Ferdinand von Mueller

May 2nd [188]5

1

editorial addition.

Dear Sir,

When the New Guinea Exploration Expedition was first proposed you were good enough to offer a subscription of £10 towards the expenses

2

See M to E. Marin La Meslée, 6 October 1883.

may I ask if you are willing to renew the promise. The Sydney Chamber of Commerce are just opening a public subscription towards the "Exploration Fund," & if you can give any hints that may be useful in obtaining subscriptions in Melbourne they will be very welcome — You may even know some gentlemen who only need to be asked for their help to be forthcoming.

Perhaps you will also kindly say if you think it would be possible to obtain the loan — for the Expedition — of any scientific instruments from any of the various Govt institutions in Victoria.

The Exploratory Committee is to meet early in the coming week to consider the applications — which number about 150 — for appointments on the Expedition.

I may say that Major General Scratchley has become a member of the Society & given a personal subscription of £5 towards the Exploration Expenses.

I much regret the absence today of Sir Edward Strickland, who would otherwise have written you. Your great interest in this matter will, however, I am sure be a sufficient excuse for my writing.

[Baro]n Von Mueller K.C.M.G.

&c&c&c