Ferdinand von Mueller

Melbourne botanic Garden

21/8/63.

(Friday noon).

My very dear Miss Henderson.

If by anything the profound esteem I ever for you entertained could be raised, it would be by the noble pious and unselfish sentiments expressed in your letter,

1

Letter not found.

which reached me this moment and to which I reply under tears and great emotion. Your forgiving me and you promising me a future sisterly sympathy evince a rare magnanimity, which I the higher appreciate as I am so unworthy of seeing it extended to me, and for which token of genuine and disinterested feelings for my welfare I must eternally remain grateful to you.

At a calmer moment I will write more; but at this instance I must at once solicit of you not to return my humble portrait

2

See M to E. Henderson, 29 June 1863.

and the poor volumes, to which you attach so much value, whilst I should feel also very very sorry to part with the little medaillion

3

M was evidently permitted to retain the medallion, since it is now in the possession of descendants of his sister, Clara Wehl.

of yours, which I wish to keep with my most precious possessions.

I trust to God, that you will regain the quiet happiness of former days and that your health has not become impaired in the depth of troubles I have caused you and for which I must ever feel a bitter repentance. When you return from Mr Russell's home you must allow me the privilege of seeing you, and meanwhile I hope to hear frequently from you.

I had the titles of my small scattered property in readiness for transmission to you; but you have shown again a greatness of mind of declining the humble offer, which I hope you have regarded in the spirit in which it was tendered.

I must repeat my earnest wishes to be pardoned by Mr & Mrs M'Haffie and remain ever your sincerest and deeply attached friend