind attention, or in such other way as the case may require. Neither should you say Give my compliments to Mrs. Flinders; but rather, will you have the goodness to present my compliments respectful compliments etc. These are trifles Henry, but they have shew the difference betwixt a gentleman and a common person, and have more influence upon the good or bad opinion which will be entertained of you, than you can, at present, be aware.
Mr Joseph Robinett - Cook of H.M. ship [indecipherable], Sheerness
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Mr. Robinett London March 27. 1812
From a letter received yesterday from the Commissioners of the Navy, it appears that if you have not received your yet obtained yetyour pay for from the time you was on board the were discharged from the Investigator under my command, into the Porpoise for a passage to England, until your arrival, and entry in the Castor, in the Downs; You are, nevertheless, certainly entitled to be paid for that time, as the following passage in the Commissioners letter it clearly shows. receive it. The commissioners write to me They say "That those men who rejoined the service on the first opportunity, after the loss of the Porpoise, in which they first embarked, will be paid to the day of their entry in the first King's ships they may have joined; provided they have received no pay when on board a merchant ship."
I shall ask lieutenant Flinders whether you or any of the people with him, did receive any pay either on board the Rolla or the Bombay Castle; and if not, will endeavour to obtain a certificate from him to that effect, and transmit it to you with this letter. Your good services and conduct when under my command, and in the Reliance, from 1794 to 1803, will make me at all times desirous of serving you, and you are at liberty
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Mr. Robinett
to produce this letter at the comm pay office at Sheerness, or elsewhere if it can be useful to you
I remain, your faithful friend
and servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain R.N.
This is to certify, that Mr. Joseph Robinett, late cook of H.M. ship Investigator, embarked with me in the ship Rolla for a passage to China, after the shipwreck of H.M. armed vessel Porpoise in the South Sea; and also, that he was one of a party of petty officers and men, sent under my command on board the Company's ship Bombay Castle at China; and for a passage to England. Also that on our arrival in the Downs in August 1804, he went on board H.M. frigate Castor; and that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, he received no pay or wages from the Rolla or from the Bombay Castle.
Given under my hand, at London, this
2ndth. day of March April 1812
Signed S.W. Flinders - Lieut. R.N.
Mrs. Flinders, Donington near Boston Lincholnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear mother London April 2. 1812
I have the great satisfaction to say, that Mrs. Flinders was happily relieved from her burthen, yesterday afternoon. She bore the trial with great heroic fortitude, and thus far is doing remarkably well, and we hope with every prospect of continuance. The child is a little black-eyed girl, without blemish, neither fit nor lean, and has a decent appearance enough; so that I hope you will have no occasion to be ashamed of it as a grand daughter. Pray communicate this intelligence to its two aunts, with our affectionate remembrances.
I received, about ten days ago, the £15 of the tax paid on John's annuity; but the Commissioners would not pay back for this year until after Lady day. In about ten days more I expect to receive the remaining £3 and will then pay the sum, deducting £10, to Messrs. Frampton's, on Mr. Dodd's account, conformably to your wish. But I beg, my dear mother, that if you have still any necessity for the
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£10, that you will say so, and I will then pay the whole £18 to Framptons. Should you wish this, pray let me know; and that do it without any ceremony or unwillingness; for be assured, that I shall never consider you under any other obligation for whatever I can do for you, than to but only that you will think of me and mine with kindness. You will of course place the £18 to the credit of John's account, and I am happy to say there has been no other expense in obtaining it, than that of my time.
You mention speak of your intention to give Mr. Large notice to quit, on ac for the purpose of raising the rent; but I should think, if Mr. L. agrees to pay the £27.10 from the commencing at this half year, that there would be no occasion. Pray do, however, what after consulting with Mr. Dodd, what you judge necessary and proper
My house keeper princess-regent, Miss Tyler, is very well and is obliged by your kind remembrances: she desires me to present her you her best respects, and remembrances to my sisters. Poor Samuel was knocked down and attempted to be robbed near Temple Bar, on Saturday night. He came off with a swelled face, and bruised thumb but and the villain escaped from the [indecipherable]. He is now getting better, and will be perfectly recovered in a few days. The villain escaped unluckily
I remain, my dear Madam, with respect and
affection
your very sincere friend and
son in law
Mattw. Flinders
John Wilson Crocker Esq. Admiralty Office
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square
April 13. 1812
Dear Sir
James Park Esq. Master - attendant - Portsmouth Dockyard
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London May 10. 1812
My dear Sir
You are, no doubt, acquainted with the nature of some experiments which I proposed to the Admiralty should be made, for ascertaining the certain differences in the variation of the compass, which appears I had found to arise from changing the direction of the ship's head. I was sent down to Sheerness to superintend the experiments there; and the differences were found to take place as I had mentioned; but owing to a want of good compasses, and of the necessary preparations for working the ship's round, and keeping them steady with their heads in different directions, the quantities of the differences could not be obtained with accuracy
The same experiments have, I find, been ordered at Portsmouth and Plymouth
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Mr. Park - Portsmouth
and Plymouth; but at your dock yard port, they have been delayed until some instruments, applied for by Mr. Inman, could be sent down from London. Yesterday, I received an Admiralty order to go down to Portsmouth to attend the experiments; and as I find the instruments will be ready in a very few days, I shall probably have the pleasure of seeing you on Wednesday or Thursday next
As I cannot doubt but you feel an interest in a subject which it is important to navigation should be investigated, I will mention to you the preparation which I judge to be necessary for making the experiments on ship board complete.
The most convenient ship for the purpose is one without a poop, and with a flush deck if you have one in the harbour. She should have her guns on board, and be as nearly in the same state as when going to sea. We shall require want Six azimuth compasses will be wanted, all of the same construction; and I think Walker's are the best. Each of these compasses will require a three legged stand, such as are commonly used at sea, and may be made in the dock yard. Two or three dock-launches, with hawsers in them to warp an ready to be carried out, for warping the ship round, and keeping her head steady in any required direction, will also be wanted; and as a strong tides much increases the difficulty of keeping the ship steady, it is advisable that the ship she should be placed were where there is as little tide as possible
I should be much obliged if you would, as far as depends upon you, have these preparations made ready; and as the Admiral and the Commissioner have doubtless received orders directions upon the subject, I should hope there will be no obstacles. I propose writing a few lines upon the subject to my friend Mr. Inman, but shall refer him to you will thank you to communicate to him the principal contents of this letter.
Mrs. Flinders joins me in of friendly kind remembrances to you and to Mrs. Park, with, my dear Sir
Your affectionate friend and
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 169]
Mr. Inman, Royal Academy - Portsmouth
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
May 10. 1812
Dear Sir
The admiralty communicated to me a copy of your letter applying for a dipping needle, and an apparatus for ascertaining the diurnal variation, in order to elucidate more fully the differences in the mag direction of the magnetic needle on ship board, arising from a change in the direction of the ship's head. This application gave me pleasure, in as much both as it showed you took an interest in the subject, and because experiments with the dipping needle are what I wished to have added to those of with the compass, but feared to propose too much at once, lest the admiralty should have being alarmed at the number, and should not have ordered any thing.
Last night I received an order directions to go down to Portsmouth to be present at the experiments; but as I found that Troughtons had not quite finished the instruments, I propose deferring my journey until that time for a few days. On Wednesday or Thursday, however, I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you; and in the mean time, I have written to my old and friend Mr. Park, requesting him to he would have the goodness to forward certain preparations which are necessary to the experiments on ship board being made with the necessary accuracy. In doing th I am persuaded, that, if any thing in these preparations, or in any other which may be deemed necessary, should depend upon you, or upon your influence, that your aid will not be wanting; since the investigtion of this subject very nearly concerns hydrography and navigation in general, and of your zeal for the promotion of useful science, no doubt can be entertained
I remain, dear Sir,
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thos. Pitot merchant - Port Louis - I. of France
(Bickham) 7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
London May 11. 1812
My dear friend
The last letter I addressed to you was on March 10. of this year by Mr. McCarthy, inclosing some weekly papers; and I now send you a continuation of them, by Mr. Bickham, who has had the goodness to call on me and to offer his services. The French government has at length sent me a release from my parole; and promises to send back my journal, so soon as it can be obtained from general DeCaen; but this worthy
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Mr. Pitot
worthy man seems to have very little inclination to let it go out of his hands, [I am happy to say that Mrs. Flinders has got through her painful trial, and that her health is reestablished. She has brought out of the straw, a lively little girl, whom we have called Anne; and we hope will be a great comfort to us. She is lively, These, I think, are all the circumstances of interest which have occurred since my last. The politics you will better learn from the inclosed papers. They give little no prospect of peace betwixt France and England; and the sole little hope there is of that desirable event seems to depend upon the mutual distresses of both countries. Whether then Russia and Sweden will venture to resist Bonaparte's continental system, seems also uncertain, although those countries are arming themselves apparently with that intention. The French have no longer any footing in Portugal, and they seem to be losing ground in Spain: Lord Wellington is th becoming the idol of those countries as he is of England
I just now receive a letter from my young friend Alfred Dale, formerly of the Maison Despeaux. He inquires kindly after you, and recollects, with gratitude, your kindness to our unfortunate countrymen. He is second lieutenant of La Belle Poule, and his letter is dated off Ushant. Mr. Aken is now in the West Indies, commanding a fine merchant ship. I expect him home in a few months
Young Boucherville and some other creoles are still prisoners here, nor can I do any thing to obtain their release. Their friends should write petitions to the Tra Commissioners of the Transport Board, and get the governor to sign his approbation of them. This measure can alone procure their liberation; unless an exchange of prisoners should be settled between the countries; but of this there is, unhappily, no present prospect.
I am going down to Portsmouth by order of the Admiralty to superintended some experiments upon the magnetism of ships; which are made at my suggestion. This subject you may remember occupied much of my thoughts in the Isle of France. I shall take this opportunity of going on board the Veteran prison ship, where Boucherville is confined, having been foolish enough to break not to keep his parole with strictness. I am sorry to say that some French generals even, have totally broken through their paroles; and that it is become very common, to the great detriment of those who are really men of honour
The inclosed letters are recommended to your care, and I will thank you to let my worthy friend Madame DArifat, see the papers. Believe me my dear friend, ever most affectionately and sincerely
Yours M.F. -
[Page 171]
-tions already made in your favour, I just just now despatched one addressed to the Right Hon. Richard Ryder; stating what I know of your family that the major part of your property was in Bourbon, and what I knew of your respectable family there. I stated also, that "you were not come over to England, not with any desire or intention of going out, but to reside in England where you may be able to make arrangements for receiving your revenues, from which you were totally cut off in France". I offered my responsibility for the correctness of your conduct, and begged that you might be authorised to reside in London, "at least till such time as you may be able to make the necessary arrangements respecting your property".
I cannot flatter myself that any application from me is of importance, especially as the mode of office is for mercantile men to apply for permissions to persons having mercantile affairs, but it may assist the applications before made, as I am able to speak from my own knowledge of you and your family
I sincerely hope that this, and the applications before made, will be attended with the desired effect, and that I may have the pleasure of seeing you, Madame Desbassayns, and your brother in London in a few days. In the mean time I beg you and them to be assured of the warm interest I take in your welfare, and to be as of my friendly consideration
The pressing nature of my own occupations in London has alone prevented me from the pleasure of seeing you at going down to Gravesend; but a few days will, I hope, put an end to your state of uncertainty, and afford me the satis superior satisfaction of seeing you here
I remain, with much esteem, my dear Sir,
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Felix Roger, French prisoner on board the Kron Princen, prison ship - Chatham
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London June 29. 1812
Sir
Your letter of the 12th. instant was transmitted to me from the Transport Office a few days since. I am extremely sorry to say, that no opportunity has yet presented itself for obtaining either your liberty, or that of several creoles of the Isle of France whom I am desirous to serve. The orders of the government are now such, that were you even at liberty, you could not be allowed to go to the islands; for several of the inhabitants who have come from France expressly for the purpose, have applied in vain for permission to go out; amongst others Mad. Monneron with her family, Mad. Coquerel, and Mons. Favier. This has arisen, as I am told, from the improper conduct of several young men who, having been permitted to return to Guadaloupe and Martinique, have been attempting to make insurrections, and otherwise giving much trouble to the government.
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Felix Roger
government. Thus the thoughtless proceedings of these individuals has done a real injury to numbers of their countrymen; and it is to be feared apprehended, that the astonishing number of French officers who have broken their parole in England, will be cause, that at length all will will be equally shut up in prison
I am really sorry, Sir, that it is not in my power to give you any better better subject of consolation, than the faint hope of an exchange of prisoners soon taking place between France and England; of which, however, there is no present prospect; and the sole service in my power to offer you is, to forward any letters to the Isle of France which you may send open to the Transport Office under cover to me; and for which an opportunity is likely to present itself in the course of a week
I remain Sir,
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Lieut Lemarant, French prisoner on parole at Alresford
London June 29. 1812
Sir
I have the honour to inform you, that captain Lemarant transmitted to me from Paris a duplicate of the cartel of exchange entered into by him with the commander of the Nevis Planter, and in which your name was inserted to be exchanged for exchange. This duplicate I transmitted to the Transport Office with an application for you to be permitted to return to France; but am informed, in answer, that the exchange entered into by your brother, has been completed, and is acknowledged to be so by the French government. So that, Sir, whilst you were at Halifax, some more fortunate French officer has reaped the advantage which your brother had intended for you
I am truly sorry for the circumstance; but hope it will not be very long before a general exchange between the two countries, will restore you and a multitude of valuable individuals on both sides, to their your families and friends.
I have the honour to be, Sir
Your most obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
captain R.N.
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square July
My dear friend London July 2. 1812
I have not received any letter from you since my last of March 5th.; at which time I was wholly unacquainted that Henry had written to you by captain Aken, to say, that a sea life did not suit him, and that he desired to quit it. He wrote me a little time afterwards to that effect; and I gave him an
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him such an answer, as I thought, best calculated to make him take a better view of the subject; and it seems to have produced a good effect. His last says, that he has at length consented to make himself as comfortable as he can in his present situation; and I trust he will get the upper hand of the mischievous roguery of his companions, which I believe to have been the real cause of his dislike. The Bedford is one of the ships employed in blockading the French fleet in the Scheldt; a service which is not very active, but I do not know where to find a better for him. It is indeed, much more difficult than I was aware, to get a youngster received into a ship; and I have been trying in vain to place young Hollingworth, who has just now left Dr. Burney's academy.
These last two months I have been broken off from my voyage, by the Admiralty, to make experiments at Sheerness and Portsmouth upon the magnetism of ships, by which I had found in the Investigator, that the compass needle at the binnacle stood differently when the ship's head was changed; and after much laborious investigtion, I found out fixed on the cause of the differences, and ascertained the laws by which they are governed. The On board five ships in England wh on board which the experiments which have been tried, differences nearly similar to those in the Investigator are found to exist, and they demonstrates the general truth of the system which I had formed. At this time, I am occupied making out for the Admiralty a report of the experiments, with my deductions from them, and pointing out the means of obviating the errors: a paper which may possibly will make material some change in marine surveying, and I hope improve navigation in general, if that attention is paid to it, which the subject, from its importance, seems to merit. Whether any advantage to myself, beyond a small share of reputation for the discovery, will result from it, is at yet uncertain: My report will be sent in a few days; and in a month, I may possibly learn its fate
In the month of April, Mrs. Flinders was safely delivered of a little girl, which we have named Anne. The child is doing well, and according to a father's fond opinion, promises to be active and intelligent. Mrs. F. is perfectly restored to health, and desires to join in me to present her compliments. I hope to have a letter from you very soon; and in the mean time remain, my dear Wiles,
your very affectionate and sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
To the account of Henry's outfit sent you in March, amounting to £47.14.7, exclusive of £9 remaining from Mr. Brown, is added £10 drawn by Mr. Franklin on my agent, for him. This I intended him to receive every six months; but the his further drawing must depend upon what you may write upon the subject.
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Mr. Thos. Pitot, merchant, Port Louis Isle Mauritius
(Capt. Waters) 7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square
My dear friend London July 14. 1812
I inclose you some a continuation of Bell's weekly messengers, from my received since being a continuation of those sent with my last of May 11. by Mr. Bickham; as I think this paper one of the best for giving an account of our commercial markets. I have received no letter from you, since, that dated in November last, at the Cape of Good Hope, though I have had a short one from Labauve, dated in January, and also one from Madame Boucherville relative to her son. The next arrivals will, I hope, bring me one from you
I told you, that the Admiralty had sent me down to Portsmouth to make experiments upon the errors produced in the compass by the attraction of ships; I saw at the Isle of Wight whilst there I saw Mr. Bickham, who was waiting for convoy, and sailed a few days afterwards. My experiments fully proved the truth of the statement I had made to the Admiralty; and since then I have been lately occupied making out a report of them, and pointing out of the means to be adopted to obviate the them errors, and prevent the losses recurrences of those losses of ships which have arisen from allowing a wrong variation to the compass. Should the Admiralty adopt the plans I have recommended, navigation and hydrography will receive a greater degree of advancement towards perfection than they have done for many years. My report was sent in a few days ago, but what may be its reception is yet uncertain: Like all other new things, this discovery will have many prejudices and perhaps apathy to encounter.
Messieurs Panon and Philip Desbassayns have come over from France, in order to get their Bourbon affairs settled, and I hope they will succeed: the former with his lady is fixed near us, and has no intention of returning to France; but Philip goes back in a short time. Madame Monneron has at length obtained a permission to go out to Mauritius, and I hope M. Favier, who is with her, will be included in it: He has this instant left me, in great fears of being left behind. I have done every thing in my power both for Mad. Monneron and M. Favier; but unfortunately, that every thing has not been much.
I was surprised the other day by the appearance of our old friend John Exshaw. He had been taken going from Bourdeaux to America and had just then returned from Ireland. He but has, I believe, repurchased his vessel, and possibly may be with you before long; but whether before he goes to America, is uncertain. He quitted London some days ago; but whether he is and may perhaps be already sailed I know not
I am now, my friend, again at work upon my voyage, and hope that the end of this year will see it well advanced. I do not, however, expect to have fully done with it before the end of 1813; a period to which I look forward with much anxiety, as the termination of my residence in London, where I find it
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impossible to live upon my little income. My wife and little girl, I am happy to say are both well, and my own health was never better; so that had I a fair prospect of living comfortably without diminishing my little property, no man living would be more happy.
The orders in council, you will see by the papers, are done away; and commerce already begins to rear its drooping head; but I fear they have already done more mischief, than their abolition can repair. With respect to the commerce of your island, I fear nothing is yet settled; nor perhaps will it until the affair of the Company's charter is decided, which will be in about less than two years. There is then little doubt that you will then have a free commerce with England, as well as with India. To be advantageous to you, however, the markets of the continent must be opened, either wholly or in part; and this the French emperor still opposes with the most determined perseverance: He is now upon the confines of Russia, and what will be the result Heaven only knows.
I learn from Mr. Desbassayns, that Baudin's voyage is not yet finished. The funds destined for it have been diverted to other purposes Peron's second volume is in slow progress, and the nautical part, with the charts, are in hand; but when they will be published seems quite uncertain
Adieu, my dear Thomy, for the present. Be so good as to forward the inclosed letters, and to remember me kindly to your family and all my old friends.
Yours most affectionately and sincerely
Mattw. Flinders
Madame de Boucherville - Riviere du Tamarin
(Capt. Waters) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London July 14. 1812
Madam
I had the honour to receive your letter of January last, relative to your son; for whom I had previously done every thing in my power. Unfortunately he had not remained so strictly with sufficient strictness at the pla town where he was placed on parole; which was cause that he was put on board a prison ship, and very much increases the difficulty of doing anything in his favour. I saw him at Portsmouth on board the Veteran in May last; and he had then a prospect of being liberated from thence; but I could not flatter him with the hope of returning to the Mauritius, before some material change should take place unless you, Madam, can obtain from the governor to write to the Secretary of State, requesting his return to Mauritius, I fear there is little hope of his liberty perfect liberty until an exchange of prisoners is made between France and England
I beg you, Madam, to be assured persuaded of my sincere desire to serve your son; and every inhabitant of Mauritius request that you and the Mr. de Boucherville will accept the assurance of my respectful consideration
Your most obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
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Monsieur Charles Desbassayns, Rivière des Pluies, près St. Denis, I. of Bourbon
(Capt. Waters) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear friend London July 14. 1812
Your most beloved worthy brother Panon and his wife, are in London, living not far from me. Philip is also here; but as you will receive letters from them, it is unnecessary to enter into explanations upon their business and views; and I shall therefore speak of my own
In the first place, my friend, I have received no letter from you since my departure from Mauritius. This does neither weaken my friendship towards you, nor make me suspect in any change in yours; but I am, nevertheless, anxious to have a letter from you; and hoped, that on the arrival of Henry you would have found time to write occasionally; and I will still entertain the prospect that a letter for me is on its way
The intention I had formed of letting the little sum, which you have the goodness to manage for me, remain until it should have amounted to something considerable, cannot, I fear, be fully executed. The limited state of my fortune and the great expenses of living in England obliges me to look out on all sides for the means of being able to support the great expenses of living in England, which are, beyond all former periods, extravagant, particularly in London, where my present occupation obliges me to reside. In about less two years, the terms of the Company's new charter will be settled; and there is every reason to suppose, that you will then have free intercourse and commerce with England; and consequently, the means of making remittances. Until that time, I shall endeavour to get on as well as I can; but should the interest of money be then less than eight per cent, I request you to take the earliest advantageous opportunity of sending me the thousand dollars, with the interest which may have arisen thereon, (deducting all expenses of management), either in bills on London or such other way as you judge best addressed to my agent W. A. Standert Esq. Clifford's Inn Fleet Street London, or in such other way as you may judge proper to be best. But should the interest of money be above eight per cent, I do not wish the any remittance to be made until you hear further from me. Thus much upon that business
I have been lately broken off from writing the account of my voyage, in order to make experiments upon the magnetism of ships, which were directed by the Admiralty. This subject, you may remember, occupied a part of my time at Mauritius, and the new experiments have fully confirm the opinion I had formed upon it. The report which I have just sent to the Admiralty will I hope, be the means of producing some improvements in navigation and hydrography; but as it will have many prejudices to contend with, I dare not be very sanguine
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as to the reception attention it my obtain. I have now returned to At this time I am again occupied with the account of my voyage; and hope that the expiration of this year, will see if far advanced: the publication is likely to take place in the spring of 1814; and I do not think, that the French voyage of Baudin will be completed published before that time
After many letters written by our Admiralty, I have the French government has at length obtained sent me a release from the parole which I was required to sign by general DeCaen; but my journal is still retained, and nothing satisfactory answer can be learned procured relative to my little vessel, the Cumberland. The general did not give my journal into the office of the marine minister; but keeps it himself, as a means of he declared, to repelling the attack which he expects will be made upon him in my publication.
Mrs Flinders brought me, about three months since, a lively little girl whom we have called Anne: both are well and add indescribably to my happiness. I want nothing, indeed, to make it complete, but to see my income equal to the expenses of my situation. She desires her kind compliments to you, your brother Henry and your respective good ladies
Adieu my dear Charles. Present Mrs. Flinders' and my kindest remembrances to your worthy partner, to little Lis Pauline, and to my namesake. You have fulfilled your part of our contract of friendship , and when with respect to him, and when the times comes I will fulfil mine. Remember me to Please give our compliments to your brother Henry and his Madame Desbassayns. and believe me lady, my remembrances to colonel Keating, and believe me
Your very affectionate and sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
Madame DArifat - Wilhem's Plains - Mauritius
No.8 (Capt. Waters) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Madam London July 15. 1812
My last letter of May 11th. would, I am sure, give you pleasure from the circumstance of its being carried by Mr. Bickham, and from the interest you take would, take in his arrival on account of his family, you would take in his arrival. I saw Mr. B. at Portsmouth just before he sailed, and about the same time arrived a short letter from my friend Labauve, dated January 2.; but, what surprises me, it was unaccompanied by any, either from you or my friend Pitot
The object of my visit to Portsmouth was to make some experiments upon the magnetism of ships, and the result was conformable to the theory I had formed in the Isle of France upon the subject. A few days since I sent on a report my report was sent to the Admiralty upon this subject, and I hope it may prove the means of advancing navigation and hydrography, and preventing the loss of many ships and men. Every new thing has, however, two enemies to encounter; apathy first, and if it overcomes that, it has to fight against old prejudices; whether this little discovery will succeed against both or either of these enemies to truth, is yet very uncertain
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Madame D'Arifat
We have now for neighbours Mr. and Mrs. Panon Desbassayns, who, with their brother Philip lately arrived from Paris, in order to find the means of withdrawing their property from Bourbon. Panon has, I believe, no intention of returning to France; the nature of the government there is what he feels himself unable to support. It seems that the inhabitants of Bourbon and Mauritius who refused to take the oath of allegiance and went to France, have been sadly disappointed in their expectations. Instead of being caressed for their fidelity, and obtaining situations equal to what they had given up, Buonaparte, when applied to, in their favour, answered "I should like to see any body refuse me the oath of allegiance, in any country I conquer"! And there are very few of those persons who are not seeking for opportunities to return. Pray tell Mr. Sauvejet this, and recommend to weigh every thing well before he quits his little retreat at the Rivière des Latanniers
Here, my dear friend, is a letter just reached me from your worthy sister, and which I enclose. It is dated 1811, but I hope it is by mistake, and that it was written in July 1812. Mr. Philip Desbassayns will return shortly to France, and I will then send to Madame Haumont my address, and request her to send her letters to him, who will forward them to me, and I to you. How happy I feel in having the prospect of rendering you what I know you will consider to be a real service. In the same manner, my dear Madam, I shall be able to forward your letters to Auray, but as the it will be necessary when there are no longer any cartels sailing from your island to France. It will be necessary, however, that you should write very small, and upon fine paper and very close such as that I inclose, and for the means I have of sending letters to France, do not admit of the letters being either thick or large
Mrs. Flinders and her little Anne are both in good health. The latter is a lively, black-eyed, snub-nosed little creature, wh and already makes motions to talk to talk and walk. She is not pretty; but promises to be more than commonly active and intelligent; and she occupies all her mother's thoughts by day and by night. I am now, indeed, as near to perfect happiness as it is usually permitted to man. There is, however, always some crocodile lurking at the bottom of the lucid spring; and my crocodile at present is, that my fortune is far from being adequate to my expenses. There never was a time when the expense of living in England was so great as at present, more particularly in London; and I shall not be able to retire to the country before my voyage is published, which will probably not be, before the spring of 1814. Then, if no situation or employment is offered to me, I propose to go into Lincolnshire
Accept, my dear Madam, the united assurance of esteem of and affectionate
I some time since received a letter without signature, from Mr. Froberville. Pray remember me kindly to him and his family, and assure he need not be under any alarm, upon the subject of his letter. The same friendly re-
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membrances I request may be made to the families Sauvejet, Curtat Lachaise etc. and especially to Labauve my friends Labauve and André, and their families. The last account which Labauve gave me back of my herd of cows, exceeded my expectations, and gave afforded a strong proof of his friendly care. Adieu, my dear Madam, accept the assurances of Mrs. Flinders and my great esteem and affection for you and our friends in your house, and believe me,
Your very sincere and obliged friend friend
Mattw. Flinders
Captain Fyffe H.M.S. Indefatigable - Spithead
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square
London July 28. 1812
Dear Sir
This will be delivered to you by my young friend Andrew Hollingworth, who arrived from Hull the day previously to that whereon I had the satisfaction to receive your letter from the Nore. Mr. A I have been busied with Mr. Allenby in getting his outfit completed with all expedition, and hope he will arrive in time
In compliance with your letter I inclose £10 (No. 14847) from Mr. Hollingworth the father; and Andrew takes down with him other £10 which will pay his expenses to the ship, and leave enough for the entry to his mess. He is authorized to draw for £10 every six months, upon and his bills upon Messrs - Robinson, Clarkson & Co. 18 Change Alley London to that amount, will be honoured on their bearing your indorsement: This sum may be made £30 annually, should you judge it necessary; but of this, the youngster, according to your desire, is not informed
I have caused him to be provided with every thing that seemed requisite, except with a quadrant and an additional second round hat; for which, on account of the inconven want of room in his chest, I have taken the liberty of inclosing an additional £5, (No. 16100) and requesting you will let them be purchased for him, at such time as you may judge proper. He has at Dr. Burneys, Cold Harbour, Gosport, some books volumes of voyages with atlasses of charts; but these being cumbrous, I thought it best they should be left for the present, until he has learned how to take care of himself and his things; but should you wish it however they can be got immediately
My young friend is now fifteen years of age, and therefore every day of time you can give him will be an object. He is not very bright in his appearance, and from inexperience in the world is timid; but Dr. Burney gives him a good character, both for solid ability and application; and I fully hope, that with a little care and instruction from one of the mates, he will very soon show himself worthy of the situation in which you have the goodness to receive him
His father's address is Andrew Hollingworth Esq. Albion Street - Hull and a few
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Capt. Fyffe
and a few lines from, you, at a convenient time, would be very acceptable to him.
I am, dear Sir, with esteem
your obliged and fait humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Dr. Burney, Gosport
London July 28. 1812
Dear Sir
I have been fortunate enough to obtain a situation for my young friend Hollingworth, with captain Fyffe of the Indefatigable. The captain wrote me from the Nore, on the 24th., that he was going round to Portsmouth and where Hollingworth goes down to join was to join. I have desired him to call upon you, to ask your assistance in getting on board; and I have to request, in the name of his father, that should the Indefatigable be not arrived, you will allow him to remain in your house till she does. The ship is not likely to remain stay many days, but is expected to join some one of the home squadrons.
Your will think perhaps think me negligent in not having before sent you the article upon the Magnetism of Ships. It is now nearly a month since my report of the experiments was sent in to the Admiralty; and in the letter which accompanied the report, I said to the secretary "The editor of a new edition of Falconer's marine dictionary having requested of me a communication upon the magnetism of ships, I beg you will have the goodness to inform me, whether, in case their Lordships should not intend to make the account public, they see any objection to my furnishing him with the leading facts it contains". To this letter, I have not yet received any answer; but so soon as one is given, the article shall be sent immediately to Murrays; unless, indeed, the admiralty should forbid it, which is not probable. So far as I can learn, the report either is in, or will be put into, the hands of some man of science, before a decision upon the importance of the discovery, and the use to be made of it, will be given; and I am every day expecting a communication upon the subject
I remain, dear Sir, with respect
Your faithful and obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Should the Indefatigable captain Fyffe be unfortunately sailed, Hollingworth must go on board the flag ship to be entered as a volunteer for the Indefatigable, and sent to her by the first opportunity. Captain Fyffe promised to give him his entry considers him as belonging to the ship from the 18th. last.
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Mr. William Carr. Market Place Louth, Lincolnshire
London July 28 1810
Dear Sir
I duly received your letter of June 24; and through the medium of a friend, applied to a respectable house in th concerned in the south-whale fishery, to get you a situation as surgeon, agreeably to your desire. I am concerned to state, that I this day received an answer, saying "that they never engage with any person who goes in their ships, but with the captain, and he goes upon shares of whatever is gained. The captain agrees also with the men he takes, for shares, and does not take any surgeon, unless he is capable of acting also as a whaler". I therefore see no prospect of your obtaining an employment in this trade; and with respect to a situation in a compting house, either at home or abroad, I fear it is not in my power to be of any service to you, both because London and all other places are full of young men desiring the same similar situations, and because of the very little acquaintance I have in this way
Had you gone through the hospitals and passed an examination at Surgeon's Hall, and I could have recommended you in the navy, it might have been in my power to have done you service, and been a source of great satisfaction to myself; but as you are now situated, I should conceive it most advisable for you to stick to the druggist line in which you were bred; and where, I should hope, by economy and good conduct, you might acquire a comfortable subsistence, joined to respectability
Mrs. Flinders and our little Anne are both well. She does joins in kind love to my aunt and cousins your sisters with, dear Sir;
your affectionate humble servant
and cousin
Mattw. Flinders
Philip Desbassayns Esq. Sablonnières hotel Leicester Square
Mary Street Aug. 7. 1812
Dear Sir
In answer to your request for information of the price of produce at the Isle of Mauritius, I can only say that a letter of Feb. 23 last from thence tells me that their cotton is selling at one-fifth of a dollar per pound, and coffee at five dollars the bag. The same letter says, what I am sorry to hear, that the inhabitants are quitting the island very fast. I remain dear Sir
Yours very truly
Mattw. Flinders
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Mons. de Boucherville, Forton prison, near Portsmouth
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Aug. 11. 1812
Dear Sir
So soon as I received your letter of the 3rd. instant, I went to the Transport Office to inquire whether any directions had been given for your liberty, but found there were none such in that office. I then wrote to the brother of governor Farquhar, who answered, that he had the charge of the governor's private affairs, but that "he had not written anything to him respecting M. de Boucherville, nor has the governor any uncle". I then went to the office of the Secretary of State for the colonies, and saw Mr. Penn, the agent for Mauritius; but he knew of no application for your from the governor for you liberty, nor had he any directions to supply you with money. He thought it possible, nevertheless, that such an application might have arrived; and at his recommendation I addressed a note to Mr. Peel, the under-secretary of state; begging the favour of him to give me any information he might have respecting you. This was on the 8th. in the morning, and I have not received any answer; but well knowing how anxious you will be to receive an answer to your letter hear from me, I do not any longer delay writing
I very much fear It is much to be feared, that the hopes of liberty which have been given you, will may not be realized at this time; and were you even to obtain liberty, it is probable you might not be allowed to go out to the Isle of France; for, in consequence of some creoles of Martinique having been permitted to return to that island, the government, as I understand, has had much trouble in consequence of from an insurrection attempted to be enacted by those same young men; and the Secretary of State will no longer permit any Frenchman to go to the conquered islands. There are now in London, several merchants and inhabitants of Mauritius and Bourbon, applying for permission to go out; but all are refused; Madame Monneron and with her family, has alone obtained that favour, in consequence of powerful interest and being able to prove that she has considerable landed property there. I am sorry to discourage your hopes; but it is better you should know the difficulties, to be that you may not be too severely disappointed
I have not, as yet, been able to find any person to accept a bill of exchange on the Isle of France; but should I be so fortunate, I will not fail to make use of it for your advantage. My own circumstances, I am sorry to say, do not admit of doing it myself; nor have I yet been able to obtain back what I advanced to two of those gentlemen whose liberty I was happy enough to procure
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procure on my first arrival in England. It is to be regretted that your +
In conclusion, should Mr. Peel write me anything favourable, or that I hear of, or see an opportunity of doing, any thing to your advantage, you may be assured of hearing from me; in the mean time if you are desirous of writing to the Mauritius, and will forward your letters to me through the Transport Office, I shall be have occasional opportunities of sending them.
I remain am , dear Sir, with
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
+ father had not taken the opportunity of making you a remittance by M. Lisy de Céré, whom I understand to be returned to this country, but whom I have not seen.
Messieurs Labauve and Dunienville have written me to request I would use my endeavours to obtain your liberty; under the idea, that having been successful in my application for five creoles, my interest was powerful. But having procured liberty for so many
For Mons. Rodineau / directed Capt. Cotgrave R. N. Agent for prisoners of war at Dartmoor - Devon
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Aug. 12. 1812
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter of the 7. instant, and fear you will be disappointed in learning, that M. Th. Pitot wrote me on April 8. last at from the Cape of Good Hope, but speaks only of his own affairs; nor have I received any letter from Madame D'Arifat, or from M. Labauve wherein your name is mentioned. Those are friends whom I much respect, but it would be totally out of my power to obtain the liberty of any prisoner at this time, however strong their recommendations might be; and this for the very reason, that every interest I could make has been exhausted in obtaining the liberation of the five gentlemen whom I had the good fortune to send back to Mauritius last year. I have [I am sorry to say that there are, at this time, several seven or eight others creoles whom I either know personally or am acquainted with their friends families, and whom I have been seeking opportunities to serve for these twelvemonths past, but in vain; It is distressing to me to receive so m and that I am receiving applications from all parts different parts of England and Scotland asking for that assistance and interest, of which I have the whole has been already given. the whole. To these applications. It is distressing to me, to be able to hold out no better prospect to them, than an exchange of prisoners between France and England.
I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
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Captain Joseph Cotton - East India House 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Sq.
Sept. 23. 1812
Dear Sir
I have the pleasure of honour to incloseng you the copy of a paper which the Admiralty is now circulating amongst the commanders of His Majesty's ships, with the annexed the letter. As the subject is equally interesting to the Company, and it may be useful to put your officers on their guard against the probable changes of variation in the steering compass arising from an alteration in the course, I would beg you to lay the paper before the shipping committee that it may [indecipherable] such steps may be taken therein as may be deemed requisite. The polite and liberal conduct of the Company towards me, in the Investigator, will always make me anxious to be of any service
I have the honour to be, with much esteem, dear Sir
your very faithful servant
Mattw. Flinders
Dr. Burney - Academy Gosport
Dear Sir
The Admiralty has, at length, caused an abridgment extract of my report on the magnetism of ships, to be printed with the intention of its being circulated throughout the navy. I received some copies today, and have the pleasure to inclose you one, hoping it will answer the purpose of your new dictionary. I have a letter from my young friend Hollingworth, from off the Scheldt. He is well and likes his situation in the Indefatigable. Wiles is still in the Bedford, on the same station
I remain dear Sir,
Yours very faithfully
Mattw. Flinders
Should your see my good friend captain Portlock, you will oblige me by presenting my friendly remembrances.
[Page 185]
Professor Inman Royal College Portsmouth
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Sq.
London Sept. 23. 1812
My dear Sir
It is now three months since I sent on to the Admiralty a report of the magnetical experiments at Sheerness and Portsmouth; with such explanations and reasonings upon the subject, as the circumstances suggested. This I did drew up by order of the Board, and the report was referred to the consideration of captain Hurd; but from some cause, he did not think proper to hazard an opinion upon it, and it was referred to the President of the Royal Society. He got a member of the Society to examine it, who was very competent to the subject; but as he considered the differences found at the binnacles, to be, alone, of importance to navigation, and took those of the Loire, which were small, to be the fairest standard; the subject did not appear to him to be of the extensive interest in practice which appeared it seemed to be at first sight; although he admitted the discovery to have ingenuity and merits, and the fact of the differences attraction in ships to be substantially proved
It was, in consequence, recommended to the Board, to have the report printed and circulated in the Navy, in order to the obtaining the differences which existed in from many ships; but the report, which occupied 45 pages, was thought to be too long, and perhaps too abstruse to be generally understood; and I was, therefore, desired to make a short statement of the leading facts, with instructions for promoting the inquiry. This is now printed and is to be generally circulated amongst the captains of the navy. I received some copies today, and would have sent you one; but the dislike to put you to the expense of double postage, and the belief that you can obtain one at the admiral's office, deters prevents me
My revision of all the experiments convinced me that there was no general concentration of the magnetism in a ship; but that the effect produced on the compass arose was the combined result of all the different attractions on her board. It appeared however, generally, that there are three centres of attraction, or at least usually three points in a ship towards which the needle tends: One close aft, one near the main mast, and a third somewhat abaft the fore mast. Between these, are two stations, where, the needle being equally drawn forward and aft, remains unchanged. These I call neutral stations, and in my report, have pointed out the manner of finding them, and recommended placing the binnacle in that which lies between the taffrel and mizen mast. I have also recommended the revision of the compasses themselves, and the adoption of a new plan both in supplying the navy with those instruments, and for taking care of them, Some day perhaps
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perhaps, these plans may be adopted, provided the accounts which may be sent to the Admiralty, show the variations differences to be as considerable in most ships as I suppose: Should it be otherwise, the subject will probably remain where it is.
I cannot, in a letter, enter into an explanation of half the matters contained in the report; but should you come to town, and should wish to devote an unoccupied hour in its perusal, I shall communicate it to you with pleasure. Hoping that you, Mrs. Inman, and family, are well, and begging her to accept the assurance of my respect, I remain, my dear Sir
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Will you take the trouble to call me to the friendly recollection of Mr. and Mrs. Park when you see them?
The Right Hon. Sir Joseph Banks Bt. / left at his house for the country
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Sq.
London Oct. 1. 1812
Sir
After some delays the Admiralty has printed a notice upon the magnetism of ships, which is now circulating throughout the Navy, with directions to the captains to make observations and keep them an account of them in the form I have pointed out; and also they are desired to add such remarks of their own as circumstances may suggest. This printing and circulation, for which I am indebted, Sir Joseph, to your friendly assistance; will make the subject known; and cause it to be ascertained whether the differences produced in the direction of the needle by the attraction in ships, be usually so great as I believe it to be, or as Major Rennell thinks, too small to produce very sensible error in ordinary navigation. The importance of the discovery to practice, doubtless depends much upon the result.
I have the honour to inclose a copy of the printed paper; and I have sent one to captain Cotton, for the information of the committee of shipping at the India House. There is nothing else new with us here. I am writing out fair my first volume for the printer, and preparing the second in the rough; and preparing sheets for reconstructing the charts so soon as Mr. Crosley shall furnish me with the recalculated and corrected observations. And I strongly hope, as I sincerely desire, that the workmen of Messrs. Arrowsmith and Bulmer will be set to work before this time twelvemonth
I remain I am, Sir Joseph, with the highest regards,
Sir
your very obliged and faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 187]
A Monsieur Riviere, Bureau de la marine à Paris
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Oct. 2. 1812
Sir
Having been informed by my friend Mr. Philip Desbassayns of the interest you have obligingly taken to were pleased to take in procuring for me the release my from my parole signed in the Isle of France, and also to obtain an account of the vessel taken from me at that place, to together with the return of my journal detained by the captain general DeCaen, I beg to express my acknowledgements for the such essential service; and my hopes, that it may be equally successful in the two latter, as it has been in the first object.
I am occupied in writing the account of my late voyage to Terra Australis, and the journal in question, contains of which I have no copy, contains documents relative to Torres' Strait, which it is interesting to geography and navigation, should be made known; and the witholding of which, can be of no service to general DeCaen. It is in his power to make any extracts from the journal, which he may think proper; but to thus keep possession of it book, which is my private property, is not, I conceive, justifiable appears to me extraordinary: As a public document, I should conceive it would have been delivered into the office of the marine, and if considered as private property, he can have no claim to it.
Allow me to hope, Sir, that the French government will not allow permit the interests of justice and of science will no to be sacrificed to the pertinacity of the general; whose rancour His animosity might surely be satisfied with what he made me so long, and so painfully undergo in the Isle of France
I have the honour to be, with high consideration
Sir
Your obliged and most obedient
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain of the Royal Navy
Au capitaine Bergeret, de la marine Imperiale, à Morlaix
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Oct. 2. 1812
My dear Sir
I received your letter of March 18, which was sent to me by Mr. Favier, for whom, I am sorry to say, my efforts have hitherto been unavailing to procure his permission to go out to the Isle of France; but there is reason to hope that affair will yet be arranged to his advantage
I am, as you have been informed, very much occupied with my J voyage; but it will still be near two years before it will be through the press. By the earliest occasion which shall afterwards present itself, I shall send you a
[Page 188]
Captain Bergeret
you a copy, and I trust you will find therein a due acknowledgment of the essential services and friendly services you rendered me in misfortune. I am sorry to say, that the efforts of our government to obtain the journal which was, ke and is still, kept from me by general DeCaen, have been unavailing; and that this will make a vacuum in my voyage, that which will be regretted by those seamen who visits the parts of which it treats
May I request you to be the vehicle of my remembrances to Messrs. Milius and Baudin, if within your reach. I am expecting to see Mr. Roux again in England; but would recommend him to converse with Mr. Ph. Desbassayns at Paris before he setts off.
I remain, with sincere affe esteem, my dear Sir,
P.S.
Madame Haumont, à Auray, soeur de Your affectionate friend
Mad. D'Arifat desire me faire passer des
lettres pour l'I. de France, par la voie de cartels. Mattw. Flinders
Vous lui rendrais un service, et à moi un plaisir sensible
si vouz pouviez lui aider dans cette circonstance.
The Editor of the Naval Chronicle
London Oct. 7. 1812
(Private)
Sir
I have had the honour to receive your printed letter of queries as to my life and public services; the Rev. J. S. Clarke spoke to me some time since upon that subject, and I did then promise him, that so soon as my present work was completed, I would make out a sketch according to his desire and return it with such the notes, as according to desired. My voyage will not be out of the press, as I expect, before 1814; so that if the newspapers have announced it, it is prematurely the mention made in the newspapers was premature, and without my knowledge. At the proper time, I shall be very glad desirous to have it announced in the N.C.,
I am sorry it is not in my power to give any information upon the charts of Ceylon or of Saldanha Bay. That of the Cape of Good Hope does not appear to me sufficiently accurate for a work such as the N.C.; and I would recommend, it say is published a reduced scale of Laurie and Whittles' chart, which generally I have found to be good; but do not recollect whether how they lay [indecipherable letter] down the Trident or Whittle Rock. The following marks for it were given to me at False Bay
Cape Point ( by compass) SW 1/2 N
Noah's Arch dist. 6. or 6 1/2 miles N.W. by N.
