Ferdinand von Mueller

1

Letter not found. The text given here is from ' Western Australian Flora', West Australian, 4 September 1896, p. 5. It is introduced by ‘Writing to Mr. E. J. Bickford, the vice-president of the Perth Wesley Literary Society, from Melbourne under date of 23rd August, Baron Sir Fred. Von Mueller, the famous botanist, says that’. Versions of the letter appeared elsewhere, for example in Eastern districts chronicle (York, WA), 19 September 1896, p. 5.

23 August 1896

[the third census of Australasian plants is to appear in 1897,

2

The volume was not published.

and he is desirous of obtaining novelties in the form of plantlets (dried) taken from the coast and interior of Western Australia. He suggests that amateur collectors of plants who are interested in the flora of this extensive colony may be instrumental in bringing to light some yet unknown variety to the Botanical Library. Now that the wild flower season is dawning upon us, excellent opportunities will, doubtless, be afforded to many who can avail themselves of this privilege. From our vast stretch of sea coast rare and beautiful specimens of algae, or sea weed, are to be found and the baron promises suitable recognition to any who furnish him with material of any description, either floral or the last named of our vegetable kingdom.]

3

The article concludes:

Mr Bickford will supply on application suitable envelopes for forwarding, so that specimens will not be injured during transit. It may be hoped that the baron’s suggestion will receive the support it merits, and that every true lover of this branch of science will assist him through this channel in giving to the world a complete work.