TM/4/5 Draft letter from Thomas Manning to Joseph Banks

Copy of a draft letter from Thomas Manning to, it is suggested, Joseph Banks. In the letter he outlines the path he has taken to become familiar with the Chinese language including his stay in France. He writes that he had initially thought of reaching China via Russia. But now asks that he may be able to travel to Canton and reside there for the purpose of studying the language and customs of China. Dated [1806]. Handwritten, 2 pieces, 3 sides