Cape Hanglip SE 3/4 E
Musemberg Houses N. 1/4 W.
It lies four miles from the shore to the westward; and has 12 feet on it, at low water
Upon the chart of Mauritius I am sorry to observe that it is incorrect in every part. The best which chart I have seen, is that published in Grants' history of the island, but it is defective in the interior. The latitude of Port Louis is 20°.10' south and longitude from a series of lunar observations 57°. 45 1/2' east; but these observations not being corrected for the errors which, in 1802 being made in 1804 and 5, when the errors
[Page 189]
of the lunar and solar tables were considerable, it is probable that the longitude is from 10' to 15' too great. In the small chart sent for my examination, where the 18°. 30' is marked, in the scale of latitude, these ought to be 20°.; and the 19° below, should be 20°.30', as I have marked altered them
The insertion of the note upon the magnetism of ships in the next N.C. will make a subject extensively more generally known, which a subject which is interesting to every commander of a ship; and probably be the means of preventing some accidents; as such, I hope it may be acceptable to the readers, and it will be agreeable to me.
I am, Sir, your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea Jamaica
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear friend London Oct. 7. 1812
I have much pleasure in saying, that I have received a very satisfactory letter from Henry, written in a much better manner than before. He appears fully convinced of the folly of his late desire to quit the sea service, and regrets the pain it must have occasioned to you. Mr. Franklin writes me, that he improves much, and he thinks will become a good officer
It truly grieves me to hear the account you give of your situation as a coffee planter. I hope this generally bad state of things will not last long, but The American war will not, I think, last beyond outlive the winter, as the Yankees will probably have enough of fighting by that time, and have occupation in squabbling at home. They appear to me to be on the eve of a separation of interests, if not of a civil war. Bonaparte is, unfortunately, making such rapid strides in the north, that the ports there are not likely to remain open to us long. There seems to be no chance, unless Alexander can hold out until the winter, and then, with the assistance of the Swedes, coop him up in Moscow. This seems to be their plan, if they have any.
I have suffered some packets to sail, without a letter from me, for in fact, my friend, I had nothing new to tell. I have been making some exp In my last, I mentioned some experiments I had been making. My report remained some time without notice; but an abridgment of it is now printed by the Admiralty and circulated in the navy, with orders to officers to make further experiments and send their remarks on the subject. What may be done in the end, I do not know; it will probable depend upon the reports sent in. So far from my having obtained any place or advantage from this business, as you seem to have been told my expensces in executing the orders sent to me have not been paid
[Page 190]
Mr. Wiles
been paid; so that, as yet I am three months labour and study and £18 out of pocket by it; and on the per contra side I seem to have gained a little reputation. This last is very well; but I have need of something more substantial
Now again I am at my voyage; but it does by no means advance according to my wishes. Morning, noon, and night I sit close at th writing and at my charts, and can hardly find time for any thing else. Be not, therefore, surprised or uneasy if I write to you only when I have something to communicate. My friendship for you is of too long standing, and I hope has been too invariable to be doubted upon any light occasion, and I such confidence have I in your sincerity and goodness, th of heart, that I doubt not of its duration so long as we both live continuance through all changes of time and place, so long as we both live
Mrs. Flinders and my little Anne are both well. She thanks you for your inquires, and presents her affectionate compliments to the friend of her husband. Will you present mine to Mrs. Wiles; and ever believe me
most truly yours
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Mr. Aken sent me a watch from you for Henry, whom I have advertised of its arrival. Young Aken was a very fine lad, and I am much greived at his loss, on account of his worthy father: I have not yet seen him.
Madame Haumont à Auray, Morbikan
Londres le 10 Oct. 1812
Madame
Il y a quelque trois mois que je [indecipherable] eu l'honneur d'une petite lettre de vous, datée au mois de Juillet 1811. Le jour meme j'ecrivais à Madame D'Arifat, et votre lettre fut incluse et envoyée a l'Isle de France. J'aurai une grande satisfaction, Madame, à vous être serviable dans votre correspondence avec votre soeur, sachant bien combien vos lettres sont chères à son coeur.
J'ai reçu des nouvelles de l'Isle de France jusqu'en Mars, mais la dernière lettre de mon excellente et respectable amie est du mois de Janvier. Elle, et toute sa famille, se portaient assez bien alors. Je vais lui écrire en deux semaines. Trouvez, Madame, quelque négociant, ou outre personne à Morlaix, qui veut se charger de faire passer vos lettres ici par la voies des cartels. Mettez les sous envelope portant l'adresse suivante
Captain M. Flinders Mr. Standerts Navy Agent
Cliffords Inn Fleet Street, London
[Page 191]
et j'aurai soin de les faire passer par les plus promptes et les meilleures occasions.
Je vous prie, Madame, d'etre assurée du respect et de l'entier dévouément, Ne sachant pas si l'Anglais vous est familier, je me suis hazardé de vous écrire en mauvais Français; et j'espere que ma mauvaise maniere de m'exprimer ne vous empêchera pas d'avoir une par confiance entière dans le respect et le dévouément avec lesquels j'ai l'honneur d'être, Madame
votre très humble et obéissant serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Je ne connais à Morlaix que M. Bergeret, capitaine de vaisseaux; mais peut être serait il en son pouvoir de vous aider à faire passer les lettres. Je lui ai parlé de cela
Mr. Wm. Carr - Louth 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Sq.
Oct. 21. 1812
Dear Sir
So soon as I received your letter of the 15th., I wrote to a friend of mine lately arrived from Jamaica, to know what probability there was of your obtaining a situation there. Yesterday I saw him but am sorry to say, that he describes the planters as being in the greatest distress; and that instead of wanting young men, they are discharging those they have. For Myself I know only one person at Jamaica, a coffee planter; and in a letter I lately received, he described himself to be in great distress almost ruined from his produce being in no so little request, that it will scarce pay the freight to, and duty in England; and all other coffee planters are in the same situation predicament. Added to the great improbability of your a situation obtaining a situation at Jamaica, were you to go, is the unhealthiness of the climate; which from what I can collect, you would not endure, perhaps three months. The gentleman lately arrived lost his son, a fine lad of 16 in less than five weeks after his arrival; though he was healthy before and very regular in his conduct.
Upon all these considerations, I do by all means recommend you to give up the idea of going to the West Indies; and with respect to me purchasing your annuity reversion of the £100; I am sorry to say that I have no money, of which I am not in immediate want; my income being scarcely more than half sufficient to support the expense I am obliged to be at common expenses of living, in London. Had you been regularly bred a surgeon, it might have been in my power to have assisted you in the Navy; but I fear it is not in any other. Should I, however, hear of a situation of any kind that will suit you, be assured I will not lose the opportunity; but my hopes are small, on that head. It appears to me that your best plan would be to seek an employment in a druggist's shop, the business to which you were brought up; I have always understood it to be good business; and if you cannot make that answer, I fear no other will.
[Page 192]
Mr. Carr
I am sorry to see the account my aunt gives of her health. Be so good as to make Mrs. Flinders and my kind love to her, and say that we are well; as is also our little Anne, except the what arises from cutting her teeth. I beg my love also to your sisters, and remain dear Sir,
Yours very faithfully
Mattw. Flinders
To the Editor of the Naval Chronicle
London Nov. 4. 1812
Sir
In the Naval Chronicle for the last month, page 319, under the head Hydrography, is the following an extract from Mr. Horsburgh's Directions for sailing to and from the East Indies; a work which so as my information extends, is justly estimated for its correctness in which, should error be found, the well-earned reputation of the author, makes error doubly pernicious, should error be there found. That part of the extract upon which I prepare to make some observation, is as follows
"If the magnetic north points to the eastward of the true north, the variation of the compass is said to be westerly; and it is called easterly variation when the the magnetic north points to the westward of the true pole of the world. So, according to the denomination in vulgar use, if understood literally, it names the variation of the true north from the magnetic north, and not the angle of aberration of the magnetic meridian from the true meridian, which is intended."
I have not Mr. Horsburgh's work the "Directions" by me, but conclude that that the extract is correctly made; and, after premising that a difference of opinion is not inconsistent with th that respect, which I do certainly entertainly entertain for the author Mr. Horsburgh as a zealous searcher and promulgator of truth what he believes to be true and useful, I beg leave to state have to observe, that the above passage is the reverse of what I believe to be the true appears to me, to be the reverse contains, as I believe, appears to me to contain, an error; not in any particular part, but throughout; and consequently, that I believe, that the denominations of the variation in vulgar use, are correct: If That is, when the magnetic north points to the eastward of the true north, the variation of the compass is said to be, not westerly, as above; but eastward, and that this is right.
In the practice of common allowing the variation upon magnetic courses or bearings, it is allowed admitted that no exists error exists in the common practice; and the question, therefore, turns wholly upon the correctness of the denomination. When the north point of the compass is coincident with the N.N.W. point, true or of the world, there is then two points of west variation A north course by compass, with where there is two points west variation, is N.N.W. true, or by the world. Is, then, The magnetic north, does it then point to the eastward of the true north, as Mr. Horsburgh says; or is it the west does it point westward, as I presume to believe think? Take two compass cards and place them one upon the other. Consider the lower one card to show
[Page 193]
To the Editor of the N.C.
the true points, and the upper one the magnetic, or compass points. Then, since the magnetic north, is, with two points west in this case variation, is identical with the true N.N.W., place the magnetic north the of the upper, or magnetic card, over the N.N.W. of the under, or true card. It will then as I think, be evident, that the magnetic north points to the westward of the true pole of the world, and that the denomination in vulgar use, understood literally, is right. Also If it can be shown to be otherwise, I shall be happy to see the proofs, and to retract correct my opinion.
In another part of the extract from Mr. Horsburgh's work (N.C. page for Oct. page 320) it is mentioned, that captain P. Heywood of H.M.S. Polyphemus, made an experiment at Spithead to ascertain the change in the variation, which might arise from altering altering the direction of the ship's head being altered from the eastward to the westward; "but he could not perceive any aberration of the needle". Whoever knows captain Heywood, will not doubt of the his accuracy, of his experiment; but he placed the compass was not not being placed upon or near or at the the binnacle, it does not solve the question of differences, even for the steering compasses of the Polyphemus. Captain Heywood was present at Spithead in May 1812, when the experiments instituted by order of the admiralty, were made on board the Loire Devastation frigate at Spithead; and I believe it would not now surprise him, any more than it would me, if, in his experimen first observations, the variation had been instead of being greater when the head was westward, had been as was the case in the Investigator, he had found it several degrees less to the west; instead of greater, when the ships head was westward, since the compass was placed in the fore part of the ship, near, or upon the knight heads. I have thought it am induced proper to say thus much upon captain Heywood's experiment, but, from his reputation as a navigator, and from the credit of the work in which it is recorded the experiment is recorded, officers and its more extensive circulation in the N.C., officers should be thence persuaded, th as many are doubtless willing to be, that there is nothing in the alleged differences of variation from altering the direction of the ship's head; and that their zeal in making the observations, directed to by the admiralty, should thus suffer a diminution. This is the more to be apprehended The reputation of captain Heywood, as a navigator; the credit of the work in which the experiment is recorded; and its more extensive circulation in the Naval Chronicle; and the natural tendency in the human mind to believe think, that what we have not observed [indecipherable] does not exist, give sufficient room cause for my apprehension. When officers shall have made the observations fairly and correctly, and have have dra from them drawn a variation, either for, or against the differences magnetism of ships that the most general practice, of placing the magnetic, on the west side of the true, north, in charts, where the variation is west, is right
I am, Sir, your very humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. If agreeable to the editor, and it can be done, he is requested to communicate this letter to Mr. Horsburgh, and to suppress the publication of it, should such be the wish of Mr. H.
[Page 194]
James Horsburgh Esq. Hydrographer - India House
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Nov. 11. 1812
Dear Sir
I had the honour last night to receive your letter of the 10th.; and as my sole object in writing to the Editor of the naval chronicle, was being to prevent the circulation of what appeared to me to be error an error under the sanction of high authority, I shall request him to do no take no further notice of my letter to him, than to give, in his next number, such a short article or note, as will accomplish the object, so far as the N.C. is concerned; and that in doing this, he will be solely guided by your wishes.
I feel obliged by what you have the politeness to say upon the subject of my observations on the magnetism of ships; and shall certainly avail myself of your obliging proposition the opening you have obligingly given, by taking the earliest opportunity of calling at the India House; your well earned reputation, and what my friend Mr. Whidbey has long since told me of your merit, having long since made me desirous of the honour of your acquaintance
I am, dear Sir, with much consideration and regard
your very humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
The Hydrographer of the Naval Chronicle
Captain Flinders presents his compliments to the Editor of Hydrographer of the Naval Chronicle, and has the honour to acknowledge the receipt of his note of the 7th relative to the magnetism of ships extract from Mr. Horsburgh's Directions. He has, also received a letter from Mr. Horsburgh, upon wherein Mr. H. candidly acknowledges avows the error into which he had inadvertently fallen. The object which captain F. had in view, in making observations upon the extract, being solely to prevent the circulation of what appeared to him to be an error, founded upon such high an error, so much the more pernicious from being given on such authority as that of Mr. Horsburgh, he begs of the hydrographer to insert, in the next number of the N.C., such a an article or note on the subject as will answer this purpose; and captain F. wishes this should be done in the form and manner which shall be the mostly agreeable to Mr. Horsburgh
London Nov. 11. 1812
[Page 195]
Mr. Thos. Pitot - merchant - Port Louis - I. of France
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear friend (Mad. Monneron) London Nov. 24. 1812
Your letters and commissions of June 30th. and July 10. 1812 were delivered to me by Mr. Main, surgeon of the Cornwall ten days ago; and a few days soon afterwards, I received from him twenty-four (out of the twenty-five) ingots, sent by him you; but the twenty-fifth having been requir sold by him on his arrival in a sea port. This affair of the ingots being not yet settled I shall speak of it hereafter; and proceed to that affair of the appeal relative to the your three vessels
From your letter of the 30th. I made out a statement of the case and gave put it, with your memorial to the Court at the Cape of G.Hope, into the hands of Messrs. Gostling, admira proctors in the Amiralty Court, Doctor's Commons; the same who obtained the cause of the General Wellesley, for Messrs. Barraud and Roux; and requested they would undertake your cause. This morning, I called to know their decision; and am desired to say to you as follows
They will undertake the cause, and have made known your intention to defend it against the appeal. The papers are arrived from the Court of the C. of G. Hope, but no proceedings therein are yet commenced. They conceive that no other papers will be required on your part, but those which are transmitted from the Cape since it is upon them that the Court will either confirm or reject the first judgment; but should they see a necessity for any they other papers which can only be known in the course of the trial, they will immediately let me know, for your information. It appears by in the documents that you have so far appealed against the sentence at the Cape, as relates to your paying the captors expenses, but no further. This appeal on your part may be prosecuted here, but no other; consequently your idea of suing for damages and your own expenses must be dropped; since no such intention was announced at the Cape. Messrs. Gostlings request that you will remit, or give proper authority to advance, the sum of think it necessary estimate the probable expenses of defending the three vessels, at £700 sterling; to which they conceive the expenses of defending the three vessels will amount and think it necessary that you should remit to that amount. Until that time is done, they will endeavour to delay the proceedings. The expenses The expenses become high, in consequence of the printing of all proceedings; but still it should seem, that they are not equal to those of the Cape.
On returning from Messrs. Gostlings, my friend, I found your packet and letters of July 28th.; and shall go again to Doctor's Commons tomorrow, in prosecution of your commissions. I have not yet heard any thing from Mr. Bailey of the Artrea, relative to the additional fifteen ingots of silver, and fear that he is not arrived in England. The ship has probably come no farther than the Cape, but shall write to him in a few days, should I not hear from him
Nov. 25. I have made known to Messrs. Gostlings the commencement of your remittances. They, however, think it is possible that the appeal, on the part of the captors may not be prosecuted, in which case I expect no expense will be incurred on your part. In this case Should the captors not prosecute, it seems to be the opinion of the proctors, that you had better let your appeal against paying the captors expenses had better be let alone. For should you lose it, a certain and heavy additional expense will be incurred; and should you gain it,
[Page 196]
Mr. Pitot
your own expenses would nearly amount to absorb all the deduction from the captors. This candid advice of the proctors against their own interest confirms the good opinion I had formed of them Until, therefore, you name send further directions, nothing will be done should the captors not prosecute their appeal. If they do prosecute, your intention of defending the cause is made known, and will be duly followed. It is uncertain whether any Although no additional papers will may be required from you; if they be, you will be informed, but in the mean time yet if if there are be any you think absolutely necessary, send them; only remember that the postage of packets is very high.
I now speak of the twenty five ingots; and in the annexed account following statement you will see how they have been disposed of. Mr. Main found himself under the necessity of selling one for his expenses on arriving. I have credited you for the sum, only, (not yet received) which he sold it for only; but should he propose to pay the more, you will be credited with
250,34th of the surplus
363,34
(Abstract of Mr. Pitot's account)
Such copy as you desire of the judgment in the case of the General Wellesley cannot be obtained. It is never given; nor will the proceedings be printed in less than a year. The most that I can obtain, is a copy from the short hand writer's notes, with an affidavit from him, before a magistrate, that it is a true. cop This Messrs. Gostlings have promised to obtain for me, in time for the departure of Madame Monneron; and it will be inclosed (It is inclosed Dec. 1.)
The authority you wish to obtain from the Privy Council for taking your slaves to the C. of Good Hope, cannot be obtained is inconsistent with their functions to give. The Council does not give explanations of the written law; they must be obtained from lawyers. I consulted Sir Jos. Banks, who has undertaken to get me the opinion of the counsellor to the Board of Trade; and should it be favourable to your wishes, as he thinks it will, he will get all the authority attached to it which the nature of the case admits. I fear, however, that this will not be got in time to be sent by Mad. M., though I set it forward immediately on the receipt of your request. Should it not, it shall be sent by the first opporty.
[The following paragraph has been struck out with Xs]
Mons. Dulau has undertaken to fulfil your provide the harp strings, music etc. to the amount of £12; and in the case containing them, some weekly papers from me, and with them will be put with some snuff etc. for Mr. Curtat. and your good I have also added a small canister of mixed snuff for your good uncle whose acceptance of it I request, will be send by, or in the same ship with, Madame Monneron. Mr. Dulau thinks the Morning Chronicles you request will occup take up too much of the money appropriated to that department; and therefore, as I send you weekly papers, none are put in
Nov. 26 The letters you sent me inclosed, I have forwarded to day through the Transport Office, not having, at this time, any good means of private conveyance It is proper you should know, that all letters directed to prisoners in England, are liable to be opened in the offices; and all letters destined for France, if not opened in England, will be in France, where the unless when the opportunity of a private and careful hand is found. They are indeed very severe in opening, but careless of forwarding the letters there. The letter sent by P. Froberville of July 13, was sent privately
[Page 197]
Nov. 28 According to your desire, I have purchased the harp strings, musick and books from Dulau and Co; in fact, he is so much better acquainted with matters of this nature than I am, that I put your letter into his hands, and desired him to fulfil the commission in his best manner. This I believe he has done, except for the Morning Chronicles; which would take up so much of the money destined for that department, that they are omitted. The Weekly Messengers I send will, I hope, supply the deficiency. Dulau's account is inclosed; and you will see how far it may be advisable to give him other commissions. The Journal des Gourmands et des Belles, he will get from Paris as soon as possible; and it appears that his books imported from thence are very nearly doubled in the original price; owing principally to the custom-house duties here. Dec. 1. Madame Monneron informs me of the case of books etc being received by her, and promises that due care shall be taken of it; so that I hope you will receive it safe. The packet of snuff in brown paper is principally for Mr. Curtat; but I added a half pound cannister for your good uncle, which I beg him to accept. It consists of black rappee, masulapatam, and maccuba, the mixture which I prefer of all others
I have not yet received from Sir Joseph Banks, the opinion of the counsellor of the board of Trade, relative to taking slaves with you to the C. of G. Hope; and it cannot, therefore, be sent by this opportunity. The Artrea, it appears is not come to England; and I therefore suppose Mr. Bailey has delivered the ingots at the Cape of Good Hope according to promise
Amongst the letters inclosed, which I will thank you to forward is one from Mr. Henckell to Mr. Bequinet of Flacq. Mr. Henckell is desirous to know something of Mr. B.; and he desires me to say, that he shall, with pleasure, embrace any opportunity that may offer, of being useful to you. It +
I will only add, to this letter, that I am happy to have it in my power to do my friend some service; and that I shall always be so, for every thing which may be within my power and ability
I remain, my dear Thomy,
very sincerely and affectionately
Your friend
Mattw. Flinders
+ strikes me, that should you make any consignment to England, you could not employ a better person than Mr. Henckell. The firm of the house is Messrs. Henckell and Dubuisson 15 Lawrence Pountney Lane, London. They do a good deal of business on commission for Martinique and Guadaloupe, and have correspondence with Paris and Bourdeaux and some other ports of France
[Page 198]
Mr. Charles Desbassayns - Riviere des Pluies, near St. Denis - Isle Bourbon
(Mad. Monneron) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Charles London Nov. 25. 1812
I have, at length, the gratification of receiving a letter from you. It is dated May 18. 1812, and is the first since I quitted the Isle of France. Long before the receipt of this, you will have been informed of your brothers Panon and Philip being in London. The last has no present intention of quitting it, if he be permitted to remain. Philip returns to France in a day or two, should his health permit; for he has had a severe illness, but is now recovering
The account you give me of your worthy partner and of your two children, is very agreeable intelligence. Our excellent friend, Madame D'Arifat, has not let me remain ignorant of what concerns you, and, she well knows, me also. The expenses of a boy's education here, from 8 or 9 years old to 15; and to learn all that you would wish, will probably amount to £60 or 70 a year. Were he afterwards sent to study in a Scotch college, and to attend the lectures at Edinburgh, it will then amount to £100 or perhaps £150. This is only a vague estimation; but before the time comes, I shall get more particular information. I approve of your plan of giving him some profession; and should you have any idea of fixing him in England or even America, I would recommend his bearing the name of Panon, in preference to that of Desbassayns
What may be the fate of your colonies, in the event of a peace, can be only conjectured. Our minister, as well as the E.I. Company, are well aware of the consequences of giving them back to France; yet the circumstances may be such, at the making of peace of peace, as to render this inevitable. The most prudent way will be, to prepare for the worst; and then it will be happy to be disappointed. It is a grievous thing to hear on all hands of the state of the government in your islands; and it is particularly so to me, who am interested in them, and hoped the colonists would be so much more happy under the English than the French dominion. By degrees, however, as the officers of the government will be replaced by others from England, I s trust better times will arise, and produce happiness and prosperity ensue.
What you say of the state of my little fund, the care of which you are so good as to continue, is very satisfactory; and so long as you can obtain 12 or even 10 per cent, I shall not think of withdrawing it, but in case of absolute necessity. The difficulty of communication, however, and of making remittances to England, prevent one from troubling you with any more as yet, until we see what steps are taken with in the renewal of the Company's charter, and the effect it will have upon your islands. I calculate, that in April 1813 the first capital will have doubled itself; and you may, from that time assure it to a solid borrower for two years, at the least. If not inconvenient to you, I should be glad that Mr. Pitot was informed each year of the amount, and the person in whose hands it is, and for how long. I hope, however, that you will write to me, as convenience opportunities offer; and if there is any thing that I can do for
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you here, that it will give me pleasure so long as I remain in a situation to do it. The time upon which I calculate for the publication of my voyage, and the cessation of my present labour, is the middle of 1814; and what I may do after that period is altogether uncertain. Direct to me in future at Mr. Standerts Navy Agent, Clifford's Inn, London; for it is uncert probable I shall not remain many months in this house.
My little daughter Anne, who was born April 1. 1812, is a lively and healthy little lass, and to us, she is very attractive. The health of my wife is generally good, as is my own; and in fact, my friend, I believe there are very few men happier than I am; and were my fortune equal to the supply of my wants, and to afford a moderate portion of the comforts, of life, I would not in there would be none happier
A small remittance sent me by Mr. Pitot, on account of advances made to some French prisoners here, was made done in ingots of silver; which have answered very well. The current price, at this moment, for it varies, of Spanish dollars is 6.61/2 each. The silver sent me brought 6s.10d. an ounce English; and was, therefore, much preferable to bills, even without discount. This may be some guide to you, in case of having remittances to make on account of your brothers; and were gold ingots sent, I believe it would answer still better.
Adieu my worthy friend. Remember me very affectionately to Madame Desbassayns, and include those of Mrs. Flinders to her and yourself; and believe to be most sincerely
My good young friend Aristide, is, I Your friend
understand at Bourbon. I thank him for his Mattw. Flinders
well written letter of Feb. 15. and request you will assure him of my friendship
Mr. Labauve, River Tamarinds - Isle Mauritius
(Mad. Monneron
My dear Labauve Nov. 25. 1812 London
The last letter of your worthy mother, dated in May last, informed me of the accident happened to your amiable partner; but I trust that, before you receive this, you will have repaired it in a proper manner. I have a lively little girl of eight months old, who begins to be very attractive, even to me; to her mother she has always been so. With this comfort, in addition to the good health of my wife and of myself, I am as happy as most men; and was fortune a little more favourable to me, should have little to desire.
From the letters which I wrote to my friend Pitot, it seems he thought I wished the cattle with you to be sold. Such, however, was not my intention; and I feel glad that you agreed with him to wait for other letters. The agreement we made, my friend, is what I wish should be adhered to, so long as it
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Mr. Labauve
long as it does not put you to inconvenience. When it is does, you will dispose of them the cows; being perfectly authorised both by the agreement, and by every approbation I can give. The time is now approaching when I may please myself with the expectation of the number ten being surpassed, and of receiving something from Mr. Pitot for the sale of the eleventh. The first money I receive from the cows shall be in part devoted to sending you a mounted pipe, as a testimony of my friendship and an acknowledgment of your kind care of my interests.
I beg you to present my friendly best respects to your wife. I was given to expect a letter from Andrew, but it is not arrived. Pray remember me very kindly to him and his amiable wife; and recall me to the remembrances of your neighbours the Labutts, Suasses, Herbeqs etc. and believe me,
your very affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
Madame D'Arifat - Plaines Wilhems - Isle Mauritius
No. 9 (By Mad. Monneron)
London Nov. 25. 1812
My very dear Madam
Since my last of July 15th. I have had the satisfaction of receiving three letters from you, dated Jan. 14, May 5. and May 25. 1812; and one from Aristide of Feb. 15 written so as to confirm the favouable hopesopinion I always entertained both of his head and heart. Many thanks, my much esteemed friend, for these kind remembrancers, and these various intelligence you give of the different persons in whose welfare I feel an interest; but more particularly of those of your family. My wife, as well as myself, is sensible of your continued kindness; and when I have been am so long without a letter, she is frequently saying "I wish we had anoth a letter from Madame D'Arifat, to know how those the worthy family is in the I. of France. I feel that I want to hear from her". She sometimes gets the letters in my absence, and in giving them to me keeps yours back till the last, knowing the dessert will be the best part of the repast. She is very well in health, and desires you will be assured of her est and your good family will be assured of her esteem, affection, and gratitude. My little Anne goes on very prosperously; she is fat and fresh; has cut four teeth without suffering, and dr seizes every thing she can catch. She is now eight months old, and supports her own weight in walking, though not yet able to go alone. This child has the most varied and expressive physiognomy, I have ever seen in one so young. Her laugh is the picture of delight, and her cry of despair. She has begun her career of coquetry very young already; she cannot bear strange ladies, but looks with pleasure at strange gentlemen, then hides her face, and afterwards looks again. I now begin to love the child myself, now that it shows signs of intelligence; but till lately did not feel any particular attachment to it.
You are surprised that having before written so much, and made so
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many charts, that my voyage should be so long before it appears! The great cause is, that there were great errors in the astronomical tables, and consequently in my observations by which the longitudes in the voyage were determined. The observations have to be all recalculated; and when that is done, the charts are to be constructed a fresh. And this must all be done, before the writing part can be completed. In saying, therefore, that it will be the middle of 1814 before my labour will terminate, I assign the shortest period possible.
There is yet only one volume of the French voyage published, though the ships arrived in France in 1804. Poor Peron, the author, did not live to finish the second volume. This is the historical part, that of natural history; nothing of the nautical part, either charts or books, has yet appeared. General DeCaen, who is in Spain, has not yet been pleased to give up my journal; though the government has promised several times to send it over. M. Decres seems to fear his influence; and does not, therefore, say much on the subject. My parole has been given up; but no account can be procured of my little Cumberland
Elder, of whom you have frequently inquired, was in good health some months since. He is in the Mediterranean, on board the ship of admiral Hollowch with whom he appears to be a favourite. I am glad to hear that my and so was Elder, that our old friend Morico keeps wears so well.
Panon Desbassayns and his good wife still remain our neighbours; but it is uncertain how long the government will suffer them to live in England. They unfortunately came direct from France; and Philip, who has been much amongst our great people, has caused some suspicions to be entertained of his motives; and these have done no service to Panon. Their affairs are perfectly unconnected; but it is not easy to convince the government of it. Panon proves himself, every day, to be worthy of the high opinion I had at first formed of him, and he possesses my entire esteem. Philip, who is more ambitious of high connexions, I do not know half so well. He has had a severe fit of sickness; but is now recovering, and departs in a few days for Paris.
I have but found an opportunity of writing to Madame Haumont a month ago; offering my services to convey her letters to you; and I trust she will find means of sending them here, from Morlaix. Philip Desbassayns would no doubt do her and me this service; but he has so many affairs, that I fear to rely upon his exactness. I mentioned to Madam H., captain Bergeret, who resides at Morlaix
This letter will be sent by Madame Monneron, who sails with all her family for Maurtius. If Labauve would call upon her, she can give much information of the difficulties which creoles experience in getting out; and perhaps upon many other similar subjects which might be useful to some of your friends. I had the pleasure of dining with her family one day, at Blackheath, and of showing them the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.
Three months ago I received a letter from Mr. Sauvejet, dated at Paris,
August 10. This letter I enclose, thinking it probable you may not have received those addressed to you. The letters which he desires me to forward, never came to hand.
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Madame D'Arifat
to hand; though it is to be hoped they may have been forwarded by sent by the officers of the post. I trust there is no ground for the apprehension you have expressed, of letters by the post being taken away. Those which come to me that way [indecipherable], always arrive first; and were it not for the expense, I should always prefer that mode. In future, let I beg As it is uncertain how long I may remain in this house, I wish all my friends in the I. of France to direct to me at Mr. Standerts, Navy Agent, Clifford's Inn, London, whence I shall be always certain of receiving them.
By this opportunity I write to Labauve, Charles, Messieurs Curtat, and Pitot. From Charles I have at length received a letter dated May 18. 1812, which has given me much satisfaction. For my friend Pitot I have some commissions to execute which will occupy nearly the whole of my time until the sailing of the ship; more especially as I live near three miles from the city. I must therefore conclude with requesting the all and each of the good members of your good family to be assured of my constant esteem and affection. Do not forget Pray to remember me to the good neighbours Chevreau, and Chazal if they be arrived from India. Also to the families Froberville, Dumauhy and Lachaise, and to M. Palerne: I hope the worthy man enjoys his health.
I remain, with the greatest respect and esteem, my dear Madam
Your sincere and obliged friend Mattw. Flinders
I am sorry it has not been in my power to do anything useful either for young Boucherville or Rondineau. I have no influence whatever with the government; and what I did on first arriving, arose entirely from the circumstances of my situation at that time, and has exhausted me in this respect. Even if their liberty could be procured, the government would not allow them to go to Mauritius; unless demanded by the governor.
A P.S. of Dec. 17. Speaking of the box sent by Mr. Rashleigh; of Andre's letter, and of Bonaparte's disasters
Mr. Curtat, advocate, Port Louis - Isle Mauritius
(By Mad. Monneron)
My dear Sir London Nov. 25 1812
Since I have to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from the good Madame Curtat, dated Feb. 23. last, and three from yourself dated Dec. 17. 1811 (duplicate) March 3. 1812 and May 17.; the last by the penny post a fortnight since, the second first by Mr. Parkins. In that of Decr. you ask me news of Mr Erskine and his family, and also of Mr. Cunningham. Mr. Erskine has, I fear, been dead some time; for, in forwarding your letter on my arrival I added a few words of my own, but have received no kind of answer. Of Mr. Cunningham I have not learned any thing, there being no lord of the title you give him, at least so far as I was able to make out the writing. The copy of the documents from the Middle Temple, and the pay master general's office, inclosed in that letter, I will take care of; and should an opportunity present itself of making use of them favourably for you, it will give me much
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me much satisfaction. In the letter of March 3. you mention Mr. Edme Berthelot and I inquired at the Transport Office concerning him. I was at first given to understand, that he had been permitted to go to France in consequence of his age; but afterwards saw reason to fear that such was not the case; but it was not in my power to do any thing in procuring his liberty. The fact is, that I owed the happiness of being able to procure the liberty of Osserre and some others, entirely to the sir peculiar circumstances of my situation on arriving in England. Aware that this influence was accidental, I endeavoured to make the best use of it; and since then, every attempt that I have made in favour of any prisoner, has failed. And the sole service I have been able to render to any inhabitant of Mauritius or Bourbon, since, has been to testify, when applied to, the degree of respectability of their family, and the state of their property in the islands, so far as came within my knowledge
I have not had the pleasure of seeing Major Newall, He sent me your letter by the penny post, without saying where he lived. It gives me great pain to learn from all hands, that the inhabitants of the islands are so much less happy than I had hoped they would be under the British dominion. Mr. Farquhar himself seems to be esteemed; but those under him, it is to be hoped, will be very soon displaced by oth appointments from England. In little more than a year, the charter of the E. I. Company will undergo a modification; by which I think the commerce of your colonies are likely to be gainers; and I think there is great reason to hope that your situation will speedily improve in every respect. The company had, I understand, permitted the exportation of produce to England, provided it is sent in their ships; this, when as the ports of the continent shall be became more open, will be a great advantage, though very little at present.
[indecipherable] discourages the return of French inhabitants to the colonies
Mr. Pitot has transmitted to me the 113 dollars you had the good- paid to him on my account. They were sent in ingots of silver, which have turned out so advantageously, that they cover the £25. 2. 6 advanced to Osserre, with interest thereon, and leave a surplus of between th £3 and £4 sterling. With this, I propose to purchase some snuff fine snuff, and either a box, or a pipe, as seems best to suit have purchased two snuff boxes, and 41/4 lbs of fine snuff of different kinds; and will send them in a box case I am making up for Mr. Pitot
I am glad to hear you have required from Osserre a promise not to serve in ships of war. Should he ever fall in my way I shall be always happy to do him service. Accept, my dear Sir, from Mrs. Flinders and me, the assurance of esteem and regard for your self and the worthy Madame Curtat. I hope one day to have the pleasure of seeing you again, though it will probably be long first: until 1814 I am fixed in London; and what I may do, or where go, when my work is finished, is totally uncertain. I wish you to direct to me at Mr. Standerts, Cliffords Inn London, as at first; it being very [indecipherable] since it is probable I may change my residence soon. With friendly remembrances to Messieurs de Marbois, Carrier, and all those who were pleased to honour me with a share of their esteem, I remain, my dear Sir,
your sincere and affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Mr. Henckell the merchant who advanced Osserre money from his mother before my arrival in England, desires me to say, that he shall always be glad to have an opportunity of doing you any service in his power; and he requests me to ask you, who and what is a M. Bequinot of Flacq, with whom he is in correspondence
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Madame Monneron - Grove House - Blackheath
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Nov. 27. 1812
Madame
D'après ce que Monsieur Raynal m'a dit, je prends la liberté de vous transmettre par the coach, une petite caisse contenant des livres, des cordes de harpe etc. pour mon ami M. Thomy Pitot. La caisse est plus grande que je ne la croyois; ainsi Madame, si elle vous gène aucunement, je vous prie de la donner en charge du capitaine du vaisseau, pour être qui en demandera let frèt à Mons. Pitot. If faut seulement que la caisse soit mis dans un endroit sec.
Les Lettres dont vous avez la bonté de vous en charger, seront remises à Monsieur Favier, dans quelques jours
Je pris [indecipherable] J'ai l'honneur dêtre, Madame
Votre tres respectueux et obligé serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Monsieur Raynal aura la bonté, peut-être, d'accuser reception de la caisse.
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Isle of France
(Madame Monneron) 7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear friend London Dec 1. 1812
The long letter which I have just finished was wholly devoted to your business: this is intended for my own
The account I gave you in former letters of the inefficiency state of my finances to bear the expense of the situation into which I am forced by the nature of my present occupation, is in no what I should now repeat, were I to enter upon the subject. It was not, however, my intention that my agreement with Labauve should terminate by the sale of the cattle, nor yet that the small sum which I have in the hands of Charles Desbassayns should be recalled. These are two sources to which I look for a future increase to my income; and from the accounts which I receive of them, to recall these sums would be to kill the poule d'or. A letter written me by Labauve twelve months since, described the number of the cattle to be nine. Doubtless they amount to ten by this time; and the eleventh etc.a will be to be sold by our agreement. Some time in 1813, I should hope that Labauve will be able to give you something, from the sales; of which one-third belongs to him and two-thirds to me; and after that 1813, I please myself with the idea of receiving annually, a sum which will be of some assistance to me.
I have received a letter from Charles Desbassayns, from which it appears that my money is in good hands, at 12 per cent; and that it will amount to something more than 2,000 dollars in April next. This I shall not recall except in case of strong necessity, and I have told him that he may assure it for two years more.
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He is requested in my letter to send you, annually, an account of the time for which he has let it; the person to whom; and the amount; which particulars I will thank you to let me know, as occasion offers.
I think you will see, that the ingots have turned out so well, that when you have good opportunities of sending them, it is the best a better way of making remittances to England than by bills; though gold in bullion would probably be still more advantageous. The permission given by the E.I. Company to send your produce to their sales may possibly open to you a new mode; and so far as concerns any thing you may have to send from me, fro coming from any quarter, I leave beg you to judge for me of what is best. Should you think of merchandise for me, I wis would wish it to be consigned to Henckell and Dubuisson on account of M. F. writing me a letter of authority which may to be shewn to them. + So much for pecuniary concerns; +but except the advantage be considerable, I should prefer ingots from their greater convenience.
I am truly sorry to hear of the state of public affairs in Mauritius; and the nonsensical stories by which the peace of the colony is disturbed your country men seek to disturb the peace of the colony. You will, by degrees, have a new set of officers and probably a new governor; and I do most sincerely hope, that you will be more happy and prosperous. You will see by the papers, that Bonaparte does not advance very prosperously in the Russian war; and in the peninsula, all his work is to be done over again. It appears also, that the seeds of discontent are germinating in France. Not that I think his power to be in any great danger; but it is likely that his eagle's flight will be a little curbed. In the case of peace, I hardly think it possible that your islands should be given back; both the government and the company are so well aware of their importance. Nevertheless they certainly are of no positive advantage to England; and this I consider to be their greatest misfortune
I am still busily engaged in writing the account of my voyage; but as, from the errors of the astronomical tables, all my charts must be reconstructed, it cannot be published before the middle of 1814. It will form two volumes in quarto, with a large atlas of charts and views. When this work is done, I shall endeavour to obtain some other, and more beneficial, employment; and should I not succeed, I shall retire into Lincolnshire; and try to live upon my little income. Such are my present plans; but God knows what may happen before the middle of 1814.
My wife, and my little Anne who is eight months old, enjoy good health; and for my own part, I never was so well. Could I only see myself possessed of £300 or £400 a year more than I have, no man would be happier than me. But I must bid you adieu; and in so doing I beg you to be assured of my sincere and constant friendship
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Direct to me in future at Mr. Standert's 3 Clifford's Inn, London; for I shall probably not stay much longer in this house
Another P.S. of Dec. 17
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James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Jan 6. 1813
My dear friend
The delay of the packets in arriving has been such, that I received your letter of Oct. 30. 1812 only a fortnight since; and one packet has been taken by the American's with some dollars on board, remittances from the merchants. I hope you may not yourself have suffered any loss there. I congratulate you my friend, and your brother planters on the favourable issue of the Russian campaign. The Baltic remains is open for British manufactures and colonial produce, and is likely so to remain, at least for another year. The effect upon the markets has already been sensible, and must be favourable to you. Some of our newspapers talk as if Bonaparte's part power was drawing to an end, but I would not advise you to speculate upon this; he is too firmly established in France to be easily shaken; and although he has lost all controul over Russia and Sweden, at least for a time, neither he preserves it over Denmark, Prussia, and Germany, will and I fear will continue so to do.
I have not lately heard from Henry, but Mr. Franklin's last letter spea continues to speak favourably of him. I will transcribe what he says in his last letters. "Wiles improves daily, and likes his situation. He desires his respects to you and Mrs. Flinders. He grows remarkably, tall and I believe he is half a head taller than when he joined. His messmates call him the walking Steele's list. He has every part of that most interesting publication work at his finger's ends, and can instantly tell the life, death, birth, and parentage of any naval character. This I think is a favourable sign of his being fond of the sea".
"His finances, at present, stand very well. He has about £3 in hand, and will have to receive next month, or when the ship is paid, about £12 or £15; which will purchase what he may want, and do for the next six months. He is a little careless in his dress, something like myself, but by no means inclined to extravagance"
This extract will give you some notion of Henry's character, and it may be relied on as impartial. At Gosport even, he was noted for his great memory, and information in naval biography It appears, that he will do very well this half year months without his £10; and before June next you will probably give some directions as to its being continued or not. You desire me to say, upon the faith of an old and your friend, whether I am put to inconvenience by the advance made on Henry's account. The state of my finances is this. In consequence of being obliged to live in London for the writing of my voyage, my expenses exceed the sum of my half pay and private income, by £150 and from that to £200 a year; by which sum I am diminishing my little capital annually; and any advances which friendship or necessity calls upon me to make for, necessarily makes the diminution so much greater This I take to be is such an avowal as my friendship and yours demand, and makes you fully capable of appreciating the degree of inconvenience. The line I wish you to pursue is this: Compare the inconvenience to which you might be put by making a remittance with mine; and
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and if yours lie the less, then make the remittance; but if your inconvenience in making the it, will be greater than mine without it, then defer it to a more favourable time. This is what I should say to a brother, and what I should think you would or ought to say to me in a similar case. When the remittance arrives, it will give me as much pleasure on your account as my own, because I shall believe that your inconvenience is become the less of the two.
With respect to Henry's fears about promotion there is but too much justice in them; but if I live it will be in my power, I think, to get him made lieutenant at least; and so long as his conduct is correct, I shall act towards him in that respect as I should to my own son
The fate of my report on the magnetism of ships, which you are desirous to know, is just what I told you in my letter of Oct. 7. The commanders of the navy have not yet sent in any observations, nor do I suppose any will come until the latter end of the next summer; and upon them it will probably depend the steps which the admiralty may take. My expenses, however, have been paid after two applications; but not a farthing beyond what I had paid laid out.
The writing of my voyage still goes on as fast as I can get it, but too slow both for my wishes and my necessities. The latter end of this year, I hope to begin the printing and engraving, and that the work will be out about the middle of 1814. Soon after that, I retire to some cottage in Lincolnshire, if the admiralty do not give me some situation either on shore, or wish another voyage of discovery to be made: I do not think of asking for a ship in the ordinary line of service
My good wife and my little Anne are both in tolerable health. The child prospers as well as we could wish, and is now nine months old. Adieu my old worthy friend; and believe to be, most affectionately and truly yours
Yours
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Upon the before unknown south coast of Terra Australis, you will see Cape Wiles and Liguanea Island. I am going to leave this street. Direct to me at Mr. Standerts' No. 3 Cliffords Inn. London
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Mr. Pitot
can render the carriage of any slave or slaves to them legal, under any circumstances whatever.
The question here was whether slaves might be transported from Barbadoes an English island, to Demarara, a conquered colony; and the officers say "If Demerarara surrendered to His Majesty subsequent to the passing of the passing of the 46th. of Geo. 3., we think that slaves cannot legally be exported from Barbadoes thither; if before, we think that such an exportation would be legal, provided the terms prescribed by the 13th. section were complied with."
-- -- "and it seems to us, that even domestic slaves, if they be not attendant upon the master or upon some of his family, cannot be carried from one British Island to another, without a licence" (meaning of the governor of the colony)
This opinion, you will see, does not come directly to the case in point, as I believe the Cape of Good Hope surrendered before the act was passed. The construction seems favourable to your taking your slaves to the Cape, by fulfilling the terms prescribed in the 13th. section above mentioned, and having the licence of the governor, but it is not decisive. The mode of obtaining the due authority, will be by application through to governor Farquhar, and from him should he, or the custom house, or the admiral, have doubts of the propriety, the governor should apply to the secretary of state for the colonies, either for authority to grant such license, or for an explanation of the 46th. of the King, ch. 46, and how far the prohibition there may be considered to be repealed by the 47th. of the King chap. 36., as to the case in point.
