JAMES OGLETHORPE TO THE TRUSTEES
On board the Ship Anne
8 of the Clock
January 13, 1733
Gentlemen:
We just now discover the coast of America and it proves to be the land which lies off Charles Town. We are not within nine miles distant and can, from the deck with the naked eye, discover the trees just above the horizon, no disagreeable sight to those who for seven weeks have seen nothing but sea and sky. We have had a very favourable passage, considering that we passed the Tropic of Cancer and stood to the Southward 'till we came into 20 Degrees and then stood back again to 32 where we now are. By this means we lengthened our navigation from England above a third, which was done to avoid the fury of the Northwest winds that generally rage in the winter season on the coast of America. We have lost none of our people except the youngest son of Richard Cannon, aged eight months, and the youngest son of Robert Clarke, aged one year and an half, both of whom were very weakly when I came on board and had indeed been half starved through want before they left London as many others were who are recovered with food and care. But these were so far gone that all our efforts to save them were in vain. Doctor Herbert and all on board are in perfect health except Mr. Scott who was bruised with a fall in the last storm. At present we are all in a hurry so must beg leave to refer you for a fuller account to my next letters. We intend to take in a pilot at this place for to conduct us to Port Royal where we shall hire embarkations to carry us to Georgia. I am, Gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant.
[P.S.] I have seen the Governour who came to meet me on my landing and the Speaker of the Assembly also came to pay his compliments to the Trustees. They have promised all assistance. I am just going to return on board 2 of the clock in the morning.
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