ither knowledge nor experience in astronomical science. The
crews of the two ships also, carefully selected men though they were,
some of whom had been the previous voyage, were morally and physically
bad, and utterly incapable of performing their duty in a proper and
seamanlike manner. A little allowance must be made for the two authors,
for the father suffered severely from rheumatism, the son was of a
scorbutic tendency, and both were unaccustomed to sea life, and doubtless
the hardships inseparable from such a voyage pressed heavily upon them.

A second Journal was published by F. Newbery about the same time, and
Cook hearing of it, sent Anderson, the gunner, to find out the author.
With little difficulty he was found to be Marra, the gunner's mate who
tried to desert at Otaheite, and the publication was stayed till after
the authorised version was out.

A volume of Cook's letters to Dr. Douglas relating to the preparation of
his Journal for the press is preserved at the British Museum, and it
shows how Cook to the very last endeavoured to serve Mr. Forster's
interests, and to smooth matters over so that they could work together.
The last one Dr. Douglas received before Cook's departure was dated from
Mile End, 23rd June 1776, the day before he joined his ship at the Nore.

Dear Sir,

It is now settled that I am to publish without Mr. Forster, and I have
taken my measures accordingly. When Captain Campbell has looked over the
manuscript it will be put into the hands of Mr. Strahan and Mr. Stuart to
be printed, and I shall hope for the continuation of your assistance in
correcting the press. I know not how to recompense you for the trouble
you have had and will have in the work. I can only beg you will accept of
as many copies after it is published as will serve yourself and friends,
and I have given directions for you to be furnished with them. When you
have done with the Introduction, please send it to Mr. Strahan or bring
it with you when you come to Town, for there needs be no hurry about it.
Tomorrow morning I set out to join my ship at the Nore, and with her
proceed to Plymouth where my stay will be but short. Permit me to assure
you that I shall always have a due sense of the favour you have done me,
and that I am with great esteem and regard, Dear Sir, your obliged and
very humble servant,

James Cook.

Notwithstanding the Forsters' endeavour to discount its success by
forestalling the publication by so