This, my dear friend, is all I am able to get for you, unless I were to put the case particular case to the great law officers personally; the expense of which might be very great: It can, however, be done if your wish it, and the opinion would then be duly signed
Nothing new in your affairs since my last.
Yours very affectionately and truly
Mattw. Flinders
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Mr. F. Favier - Crown Hotel Portsmouth
London Jan. 6. 1812
Monsieur
Votre lettre du 29 dernier m'a fait un plaisir très sensible en m'apprenant la permission que vous avez obtenu la permission de partir. Je n'ai pas répondu de suite, vous croyant déjà sous voile, mais ayant appris qu'il vous faut attendre une autre convoi, je vous écris pour vous faire mes felicitations sur l'heureux événément, et vous prier de vous charger d'une d'une lettre assez conséquenté pour mon ami Thomy Pitot.
Veuillez, Monsieur, ne pas presenter mes voux sincères aux familles Monneron et Coquerel, pour leur heuruse arrivée à l'Isle de France, et ne pas m'oublier aupres des bons Monsieur et Madame Saulnier: Je suis Mons avec estime et considération, MonSieur
Votre très humble et obeissant serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Guillon Desbrulons continued
of application I succeeded in sending five officers back to their country and families; but in so doing, as you will believe, I exhausted every interest I could make at the public boards; and in fact, every attempt I have since made for other prisoners, has altogether failed
I had, therefore, no prospect of being able to do you any service; nevertheless I went to the Transport Office, thinking it possible to obtain, as you were one of amongst the first prisoners, that your name might be put on a list for one of those partial exchanges, which have been made at sea. But it has been nofied that three weeks since to the French government, that those partial exchanges will no longer be tolerated, nor has any officer authority to make them. The cause assigned for this is, that such exchanges destroy great part of the effect of recaptures, and are therefore injurious to the British nation
Thus, Sir, the sole means from which I could entertain any hope of serving you, no longer exist; and I can only join with you in praying that this unhappy war may soon terminate; or at least that a part of the miseries resulting from it may be done away, by an exchange of prisoners. The firmness to suppor bear misfortune I am persuaded you do not want, and I hope that strength will be continued to you to the end, for nothing can trust you will never lose it [indecipherable] trust it will bear you through all: the war cannot last forever and a thousand unforeseen things may arise, any one of which may produce your liberation
I have the honour to be, Sir
with consideration
your very obedient and humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 210]
Mr. Joseph Merven on board the Kron Princen, prison ship - Chatham
London Jan. 14. 1813
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter of the 6th. instant, with an inclosure from Mr. Maingard of Sept. 29. last. I must say Sir, that the request contained in those letters gave me pain; feeling on the one side a strong desire to serve a creole of the I. of France, and especially a friend of Mr. Pitot; and knowing that, on the other, I had exhausted every interest I could make with the Admiralty and Transport Office. Since the time that I was so fortunate as to obtain the release of five creoles, every application that I have made for others, and they are many, has entirely failed. I have been, however, at the Transport Office to inquire into the particular circumstances of your case, in order to ascertain whether there remained any possibility of my being useful; and I am sorry to say, that there is none whatever
I was told, that if the board had given an order for your release, that it was from not knowing, or not recollecting, that you were what is called a parole breaker; and as it was is possible, that in such a multiplicity of names and business such an oversight might be committed, the agents at the different depots had general instructions not to liberate such persons, whose liberty might thus have been inadvertently directed; for no person in that situation can enjoy the benefit of any exchange made at sea. I was moreover informed, that the sea exchanges had been found injurious to the British nation, inasmuch as they cut off all possibility of recapture of the persons agreeing to the exchange; and that in consequence it had been notified to the French government that no future exchanges so made, would be confirmed.
I pressed the circumstances of your having been included in the exchange made at the Isle of France by Mr. Hope. To which it was answered, that had there been any document to prove this, you would have been set at liberty before. The clerk had the politeness to make another examination of the lists, but your name was not found there. Your name and The circumstances of your situation are perfectly well known in the office; I was indeed told, and I relate it as it may perhaps be of service be useful for your guidance, that so many applications had been made concerning you that they were weary of them; for that nothing could be done for you, until some change took place in the present state of things
The advice I would presume to give is, that you do not seek to have any more applications made to the Transport Office for some time, since they can do no service. When you see any material turn in the state of the war conduct of the two government towards prisioners, which may leave an opening for you, it will be well to press all your influence, and I would be happy to add mine, were I not under previous engagement to several other prisoners to do for them the little it met which any fortunate circumstance may put in my power
There are three circumstances which admit you to entertain hope: a peace, and the
[Page 211]
for the war cannot last forever; an exchange of prisoners; and the occurrence of some fortunate event in which you may distinguish yourself so as to excite public notice, and bes These it is admitted, may none of them occur for a long time; but a firm mind finds resources in every thing; and if that mind is be also a religious one, it will never despair. My situation as a prisoner, was for years as hopeless as yours; but, when I least expected it, deliverance came; and such I hope and desire may be your case.
I beg you to be assured of the sincerity with which I am
Sir
your very obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
The Right Honble. Viscount Melville - Admiralty
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
Jan. 18. 1813
My Lord
When I was at Portsmouth making experiments upon the magnetism of ships, by order of the Admiralty, in May last, I was given to understand the probability that captain Gifford might, not improbably, resign the situation post of lieut. governor of the Royal Naval College. Should such be the case, I presume to offer myself for the situation, conceiving that the service in which I have been engaged and the studies which have more particularly occupied my attention, must have had a tendency to qualify me for it. I have not attempted to stir my friends in order to recommend myself obtain in this case, persuaded that your Lordship will appoint such officer as may appear best qualified to fulfil the duties; but as I may not probably not have the honour of being remembered, I beg having attended your Lordships [indecipherable] only once, I beg leave to would refer, for my general character and fitness, to Mr. Professor Inman and the Rt. Hon. Sir Joseph Banks, whom, nevertheless, I have not informed of however, are strangers to this application. Admiral Domett I might also refer to admiral Domett, and to Sir Joseph Yorke, and Mr. Barrow, to whom I believe myself to be in some degree known.
I will not myself presume to say more, than, that should Your Lordship be pleased to confide to me the charge of that praiseworthy institution, that it will be met, on my part, with the zeal and assiduity received as an honour at Your Lordship's hands, and be met with the same zeal and assiduity on my part, which assurs I believe to have been shewn in my late voyage of discovery of which I had the command +
I have the honour to be, my Lord
Your Lordships most obedient
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Post captain
+ Should my want of seniority appear to be an obstacle, I beg leave to observe, that I was deprived of six years it by an act of injustice on the part of the French government, of which naval history does scarcely furnish a parallel. Mr. Yorke did what was in his power to repair it, but six years of post rank remain, I fear, irretrievable
[Page 212]
Mr. de Boucherville, French prisoner - Forton near Portsmouth
7 Mary St. Fitzroy Square
Jan. 25. 1813
Sir
On the receipt of your letter of the 18th. instant, I waited upon governor Farquhar's brother in consequence of your request; and am sorry to inform you that he has received no instructions from his brother concerning you. He took my address, and promised to give me the earliest information, when he should receive any directions; and it will be very agreeable to me to be instrumental in rendering you service.
This morning I have been to the Transport Office, but no directions of any kind have been there received; nor does it appear that any of the numerous persons who are in London and elsewhere, waiting for applications from Governor Farquhar before they can be permitted to go out to the Isle of France, have yet received any information. Whether it is that the governor has not made any applications, or that the government, not chusing to comply with them, does not let them be made know, I cannot tell; but, in either case, so long as those persons who are at liberty, and several of whom have many friends, do not obtain any thing, I cannot advise you to entertain any expectation. When it shall appear that any creole has obtained permission to depart in consequence of Gov. Farquhar's application, I will not shall then have a hope of obtaining some satisfactory information for you
I am sorry to learn that your health suffers. Having been a prisoner myself I can enter into your feelings, and believe them to be acute; but I should hope you would bear your situation as well as the many thousand others of both nations, who are plunged in the same misfortune. +
I request you to be assured, that I shall eagerly embrace the opportunity of communicating any information which may be agreeable to you; and that I remain, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
+ Mr. Lisy de Céré came to the Cape of Good Hope in his way to England; but from some cause with which I am unacquainted, he went from thence to France, in one of the cartel ships; and it does not appear that he has yet come to England.
[Page 213]
John Cooke Esq. Cordangar near Tipperary - Ireland
7 Mary Street Fitz. Sq. London Feb. 4. 1813
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter of the 26th. last, speaking of the change which you conceived might take place in the direction of the needle, from altering the direction of the ship's head expressing a desire to know whether the opinion you had for my experiments are conformable confirm the theory opinion you had formed, that "in sailing East or West, the nearest magnetic pole will appear to lie more ahead of the vessel than the truth, by a quantity which diminishes as the course is lessened". By the les course being lessened I understand the diminution of the angle between the ships course or direction of the head, and the magnetic meridian
Such did, in fact, Sir, appear to be the case on board H.M.S. Investigator which I commanded in 1801, 2 and 3, but only in a the compass at or upon the binnacle. The phenomenon was common to the two hemispheres, and consequently the error in variation, which was in excess in the northern hemisphere with the ship's head at West, was in diminution under the same circumstance, in that of the south. Soon after my arrival in England, the Admiralty directed me to make experiments on board several of H.M. ships at Sheerness and at Portsmouth; and the better to arrive at a correct knowledge of the cause of this difference, the experiments were not confined to compasses at the binnacle, but were made at six different stations as nearly at equal distances betwe amidships from the stem to the stern, as nearly at equal distances, as they could be taken clear of iron work, and with the ships' heads all round the compass [It would be too long to explain all the results; but I extract from my memo report to the Admiralty, the differences which took place at, or near to, East and West, at the six stations; premising that the second stations were near to, and sometimes directly over the binnacles; and that the marks + and - indicate the difference of west variation which arose in changing the direction of the head from East to West
| Abaft the main mast | Before the main mast | |||||
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | |
| Starling 12 guns | -4.21 | +7.29 | -1.53 | +4.44 | -3.28 | |
| Helair 40 | +4.38 | +13.3 | +9.8 | None could be taken | ||
| Raisonable 64] armed en flûte] |
+1.6 (On the |
+0.42 | +2.31 | -3.20 | ||
| Loire 48 | +1.44 | +2.7 | +3.20 | -5.28 | +2.38 | -7.17 |
| Devastation 10 and two mortars |
+2.7 | +4.2 | +6.32 | +1.21 | -1.6 (over the mortars) |
- |
In the last, unstation intermediate between to the 2nd. and 3rd. was taken, where the difference was +7°. 25'.
The differences which took place with the ships heads in other opposite directions, followed were, very nearly, [to those at East and West, [as the sines of the angles between the ships direction of the head and meridian, [were to the sine of eight points, or radius as I had found in the Investigator; and this was common to all each the stations. So that, at them all, the stations the variation
[Page 214]
John Cooke Esq
the variation at all the stations with the head at North and at South, was nearly the same, and a medium between what it was at East and at West.
I have deduced from These experiments point out that there are in most ships two points, and in the Starling three, towards which the iron attracts the north end of the needle in this hemisphere. These I call the fore mast, central and aftermast attractions; and the stations between, where the needle is being equally attracted drawn forward and aft, would remain true, are called neutral stations.
From my previous observations in the Investigator, I had also deduced, besides the law before given, that the differences at East and West diminished towards the magnetic equator, and increased till they were lost; and that they were became of a contrary nature and increased, as I advanced further further into the southern hemisphere: the proportion in the decrease and subsequent increase following the quant decrease of those of the dips of the north, and increase of the south dip of the south ends of the magnetic needle, in a direct proportion
This abridged explanation, Sir, will, I trust, answer the purposes of your inquiry; and I shall be happy if you can make them it subservient to establishing a theory of the general cause of variation which sh which shall not be subject to objections. I have only to add, that in order to obtain an average of the differences at the binnacles of ships, all the commanders in the navy of H.M. ships are directed to make observations and to send reports of them to the Admiralty, in the manner and form printed out by me. I would have inclosed to you one of the printed instructions, but am deterred by the weight of postage; but you may probably obtain it from the office of the admiral commanding at Cork, or from any naval captain in active service
I have the honour to be, Sir
your most obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
M. Felix Roger on board the Kron Princen Chatham
London Feb. 4. 1813
Sir
I received your letter of the 22nd. last, and have not been able to ascertain no any other cause for the inquiries you speak of being made concerning you, than that I asked of Mr. Adams the reason why you had not been permitted to be on parole from your first arrival; and that he, not recollecting the reason, wrote to captain Hutchinson for information.
You were not placed on parole, because your situation of second surgeon in a privateer did not admit it; nor unless I had something particular to urge in your case, more than may be said for many others in the same unfortunate situation, have I any can I reasonably hope of succeeding to get you from the prison ship. Having already made several applications to the Transport Board, I naturally fear to be importunate, and the number of officers who break their parole very much increases my apprehension of a refusal; nevertheless, if you are very anxious,
[Page 215]
very anxious in desiring it, I will venture upon the step though with almost no hope of success; but request you to first then to weigh all the circumstances; particularly that the allowance pension is very small, and that unless you have some additional means, which it is not in my power to offer your situation may become even more disagreeable than at present. When you have considered this, with the very little prospect there is of my application being attended to, and have consulted your friends, then let me know your wish, and I will be guided by it.
I remain, Sir,
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur Felix de Froberville à bord du V. de S. M. Le Pacificateur
à Anvers
7 Mary Street Fitzroy Square
Dear Sir London Feb. 17. 1813
I receiv have received your letter of Jan. 20. last, requesting me to pay 1,200 Francs to the bearer, and inclosing a bill of the exchange for the sum upon your brother Prosper in the Isle of France. So soon as I have an opportunity of writing to the Isle of France, I will mention the circumstance to my friend Mr. Pitot, with whom Prosper resides, and if that sum or any other, be remitted to me on your account, I shall be happy to accep pay it in any manner, or to any person you may direct
I am, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Madame D'Arifat - Wilhem's Plains Isle Mauritius
No. 10 (Forwarded by Mr. Pan. Desbassayns)
London Feb. 20. 1813
My dear Madam
I have just received the inclosed letter from our worthy friend Mr. Sauvejet, but not the letter for you of which he speaks; perhaps I shall be able to send it by another opportunity. In order to accomplish Mr. Sauvejet's wishes, it is necessary that application be made to governor Farquhar in as strong terms as may be, for him to write to the Secretary of State, representing that he has no objection to Mr. - Sauvejet, his wife and daughter, returning to the Is returning to the island under his government. Besides this letter which the governor will himself transmit, a duplicate of it should be obtained procured and transmitted sent to me; and I hope then to be able shall then hope to obtain a permission for him to land in England for the purpose of getting a passage
There is nothing new with me since I wrote last. I begin to see the termination of my writing; but before the book and charts are published, the middle of 1814 will arrive. My wife, I am happy to say, is in good health. My little Anne has five teeth, is fat and healthy, and on the point of running: she is now ten months old. Philip Desbassayns is just come again from Paris, but what his business is I am not informed. Panon and his good wife remain in the lodging near us, which I got for them on their arrival
[Page 216]
Madame D'Arifat
arrival. They remain undisturbed, at present, by the government, and I hope will so continue.
Mr. Sauvejet mentions sometimes of two cows; will you be so good as to give Mr. Pitot an extract of that part of his letter, for I have not time to write any more letters; having this moment received intelligence of the opportunity, and my letter must go immediately. I quit Mary Street at the end of next month; therefore pray direct my letters to Mr. Standert.
My wife unites in affectionate and respectful remembrances to you, my dear Madam, and all your worthy family, with
your faithful and very sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur
S. H. Greig Esq. Madras For Captain W. Owen H. M. ship Cornelia
(Admiralty)
London Feb. 22. 1813
My dear Sir
Your friendly and very acceptable letters of Aug. 1810 and Jan. 1812 were received in May 1811 and Aug. 1812. Will it believed, that after the pleasure those letters gave me, I have not once written to you since I arrived in England? Yet such is the fact; and the cause was, that I fully expected your promotion would bring you home; but such, it seems, is not likely to be the case; and I think you are right, for, according to the present regulations, you would hardly keep your frigate from the mouths of the hungry, and older wolves with which the Admiralty is surrounded
But what you will principally look for, in a letter from me, will be an account of myself and my occupations. You know that Mr. Yorke dated my promotion back to the day he entered the Admiralty; and had there been an effective King, or Regent, on my arrival, to whom I could have presented a petition in Council, it is my opinion that I should have been posted from 1804, the time when I should have arrived in England had not DeCaen prevented it. But before there was a possibility of doing this, the iron cooled; and my proposed petition did not then meet the support necessary to attain success: Fresh men, and fresh services to reward, intervened, and the danger of precedent was brought forward; in fact, I found myself become, from having had some little prominence, a very diminutive figure in the back ground of the naval picture
I then set to work on my voyage, Sir Joseph Banks having obtained, that the Admiralty should pay the expense of the charts and engravings. My charts were soon made ready for the engraver's hand; but it was decided by the Board of Longitude, that all the our astronomical observations should undergo recalculation, with all the corrections that science has hitherto discovered to be necessary; and it soon appeared, that the errors in the lunar and solar tables, from which the distances are given in the ephemeris, were such, that and my longitudes thereby became so materially changed, that the charts (eighteen or twenty,) must be all reconstructed; and this cannot take place, till the recalculations are finished. In the mean time, I have been writing the voyage, leaving blank the latitudes and longitudes; but in describing the differences in the variation and bearings, caused by the attraction of the iron in the Investigator, I saw that a confirmation, from further experiments, of the
[Page 217]
of the system I had formed, was highly to be desired, and I made application to the Admiralty for it to be done.
Their Lordships ordered experiments to be made at Sheerness, Portsmouth, and Plymouth, and I was sent d according to a plan given in my application letter. I was sent down to the two first ports to superintend, and had the pleasure to see my former deductions confirmed, to the for so far as observations in one part of the world could do it. Of these experiments, and the theory deduced, as well from them as and from my former observations, a rather long account was sent to the admiralty; containing a proposal for improving the compasses which which also pointed out the modes of correcting the errors, or of obviating them altogether, and a proposal for improving the compasses in the navy. I was then desired to make a practical abridgment of the account for circulation in the navy, and therein point out the best mode of making further experiments. This was done, the paper was printed, and sent to all the commanders of H. M. ships etc, with an order to make observations as in the manner pointed out, and transmit reports of them to the admiralty, with such remarks on the subject as circumstances might suggest. The captain of the Magnificent, not liking, apparently, to give his opinion on the subject, request to be furnished until he knew mine, wrote to be furnished from my account with the theory I had given; and in consequence, an extra another extract from my Deductions was printed, and is now giving to such as desire it. So stands this matter at present; and by the end of the summer we shall probably have a good many reports, and be able to form an opinion as to what the average error may be at the binnacles in H. M. ships; and with the reports, probably a good many some pleasant reasons assigned to and against account for the errors, and to prove them none exist.
This business kept back my work for some time, but the probable termination of my present labour is now heaving in sight. The rough sketch of the voyage is nearly finished, and one half of it written fair for the press. In April I expect to receive the first portion of the recalculated observations, and to begin upon the charts; and unless any unforeseen impediments arise, the printing and chart engraving will commence by the end of August; and the work be before the dread public in middle of 1814. It will consist of two quarto volumes, with selected views by W. Westall; and an Atlas of charts, with views of ports and headlands; to be published by Nicol and Son, the Kings booksellers.
Your are afraid that I should be too nice in language; but without cause. The first quire, a part of the Historical Introduction, was submitted to the opinion of two or three literary friends; but and as they judged my stile to be tolerably correct, and sufficiently perspicuous to be clearly understood, I took courage, and have not troubled any body since. Thus far, my dear Sir, on my publical occupations. On the other side I have had born to me a lively little girl who is now ten months old. When my work is done, I shall retire, for a time at least, into the country, unless the government should give me any situation which will pay the expense of living elsewhere; for the miserable pittance of half pay is not sufficient to pay for more than one third fourth of the expense of so small and economical family as mine, here in London
Now My, my dear Sir, a word of advice to you upon marriage. If you marry a foreigner, especially a creole, you will entail upon yourself many inconveniences. Of all the creoles returned from the Isle of France, there is not one who does not sigh day and night after their natal spot. The father of a family, arrived not many months in France writes to me "Malheur à l'Européen qui s'entourent des creoles." His wife and daughter talk of nothing, think of nothing but Mauritius
[Page 218]
Capt. W. Owen
and there is not a fruit, even to the miserable guava, which is not preferred to the best fruits of France. But perhaps you are already married; and I have already made an enemy of Miss Foisy; but no, she has too much sense not not to see, that my advice points not to her, but to the impossibility of a creole being happy in Europe. If you be not married, stop, by all, all means, till you arrive here
I have not had the pleasure of making a personal acquaintance with your respectable brother; but we have had some little correspondence, of which he has probably told you. Should you see, or write to our friend Hope, do not fail to remember me to him, and assure him of the continuance of my esteem; and for yourself believe me to be yours very faithfully and affectionately Mattw. Flinders
Lieut. Flinders - Donington near Boston, Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Samuel London Feb. 22. 1813
I just now receive your letter of the 19th., and lose no time in telling you my sentiments upon the three important subjects of which it treats.
I agree with you and our friends, in the propriety of employed a part or the whole of the money remaining from Mr. Large's house in repairing the huts. As to selling the huts, or any other property, I am well aware it cannot be done during my mothers life; and cannot conceive how you should have imagined I had recommended it. The means of increasing our mother's income, of which I did speak, seem to ho but of which you make no mention, were these. The obtaining from Mr. Large the £100 due on his bond; and if Mr. Leatherland did not pay the income tax on his mortgage, the obtaining of that money also, and putting it these sums into the 5 per cents, which are nearly at little more than 88 at this time and are likely to be lower. This would increase my mothers income by the difference of the tax, but no idea can be entertained of selling any property. If Mr. Large's house rent can be raised to £30 per annum, which, in fact, I think it ought, it will give me much pleasure; as will any other mode of increasing my mother's income; in which I shall be happy to give any assistance in my power. The receipts for the expenditure on Mr. Large's house, I wish to remain in my mother's hands; an extract from them, which I will thank you to make, will be all that I wish to see. Should the sums above mentioned be got in, it they should be placed in a bankers hands at Boston, and be received from by an order upon his correspondent here; and they must be put into the funds, in the names of Franklin and Hursthouse, to which that of Walker may be added, for the advantage of receiving the dividends without a power of attorney
With respect to the Board of Longitude, your business has already created so much uneasiness between Sir Joseph and me, that I dare not again mention the subject to him. It is besides now publickly before the Board, and he has ceased to have any connexion with it has an individual, which I conceive to be rather an advantage. I am a little surprised, after the conversations we have had, that you should wish me to put forward an account of expenses from Nov. 1810 to March 1813, when your employment commenced in April 1811 and wholly terminated in December 1812. It would give me great pleasure to see you remunerated in the handsomest manner; but I cannot be instrumental in making representations which I do not think altogether just. The question In fact, the question before the Board, seems to me to be this. £50 have been voted for calculations which it did not, though it ought to
[Page 219]
have authorised. Subsequent work has been done by its direction: what is the value of that work according to a fair estimation? This, as I judged, and not the amount of your expenses, over which they Board had no controul, is the question to be settled on the first Thursday in March. I am not master of the present state of the subject between you and Mr. Pond; but if you think any more is necessary to be said to him before the meeting of the Board, and have changed your intention of being in town, I would recommend, either that you sent a letter for him, to Standerts; or that you write to me the substance of what you wish to say to him. In the latter case, I will make the write to Mr. Pond as by your desire, or go to Greenwich should it be really necessary
Upon the subject of offering your hand to Henrietta Franklin, the question seems to turn upon these two points; the one for the consideration of yourself, the other of your yourself and friends. Is your offer likely to be accepted? I think it should think it desirable for you to have some clear notion on this head, to avoid the possible unpleasantness of a rejection. Has she a sufficient fortune to enable you, with your own income, to keep house comfortably, and to support a family? for with so young a woman, a large family is to be expected. If this last question can be answered affirmatively and certainly, I do not see any objection your friends have to make, if your own happiness will be thereby increased. But, my dear Samuel, do not let yourself be deceived by any romantic schemes. John told me something of a farming project; and I suspect this new plan to have some connexion with it. Now if you marry under that idea idea of turning farmer, without other funds than your own, and without having served an apprenticeship, there is ten to one but you will be ruined. Farmers are thought be simple, honest people but take my word for it they are not less cunning nor more honest than others, in everything the business which they understand; they are simple only where they are ignorant and you will be no match for your neighbours: they are simply only when they are ignorant. If indeed you can find any plan which will enable you to marry and live comfortably independent of the sea service, it would give me very great pleasure, for I know that the navy is neither suited to your taste nor disposition. But observe the old proverb, look, and look well, before you leap.
Mrs. Flinders and little Anne are both well; she joins me in love to you and my sisters, affectionate duty to my mother, and kind remembrances to all our good friends at Donington
Your affectionate brother and sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 220]
John Cooke Esq. Cardangan near Tipperary - Ireland
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London Feb. 26. 1813
Sir
In reply to your letter of the 15th. the three queries contained in your letter of the 15th. I have to answer
1st. That differences in the five vessels in which differences were found at Shurness and Portsmouth, on changing the direction of the head from East to West, were all lying at anchor, and had and of which I gave you a statement, were all lying at anchor, and had the number of iron guns on board expressed against their names; and that the 2nd. stations were at, or near to, the several binnacles.
2nd. I have never not been able to perceived that the rate of sailing in a vessel made any change in the variation. Whether at anchor or under way, sailing fast or slow, the errors seemed to be the same; and to depend upon the iron in the ship, the direction of the head, the situation of the binnacle and the dip of the needle
3rd. I have found errors in very small vessels which had no guns on board; but they necessarily had anchors, and iron work in their construction; besides some iron ballast, muskets and carpenters tools. These errors seem to be as considerable as in a large ship, which I attribute to the iron being collected into a much smaller space round the compass; and by its vicinity, making up for the quantity. I cannot speak from experience, but conceive that in a vessel wholly destitute of iron, there would be no attraction change in the variation from altering the direction of the head; whether the vessel was sailing fast or was moored.
I trust these answers will be satisfactory, and shall be happy if they can aid you in advancing the progress of science; and when you come to London, it give me I shall hope for the explanation you have had the goodness to promise.
I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Felix Roger on board the Kron Princen at Chatham
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
(Duplicate Apr. 22)
Dear Sir London Feb. 28. 1813
Immediately on the receipt of your letter, I lost no time in making application to the commissioners of the Transport Office, alleging your profession as surgeon, the respectability of your friends and your own assurances, as reason for your being permitted to your parole and for believing that your conduct would be that of a man of honour. The difficulties which oppose themselves to admitting a person on parole whose situation does not come
[Page 221]
within the limits prescribed, are such it appears, that the Commissioners have preferring preferred sending you to France, and their answer to my application accordingly is
"that in consideration of the circumstances stated by you, Mr. Felix Roger will be allowed to proceed to France with the first invalids that may be sent home".
I congratulate you, dear Sir, on this unlooked - for decision; and myself in having had been furnished with another opportunity of shewing to my friends and yours in the Isle of France, the sentiment of gratitude I shall ever entertain for their former kindness and attention to me when in a similar state of misfortune to that from which I hope you will be now very speedily liberated
I am dear Sir, with best wishes for your health and happiness, and a recommendation to avoid a repetition of your misfortune
your very faithful and obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur Sauvejet (peut-être No. 9. Boulevards) à Paris
(By Mr. P. L. Desbassayns) No. 3 Clifford's Inn - London
March le 1 Mars 1813
Mon cher Monsieur
J'ai reçu de vous deux lettres; l'une à votre arivée en France, l'autre il y deux semaines; mais aucune de celles pour l'Isle de France Maurice dont vous me parlez n'est venue. La premiere lettre a été envoyé à Madame D'Arifat en defaut de celle à son intention; et une autre occasion s'etant presentée deux jours après que j'ai reçu la dernière, elle a été aussi expédiée à la meme déstination. Pour avancer votre desirs de retourner en cette île, j'ai prié notre éxcellente amie de faire faire une demande à M. Farquhar, pour qu'il écrivisse au Secretaire d'état qu'il n'a point d'objection que vous, Madame Sauvejet, et sa fille revinssiez avec Madame Sauvejet et sa fille à l'île sous son governement; et d'obtenir et m'envoyer un duplicata de sa lettre, pour qu'avec elle je puisse obtenir la permission pour vous et votre famille d'atterrir de venir en Angleterre pour prendre passage
Voilà, mon cher Monsieur, ce qui est fait; et voilà ce qu'il faul faire devotre côté. Demandez à votre gouvernement la permission de vous rendre en Angleterre, ce que vous n 'aurez probablement en moins d'un an; et attendez alors après que vous ayez de mes nouvelles, car si même que l'on vous permettriez même d'aborder ici, vous ne pourriez pas partir avant que le consentement de M. Farquhar fût venu; et les dépenses sont beaucoup plus fortes ici qu'en France
Je ne puis pas compter sur la lettre de M. Farquhar qu'en un an et demie
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M. Sauvejet
et demie à peu-près. Vous aurez à rester en Angleterre trois mois or ou six mois; et le passage vous coutera trois cents guinées pour le moins. Voilà, cependant, le seul moyen pour vous que je prevois dans ce moment; mais peut-être l'état des choses se changera-t-il avant que l'epoque vienne, et vous permettra de passer directement de France, et ce que vous epargnera beaucoup de frais. Au reste M. Desbassayns est en état de vous donner de bons conseils dans cette affaire.
C'est vraiement dommage que Madame Sauvejet et et ma bonne grande amie Noémi ne peuvent pas se contenter en France puisque vous y êtes; mais soupir après son pays natal est une maladie pour laquelle la raison ne fait rien; mais Il me semble cependant, qu'il faut deux ans d'expérience avant de bien savoir si l'on aime un pays ou non; on s'y habitue graduellement; et il est probable que lorsque la permission arrive, les dames seront assez indifférentes pour le au changement. Pensez y bien, consultez vos amis, et sachez que presque tous les habitans de Maurice cherche à la quitter, et tachez d'en savoir la raisoncause.
Je prie Madame Sauvejet et Noémi de penser à moi comme à un ami fidel, et soyez assuré, mon cher Monsieur, de tous les services que peut vous rendre
votre affectionné ami et fidel serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
Mes dernieres lettres de Maurice sont du mois de Juillet 1812. N'oubliez pas mes respects et amitiés à Mons. et Madame Brunet, ainsi qu'à Madame Le Marant. Il m'a fait plaisir de savoir le depart pour France du beau frêre de cette dernière dame
Memorandum for Mons. Ph. Desbassayns
My journal detained by General DeCaen contains the account of my shipwreck; a voyage in an open boat to Port Jackson, and return to Wreck Reef. Also my voyage in the Cumberland through Torres Strait, and from thence to Timor and the Isle of France, besides many other particulars, observations, and transactions. I have no copy of this journal, and many parts of it are very essential to writing the account of my chart voyage, and to constructing the important chart of Torres Strait. I therefore desire, most anxiously, if the original cannot be obtained, to have a literal copy of it, as early as possible; my voyage being to go to the press, and the charts to the engraver, in the month of August 1813.
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 223]
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea Jamaica
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
London March 4. 1813
My dear friend
I wrote you on January 6., in answer to yours of Oct. 30. 1812. I have not received any later letter from you, but I write to say that there is great probability of the Bedford, and your son, making a voyage to your part of the world. The ship has been refitting at Portsmouth, and is ordered to be ready for foreign service on the 5th. (tomorrow). Mr. Franklin thinks they will first go to Cork, and take convoy to Barbadoes; after which, they expect to join the American f squadron under admiral Sir John Warren. The pay which Henry has to receive will suffice him for the outfit; and I have desired Mr. Franklin on their arrival in the West, to put Henry into a way of corresponding with you, that he may obtain permission to draw on Jamaica for such small sums as may be occasionally necessary, not exceeding £20 year.
I am getting on with work as expeditiously as possible; and I told you in my last, hope it will be published in the middle of 1814; and heartily glad shall I be when it is completed, that I may either retire into the country out of this expensive London, or otherwise obtain some situation adequate to my expenses. I told that I [indecipherable]you of my intention to quit Mary Street at the end of this month. I have taken a lodging at No. 45 Upper John Street, Fitzroy Square, for which but as something may possibly prevent me from going there, direct my letters to Mr. Standert
Poor Sir Joseph has had a strong fit of the gout, brought on by a cold; and I am not certain that he is yet out of bed, though he was somewhat better a few days ago. Should any accident happen to him, it would indeed be a heavy loss to the scientific community
Adieu, my dear friend, we are all well here, and I hope the same is with you
Yours sincerely and affectionately
Mattw. Flinders
Lieut S. W. Flinders - Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
7 Mary Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Samuel London Sat. March. 6. 1813
I received your letter on Wednesday morning, the day before the meeting of the Board of Longitude; and forwarded the inclosure to Mr. Pond by the two-penny post, directing it, if he were not at Greenwich, to be sent to him. Yesterday evening I received a note from captain Hurd, with an inclosure for you, and which, according to your desire, I opened, and found as follows
"The Board of Longitude having at their sitting of yesterday, voted the sum of £50, as the balance due to Lieut. Flinders on account of the assistance he afforded
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Lieut. Flinders - Donington
"afforded to Mr. Crossley in the computations relative to the voyage of captain Flinders. The secretary of the Board will be ready to pay the same whenever Lieut. F. can make it convenient to call at the Hydrographical Office".
This morning I have been to captain Hurd, with your letter of authority for receiving the money, and he put into my hands a draft for £50, which Mr. Pond had left with him. This I have just paid to Standert as you desired, getting from him a shilling stamp upon which to give a receipt to captain Hurd
I am sorry the Board has not given you more than £200; but I really think that had you taken the £50 first voted, you would it would have been forgotten left out and you would have had £200 more for the list. Now, however, it is too late; and my opinion is, that any more representations would only render the Board more adverse to you than it now is, and be attended with no good effect whatever. I do not know what your last letter to Mr. Pond contained; but he has preferred having captain Hurd to settle with you, rather than seeing, or writing to you himself
Sir J. Banks has been confined to his bed, the last fortnight, by a violent fit of the gout, brought on by a cold; and has, I believe, been in some danger; but he is said to be getting better, though not yet out of bed. Should you or my mother have occasion to write after the 29th. March, and before hearing from me again, direct to 45 Upper John Street Fitzroy Square, where I have taken a lodging for the 30th. I am happy to hear so favourable an account of my mothers health. Say to her that I shall not forget John's income tax in April, and that Mrs. Flinders and little Anne are both well. The child is on the point of running, and is cutting a double tooth.
We all desire our best love, and remembrances; and I remain, my dear Samuel,
Your affectionate brother and friend
Mattw. Flinders
I have twice seen William Flinders, and found him in tolerable health and spirits, looking clean and comfortable, and not complaining of any personal distress. Mrs. Procter has written to have Charlotte, the eldest girl.
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Port Louis Isle of France
45 Upper John Street Fitzroy Square
(Mr. Moore - Barrossa)
My dear friend April 14. 1813
By this time, I hope you will have received my letters of Nov. 24. Dec. 1. and Jan. 6. last, with the copy of the judgment on the General Wellesley, and and the box of books etc. sent by Madame Monneron and Mr. Favier. You will there learn that your cause of the three vessels at the Cape of Good Hope is put into the hands of Messrs. Gostling, Proctors in the Admiralty Court, Doctors Commons. The captors have prosecuted their appeal, but the proctors will delay proceedings until you write, and can make the necessary remittances, which I told you, upon their authority, would probably amount to £700; and sooner this can be done, the sooner will the cause will be decided
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It appears that the Astrea, by which you sent fifteen ingots of silver to my address, did not come further than the Cape of Good Hope; nor have I heard any thing from Mr. Baily the surgeon, nor of the ingots; so that I have, at present, no money of yours in my hands. Mr. Main, has not yet paid me the ingot which he found himself obliged to sell. He has been in Ireland, and is now in Scotland; and should he not pay it at all, as I have some apprehension, I must debit you with 250,34 ths of the loss;
363,34
the rest I take to myself.
Some months ago, M. Felix Froberville drew from Antwerp upon me for 1200 francs, inclosing a letter of bill of exchange for the amount upon his brother Prosper at Mauritius. I answered him, that if the 1200 francs or any other sum were remitted to me from Mauritius on his account, I would pay at then to his order, and that I would mention the circumstance when writing to you. A few days since, he transmitted me from Antwerp the inclosed letters for his father and brother; the postage of which, amounting to half a guinea, I have placed to your account, to be settled with Prosper: Pray inform him of these circumstances
Before sending this letter, I will call on Mr. Dulau; and if he has received from France the Journal des Gourmands et des Belles, which you desired to have, I will endeavour to get it sent by the same conveyance. The Rev. Mr. Moore, going out as chaplain to your island is the person by whom my neighbour, Mr. Panon Desbassayns, will forward my packet; and from Mr. D's account of his respectability, I should be glad that you received him with civility
My voyage is in a state of progress, and will go to the press, and the charts to the engravers in about six months; and in June 1814, I hope it will be published and my long job completed. My wife, I thank God, enjoys tolerable health, and joins me in kind regards to the friend of her husband: My little girl is also well and is now a year old
I hear of the President frigate having arrived from the Cape, and have some hope of receiving letters from you before this is closed. I send you, as usual, a collection of Weekly Papers, from which you will learn the very important changes which are taking place on the continent. It appears certain, that Bonaparte must abandon his anti-commercial system, and make war upon more the more moderate principles of former days: his relaxations already are great. When you have read the papers I will thank you to communicate them to Madame D'Arifat.
April 19. A letter from Labauve of Dec. 25 gives me the melancholy information of the death of that most excellent friend his mother, for which I am much grieved. I have another letter from him of Oct. and one from M. Boucherville in December, but not one from you, my friend. I suspect that there is a packet for me in some private hand and that it will come when the person reaches town; too late for me to say any thing of it by this opportunity; for I expect my letters to be called for every hour. The President has been eight or ten days in England; and if the bearer of your packet could not bring it himself I wish he had written me of it. The last letter received from you was of July 30 1812
I inclose a packet of gazettes, and a good many letters from Mr. Sauvejet and others, and beg of you to forward them, either by the post or the opportunities which offer. When I get your packet, for I cannot but believe there is one, be assured I shall execute the commissions it may contain, to the best of my power, and write to you by the earliest opportunity afterwards
Your very sincere and affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
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Madame D'Arifat, au Refuge - Plaines de Wilhems - Isle Maurice
No. 11 45 Upper John Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear Madam London April 14. 1813
Since my letters No. 9 of Nov. 25 and No. 10 of Feb. 20. last, I have not received any letters from you; but I heard yesterday of the President frigate being arrived from the Cape, which gives me hopes of acknowledging the receipt of letters from Mauritius at the end of this letters. I have received a packet of letters from Mr. Sauvejet at Paris, addressed to your island, and one of them to you, my dear friend, which the same apparently, which was announced in my last, and I have much pleasure in forwarding it. I have also a letter from Madame Haumont, which is enclosed. The request which she makes to me, of forwarding her letters will have been complied answered affirmatively by my letter mine to her of Oct. 10. 1812; but I fear she will have difficulty in getting them sent here. In a few days I shall write to Auray and point out to her the best means of conveyance. I have made inquiry of what can be done for Mr. Desbrulons, and have written to him; but unless he can obtain a promise from the French government, that an officer of the same rank shall be sent in his place, I fear that his liberty cannot be obtained: he is now making the attempt. The mission of Philip Desbassayns in his last visit to London was to negotiate an exchange of prisoners, and very sorry I am that he did not succeed. There are now in England sixty thousand French prisoners, and half that number of Englishmen in France; and to have restored so many unfortunate men to their families, would have been to him a delightful reflexion; but affairs have lately changed so much against Bonaparte, who is much in want of officers, that our government would not comply with the terms proposed. I have endeavoured to assist several Creoles in obtaining their liberty; and hope to have succeeded for M. Felix Roger, a relation of Madame Lachaise, whom I met once at M. R. Desvaux's; the Transport Board having promised he should be sent to France with the first cartel. Besides him, I have made inquiries or applications for the following persons, but without success
Louis de Chamisso, a friend of Mr. Sornay, on parole at Alvesford
M. Boucherville, in Forton prison, not having kept his parole
Edme Berthelot, on parole at Morton-Hampstead, friend of Mr. Curtat
M. Joseph Ribet, at Do., related to the Périchon family
M. Joseph Merven, in a prison ship, not having kept parole
M. J. Rondineau, Dartmoor prison, of whom you wrote to me
M. Guillon Desbrulons, on parole at Litchfield
M. Desforge Baudouin, late commander of l'Atalante, on parole in Scotland
You will learn, my dear Madam, perhaps with pleasure that the power of Bonaparte on the continent is drawing to a crisis. The Russian arms have been eminently successful; so that in six months after the French were at Moscow, the Russians are in possession, of the capitals of Prussia and Bavaria, of Humburg etc. Prussia, Sweden, the Anseatic towns, and it is now said Denmark and even Austria, are joined to England and Russia, and almost all the north of Germany is in insurrection against Bonaparte, and it is said to extend to Holland and French Flanders. Bonaparte lost at least three hundred thousand men in his Russian expedition; but is raising
[Page 227]
an army of conscripts to replace it, and recalling his veteran troops from Spain to mix with them. His senate is reported to has made representations through Talleyrand of the impolicy of the Russian war; but as yet he perseveres, and in a few days puts himself at the head of his troops, leaving Maria Louisa regent in his absence. It seems not improbable, that he will abandon his system against commerce in order to make peace, of which there is some expectation this summer; probably There is likely to be some bloody battles this summer, and how matters will the world is in suspense as to the issue. At present the English commerce extends over all the Baltic, and the mouths of the German rivers; and the sufferings which have resulted from Bonaparte's anti-commercial system have been so great in Germany, that it is thought he must give it up, even though successful this summer. In Spain the French possess no more ground than they stand upon; and the guerillas extend their excursions nearly to Bayonne. The Spanish war has cost France more than 400,000 men; and instead of achieving the conquest, her affairs there are in a worse state than ever; and she is obliged to recal her troops from thence; so that at the end of the summer, it is thought there will not be a Frenchman out in Spain, except prisoners: in that case my friend DeCaen may perhaps visit England. Such is a general sketch of the present political news; and almost every day, we receive accounts of some German town taken by the Russians and Prussians, or some French corps d'armee defeated, or some new member added to the coalition forming against the ambition of Bonaparte.
April 19. Thus far, my dear Labauve, I had written, when your letter of Dec. 25th. announced to me the melancholy and by me greatly regretted event of you most worthy mother's decease. The shock was to me as if I had lost my own mother, and most sincerely do I sympathise in the affliction of the family; and deep it must be, for the loss of so excellent a parent and member of society. I communicated the event to Mr. and Mrs. Panon Desbassayns who live close bye, and they took a sincere part in our regret. They are acquainted with M. Pailleux, and speak handsomely of him; so that I hope our friend Delphine has a fair prospect of happiness, and I beg to you to present her with my wife's and my best wishes that it may be realized, and the assurances of our friendly regards. The intelligence you communicate concerning the good Sophie, and that of Aristide and Marc is also satisfactory, and I beg you to make them my friendly remembrances very agreeable
I have much obligation to you, my dear Labauve, for the circumstantial letter you wrote me. You judge rightly in believing that whatever concerns your family is interesting to me; and to induce you to continue the correspondence, I must inform you, that the intelligence your letter contained has been written to Madame Haumont and to M. Sauvejet; and that whenever you will give me information, I will take care to distrubute it amongst your friends in France and England, so far as I can; and therefore your writing to me will answer many purposes.
