From George Maxwell   8 March 1859

Albany¹ 8th March 1859.

Dear Sir,

I have forwarded per steam ship Colombian 1 Box containing 500 specimens of plants, and 250 packets of seeds. I have not been able to procure specimens of (Atropa bellodona)² it is very rare in this neighborhood but plenty to the Eastward. The Steamer having arrived a day sooner than expected prevented me of forwarding upwards of 300 more specimens, mostly from East Mount Barren, and the Phillips ranges, but shall be forwarded by next Steamer

I am still anxiously looking out for Mr Oldfields arrival. I hope he safe and reaping a rich harvest; let me know when you heard from him last, should he not arrive within a month from this date I will proceed in a boat myself to the Westward

I find that other objects of Natural history pays much better than collecting Botanical specimens, for instance. In one days dredging for shells, more can be made than in botany in a month.

I am strongly advised to proceed by boat to Cape le grand next season and make a stay for 3 or 4 months amongst the Islands and on the Main — where I have no doubt a good collection may be obtained.

The bills for my last was received safe. I have enclosed a receipt a bill for the amount of what I now send, and should there be any error it can be put to rights, the next supply. I send in the case 2 specimens of Minerals for his examination trusting you will let me know the result they were found in the immediate vicinity of Albany. I shall expect to hear from you by next mail being anxious to proceed to the interior

I remain

Sir

your most obedt Servant

G. Maxwell

P.S. you will be kind enought to send me 1/2 doz Pamphlets on the growth and manufacture of the Vine. I believe the authors name to be Parsley of Geelong.³

G.M.⁴

Atropa bellodona