succeed in making the admiralty sensible how unjustly I have been
treated, I may perhaps attain my promotion from the date of my
imprisonment.
      Governor King will be arrived in England before this
time. If thou canst find occasion, I should much wish thou wouldst
see him and M^rs King. It may be in his power to do much with the
ministry in my favour, and thy presence and intreaty would great-
ly stimulate him; and although, should a gleam of good fortune
attend me, his exertions may be too late to operate my deliverance,
they will nevertheless be highly favourable to me on my return; I con-
sider him to be one of the most zealous of my friends.
      I am at present with our family on a visit to
some relations in another district of the island, called Moka, where,
as every where else, I am treated with friendship and a compassio-
nate distinction. My friend Pitot visits me every month, and conti-
nues to prove himself the sincere and affectionate friend I have
ever found him.
      The voyage of Mons. Baudin is in publication. I am cu-
rious to know how the work will speak of me and the treatment he
received at Port Jackson. The contrast between his and my reception is
so great, that some management will be required not to expose French
honour to much criticism.
      Adieu, my dearest, my best love. Remember me most af-
fectionately to all the members of thy and my family, and rest con-
fident in the inviolable affection and friendship of thy
                      Matt^w Flinders