-rent Countries through which they shall have to travel[.] I hope and wish they may not be exposed to the Same difficulties and hardships which proved So fatal to Land Arctic Expedition – whose return was clouded by the loss of eleven Lives, whilst the Surviving Officers have left in the Country impressions not altogether very creditable to themselves – amongst both the Trading Class of people and the native Inhabitants[.] But it is doubtful whether from the distant Scence of their transactions, that an authentic account of their operations will ever meet the Public eye in England – it is to be presumed, as they themselves will be the publishers of the Journals which will appear – that they will be cautious in not exposing their own errors & want of Conduct[.] In fact one of the Officers was candid enough to confess to me that there were certainly circumstances, which must not be Known – however it is Said that "Stone Sometimes speak"[.]

During my Travels whilst employed in that Enterprize I did Keep a sort of Journal, which for want of paper I have not yet put in order fit to appear or to be shown – besides it contained matter that is not proper should appear at present unless I had a desire to injure some which it is my interest to conceal at least for a time[.] One of the officers aware of this requested me in a particular manner to remain a year or two more in this Country[.] I presume to with a view to let the Storm in some measure subside – or what is as likely – to take advantage of my not being in the way for examination – for in the first Stages of our Travels they were very strenous in their invitation and actually pressed me to consent to accompany them to England – which on their return they appeared as anxious to dissuade me from[.] Necessity rather than persuasion, however, influenced me to remain – my means for future support are too slen[der] for me to give up my Employment[.] But the late revolution in the affairs of the Country, now obliges me to leave it the ensuing year – as the advantages and prospects are too discouraging to hold forth a probability of clearing

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