- Natural History Museum, London: NHM WP2/6/3/8(140)
- Marchant, J. (Ed.). (1916). In: Alfred Russel Wallace; Letters and Reminiscences. Vol. 2. London & New York: Cassell & Co. [pp. 223-224]
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Describes parts of the country famous for their wild flowers, including the Vale of Neath and High Force in Teesdale. Looks forward to Birch's description of his Welsh tour and writes, "I love Wales more than any part of our country. I lived at Neath 5 or 6 years and I know nothing more beautiful than the Vale of Neath right up to the grand Brecknock Beacons".
Thanks Birch for the book of his tour of North Wales. Knows Snowdon and Cader Idris well and discusses the geological influences, including glaciation, of the area. Sends Birch a new year's gift copy of his Wonderful Century, which he thinks will interest him.
Thanks Birch for his letter and tells him not to trouble about the photo of a moraine as his book is at the printers, although he could use it in a second edition.
Arrangements for Birch's employment in Customs in British Guiana would leave half of his time free for collecting. "I long for you to be there almost as much as if I were going myself!".
Offers advice for Birch's forthcoming visit to the British Museum (Natural History) where he should meet Waterhouse, Kirby and Thomas.
Offers advice in preparing for employment and on collecting in the tropics.
Advises about Birch's proposed expedition to Brazil, urging him not to go via Jamaica. Also discusses a forthcoming visit from Birch to Broadstone.
Advice on the importance of having an agent to handle the sale of specimens. Private buyers and museums are possible clients. Birch should check if bird skeletons are required.
More advice about Birch's proposed expeditions. There is a direct shipping line from Glasgow to the West Indies. Favours going via Trinidad.
Returns Birch's pen which he left behind when visiting, so that he may describe his trip to Oxford to ARW.
Gives advice on dealers and the advantages and disadvantages of dealing with personal dealers such as Druce, Janson, or Trevor compared to institutions such as the British Museum.
Discusses terms of a proposed collecting contract with Mr. Janson, bird collections at Tring, and spiritualism.
Discusses Birch's upcoming voyage and delay going via Jamaica. Mentions Mr. Janson as his agent but also discusses Mr Druce and Miss Lister?/Linden? of the British Museum.
Is relieved that Birch will not be travelling via Jamaica after all. Discusses collecting equipment and Humboldt's travels.
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Congratulates Birch on obtaining such a cheap passage and enquires the sailing date. Also mentions South American forests.