Ferdinand von Mueller

Melbourne bot Garden,

14/2/67

Sir

In reply to your letter of the 11. inst. I have the honor to remark, that the cross fences as recommended for construction at the Yarra Banks do exist already, but do not prevent the cattle from swimming across into my reserve. I see not the remotest prospect of proceeding with my own planting operations on the northern ground, nor even protecting what exist. I again respectfully direct the attention of the health committee of the City Council to the excessively dismal appearance of the Yarra bank opposite to the magnificent Iron bridge at Andersons Street and crave the favor of an early interview with the Gentlemen of the Committee at the spot, in order that a consultation may be held of the best means to be adopted for improving a locality, in which we have a joint and mutual interest. I would also beg to state, that if measures for planting operations in the adjoining parkland are in any way deferred, an other season will be lost; at least I shall not be able, if not by the beginning of May all earthwork & all protection is effected to furnish trees from the botanic Garden for the purpose, as I would be so glad to do.

1

MS annotation: 'Inform Dr Meuller [sic] that he must fence off the Yarra Road from the Gardens'. M was so informed in E. FitzGibbon to M, 27 February 1867 (in this edition as 67-02-27a).

The townclerk

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