Skip to main content
GSSA
The 1820 Settler Correspondence
 as preserved in the National Archives, Kew
 and edited by Sue Mackay

pre 1820 Settler Correspondence before emigration

ALL the 1819 correspondence from CO48/41 through CO48/46 has been transcribed whether or not the writers emigrated to the Cape. Those written by people who did become settlers, as listed in "The Settler Handbook" by M.D. Nash (Chameleon Press 1987), are labelled 1820 Settler and the names of actual settlers in the text appear in red.

CORNER, Mortimer

Written by Sue Mackay on .

National Archives, Kew CO48/42, 189

47 Old Broad St

19th July 1819

 Sir,

I beg leave to offer my services in carrying into effect the arrangements of Government at the Cape of Good Hope. The location of the settlers, the adjustment of boundaries, the regulation of supplies, the settlement of differences and disputes and numerous other incidents, will I conceive, afford employment for an individual like myself, bred in the practice of the law, acquainted with land surveying, building and drawing, and accustomed to business in general. Permit me to add that my character for talents and integrity stands high - that I am young, active and healthy - and have conducted business of great responsibility and difficulty with advantage to my employers and credit to myself. On these points I can give the most respectable references.

From inclination and from unfavourable prospects here, it is my wish to settle as a Planter, but I submit that I may also be useful in effectuating the objects of His Majesty's Government and therefore humbly solicit that they will  condescend to entrust me with some employment connected with the establishment.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient humble Servant

Mortimer CORNER

  • Hits: 5170