Ferdinand von Mueller

Melbourne

19/4/87.

Within the last weeks only, dear Professor Abbot, I received your communication of the 7. Jan. 1886,

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Letter not found; but see Boston Society of Natural History to M, 6 January 1886.

in which you apprize me of the great and unexpected honor, conferred on me by the Boston-Society for Natural History, in electing me a corresponding Member, — a distinction, which I value all the more highly, as I had so little claims on the Society's generous attention.

There must be to [all]

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MS damaged.

of us something fascinating and elevating in the bonds of science connecting us for the furtherance of knowledge throughout the world by the means of associations such as yours. But to one, like myself, in antipodal distance from the great seats of learning, the kindly calls to their unions has been unmeasurably encouraging, though this feeling of appreciation is mingled often with the regret of being so inadequately able to show myself grateful to the illustrious unions, which deem me worthy of cooperation. — Life is too short for science! When after a long series of years full of exertions to enlarge and perfect our knowledge, any one of us may cherish the hope of turning that acquisition to the fullest account, we are called away from our worldly career, and also thus the hopes set on us for furtherance of science remain largely unrealized.

If I can be however of the slightest use to your illustrious President and any members, yet [...]

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unhesitatingly command my attention.

Let me remain, honored Sir, with regardful remembrance your