Sexton is writing to Hooker as he is about to be appointed to HMS 'Magpie' which is to be engaged in surveying in the Gulf of Tonquin [Tonkin], the southern part of the China sea and around the north coast of Borneo. He therefore asks if Hooker would kindly inform him of the best books on the botany of the adjacent mainland and islands and where they are to be purchased. He will only have room for a limited number. He would also like any hints of the botany of these parts and what would be most desirable to turn his attention to. His knowledge of this science is very limited. Sexton signs himself as staff surgeon. Page 1 of 2.