Unpublished letter, regarding paper on compass variation from John Ross to Sir Jos [Joseph] Banks In this covering letter, Ross introduces his paper on the variation of the mariner's compass and deviation of the magnetic needle. He requests that Banks present it to the Royal Society if deemed worthy. Subject: Geodesy Written by Ross in London. The Royal Society did not publish this paper as Ross planned to include it in a published narrative of his voyages. Ross' narrative was published in 1819: Ross, John. A Voyage of Discovery, made under the orders of the Admiralty, in His Majesty's Ships Isabella and Alexander, for the purpose of exploring Baffin's Bay, and inquiring into the probability of a North-west Passage. Vol. 1. London: Printed by Strahan and Spottiswoode, for Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown, 1819. 21 December 1818