XXXI. Swellengrebel to H. Cloete,
Schoonoort 16.12.1785
The Cape is so often in my thoughts, that when reading a book I continually realise that there are matters about which I have no complete certainty. As there is no longer any prospect of my visiting the Cape once more, I have to gather my information by correspondence, and who would be more capable of answering my questions, so willingly than you my friend? I shall not apologise for the trouble I am causing as I am sure there will be a winter evening during which you will find time for me.
Many of these questions I could answer myself, but this would not serve the purpose, because I must have evidence to convince people over here. Please answer in enough detail to enable a clear solution of the problem to be reached; and add such further information as may provide a clear notion of the Cape methods of farming.
Auteursrechtelijk beschermd