Ferdinand von Mueller

1

MS found with a specimen of Gossypium barbadense (MEL 2040538).

Dear Sir

I enclose a few cotton pods, from trees growing wild on the Aroona Creek Nor. Ter.

2

i.e. Northern Territory. All places named by Bradshaw are in NT.

originally propagated from a tree planted by Mr Giles

3

Probably Alfred Giles, who had charge of sheep at W. J. Browne's property at Aroona Creek in the 1870s (Chronicle (Adelaide), 7 March 1835, p. 66).

several years ago, there are now several healthy trees, and when I saw them last month they were masses of snow white cotton, and I thought a sample would interest you. I have not yet been able to collect the baobib nuts for you as they were out of season at the time I was at the Victoria Riv. but I shall take the first opportunity of securing some.

I have noticed several tree inscriptions and initials of your old exploring party,

4

North Australian Exploring Expedition, 1855-6.

and the figures are distinct and perfectly legible.

Let me know if there is anything I can do for you, or any particular specimen you may want

Palmerston

Norn Territory

July 25th 1894