Ferdinand von Mueller

1

MS black-edged; M's nephew George Ferdinand Doughty died on 19 November 1893.

Newyearsday,

1894

In first instance, dear Mr Wilson, my best felicitation for the new year. Next, my thanks for the kindness of arranging the interview with the Premier. I had two hours uninterruptedly conversation with Mr Patterson. The hon Gentleman suggested that I should write a letter officially, concerning my proposition, that through the Agriculture-Department large supplies of such Vines, as are Phylloxera-proof, should be imported for distribution. But I now learn, that seedlings from a small lot of such seeds raised in the Agriculture-Department, were viewed with disfavor, because a prejudice seems to exist here about all American Vines, though when raised from seeds no Phylloxera could be imported with them. Indeed one principality or Shire petitioned, that the phylloxera-proof seedlings should be eradicated, after they were planted. Under these circumstances it seems inopportune, to move in this matter at present. Will you be so very kind, to explain this to the Premier?

2

MS annotation: 'Read to Mr Patterson 4/1/93' (sic).