Ferdinand von Mueller

1

MS is in a diary with drafts of other letters dated 1860 and is dated accordingly.

Dr Muler

Dear Sir

A boat man on the bay

2

Presumably Western Port, Vic, Barclay being based there, at Tyabb.

with whom I have been talking stated that he is willing to enter into an agreement to catch and deliver to me 50 swans

3

Presumably Black Swans (Cygnus atratus).

but he states that on account of the game laws he could not commence til the first Feburary at the price I would have to pay him I could not deliver 50 for less then £19 for that sum I believe I can deliver you 50 provided that I am admited at the same gate and allowed to rest at the gardens as formerly if that priviledge is denied I would require at least £2 more if you think fit to give that sum all well or if you have any objection Pleas to state it is not impossable but an other man may get the Birds far before yet if I have to pay the sum he asked I cannot deliver them at the gardens for less then the sum stated