Typed transcript of letter from John Franklin to his sister Miss Franklin, on the preparations for his first Arctic land expedition, original dated 11 May 1819 Preparation for an expedition; Dr Richardson, Messrs Bach and Hood to join; ship "Prince of Wales" belonging to Hudson's Bay Company; calling at Stromness to collect men and supplies; will go to Fort York then Ahapascan then Stone Lake; getting Indian guides; practising bivouacing, foraging and walking in snow shoes; following Hearne's track; expect to be absent two and a half years; expedition now in public domain so family can mention it; hoping and praying for God's assistance; love and duty to father and family [20th cent]