To Archibald Michie   25 September 1868

Melbourne, botanic Garden,

25/9/68.

Honored and dear Sir.

Were it not that science draws a band of union around her notaries I should feel reluctance in adressing you on this occasion, especially as I have most wrongly deprived myself hitherto, surrounded by literary work in my leisure hours, of that recreation, which the friendship of men of true genius like yourself so largely affords.

On this occasion I step forward to claim your patronage for one of the most worthy members of our community, Mr Robert Wadsworth.

Learning from that Gentleman, that he is an aspirant for a Magistracy for which the appointment rests in your ministerial power, I feel, that I merely perform an act of justice when I add my words to those who recommend Mr Wadsworths claims to your friendly consideration.

During nearly ten years not only my official position brought me in frequent contact with that Gentleman, but also during that period I have enjoyed his private friendship, and I had thus ample opportunity to recognize the dignified bearing, the zealous attention to his duties, the display of intelligence, the calm thoughtfulness and above all the noble sentiments, which will ever endear Mr Wadsworth to a wide circle of mutual friends, and I can safely affirm, that on these grounds few can have equal and none higher claims on your consideration.

I cannot conclude this letter (I believe the first ever adressed to you from my hands) without seeking permission to testify publicly to you my profound respect and my admiration by conferring your name to a noble new plant,¹ a wish long since expressed to your friend Dr Wilkie, and thus to concede to me the privilege that not only the science of jurisprudence but also that of natural history may render your name illustrious and carry it into the remotest futurity.

I remain, honorable and dear Sir, in humble obedience and attachment,

yours

Ferd. Mueller.

The honorable Archibald Michie M. L. A.

&c &c &c