From the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos to Ferdinand von Mueller   9 Dec 1871

Wotton

Aylesbury

Dec. 9. 1871

Sir

I have to thank you for a copy of the Lectures &c.¹ by you &c I have read them with much interest — as I did a former volume which you sent me while at the Colonial office² — You have in the lectures, which you have now sent me the copy of, drawn attention to a subject of great importance in all countries, especially newly inhabited ones — viz. forest culture or care — One which under the English government whether at home or in colonies has been too much neglected — for health utility & profit — so far at least as can be judged from the somewhat imperfect records of Statistics which history furnishes — I was somewhat disappointed at not being able to induce any of the seeds of the tree you sent me to germinate whether from the branch having been gathered green or from some other cause. The seeds as well as stalks seemed mildewed extensively when the packet was opened — I had hoped it would have formed an ornament to my conservatory at Stowe where I am endeavouring to collect as many of the beautiful ferns & other trees not too large for growing under glass as I can — if therefore you should be able to send me a few fresh seeds I should much like to try them again³

I remain

yours truly

Buckingham & Chandos

The Baron von Mueller.