Provenance note 

These letters, previously located at ML A78-1, were purchased in 1884 from Lord Brabourne by Sir Saul Samuel, the Agent-General for New South Wales. They were transferred to the Mitchell Library in 1910 and were part of the accession which became known as the Brabourne collection. 

The documents in this series include the original folio numbers assigned by Banks, written in ink in an unknown hand in the top right hand corner. 

Some of these letters were used by the compilers of Historical records of New South Wales, vol 1, part 1 (1893). 

The series has been arranged chronologically. 

Background note 

Charles Clerke joined Cook's second Pacific voyage (1772-1775) as second lieutenant on HMS Resolution. Clerke reported to Banks on the seaworthiness of the vessel following the controversial fitting out of the Resolution, and his disappointment at Banks' withdrawal from the voyage. 

Clerke and Banks probably became acquainted on board HM Bark Endeavour (1768-1771). Clerke's commitment to collecting botanical specimens for Banks, and their correspondence, continued until the end of Clerke's life. 

Subjects

Resolution (ship)