MOYES, James
804
Aberdour, Fifeshire
2nd December 1819
My Lord
It is with the utmost reluctance that I presume to trouble your Lordship, but being unacquainted with the proper channel to apply through to any of the persons about to proceed with the Settlers to the Cape of Good Hope. I have therefore presumed to make use of this mode of application, which I humbly trust your Lordship will pardon.
I have for many years been a Captain's Clerk in His Majesty's navy and was Clerk on board the Leander in the Battle of Algiers on the 27th of August 1816. I have ample certificates from my different Captains as also recommendations from several of the most respectable Gentlemen in this Country. Since my Discharge from the Navy I have been unable to obtain any employment as Clerk, or otherwise, trade being so dull in this quarter. Having acquired a pretty general knowledge of agricultural affairs I should wish to join any of the Companies of Settlers about to proceed to the Cape, provided I were acquainted with the proper mode of application, which I trust your Lordship will cause to be made known to me.
I have the honour to be with all due respect
Your Lordship's most obedient and very humble servant
James MOYES