Yesterday I received your letter of Oct. 1812 in favour of M. Geoffroy and would be very happy to comply with your wishes; but you will judge from the first part of this letter that it is out of my power to do any thing for him. I have more persons to serve in the same way, than I can get liberated in five years; so that it is an unproductive trouble and expense to all parties. I have had four or five letters from you concerning young Boucherville, and has many from himself; but after several applications, I can obtain nothing: he broke his parole; and when that is the case, the request even of governor Farquhar will scarcely be listened to. M. Boucherville in his last letter of Dec. 1812, talks of a promise I made about his son, and the mother in another letter though, I never saw her face speaks of the distinguished manner in which I was received at their house; neither of which circumstances are true; but and their son is led into errors by this forgetful manner of speaking. Will you take the trouble to present my respects to the good folks and say that I will do what I can for their son should an opportunity offer but that the situation
(Page 300 for con)
[Page 228]
A Monsieur Laborde, ancien Medecin, à la Rochelle
No. 3 Clifford's Inn London
Dear Sir April 14. 1813
Your letter of Jan. 26. did not reach me until March 25. last. I remember with pleasure your polite attention and endeavour to serve me whilst a prisoner in the Maison Despeaux at Mauritius, and shall be happy to have an opportunity of rendering you service. On the receipt of your letter, I made inquiry relative to the granting licences, for it is a subject with which I am not only unconnected, but of which I was totally ignorant. It appears that the English government has for some time abstained from giving licences to vessels coming from France, nor is it likely to be soon resumed. When they are given, the application for them must be made by a merchant, and the expen fees to obtain them amount in general to about £30; of so that the best way to obtain a license would be for you to get a mercantile friend at Rochelle, or Bourdeaux to write to a merchant here to make the application. Had I been a merchant, it might would have been in my power to have served you in this particular and I should have done it with pleasure, but being only an unemploied officer in the navy, without mercantile knowledge or acquaintance, or interest with the government, I cannot offer my services in this way, although the licences should be again granted some time hereafter.
I am extremely sorry that your situation is so distressing as you describe it to be; and if there lie any thing which you judge an officer unemployed, without interest, and almost [indecipherable] without fortune very little interest or fortune (for such unhappily is my situation), can do for you, I beg you will command me; I am, and that you will believe me to be, with esteem, dear Sir
Your obliged and very humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
A Madame Veuve Haumont à Auray, Morbihan
No. 3 Cliffords Inn - London
April 15. 1813
Madame
J'ai eu il y a trois semaines l'honneur de votre lettre du 10 Septembre dernier, et j'avais déja cherché à faire pour M. Desbrulons ce que vous desiriez ayant appris vos intentions sur ce point; mais ayant epuisé ma protection étant epuisé de ce côté-là, par en obtenant la libération de cinq creoles de Maurice, je craigns bien que mes efforts pour lui ne restent sans effèt.
Pour votre estimable et digne soeur, que vous dirai-je Madame! Je lui avais écrit hier, dans l'intention d'y envelopper votre lettre, et ce matin même je recois une lettre lettre de mon ami Labauve, que me fait craindre que la vôtre lettre et la mienne n'arrivent trop tard. Madame Charles Desbassayns etait à Maurice avec sa belle mère et ses deux enfants, et se reunissait chez Labauve au Tamarin, avec André venu de Flacq, Aristide, Madame D'Arifat, ses deux filles et Marc venus du Refuge, et jamais réunion fut plus heureuse. Cetait fut au mois d'Août dernier. Un vomissement de sang qui a pris la bonne Madame D'Arifat dans la nuit, rappela ses enfans
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autour de'elle, et donna une forte alarme; mais Cela cessa le lendemain, elle reprit connaissance, et à l'exception d'une fiévre, se trouva mieux; prevoyant, cependant, vous le dirai-je Madame, dèja l'approche de sa fin. Le ciel ne voulut être prive plus long temps privé d'une sainte; et le 9 Août cette chere voyait vit quitter la terre le plus estimable des êtres, par Un second vomissement de sang la reprit, et termina ses jours au milieu de ses sept enfans désesperés, et au profond regret de tous ceux qui avaient le bonheur de la connaître Pour vous, Madame, elle fut la plus chère des soeurs, et pour moi une seconde comme une mère; de permettez donc, ma chère Madame que mes larmes se mêlent avec les vôtres à la perte irréparable et que nous éprouvons
La charité de son ame, l'extreme bienveillance de son coeur, ses soins constants à bien remplir tous ses devoirs, son humilité devant son Dieu, comme l'ontavaient obtenu le respect et l'admiration des hommes, et la places lui assurent une bonheur éternelle, et c'est là la meilleure consolation qui nous restent
La lettre de Labauve est du 25 Decembre dernier. A cet époque Mesdesmoiselles Delphine et Sophie étaient avec Marc à Bourbon, chez leur soeur. Mlle. Delphine devait se marier le 20 de ce même mois avec M. Pailleux, un ami de Charles, Parisien, homme de bien, assez aisé sans être riche, et agé de 38 ans. Ce mariage était déja arrangé avant la mort de la pauvre mère, et celui de Mlle. Sophie était presque dans le même état avec M. Charreton, un brave jeune homme que je connaissais, ami de Labauve; mais ce dernier mariage attend que M. Charreton a rec obtenu la succession de son oncle qui est mort il y a pluesieurs années. Aristide est bien placé dans le secretariat du gouvernement à Bourbon, à 60 piastres par mois. Marc prend une bonne tournure et Labauve comptait le placer dans un bureau de la ville à son retour de Bourbon. Les affaires de Labauve, dit-il sont assez bonnes, sa fortune s'augmente doucement, et il jouit d'une grande aisance dans son habitation. Andre Sa femme etait enceinte de six mois en Decembre. André est toujours à Flacq, et arranges les affaires de la famille Ravel fort bien; il a deux filles très belles
Voilà, ma chère dame, des nouvelles qui, après le premier moment, doivent vous porter soulagement au coeur; et je fais de prières que Dieu vous donne cette resignation d'ame qui est due à ses dorets inévitables decrèts. Vos lettres pour Maurice seront exactement expediées; mais jusqu'à present aucune n'est venue. Le meilleur moyen de les envoyer ici est, je crois par des négocians des ports de mer qui commercent par licence avec ce pays-cy. M. Sauvejet peut vous fournir quelques occasions
Adieu ma chere dame; croyez moi en tout où je puis vous servir, votre très dévoué et respectueux serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 230]
Monsieur Sauvejet No. 9 aux Boulevards du Temple à Paris
No. 3 Cliffords Inn - London
Mon cher Monsieur ce 15 Avril 1813
Vous avez sans doute probablement appris la malheureuse nouvelle venue de Maurice; que notre chère amie la plus estimable des êtres n'est plus Aujourd'hui j recois une lettre de Labauve, datée le 25 Decembre, qui m'ecrit à la place de sa pauvre mère. Depuis le 25 9 Août elle nous regarde du haut du ciel, étant emportée ce jour là par un vomissement de sang, du milieu de ses sept enfans que se trouvaient réuni au Tamarin, comme par miracle. C'est une perte pour tous ceux qui la connaissaient, mais pour sa famille, pour nous qui ont éprouvé la grande bonté de son âme, c'est fait pour déchirer le coeur. Jamais, mon cher M. Sauvejet, nous ne trouverons une seconde Madame D'Arifat. Elle fut la plus parfaite modele de tout ce qui est bon et estimable parmi les hommes, et le ciel n'a plus voulu être sans elle. Cherchez à adoucir la connaissance de ce malheureuxment événément a Madame Sauvejet et à Noémi, si c'est ici que vous l'apprenez. Assurez les combien je prends part à la douleur de la famille, et que mes larmes se mêlent avec les joignent aux leurs.
Mlle. Delphine était à Bourbon en Decembre et devait se marier le 20 Dec avec un M. Pailleux, un ami de Charles Desbassayns, et estimé de tout la famille. Le mariage de Mlle. Sophie etait presque arrangé avec M. Charreton que vous avez connu. Les affaires de Labauve allaient bien, et sa femme était enceinte de six mois. André est toujours heureux dans son ménage, et arrange ses affaires fort bien. Aristide a 60 piastres par mois dans le secretariat du gouvernement à Bourbon; et Marc allait être placé dans un bureau à la ville. Mlle. Dumouhy s'est mariée avec Fred. Pitot, et Mlle. Sornay avec M. Gustave Emmerez, fixé à la ville. M. Froberville a quitté son habitation et pris une dans le bas du quartier. Sa famille, celle Lachaise et vos autres parens se portaient bien.
J'ai recu il y quelques jours vos lettre fe votre lettre du 18 Nov. dernier avec un pacquet pour Maurice, qui sera expédiée par une main sure en quelques jours. J'ai aussi reçu un pacquet de Felix Froberville avec la lettre du 24 de Mars dernier; et comme je ne puis pas lui écrire dans ce moment, je vous prie de lui donner les nouvelles ci-dessus, et de dire que ses lettres partiront de suite, et qui je lui servirai dans sa correspondence avec plaisir. Seulement il sera bon de lui observer, d'envoyer ses pacquets tant qu'il est possible par des mains particulières; car les capitaines des vaisseaux de ligne ne mettent aucunes bornes à leur demande que la volonté, et je crains que son frère trouve la porte de France en Angleterre, sans compter le reste, un peu forte à une demi-guinée.
J'ai ecrit à Madame Haumont à Auray, aujourd'hui les details de la mort de sa soeur. Je crois qu'elle trouve de la peine à faire passer ses lettres ici pour Maurice; peut-être seriez vous à même de lui trouver des occasions; et une fois ici il n'y a plus de difficulte'
Je vous ai ecrit le l Mars par M. Desbassayns en reponse de celle qu'il m'avait portée; et le 20 Fevrier j'avais écrit à Maurice pour que
[Page 231]
M. Sauvejet
la demande soit f necessaire à votre retour dans cette île, soit fait à M. Farquhar le gouverneur. Ma lettre entrera dans les mains de Labauve, qui par ses connaissances avec et les honnêttetés faites aux grands, est bien en état de faire la demande avec succès. Aussitôt l'arrivée de la permission du gouverneur, je ferai les demarches pour que vous puissiez aborder en Angleterre; et en attendant, vous aurez pris des précautions pour avoir la permission de votre gouvernement. Labauve dit dans sa lettres "les colons sont plus heureux qu'ils n'ont été depuis bien des années, cependant, les terres sont sans valeur",
Adieu, mon cher Monsieur. Agréez, avec Madame et Noémi l'assurance de mon sincère attachement.
Mattw. Flinders
M. Labauve continued from p. 226
the situation he is in, and my interest having being exhausted by what I have already done for prisoners, leave me very little hope of being able to serve him
The statement you give of my cattle is generally satisfactory, equal to my expectations notwithstanding the losses; and I still hope they will turn out well, and that in another year M. Pitot will be able to make a commencement of remittance on their account: I wrote you about these beasts not very long ago, and have nothing to add but that I wish our agreement to stand so long as it is not inconvenient to you; being well persuaded of your friendly care
My voyage goes on in the way I wrote to your good mother, and will be out, as I hope, next year. Mrs. Flinders keeps her health; and my little Anne is doing very well. She is a year old, has got seven or eight teeth, and is just able to walk alone. By this time I hope Madame Labauve is safely delivered, and has crowned your wishes with a fine healthy boy: I shall be anxious to hear that this interesting event has passed safely; and request her to accept the assurance of my friendly respects. About this time next year, I shall probably be able to tell you my course of proceeding after the voyage is written. It will either be to go out again upon some similar expedition, in which case I may have the gratification of seeing my friends in the I. of France; or it will be an appointment to some situation on shore, in England or elsewhere; or, if neither, to retire into the country and live economically upon my little fortune. In conclusion, I beg you, my friend, to recollect I look to you to supply the loss of my correspondent, our late most dear and valuedble friend. I do not like, nor have I time t You and Thomy Pitot, are the friends whose letters I hope never to be long without receiving; and with respect to the other kind persons who recollect me in the Mauritius, I must beg you two to be the interpreter of my sentiments toward them. Amongst these I enumerate more especially all your family, and Mr. and Mrs. Curtat; and afterwards Chazal and Chevreau, and and our Vacouas and Tamarin neighbours: Remember me kindly to them all, and give my compliments to the Majors Mill Leitch and Millar; to the former of whom I forward letters from his mother. Believe me, my dear Labauve, very affectionately
Your sincere friend
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I have inquired into the circumstances of M. Geffroy's situation, and find he was taken in the Belle Poule; was several years on parole at a town called Thame; escaped from thence in March 1811, was retaken and put on board a prison ship, where he still remains, and where he must remain until an exchange of prisoners. No application for one who has broken his parole can be successful.
[Page 232]
Mr. Désiré Geffroy on board the Glory prison ship at Chatham
45 Upper John St. Fitzroy Square
Sir London April 20. 1813
I have received the inclosed letter in one from my friend M. Labauve D'Arifat of Mauritius, and a request from him to do what is in my power to obtain your liberty. That you may not be led to conceive any hopes which might be disappointed, and the misery of your situation become thus increased, it is proper to inform you, that all the interest I had with the Admiralty and Transport Board was exhausted by obtaining the liberty of five young men creoles of Mauritius, about two years ago. That I have still a list of eight other persons, some in prison ships, others on parole, whom I ought wish to serve if it were in my power, but cannot do have it not in my power; and it could therefore lead only to disappointment were you to form any hopes from me.
Without the approbation of the governor of Mauritius you cannot be permitted to return to that island; and if your friends have not already done it, they should make an application to him, to write to the government in your favour. This is probably the sole step which can obtain your liberty, unless a general exchange of prisoners between France and England should happily take place; and unfortunately this measure, which would relieve so many thousand aching hearts, has no present prospect of being accomplished
I am, Sir, with much regret at my inability to serve you,
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mons. Joseph Merven, on board the Kron Princen, prison ship at Chatham
London April 29. 1813
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter of the 27th. instant, as I had also the preceding one of March 19. The transcript you gave of colonel Monistrols' letter shows that Mr. Hope had made a promise to the colonel to make use of his private influence to obtain your liberty from the Transport Board as a matter of favour, but not that he made any exchange for you; in fact, Mr. Hope being agent for the Indian government only, had no authority beyond the limits of that government, and could not, therefore, make an exchange for a prisoner in England. His private influence would, however, have been equally serviceable, had you not so unfortunately quitted your place of parole.
I ought to apologise for not ha answering before your letter of the 19th. March; but I had already said, and I must repeat it here, that there is no possibility of my being useful to you; and that I am under previous engagements to several other prisoners to do for them the little which any fortunate circumstance may put in my power. I am not surprised that, in your very unfortunate situation, you should catch at every person or thing which can afford you the least hope of relief, but I very much fear that your late application to Mr. Van [indecipherable], even supposing him to have every desire to serve you, will be no more successful than the many others you have made; and indeed I think th apprehend that those many various applications to the Transport Office have done you more harm
[Page 233]
than good Under This being the case, you will see that the various steps you wish me to take could be of no service to you, and would, therefore, be a great loss of time to me; and I have so little time to spare that I do not go from home but upon pressing business, and where I can hope to do some good
Your situation is a [indecipherable] much to be deplored I very much deplore your situation as father of a family, and I am sorry it is not in my power to give offer you other consolation than was contained in my letter of Jan. 14th. last. I am, Sir
Your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Will May I beg of you to say to M. Felix Roger, that the Transport a promise was made me at the Transport Office, that he should be sent by the cartel now preparing; and that I wish his letters to come through the hands of Mr. Adams
Mrs. Flinders Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
45 Upper John Street - Fitzroy Square
My dear mother London April 30.1813
I duly received your letter of March 29; but as there was nothing very pressing to answer, I delayed it until I should see Samuel and pay him the £3 for John's income tax. Last night he called, and I paid him the money; so that if you have placed it to his account, you may now cross it out, and put it to John's credit.
I have spoken to Mr. Walker about receiving the dividend on the £180, which, with his usual goodness, he consents to do, and to pay it you every six months without any charge, through the medium of Mrs. Shilcock. The sooner you can send up pay the money into a bankers hands at Boston, and I receive it here and put it into the funds, the better; for as stocks are now, you would get £9 a year for it, clear of income tax; but not so much if they should rise. As this is money belonging to the general property, it must be vested in the names of Hursthouse and Franklin, the Trustees, and it will be proper that they should be informed of the circumstance. Mr. Walker's name will be joined to theirs, to enable him to receive the dividends without the expense of a power of attorney
I approve of your raising Mr. Large's rent to £30; and conceive that he cannot think much, after £100 nearly has been laid out on the house, to pay £2.10 more, which is only half the interest of the money. I almost wish you had got Mr. Leatherland's money also, fearing that you may have some trouble or unpleasantness about it. So long as every thing goes on pleasantly, it may be very well to let it stay; but immediately you find it otherwise, I recommend you to cut the matter short, by ordering it to be paid in
We are all very well here. Little Anne now runs across the room alone, has cut some double teeth, and makes attempts to talk. Mrs. Flinders enjoys
[Page 234]
Mrs. Flinders
enjoys better health on the whole, than formerly, being less frequently troubled with her head-aches; and she joins in kind remembrances to Mr. and Mrs. Dodd and Henrietta, and affectionate respects to you, with, my dear mother
your sincere friend and son-in-law
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thompson Upper John St. May 10. 1813
Sir
Within these last several days, there has been a number of persons calling here for money, and, amongst others, a collector of the King's taxes, which has a good deal alarmed me lest a seizure should take place in the house, and my prop books, trunks etc. be taken. I do by no means wish to many an inquisition into the circumstances of any person, but I must beg of you, Sir, as a man of honour, if you foresee any probability of the event I fear, to release me from my engagement by an early answer, that I may seek another lodging; and you may be satisfied that your secret will be preserved
I am, Sir,
your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Thos. Pitot - merchant - Port Louis Isle Mauritius
45 Upper John St. Fitzroy Square
(By Mr. Bonner) May 17. 1813
My dear friend
Since my letter of last month was sent sent, I have received three letters from you. 1st. Sept. 24. inclosing 3c. of Aug. 16. 2nd. Nov. 27. duplicate, inclosing the second of exchange for £350. 3rd. Jan. 12. 1813 inclosing first of exchange of another bill for £350. These two bills I have left delivered at the Treasury for acceptance. I have seen nothing of any of the persons you have mentioned as bringing ingots or dollars to me, except Mr. Main, who has not yet paid me for one of those he brought. The Barrosa and convoy are not yet sailed from Portsmouth, and I therefore hope to get these few lines sent to you by the her; the intention of them is to acknowledge the receipt of the bills; and to say, that so soon as the bills are paid, and the papers relative to the Eclair are received, I shall put the proctors in motion; and that your commission for books shall be executed by the first opportunity
All here goes on as usual in this house
Your affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 235]
Mr. Thompson Upper John St. May 19. 1803
Sir
Not having received any answer to my letter of the 19th, and being aware that one might have been given immediately, I must consider your silence as an acknowledgement that my fears apprehensions are not without sufficient foundation. Your name, and some other circumstances, are known to more than one person in this neighbourhood; and bailiffs have been in the house within these two days in search of you; and I apprehend you must feel, that it is for your advantage as well as mine that our engagement should be annulled. My wish is to give you neither pain nor trouble; but a due regard to myself obliges me to write thus; and I trust you are satisfied, that in what you may write to me in answer, you are addressing yourself to a man who will not betray your confidence
I am, Sir
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mons. de Boucherville - Forton prison near Portsmouth
45 Upper John St. Fitzroy Square
London May 20. 1813
Sir
I yesterday saw a list of prisoners belonging to the Isle Mauritius On going to at the Transport Office, yesterday with a letter for admiral Conte Linois, I saw a list of prisoners belonging to Mauritius, whose liberty had been demanded by governor Farquhar; and whom are and which the Board had received directions to comply with. It gave me great satisfaction to see your name there, as also those of Joseph Ribet, Désiré Geffroy, and M. Rondineau. I immediately went to governor Farquhar's brother, hoping that he would have received directions to supply you with money; but am sorry to say he has not. On returning home I found your letter of the 17th., by which I found it appeared you were acquainted with the happy intelligence; and very sincerely do I congratulate you upon it. I can add, that you need entertain no doubt whatever of the governor's request being complied with, though it may possibly be some weeks before the execution may take place
I will endeavour to learn at the Secretary Lord Bathurst's office whether the agent for the colony may not have received directions to supply you with some money; and so soon as I have anything favourable to announce, either on that subject, or on the time and manner of your returning to your friends, it will be a gratification to me, to communicate it to you
I remain, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 236]
Rt. Hon. Sir Joseph Banks Bt. 45 Upper John St. Fitzroy Sq.
May 20. 1813
Sir
Your much lamented illness depriving me of the advantage of personally consulting you, I beg to request in this manners by letter, the favour of your opinion upon the following subject I have just received of alluded to in the inclosed from Mr. Nicol; but since letter. From your have been pleased to take so essential a part in the work alluded to, I do not wish to give any answer without think it correct to take in me to authorise the step specified without your knowledge and approbation; and therefore therefore beg to be favoured with your opinion sentiments, in any manner which may be convenient, before I return any answer.
I have the honour to be, with anxious wishes for your speedy restoration, Sir
your most sincere faithful and obliged servant
Mattw. Flinders
Rev. J. S. Clarke, chaplain to the Librarian to His Royal Highness - Carlton House
45 Upper John St. May 21. 1813
Dear Sir
My voyage for completing the discovery of Terra Australis being now in a state of forwardness, will be immediately announced for publication next spring; and I herewith send you four of the a specimen four out of the eight or ten views by W. Westalls views which it will contain: You will remark the accuracy with which he has preserved the characterestic vegetation of that extraordinary country. Should you conceive it might be agreeable to His Royal Highness the Prince to be informed of the nature of my voyage, you will oblige me by taking an opportunity of communicating making it known; and lest you may not the circumstances of it may have escaped your memory, I will here recapitulate the leading heads
Terra Australis comprehends New Holland and New South Wales, and in extent, is equal to all Europe. To dire complete the discovery and examination of its coasts was the great object of the voyage; and in Dec. 1801 I commenced the the task at Cape Leeuwin, in the Investigator. The whole of the South Coast was explored in that and the following year; and in the before unknown part, I discovered Spencer's Gulph, reaching 180 miles into the country; the Gulph of St. Vincent of 90 miles; Kangaroo Island, thirty leagues long, besides several por Port Lincoln and an infinity of small islands
After passing through, and further exploring Bass Strait, I followed the steps of captain Cook along the East Coast as far as Cape Palmerston, and completed what that great navigator had not time to examine. The great barrier reefs, which appear to extend 900 miles along this coast, from Sandy Cape to Torres Strait, caused me much trouble and danger; but having found an passage opening through them, I passed, and partly explored, Torres Strait, separating Terra Australis from New Guinea; and after stopping at the Prince of Wales' Island, entered the Gulph of Carpentaria
The examination of the coasts, and the various bays and islands in this extensive Gulph occupied me till March 1803; when the Investigator being in a state of decay, I returned to Port Jackson, by making the circuit of Terra Australis. The I ship was there condemned, and I embarked with my officers and people
[Page 237]
for England, as passengers in the Porpoise; but a shipwreck in the night, upon a coral reef 200 miles from the land, put a stop to the voyage our proceeding. The people were saved upon a small sand bank; and I made a voyage of 750 miles in an open boat, back to Port Jackson; and returned to their assistance with a ship and two schooners, in Oct. 1803
My officers and people went in the ship to China, and were in the fleet which was attacked by admiral Linois, whom they contributed materially to repulse. I took one of the smallest schooners, of the size of a Gravesend boat, and leaving Wreck Reef went through Torres Strait for the Cape of Good Hope; but the leakiness of the vessel obliging me to stop at Mauritius, I was there made a prisoner; and kept during six years and a half, notwithstanding the assistance and protection which were promised by my passport from the first consul of France. The charts and journals of the voyage were seized; but six months before the capture of the island, the greater part were returned and I was suffered to depart. In Oct. 1810 I arrived in England and was promoted to the rank of post captain; but the whole of the my rank of post captain could not be granted for the time of my unjust detention in Mauritius could not be granted without an order from the King in Council; and my petition to that effect did not meet the necessary support at the Admiralty, and was, therefore, not presented
Such, my dear Sir, are the leading subjects of the work about to be published. It will contain be prefaced with an historical account of all the discoveries made in Terra Australis previously to the Investigator, and followed by a botanical appendix by from the naturalist of the expedition. The atlas will contain a regular series of charts of the coast on a large scale, from Cape Leeuwin, round by the east and north, to Arnhem's Land; and plans of all the harbours, views of head lands etc.; and I please myself with the hope, that this voyage may be thought worthy of being classed with those already published under the patronage of His Majesty.
Believe me, my dear Sir, with much regard,
your faithful and obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica - June 2. Upper Fitz. St.
Acknowledge receipt of bill for £1800, which is payable on Aug. 28. Shall be glad to see his brother, and ask questions. Sentiments of mankind, and happiness of a moderate competency
[Page 238]
Mr. Thos. Pitot - merchant - Port Louis - Isle Mauritius
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
London June 7.1813
My dear friend
I wrote you on the 17 May to acknowledge the reception of two bills on the treasury for £350 each. These bills have been accepted, and I shall get the money on the 18th. next, and I have received information from Mr. Dick that he has brought me 300 dollars, which he will send so soon as he receives his trunks from the custom house, and I have also received the packet of papers brought by Major Barry, relative to the Eclair and the Industrie, this packet has been which was immediately put into the hands of Messrs. Gostling, your proctors; whom, according to your desire, I have told to make propose to the proctors of the appellants that the decision upon l'Industrie should be taken for that of all the three vessels should follow that of l'Industrie. This they either have already done, or will do, if, after examining the papers, the case of l'Eclair should not present any circumstances more favourable. In this c Should the appellants accept the proposition, I do not expect that your expenses in the Admiralty Court here will exceed £200 or £250; but should you have also to pay those of the appellants the sum will probably be doubled; even in that case, the £700 and 300 dollars, (deducting £200 for Messrs. Dubordieu), should suffice, and pay, moreover, the expense of your commissions. ab
You will observe, that I have heard nothing, either from Mr. Bailey of the Astrea, or from Messrs. Embden and Watts, relative to the dollars they were to remit. Mr. Ellis wrote me, that the pieces of gold committed to his care had been stolen from him at the C. of Good Hope; that he had written to you from thence, and directed repayment of the money to be made you at Mauritius. Such is the state of your money in my hands; At this moment, you before receiving the dollars or money for the bills, you are debtor £4.7.9, the surplus above the last account sent having arisen from the postage of your packets, one of which was heavy, though it came only from Gravesend. The particular account shall be sent so soon as the receipts and payments take place.
You The proposed sending your power of attorney in blank, for me to fill up. It is not received; and when you send it, you should specify the kind of agent you wish, and the business he will have to transact. There are many persons who will be glad to do your business here on commission, but very few few who would make you reciprocal consignments. I have spoken to Messrs. Henckell and Dubuisson on the subject; and they would have no objection to make you a consignment in the cutlery and iron trade, by way of experiment you will learn their sentiments by the letter which I inclose
Your books cannot I fear, be sent by this opportunity; for I did not hear of the ship until she had left London; but they shall be immediately ordered ready for the next opportunity, which, as I hear by M. Desbassayns, will be shortly present itself. Yours most affectionately
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 239]
Richard Penn Esq - Secretary of States Office - colonial department - Downing St.
7 Upper Fitzroy St. June 7. 1813
Dear Sir
Will you have the goodness to peruse the inclosed letter, and let me know whether I can give Boucherville any hope of a passage being given granted him in a transport, and of a small sum of money being advanced to fit him for the voyage. The situation of this young man gives me pain; for after inquiry of Major Barry and of Mr. Farquhar, I do not find that the governor has given any authority for advancing him money; and my own circumstances do not permit me to go further than I have done for prisoners belonging to the Isle of France.
The expense of giving two or three young men a passage and ration of provisions in a transport is so trifling, not more than the expense of sending so many an invalids to France in a cartel, that I should think on a proper representation being made, the Transport Board would not refuse; and it would be both an act of humanity and, in the end, a saving to the public; since their support for one year in England would equal the amount.
Might I also beg the favour of you to inform me, whether amongst the persons to (not prisoners) wishing to go to the Isle Mauritius, and against which governor Farquhar has written that he has no objection, the name of Epervanche is fou to be found; and you will much oblige, dear Sir
your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Joseph Dodd - Donnington near Boston Lincolnshire
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
Dear Sir London June 10. 1813
I duly received your letter of June 6. with that of my sister Henrietta, and am sorry to learn the derangement in my mother's health. These fr repetitions of her complaint are alarming, but I hope that, by following her former course of diet, she will get her health again soon re-established.
I went to Messrs. Rogers and Co. 29 Clements Lane (not 3 Corn Hill) and received the £180, with which I have bought stock in the three per cents reduced to the amount of £320. I wished to have bought into the five per cents which would have given my mother better interest, but they are shut at this time; it is however probable, that it may be changed into the fives, in two or three months, with some advantage both in capital and interest. This money being part of the general property, of which my mother receives the interest during her life, and which is afterwards to be divided, it would
[Page 240]
Mr. Jos. Dodd
have been most regular to have placed it in the names of Messrs. Hursthouse and Franklin, the trustees; but in case it should be necessary to sell of selling or transferring the stock, a bank power costing £1.1.6 must be sent down to Enderby and Tidd to be signed. To avoid this trouble and expense I have, after consulting with my brother, placed it in my name, and jointly with that of Mr. Walker of Richmond for the present; but should you, or any of the parties concerned not think it to be perfectly safe; it can easily be transferred to the names of the trustees, who will then alone, have the disposal of it.
Mr. Walker will receive the half yearly dividends, and remit them to my mother by the hands of Mrs. Shilcock. If the stock remain where it is, the first dividend amounting to £4.6.4 clear of income tax will be due in October; but if it be shifted to the five per cents, the half yearly dividend will probably be 10/- more, but the first dividend not due until January next
I will thank you to communicate this letter to my mother and sisters; and should what I have done not meet your and their approbation, would wish to be informed of it. I am, with best wishes for my mother's restoration and love to my sisters, dear Sir
Yours very truly
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I forgot to mention, that after buying the stock and paying the broker, there remained a surplus of 15/6, which, as I paid £1.0 6 for an advertisement in the Morning Post about Mr. Large's house, and the postage of several letters from Mr. Gleed on the family business, I have kept in part payment.
Richard Penn Esq Sec. of State's Office - Downing Street
7 Upper Fitzroy St. June 28. 1813
Dear Sir
I learn that the Roxburgh Castle lying at Portsmouth, is waiting for convoy to go to Mauritius, and believe that Mr. Hart, the commander, would give M. de Boucherville who is at Forton prison a passage for £80, if one-half of it were paid down. and If therefore there be no probability of the Transport Board doing any thing for the prisoners, this seems to be the most favourable opportunity of getting this unfortunate young man back to his friends. I would, therefore, beg the favour of you to give me any information you may possess relative to the intentions of the Transport Board; and should there be no hope on that side, to say to how far you can go in pecuniary assistance towards accomplishing the object in which you have the humanity to take an interest
I have the honour to be, Sir
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 241]
Rev. J. S. Clarke (Left at No. 16 St. Alban's Street)
7 Upper Fitzroy Street July 6. 1813
Dear Sir
An I call for the views; and wish to say that I have no objection to the matter continued in my letter of May 21. being communicated to the public; but the manner of it will should necessarily be altered, by making the be altered by you, changing the first to the third person, and making such other with corrections as may be necessary requisite required to make it information all going to communicate put it into the form of a communication made (to the N.C. I suppose) by a third person, and which your good sense will suggest. I remain, dear Sir
faithfully Yours
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. I am sorry that the pressure of my occupation has not allowed me to attend at the club; but b at the next meetings, my work will be mostly done and I hope to have some leisure.
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Merchant - Port Louis Isle Mauritius
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London. July 19. 1813
My dear friend
I was with your proctor this morning, and find that the appeal in the Admiralty Court cannot be heard before November next. Mr. Gostling seems to think the case of l'Industrie to be most favourable of three; but has not prevailed upon the appellants to take that decision as a general one; therefore two if not the three cases must be tried. We remember, at the same time, what you have said of not being answerable for le Prudent. Here follows a statement of your account up to this time
How far the money in my hands will answer all the expenses seems doubtful but I may yet hear from Embden and Watts before the decision takes place. Your books are were ordered some time ago; and so soon as Dulau has shipped them, and sends me the master's receipt, he will be paid
I am still busily occupied, more so than ever, to get the my work out by June next for which it is announced; and most happy shall I be when it is done; but what I may be called to afterwards I know not; probably to nothing, in which case I shall retire into the country and endeavour to live upon my little income, with my wife and child. You will receive the weekly paper up to the time when I left it off. It did not seem to interest you much, and I had scarcely any other object in taking it. Mr. Boudret will tell you that all the creoles are to be set at liberty, and sent back at the expense of government as opportunities offer. Our politics are in a state of great uncertainty at this time; but it would require along letter to develope them, and after all you will learn them better by the papers. Remember me kindly to your good family, and also to my friend Labauve, to whom I have not time to write now, and believe me, to be most faithfully and affectionately your sincere friend
M.F. -
[Page 242]
P.S. to Mr. Pitot
In any bills you may send, to me or any other person, be careful that every word is correct, particularly that the orthography of the name in the bill be similar to the indorsement. In Mr. Young's bill No. 2, the final l in Whetherall, was omitted, which gave me a good deal of trouble, and required a bill of indemnity from me against all consequences of the omission
J. Pond Esq. Astronomer Royal - Greenwich
7 Upper Fitzroy Street July 21. 1813
Dear Sir
I called upon Mr. Crosley this morning for the second portion of our observations in the Investigator which the Board of Longitude has employed him to re-calculate; and found, to my regret, that he had quitted the calculations for some weeks, and was occupied in others for the nautical almanac.
My voyage has been announced for publication in June next, and all the exertion of the painters, printers, and engravers, of the calculator, and of myself, are required to fulfil the engagement; but if Mr. Crosley do not advance, I cannot reconstruct the charts, and nor the engravers proceed; and until this department is in a state of forwardness the printers cannot begin. Every thing, therefore, hinges upon Mr. Crosley, and I do beg and intreat you, that some other calculator may take the almanac, and that he may finish complete the observations, which are within two months of being finished.
I wrote thought to have applied to Sir Joseph Banks to intercede with you in behalf of the Investigator's voyage; but am induced to hope that, on this representation, you will have the goodness to let Mr. Crosley complete his work before undertaking any other, for The least inconvenience of a contrary proceeding would be the causing me a loss of £100, in keeping me six months longer in London than necessary; for if the voyage be not published in June, it cannot, with any degree of precedence be brought out till the January following.
I would beg the favour of an early and especially of a favourable answer upon [indecipherable] the movements of many persons will depend; and remain dear Sir, with consideration, dear Sir
Your faithful and obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
Right Hon. Sir Joseph Banks Bt. Spring Grove
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Aug. 11. 1813
Sir
Mr. Bulmer having struck off a few sheets copies proofs of the first sheet of the Introduction to my voyage, I take the liberty of inclosing to you one of them. And would beg the favour to know whether you approve of the type, of the arrangement of the running title and of the arrangement in general. Should there be any thing which can be amended I should be much obliged by the communication of your sentiments
Mr. Nicol, I understand, is getting better, and proposes to visit Spring Grove very soon. I have the honour to remain, with much respect, Sir, your obliged and [indecipherable] F.
[Page 243]
Major Rennell 23 Suffolk Street - Middlesex Hospital
7 Upper Fitzroy St. Aug 15. 1813
Dear Sir
I think it was in the beginning of 1811, soon after my arrival in England, that and when either the first or second time I had the honour to meet you at Sir Joseph Banks', when that that a discussion took place upon the propriety of making use of the term original term Terra Australis, or Australia, as a general name for New Holland and New South Wales collectively; and it was considered, that the extensive discoveries of British navigators in that part of the world ought not to be comprehended under the name given by the Dutch to the parts discovered by them. I cannot be quite certain, whether it was were Major Rennell who was present at the discussion, but know it was a gentleman of whose geographical knowledge Sir Joseph had a high opinion; and therefore, as well as from my recollection, think it could be no other
May I beg the favour of you to say, whether your memory furnishes you with any knowledge have any remembrance of such this above subject being discussed at Sir Joseph's [indecipherable]and if so, whether the conclusion was were as above mentioned? And you will oblige, dear Sir I am desirous of recalling the circumstance to Sir Joseph's recollection, and wish to state it as accurately as possible. your faithful humble servant
but fear to mention the name of the gentleman who was present rely solely on my own memory, Mattw. Flinders
which is the cause of my requesting you to take this trouble.
I am, dear Sir, with much regard
your very faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain D. Woodriff, R. N. Commanding the depot of prisoners of war at Forton
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London Aug. 17. 1813
Dear Sir
Believing that it will be rather a pleasure, rather than a trouble to you, to render service to one of your prisoners, I take the liberty of sending you the inclosed note and bills relative to Mons. Piémont de Boucherville; with a request that you will put him into the way to obtain the £50 without suffering imposition. The bills must be signed and addressed by him to his father in Mauritius; and the best way, as I judge, will then be for him to draw upon Messrs. Herries, Farquhar and Co. for the fifty £50; and for him to give the inclosed bills and note to the person who may furnish him with the money, as an assurance that to be presented at the same time with his own bill will be paid. Should no person be found to advance the money, he must sign and address the bills, and send them to me; I will then get the money, and remit it through the Transport Office. Mr. de Boucherville is to sail in the Chapman, so that no time is to be lost; and I therefore hope you will have the goodness to forward this business for him, that he may not be too late in receiving the assistance of which he l stand so much in need
I have not time, to at this moment, to write to Boucherville, but I sincerly congratulate him on his approaching liberty. I am, dear S with consideration, dear Sir
your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 244]
Rt. Hon. Sir Joseph Banks, Bt. Spring Grove
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Aug. 17. 1813
Sir
From In consequence of the high value I set upon your approbation, was cause that I [indecipherable]your obliging note of the 13th. gave me very great particular pleasure; but I will not disguise, that I was no my chagrin was no less, chagrined to learn, from the post script, that the term Terra Australis, as a name for New Holland and New South Wales collectively was decidewas not be approved.
The opinion that the British discoveries ought not, in justice, to be comprehended under the name given by the Dutch to the parts discovered by them, I believe originated, I believe with myself; but had it not met with the approbation of others whose opinions had great weight with me, and would be respected by the public, I should not have ventured to deviate upon making use, even of the original Terra Australis, in the publication of my charts and voyage. You, Sir Joseph, were the first person whom I thought it essential to consult, and it ap upon the propriety of calling the new continent Australia, and it appeared to be approved; but that it might be done upon due consideration, you were good enough, as I then understood, to request Major Rennell would call in Soho Square. I then proposed my reasons for not using New Holland as a name for including the British discoveries as a part of New Holland, and they were so far approved, that Australia, as a general name for the Continent, was judged a proper one by the persons gentlemen present, A short time after, when I had the honour of shewing my charts to you and to admiral Bligh, the name was again a subject of conversation, and appeared to meet the approbation of the admiral also.
But not to be precipitate, you took the trouble at my request, to present the first sheets of my manuscript to the Earl of Liverpool, then secretary for the colonies, that with a request that he would point out any thing therein, that he might wish corrected or erased; and in Mr. Peel's answer, the discussion upon the propriety of including Carpentaria as part of N. S. Wales, was pointed out as one which the Secre Earl did not wish to be made; and it was erased; but no exception was taken to the term Australia; and I, therefore, thought it approved by him, the part objected to, was wholly erased. I also mentioned the name subject to the hydrographer of the Admiralty, with my reasons for adopting using the name Australia. He did not enter into any discussion upon it, but said, that if I used it, it would be adopted in his office
I then ventured to use the word Australia without reserves; but on speaking to captain Burney upon the subject it, he thought that many persons might object to it from being new; but that Terra Australis, the name by which what was known of that country before 1644, when the original name, was not liable to the same objection, and would, most probably, be adopted by geographers. This I mentioned to you; - captain Burney's reasoning you thought to be good, - and, in consequence, I altered Australia in my manuscript to Terra Australis; and determined abided being thus fortified, as I thought; my mind was made up to use it; although I found, and it was an unpleasant thing, that Mr. Brown and Mr. Arrowsmith, who had both called it New Holland in their publications, did not approve of the alteration
Such, Sir, were the steps I took to ascertain the opinions most essential opinions, before upon the renovation,rather of the name Terra Australis, before using it. That captain Cook speaks of his New South Wales as a part of New Holland is certain; but I cannot
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cannot help thinking, that had Tasman's Instructions of 1644 been known to him, wherein the Terra Australis, or the Great South Land, is the name always used, and had he know that when New Holland was afterwards applied, the Dutch were so far from extending it beyond their own discoveries that even Carpentaria was not included; - had he been aware of these, I conceive his New South Wales would have been considered a part of Terra Australis and not of New Holland; and therefore, that what I had proposed to do, was what he would have done, had he possessed the same documents
It is now, however, wholly
I have no prejudice against the term New Holland as a name for the Britis comprehending the British discoveries on under the term New Holland, except what I feel as an Englishman, and certainly no partiality to gratify in using Terra Australis; and could I have been aware that the latter would not meet your approbation, my own opinion would have been given up instantly. I am now in an unpleasant disagreeable predicament; the name runs through my charts and narrative, and is interwoven in the general arrangement; and from the opinions asked, and approbation given, I am in some degree under an implied obligation to use it; yet to do so, appears to be contrary to that opinion one that opinion, which is [indecipherable] of which I make the greatest account. A hope remains to me, that it is rather from the imperfection of the reasoning in the my printed sheet, than from the demerit of the name itself; and that on considering the subject in all its bearings, you may see cause to think that the name may remain without geographical impropriety, or a want of respect to the authority of captain Cook. Should such be the case, it would afford much gratification to, Sir
your most very faithful and obliged humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Not having made any notes of who were present at the first discussion, mentioned above, I wrote to Major Rennell upon the subject, and have the honour to inclose a copy, both my letter and of his answer.
Copy of the letter p. 312, with the answer as follows
Dear Sir
I certainly have the most perfect recollection of such a conversation having passed; but cannot charge my memory now, with what the opinions of the different persons were: only I certainly think that it was as you say; that Australia was a proper name for the Continent in question; and for the reasons you mention - I suppose I must have been of that opinion at that time, for I certainly think so now - It wants a collective name
DSir
Yrs. faithfully
16 Aug. 1813 J. Renn
John Weyland Esq. Cork Street - Burlington Gardens
7 Upper Fitzroy St. Fitzroy Square
Dear Sir Aug. 27. 1813
In your review of Peron's voyage, you announced that I should publish an account of the Investigator's voyage, made at the same time. I have, in fact, been very closely occupied upon the charts and account since that time; so much so, that even my friends have scarcely seen or heard of me for these two years. The work is now so far forward, that it has been announced for publication next spring; and Mr. Bulmer having struck me off several proofs of the first sheet, I inclose you one of them, believing that you take some interest in the voyage. The account will not be equal to what you flatteringly anticipated in the review, but I trust it will may be an useful addition to the general stock of nautical and geographical knowledge. I remain, dear Sir
Yr. faithful humble servant
[Page 246]
John Pond Esq. Astronomer Royal - Greenwich
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Aug. 27. 1813
Dear Sir
I learned from Mr. Crosley that you had the goodness to comply with my request in allowing him to proceed with the Investigator's astronomical observations. He has now very nearly finished them; but to render them complete, one or two things will still be required to be done. I made several lunar observations at Port Louis in Mauritius, which have some connexion with the longitudes by time keeper on the passage from Timor, and the positions of Sauve and New Island then seen. These observations are not included, strictly speaking, in the Board's order for the recalculation; but as my account will be imperfect without them, I much wish them to pass through Mr. Crosley's hands; and they will furnish us with another test of the goodness of lunar observations, when corrected for the errors found at Greenwich; for Port Louis has been settled both by eclipses and occultations have been observed at Port Louis
There is also a part of Mr. Inman's observations, particularly the rates of our time-keepers at Port Jackson, in 1803, without which our longitudes from that port to Wreck Reef cannot be recalculated. These, with Mr. Inman's own observations on the passage to the Reef, are necessary to the construction of one of my charts; and as these observations will doubtless be recalculated some time or other, I am desirous of having the advantage of them; and I do not suppose, that the whole of what is here mentioned will occupy Mr. Crosley more than a month, or six weeks at most. Mr. Inman's observations and log book were sent to Dr. Maskelyne, and if not in the hands of Dr. Vince, will doubtless be found in some part of the Royal Observatory. The log book kept by him in the Rolla I much wish to see borrow for a few weeks days, the French governor of Mauritius having taken mine from me.
