Ferdinand von Mueller

Melbourne

14. April 1879.

To the honorable

the Commissioner of

public works.

Sir,

In compliance with instructions, received from the office of the honorable the Chief Secretary,

1

See W. Odgers to M, 10 April 1879.

I have the honor of submitting herewith the estimates for public works of the Governm. Botanists Department for the financial year 1879-1880. I may be allowed to remark, that since the last six years no vote whatever has been available for me, to obtain again buildings for the needful requirements of my departmental service, after being deprived in 1873 of my office building, my laboratory and other accommodations established by me for the due performance of my work in the bot. Garden since 1853 gradually. Two or three years ago the sum of £900 was voted by Parliament for the commencement of new buildings for my service, which sum I allowed to lapse with a desire of seeing it doubled in the next year. I therefore now hope, that you will kindly allow the doubled sum to go on the estimates now.

2

The requested funds were not granted.

Gov. Botanists Department 1879-1880. Official buildings with fittings &c. £1800.