To Francis Barnard   22 May 1886

Melbourne,

22 May 1886.

It is my most pleasing duty, dear Mr Barnard, to express my deep appreciation of the generosity of the great Field Naturalists Club of Victoria, for having raised me to one of its Patronships.¹ Among the many marks of distinction, with which I have been honored in life, I value this one as among the highest, because it is a tribute from that country, in which I spent most of my years and with which my labours are most directly identified. To me it is in connection with this new dignity also a highly pleasurable thought, that work, which I commenced in Australia nearly 40 years ago, will in various directions be carried on by young workers, whom I met personally at your meetings, and who can be guided and can be encouraged by what was accomplished at my time; while they in their turn far on in the next century can inspire a younger generation, thus linking one century's scientific work to that of an other!

I feel particularly beholden to the accomplished and genial Professor Lucas, for having been my sponsor on this auspicuous occasion of alloting to me so high and permanent position at the Club; and I feel grateful also specially to these Gentlemen, who supported his proposition.

It is my hope, that in the brief space of time, which divine providence may yet graciously allow me for my earthly career, I shall be able to make many more hours free for active cooperation with the Club, than during the last few years, so very labourious to me.

Wishing your now widely ramified Institution, which is exercising such an elevating influence on social tone, on healthful recreation, on practical education-developments and on progressive nature-sciences among us, also in all future a brilliant success, I remain

regardfully your

Ferd. von Mueller.²