I trust you will see no difficulty in complying with these requests for the benefit of science; and in doing which you will oblige, dear Sir
your very faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain F. Stuart 8 Foley Street
Upper Fitzroy St. Saturday Dear Sir
The conversation we had last Monday evening has induced me state to you, how much I am pressed to get out my voyage by next spring, for which time it is advertised for publication. I have, in fact, so little time, that I never go out but on pressing business and scarcely allow myself time for eating any meals and am closely occupied every day and hour in the week from breakfast till going bed. It pains me to forego the pleasure of seeing you as usual; but the frankness and consideration which you have shewn have explained to me, that I should do an injustice to your character in longer witholding the truth. After this following winter is passed, the when the extreme pressure of occupation will have ha ceased I hope to see our communications renewed; and in the mean time, should there be any thing in which my advice or assistance can avail, be assured that neither my time nor trouble will be regretted where they can usefully serve you; being with much regard, dear Sir
Your affectionate humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 247]
Captain Austen H.M.S. Namur - Sheerness
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London Oct. 6. 1813
Dear Sir
Having understood that you have agreed to receive Mr. Morris, the bearer, on board the Namur, I beg leave to say, upon the authority of a respectable family with whom I am acquainted, that Mr. Morris has been well educated and is esteemed by them as to be a young man of steady conduct who is not wanting ability. His object is to fit himself for, and to obtain the situation of a captain's clerk, and subsequently that of purser; and should his conduct merit your approbation, which there is every reason to hope, I trust think he may meet with your countenance; in the mean time, I have to request you will will you have the goodness to let him be treated as a gentleman, and to have a fair an opportunity of shewing how of what he is capable; in doing which and you will oblige, dear Sir
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea - Jamaica
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London Oct. 8. '13
My dear friend
I have not received any letter from you since that dated which inclosed your brother's bill for £1800, dated March 19., and which I answered on the Aug June. 2. following. I have delayed writing to you since that time, wishing to tell you of your brother having settled Henry's account. Your brother He called on me in July, on his arrival, and received his bill which was accepted, payable Aug. 18. I had some conversation with him about you, and requested he would call whenever convenient, and assured him of my readiness to do him any service in my power to the brother of my esteemed old friend. Since that time I have not seen him, so that whether he may be still in London or gone into Lincolnshire, I know not; nor what are his intentions respecting Henry's account
I received a letter from Henry soon after his arrival in the Downs, and one from Mr. Franklin; from which I learned, and it was with much pleasure, that they had passed some time with you at Jamaica, and given you an opportunity of becoming acquainted with your son. His letter to me was better written than any preceding, and Mr. Franklin continues to speak well of him, so that I think you have fair hopes of his doing well and being one day proud of him. For my own part, since the printing of my voyage is begun, and the charts to be engraven, I am almost having overpowered with my various employments, for the voyage is not fully written nor the charts finished. Accept this apology for so short a letter, and believe me ever, your very affectionate and sincere friend M.F.
[Page 248]
The Commissioners of the Transport Board - Westminister
7 Upper Fitzroy St. Oct. 11. 1813
Gentlemen
Allow me to intercede with you in favour of a young man, formerly on parole at Odiham, named Du Beaudiez. He was sent from thence to the prison at Stapleton for having written an improper letter, and attempting to send it to France in a way not permitted. I have been for some time acquainted with a relation of his, Mons. Louis de Chamisso, whom I bel have every reason to believe consider to be a man of honour and to be a man of honour; he is on parole at Alresford, and it would be very grateful to him were his relation Du Beaudiez allowed to join him at that place; and this is the subject of my present request, believing supposing believing that eighteen months of imprisonment have taught him juster sentiments the young man wisdom, I beg to make venture to hope that my request to that effect will be complied with may obtain your concurrence.
I have the honour to be, Gentlement
Your most obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Rt. Hon. Sir Joseph Banks Bt. Spring Grove
7 Upper Fitzroy St. Oct. 11. 1813
Sir
Finding that Mr. Nicol has not yet been able to go out to Spring Grove, I take the liberty of informing you how we are going on with the voyage. The printers have been at work about six weeks, nearly half of the first volume is printed, and there is every prospect of the whole being done by April, so that the publication may take place in May next. Mr. Nicol has fixed the number of copies at a thousand copies, with the addition of 150 on large paper for the connoisseurs.
There will be sixteen charts, and I am now occupied in constructing the fourteenth. An Six of these are already have been reduced by Mr. Arrowsmith's nephew to the proper scale for engraving, and two of them are put in hand. According to Mr. Arrowsmiths account the charts will not be behind; and if so, as the astronomical observations are on the point of being finished, there will be nothing as I hope, to delay the publication in spring, at the time proposed The very close application required from me to superintend all these, and perform my part of the labour, absolutely deprives me of taking advantage of your obliging invitation to repeat my visit to Spring Grove, which I much regret.
I beg to present my humble respects to Lady Banks and to Mrs. Banks, and have the honour to remain, Sir
your very obliged and
most humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 249]
John Weyland Esq. 3 Cork Street Burlington Gardens
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Nov. 9. 1813
Dear Sir
You will at least have thought me negligent at least, in having taken no apparent notice of your obliging letter of Sept. 3; but be assured the negligence was only apparent. I felt myself much obliged by the trouble you took in correcting the first sheet of my Introduction; and could I have foreseen how far your friendly interest extended, I should have ventured to ask you to peruse some of my manuscript before it went to the printer. Your corrections appeared to me [indecipherable] judicious, and judiciously calculated to abate the stiffness of my natural style, and would have been in part adopted had I not received them sheet one day too late, several of them would have been adopted; but they have been of some use to me in the succeeding parts.
I now inclose a rough sheet of the Investigator's voyage, requesting with a request that you will have the goodness to use your pen freely upon it; not that your corrections can enter into the same pages of my book, for the sheet will be printed off tomorrow; but I send it from the wish to have the advantage of your ideas in as them when employed in correcting future sheets, and also to show you where I have taken the liberty of making use of your name in the work, a liberty for which the intention must plead my excuse
The historical introduction of two hundred pages is printed, and the account of the voyage is advanced as far as you see. I hope to have the two volumes out, with the an atlas of sixteen eighteen charts and views, in May next, but I must labour hard to accomplish it; and should you see as little of me in the next six or eight, as in the last eighteen months, you will not attribute it to any other than this cause. Be pleased to present my respectful compliments to Mrs. Weyland, and believe me to be, with much regard,
Dear Sir,
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mrs Flinders Donington near Boston Lincolnshire
7 Upper Fitzroy St. Nov. 22. 1813
My dear mother
I received your letter of the 15th. containing the information of my poor uncle's death. This intelligence was not very unexpected for we had previously heard from Mrs. Newbald that he was fast declining: it is to be hoped that he has made an exchange for the better
You mentioned having received £4.6.5 as the half yearly interest on the £180 formerly in Mr. Large's hands, being four months after it was put into the stocks, and ask if it be the full sum for the half year. It is the full sum, and If you will ask Mr. Dodd to see my letter of June 10. last, you will find it said "If the stock remain where it is, the first dividend, amounting to £4.6.4 clear of income tax, will be due in October; but if it be shifted to the five per cents, the half yearly dividend will probably be 10s. more, but the first not due until January next." This will nearly answer your question: I said also that the money was bought into the 3 per cents reduced because the five per cents were shut at that time; but I propose, about January next to transfer it to five per cents, if you think proper. The advantage of it will be that the dividend will be 9s. or 10s. butgreater ever afterward, but another dividend will not be due until July
[Page 250]
Mrs. Flinders Donington
1814 but will afterwards come always in July and January. You will be so good as to let me know whether you would like to have the greater dividend and to be three months later in the first payment, or to let it remain as it is.
With respect to Mr. Barnard's charge of 13s., it surprises me. Certainly if Mr. Dodd required from them a stamp receipt for the money, it must be paid for; but it is the first time I have heard of a banker making a charge for remitting money. I have had money remitted by the Spilsby Bank, and have remitted to Mrs. Tyler by the Leeds + Bank without any charge. They do not like the trouble I know, but Mr. Dodd being an agent for Barnards, I conceived it would be done willingly, without any charge. It will however not come afterward.
The balance due to Mr. Dodd of £8.5.5 for the repairs of the cottages may be settled in this manner, unless you find any better way. Should you wish the money in the threes to be transferred to the fives per cents, when it is done I can keep back £8.5.5 out of it and get it sent through Mr. Walker; but you know the dividend will then be somewhat less on that account, and the consent of all parties concerned must be obtained
I am happy to hear of Mrs. Dodds improved health, and we beg our kind remembrances to her and Mr. Dodd. Should Henrietta come to town after her marriage we shall be happy to see her and Mr. Chambers; and are sorry that we cannot offer them a home in our lodging. We are all well here, but my business is so pressing that I have not time to add more than thanthe best wishes of
Your affectionate friend and son in law
Mattw. Flinders
Mr. Robert Ross, Hercules Court - Stock Exchange
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Nov. 23. 1813
Dear Sir
In the last transaction I had at the Bank, a small sum was left at in your hands to make a purchase on the following day. Mr. Rayley made out the account and gave it to you to sign, which you declined, saying you were no stock broker. This appeared to me odd at the time and on reflexion does so still more, since you had signed similar accounts before. Amongst the multiplicity of your business, a small transaction such as that I am mentioning, might easily be forgotten, and it was therefore not reasonable that I should leave £136 for an unfinished transaction without some memorandum to show you it had been settled, in case of any mistake should arising. Mr. Rayly had the goodness to sign the account, which was perfectly satisfactory, but as I wish to know the ground upon which I stand, you will oblige me by saying, upon what principle it was you did not chuse to sign the account.
You have hitherto done business for me upon a liberal plan, but there have been one or two occasions wherein we did not appear to understand each other. I would therefore submit to you whether the following terms meet your approbation, and are such as I may consider to be established between us.
In a double transaction, the commission to be charged on the lowest stock or exchequer provided there be no particular trouble attending it.
Single transactions happening within one month, and with the same stock or exchequer, to be considered as a double transaction.
On a single transaction of £1000 stock or upward, the commission to be charged only one-half but One of £500 to be as much as for £1000; and for lesser sums the full commission of one-eighth to be charged on all lesser sums.
I think it will be satisfactory to you as well as to me to settle this matter and that I should understand the other; and if
[Page 251]
you can favour me with an answer tomorrow or early on Thursday, you will oblige dear Sir
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Mons. L. Du Beaudiz - Stapleton
7 Upper Fitzroy Street - Dec. 1. 1813
Sir
I have the honour to receive your letter of Nov. 29. and to inform you in answer thereto, that an application in your favour has already been made by me at the request of M. de Chamisso, and the answer of the commissioners of the Transport Board was "that the intercepted letter, in consequence of which this prisoner was ordered into close confinement was of so very improper a nature, that he cannot possibly be again admitted to parole."
I wrote this answer to M. Chamisso in October last, and am surprised he did not inform you of it. since it would have save you the trouble of writing by convincing you showing you that it was out of my power to do you any service
I am Sir
your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
N. Gostling Esq. Godliman St. Doctor's Commons
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
Monday evening
Dear Sir
It seems not improbable that Mr. Brougham or some of the opposite counsel may enlarge upon the cruelty of confining such a number of slaves of slaves on board the small vessels L'Eclair etc. for a long sea passage. Should this be the case and Dr. Arnold think it advisable to make any reply, the following observations between the passage from Africa to the West Indies, and from Madagascar to Mauritius may be of use
From Africa to the Jamaica the distance is, from Sierra Leone 1260 leagues, and from New Calabar 1680 leagues; and the passage occupies from one to two months, and lies mostly in the neighbourhood of the equator.
From the Foul Point or Tamatave to Mauritius is only 160 leagues, and the passage occupies from seven to fourteen days, and lies mostly beyond the southern tropic, where the climate is cold, compared to what the Tamatave slaves are accustomed
A comparison of the cruelty in one case, transferred to the other cannot therefore be made applied to the other with justice
I am yours very truly Mattw. Flinders
[Page 252]
Mr. Cousins East Kirkby near Bolingbroke Lincolnshire
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London
Dec. 16. 1813
Dear Sir
I have received a letter from Miss Carr of Louth, relative to Mr. Samuel Ward's legacy, in which I find that she and her sister are involved in some difficulty with Mr. Walker of Spilsby, he having made a charge to them of £4.16.4 and moreover detained six months interest. It appears also that objection is made to paying the legacy of the oldest sister, though Mr. Allison their trustee would give proper security.
I cannot understand how Mr. Walker came to have anything to do in the business, since all that was required to be done on Mrs. Carr's death was to give six months notice to Mr. Lane to pay in the money, and to pay settle the legacies when it was received. You will therefore much oblige me by explaining the state of the business, and what further is intended to be done. According to Mrs. Carr's will, the older sister is to be kept by the younger; and it therefore seems proper that her £100 should be paid to the trustee, that the interest may be given to the younger sisters towards her maintenance
I remain dear Sir,
Your faithful humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain W. Raven E.B. of the Trinity House
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Dec. 25 1813
Dear Sir
Mr. John Crosley having informed me that the place of examiner to the Trinity House had become vacant, and expressed a wish that I would write to you in order to his being appointed, I take this opportunity of calling myself to your remembrance, and of stating Mr. Crosley's pretentions. He was formerly assistant at the Royal Observatory, then astronomer with captain Broughton in the Providence, and afterwards with me in part of the Investigators voyage; since which he has been employed as a calculator of the ephemeris and has recalculated all my observations by order of the Board of Longitude, and in no person I conceive is no person to be better fully qualified for a mathematical examiner. Should Mr. Crosley be appointed, your establishment will make an acquisition; and in using your endeavours to accomplish his wishes, you will oblige dear Sir, dear Sir
Your am ob acquaintance Yours very faithfully
and truly
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Will you have the goodness to show this to captain Cotton, the deputy master? with my compliments?
[Page 253]
Mons. Jean Le Moulles, on board the Sampson prison ship, at Chatham
7 Upper Fitzroy Street London Jan. 13. 1814
Sir
I duly received your letter of Dec. 31. last, and should have answered it sooner had I not been in daily expectation of receiving letters from Mr. Pitot which should enable me to give you the information desired. None have been received, and I have now lost the expectation for some time. Having therefore no directions or information from Mr. Pitot, respecting the 150 dollars paid into his hands by your brother, it is impossible for me to say further, than that so soon as his directions are received I will not fail to let you know, and will point out the means by which you may obtain the remittance
I am, Sir,
your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Richard Penn Esq. Secretary - of - States' Office - Downing Street
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Jan. 14. 1814
Sir
I had the honour of transmitting to you a letter from His Excellency governor Farquhar, expressing his wish that Monsieur Sauvejet, with his wife and daughter, might be permitted to return from France to Mauritius. This letter was given at the request of several respectable inhabitants of Mauritius, with from from whom I am received many much attention and kindness whilst a prisoner in that island, and I had hopes that my lord Bathurst would in consequence have granted the permission requested; but such not having yet taken place, I beg to add the following circumstances which are within my own knowledge
Monsieur Sauvejet has a considerable part of his property at this time in Mauritius, I knew him there rather intimately, and if I were required to point out the most peaceable, quiet, and orderly man of my acquaintance, I think it would be him. His wife and daughter are natives of the island. A friend of his has lately arrived from Mauritius for the in the intention of purchasing a vessel and cargo, and returning to the island; and were Mr. Sauvejets' permission immediately granted so that he might arrive from Paris in time, this friend would gladly accommodate him and his family with a passage.
May I beg of you, Sir, to make these circumstances known to Earl Bathurst. So soon as I could be assured of the permission for himself, his wife, daughter, and two servants being given. I would write to Mr. Sauvejet, and think he might yet arrive in time to profit by the opportunity, about which I feel anxious from the kindnesses received from him and his friends relations in Mauritius. I am Sir
Your very obedient
humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 254]
Mons. Jean Le Moullec, on board the Sampson prison ship Chatham
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
Sir London Jan. 15. 1814
I have this day received a letter from Mr. Pitot, accompanied with 35 pieces of gold which he directs me to pay to Jean and Benjamin Le Moulles prisoners on parole at Odiham and also inclosing the within letter. The pieces are as follows
Spanish quadruples 2
Half do. 1
Quarter do. 7
Eighth do. 1
Portuguese half do. 3
Double Louis d'or 1
Napoleon of 40 francs 1
English guineas 2
Half do. 3
Thin pieces like sequins 14
35
Although these are directed to be paid to prisoners on parole at Odiham, I apprehend, Sir, that they are intended for you and your brother; And on your sending me an assurance from under the hand of the commander of the Sampson that you were at parole on parole at Odiham, and transmitting me directions from yourself and brother to pay these pieces into the hands of any person you may specify in London, it shall be done. Should you have no person to send for them, or whom you wish to receive them; and if it be your desire, I will undertake to get them sold for you, and so soon as this amount is ascertained I will authorise you and your brother to draw for the amount by a bill of exchange, for which you may get value in Chatham, on producing my letter; or should there be any difficulty, the commander of the Sampson would probably not object to indorsing the bill, on being made acquainted with the circumstances. It is necessary to say that the laws forbid the guineas and half guineas to be sold; for them I must therefore add the amount [indecipherable letter]at the current rate to the other pieces, if this be agreeable to you.
You will please to let me know your wish and that of your brother, and I will endeavour to conform to them
I am Sir,
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Your communications to me should be sent through the Transport Office
[Page 255]
R. W. Hayes Esq. Admiralty Office
7 Upper Fitzroy Street Jan. 21. 1814
Sir
Joshua Smith Esq. some time since made an application to my Lord Melville in favour of Mr. Thos. Hippius, and I am informed that it was promised he should be put on the list of those to be promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Mr. Hippius is at present serving in board the Mediterranean, on board the Caledonia, and the commander in chief on that station is desirous of promoting him, could it be known that, his being on the list for promotion, his appointment would be confirmed.
The purpose for which I have taken the liberty of addressing myself to you, Sir, is to request the favour of being informed whether Mr my Lord Melville has had the opportunity of placing Mr. Hippius on the list. His being a relation of Mrs. Flinders will I hope be admitted an excuse for making this perhaps irregular inquiry.
I have the honour to be, Sir
your very obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain R. N.
Mons. Sauvejet No. 9 Boulevards du Temple à Paris 7 Upper Fitzroy Street - London Feb. 2 1814
My dear Sir
I received your letters of the 1st. and 20th. of July, as also that of Madame Sauvejet of Nov. 9. last, several months after date, to all which I now give an answers that are obliged to be very concise
The cause of my long silence has been wholly owing to the want of opportunity to send letters. The British government has long ceased to grant licences to trade with France, and if granted it would be altogether out of my sphere to apply for any: they are moreover granted only to merchants. Every thing had been attempted for M. Merven previously to your writing, but having broken his parole, he has excluded himself from all favour. M. Gautier has also broken his parole, and he must suffer the inconveniences attached to such conduct
I lately sent you through the office for Prisoners of war, some letters from the Isle of France, that being the sole way left open. I received from Labauve a letter of governor Farquhar requesting you might be permitted to go out to Mauritius. This was laid before the Sec. of State for the colonies, and after several applications, his permission has been obtained to that effect, and also one for you your wife, daughter, and two servants to land in England and come up to London. This last permission has been sent to the Collector of the customs at Dartmouth, where the cartels from Morlaix usually come; and it is since I began this letter that information of it has reached me
Mr. Le Cornu has arrived from Mauritius to purchase a ship and cargo for Messrs. Pitot, and to return immediately; and if you could arrive in London in two or even three months he will be able give you and family a passage, and even give you a share in the speculation should you wish it. There are besides frequent opportunities for Mauritius
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M. Sauvejet
for Mauritius; the usual expense of a passage is £120 for each person and half the sum for each servant. Sometimes one half is permitted to be paid on arrival, but the price is then raised
If then my dear Sir you have made up your mind to return to Mauritius, these are the steps you must take. Get the permission of your government to embark in the first cartel from Morlaix. If the vessel lan go to Dartmouth, come to London in the public stage coach; and on arrival take a hackney coach (fiacre) and drive to Sablonnières hotel, Leicester Square; write me a note by the two-penny post to let me know, and I will then be with you immediately in a few hours and put you into the right way. Should the vessel go to any other port than Dartmouth, and you should not be allowed to come to London, write to me and I will get the obstacles removed.
I cannot at present enter into further details; but again recommend, if your mind be fixed on Mauritius, to use all expedition, the opportunity offered by M. Le Cornu being such as rarely offers. My affectionate regards attend Mad. Sauvejet and my little greatgood friend Noémi.
Your sincere friend and humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
All goes well with our friends at M.. Aristide placed at 100 dollars a month, Marc at 50, Delphine married, and probably Sophie. Labauve and André increasing their fortunes. The Dumouhy's etc. well. No epidemic amongst the cattle
Mrs. Flinders Donington Lincolnshire
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
London Feb. 3. 1814
My dear mother
Having previously written to Mr. Walker upon the subject of selling the £320 stock in the three per cents and buying it into the five per cents, he this day came to town, and the business is done. The stock which cost not quite £180 was sold for £214 in cosequence of the rise in stocks. I took from it £8, and with the £206 remaining, have bought five per cent stock £214.7.3 for which you will receive interest £9.13.4 clear of income tax, or £4.16.8 every July and January.
You will therefore see, that after taking away above £8 for the cottages, the original £180 is become £206; and instead of receiving £8.10 a year interest, as I believe you did from Mr. Large, you will now get £9.13.4 a year. I have paid the £8 to Messrs. Wilson, Green, and Wilson on account of Mr. Dodd, of which they will give him advice in their first letter
This business is therefore settled, and as I think very advantageously both for the capital and interest; and had you fortunately called in Mr. Leatherland's money at the same time, it would have have gained nearly twenty per cent as this short time has done, both in capital and interest; but the opportunity is now gone by, and money put in now would not more than 43/4 clear of income tax.
(Remainder of the letter by Mrs. F)
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Mons. Jean Le Moullec - On board the Sampson prison ship
7 Upper Fitzroy Street
London Feb. 4. 1814
Sir
On the reception of your letter of the 28th. and after making the necessary inquiry at the Transport Office, I sold the pieces of gold for you as stated at the prices stated in the inclosed paper, and with the 31/2 guineas, the amount is £45.6.6. I yesterday went to the Bank and obtained a post bill to that amount, which I now remit to captain Edward Hutchinson, requesting him to get it cashed for you and to send me your receipt.
Your letter for Mauritius is come to hand, as also the paper you desire to have inclosed; and they shall be both sent by the earliest opportunity
I am Sir, your obed. humble servant M.F.
Captain E. Hutchinson R.N. Agent for prisoners at Chatham
7 Upper Fitzroy St. London Feb. 4. '14
Sir
Some money having been sent to me for Mons. Jean Le Moullec, a prisoner under your charge, and having no other means of making the remittance to him, I take the liberty of inclosing a bank post bill for the amount, payable to your order; and request the favour of you to get it cashed for him at a Chatham bankers, and on paying the amount into his hands to give him the inclosed letter, and desire of him a letter acknowledging the receipt
In performing this act of service to a prisoner, you will much oblige, Sir
Your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
captain R.N.
Mons. Jean Le Moullec on board the Sampson prison ship Chatham
14 London St. Fitzroy Square London March 1. 1814
Sir
Having informed your brother at Newtown of the £45.6.6 transmitted to you for your and his use, he writes me by the post under date of Feb. 24 that he has not heard anything from you on the subject, and requesting to know the instructions from his brother at Mauritius, as to the share he was to receive. I had hoped to have no more trouble or expense upon this subject, but justice requires me to give him all the information You will in my power; and I shall request him to inform to inform me so soon at the end of this month how the matter stands, that my correspondent at Mauritius may state it to M. Piérre Le Moulec
I am Sir, your obed. humble servant
P.S. As I shall quit London in a Mattw. Flinders
few months, your letters from Mauritius
cannot pass through my hands: this will be written
on the back of your letter to your brother.
Mons. Benjamin Le Moullec, prisoner on parole, Newtown Montgomery shire
14 London St. Fitzroy Square
London March 1. 1814
Sir
I received your letter of the 24th. last, and have to state in answer, that the instructions, for the division of the £45.6.6 sent to your brother Jean; were contained in a letter to him from M. Pierre Le Moulec at Mauritius; and it is to him, not to me, that
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Ben. Le Moulec
not to me, that you should apply. The letter however passed through my hands, and being open, I read it, and so far as my memory serves, will repeat it to you this part of it to you.
The money was sent to Jean Le Moullec for the use of himself and his two brothers Benjamin and Isaac; and no particular sum was specified for either, but the fair distribution was confided to him, in consequence of the writers confidence in the goodness of his heart; but it was recommended, that if Isaac remained in prison, he should have the largest share, though no particular sum was specified.
The sum was sent in pieces of gold by a friend of mine, with a request
At the request of a friend of mine, and from feeling for the situation of a prisoner, having been one myself, I undertook the remittance, and having so done did not expect to have any further trouble or expense. I have however written today to your brother John; and think it necessary to request that you will let me know so soon as you receive any thing satisfactory from your brother, or if not to write me at the end of this month that I may give the necessary information at Mauritius. At the same time, Sir, it is proper to observe, that both on account of your parole, and to avoid putting me to any more unnecessary expense, your letter should pass through the Transport Office.
I am Sir
your obed. humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Captain R.N.
M. P. J. Gautier, on board the Vigilant, prison ship at Portsmouth
14 London St. Fitzroy Square
Sir London Mar. 31. 1814
Some days since I received your letter of the 18th. instant, and thank you for the communication it contains. It is however extraordinary that Miss Sauvejet should say, "nous avons reçu des nouvelles de ma tante Labauve"; since I wrote to inform Madame Sauvejet of her death in 1812, and received an answer to the letter several months since. I wrote to M. Sauvejet on the 2nd. of February last, by a gentleman going to Paris, and also by the Transport Office. To From the worthy Madame Haumont I received a letter several months since by M. Du Leguen; this gentleman has been expecting to return to France, and is to take letters for me, but it appears that the state of political affairs has caused him delay. This is the cause that Madame Haumont has not heard from me, and when you write I should be glad that it were mentioned. I have letters from Mauritius dated January 6 and 9th. M. Labauve, André, Mad. Pailleux and Mad. Charreton (Sophie) were then well, as also Aristide and Marc Labauve, and all the relations of Madame Haumont: they had received some of her letters
With respect to obtaining any change in your situation, I fear it cannot be done, and from being confined by indisposition I cannot make the necessary inquiries. As however your imprisonment will doubtless be terminated in a few months, this need not cause you any disquietude. It will give me great
[Page 259]
pleasure to see the prisoners on all sides restored to their families friends, and your intended connexion alliance with the family of Madame Haumont gives me a double interest in your release. I am, Sir
your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
The Rt. Hon Sir Joseph Banks Soho Square
14 London Street - Fitzroy Square
April 19. 1814
Sir
May I beg the favour of your advice as to the propriety of putting a dedication to my book; and should you approve of it, whether you think well of the idea I had of dedicating it to the four first lords of the Admiralty who honoured the Investigator's voyage with their patronage?
A rather painful and protracted fit of the stone has prevented me the honour of waiting upon you, and I fear will do so for some time; happily the account of the voyage was so nearly finished before it came on that little else was required than to correct the letter press and proofs of the charts, and this I have hitherto been able to get through; so that the voyage may still be ready for publication on the first of June
I have the honour to remain
Sir,
Your very obliged and humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
M. de Froberville, with part of his manuscript
Mr. Thomas Pitot - Port Louis - Isle Mauritius
14 London Street - Fitzroy Square
London April 26. 1814
My dear friend
My last letter was dated July 19. 1814, since when I have received various letters from you, the two last especially that by Mr. Hewetson dated July 7. 1813, and since the last by Mr. Exshaw of Jan. 6. 1814. My first business is to render an account of the commissions you have given me, and of the sums received and paid on your account
Some of the letters for France from you and P. Froberville remained some time in my hands for want of the means of conveyance; but on the late happy and wonderful turn of affairs they have been all forwarded
Mr. Henckell's commissions delivered to him, and will be executed conformably to the instructions on the arrival of the James
Gazettes. I have purchased for you the Morning Chronicle from Jan. 1 to March 31 though I fear one or two will be wanting: the price you will see in the account. I had been in the habit of paying one shilling a week to see the Times for an hour every morning; but since your order April 1. to take in a paper I have taken them altogether thinking the editors remarks would not now offend you, and will send the papers to you as often frequently as possible. You will be charged with the full price, with a deduction of the shilling per week above mentioned,
[Page 260]
Mr. Pitot
which will reduce the subscription nearly one-third
Books, music etc. Your bill on St. Malo was delivered to Dulau & Co. several months since, with instructions to buy the musick and strings so soon as the money was obtained; but up to this day they have not received an answer; that commission therefore yet remains unexecuted. On learning from M. Le Cornu a few days since, that he had taken freight on board the Prince Regent, I requested him to order the strings and music for which the six quadruples were sent by Madame Rouillard; and also such political and literary works of recent date as I thought would interest you. Whether they will get them in time I do not know at this moment, nor is any bill or account yet come; but if not in time for the P. Regent perhaps they will by Mr. Exshaw's vessel
Harp. It has been made expressly for Madame E. Pitot, as near as possible to your instructions, and I anxiously desire may give satisfaction. The price is below your calculation, though No limit was set to the price of the manufacturer and he was ordered to make the best instrument ever constructed in London he was able; the expense however is under your calculation, although a handsome covering is added to it, with additional strings etc. It is embarked on board the Prime Regent, and insured by M. Le Cornu.
L'Eclair etc This business, I am sorry to say is not yet settled, but I have every hope that it will be soon, and to your and my satisfaction. Three difft. times I went to hear the cause tried; but on the two first other causes had precedence and the barristers were so long winded that ours could not come on; the last time our cause of was first on the list, but one of the judges was ill, and I was again disappointed. This was six weeks ago; and since which I have not been able to move out of the house; and when the court will sit again is uncertain but may be expected daily. In the mean time I send you the printed papers laid before the judges by the appellants and the defending advocates.
Money received. The articles under this head will generally appear from the subjoined account. Having £580 of yours in my hands in June last which was not likely to be soon wanted, it was placed out at interest, and remained until December when Messrs Gostling requested to have £300 and it was expected the remainder would be wanted in a few weeks. The money was therefore called in, and you are allowed £13.1 interest for the six months, being 5 per cent. per ann. with deduction of income tax; had we been aware of the delay, a part of it might have remained longer. The ingots given to Mr. Baily of the Astrea have arrived through the medium of Embden and Watts, but they themselves have not sent any thing; neither have Wombwell, Gautier and Coompany yet received Mr. Dechezeaulx's bill, consequently your £27.4.4 is not paid in. My letter of June 7. 1813 told you that Mr. Ellis had lost his pieces of gold at the Cape. Mr. Hewetson brought me five quadruples, and £4.10 for the sixth which he had given away in mistake. No more has been heard of Mr. Main, and you are therefore charged for part of the loss sustained be of one of his ingots: possibly he may yet appear, and credit will then be given you.
The account in this place, from book
I expect you will say, "my friend Flinders has not executed some of these commissions with his usual care"; in fact I have not been able to look after any thing for some time, being confined to the house and almost laid up by suffering from one
[Page 261]
or more stones in the bladder. The foundation of these was laid during my imprisonment in Mauritius, and three years of writing and chart making almos and no time to take exercise, have brought them to a pitch that I can now scarcely move up and stairs to go to bed, and what will be the issue I is uncertain. It is fortunate for me that my work was so near completed or it must have been delayed at least another year; but I have just been able to keep the printers and engravers in motion, and the work will still be out, as I hope, in June next. After that time I shall probably have to undergo an operation, and my then remove into the country; it will therefore be necessary for you to appoint an agent, not only for your mercantile business, but also for the to executeion of such small commissions as you may have to send, for on quitting London I shall be removed from the sphere of acting for you in this way. You should, my friend, now come to Europe yourself, and make substantial arrangements on every point, both in London and Paris; the time and expense of the voyage would be more than counterbalanced by the advantage and the pleasure of it; and you will not doubt of the gratification it would give me to see you here
Be so good as make known to to let Mr. Pièrre Le Moullec know, that his 35 pieces of gold were sold for £45.6.6, which sum was remitted to Jean Le Moullec. This last sent me a letter for his brother not respecting the money; but being put with letters destined for France, it was unfortunately sent away with them in my illness, and whether he may ever get it is uncertain. I inclose for him a letter from his brother Benjamin. Make known to M. Le Moullec and indeed to all others not to send me any more commissions or letters to be forwarded in Mauritius who are likely to send me commissions or letters to be forwarded, that I am shall be no longer in a situation to serve them
+ Remember me very affectionately to all the members of your worthy family, excuse my not entering into politics and many other points which would be done if I were able, and believe most sincerely and affectionately
Your true friend
Mattw. Flinders
Direct for me at R. Brine's Esq. Navy Agent, Clifford's Inn London; he will always know where I am
I shall have money enough for all your commissions and to spare, therefore do not send any more, but let me know to whom the surplus should be paid when I quit London
[Page 262]
A Monsieur Labauve, à Palma - Plaines de Wilhems
14 London Street - Fitzroy Square
London April 27. 1814
My dear Labauve
Many thanks for the various information contained in your friendly letter of Jan. 7. last; it is altogether satisfactory except that I should rather wish to see you fixed on a plantation free from encumbrances than even at Palma; but you are more speculative than me, and certainly understand the business better; I should prefer Andre's plan of getting on slowly but surely, as being the least liable to be overthrown by unforeseen events
With respect to the cows, I have only to approve of and thank you for all that has been done; and to say as before, follow the agreement by letting them increase or selling as you find most expedient
My work h is now drawing near to a close, but I am sorry to say it has cost me very dear. M One or more stones in the bladder, of which the foundation was laid during my imprisonment, have received such an increase from three years of sitting still, that for several weeks past I have not been able to move out of the house, and scarcely to get up and down stairs. The pain is at times so severe than even writing is impossible except at intervals, and had not my book and charts been so far advanced, the publication must have been delayed; but happily little more was required than to correct the letter press and the proof engravings, which I have hitherto been able to accomplish, and hope that it will be entirely done in June next. I had intended to send a copy of the work to your most excellent mother, and a proof of my friendship, and my gratitude for her unceasing kindness during my long imprisonment; this I now intend propose to offer to you my dear Labauve, and request you will accept it as a proof my friendship, and my of gratitude to your family for the unceasing kindness I received in it during a long persecution
I am obliged by your desire to see me in a good place at Mauritius, but this is now but little probable; and unless I can without recovery from this villainous disorder I shall in fact be fit for nothing. After the publication it is probable that I must suffer a severe operation, and after that go into the country for the re-establishment of my health; and shall probably remain unless any suitable employment should induce me to act otherwise. I have not received any intelligence from M. Sauvejet since the wonderful change of affairs in France, so that it is doubtful whether he will make use of the permission to go out to Mauritius which I some time since obtained for him. M
Letters from Aristide and Marc ought to be answered, but I am incapable of much writing, and therefore beg them through you to accept my thanks and best wishes. Assure To Mesdames P Pailleux and Charreton as also André of the continuance of my friendship; present my affectionate respects to your Madame Labauve, and my kind remembrances to the Palma family and all those with whom I was in the habit of intimacy. Excuse more at this time, and believe me to be, my dear Labauve
Your very affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
Direct to me at R. Brine's Esq. Navy agent, Cliffords Inn, London
[Page 263]
Mr. Charles Desbassayns - Riviere des Pluies - Isle Bourbon
London St. Fitzroy Square
London Apr. 27. 1814
My dear friend
Let me first felicitate you that the tyrant is fallen, never to rise again. France is once more herself again, and when the revolutionary principles shall be purged off, she will be as she ought, one an object of pride and ornament to Europe. All is peace, joy and exultation, and Europe entire is in a delirium of joy. Most sincerely do I join in it, but I suffer too much to be able expres from bodily infirmity to be able to express my feelings at any length. [There is now decidedly one or more stones in my bladder; brought on first by my imprisonment, and increased by sitting so closely to my work for three years as not to allow of proper exercise. I suffer at times severely, and were not my voyage so far advanced it must have stopped; but having little more to do when the severe violent attack came on, than to correct the press and the engravings, I have been able as yet to go through this, and the publication is still expected to take place in June next. After that is done I think of undergoing the operation of cutting, should it be considered necessary; and as there is but little prospect of afterwards obtaining any suitable employment, it is probable I shall retire into the country with my family. This consists as before of my wife, whose health is tolerable but not strong, - of my little Anne who is healthy and fat, active and beginning to talk, - and of one female servant. To maintain these you will say is not difficult; but to do it comfortably, much economy will be necessary in the management of my little revenue
I thank you much for your letter of Oct. 17 ?18 last, and for the statement, I ha since received from Mr. Pitot, of my little property in your hands. It is perfectly satisfactory and I wish you to proceed as you have hitherto done, and as you do with your brothers concerns. Now that we shall have peace, and remittance may probably be made in produce with advantage, it is not impossible that I may desire to withdraw this little fund, in case it should be necessary for my family; but you will have timely notice of this to inform the holders at least six months before hand.
Being unable to write long together, I must refer to your brother Panon, my excellent neighbour and friend, for information on other points. Assure your Mad good wife and Madame Pailleux of the continuance of my friendship, and believe me to be, my dear Charles,
Your affectionate and obliged friend
Mattw. Flinders
Monsieur Curtat - Avocat au Port Louis - Isle Maurice
[Page 264]
James Wiles Esq. Liguanea Monmouth Mount, St. Andrews Jamaica
London May 3. 1814
My dear friend
Your letter of Dec. 23 did not reach me till the end of March, and I was sorry to find that my letter to you of the preceding October had not arrived. The first thing to tell you is that within these seven weeks I have become such an invalid as not to be able to move out of the house nor even to sit up for long together. A stone in the bladder, apparently the accumulation of years, and latter augmented more rapidly by my three years of a sedentary life is the cause of this misfortune; and not withstanding remedies I have been getting worse, and shall probably be obliged to undergo a severe operation so soon as this book is out. Happily the work was so far advanced that little more was required that to correct letter press and examine engravings; and this I have hitherto been able to get through, though with pain and difficulty, for even writing is a trouble to me. I will however say something upon each point of your last
With respect to the sale of my book in Jamaica, I do not know any other mode than your bookseller taking orders for copies and writing to London for the number wanted. You know it will be two quarto volumes with a large Atlas, but the price is not yet fixed till it comes out: somewhere between five and ten guineas I suppose.
The Bedford went to refit at Sheerness after her accident, and is probably still there; whether she may be paid off or not is uncertain, but as far as I am able the best shall be done for Henry.
After my publication it is probable I shall go to reside in the country, if able to move, for I do not suppose any employment is likely to be given me. Sir Joseph Banks is also unable to move himself, but he has the advantage of being able to bear the motion of a carriage which I cannot, and he has one to ride in, so that he still goes about. His bodily health is still good and he interests himself as much as ever in objects of science; his mind seems as alert as ever is perfectly unimpaired, and he is indeed a most wonderful man, considering his age and infirmities
I am happy to hear that you will reap a good crop of coffee, for it is now become highly valuable and will bring you in handsomely
The account for your son Henry was settled by your brother, who I believe remains in town to dispose of his seeds; but I have not seen him for many months
Excuse more, my good friend, and believe to be
Yours very affectionately
Mattw. Flinders
Direct to me for the present at Mr. Brine's, Navy Agent, Cliffords Inn, London
[Page 265]
A Madame Haumont, à Auray, Département du Morbihan - France
London le 4 May 1814
Madame
Quoique très souffrant je n'ai pu lire votre lettre du 17 dernier sans attendrissement, sans oublier mes maux douleurs pour prendre part à la joie d'Auray en passant échappant du plus affreux despotisme au gouvernement doux des anciens rois de France. C'est en sentiment qui a eté partage Ce changement heureux a eté vivement senti par toute lAngroyaume unileterre, sans lire avoir lu, cependant, le recit touchant contenu dans votre lettre, où je vois partout cette extreme sensibilité qui fit marquée si vivement le trait le plus marquant peut-être dans le caractère de notre estimable mon amie regrettée
Ne pouvant écrire que peu de mots il faut entrer de suite en affaires. Au commencement de Janvier 1814 tous vos parens, Madame, à l'Isle de France, se portaient bien. Mlle. Sophie D'Arifat est devenue Madame Charreton, et sans doute vous avez su Mlle. Delphine le mariage de Mlle. Delphine avec M. Pailleux, un associé de Charles Desbessayns, avec qui ils ont pris demeure. Mlle. Dumouhy mariée avec M. F. Pitot, un jeune négociant. Labauve a quitté l'association son associé en habitation, M. Curtat, mais amicalement, croyant mieux travailler sur le terrein étendu de sa belle mère Madame Périchon. Il parait heureux dans son ménagem et attendait le second accouchement de sa femme, espérant être plus heureux de bonheur. André est toujours heureux, et ses affaires vont très bien; il a trois enfans, ainsi que Madame Desbassayns; les deux nouvelles mariées paraissent ne pas s'empressor: Un reforme dans le gouvernement de Maurice a fait perdre à Aristide et à Marc leurs petites places. Marc travaille à la sucrerie de son frère André, préparatoire à la direction de celle de Ch. Desbassayns, mais etAristide n'avait pas encore trouvé à s'employer; on me dit du bien de ses jeunes gens. Labauve a vendu le Refuge au gouverneur Farquhar pour trois mille piastres; et il dit aussi "nous avons reçu la lettre que vous nous avez envoyé de Madame Haumont; nous en avons reçu d'autres bien vieilles. Les nouvelles de France sont bien rares pour nous. Je ne sais ce que deviennent nos parents et nos propriétés du Languedoc".
La pierre, qui m'a fait invalid depuis sept semaines par la souffrance qu'elle donne, m'oblige de terminer. S'il est possible je dois me retirer à la campagne sous peu, où il me sera tres difficile à aider votre correspondance avec Maurice. Je vous recommande donc, Madame, la voie des négotiants, et comme le chemin sera ouvert j'espère que vous n'eprouverez pas de difficulté dorénavant. Je ne perde pas tout espoir de faire un jour la connaissance de la soeur de mon amie estimable tant estimee et tant regrettée, et je vous prie de me croire tres sincerement
Madame Votre tres dévoué et fidel serviteur
Mattw. Flinders
[Page 266]
Captain Mends R. N. Superintendant of prison ships - Portsmouth
Post paid 14 London St. Fitzroy Square
Dear Sir London May 10. 1814
On board the Suffolk, under your superintendance, there is a young man, Mons. P.J. Gautier, in whose early liberation I feel an interest; and whom I know to have a connexion of the tender kind which makes him think every day to be a month until he shall be permitted to return to France. I would not presume upon the slight acquaintance I had the opportunity of making with you at Mr. Crokers table on your return from Spain in 1810; but as a brother officer I trust you will admit the propriety of my requesting may that M. Gautier may be favoured in his wish so far as is consistent with propriety and lies within your province, since several other prisoners in the same situation with himself have already been sent away; and your influence in this point will much oblige
Dear Sir,
Your obedient humble servant
Mattw. Flinders
Dr. March 23 Russel Square
14 London Street - Fitzroy Square
May 13. 1814
Sir
I wish to inform you what has been the result of taking the muriatic acid, which you recommended and I commenced on the 12th of last month. Beginning with 13 drops it was increased to 23 on the fourth day, and the crystalline deposit appeared to have diminished; but an irritation of the bladder was produced, and much fleshy mucus loaded with crystals was passed on the two following days, attended with constant uneasiness. The dose was then reduced to 20 drops, and for two days, when it was increased to 22 and 23; which and the irritation caused but a return of the irritation and I returned obliged me to come back to 20, finding no more could be safely taken. This was continued until May 4, when the crystalline deposit continued to be nearly the same, though somewhat less abundant, than on commencing the muriatic acid. Lumps of fleshy mucus came away occasionally were formed in the bladder every three or four days, causing sense of a dull, heavy pain, and it seemed as if the calculi were held together by them; when any considerable quantity of this mucus came away, I felt relief, the pain was increased for the lu the irritation in the urinary passage was considerable, but I afterwards experienced relief for a day or two, until a return came on; my general health and ability to move were in the mean time became less, so as to be very perceptible by comparison diminishing and had I not find that not tea produced ha constant, though temporary relief I should probably have been by this time confined to bed. With the advice of my surgeon I now tried a mode of increasing the dose of acid, so as to stop the deposit if possible, and 24 drops were taken for two days. The consequence was an increased irritation of the bladder and of the dull heavy pain, and on the two following days large quantities of mucus loaded with and crystals were passed, with much difficulty and uneasiness.
It now therefore appeared, both to Mr. Hayes and myself, that the muriatic acid did certainly not produce the desired affect, and that it was advisable to quit it for a time of stopping the crystalline depositions
[Page 267]
and my disorder was daily becoming worse; I therefore ceased to take it from rising seven times in the night I had got to ten and sometimes twelve times, and my disorder was becoming worse in every respect; it was therefore deemed advisable to leave it off the acid for a time, and these last six days none has been taken; but the use of distilled water, of barley water with gum arabic, and taking tea four times a day, have been continued as before. After two days the dull heavy pain had mostly ceased, I felt more light and able to move about, and my spirits were better; but at times sharper pains were felt from the calculi coming in contact with the neck of the bladder, and irritating the urethra through to its extremity. Yesterday, however, a general irritation of the bladder was felt, whence arising, unless from a slight cold, is uncertain, but its consequences have been similar to what was produced by the acid; an increased secretion of mucus fleshy mucus, producing the dull heavy pain, and a greater impossibility of completely evacuating the contents of the bladder. A part An increased portion of the urine therefore remains, to stagnate, and acquires great acrimony, as well as permitting the deposit increased deposit of the phosphates and as I should suppose encourages the deposition of the phosphates
Such, Sir, is my present state, and I am desirous of your further advice. Whether a smaller dose of the muriatic acid, as ten drops, which could not irritate the bladder, might do any thing to stop the deposit, - whether as Mr. Hayes thinks, distilled water impregnated with carbonic acid gas, mightwould better answer the purpose, - or whether upon consultation you may recommend think of some other remedy advisable, are points upon which I am desirous of your advice. If you could make it convenient to call tomorrow and would name the hour, Mr. Hayes should be informed and would meet you.
