From Ferdinand von Mueller to Alexander Macdonald   10 June 1890

10/6/90

I merely wrote, dear Mr Macdonald, that I was not undisposed, to give Mr Lindt's spontaneous offer my support; but I did not urge its adoption.¹ If still other members of our Council are opposed to our application, it would be hardly needful, to hold a council-meeting about it, — altho' my rooms here are at disposal for the purpose, and my cottage is easily reached. But as Mr Lindt is soon to start, it would [...]² that you kindly inform him early of the adverse views of a majority of the Council. There may however be other business for us to transact any how, as we ought to hold (in justice to our subscribers) a new meeting in July or August.

I am sorry of our friend Mr Panton's views of discontinuing exploration in New Guinea; the opinion thereon is different, held by some other members of the Council. If we get a vote, it would not be safe, until it is actually passed, and that can not be before Octob, therefore too late for this season. Under any circumstances further action through us in Central Australia should be combined with a "bona fide" Leichhardts Search, in order to take away any possible public expressions that we had any other objects in view, than those purely geographical. We must not I am sure you will also say give the people any chance, to put wrong constructions on any plans of our ours,³ as we are all in the Council equally responsible.

Could we tell Mr Lindt, that we would purchase a set or more of his photograms?

Let me hope that you and your Lady and little one are all quite well.

Regardfully your

Ferd. von Mueller.

I thank you for having kindly seen Dr Nansen's letter into print;⁴ it helps to keep us before the public. I went to see Capt Pasco some time ago; he was then getting better.