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Copy of a draft letter from Thomas Manning to Joseph Banks. In the letter he outlines the path he has taken to become familiar with the Chinese language including his stay in France. He writes that he had initially thought of reaching China via Russia. But now asks that he may be able to travel to Canton and reside there for the purpose of studying the language and customs of China. Dated [1806]. Handwritten, 2 pieces, 3 sides

"Extracts of three letters from Mr. H. Colebrooke to Dr. W. Carey". These concern the appointment of Dr Wallich at the Botanic Gardens and are dated 6th January, 13 January and 26 January, 1817. At first Colebrooke would not recommend Wallich because he thought another eminent botanist had been appointed but on discovering that this botanist had no wish to travel to India, Colebrooke and Dr Fleming petitioned the Court of Directors, East India Company, with the support of Sir Joseph Banks, for Wallich to be appointed to the role. Handwritten, copied by unknown hand.

These letters range from a criticism of Manning';s mathematical work to a family friend writing to William Manning regarding his concern of Thomas Manning's plan to visit China. Of particular note is a draft letter from Manning to Joseph Banks outlining the route of his Chinese studies and plans to travel to China.