I am Sir,
Your very obedient servant
Mattw. Flinders
P.S. Fourcray and Vauquelin some years since gave an analysis and classification of calculi, and I understand spoke of the chemical remedies applicable to each class. Should you have this paper, you would much oblige me by permitting me the perusal
14 London Street May 23. 1814
Mr. Thos. Pitot - Mauritius
My dear friend
I am sorry to say that since my letter of April 26. by the Prince Regent, my disorder has become so much worse and is now at that today a consultation will be held upon the propriety of an immediate operation much worse, but so long as can sit five minutes at a time I must inform you of what has been done here.
After three days pleading, l'Industrie and Le'Prudent are confirmed to you according to the Cape Sentence, partly from oversights in the captor's proctor at the Cape. L'Eclair is yet in suspense, but I hope you will get the vessel and bullocks, and such slaves as were can be proved to have been purchased before the capitulation: the rest will certainly be lost. This is to be decided on the 28th., after which Messrs. Gostling will furnish me with the official documents and his bill; but I shall pay nothing for Le Prudent without your orders. Each party pays his own costs here
Dulau's have got the money for your bill of 100 dol. on St. Malo, and I have written to them to execute your commission and to send you some additional books; and I expect they
[Page 268]
Mr. Pitot
they will do it by Mr. Exshaw. The commission I gave them was executed by the P. Regent, and inclose their bill I expect Exshaw here today or tomorrow to take this letter, and I send you the papers up to this day, with some bills paid, and the present statement of your account, which is all I am able to accomplish.
May 28. Mr. E. has not sailed so soon as expected. He calls tomorrow, but I find as will Mr. Le Cornu, is now going back to Ma for my letters; but whether this last is returning to Mauritius I am not informed. I am sorry to say that my disorder has kept increasing. I have yet no further information from
Messrs. Gostling.
Your affectionate friend
Mattw. Flinders
Sent Mad. Haumont's letter of April 17. to M. Labauve
Captains Owen R.N.
Mrs. Flinders begs of Captain Owen to receive her best acknowledgments for his friendly letter, & the kind offer of service which it contains, should any circumstances arise, in which Captains Owen's assistance would be of benefit, Mrs. Flinders will not fail to recollect she has a friend in him, for she feels assured that as Capt. O - in some degree knew the excellency & exalted worth of the Treasure she has lost, he would if required assist the Widow, and the fatherless child of the friend he so much esteemed -
14 London Street
July 29th 1814
[Page 269]
you would have the goodness to let me know - I purpose remaining in London St. during the ensuing Winter -
I remain my dr. Sir
Your obliged Friend
Ann Flinders
To Capt. Stuart
5 Foley Street
To Mr. Thos. Pitot Isle of France
My dr Sir/
How much will your affectionate heart be grieved, when you shall be acquainted with the mournful intelligence of the death of my dear Husband, which took place on the 19th. of July last, after a painful & most distressing illness of five months - I need not attempt to describe to you, who in some measure knew his worth, what my emotions were in being deprived of such a Husband, such an invaluable friend, nor what I now & must ever feel fm. such a loss - in fact did I feel the deprivation a thousand times less than I do, language is so poor, that I could only speak of it in the same words - a character so exalted in every respect point of view, as he was, I never expect to behold again, & I trust I shall be pardoned when I say, that in comparison with him, the whole human race appears to my no doubt partial imagination, as drawn with inferior colors, & endowed with inferior intellectual powers - For more than twenty years, He was the Idol of my heart, the centre of my earthly happiness, & altho deprived of his dear society above nine years absence never for one moment weaned my affection, I must not however pursue this theme, but endeavour if possible to give you some little account of that malady which terminated a life so valuable, not only to myself but to society in general - A complaint in the bladder, the foundation of which, was no doubt laid during his confinement in the Isle of France, but which he had in a great measure got the better of, returned at intervals in the beginning of last Winter, brought on by unremitting attention to his work, an attention so close, that he neither allowed himself recreation, nor time for proper exercise, this sedentary mode of life totally under
[Page 270]
mined a constitution naturally good, and in Feb 3 he was seized with what was thought to be a severe fit of the stone, in the course of a few days the pain abated, but left a constant sense of uneasiness in the region of the bladder, medical aid was called in but Alas! to no good purpose, the disease gradually gained ground, & at length worn out by the effects of this most distressing malady, he sunk under it & fell a martyr to the service of his country, as much as tho' he had expired in battle - He just lived to know, the work over which his life had been spent was laid before the World, for he left this earthly scene of things, a few days after its publication - On being opened, his bladder was found in the most dreadful state of decay, the inner membrane was litterally torn to pieces shreds by an incalculable number of small crystals, which were found sticking in every part, the outer coat was become so thickened by inflamation & constant irritation that it was incapable of containing more than half a wine glass of fluid - In the last few weeks of his illness, had you seen your friend my dr. Sir, you would not have known your recognised him; so dreadfully was he altered, he looked full 70 years of age, & was worn to a Skeliton - Thus my dear Sir, I have given you some faint account of the last days of my departed, best loved friend, the recital has cost me many tears, have the goodness to communicate this part of the letter to M. Labauve, and Mr. C. Desbassayns, I would write to each of them, but I trust they will at present excuse me; I hope to have an opportunity of again sending letters to your island, at which period I shall send a duplicate of this, & also address a few lines to each of the above friends - With respect to the property my dear Husband left in the Isle of Fr- I have not as yet consulted the Trustees about it, but shall be able to give their opinion by the time I next write - About a month ago I recd, a bill of exchange for £500 from you, to defray the expenses of some articles relating to a printing office - I have consulted Mr. Nicol, the publisher of Capt. F-s voyage, who informs me that Mr. Bulmer the printer will undertake to execute the commission, and that in
[Page 271]
about two months, the order will be completed, & sent by the first opportunity - Mr. Nicol who is much impressed in your favor, from the great kindness you shewed to Capt. F- is very anxious that all your wishes should be gratified, & I have no doubt of all possible means being used to expedite the business - At the time I recd, the above bill, I also recd, the two quadruples fm. Mr. Du Campus Gold is fallen so much in value, since the former quadruples we had from you, that altho we got £4..10 for those, I have not been able to obtain more than £3..11.. for these - Your commission for harp strings & Music, shall be executed to the best of my power, & sent along with the implements of printing - I must however depend solely on the Music sellers, having no knowledge myself in those articles - I also purpose sending the writings which are in my possession, relative to the trials of two vessels, which Capt. F- settled for, with Messrs. Gostlings in June - Capt. F- then paid £183..17..7, being the balance for these ships, the account of one vessel he left unsettled, shod you wish it to be paid, I will when I receive your orders so to do, settle it with Mr. Gostling, out of the money which remained in the hands of Capt. F- which amounts to £215 - Since Since He sent your account, I have paid £1..12..6, for 3 months of the Times Newspapers; so long as I remain in London, I will continue to take them for you, & remit them by every opportunity I can find, but my dr. Sir, I must charge you with the whole expense, being now too poor to take a part - I expect to remain where I now am, during the ensuing Winter, until I can get some affairs settled after which period, where I shall fix my abode, I at present know not, but any letters you may please to favor me with, will reach me if put under cover to Mr. Brine No 3 Cliffords Inn London - At the time the printing implements are sent, Mr. Nicol purposes to remit you a few copies of the publication of the voyage, thinking it probable that they will sell in your Island; one copy will be sent for acceptance according to the wish of my late dear Husband, & agreeable to his Will, a mourning Ring will also be forwarded to you, there will be a copy of the work & Rings also for M Labauve & M Desbassayns - I must now draw to a conclusion, requesting you to accept the highest esteem & regard of a heart, grateful for the unremitting kindness you shewed to my late dear, dear
[Page 272]
Husband, when arresting under the power of disappointment cruelty & oppression, the memory of your friendship for him, will rest upon my heart, so long as existance is permitted me - Believe that I have real gratification in signing myself your gratefully
Obliged friend
14 London Street Ann Flinders
Sept. 19th. 1814
To Capt. F. Stuart, 5 Foley Place
My dear Sir
I send you the naval chronicle, as I understand you wished to have one, in the Portrait, you will not be able to trace much of your departed friend - the Miniature from which it was taken, is but an indifferent likeness, & the Engraver has not done justice to it, he has given the firmness of the countenance, but not the intelligence or animation - I have found one paper respecting the variation of the compass, of which I beg your acceptance, & also of the snuff box which accompanies this, wear it my dr. Sir in memory of him who brought it from the Isle of France, & who long used it, I need not bid you value it for his sake, I know you will, because you valued his many virtues & rare talents - I take the liberty to return you the magnetic stone, you kindly gave your friend, it may possibly be valued by you - Begging you to offer my compliments to your worthy Hostess, whose name I do not know -
I remain with much esteem,
Your sincere Friend
Ann Flinders
14 London Street
Octr. 16th. 1814
[Page 273]
To G Nicol Esqre. Pall Mall
My dr. Sir
Allow me to offer you my best acknowledgements for the interest you take in what concerns myself & child - I would have set forward to Pall Mall on the receipt of your kind letter, to have thanked you in person, but on second thoughts I prefer addressing you by the pen, as when my feelings are much wrote upon, I find it easier to express them in writing, than by word of mouth, the power of utterance being often denied me - I must confess that I have felt no small degree of anxiety, since I recd. yours the other evening, & I beg of yours to be assured that I feel highly grateful, not only for the application you have made, but for your kind consideration in making me so immediately acquainted with the result- As Sir J. Bk- appears to take a lively interest in the affair, I perfectly agree with you, that the matter had better rest until his return from Lincolns. & you may be assured that the utmost secrecy shall be observed on the subject - Could you not have consulted Sir J.B- I think Mr. Murdoch woud, have been a very proper person, he know Capt. F- personally, & I have heard the latter speak with pleasure of the conversation he has sometimes had with that Gent at Sir Josephs on a Sunday evening - The Bill of Exchange I have recd, fm. Mr. Pitot, is drawn on the Lords Comssns. of the Treasury, I have never presented it, having no knowledge how to proceed in the business, I am not without some apprehension that the payment of it may be refused, on account of Capt. F-s discease, but as I am totally unacquainted with matters of this kind, I may be mistaken - I enclose it to your care, & request your advice about it - With best compliments to yourself, Mrs. Nicol, & Miss Wilson, in which my Sister begs to unite, I remain my dr. Sir
Your greatly obliged
& Obt Sert
Ann Flinders
14 London St.
August 30th. 1814
[Page 274]
To Mr. Hursthouse Tidd St. Mary's
14 London St. Novr. 1st. 1814
Dear Sir/
I feel it proper to inform you of what has been done respecting the will of my late dear Husband, since I had the pleasure of seeing you in Town - I proved the said Will at Drs. Commons about six weeks ago, which cost near £70.. since then I have called in the debts, & having made an estimate of the same, Mr. Brine according to the usual forms, registered the Will at the Bank, in order to sell out what was necessary to discharge the debts, & I was informed that, by attending personally with him, I might as Executrix & Administratrix sell out what was sufficient for that purpose, without being at the expense of Powers of Attorney from you & Mr. Newbald, or giving you any trouble about it - I shall give you a list of the debts at the close of this - I recd, the dividend the beginning of this month, which of course I must appropriate to the support of the child & myself, & I trust I shall have your permission to receive the dividend due next April, for the same purpose - my pension is but £90.. a year, & when the property tax, & the Agents commission is deducted, it will not be more than eighty - Now as I cannot very well leave London until the affairs are some what settled, & I can gain some information respecting the probable profits of the publication, you will readily perceive that I shall require the whole of the interest from the funds, to enable me to get on, I therefore feel assured that yourself & Mr. Newbald will accede to my proposal - Mr. Flinders informs me that it is your opinion, the property in the Isle of F- had better be removed from thence - with respect to the Cattle I think myself that they had best be disposed of, & the produce remitted to England, as they are not of much advantage, in fact I dare say Mr. Labauve, the person who has the management of them, will in all probability as matters now are, relinquish his charge - Respecting the money at Bourbon, I am of a different opinion, it is in the hands of a very particular friend of Capt. Flinders', one who I am confident will take as much care for the Child, as he did for the Father, it is placed out at 12 per cent, & on undeniable securities, with which Capt. F- was perfectly satisfied, & I know it was
[Page 275]
his intentions that it shod, remain where it is, interest upon interest, until the Child becomes of age, it would then make something handsome for her - in my opinion it would be folly to take it from a place where it is gaining 12 per cent to bring it here, where 5 per cent would be the utmost it could gain, I therefore deam it far more eligible that it shod, remain where it is, at lest until such time as the Child may require the interest towards her education - I can by no means accede to Mr. Flinders' proposal, of making the offer to Mr. Nicol which he mentions, I do not feel myself authorized to do anything of the kind, more especially as Sir J. B- is out of Town, & I shod, never take such a step, nor indeed any in this affair, without first consulting him whom I have reason to look upon as one of my best friends - What number of copies have been sold, I do not at present know, but I dare say Mr. Nicol will inform me from time to time, how matters go on, & I do not wish to interfere or be troublesome - There is one thing more I wish to mention before I conclude - it appears pretty evident to me, that when all the legacies, with Mrs. F-s annuity and my own, are deducted from the property, there cannot be above £40 a year at the most remaining for the maintainance of the Child, & I hope yourself and Mr. Newbald will not object to my receiving the whole of this for her support, for when all expences are taken into consideration, you will easily perceive that I cannot do justice to her in every respect with a less sum - as the period of education advances, I must of course supply a good deal from my own purse, therefore it seems but equitable, that I shod, receive the little there is at present - When I consider these matters I cannot help condemning myself that I had not courage to talk with my dear Capt. F- on the subject of his Will, if I had as matters now are, I well know every thing would have been left to the support of the Child & myself, but when he made that Will, it was meant merely as a set of memorandums, to be altered as circumstances arose to require it - I shall be glad to be favored with your opinion on all these matters as soon as convenient, more especially as I expect shortly to have an opportunity of writing to the Isle of France - I beg my best compts. to Mrs. Hursthouse and remain my dr. Sir
Your sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Shod, Mr. Flinders be still with you, I will thank you to tell him I recd, his letter, but I have so much to do and to think about, that he must excuse me answering it -
[Page 276]Debts paid there with as follow
| Mourning for Child, Servant & Self | 17 | - |
| Funeral Expenses | 46 | - |
| Apothecary's bill | 30 | - |
| Tailors & Grocers bills | 5 | 5 |
| Rent & Wages | 19 | 10 |
| Mr. Brine | 20 | - |
| Seltezer Water | 3 | 3 |
| Mourning Rings | 14 | 6 |
| Will proving | 69 | - |
| 204 | 4 |
To Admiral Linois at Paris
Sir/
I recd. a short time ago from Messrs. Pitot of the Isle of France, the enclosed letter for you, as also a bill of exchange for £100, drawn on Mr. G. Watt - No 80 Coleman Street, there is also 27..15..11 interest on £400 - at Messrs. Wilson, Agassey & Co. which Capt. Flinders was requested to obtain for you, His death which took place about four months since is the cause why I address you on these matters - I shall take particular care of the bills, until I hear from you what your wishes are concerning them - Perhaps you are acquainted with some confidential person in England whom you could empower to call on me for them & procure the money - My present abode is No 14 London Street, Fitzroy Square, where I expect to remain three months longer, any letter addressed to me at that place will find me - Sir I have the honor to be your Obt Sert.
Ann Flinders
14 London Street
Novr. 30th. 1814
[Page 277]
To Mr. Adams Transport Office
[Page 278]
To Mr. Brine
I was in some measure my dr. Sir prepared for the contents of your letter, by what I had before been informed of, but must confess the full extent of Mr. F-s request to your clerk surprised me much, I know him pretty well, but was not proposed for such excessive meaness of character not to say dishonesty, as this conduct evinces, after such a step as the attempting to lead your servant from his duty, what may I not expect from him, it appears therefore to me to be highly necessary that the other two Trustees shod, be informed of his proceedings on this subject, & I shall hope for your permission so to do; if you desire it, I will certainly take no notice to Mr. F- that I know of it, but at the same time, I think he shod, be informed that you have been told the circumstance, the young man is to be commended for the Manner in which he has acted, & he ought to be praised for it before Mr. F- & I think if you were to tell him at once, that such things could not be permitted in your office, the matter would be settled, & you would be rid of a very troublesome visitant - I could much wish my dr. Sir, that when you have leisure, you would take the trouble to send over the Will of my late dear Husband - you would from a thorough investigation of it, plainly see that he has no right to meddle with anything relating to the affairs, I can assure you his brother had very good reasons for not leaving him either executor or Trustee, he had indeed particular reasons for acting as he did in that matter -
Decr. 5th. 1814
[Page 280]
He went last week to the office of Mr Brine, and desired one of the Clerks "to let him see all & every letter, which shod, arrive directed for his brother, before they were forwarded to me, as he expected one, the hand writing of which he shod, know, & would open it, & afterwards convey it to me" - To account for this proceeding, it is necessary my dr. Sir to make you acquainted with the manner in which Capt. F- has by will disposed of his little property - There is in the Isle of France about £500, this with what he possessed here, after the payment of some few legacies and an annuity of£55.. a year to myself, goes to the Child, but should she die before she becomes of age, it is to be divided amongst Capt. F-s relatives, Lt. F- having one fourth part - He has been anxious that the property in the Isle of France, shod, be brought over, & invested in the funds, that he might I suppose have an opportunity of inspecting it, this I do not agree to, as where it is, it gains 12 per cent, and it was Capt. F-s intention, that it shod, remain there until the child becomes of age, accumulating interest upon interest - To gain a knowledge respecting this property has I imagine been the motive that has induced Mr. F- to the commission of the meaness above mentioned - & whilst he can act thus, what may I not expect fm. him? And this my dr. Sir leads me to speak of the profits which may arise from the publication in your hands, I am perfectly confident that whatever part the Admiralty & Sir J. B- may think good to adjudge to me, that unless I have it officially notified from them, that it is given to myself, shod, anything happen the Child before she comes of age, Mr. F- would do all in his power to wrest every farthing of it fm. me, which could he do, would be a peculiar hardship, for putting out of the question my small annuity of £55.. surely I ought to enjoy whatever benefit may arise from a voyage the prosecution of which has been a source of constant unhappiness to me, and to which in the end my beloved husband died a Martyr - Do you not think, that by making Sir J. B- acquainted with the circumstances
[Page 281]
he might be induced to interest himself so far in my behalf as to obtain from the Lords of the Admiralty an official document, that what part of the profits, they might please to direct for my woe, should be my own - Your consideration and opinion on this affair, will be esteemed a peculiar favor - If I have not been sufficiently explicit, & there are any questions you may wish to ask - I will wait on you with much pleasure at any time you may appoint - Knowing my dr. Sir that you are ever the friend of the Widow & the fatherless, I lay my affairs before you without apology, being assured that you will forgive this new trouble - With best respects to yourself, Mrs. N- and Miss Wilson, in which I am joined by my Mother and Sister - I remain your greatly obliged
Ann Flinders
14 London St.
Decr. 7th. 1814
[Page 282]
some Newspapers to you, as also letters to Messrs. Chas. Desbassayns & Labauve - I now send to you thro' the means of Messrs. Henckell & Du Brisson, three months Newspapers, with some Harp strings & Music for that Instrument, I was not able to get much of either [indecipherable] or Marino music, the latter is not esteemed as fashionable at present - what I have sent, I procured at one of the first music shops in London, and I am assured that they are the most approved pieces of the day - I shall send to you all the flute music I can find, which belonged to Capt. Flinders, some of which he purchased since he returned to England - The letters & bills of exchange for Messrs. Henckell & Co, I gave into their hands, so soon as I recd, them, I have also sent the others to their destinations which have since reached me, likewise all those for France, the letters for Admiral Linois are gone to Paris thro' the means of Mr. Adam at the Transport office to whom I wrote for information respecting the Admiral, he informed me, that orders were issued in June last, for the liberation of that Gentm. and he did not doubt but he had availed himself of them - the bills for him on Messrs. Wilson & Co and on Mr. Watts are in my possession -
Your account my dr. Sir with me, I think stands thus - after the payment to Messrs. Gostling of 183..17..7 there remained in my hands £215..12..6 - since then I have recd, for two quadruples £7..2.. - and from the funds £4..10.. - which makes £228..4..6 - from this I deduct as follows -
| July 3d. | 3 Months Newspapers | 1..12..6 |
| Sept. 23d. | Postage of letters | ..6.. 10 |
| Octr. 6th. | 3 Months Newspapers | 2.. 5.. 6 |
| Novr. 4th. | Harp Strings & Music | 4..18.. |
| 18 | Postage for Admiral L | .. 4.. 3 |
| Decr. 1st. | Do for Mr. Froberville | .. 4.. 2 |
| 12 | Do Mr. Sauveget | .. 5.. 3 |
| Do Messrs. Pitot | ..10.. 11 | |
| Narrative of the Russian campaign | ..10 ..6 | |
| Political Reflections | .. 6 .. | |
| 15 | Postage for Madam Sauveget | .. 3 ..4 |
| £11 ..7 ..3 |
[Page 283]
There is still more postage than what I have put down here, but I cannot tell what it is until I get Mr. Brine's acct. leaving it out of the question, there remains in my hands about £216..17..3 - Your order for books I have given to Mr. Nicol, with whom I will settle for them, when he has sent them to you, which I expect he will do, when he sends out the copies of the voyage - I have ventured to purchase for you the two books mentioned in the foregoing account, thinking they would be very interesting to you, you would probably have prefered them in the original language, this did not occur to me when I ordered them - Since I last addressed you I have consulted the Trustees respecting the little property Capt. F- left in the Isles of France & Bourbon - they are of opinion that the cattle under Mr. S-s care had best be disposed of, and the amount remitted to England by the first safe opportunity - you perhaps would have no objections, to receiving the value of them, and allowing me to deduct it, from the money of yours in my hands, this would save the trouble of remitting it - The Money in Bourbon we are of opinion had best remain where it is, some time longer, shod, Mr. D- kindly consent to continue his charge of it - I have written to him requesting this favor of him, as also that he will have the goodness to send me a yearly account in english, this favor I must also beg of you, when you are so obliging as to write, for I do not understand the french language - There is one circumstance I feel it necessary to mention to you, as I shall do also to Messrs. D- & L-e, Mr F- the brother of Capt. F- is I am sorry to observe, a character widely differing from your late friend, & one whom I find inclined to be very troublesome, he is I believe greatly mortified, at not being left Executor, but his brother had very sufficient reasons for cutting him off from all concerns in his affairs, it is very possible he may write to you, but it is not necessary that you shod, render any account of the little property left in your Islands by Capt. F- to any person save myself, or to Messrs. Newbald & Hursthouse, who are joined Trustees with me, nor in fact to them, unless the request is signed by me also, I have the power to act with either, or both of them in the affairs, but they cannot act without me - I am the more particular in stating this, because I think it not improbable that Mr. F- may write to you in the names of the other Trustees - My little darling Girl
[Page 284]
grows much and is become very entertaining, she is if you can credit the word of a Mother, very active & intelligent, she often reminds me of her dear father, the upper part of her face being very like his, and I flatter myself she will inherit his noble integrity of character, & the amiability of his disposition, She is perfectly familiar with your name & very often talks of writing to Mr. Thomy Pitot -
I remain etc.
Ann Flinders
14 London St
Decr 15th. 1814 Sent by Messrs. Henckell & Co
[Page 285]
books you forward - You will not my dr. Sir forget the three copies of the voyage, to be sent as presents for Mr. Pitot, Mr. Charles Desbassayns & Mr. Paul Labauve - My Mother & Sister unite in best compts. My little Anne will I am sure be happy in your notice of her, and I flatter myself she has sufficient intelligence, to be able soon to distinguish such a friend - With much respect my dr. Sir
I remain your ever obliged
Ann Flinders
14 London St
Decr. 18th. 1814
[Page 286]
the Times Newspaper for you, & remit them by every opportunity - Letters addressed for me, to the care of Robert Brine Esqre. No. 3 Cliffords Inn London, will reach me in safety wherever I may be - You have long before this I hope, received safe the Harp, which was sent in May last - I remain my dr. Sir with much respect & esteem yours very sincerely
Ann Flinders
14 London St
Decr. 20th. 181 4
[Page 287]
and kindest regards to Madm. D- & I hope that your little family is quite well - My dear Anne becomes daily more entertaining, she is remarkably active & very intelligent - Since writing the foregoing, your few lines respecting the bale of coffee has reached me - Oh that He to whom your kind present was sent, were a witness of this mark of your friendship, but I humbly trust he is infinitely happier in a better World than this, such a thought is my only consolation - Any letters addressed for me to the care of Robert Brine Esqre. No. 3 Cliffords Inn London, will reach me in safety - Where I shall in future reside, I do not at present know, it is my intention to quite London so soon as my affairs will allow, as my finances are very inadequate to living in Town, where every article of life is so expensive - With the highest respect & esteem I am my dr. Sir
Your very sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Decr. 20th. 1814
London St.
[Page 288]
London so soon as the nature of my affairs will permit, the state of my finances not allowing me to continue in a place so very expensive - -
I request of you to present my best respects to Madame Labauve, as also to every branch of the D'Arifat family, for all of whom my heart ever feels the most lively esteem & gratitude, their attention to my dear Captain Flinders during his long captivity will never be effaced from my remembrance - Should I be favored in hearing from you, let me beg of you to write in english, as I do not understand the french language -
With every sentiment of respect I am dear Sir
Your obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
London St. Decr 20th. 1814
[Page 289]
information from them, as they are all written in french and I am sure he knows nothing of that language, he might have done much mischief had he got them, as they relate in general to mercantile affairs, between some gents of the Isle of France, & some merchants in the City, & often contain bills of exchange to the amount of some hundreds; now I know he durst not have brought me an open letter, he must consequently have destroyed them -, I understand that it is his intention, if he has not already done it, to write to you & Mr. N- requesting that you will both administer, that I may not have so much under my control - What is there that he can be so much afraid of, I have done nothing but pay the debts, which it was proper to do, & when once the legacies are paid, there is nothing more can be sold out, & I am sure it is not my wish to have any particular control in the business, some person must undertake to do it, and if by being on the spot & attending personally I can get thro' it without troubling you or Mr. N- to come on purpose, it certainly must be better, besides it is saving the expence of powers of Atty. and I am sure it is our duty to save every shilling were there is so little - The chief causes of Mr. F-s conduct I take to be these, he is exceedingly mortified at not being left an executor, & his excessive love of money makes him fearful that I might act unjustly, and in case the Child shod, die, he shod, not get enough - With respect to his not being an executor, my dear Husband had sufficient & particular reasons for cutting him off from all power in his affairs, he never meant that he shod, have the least concern in them, and as such, he has no right whatever to interfere, of this he must be aware, or he would not act in such an underhanded manner, but Money is his idol & where it is concerned, he sacrifices both honor and principle, or he could never have done such an action as I have mentioned - He will I suppose plead his extreme anxiety for the child, as his motive for such conduct, at this I can only smile & ask which is the most likely to feel the deepest interest for her welfare, a Mother, or an Uncle who would be benifitted by her death?- it requires no deep sagacity to reply - He is I believe angry too that the legacies are not paid, being of course unacquainted, that it is not necessary to pay them under twelve months, unless a shorter period is
[Page 290]
is specified in the Will of the disceased, & I believe also that shod, any of the legaties die in the intrim their legacy lapses, except where it is entailed on their children - I have surely my dr. Sir misery enough to contend with, in being deprived of one of the most exalted of human beings, without being made [indecipherable]constantly uneasy by the intermeddling and underhand ways of one, who is in every respect a striking contrast to him whom I have lost - Mr. Newbald to whom I wrote at the time I addressed you concerning the money at Bourbon, agrees with me, that has Capt. F- was perfectly satisfied with the security & the interest being so good, that it was best it shod, be remain where it is, and as I heard nothing from you to the contrary I concluded it was your opinion also, and have written accordingly to Mr. D- to that purpose, Altho the will allows me to act with either of the Trustees, as it may happen to suit, yet I had much rather have the opinion of both in every thing I do concerning the affairs - I shall beg to be favored with an answer to this letter, with your advice & opinion respecting the behaviour of Mr. F- I have also made Mr. N- acquainted with it -
I remain Sir
Ann Flinders
London St
Decr. 28th. 1814
[Page 291]
possession, & I am inclined to think that the interest of many will rise in Bourbon in consequence - If however it is the fixed opinion of Mr. Newbald and yourself, that the interest of the money there had best be remitted hither yearly, I shall undoubtedly order it so to be done, when I write again, for I have no desire to act in the least contrary to what may be deemed proper by the other Trustees -Your wishes shall be strictly complied with in every respect, and a correct account given to you prior to the end of the twelve months, respecting the property, I shall rely on your and Mr. Newbalds liberality respecting the allowance for the child, I would wish however that you would both take into consideration that as matters are left, my case is peculiarly hard, & had my dear Captain F- seen his danger, he would never have left me in such a situation, with neither a bed nor a chair to call my own; his attention was particularly bent to the concluding the voyage, without ever reverting to his own concerns, otherwise he would have provided for our comfort without leaving so much to others, out of his little property, and as his friends will come in for the whole shod, anything happen to the child, before she is of age, I cannot see it at all necessary to lay by a few pounds yearly to benefit them - You express some surprise that I shod, have sold out of the funds without your consent, I did not myself suppose that I could do it, until I was told at the Bank that I might, & as I felt particularly anxious that the debts shod, be paid as soon as possible, I did not therefore hesitate to transact the business *- Since I last addressed you, I got my Mother to explain to Mr. Flinders the reason why he was received with so much coolness here; in reply to the accusation about the letters, he said he never intended to take any but what were for himself, and that he expected a letter from Wisbeach which would be directed to him as Capt. Flinders, for many people did address him in that manner, this may for what I know be the case, & had he not threatened to the writing to the Trustees, considering at the same time that I was not a proper person to be trusted alone with the care of the Child, I might possibly have received the foregoing excuse as a paliative of his conduct, but as it is, there can be but one opinion of his sincerity - I do not wish to take any further notice to him of the affair, as it would only subject me to be teazed with many letters from him,
[Page 292]
and I know but too well from past experience the extreme unpleasantness of his correspondence when out of humour - I wish my dr. Sir to have your opinion with respect to the Monuments to be put up in Donington Church, I think of expending £10.. each for the marble slabs to be put up for the three Ancestors of Capt. F- & having them executed at Boston - the one for Himself I would take £50 for, & have it executed in London, this would leave £20 for the expence of carte. & fixing up, as also for Mr. Wilson's fee, which I suppose he woud. of course expect - if this measure meets your & Mr. N-s approbation, I will write to Mr. Dodd & request him to superintend those to be done at Boston - With respect to the inscriptions, the Will directs that I shod, consult with Mr. F- about them if you deem this necessary, I will trouble you to desire him to write what he pleases on the subject and let me have it - I do not pay the postage of my letters to you, because there is £20 left to each of the other Trustees purposely to repay them any expence they may be at in the affairs -
*More especially as I had recd. Mr. Newbald's consent so to do, in a letter I have by me, bearing date the 20th. of Sepr. in which he says "You will do perfectly right to sell out of the funds as much as will pay your debts" -
London St
Jany. 11th. 1815
[Page 293]
To Lieut. Dale
My dr. Sir
Altho you have not left London St. more than a quarter of an hour, I cannot rest satisfied a moment until I have offered an apology for my apparently excessive rudeness to you. The recollections of the last time I had the pleasure of seeing you, and in whose dear society it was, so fully occupied my imagination, that when you were gone, & my Mother and Sister told me, that I had never asked you to take any refreshment altho the luncheon stood on the table, nor had I introduced them to you, I was utterly astonished, & shocked beyond measure, what in the world could you think to such conduct? I would not on any account have been guilty of such rudeness to even the most common acquaintance, much less to one who possessed so large a share of the esteem of my ever to be lamented Husband - Pray pardon this shameful omission of politeness, & be assured that nothing but the mind being fully occupied by a most melancholy subject, could have caused such a want of hospitality - With best wishes for the perfect restoration of your good Father's health & best compliments to Mrs. Dale & your Sisters, I remain dr. Sir yours with much respect and concern for my apparent rudeness
Ann Flinders
14 London St.
Jany. 30th. 1815
[Page 294]
that head, for it is now seven months since the discease of my dear Husband? - My Motive for asking the question is this - The state of my finances forbids a much longer continuance in the Metropolis, I find I must quit it in about two months, and seek in the country a less expensive abode, but in the present uncertainty (whether I may be favored with an addition to my pension or not) I am a loss to know, where to fix myself, or in what manner, as on such an addition would depend many comforts, of which otherwise I must be deprived -
Shall I trouble you my dear Sir to send me Mr. Pitot's account, for the books he ordered, and which I will take the first opportunity to discharge - I should also be much obliged by a statement of the expenses etc relating to the printing presses, that I may send out a duplicate to Mr. Pitot when I next write, which I expect will not be long first - I should not be greatly surprised if we were to have the pleasure of seeing Him in England before the end of the year, as I understand from a gentleman who saw him last summer, that he meditated such a step in the event of Peace -
My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in best respects to Yourself, Mrs. Nicol & Miss Wilson, & I beg of you at all times to believe me
Yours gratefully obliged
Ann Flinders
14 London St
Feb 22 1815
[Page 295]
There are two motives which urge me to take the step; the first is, the very straitened income I possess, Straitened indeed in these expensive times - the second is the assurance that Mr. Flinders presuming on the merits of his brother, is about to solicit the Admiralty in his own behalf - I by no means wish to prevent him from receiving either promotion or emolument, but I am led to hope that the Widow & Child of a brave & useful officer, would have a prior claim on their munificence - I am well aware that the Lords of the Admiralty, are at all times fearful of establishing presidents, but as Mrs. Cook recd, this favor, I would willingly hope the same kind consideration might be extended to me - The claims of Captain Flinders were certainly far fm. being equal to those of Captain Flinders Cook, but his misfortunes and sufferings were greater, & altho he died in his native land, he certainly fell a victim to the service of his country, his extreme anxiety to complete the work in which he had engaged, led him for the last two years of his existance, to deprive himself of both proper rest, & proper exercise, & thus a most painful disorder, the foundations of which being laid in his cruel captivity, gained so powerfully upon his constitution that it baffled all the efforts of medicine - But I am fearful of trespassing too long, may I then beg the favor Sir of your opinion on this subject? a subject of great importance to me, & shod, you judge the step an advisable one, might I hope for your influence and support in it? -
I have the honour to be Sir
with the highest respect
& consideration your most Obt Sert
Ann Flinders
14 London Street
March 7th. 1815
[Page 296]
To Mrs. Jerram Chatham
My dear Mrs. Jerram
I cannot let my Sister depart for Chatham without sending a few lines from your early friend - Many years have passed away many painful circumstances have taken place, since you & I bade farewell to each other; we were then entering on the world, gay with hope, & in the anticipation of happiness, we indulged in all the romantic ideas of a youthful fancy respecting - Yours has been a flowery path, tho' undoubtedly mixed with some few thorns, for perfect bliss is not allowed us here - Mine has been a path of ruggedness & sorrow, but I trust afflictions have been blessed, & have been a means in the hands of unerring wisdom to shew me the World in its true colors - the last & most painful stroke of chastisment which I have been called to endure, has indeed laid me low in the dust, and changed all my views as to this life, never before did I see mutability so plainly written on all below the skies - only that almighty God who hath seen right to take from me the Staff on which I Ieaned for happiness, be pleased to enable me to fix my earnest desires & affections on himself - After many months of much distress, I am daring to look forward for some degree of comfort in your society, & in the retirement which Providence in mercy seems to have allotted us at Chatham, & altho our abode may bear the name of the Vicarage, shod, our heavenly father & saviour bless us with his presence there, it will ever be designated by me as the Refuge - when in the present scene of bustle & confusion, I can for a moment or two reflect, I am filled with wonder at the turnings & leadings of Providence, it appears strange indeed that after a lapse of so many years, & so long an absence you & I shod, again as it were reside together; may our friendship ripen here, & be perfected in that blessed region where pain & parting never come - Time & many sorrows have wrought much alteration
[Page 297]
in your friend, I am pretty certain were you to meet me unexpectedly, you would not have the least recollection of me, & I give you this hint, that you may not exclaim at our meeting, "is it possible this can be Chappell"! - Accept my affectionate remembrance & present my kind respects to Mr. Jerram, to whom we are already under so many obligations -
I remain my dear Mrs. Jerram
Sincerely Yours
Ann Flinders
14 London St.
May 9th. 1815
[Page 298]
& regret, when you shall be informed of the sudden & unfortunate turn of affairs in France; Many are lost in astonishment, whilst others declare, it was just what might have been expected from the clemency shewn to the Tyrant - I have two or three times requested Mr. Nicol to furnish me with the account respecting the printing press etc, but he has been so much occupied lately, that I have not yet recd, it fm. him, he tells me it has taken more money than he remitted, altho he sent less paper than you requested, that article is particularly expensive here - should I receive the accounts from him I will enclose them with this, if not I will transmit them by the next opportunity I meet with - Since I last wrote to you, Dulau & Co, have sent me in a bill of £1..-..- for shipping a box to you in July 1813, they missed sending it in with the proper account in Sepr. when the books were paid for - I am quite at a loss what to do with the bills you sent for Admiral Linois, I forwarded the letter to Paris in Novr. last, but have recd, no intelligence of, or from the Admiral, the bills are still in my possession -
I have lately had some conversation with the other Trustees respecting the money in Mr. C. Desbassayn's hands; they are inclined to think it would be better to have the interest remitted yearly to England, pray what is your opinion? & also what is Mr. Desbassayns on the subject? I promised Messrs. Hursthouse & Newbald to mention it to you when I next wrote - - The Coffee my dr. Sir, your kind & liberal present, has at length (thro' the unwearied
[Page 299]
perseverance of Mr. Brine & his Clerks) been obtained from those sharks the revenue officers at the Water-side, who strove hard, by giving every possible degree of trouble, to obtain it as a booty for themselves, it is excellent in flavor, but every cup I take of it, is tinctured with sorrow & regret, the cause I need not tell - Accept a double portion of thanks and gratitude for it - When I receive Mr. Nicol's account, if I find what money of yours remaining in my hands will discharge it, I will settle the business with him when I come to London in July, which I must do on my own affairs -
