Document information

Physical location:

K59/185, unit 747, VPRS 1189 inward registered correspondence, VA 475 Chief Secretary's Department, Public Record Office, Victoria. 59.01.10

Preferred Citation:

Ferdinand von Mueller to John O'Shanassy, 1859-01-10. R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora, J.H. Voigt and Monika Wells (eds), Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, <https://vmcp.rbg.vic.gov.au/id//letters/1850-9/1859/59-01-10-final.odt>, accessed June 9, 2026

Melbourne botan. & zool. Garden,
10. Jan. 1859.
Sir
I have the honor to solicit, that you will permit me to proceed by the "Victoria" Steamer on her next voyage to Cape Howe or Gabo Island, as I am anxious to examine the vegetation of that part of the Colony, which has never been visited by any botanist.
I would consider it a particular favor, if it could be arranged that the "Victoria" remained for one week at Gabo Island or Two-fold Bay, as it will require several days to examine the plants of the country.
Should this be impossible, I would then be thankful for being landed at Wilsons Promontory, in order to examine Mount Wilson, and return by the "Victoria" after her visit to Gabo Island.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
your most obedient servant
Ferd. Mueller.
The Honorable the Chief Secretary
&c&c&c
1
On 17 January 1859 the Under Secretary, J. Moore, referred M's letter to W. Norman, Commander of Victoria. Norman replied on 21 January: 'The "Victoria" proceeds to Gabo Island on Tuesday next 25th inst, but with the duties She is now under orders for, after performing that service, it is desirable no time should be lost in returning. The Govt Botanist could be landed at Cape Howe or Twofold bay and return via Sydney by Steamer, or be left at Wilsons Promontory until the Ship returns'.
See also J. Moore to M, 24 January 1859.