but it was neceƒsary to write before we sail, and
I wished to expreƒs some part of the friendship
I feel for him and to speak thee; for indeed
my love, thou art the end of all my actions.
To live a life of quiet with a comfortable sub-
sistence, with thee, is the utmost of my wishes.
Discovery no doubt has its portion in me, but
it is only the stepping stone by which I hope
to enjoy thy love undisturbed; and believe me
my best beloved, had I a moderate competence
for thee, I should not grieve if the discovery
of New Holland should be reserved to another.
Depend upon my love, thou dearest of women,
and fear only that it should interfere with
the zealous execution of ^ ^my duty. Thou carriest
my heart with thee. How shall I do well without
it and thee. May the God of health crown
thy journey with its reward. Under the care
of thy kind father in law, thou canst not want
comfort; and in the kindest manner give my
affectionate regards to him.
    I should not forget