I remain my dear Sir
with every possible degree
of respect, your obliged
& sincere friend
Ann Flinders
14 London St.
April 17th. 1815
To Mr. Thos. Pitot Mauritius
May 15th. from London I trust, the letter given in charge to Mr Panon Desbassayns
[Page 300]
My dear Madam
I feel myself particularly obliged to you & Mr. Henckell, for your very kind invitation to Wandsworth, & also for the interest you take about my little orphan Girl, I am happy to say she enjoys very good health in general, but is looking pale at present as she usually does in warm weather - The settlement of some affairs of a painful nature, will call me to Town in the course of a fortnight, & shod, my many engagements permit, during my short stay there, a visit to Wandsworth would afford me real pleasure, altho not unmixed with distressing sensations, as everything there would serve to recall the inestimable Treasure I have been deprived of, but this subject will not bear enlargement - - I flatter myself that Mr. Henckell is restored returned from Bath much benefitted by his visit there, Will you have the goodness to present him my best respects, & I beg to inform him that I have recd, letters from Mr. Thos. Pitot of the Mauritius, in which he requests me to pay into the hands of Henckell & Duboisson, the money which remains with me, due to him, this I purpose doing when in Town - I beg of you my dear Madam to accept my best acknowledgements, for your friendly attention; & to offer my kind compliments to Miss Henckell & Miss Caroline - I remain with sentiments of respect & esteem your greatly obliged
Ann Flinders -
Vicarage Chatham July 8th. 1815
To Mrs. Henckell - Wandsworth Common
My dear Sir/
About a fortnight ten days ago I was favored with your kind & friendly letter, the painful subject of it which, drew forth many more tears than usual, for altho they daily flow as the remembrance of the Treasure I have forever lost presses on my heart, yet when the chord of Sorrow is touched by the hand of friendship, Recollections paints
[Page 301]
To Mr. Thos. Pitot
My dear Sir
Your kind & obliging letter of the 21st of last Jan, reached me about three weeks ago, I beg of you to accept my best thanks for it & also for the very friendly offers of service it contains. I was well aware from the mutual regard which subsisted between you & my beloved Husband, that you would feel sincere grief & distress when the melancholy tidings of his loss should reach you -You who were in a measure acquainted with the many virtues, & inestimable qualities he possessed, will best apreciate the worth of the Treasure I have lost, & you will easily imagine [indecipherable] that were the whole Universe at my command, it could afford no compensation, & even the tenderest sympathy of the truest friend avails but little in a case of such severe trial & affliction - You will not be surprised when I say that sorrow continually circles round my heart & tears are my daily companions; 'tis true the company of my little Girl soothes & cheers many an hour that would otherwise pass most heavily away, but Life has lost its chief charm, & the World appears a dreary wilderness of woe to me, but forgive my dear Sir this melancholy strain, I have touched a chord which can only vibrate to the notes of woe - I hasten on to other things of which I must inform you - - I have written five letters to you prior to this, three of which I flatter myself you have received some time ago, by them you will have learned that it is the wish of the Trustees of my late Husbands will, that the Cattle should be sold, & as Mr. Labauve wishes it also, you will have the goodness to dispose of them, & remit the produce to me when convenient - I beg of you to offer my best respects to M. Labauve with a thousand thanks for his kindness & consideration & liberallity in foregoing his share of the profits, this however I think is not justice to himself, & as such I am not altogether satisfied that he shoud, do it, I must however leave it with him, to do as he pleases,
[Page 302]
I wrote to him on the subject of the cattle in Decr. last, & also to Mr. C. Desbassayns respecting the property left with him, from his letter to you, & from what you say about it, I feel perfectly satisfied that it shod, remain where it is - The other Trustees & I shod, rather that the interest were placed to the principal for some time to come, but as I mentioned in my last, the other Trustees seem to wish that the interest should be remitted yearly to England; if this should be done perhaps the person who has it, may be inclined to give it up - I shall think myself particularly obliged if you will consult with Mr. C. D- on the subject, & give me your opinion, about it - - You have I shod, hope ere this recd, letters from Messrs. Morris & Renny, into whose hands I put all the accounts respecting the trials in the Court of Admiralty, being ordered so to do by a Power of Atty. from your House; since then I have paid several other things, of which I have sent accounts from time to time - I shall according to your request pay into the hands of Messrs. H & D- what remains due to you - Since April there has been no interest upon it, being obliged to sell it out then of the funds at that time, before I left Town, under the expectation it might be called for 'ere I visited London again if you should find any little error in the accounts great ones I hope there are none, I trust you will pardon it, indeed I assure myself that you will when I tell you [indecipherable]that I have had a multiplicity of affairs I have had to attend to & get thro' since I lost my heart's chief Treasure, & some of them of a very perplexing & painful nature - It has occasioned me much uneasiness that the business of the printing presses could not be expedited sooner, I hope by this time the Sir Stephen Lushington has reached the Isle of F- & that you have recd, all safe; Mr. Nicol sent out at the same time several copies of the Voyage, one as a present for yourself, the & others for Mr. Labauve & Mr. C. D- there were also mourning rings for the same; it will afford me great satisfaction real pleasure to hear that you they have reached you, & that the printing implements give satisfaction - Your bills of exchange for Admiral Linois are still in my possession, I found by the newspapers last week, that He is now Governor of Gaudaloupe, 'tis therefore no wonder I have not been able to find him that I have heard nothing from him, I enclosed one of your letters to him at Paris many months ago;
[Page 303]
I shall send up the bills & letter & give them in charge to Messrs. H- & D- next week, when I expect to be in London, finally to settle my dear Husband's affairs - I shall also leave this letter with the account in their hands to be forwarded to you by the first opportunity - Will you have the goodness when you favor me with a letter, to write in english, as I do not understand french, & should my sister be absent when I receive letters from you, I should be greatly at a loss, she is my interpretor - I beg of you to offer my kind respects to every member of your family and also to those of the D'Arifats, the remembrance of whom is indelibly fixed on my heart, & in whose welfare I am ever interested - Believe me my dear Sir to remain, yours with every sincere feeling of esteem, respect & obligation
Ann Flinders
Vicarage Chobham
July 15th. 1815
[Page 304]
Flinders must be paid £10.. & myself £55.. which will leave £47..10.. It now remains with you & Mr. Hursthouse to say whether I shall receive the whole of the remainder for the maintenance of the Child - On this point I beg of you both to consider, what a very straitened income I possess, as also that as times now are, it is usual to allow £30 a year even for a nurse child, & I can assure you that any but the nearest relatives would think my Anne a world of trouble, she is so very active & volatile, it is quite one persons work to mind her - I flatter myself that when all the trying circumstances under which I am left are considered, it will be thought but justice to let me have the little that remains for her support - in fact there will not be so much as £47..10.. left when the the income tax is deducted - I leave it to your consideration my dear Sir trusting to your known liberality & the justice of the cause -
It has proved an unfortunate affair that Mr. Hursthouse shod. have delayed signing the Power of Atty. He seems to think that there is no occasion for it, & that I might receive the dividends myself being so near to London, but he does not consider that it would be more expensive to me the going twice to Town & back than employing Mr. B- He seems to think has that the power of Atty. gives Mr. B- authority over the principle, this is a very wrong idea; not a shilling can be touched, but as we jointly grant a particular power for the purpose, specifying the exact sum we wish to dispose of; but this of course you know, and I grieve that Mr. H- shod, be so ignorant of what relates to the business - Mr. Brine is a Man of whom my ever beloved Husband had a very high opinion, & for myself I can say, that I have had the best reasons to be satisfied with him in all he has done kindly assisted me in, & I am sure he has had a great deal of trouble in the business, indeed in fact had it not been for him, I am certain we shod, have stuck fast - I fear you have not the power of Atty. with you, but indeed as it has been delayed beyond the 1st. of this month, when the new duties were laid on, there must in all probability be a new power, which is a great pity, as it will be a fresh expence of £1..16..6 - With respect to administering to the will, I apprehend it is now a matter of no consequence as the business is all done, & the remaining property bought into the funds in the joint names of all the Trustees, but Mr. Brine can inform you best on that head - shod, Mr. Hursthouse meet you in London, I will thank you to give my best respects to him, & tell him that I
[Page 305]
will send him a copy of the accounts as soon as I can - The fall in the stocks during the last twelve months has been very unfortunate for the property, it has lessened the value of it considerably, but this we cannot help - We were all much rejoiced to hear that you were better, but as much disappointed that you do not purpose to come to Chobham, I am willing to flatter myself that you will change your mind, & that we shall have the pleasure of seeing you here - Mr. Jerram is perfectly recovered, he speaks with much pleasure of the kind attention he received under your hospitable roof - Give my kind love to Mrs. Newbald & tell her I am truly disappointed that you do not come to Chobham - I hope she will excuse me answering her letter just now - My Mother & Sister unite with me in best respects to you both - I remain my dr. Sir your sincere friend
Ann Flinders
I hope you will let me hear from you as soon as you can after you have considered the contents of this etc etc
Vicarage Chobham Sepr. 11th. 1815
[Page 306]
go from hence to Town & back for less than two guineas, & this twice a year would of course be four, this is above a pound more than Mr. Brine's charge would be - Mr. Brine is a Man of integrity & one whom Capt. F- had a high opinion of, and from all I have seen of him I have every reason to speak & think well of him, in fact situated as I have been, knowing very little of stock & law business myself, & the other Trustees as little, had it not been for the assistance of Mr. Brine or some person equally well informed, we must have stuck fast - The Power of Atty. gives Mr. B- no authority whatever over the property, he cannot sell out a shilling without a proper power for that particular purpose & expressing the exact sum we wish to dispose of - With respect to the application of the dividends, the agent has nothing to do with that neither, further than he is ordered by us - I cannot but lament that you shod, feel so great a dislike to the use of the pen, it is a pity but you could persuade Mrs. N- to become your amanuensis, but probably she will say, that with a family to attend to, she has business enough to employ her, in her own department -
We feel very much obliged by your wish to see us, & very happy we shod, be to accept your invitation, but a straitened income allows no travelling expences, My little Anne grows fast, & talks incessantly, I assure you we very frequently talk of your little folks, & as I only know the name of the eldest, I am obliged to invent names for the others, pray when you write again tell us what the younger ones are called - We all beg to unite in best respects to yourself & Mrs. N- and I remain dear Sir your sincere friend
Ann Flinders
You will see by the accounts that I have recd a balance of £85..16.. - this is something more than the amount of the half-pay, which I had your permission as well as Mr. Newbalds to take, along with the dividends towards the support of myself & the Child, whilst we were obliged to continue in London, but most of the latter went to pay a part of the debts. The great fall in the funds during the last twelve months, has been a sad affair, as it has lessened the property a good deal - There is a difference of 13 per cent - Vicarage Chobham Sepr. 20 1815
[Page 307]
To G. Nicol Esqre. Pall Mall
My dear Sir/
Two months have now passed away since I had the pleasure of calling upon you in Town, & as in that period I have not been favored with a line from you, I am led to conclude you have not heard anything further from Sir Joseph Banks - I imagine as he told you, that he would immediately write to Lord Melville, he most probably did so, & not hearing perhaps anything satisfactory from that quarter, he has not thought it of consequence to mention it to you - I shod, suppose that by this time Sir Joseph is gone down into Lincolnshire, & that I have nothing further to expect from his influence or exertions - May I ask whether you have had any more conversation with your friend at the Admiralty, who informed you that the first Lord had ordered a memorial to be made out? - perhaps he could throw some light on the subject - Will you my dear Sir favor me with your decided opinion on this affair, whether you think there is any hope left? - Pardon me I entreat you for thus troubling you again on this matter - You who are well acquainted with the feelings of the human heart, will readily imagine that as a widow with a very, very limited income, I am particularly interested in the subject, more especially as I fear there is but little to expect from the sale of that unfortunate Work which cost the life of one of the best of human Beings, one infinitely & deservedly dear, whose loss is an irremedible calamity to his Widow & Child - I again beg of you to pardon all the trouble I give you, & believe that the kind attention I have so uniformly recd, from you, will be remembered with a sense which time & distance may refine but cannot injure - My Mother & Sister unite with me in best respects to yourself, Mrs. Nicol & Miss Wilson
Vicarage Chobham ` I remain my dr. Sir
Sepr. 22d. 1815 Your gratefully obliged
Ann Flinders
[Page 308]
To Mr. Thos. Pitot
My dear Sir
I was this week favored with your obliging letter, dated the 17th. of last April, as also one from your house of the same date - In July of this year I paid into the hands of Messrs. Henckell & DuBoisson £152..12..1, according to your order written in Jany. being the remaining money belonging to you in my possession - I also gave into the hands of the same Gents the bill of exchange for £100, & a bill for £27..15..11, drawn on Messrs. Wilson & Agassis & Co - intended for Admiral Linois, of this transaction they have no doubt informed you - At the same time I left with them a letter to be forwarded to you by the first opportunity containing a full account of all I had expended on your account since the death of my ever lamented Husband - About five weeks ago your order to pay what I held of yours, to Mr Le Gallier of Paris arrived - I referred his Agent to Messrs. H- & D- who have paid the £152..12..1, to him for Mr. Le Gallier & have taken receipts according to your wish - I feel gratified by your approval of what I did respecting the printing press etc and I hope that long before this they will have reached you in safety, & that every article will have given satisfaction - both Mr. Nicol & myself lamented much the delay which attended the sailing of the vessel on board of which they were sent - I thank you very sincerely as also Messrs. C. & E. Pitot for the kind interest taken in my affairs, I feel anxious that the publication of my late inestimable Husband may meet with a ready sale in your island, the peculiar turn of the present times has militated much against it in this country, & I fear it will be long indeed if ever, before any advantage is derived from it - Mr. Nicol gives me every reason to believe that the profits (when there are any) will be given to me & my child, I fear however that as yet, it has not paid the expence of paper & printing - I shod, be very glad to receive something from it, as my present income is a very small one; I have been flattered with the hope that in consideration of the services & misfortunes of Capt. Flinders, the Admiralty would afford me some addition to my pension, but Alas! hitherto all is disappointment on that head - In various letters which I have forward to you, I have mentioned that it is the wish
[Page 309]
of the other Trustees, that the Cattle under M Labauve's care shod, be sold, & the produce be remitted to me, & also that the interest of the money in Bourbon shod, be remitted yearly, you will therefore have the goodness to let the Cattle be disposed of so soon as it is convenient to Mr. Labauve, & I shall feel obliged to Mr. Desbassayns to let the interest of the money for this year 1815 to the end of Decr. to be remitted at the same time - I beg of you to offer my best respects, with sentiments of the highest esteem to Mr. & Madame Desbassayns & to every member of the D'Arifat family, for all of whom my heart ever feels strongly interested, & I shall experience much pleasure if, when you favor me with another epistle, you would inform me of their health etc - I again request of you to accept my best thanks, for your obliging letter & offers of service, I can assure you that I have no small share of consolation in the thought, that thro' the merits & exalted worth of my late invaluable husband, I am permitted to a claim on your friendship, & I rest fully satisfied of your attention in regulating the little affairs He left to your care - I wish I could inform you that my mind was becoming more composed and resigned to the dreadful loss I have sustained but Alas! Time which usually softens distress, seems to add fresh weight to that which incessantly presses on my heart; perhaps the silence & retirement of my present abode may help to increase these feelings, here being little variety of scene to call off my memory from constantly dwelling on the treasure I have lost, & the sweet hours of domestic peace & comfort, I enjoyed in his dear society - I shod, apologise my dear Sir for entering on this subject, but knowing as you did Him whom I lament, I feel that you sympathise with me, & this encourages my pen - My little Girl altho rather delicate in her constitution, is pretty well, she grows fast & talks incessantly, her vivacity & animation are extreme - Having repeatedly heard your name, she often enquires about you & not unfrequently builds you a house with her playthings - With sentiments of the highest esteem & gratitude I am my dear Sir
your greatly obliged & sincere
friend
Chobham Novr. 6 Ann Flinders
1815
[Page 310]
To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir
An Opportunity offering of sending a few lines to Town, I cannot resist the inclination I feel to thank you for your last obliging letter, indeed I am infinitely indebted for all your kind attention to me - On considering the expression of your friend at the Admiralty namely, that "he saw the memorial preparing at the desire of Lord Melville"- I am at a loss what to think on the subject, the Memorial if really prepared, cannot have been presented, because it never was sent to me for signature which I am told in such cases is necessary - May it not then be probable possible the delay may rest with those who ought to forward the Memorial Letter?- this idea has suggested itself as not improbable, will you give it a place in your mind, when you have leisure to consider it - Is it possible that your friend could make any enquiry on this head? I merely state the above thought & ask the foregoing question, but beg that you will not give yourself one moments trouble on the subject - Sir J. B- will now I suppose soon be in Town, & shod, he ever mention the affair again I am sure you will inform me - The account of your dream amused me, & I have no doubt that were it verified you would kindly exert yourself in my behalf - My little Anne is well, she often says "Mr. Nicol is my friend"- You will smile when I tell you, that she professes herself to be very fond of hearing her Aunty read the history of Leo the [indecipherable], but as a proof of her great admiration, she drops asleep in about five minutes after the reading commences - My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in best respects to yourself, Mrs. Nicol & Miss Wilson - & I remain my dear Sir
Your greatly obliged
Ann Flinders
Chobham Novr. 6th
1815
To Messrs. Henckell & Duboisson, inclosed letters to Mr. Thos. Pitot - Isle of France - Novr. 6th. 1815
[Page 311]
To John Barrow Esqre. Admiralty
Sir
Understanding that applications have been made to you on behalf of Lt. John Franklin, as an Officer well qualified for employment in the expedition now preparing for Africa, I take the liberty of stating to you the sentiments which Capt. Flinders entertained concerning him, as the opinion of a Man so well calculated by long services to judge in such a case, may be a means of strengthening any favorable impressions you may have recd, of him - I have repeatedly heard Captain Flinders express himself, highly satisfied with the conduct & exertions of Lt. F- during the whole of the voyage in the Investigator, & I know that it was the sincere wish & intention of Capt. Flinders to have assisted him by every means in his power to obtain professional advancement - He felt much attachment to him, not only for his nautical abilities, but also for his great steadiness of character - Should the knowledge of this opinion prove advantageous to Mr. Franklin in calling forth your consideration towards him, I shall feel much gratification - Entreating you to pardon this intrusion, a liberty I certainly shod, not have taken but from being informed that Mr. Franklin is not in possession of any written document from Capt. Flinders expressive of the high estimation in which he held him -
I have the honour to be Sir
Your most obt sert.
Ann Flinders
Widow of the late Capt. Flinders
Vicarage Chobham Novr. 11th.
1815
[Page 312]
To the Right hon. Sir Joseph Banks Bt.
Sir
I once more take the liberty of addressing you, & as nine months have now elapsed since I was honored with your obliging reply to my former application, I trust you will not deem me impatient too anxious, when my circumstances & situation are considered - Will you have the goodness to favor me with your opinion, whether you think I have anything to hope from the liberality of the Admiralty, in consideration of the services & sufferings of my late unfortunate Husband? - to be relieved from a painful state of suspense would afford me great satisfaction - Any addition to my limited income would certainly be very acceptable - Captain Flinders during the period of his residence in Town, whilst employed in writing the account of his voyage, was obliged to expend more than his income, which lessened the small private property he possessed, altho living in the utmost retirement & with the most strict economy - Could anything be expected from the sale of the publication, I should rest more easy with the respect to the foregoing subject, but I fear many circumstances militate against much hope on that head - -
Entreating you to pardon this second intrusion, & hoping for the favor of a reply I beg Sir to subscribe myself with great respect your most obt sert
Ann Flinders
Chatham Decr 6th. 1815
To Mr. Robt. Newbald Hull
My dear Sir/
Since I recd, your very obliging reply to my letter concerning the Trusteeship, I have written to the Agent in London, begging him to make every necessary enquiry respecting the business, & the expense attending it - In answer he says - "There is no occasion whatever for Mr. R. N- to administer, in fact that cannot now be done, the Will being proved in the life time of his father who did not do it - I shod, strongly recommend you to accept Mr. R. N. as a Trustee were it not for the great expence it will occasion, as in that case, his Father's Will must be registered at the Bank, & when that is done, a Power must be taken out for you & Mr. Hursthouse to sign, that the property may be transferred into your names jointly with that of Mr. R. Newbald, & then a new Power must be obtained
[Page 313]
with the three signatures, to enable us to receive the dividends - the lowest expence of all this would be nearly £12 for brokerage, Powers etc"-
Thus my dear Sir the business stands, & so long as Mr N- & myself are permitted to live, there is no absolute necessity that you shod, act, but, from various and weighty considerations, I am induced to solicit the following favor of you; namely, that shod, Mr. Hursthouse or myself be taken from this earthly scene before my dear Anne becomes of age, that you will kindly consent then to undertake the charge jointly with the remaining Trustee, and also that shod, any difficulty arise before that period, you will permit me to ask your advice & assistance there-in? - -
A Legacy of £20, was left to your dear Father (and which he received last July) to enable him to meet any expence he might be at in the business of the Trust, such as Postage etc, this of course devolves to you, I therefore hope you will not in any way be inconvenienced in point of expense by my applying to you - I shall be much obliged when you have leisure to answer this, if you will procure & send to me a certificate of your Fathers burial, this will be necessary to be shewn at the Bank, if his Will be not registered there - I beg you to offer my best respects to Mrs. Newbald, & my kind regards to your Mother, from whom I shall be most happy to hear, when she feels herself able to take the pen, it gave me pleasure to learn that she bears this most painful of all earthly trials with fortitude - Remember me if you please to your sister, & believe me
Your obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Vicarage Chobham nr. Bagshot
Jany. 17th. 1816
[Page 314]
To Sir Joseph Banks
Sir
I beg of you to pardon this intrusion on your time, Gratitude forbids me to be silent on the present occasion I would entreat you to accept my most sincere acknowledgments for the obliging exertions you have made on my behalf, and for your condescension in so immediately informing me of the result - From the hopes you give me on the subject, I shall dare to flatter myself that the Admiralty will thro' the representations you have kindly made, consider me in some way with an addition of income, either to myself or child -
I have Sir the honor to remain
with great respect your much
obliged & obt sert
Ann Flinders
Vicarage Chobham
Jany. 23d 1816
To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir/
I recd, yours yesterday with its melancholy enclosure, a painful fatality seems to pursue that unfortunate voyage, unfortunate indeed it has been from its commencement unto the present period, nor dare I hope for better days concerning it - How very unlucky my dear Sir, that Mr. P-was not informed respecting the price, as in all probability had he known it, most of the copies would have been disposed of on its first landing, & so have escaped this sad calamity - for myself - I never once thought of mentioning it, naturally supposing that an account would of course be sent out with them - It seems however necessary Mr. Pitot shod, have some information on the subject, that in case he obtains any indemnification fm. Mr. McCarthy, he may know what to do in this unfortunate affair - Perhaps you will take the trouble to write to him on the subject, I will do the same, & if the letters go by two different opportunities, he will most probably secure one of them - If your letter be given be given to the care of Messrs. Henckell & Co- L.P. Lane, it will I have no doubt be forwarded by the first
[Page 315]
opportunity, these Gents knew & much esteemed my late dear Husband, they are Agents for the house of Pitot - Independant of this sad destruction of the Publication, I am exceedingly grieved for Mr. Pitot's misfortune, for altho the loss of the Merchandise will be divided amongst the three Partners, yet the deprivation of his personal property must be very distressing, particularly his liberary which I have understood was a valuable one, & well selected, as might be expected, by a Man of so much taste and information - I was honored with a very obliging & encouraging letter fm. Sir J. Banks, about a month ago, & had some thoughts of communicating its contents to you, but on consideration defered troubling you, until matters shod, wear a more tangible form, but which in all probability, from the present aspect of affairs they never will - You will think that I always look on the dark side of the prospect, Oh! my dear Sir, this you will allow is natural to one who has been the chosen companion of misfortune; but one short gleam of peace & comfort hath illumined my path of life, since the joyous hours of Childhood, it faded on the tomb of my Husband & has left me the prey of sorrow - I think I know the sympathy & benevolence of your heart, otherwise I shod, apologise for thus touching on a chord which can only vibrate to the notes of woe - My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in best respects to yourself Mrs. Nicol & Miss W- I remain my dr. sir Your very sincere & much obliged friend
Ann Flinders
Chobham Feby. 22d 1816
[Page 316]
To Mr. T. Pitot
My dear Sir/
I have just learnt from Mr. Nicol the melancholy disaster which happened in Sepr. last to your house, & of our loss in consequence - I can assure that I feel much distressed for your misfortune, independant of what relates to myself - It was indeed unfortunate, and most extraordinary that the books shod, have been sent to you without the price being affixed; Mr. Nicol knowing that I was writing to you at the time, supposed I shod, mention it, & I naturally thinking, that an account would of course be sent by him, never gave it a thought, nor can I find that in my subsequent letters I have ever mentioned it, altho I think I sent you a particular account in May last, of what I had paid to Mr. Nicol, & for what - I shall however enclose to you with this, the original account which I recd, from Mr. Nicol, you will there see that the price of the Voyage is sold at, is eight guineas the set - This voyage of my dear Husband's has indeed been a most unfortunate one, from its beginning to the present period, calamity seems to attend it in every possible way, & your island my dr. Sir seems particularly its enemy - No advantage whatever has been derived from it as yet, nor dare I hope for better days concerning it, the present times are much against it, the general want of money being so great - Your obliging favor of July last I recd, a short time ago, & beg to thank you for it, as also in an especial manner for your kind compliance with my wishes, by writing in english, & I beg you will not apologise for the style of it, I can assure you that I read it with great ease, & perfectly understood it; I feel sorry to be under the necessity of giving you the trouble to employ our language; that I shod, never have learnt yours has certainly been a great oversight in my education, & I have many times lamented it - I addressed a letter to you in Novemr. last & hope by this time it may have reached you, it woud, inform you of the wish of the Trustees to have the Cattle disposed of, & the interest of the Money in Bourbon remitted yearly, in any manner the most
[Page 317]
convenient to yourself -
I beg of you to present my best respects to M. Labauve & family, as also to M. Desbassayns & family, I woud, likewise offer the same to yourself & the individuals of your family - I remain my dr. Sir with the greatest respect your much obliged
& very sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Vicarage Chobham
Feby. 24th. 1816
To Messrs. Henckell & Co
Gentlemen
I again take the liberty of sending to your care a packet for the Isle of France, if you have recently heard from Messrs. Pitot, you will most probably have been informed of the sad calamity which befell them in Sepr. last, by a fire communicating from the adjacent house; Mr. T. Pitot has suffered particularly from it, having lost all his furniture, linen, library etc, & I regret to add 19 copies of my late dear Husband's work, which had been sent out to be disposed of in that Island - The loss in Merchandise amounts to more than 30,000 piastres, you will I am sure lament with me this sad calamity - The enclosed accounts are of consequence to the house of Pitot, as well as to myself,
[Page 318]
shall therefore feel much obliged by a safe & early conveyance for them - With best compliments to the family at Wandsworth, I remain Gentlemen with great respect
Your much obliged & most obt sert
Ann Flinders
Chobham Feby. 24th. 1816
To Mr. Park Portsmouth
Chobham March 13th.
My dear Sir/ 1816
Altho I am not altogether a new correspondent yet I am well aware that you will be surprised at the sight of my signature - It is unnecessary to speak of the severe loss I have sustained since I had the pleasure of seeing you & Mrs. Park five years ago in London, but presuming on the friendship you ever manifested for my late invaluable Husband, I venture to address you at this time, & feel assured that if it be in your power to give me information on the following subject, that I shall be favored with an answer from you - From your proximity to Southampton I think it very probable that you may be able to give me a little intelligence concerning it, for I have some idea of taking up my abode there, shod, it appear eligible - Can you then my dear Sir tell me whether in point of Rent provisions & coals, it is a reasonable place - I have understood that it is a very healthy situation, & that people may reside at it as retired as they please, this would suit myself & the other members of my family exactly, provided the above articles may be obtained at a tolerable cheap rate; perhaps you might be able to tell me for what rent a house of a moderate size might be had; the family for which it is wanted consists besides myself & little Girl, of my Mother, who is a clergymans widow, & of an unmarried Sister, they have united with me in the expences of housekeeping ever since the heavy loss I sustained, and it is our wish to continue the same plan - we are now in a village about 50 miles from Southampton, but we find it so extremely inconvenient in a great many respects that we feel anxious to try a town residence, and on several accounts we think we sho d, like S- provided what I have before mentioned could be found reasonable - Did I not know the kindness of your heart, I shod, apologise for the liberty I am taking but relying on that I venture to trouble you, & begging the favor of an answer so soon as convenient, I remain dear Sir with best compts. to Mrs. Park & yourself very
respectfully yours A F-
[Page 319]
To Mrs. Park - Portsmouth
My dear Madam
I was truly concerned to find that Mr. Park had been so much indisposed, but I trust from the favorable account you give of his returning health that he is by this time perfectly recovered - I beg of you to accept my best thanks for your very obliging letter, & for the information it contained respecting Southampton - From what you say we are inclined to think the prices of provisions are moderate in comparison with what we pay here, coals are certainly much cheaper, but what you tell me of house rent is rather alarming - From Mr. P-s very kind offer of an introduction to an old acquaintance friend of his, my Sister & myself have had some thoughts of going over to reconnoitre a little, but unless we were tolerably well assured that the place were likely to suit us, we are loath to incur the expence of such a journey - Now my dear Madam to obviate this difficulty, I am about to solicit another favor of Mr. Park, & shod, he think me too encroaching I must throw myself on his goodnature for pardon - Your having mentioned an acquaintance at S- who fm. his long residence there could give me every desired information, I have thought, that if Mr. Park would favor me with the address of his friend, & permit me to make use of his name, I might, if it would not be deemed an intrusion, write to him, begging intelligence on the following particular - What he supposes the rent & taxes of a house would be consisting of four chambers, two attics or garrets, two moderate sized parlours with a kitchen & suitable offices, & a small garden - perhaps the houses you speak of as being within a few minutes walk of the town may be of this description, & we think we shod, greatly prefer one of these, if they are not too far from church & market - I could also like to ask the rate of servants wages, & if he knows what mode of carriage there is for goods from Bagshot to Southampton Our motive for wishing to reside at the latter place arises from an idea of its being so salubrious a situation we are all inclined to the invalid list & flatter ourselves we might enjoy more of that first of blessings, health, were we near the Sea coast - Begging my dear Madam that you will pardon the trouble I am giving you, I remain with best respects to yourself & Mr. Park
Your greatly obliged
Chobham March 22d. Ann Flinders
[Page 320]
To Sir Joseph Banks
Sir/
Being under the necessity of changing my place of residence, I take the liberty of making you acquainted with my future address, in case you shod, have any communication to honor me with - Since the death of Capt. Flinders I have united in housekeeping with my Mother, by which means I have been enabled to find a home - she now finds it expedient to remove to Southampton, where I of course shall accompany her - Shod, Lord Melville be led to consider the case in which you have so kindly & repeatedly interested yourself, any communication you may condescend to give on the subject will find me after this week in Glos'ter Square Southampton -
I have the honor etc
Chobham June 28th Ann Flinders
1816
To Mr. Park Portsmouth
My dear Sir/
Grateful for you kindness in opening for me a correspondence with Capt. Dick (who I have the pleasure to say has been particularly kind & attentive to my wishes, & whom I have found very intelligent on every point on which I wanted information,) I cannot help thanking you again for your obliging compliance with my request on this head - We have at length obtained a house in Southampton, which we find comfortable, but in a very retired situation; the rent & taxes certainly amount to more than we wished to give, but according as the rents are in Southampton it is thought reasonable - We have now been at this place a month, & I shod, have written to you sooner had not indisposition prevented, I have been confined to the house a fortnight, but am now better & able to get out again - And now my dear Sir I hope it is unnecessary for me to use many words for the purpose of assuring you that each member of my family as well as myself will have much pleasure in seeing you & Mrs. Park at S- 'tis true we cannot offer any great inducements to tempt you, except what the natural beauties of situation can afford, as we live
[Page 321]
in perfect retirement, however such a reception as it is in our limited circumstances to give, we shall with real pleasure offer you -
Begging you to accept my kind & best respects & to present them also to Mrs. Park
I remain my dear Sir
Your gratefully obliged fd.
Southampton Ann Flinders
July 31 1816
To Mr. Brine
My dear Sir/
You will probably be surprised to hear fr. me at present, having no money matters in particular to execute transact, I wish however to have your advice & opinion, & presuming on the kind attention you have taken in my concerns, I feel assured you will advise me to the best of your power knowledge, on the subject I am about to mention - I think I told you a few months after the discease of my excellent husband Husband, that I was not without hopes thro' the means & influence of Sir J. B. of receiving from the Admiralty some addition to my pension, these hopes however thus far have been disappointed, notwith standing Sir J. B- in his last letter was rather sanguine on the subject, as Lord Melville admitted my claims to be just - this letter was written nine months ago - Now my Sir, I want your opinion whether you think I may venture to make an application myself to some one of the Lords of the Admiralty, in the way of a petition, as making my case known to them, or whether I shod, let things remain as they are? I am well aware the business requires great delicacy & caution, considering who has had it in hand, & who I believe has not yet given it up - I have been urged by several of my friends to address the Admiralty myself, as they have frequently heard it asked, whether I had ever made any application to Government, & whether I had received any extra pension? it being observed at the same time, that it was most extraordinary that the widow of such a Man as Capt. Flinders shod not be better provided for - If I were to write a letter to Sir Geo' Worsender, or any other of the Lords
[Page 322]
Commissioners you might think better, could you thro' the medium of one of your numerous friends at Admiralty get it conveyed for me into their own hands? Perhaps you could find a way to sound some of your naval friends on the subject - If I were fully satisfied that Government would not grant me anything more than the usual pension, I shod, I think be tempted to address the Directors of the E.I. Company & try what I could make of them - Your opinion & advice will be regarded a great & an additional favor by my dear Sir Your much obliged &
sincere friend
Southampton Ann Flinders
Octr. 15 1816
To Miss Hurst Secy.
Madam/
It is with much regret I return the enclosed paper a blank - My health during the last several weeks has been such, as to prevent me fm. executing what I had undertaken, in reference to the Ladies Bible Association, & I feel that I must for the present resign the office of Collector, this you will have the goodness to make known to the Ladies of the Sub Committee, that they may appoint some one more capable than myself to the district which I reluctantly resign -
I remain Madam
Your obt. Sert.
Ann Flinders
Glos'ter Square
Novr. 3d 1816
To Miss Toomer
My dear Miss Toomer
I return to your care the books & papers which I recd, from you a few weeks ago - My present state of health precluding me from using them in behalf of institution in which I take so great an interest - I feel that I must give up the office I had undertaken, but I wish to do so only for the time being - hoping that if I am spared, & my health in some degree amended, I may be permitted in the course of a few weeks to offer my services again in that cause which I trust lies near my heart; I have signified to Miss Hurst as Miss. Sec. my present design, & willingly flatter myself that some one will easily be found to take the district I am obliged to resign - I have thought that as there is so much opposition in the members of the establishment, it might
[Page 323]
prove beneficial to distribute amongst them the paper containing the episcopal proofs of approbation towards the Bible Society; had I called on Mrs. Hill & been allowed the favor of an interview, it was my intention to have introduced the above named paper, thinking it might serve to efface the idea of this institution being "designed to subvert the Church" - With best respects to Mrs. Toomer (whose exertions deserve a civic crown, but who will receive a brighter one in realms above)
I remain my dear Miss Toomer
Your sincere friend
Glos'ter Square Ann Flinders
Novr 3d 1816
To Miss Jerram
My dear Miss Jerram
Favor me my dear Miss Jerram by accepting the little silver measure which accompanies this - knowing that I have with you the credit, or rather the discredit of taking away your favorites from Chobham, I send this memorial of my regard, as a peace offering, but I can assure you in that business you gave me credit for far greater influence than I possessed - - I shall also enclose two silver pens & pencils, which I will thank you to present to your Brothers Charles & James with my kind remembrance to them - Offer my best respects to Mr. Jerram & my very affectionate regard to your dear Mother - Bell has I believe delivered Anne's Message to young Vicar, as also the budget of respects for your Neighbours - Accept my love & believe me your sincerely affectte. friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton
Novr. 1816
[Page 324]
To Mrs. Dick
My dear Madam
Your polite invitation for Saturday evening, would have recd, an earlier reply, but for a mistake which attended it - Your servant delivered the Card at Capt. Firths, and we did not receive it until this morning, when Mrs. Firth discovered it in her Card rack & immediately brought it over -
My Sister & myself beg to express to you our obligation for your attention to us, & were it our design to visit in Southampton, we shod, with great pleasure avail ourselves of your politeness, but various reasons combine to prevent our entering into parties, one of the chief is, the delicate state of my own health - I can assure you that altho we decline the acceptance of your invitation, we are fully sensible of all the kind attention shewn us by yourself & Capt Dick, both of whom we shall be happy to see at all times - My Mother & Sister beg to write with me in best compts. to yourself & Capt Dick - I hope to have the pleasure of calling on you at an early period & remain
My dear Madam
Your obliged & Obt. Sert.
Ann Flinders
Glos ter Square
Novr. 27th. 1816
[Page 325]
To Mr. T. Pitot
My dear Sir/
Your obliging letter of May the 20th. 1816 I received perfectly safe, informing me of the sale of the Cattle, and I beg of you to accept by best thanks for your endeavours to obtain a better price, I also think myself particularly obliged to Mr. Labauve for taking them at the price he has done, but I purpose to write to him if I can by this present opportunity, or if not by the next that offers - I rather wonder that I have not been favored before this with a remittance, or a few lines from Mr. Chas Desbassayns, but hope it will not be long ere I shall receive from him, the interest of the money left with him, for 1815 & 1816 - I can assure you that any addition to my limitted income will be very acceptable - My hopes respecting any thing being done for me by the Admiralty become daily more weak; the cry for reform & economy is so great, that no additional pensions can at present be granted, & as my dear Husband did not die in battle or in actual service, I understand that I have no particular claim to offer, his hardships, his long imprisonment, his arduous exersions, avail nothing & seem already to be forgotten - the peculiar pressure of the times too makes against the sale of the voyage, so that my prospects of pecuniary aid are still very gloomy - The misfortune which befell the books sent to your care, must be regretted, & I greatly lament that you were not in possession of the price of them, I hope that long ere this you have heard from Mr. Nicol on the subject & also that you have received the letter I wrote you last Feby. the sale price of the voyage is eight Guineas the set, the booksellers cost price respecting the same - Since I wrote the above, I have read in the Newspaper a melancholy account of the disasterous fire which has happened at Fort Louis, I need not say that I am greatly concerned at it, & feel exceedingly anxious on your account, fearing you may again have sustained much distress from the distructive element - I pray heaven my fears on this head may be groundless - Should your various avocations ever permit you to visit England, it would afford me very
[Page 326]
great pleasure to bid you welcome to Southampton, the place we have at length chosen for our residence, we are all well satisfieed with the change we have made, the air is so salubrious & the situation so very beautiful - My dear Anne is much better in health since we came hither - She grows fast & her intellectual faculties expand rapidly, she now reads remarkably well, & has some knowledge of history & geography - She will be five years old on the first of april that notorious day - I hope however that she will prove no fool - I beg of you to offer my best respects to the members of your own family, as also the families of D'Arifat & Desbassayns - & believe me at all times my dear Sir your very grateful & very sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton
Feby. 5th. 1817
Address as usual to Robt. Brine Esqre.
3 Cliffords Inn, or to Messrs. Henckell & Co.
To Messrs. Henckell & Co.
Gentlemen
May I beg the favor of you to forward the enclosed letter to its address by the first opportunity - And may I also beg the favor of a line from you saying whether the Messrs. Pitot were sufferers by the late disastrous fire at Port Louis, I feel particularly anxious for information on this head, as I cannot suppress my fears that those kind friends may again be involved in this sad calamity, With most respectful compliments to the family at Wandsworth, I remain Gentlemen your greatly obliged
& most obt Sert. Ann Flinders
Glos'ter Square
Southamptom Feby. 5th. 1817
Lt. Flinders
Had I kn you given me more time I might have been able to have deliniated with more a greater degree of accuracy the private Character of One who for more than half my life was has been the dearest Object of my heart's affections as it is, I can only offer a hasty sketch, which you will be at liberty to improve as much as you please & Mr. Her to assist - Have you ever seen a paper letter written by Malte Brun
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inserted in the Journal de Paris 15 Decr. 1814 - Author of the "Annales des Voyages" - if you have not I will send you a translation of it, as it may be of great use to refer to when you answer M. Freycinet's defence of Peron - it relates to the is written "on the Imperial Plagiarism relative to the pretended Terra\e Napoleon - X
I am very glad that the high price of Stocks has enabled you to assist your Sister, I hope now they will notwith standing the pressure of the times be able to get on, and I have the greater hopes on the subject, from their being placed in a situation just suited to their taste & wishes - Your Neice grows fast, & her intellectual faculties daily expand, and if you can give credit to maternal fondness, you may believe that she possesses a more than ordinary capacity - She now reads remarkably well, & comes on very rapidly in anything we put into her hands, what she commits to memory is however done with so much ease, that it is liable to be soon forgotten -
X When I have seen the paper you promise me I shall be better able to judge whether anything I can say further will be of any use to you for your the third essay you prepare to write - I remain in haste your sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton
Feby. 18 1817
To Mrs. Firth
My dear Madam
It is with no small degree of regret, that we feel ourselves under the necessity of declining the acceptance of your kind & friendly invitation, & that for the following particular reason - Not intending to enter into parties when we came to Southampton, we refused the solicitations of some who politely asked us to their houses, amongst these were Capt. & Mrs. Dick, to whom we are under many obligations, we therefore feel that in accepting your obliging invitation, we shod, be acting with pointed rudeness to them & others, we therefore trust that yourself & Capt. Firth will receive this fact as an apology for our refusal, & we beg at the same time to assure you that we are sensibly gratified by your kind attention to us, and we trust you will still allow us to consider you as Neighbours -
My Mother and Sister unite with me in best compts. to
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yourself, Captain & Miss Firth - Purposing to myself the pleasure of calling upon you soon
I remain my dear Madam
Your obliged obt Sert
Ann Flinders
Glos'ter Square
April 18th. 1817
To Mr. Pitot
My dear Sir/
Were I not well assured of the sincerity of your friendship, I should be ready to fear that you would begin to think me a troublesome correspondent, as an enquiry after money concerns is usually the subject of my letters, were you not a merchantile, as well as a literarybeing a merchantile Man, you are accustomed to such things otherwise you would scarcely be able to put up with my stupid scrawls, & you must also think me a very interested being - It is true that I set a great value upon literary attainments, & works of taste I greatly admire, but to enjoy them with comport, it is necessary to possess a little of this world's goods & were You are not totally unacquainted with the state of my finances you must think me a very interested Being but you know that they are far from competent - this & this makes me feel anxious for remittances from Mauritius & Bourbon - I had hoped that 'ere this time I should have been favored with a few lines from Mr. Charles Desbassayns with the two last years interest of the money placed under his care, may I beg the favor of you to address him on the subject & say that I am anxious to hear from him, I am persuaded that he will readily believe any addition to my income must be of consequence to me, as what I possess is very limited- I have never been able to obtain any addition to my pension from Government, & altho the voyage of late dear Husband has now been published three years, it has not yet produced anything to me I am therefore the more anxious to obtain what little I can from the small property left in your Islands - To Mr. Labauve I purpose to write by this conveyance, in answer to the letter I recd, from him, when I was favored with your last, I recd, them in Feby. last they were written in May & June 1816 - I hope by this time your poor, ill fated Town is rising fast from its ashes, may it prove a Phoenix in wealth & beauty; I was truly gratified to learn that you & your family were not sufferers a second time by the distructive element - I was favored not very long ago with a short visit from Mr. & Mrs. Henckell, I was sorry to see the good old Man, so greatly altered, he seems indeed tottering on the verge of eternity - I shall send this as usual to his care -
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I beg of you to accept my respectful regards, & present them also to all those of your family who may have known & loved my late most excellent Husband - Believe me my dear Sir your greatly obliged & very sincere friend
Ann Flinders
My little Girl is very delicate in her health, she is at present much indisposed with a violent cough - Address as usual under cover to Robt. Brine Esqre. Southampton July 14/ 1817
To Mr. Labauve - Palma -
Dear Sir
I feel ashamed that on looking at the date of your letter to fin that I have never before this replied to it - I wrote to Mr. T. Pitot some months ago, when I begged of him to offer you my thanks for the trouble you had taken respecting the Cattle, & for your kindness in taking them yourself, an advantageous sale not offering for them - I beg to assure you of my gratitude for this mark of your friendship for the Widow & Child of your late Friend - The Money for the Cattle I understood would be paid in six months from last May 1816 - it has not yet come to hand, but may probably now be on its way hither - The voyage of my late dear & excellent Husband has now been published three years, but I have never yet received the least benefit from it; & I am fearful to make enquiries concerning it, least it shod, be found not to have paid the expences of paper, printing etc. I was grieved to understand by your letter, that you had been the subject of misfortune, and I am ready to fear, afflictions may have been multiplied to you or some part of your family, by the melancholy disaster which occurred at Port Louis last Sepr. I felt horror struck as I read the distressing account - I shall feel most sincere pleasure to learn that you & all those who are dear to you escaped unhurt either both in person and property - from the devouring element - I beg my respectful regards to Madame Labauve, & all the members of the D'Arifat family of whose happiness & welfare I should be delighted to hear of - My little Girl does not enjoy the best health, I often think her spirits wear away her strength
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She is so very lively - & is in constant action except when at her lessons - Begging you my dear Sir to accept my highest respect, I conclude by assuring I am your obliged & sincere fd.
Southampton July 24 1817 Ann Flinders
To Mr. Charles Desbassayns
Dear Sir/
I have been constantly flattering myself for the last two years that with the hope of being favored with a few lines from you relative to the little property left in your hands by my late excellent Husband, but every hope has hitherto been chilled by disappointment - In a letter to Mr. T. Pitot of Novr. 1815, I requested him to [indecipherable letter]inform you that it was the wish of the other Trustees as well as myself, that the interest of the money should be remitted yearly to me - I hope this will not be inconvenient to the person who holds the principle -
I believe you are aware that my income is a very limitted one, and as such any addition to it is of consequence to me - Sir Joseph B- who has kindly interested himself greatly in my behalf has not been able in the late, & present pressure of the times to obtain any addition to my pension from Government, neither do I believe anything further will be granted - my claims have been allowed, but Alas! the services & misfortunes of my Husband seem already now to be forgotten - The publication of his Voyage has produced me nothing yet, neither dare I flatter myself with hopes on that head - thus you will perceive my dear Sir that the whole of my income arises from my pension & the interest of the little property left by Capt. Flinders, you will not therefore wonder that I am anxious to receive the interest of the Money left with you - I shod, hope by this time it may be on its way to England, accompanied by a letter from yourself, in which it will give me great pleasure to find an account of the good health & happiness of Madame Desbassyns, yourself & little Ones - My Anne has but an indifferent state of health, but her vivacity is unbounded - Favor me by accepting my respectful regards, & presenting them also to Madame D- and believe me dear Sir your obliged & very sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton July 24 1817
Address to me under cover at to Robt. Brine Esqre.
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To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir
Three years having now elapsed since the publication of the Investigator's voyage, I feel some degree of anxiety to enquire after its fate, but at the same time I must confess that I am apprehensive that little or no success has hitherto attended it otherwise your kind heart would have hastened to give me the pleasing intelligence - It has indeed been brought before the public at a most unfortunate period, but the pressure of the Times has made greatly against my interest in every point of view - It is now a year & a half since I have heard anything from Sir J. B- he then gave me very flattering hopes that something would be done for me, but all seems to have died away in forgetfulness - We are well satisfied with the change of residence which we made last year, having all enjoyed much better health since we came to this place - My little Girl is but indifferent at present, having caught a sad cold which is attended by a very distressing cough, her spirits are at all times unbounded, I often think them too much for her strength - I hope this will find you, Mrs. N & Miss W- all in the enjoyment of perfect health; My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in kind & respectful compliments to yourself & the Ladies - I remain my dear Sir your truly obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Glos'ter Square
Southampton July 1817
To James Henckell Esqre.
Dear Sir/
I again take the liberty of committing to your care, a packet of letters for the Mauritius, and shall feel much obliged if you will have the goodness to forward them by the first opportunity - I hope when you and Mrs. Henckell left this neighbourhood you had a safe & pleasant journey home; I was much gratified by the call you so obligingly made as it afforded me the opportunity pleasure of seeing
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you both in tolerable health; should you be induced to visit Southampton another summer, I shall dare to flatter myself with the hope that the family at No 2 Glos'ter Square will not be forgotten by you - My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in most respectful compliments to yourself, & to Mrs. & Miss Henckell -
I remain dear Sir your much obliged
Southampton & obt. Sert. Ann Flinders
July 1817
To Mr. T. Pitot
Dear Sir/
Your last obliging favor has given me a considerable share of uneasiness, I had long been anxiously looking for remittances from Mr. Labauve & Mr. C. Desbassyns, & I felt much disappointment on the perusal of your letter at its contents concerning my little affairs in the hands of those Gentlemen, I am grieved indeed on this account as well as my own, that the payment of such small sums should be any difficulty with them - I hope that ere this you have recd, my letter of July 1817, & that you have kindly forwarded its enclosure to Mr. C. Desbassyns, on the perusal of which I trust he will use his exertions to remit me the interest due from 1815 - otherwise I shall be under the necessity of calling in the whole, that I may have it placed in England, where altho' the interest is less, I can receive it the day it is due - I hope too that Mr. Labauve will also exert himself in my behalf, I do not wish to be importunate, or to inconvenience him, but I would beg him to remember how I am circumstanced & the smallness of my income - I have not heard anything from Sir A. Campbell relative to the price of the book committed to his care, I have requested Mr. Brine (my agent) to find him & obtain the money, I wish you had said when you he expected to be in England - neither have I heard anything of Govr. Farquhar, perhaps he is not yet arrived, I will write again to Mr. C. D- by this opportunity & will
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thank you to forward it to him as soon as possible - I beg to thank you dear Sir for your kind attention to my concerns, & the trouble you have taken in them, I hope ever to feel the liveliest gratitude towards you for these repeated marks of your friendship shewn to the desolate Widow of your friend -
I remain with the greatest respect my dear sir
Your truly obliged & sincere fd.
