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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.

AITKEN, Alex

Written by Sue Mackay on .

National Archives, Kew CO48/41, 119

Forfar

20th Sept. 1819

My Lord

Though I have not had the honour of being known to your Lordship, I beg leave most respectfully to solicite your Lordship's friendly aid on the present occasion.

From the encouragement held forth by Government to intended settlers for South Africa, I do not hesitate one moment in offering my services as a Medical adventurer to reside amongst the Colonists, should Government be disposed to allow a small salary which I am hopeful from your Lordship's exalted and well known abilities and that of your other most noble and worthy Colleagues will have the condescending goodness to grant.

I beg to mention I have had a very liberal accademical and medical education, been a voyage to East and West Indies, and been practising medicine several years in this place, farther particulars, I have desired a brother of mine to wait upon your Lordship who is a medical practitioner in High Street, Kingsland.

My Loyalty and ardent attachment to the Royal Family and Present Government is unquestionable and your Lordship may be assured nothing shall be wanting on my part to promote the welfare and prosperity of the Colony and to merit your Lordship's approbation and that of Government on every opportunity.

Certificates of decorum and propriety of character from most respectable authority can be produced when required. Such a distinguished favour ever will be remembered with peculiar sentiments of gratitude and esteem. I am with high consideration.

My Lord

Your Lordships Most obedient humble servant

Alexander AITKEN

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