note: transcription publicly contributed - please contact us with comments, errors or omisions

4l
Sable Island 17th June 1853
Dear Sir
The Daring will soon leave with the materials, Captains, passengers and boy of the Amazon. We have had a long and dangerous job with this Ship and our men having behaved extremely well and stuck by me in all my difficulties. I would advise that £20 be allowed them and will advise how it should be divided when you acquaint me of your agreement with my proposal.
Mr. Knock gave up the cooking on the 8th Instant and goes off in the "Daring" expecting soon to have an addition to his family. Before she will be in a condition to return to the Island we will have time to consider whether we can allow her or not. Elizabeth [Iappel?] who has been 13 years with me goes off now in the Daring to be married, and I have given her an order on my agent for her wages. You will please settle with Mr. Knock. The vacancies caused by the above females leaving will be filled by Farquhars two eldest daughters for the present.
When the Daring returns to the Island please send me 5 bbls flour. You may think it strange that I ask so often for flour and bread and in such small quantities. The reason is because neither of these articles will keep sweet on the Island for any length of time especially in summer season. I am in no hurry for it. I have
given