Ann Flinders
Southampton Jany. 22d. 1818
To Mr. C. Desbassayns
Dear Sir
I am still without any letter or information from you, which not only surprises but grieves me, I had hoped long before this to have recd, an account of the money vested in your hands by my late inestimable Husband, according to the wish I expressed in the first letter which I had the honor to address to you in Decr. 1814; three years have rolled away since then, & I have never been favored with a single line from you either on the above subject, or relative to the interest, which I begged Mr. Pitot to inform you I wished to be remitted every year; I am at a loss to account for your silence on these matters, and earnestly beg of you to clear up the apparent mystery of attending this affair - I wrote to you last July, which letter I hope you have ere this recd, I mentioned in it, how very acceptable a remittance from you would be in the present circumscribed state of my income, & I again repeat, that nothing further has been accorded me from the Admiralty, neither has any profit yet arisen from the publication of the Voyage - I hope when before you receive this letter that you will have been able to send me the interest for the last three two years, I shall be sorry to order the principle to be paid in, but this I shall be obliged to do if your friend cannot let me have the interest yearly, which is necessary to the comfort of my child & myself, and also for the satisfaction of the other trustee, who is with me greatly surprised at your continued silence -
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I hope this will find you with every member of your family enjoying perfect health, and as much felicity as this chequered earthly scene can possibly bestow, I beg my respectful compliments to Madame D- and remain my dear Sir yours with much esteem & respect
Ann Flinders
Southampton
Jany. 22d. 1818
To Sir Joseph Banks
It is with no small degree of anxiety & perturbation that I intrude myself once again on the notice of Sir Joseph Banks but the period of two years having elapsed, since I had the honor of receiving any communication from him, I am led to apprehend that the claims which Lord Melville was pleased to allow I possessed, thro' the merits & services of Capt. Flinders for an increase of pension, are forgotten - more particularly as I understand something considerable has been granted to the Widow of Capt. Tuckey, I cannot be a judge of the services which of that lamented officer, but it appears a singularly hard case that those of Capt. Flinders shod. continue to be intirely overlooked, more especially as several individuals are at present turning to advantage, both to themselves & the public, the important discovery & observations which he made on the variation of the compass - May I be allowed to call the attention of Sir J. B. for a moment to another subject, I mean the publication of Capt. F-s voyage, it has never yet yielded the least profit, and from the Admiralty giving away the Charts, there is great reason to believe that neither myself, nor child will ever receive any emolument from it - Under the pressure of disquietude arising from the foregoing circumstances, I venture to ask Sir J. B's opinion, whether he thinks there is any hope that the Admiralty will remember me with an increase of pension? I would offer every possible apology for the liberty I am taking, and at the same time tender my most sincere acknowledgments for the interest which Sir J. B- has thus far taken in my concerns - I beg with the deepest sense of gratitude to subscribe myself his most Obt. Sert.
Ann Flinders
Southampton
Feby. 20th. 1818
[Page 335]
To Sir J. Banks
Sir/
I beg leave to offer you my best & most grateful thanks, for the unremitted attention you have kindly condescended to pay to my interest, and however painfully disappointed I may feel at the final determination of Lord Melville, I must ever entertain the highest respect for yourself who have so earnestly pleaded my cause - Once more apologising for all the trouble I have occasioned you, and affirming my ardent wishes for your speedy return to health, I have the honor to Sir to subscribe myself your greatly obliged &
most Obt. Sert.
Southampton Ann Flinders
April 8th. 1818
Thus has this affair ended in a blank, after being kept nearly four years in suspense -
To the Revd. Charles Jerram
My dear Sir/
The very great kindness I experienced from you, during my residence at Chobham, gives me courage to solicit a favor of you, but it will first be necessary to give you my reasons for taking such a liberty - It is now nearly four years since the death of my dear Captain Flinders, during which time I have had strong hopes given me that on account of his services, the admiralty would make an addition to my pension, but after considering the matter thus long, I last week recd, a letter from Sir J.B. (who has been pleased to use his utmost efforts on my behalf,) informing me that, Lord Melville, who always expressed himself a sincere wish to serve to me, and who repeatedly told Sir J. B. he was in hopes of finding the means; a short time ago declared himself utterly unable to find out any way of adding to my income, without opening a door to other claimants, which he did not dare to do - My cause it appears has been lost for want of president, Captain Flinders not dying in actual service - I have more than once been advised to state my case to the East India Company, but so long as Sir J. B. had it in hand, I did not feel myself at liberty to do so, but as
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that difficulty is now removed, I have some thoughts of adopting the measure, more especially as I have been taught to believe, that the labours of Capt. Flinders may be of advantage to the east india commerce, as well as the Navy and Science in general; the known liberality too of that board to those who have been in the least useful to it, encourages me to make the attempt, and to this end I think of venturing to address myself to Lord Teignmouth - now my dear Sir the favor I would request of you is, that, should his Lordship wish to make any enquiries respecting me, so as to satisfy himself that I am the person I represent myself to be, you would kindly permit me to refer him to you on this head, as I am of course a stranger to him, altho' I believe Capt F- was not entirely unknown - I would also beg of you to favor me with his Lordships address, as the one I have was obtained in 1810, and he may since then have changed his residence -
My Mother & Sister unite with me in offering to yourself and Mrs. Jerram our kindest respects, & in love to Miss Jerram & the young Ladies Gentlemen -
I beg leave my dear Sir to subscribe
myself with much gratitude
Your obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
You will oblige me much by not mentioning the subject of this, beyond the bosom of your own family - An early reply will be esteemed a favor -
Southampton April 13th. 1818
To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir
Two or three months ago I recd, a letter from Mr. Pitot saying that he had remitted to me the price of one copy of the voyage, by Sir Alexr. Campbell & also the price of another by Governor Farquhar, the former of these gentlemen arrived in England several months ago, and the latter about two months since, from neither of whom have I heard a single word - From Mr. Brine I learn that General Campbell is now residing at Teignmouth in Devon - What must be done concerning this matter, is it necessary that I should write to them? With respect to Govr. F- I do not know where to address him, perhaps you could commission some one to find him out, which might probably be easily done
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by enquiring at Sir Walter Farquhar's, who is I believe his father - Mr. Pitot also tells me that he has to remit the price of another copy and of two Atlases, which he will do by the first proper opportunity - I am almost afraid to enquire after the sale of the Publication, I wrote to you last July on the subject, but as I never recd, any answer to my enquiries, I felt certain that you had no good news to send me about it - do you think the copy right would sell to any advantage? I begin to feel anxious to gain something by it - If you have lately seen Sir J. Banks he may perhaps have told you that, Lord Melville has declared himself utterly unable to find the means of adding to my pension, on the plea that Capt. F- did not die in actual service; I make no comments, you will readily guess my sentiments on the subject; thus you see my dear Sir I have nothing to look to for an enlargement of income, unless the publication should afford a little profit, perhaps you can say whether you think I may at any time anticipate some help from it -
Allow me to enquire how have been in the late cold & humid winter, I hope that you & Mrs. Nicol have have not suffered in health from it - My little Girl has been very ill with the hooping cough, fever etc but is now better - I beg of you to accept my best respects & present them also to Mrs. Nicol - with kind remembrance to Miss Wilson I remain my dear Sir
Your greatly obliged
Ann Flinders
Southampton April 16th. 1818
To the Revd, Chas. Jerram
My dear Sir/
Your kind acquiscence with my request and your advice as to my manner of procedure, calls for my warmest thanks - I had drawn up a rough copy of a letter to Lord Teignmouth, the whole of which I will take transcribe for your information, begging the favor of your opinion & corrections - I would ask if you think a similar one to Mr. Grant will answer, or shall I throw it into any other form? I observe what you say respecting Mr. Parry, but here another question arises, may I not be taking too great a liberty in requesting of Mr. Grant this favor, considering that I am an entire stranger?
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but you know the best on this head, & I shall abide by your opinion - In addition to what I have stated to Lord T- respecting the Admiralty refusing me any increase of pension, I would say to you that, they have lately allowed something very considerable to the Widow of Capt. Tuckey, who died in the African expedition of discovery, & who certainly could not have atchieved services at all equal to those which Capt. F- rendered - I believe Capt. F- is the first Discoverer employed by the english Govt. whose Widow is left with no other provision by it, than the base pension according to her husband's rank - The beautiful Suckling arrived perfectly safe last night for which we all unite in best thanks to yourself and Mrs. Jerram, pray tell your little Sam that according to his request, it was presented to little Anne & his Sweet Creature, from whom their two Mama's recd. polite invitations to dinner this day, when we all fed luxuriously on the dainty dish & enjoyed it exceedingly We are much obliged for the book you have kindly sent us - we had been wishing to see it, & shall peruse it with much interest, the one for Mr. Chamberlyne was sent to him to day - How very provoking the mistake of your printer, but as the subject is now of general interest I shod. hope your publication will find a ready sale - We are sorry to hear you & Mrs. Jerram have been so unwell; I believe the season has been a trying one to many people, my dear Mother was certainly very ill, but I hope she is now nearly recovered - Your communication respecting Mrs. N- surprised me for the moment, altho' on reflection I shod, never be surprised at any choice she might make, after the her former one, don't think me illnatured, I am by no means singular in my ideas on this subject - Mr. J- was I believe her first admirer - I heard from her not long since, when she told me that she thought of leaving Hull, & taking a house at Henley - will you favor me with Lord T-s address in your next - we all unite etc etc
AF-
Southampton April 17th. 1818
To Sir Alexr. Campbell, Teignmouth Devon
Sir/
About three months ago I recd, a letter from Mr. Thos. Pitot of the Mauritius dated Augt. 1817, informing me that, he had requested you to remit me the price of a copy of the late Capt. Flinders' voyage, but as I have not been favored with any intelligence from you, I am appre-
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apprehensive that you may not be in possession of my address, I therefore take the liberty of subjoining it, and trust you will allow me to hope for the pleasure of hearing from you soon on the subject -
I have Sir the honor to subscribe
April 21st. 1818 myself Your Obt. Servt.
Ann Flinders
Address Mrs. Flinders, Glos' ter Square, Southampton
To Govr. Farquhar, 16 St. James's Street
London
To the same purpose & on the same date
To Lord Teignmouth
My Lord/
I am conscious that in addressing myself to your Lordship, some apology is necessary for the intrusion, more especially as I am an utter stranger, yet I feel that I must throw myself intirely upon your goodness entreating pardon for the liberty I am taking in soliciting your notice to the statement I wish to make - Believing your Lordship to be acquainted with the name of Capt. Flinders, & the services he rendered to navigation & geography in his voyage to, & survey of Terra Australis, I venture to lay before you the situation in which as his widow I am unhappily placed - It is now nearly four years since his death, & during that period, I have had many hopes held out to me, that on account of his services my pension would be encreased, Lord Melville having allowed to Sir Joseph Banks, who has strongly advocated my case, that my claims thro' the merits of my husband were well founded, & always said that he hoped to be able to find the means of assisting me; but I last week lately recd, a letter from Sir J. B. informing me that, a short time ago Lord M- declared himself utterly unable to enlarge my income, without opening a door for other claimants, which he did not dare to do - Thus my Lord it appears that, my claims altho well founded, are refused for want of presidents, Capt. F- not having died in actual service, a distinction which the Admiralty most steadily adheres to - It is true he did not die at sea, or on a foreign shore, but he certainly did lose his life in the execution of his duty - Will your Lordship allow me to state the fact? Capt. F- was more than nine years absent from his country & his family, & during that period was detained six years a prisoner in the Mauritius, by which most
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most distressing circumstance he not only lost five years of his rank, but was prevented doing anything in aid of his family - in this cruel confinement was laid the foundation of a painful & fatal disease - At his return to England he was employed by the Admiralty, to write an account of his voyage & in order to finish this correctly & with all possible expedition he allowed himself time neither for exercise, nor proper rest, this very close application encreased the painful malady before mentioned, a malady which undermined a naturally strong constitution, & terminated his valuable life, this mournful circumstance deprived the navy of an excellent and deserving officer, science of an able, active & enterprising navigator, & myself & child of a most affectt. husband & father; thus he certainly died a victim to his country's service altho' not at sea, or on a foreign shore, The Charts of the voyage are such, I am told, as have never before been presented to the public, for accuracy, neatness & the fund of nautical information contained in them - the publication of the voyage, (a copy of which was presented to the East India Company) I am sorry to say has never yet I believe cleared the expences, & I greatly fear but little profit may ever be expected from it, copies to the amount of nearly £100 were lost by fire at P. L. in the Mauritius, where they had but just arrived for sale - Capt. F- amongst his other services, made some important discoveries respecting the causes of variation in the magnetic needle, which is likely to be of material benefit to navigation, but neither he, nor his family ever obtained any advantage from them, on the contrary others are building superstructures on the foundation of his observations & labours, & of course gaining a profit by them - I am fearful of wearying your Lordship's patience, but I would entreat your indulgence a few moments longer, whilst I beg permission to explain my motives for thus intruding myself on your notice - The well known liberality of the East India Company, leads me to indulge a hope that, were the peculiar hardship of my case presented to the Directors they might be induced, amongst their various acts of benevolence made to the relatives of those who have been useful to science & navigation, to grant some kind benefaction to the widow of a Man, whose labours I have been taught to believe, would ultimately prove of benefit to the east india commerce - Should your Lordship condescend to take my case into consideration, & deem it worthy to be made known to the court of Directors, & shod, wish for any further information respecting myself I have permission to give a reference to the Revd, Charles Jerram, vicar of Chobham, to whom I am well known
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With sentiments of the highest respect, I have the honor to subscribe myself your Lordship's
Most Obt. Servt.
Ann Flinders
Should your Lordship think that any hope of success might be indulged from an application to the East India Company, I shod, feel deeply obliged if you would favor me with your direction in what manner to proceed -
Southampton April 27th. 1818
To Charles Grant Esqre. M.P.
A Copy of the same - at the same time
To Geo. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir
Your repeated kind offers call for many thanks, and as you give me permission, I will venture to draw upon you for the sum of £40 - if you can let me have it according to your proposal last year, free of interest, & also without expectation of its being called for again, as you must be well aware that, for needy folks to refund money is a very difficult matter, & I freely confess my inability on that head, with so small an income as I possess; besides I shod, never have a days peace if I supposed that the profits of the voyage woud. not repay you - I shod. feel particularly obliged by a knowledge of the accounts, as I could then form a better idea how far I might dare to draw on your generosity - I much wish that Sir J. B- would do, as your kind heart prompts you to hope he might, respecting my little Girl, but I dare not indulge such an idea, for I cannot flatter myself that I, or mine will be any longer remembered, now all is finally settled at the Admiralty; Sir J. B- has such a multiplicity of objects continually pressing on his attention, I cannot suppose such insignificant beings as we are, should ever again call forth a thought, but rest assured my dear Sir your hint shall never be divulged - I was grieved to hear of his indisposition, but think he may have been much hurried by the preparations for the Northern
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expedition, as no doubt but he would be consulted on all measures relating to it - I shod, hope the officers of this voyage of discovery are all unmarried, otherwise there is a world of anxiety to be experienced by their poor Wives, I trust however that they will not be called to endure nine years of miserable abscence as I did, but this is a subject which will not bear reflection even now -
My Mother & Sister beg to unite with me in best respects to yourself & Mrs. Nicol, with kind remembrance to Miss Wilson, & by way of chit chat I would tell her that, I lately heard of a grand Christening made for our cousin Charles Frost's third child, where all went off with great eclat - Mrs. Street it seems has commenced authoress again, a new novel from her pen is I see announced for publication - Forgive this prasing my dr. Sir, for I feel that I am encroaching on your time as well as your good nature -
I remain with the highest respect
Your greatly obliged
Ann Flinders
Southampton May 1st. 1818
To Govr. Farquhar
Sir
I confess that I was surprised to find by your obliging favor, you did not recollect the circumstance of Mr. Pitot having requested you to settle with me for the price of a copy of my late Husband's voyage, as from a letter of his I was led to conclude this had been the case; the paragraph I will take the liberty of copying for your information -"General Sir Alexr. Campbell having returned to England, promised me to pay into your hands the price of one of the copies of my friend's voyage, which he recd, from me, I gave him your address, and hope that little object is now settled - Govr. Farquhar is now also on the eve of his departure for England, and being also a purchaser of a copy, I will beg him to settle for the price in the same way" - You will perceive Sir by this that it was Mr. Pitot's intention to make the request, altho as you do not recollect it, I must suppose it did not occur to his memory at the time of your leaving the Mauritius - The praise you bestow on the work is very gratifying to the feelings of my heart, as I am taught to believe it is just, the charts I understand are, for neatness, accuracy, & the fund of nautical in-
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information contained in them, such as have never before been given to the public - The price of the Publication altogether is eight guineas, which you can remit to me, in any way the most convenient to yourself or if you please you can order it to be paid to my agent Robt. Brine Esqre. 3 Clifford's Inn -
I have the honor to remain Sir
your obliged & Obt. Sert.
Anne Flinders
Southampton
May 15th. 1818
To the Revd, Charles Jerram
My dear Sir/
As you were so kind as to take an interest in my concerns, I fear you will be ready to charge me with a degree of Ingratitude that, I have never yet informed you how my negociation with the India Directors terminated, I have repeatedly formed the intention of writing to you but a something has arisen continually to prevent me fulfilling that intention - From Lord Teignmouth I recd. a polite reply, in about a week after I addressed him, in which he informed me that, "the services performed by Capt. Flinders, however meritorious do not constitute an admissable claim to the E.I.C- from Mr. Grant I recd, no answer whatever, I therefore conclude that his opinion was also in the negative - I cannot say that I felt in the least disappointed on the subject, for hope had never flattered me with even a faint belief that anything would be done, and your judgment was perfectly correct when you said that, past disappointments had taught me not to be over sanguine", I have often thought, and every circumstance of my life seems to strengthen the idea, that it is not the will of Providence that I shod, possess earthly riches, at this I cannot, I dare not repine, possessing as I do every comfort of life, indeed when I consider that I am better provided for than half the Widows in land I feel constrained to say, "Bless the lord Oh my Soul & all that is within me bless his holy name, what can I render unto the lord for all his benefits" and more especially when I would humbly hope that a measure of his grace is given unto me, altho
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on this point, many shadows; and many doubts too often hang - We were much gratified on the arrival of Miss Jerram's kind Messinger, to learn you were all in the enjoyment of health, we trust the blessing will be long continued, the season has been a very trying one to many, my dear Mother is still an invalid, she is now suffering from a severe cold, but I am happy to say she has not had any return of her former distressing malady; I hope this lovely genial weather will be blessed as a means of her recovery, we are all delighted with this old fashioned Spring, does not Mrs. Jerram enjoy it? Miss J- gives us a hope, in distant perspective tis true, that we may have the pleasure of seeing you & herself at Southampton during the ensuing vacation, we shall be much rejoiced to have this hope realised, and doubly so if dear Mrs. J- shod, be of the party - We would congratulate you on the vicarage being again engaged, and also that you are to have such an amiable family in it - etc etc I remain my dear Sir with much respect & gratitude your greatly obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton June 4th. 1818
To Mr. Thos. Pitot
Octr. 9th. 1818
My dear Sir/
I am beginning to entertain apprehensions that my letters may be considered troublesome to you, and were I not well assured of your readiness to serve me, I should indeed be fearful of addressing you again respecting my affairs in your part of the world, but I will rely with confidence on your kindness, to the Widow of a friend whom you highly respected, and once more intreat the favor of you to enquire for me of Mr. Charles D- the cause of his inflexable silence concerning the little property left with him under his care, I am constrained to think his conduct towards me neither friendly nor polite, if it has been inconvenient to him to remit the interest, he might at least condescend to give me his reasons for it - I wrote to you in Jany. last enclosing a letter for Mr. C. D- and least it shod, not have reached him I enclose now send a
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duplicate of it, begging you to forward it to him, shod, he not have written to me before it arrives - I am also still without any intelligence or remittance for M. Labauve, as such I fear his circumstances remain embarrassed, for I feel well persuaded he would fulfill his engagements with me were he able, it is however unfortunate for me and mine that he is unable - Since I last had the pleasure of addressing you, I have recd, the price of the Voyage namely 8 guineas from Govr. Farquhar, and also from Sir Alexr. Campbell, both of whom had forgot the debt, until reminded of it, but both were very polite when I wrote to them on the subject - - The Admiralty has at length determined not to allow me any augmentation of pension, Sir Joseph Banks very earnestly and repeatedly urged my claims, and Lord Melville as often gave him hopes of success, but after keeping me in painful suspense nearly four years, it now discovered that, altho my claims were allowed to be well founded, yet as Capt. Flinders did not die in actual service, no advance of pension could be granted, because the case was unprecidented, thus my dear Sir I have nothing to look to now for the support of myself & child but my the common allowance to a Post Captain's widow, & the interest arising from the very little property left by my lamented Husband - Will you favor me by explaining this to Messrs. Desbassayns & Labauve, it may possibly be a means of expediting their remittances - You mention in your last obliging Messenger that, y which bears date Augt. 7th 1817, that, you have the price of another copy of the voyage, and also of two Atlases to remit to me, I shall be very glad to receive the remittance whenever it arrives - Should I hear nothing from Mr. C. D- in the course of 12 months fm. the date of this, my next letter to you will be to request the favor of you, to call in the money at Bourbon, and forward it to me by the first safe & eligible opportunity - I was very much concerninged at reading the account of the dreadful hurricane which devasted your Island in the Spring,
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I would willingly flatter myself that your property did not suffer materially by it - but the loss sustained by many must have been very great - May I beg of you to present my respectful regards to all the individuals of the D'Arifat family, & also to those of your own household, taking to yourself a large portion of the same - hoping that you will write to me soon after you shall have recd, this, I beg to subscribe myself your greatly obliged & sincere fd,
Ann Flinders
Octr. 9th. 1818
To Mr. Charles Desbassayn
Sir
Being still without any intelligence from you I must suppose that my last letter cannot have reached you, I shall therefore take the liberty of recopying it for your perusal, and must entreat of you a reply to it, if you have not already sent one -
See letter dated Feb 3. 20th. Jany. this year -
To Mr. DuBoisson
Mrs. Flinders begs leave to confide to Mr. DuBoisson's care the enclosed packet for Mr. Pitot, which she is anxious should be forwarded by the first opportunity, she has long expected to hear from the Mauritius but is daily disappointed, and is therefore the more desirous that the enclosed shod, go as soon as possible - Mrs. F- requests Mr. D- to accept her best compts. and present the same to Mr. Henckell & family -
Southampton Octr. 9th. 1818
My dear Miss Toomer
I must once again resign into your hands the collecting books etc of the Bible Association; I am on some accounts loath to give them up, but my health requires that I shod., for the last three months I have in general been very indifferent, and have at times found much difficulty in making the weekly collections small as the number of subscribers are - I shod, feel more regret in the resignation of my office, had not several collectors been added to the number
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within the last ten months, this however being the case, I have no doubt but many will be found far more competent to the place than myself, for I must acknowledge that the duties of the office have not been fulfilled altogether as I could have wished - I have not called on Mrs. Curry etc etc You will probably wonder I did not mention my intention to you, when I saw you last, I then thought of continuing in the office a while longer but every day warns me to resign before the Winter sets in, as such I now give it into better hands,
Begging my kind respects to Mrs. Toomer
I remain my dr. Miss T-
Yours with much regard
Ann Flinders
Glos'ter Square
Novr. 2d 1818
To Mr. Brine
My dear Sir
Some circumstances have arisin which obliges me to solicit your advice & assistance once again - It will be necessary to inform you that I have never been able to obtain any interest for the money left by Captain Flinders in the hands of Mr. Charles Desbassayns in Bourbon, altho he has been repeatedly written to on the subject by Mr. Thomas Pitot & myself - In a letter I recd, the other day fm. Mr. P- he informs me that the affairs of Mr. C. D. are much involved, and tho he possesses the finest & most beautiful estates in the Island, yet they are so deeply mortgaged that shod, his sugar crops fail, it is supposed he will be unable to pay his debts, Mr. P- therefore advises me without delay to send out to him a Power of Attorney to enable him to call in in the money, principal & interest before things come to a crisis - This I feel necessary to be done as soon as possible, unfortunately Mr. P-s letter has been nine months in coming, the vessel it was sent by having been detained four months for repairs at the Cape - Will you then have the goodness to procure
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for me a proper Power of Atty. for Mr. Hursthouse and myself to sign - appointing Mr. E.T. Pitot our Atty. of the Island of Mauritius our Atty. and empowing him to call in all monies, interest as well as capital X due to us as joint Trustees to the Will of the late Matthew Flinders, Capt. in his Brittannic Majesty's R. N.- You had better let me have it first, and by my signature Mr. H- will understand what is to be done, I can forward it to him - The Property in Bourbon amounts now to about 1100, and therefore too much to lose - there is also near 100 in the hands of a person in the Mauritius, which Mr. P- finds it difficult to obtain -
X in the hands of Individuals belonging to the Islands of Mauritius & Bourbon -
The Power given by Capt. F- to Mr. P- is by his demise of course rendered null & void,- I hope this business will be not give you much trouble, for I really know no one so well qualified as yourself to assist me in this it-I rely my dear Sir on your repeated kindness to pardon me for troubling you in this business, I know no other person so well qualified as yourself to assist me in it -
I remain your obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
My Mother & Sister beg their united best Compliments,
Southampton Jany. 21st. 1819
Mrs. Flinders would feel herself particularly obliged to Mr. Smith if he would allow her an interview with him of about five minutes with him, at any hour, tomorrow or on Monday in which it may be the most convenient to him; either tomorrow or on Monday she when she will have the pleasure of waiting upon him where where he may appoint - Mrs. Flinders is [indecipherable] aware fearful that she is taking a liberty, but the politeness she has ever experienced from Mr. Smith encourages her to hope for he will pardon this intrusion as it relates to a legal matter in which she is rather at a loss -
8 East Street
Feby. 5th. 1819
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To Mr. Hursthouse
My dear Sir/
I am under the necessity of troubling you with a legal piece of business, which I shod, have been very glad to have avoided, but I find from the latest accounts from the Mauritius that it appears necessary, otherwise we may not obtain the money from that place of some time, for I understand Mr. Desbassayns has involved himself very deeply by his speculations, & altho he possesses the finest estate in Bourbon, & the money is secured on the most beautiful valuable part of it, I fear it will be a difficulty to get it paid in - Mr. Pitot was the gentleman whom Capt. Flinders appointed his Agent in all his affairs in that quarter, & he left a Power of Atty. with him for that purpose, but of course his death unhappily rendered it null & void; Mr P- has written many times to Mr. D- on the subject, but has never been able to obtain the interest, and it is his advice that we shod, immediately send out powers to him to take enable him to take proper steps to obtain both principle & interest - In April next it will amount to about £1750, Mr. Labauve too, who was to have paid for the cattle, had not done it so when Mr. P- wrote, his affairs have also been in a very confused state, I shod, hope however by this time he may have been able to discharge his little debt - - I have got a proper Power of Atty. & Duplicate made out, which I shall forward to you by the Coach, both to be executed by you in the same way I have already done, namely before two witnesses, one of whom must swear to, & fill up the affidavit adjoined before the Mayor or chief Magistrate of Wisbeach, & get the Corporate seal affixed - After which I will thank you to make it with paper into a sufficiently large parcel not to be lost, & forward it by Coach to R. Brine Esqre. 3 Clifford's Inn, London - as soon as possible, as I hope for an early opportunity of forwarding it to the Mauritius - It will be adviseable to send the duplicate to Mr. Pitot
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by a future opportunity, lest the first shod, not reach him, You will see they are made very full, to enable Mr. Pitot to appoint a substitute to act, shod, he be rendered by sickness or otherwise incapable - I intend if it meets your approbation to desire Mr. P- when he has obtained the money to remit it to England by the first safe opportunity that we may place it with the rest - We might place it out at the Mauritius on interest as high as 18 or 20 per cent, but I begin to grow weary the distance is so great, & the opportunities of hearing receiving intelligence so limited that perhaps it would be better to have it home - I shall be happy to hear that you with Mrs. Hursthouse & family are all quite well - My Anne is now growing a great Girl, she will be seven years old the first of April, her capacity is good, but her spirit is a very high one, her health I am happy to say is much better this winter than it had been for a very long time - I learn from Miss Jerram that Mrs. H & her Daughters have been visiting at Chobham lately, where they were all well, Mrs. H- thinks of taking the young Ladies them to Paris at Midsummer, I understand they are very amiable young women -
I beg of you to present my kind respects to Mrs. H- and also to Mrs. H- Snr. when you have an opportunity Requesting you also to accept the same
I remain dear Sir
Yours with much respect
Ann Flinders
Southampton Feby. 10th. 1819
To Mrs. Toomer
My dear Madam/ Feby. 19th. 1819
With this you will receive the Voyage to Terra Australia, I am apprehensive that you will not derive much amusement from it - the country explored by Capt. Flinders, being in general a dreary barren waste, few incidents f arose which could give interest to the work; the account in the second Vol of his melancholy shipwreck, & long, long detention by cruel despotism at the Mauritius, will I doubt not awaken the kind sympathies of your heart,
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and more especially when I add, that from his voyage and imprisonment, I was deprived of his valuable society for more than nine years - This imprisonment laid the foundation of a most distressing internal malady, which in the end consigned him to the tomb - Memory retraces with pain many past scenes of my life, but I dare not repine, much mercy has been blended in the Cup of woe, and I trust afflictions have not passed over me in vain - Miss Anthony's memoirs I will if you please detain a while longer, did I not view her as one peculiarly favored, I shod, feel great discouragement respecting myself, but a gracious God deals variously with his creatures, and it is my consolation that the Scriptures declare, the bruised reed shall not be broken - I remain my dear Madam Yours with much respect
Ann Flinders
To Mr Pitot
My dear Sir/
Your last obliging letter, dated April 25, 1818 (which was unfortunately nine months in coming to England) occasioned me much uneasiness, and has filled me with apprehension lest the money confided to the care of Mr. C. D- should be finally lost; should this be the case, it will prove a great calamity to my dear Anne, as I have always calculated upon the interest arising from it, to enable me to give her such an education as her capacity calls for, and but without this assistance I shall be unable to accomplish this much desired object, and consequently the intruction she will receive must be very limitted - I have however been flattering myself that the remarkably fine season of last summer may have made a very favorable change in Mr. D-s affairs, & that he will have ere this have paid some of the interest into your hands - I have got a Power of Atty. legally executed to empower you to obtain from him the money & the interest due upon it, you will perceive that it is made gives you full powers, but of course you will use you own discretion in using them, I should hope you may be able to call all in without
[Page 352]
having recourse to them, as I shod, be much grieved to occasion Mr. D- any uneasiness - I have a Duplicate of the Power of Atty. which shall be sent by a future opportunity - It has been a very expensive business being obliged to have so many corporate seals attached, I shall at the same time enclose to you the copy of a letter which Mr. D- wrote to you on the subject where in he makes himself fully answerable for the Property - By a calculation made by Captain Flinders I find that in April of this year 1819, it amounts with the interest to 4302,65 - -
At the close of your last letter you tell me Mr. Labauve had promised to pay in ten days into your hands 200 dollars, but as I have recd, no further intelligence from you, I am fearful he did not keep his promise - you will perceive that the Power of Attorney will enable you to obtain the money due from him - I am shall be really much concerned that if such a process shod, be necessary, surely the affairs of both these Gentlemen must be in a deplorable way, otherwise they would long ago have discharged these small debts - shod, you be so fortunate as to obtain the whole of the money owing from these Gents, I shod, be glad to have half of it remitted to me, and the other half I shod, like to leave at the Mauritius if you could you get it placed out at interest on undeniable security, as the interest with you is being so much higher than with us, it would be of great use to me, could I receive the it regularly, I shall however be glad to have your advice & opinion on the subject - I have rec d, the from Govr. Farquhar & Sir A, Campbell the price of the copies of the Voyage taken by them; You mentioned in a former letter having the price of another copy, & also of two Atlases, to remit me, but as you say on nothing on the subject in your last, I imagine you have not found a proper opportunity - As you have constant mercantile business with Messrs. Henckell & Duboisson, could I not receive it thro' that channel if convenient to you? - as also the other monies shod. you be so fortunate as to obtain them? - Shod, you have recd, my letter of Octr. 1818 you will find that I have no advance of pension to expect, the Admiralty having determined against it, because my beloved Husband did not die in actual service, thus I have nothing more than the common allowance of a Post Captain's widow and the interest arising from the very small property left by Captain Flinders - Mr. C. D- & Mr. Labauve's non-payment has been the occasion of [indecipherable] much uneasiness & inconvenience to me - I am grieved to be the cause of giving you such repeated trouble, but I rely on your kindness to pardon it me, and must ever remain your greatly obliged
[Page 353]
and very sincere friend Ann Flinders
Southampton Feby. 24th. 1819
Thus far my dear Sir I had written, when your obliging letter of the 4th. of Decr. last [indecipherable letter] came to hand, containing a bill of Exchange on Greenwood & Co for 65£ - also letters to the above mentioned Gents, but which happily are not wanted - I beg to thank you very sincerely for your kindness, in thus interesting yourself for me - The arrival of this packet has given me great satisfaction, as I find by it Mr. C. D, was in prospect of better times, and that Mr. Labauve had fulfilled his promise respecting the 200 dollars, I hope both those Gents will before long be able to pay what is owing to me without having recourse to the means sent out with this - I shod, wish to have the principle called in from Mr. C. D- so soon as he can possibly pay it, because it is our particular desire to have the half of it remitted to England, as I have before mentioned, and indeed the whole of it, if you shod, think that would answer the best -
I am truly sorry that your colony shod, suffer so materially, from the cruel conduct, and maladministration of my countrymen, Ah my dear Sir, I would they were all like the amiable and exalted friend, whose loss I must forever deplore - I saw by the publick papers that M. G. Hall was coming home in disgrace, but I have not heard how circumstances are likely to be with him - I entreat of you to accept my most grateful thanks for your continued kindness & attention to my interest, and I remain with sentiments of great respect, your much obliged friend -
Ann Flinders
My little Girl is tolerable at present, her health in general is delicate, but her spirits unhounded -
Southampton Feby. 24th. 1819
To Mr. Duboisson
Southampton Feby. 24th. 1819
Sir/
The Packet you were so obliging as to send by the Coach, came safe to hand, and I beg you to accept my best thanks for your kind attention in forwarding it by that means, I have requested Mr. Brine to repay you, what I am in your debt for postage
[Page 354]
when he leaves sends this at to your Office - He will at the same time give to your care a packet for Mr. Pitot, which I will trouble you to forward for by the first opportunity that occurs, I would mention that It contains a Power of Atty. to enable Mr. Pitot to obtain for me some little property left by Capt F in the Islands of Bourbon & Maurtius; I mention the contents that you may know why I am anxious for its early conveyance - It gave me real pleasure to hear that Mr. & Mrs. Henckell are in tolerable health, I felt much concern at seeing Mr. H- so greatly enfeebled when he & Mrs. H- kindly favored me with a call when they were last at Southampton - the polite & friendly attention which I have experienced from them, gives me a lively interest in their welfare, and I am always happy to hear of them -
Begging you Sir to accept my respectful compliments, & to pardon the repeated trouble I give you
I remain your greatly obliged &
Obt Sert.
Ann Flinders
Any future letters fm. Mr. Pitot, I will thank you to address to me East Street, as we have removed from Glos'ter Square -
To Mr. Brine
My dear Sir/
I am glad you have recd, the Powers safe and that Mr. Hursthouse got them properly executed I really could not help laughing, when I read his letter, to find that a special meeting of the Burgesses of Wisbech was obliged to be called on the so trivial an occasion, as the corporate seal is not allowed to be used but in their presence - Mr. Hursthouse has paid £1..10..6, for the due execution, which I will thank you to repay him in the way he may appoint, and I will refer him to you for it - I shall enclose to you in this a bill of exchange for £65.. on Messrs. Greenwood & Co Army Agents, which I shall feel obliged to you to obtain for me, and when I know what you have paid for me in this late affair, I can then inform you what to do with it - The letter for Mr. Pitot I will thank you to put into make into a packet with the Power of Atty. & send to the Messrs. Henckell & DuBoisson with the accom-
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panying note, & be so good as to discharge what I am in their debt for postage, 'tis somewhere about 16/- I think - I shall add a parcel of some Newspapers for Mr. Bonner, by way of making the parcel a respectable size, and shod, you send them by a Porter, let him be paid, & place it to my account, as I do not wish Mr. B- to be at the least expence about them - The other power of Atty. may remain if you please with you until a future another opportunity offers, of which I shall beg Mr. DuBoisson to inform me of And now my dr. Sir let me say to you that I am always grieved when I am thus obliged to trouble you, and I beg of you to accept my best thanks for all your kind attention to my interest -
I remain your greatly obliged friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton Feby. 25th. 1819
To Messrs. Greenwood & Co
Gentlemen
I will thank you to pay into the hands of my Agent Mr. Robt. Brine, the amount of the enclosed bill of Exchange, drawn by Col Dalrymple on your house -
I remain your obt. Sert.
Anne Flinders
Widow of the late Capt. Flinders R.N.
Southampton
Feby. 25th. 1819
To Mr. Hursthouse
My dear Sir/
I have given orders to Mr. Brine, to repay you the expenses you incurred in signing the Powers, therefore if you will either call on him when you visit Town, or request any one else
[Page 356]
so to do, he will discharge the debt; I beg to thank you for the promptitude with which you executed the business, and feel obliged to those Gentlemen who aided you in it - Since I wrote to you, I have recd, a bill of Exchange for 200 dollars, on account of Mr. Labauve in part payment of the 450 - I shall re imburse myself out of it the expenses attending these Powers, and get Mr. Brine to buy the remainder into the five per cents adding it to the property already there, I hope indeed that the Money in Bourbon will be obtained, as I have looked to it the interest of it, to enable me to educate Anne suitably to the capacity she possesses, and for without it the means of education will be very scanty indeed -
And now my dear Sir I have to entreat your attention to an important concern matter, which I wish to consult you upon, in fact my happiness is much concerned in it - since the death of Mr. Newbald, it has been deeply impressed upon my mind to fix upon another Person who might [indecipherable] a guardian to my Child, in case of my own demise, became with you a joined Guardian to my Child - my particular reason for anxiety on this head arises from the idea that, should you also be taken from this earthly scene of things before she comes of Age, the law would consign the care of her to her nearest Male relation, of course this is her Uncle Samuel - I think I need scarcely say to you that, there are few things which could happen in this World, that would give me more real misery of heart to think of - the possibility of such a circumstance would embitter my dying hour, for you will know what he is, and what has long been my opinion of him - it would therefore be a great highly gratifiying to me, if and greatly relieve my mind if you wd. consent to be a joint trustee with [indecipherable] we could mutually fix upon a friend who would undertake the charge conjointly with yourself, in the event of my discease, I have long been looking round the circle of my friends to discover a suitable person, whom we both know, and whose character is estimable to both - For myself I can think of no one so appropriate as The Revd. Charles Jerram of Chobham, he has been known longer to you than to myself, I therefore need not enter on a description of his merits as a Man & a Xtian - I have not mentioned the subject to him, or given the least hint concerning it to any one beyond the bosom of
[Page 357]
my own family - but shod, you approve of the measure I shall will write to him on the subject - We feel greatly obliged to you for your wish to see us in your part of the Country, I can assure you it would afford us real pleasure to visit you, and my Anne would feel great delight in finding herself at play with your little folks, she laments daily and almost hourly the want of companions X - Her present lessons consist of Geography, history, writing, french & english grammar, but she is so very volatile that we find it a difficulty to fix her mind long upon any thing which requires much attention -
X We do look forward with hope that if the purse should grow heavier when we have made a little more progress in learning we may some time have the gratification of accepting your kind invitation - Begging my kind respects to Mrs. Hursthouse and your Mother, and indulging the hope of hearing from you soon, I remain dear Sir
Your obliged & sincere friend
Ann Flinders
Southampton March 18th. 1819
To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir/
I wish to inform you that I have recd, fm. Mr. Pitot a small remittance, being the price of one complete copy of the Voyage to Terra Australis, and of two of the Atlases saved from the fire - Have I your permission to retain this money, or does the still protracted sale of the publication render it necessary that I should remit it to you? - It would give me great pleasure to hear that this voyage was likely to produce some profit, but I fear the present voyages of Discovery, and the numerous travels & tours now offered to the Publick will do away all hope on that head - I have lately seen the voyage reviewed in the Eclectic, and think it the most fair & best written of the three which I have read; do you know whether the Edinburgh reviewers have ever noticed it? - Since last I had the pleasure of
[Page 358]
addressing you we have removed from Glos'ter Sqre. into East Street, which we find a more pleasant situation - My Sister (Miss Tyler) by whom I purpose sending this will, I hope find you with Mrs. Nicol & Miss Wilson quite well, begging you my dear Sir to accept my best respects & present them also to the Ladies, I remain with much real gratitude
Your sincerely obliged
Anne Flinders
Southampton June 9th.
1819
To Mr. Pitot
My dear Sir
Not being favored by any communication from you since your letter of
Decr. 4 1818, and having written to you three times since its arrival, I feel under the necessity of troubling you with a few lines, of and first I would enquire first concerning your health, as I fear from your very long silence that you have not enjoyed a comfortable share of that enestimable blessing, for had you been able I think you woud, have written to me to say how matters went on with Mr. Desbassayns etc - I will hope however that this (shod, it reach your hands) will find you on its arrival is in good health, and that you will be able to write to me soon after its arrival - I feel assured in my own mind that you have not had any good news to communicate otherwise you would have written to me at all events, [indecipherable] for I [indecipherable]am unwilling to believe you have forgotten the widow of your late Friend or have ceased to take an interest in her my affairs - From Mr. Desbassayns I have yet had no intelligence, which I must repeat is both unpolite & ungenerous - May I beg the favor of you to write to me by the earliest opportunity and inform me how Mr. D- is going on, and what are my prospects in that quarter, eleven seven years have now nearly rolled away since my dear Husband left this Mauritius, and almost seven
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earthy scene of things, and in all that time not a line have I recd, from Bourbon, I must confess that I feel much hurt at such treatment, and that from a friend whom Capt. F- valued so highly as he did Mr. C. Desbassayns - M. Labeauve too is also silent, I have heard nothing further from him - From the publication of the voyage I have recd, very little indeed, and that merely by courtesy, Mr. N- having advanced it before the sale has paid the expence of printing - Allow me to say that I shall feel particularly obliged if you will write to me and that as soon as possible after the receipt of this - I wrote to you in Feby. 1819 forwarding Power of Attorney - also in the spring & autumn of last year - I am daily flattering myself with the hope of hearing from you surely I shall not be long disappointed - My Anne grows fast, she is now 9 years of age, and as wild almost as the whirlwind, altho her health is delicate - I would beg kind and best compliments to all the members of your family, as also to those of D Arifat & Labauve -
Accept dear Sir my kindest respects
& believe me your truly obliged fd.
Ann Flinders
Southampton April 1821
I shall send this to Messrs. Henckell & Co who have forwarded my former packets -
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To G. Nicol Esqre.
My dear Sir/
Allow me to hope that you will not deem me an intruding correspondent - I have two pleas for addressing you; first I feel, and have long felt an anxiety to enquire after your health; since I read of the loss you have sustained my imagination has made innumerable flights to Pall Mall, and I have repeatedly thought I would write to Miss Wilson, X but some how I could not accomplish what I wished, Having myself so deeply felt all you have recently been called to suffer, and knowing by dear bought experience that all human consolations in such a case are vain, I forbear to touch further on the painful subject - My second plea is to enquire after the fate of my dear Capt. Flinders' unfortunate publication, do not I entreat you imagine that I want so soon to draw again on your generosity purse, this is not my motive at present, I merely wish for a statement of the account, how the matter stands, whether the sale has cleared the expences of publishing? and whether anything further more can be done towards furthering the sale of it, or what is the best to be done plan to be pursued concerning it? - I can not solicit further pecuniary aid from you without knowing how the accounts stand [indecipherable] us - I would not for the world give you a moments trouble - shod, you feel this request to be such, perhaps Mr. Wm. Nicol woud. favor me with the account - and Miss Wilson to whom I beg my kindest regards would inform me of your health, tho' she will pardon me I am sure when I say I shod, prefer to see its state confirmed
X Whose kind heart I know would have told me how you were,
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by your own hand - My Anne is growing a great Girl; but wild as the winds of Heaven altho' her health is far from what may be termed good -
I remain my dear Sir
with the greatest highest respect
Southampton Your greatly obliged A F-
April 1821
Mrs. Flinders is again under the necessity of troubling Mr. Duboisson with a letter for the Mauritius, which she will thank him to forward by the first opportunity, Mrs. F- would also be obliged to Mr. D- if he would take the trouble to inform her when he last heard from Mr. Pitot - It is now so very long since she has recd, any letters from him that she is fearful he may have fallen a prey to the dreadful epidemic which last year carried off such numbers in that colony - Mrs. Flinders begs Mr. D- to accept her best compliments & present the same to Mr. & Mrs. Henckell & family, she feels anxious [indecipherable] Southampton April 1821
[Transcribed by David Walker for the State Library of New South Wales]