Skip to main content
GSSA
The 1820 Settler Correspondence
 as preserved in the National Archives, Kew
 and edited by Sue Mackay

pre 1820 Settler Correspondence before emigration

ALL the 1819 correspondence from CO48/41 through CO48/46 has been transcribed whether or not the writers emigrated to the Cape. Those written by people who did become settlers, as listed in "The Settler Handbook" by M.D. Nash (Chameleon Press 1987), are labelled 1820 Settler and the names of actual settlers in the text appear in red.

WEEKS, James

Written by Sue Mackay on .

[Transcriber's Note: This is unlikely to be James WEEKS from OSLER's Party

National Archives, Kew CO48/46, 215

62 Berners Street

2 March 1819

Sir,

I am at a loss how to state my views, being but simply a farmer – having herd that Government wishes to encourage persons of that description to the Cape of Good Hope. I beg to know what those encouragements are? As that would in a great measure determine me in the object of contemplation. If the prospects are any way likely to be advantageous I could embark a capital of from two to four thousand pounds. My views are to obtain lands situated on or near the sea coast if possible in order to combine agriculture with commerce. If overtures are made agreeable to common expectation, recommendation and references of the highest respectability will be given – but this much

I have the honor of being troop sergent to Sir Lenard HOLMES Bart in the Isle of Wight Yeoman Cavalry by whom I am well known for loyalty and agricultural ability. I rely on your honor for secrecy till things may be arranged for fear of giving offence to a good landlord, Sir W. OGLANDER, and beg to remain with every possible respect

Your most obed't hbl serv't

James WEEKS

PS A personal interview if proper would be preferred as I leave town tomorrow at 5 o'clock in the afternoon for Barnsley Farm, Isle of Wight

  • Hits: 5689