From J. Bracebridge Wilson   9 June 1884

9. 6. 84

Sir F. von Mueller K.C.B.¹ &c &c.

My dear Sir

I send you a parcel of specimens of the Marine Algae. The result of the last summer's dredging. There are 100, numbered to correspond with specimens retained by me, upon which I shall be grateful for Prof. Agardh's opinion. Some are not uncommon probably, but I have not yet had them authoritatively named. A few may prove interesting.²

The specimens which are not numbered are sent in response to Prof. Agardh's expressed desire, and I greatly regret my inability to send a better suite of specimens; but I hope you will tell Prof. Agardh the reason, viz. That last season was the worst season for dredging I ever experienced. The weather was very unpropitious; both during my long midsummer vacation, and at Easter. It was constantly, either blowing so hard that it was hard to keep a dredge down, or else a dead calm. I can assure you that no chance was lost; but a number of Prof. Agardh's requests must remain unfulfilled until another season — if I am spared till then.

My work among the Polyzoa was equally hindered. I managed to obtain, and preserve in a proper state for examination, a large number of Marine Spongida, which I have sent to England.

I hope you will send all the specimens on this occasion just as they are — and I purpose, if the opportunity is granted me, to make two collections of our Algae; as complete as possible; one for you, and one for the Kew Collection — under Dr. Hooker — whose wifes father Prof. Henslow, is very dear to me in memory.

I should be glad of your permission to inspect your present collection of Algae, and take notes therefrom. By that means I shall be the better able to judge what to procure and also learn something to guide me in the arrangement of my own plants.

I very much hope that your health is improved and that you are not a sufferer from the vicissitudes of the winter season.

Believe me

My dear Sir Ferdinand von Mueller

Yours very sincerely

J Bracebridge Wilson M.A.