From Ferdinand von Mueller to Euphemia Henderson   29 Mar 1863

Melbourne botanic Garden

29. March 63.

Dear Euphemia,

I do not like, that the mail for Western port should leave without a few lines for you from my hands, altho' I have not much to communicate. Having been incessantly engaged in my department since we parted, I have not been in town since the day of my arrival, and have therefore neither seen your brother, nor Capt. Crawford, who, I presume, must have yesterday been attending on Mr M'Haffie's behalf before Dr Candler. The latter Gentleman would not yield to my proposal of postponing Mr M'Haffies case; hence, I fear, much inconvenience has arisen. But possibly Mr M'Haffie need now not trouble to come in before I have the pleasure of seeing you and your sister arrive, as probably Mr Crawford will arrange for the postponement of the case until that time.¹

How time passes away in rapidity! A week is gone since I left the shores of the isle where you are dwelling. So you will be soon here; but my joy of seeing you will be mingled with the sorrow of a long parting from you! But perhaps I may be sooner back, than I originally intended, and as the winter will be much against my health, I may possibly proceed already in September next on my home voyage; I say home voyage, because Australia is my home. I trust you enjoy your usual excellent health! O, what a source of pleasure unimpaired health affords! I sincerely hope also, that the tranquillity and peace of your mind is in no way disturbed. —

My hurried lines by last weeks mail, did, I hope, reach you. I posted them myself & so the letter for Mr M'Haffie.² If anything could be added to make the honor, conferred on me by the Emperor of France, still greater, it would be by the graceful letter, received from the Minister of Foreign Affairs M. Drouyn de Lhuys,³ in which his Excellency in exceedingly flattering terms anounces the Emperors grace. Whether as an officer of her Britainic Majestys Government I am permitted to accept the distinction, will depend on the decision of the Home Government; but if words can urge the approval of the Duke of Newcastle, they will be successful in the expressions adopted by Sir Henry Barkly on the occasion.

We had some days of agreable weather here, but I could not enjoy them. O, how I long again for the bracing air of Phillip Island, and the rural tranquillity of your isle!, charming above all by your presence.

With my sincere love

dear Phemy

yours

Ferd. Mueller.

The last portion of manuscript for the 3 vol. of the Fragmenta⁴ will go to the press in the middle of this week.