Ferdinand von Mueller

Melbourne,

8./11./83.

To the honorable Graham Berry, M.L.A.,

Chief Secretary.

Sir

I have the honor to inform you, that I have suffered from a bronchial catarrh since several weeks; and although this has not prevented me from performing my office-work, it rendered it almost impossible for me to leave my rooms during the generally cool past weather. As now however the hot-season is setting in, I would like much to proceed for a change of air to Lilydale for a few days some time this month, which I wish to do after consultation with some of my medical friends. I hope this will meet with your friendly concurrence, as I have formerly also spent now and then a little time in the country, and as the official correspondence will be sent on to me daily, and current office-work will not be interrupted, in as much as also in the country my writings and other departmental work will be carried on. If anything particular should require my personal attendence at the Office, a telegram will bring me back in a few hours.

1

Berry approved M's request on 12 November and M was informed on the same day. M returned the file 'with best thanks' two days later. See also M to G. Berry, 22 November 1883 (in this edition as 83-11-22a).