x in the MS here and below indicates a full stop.
See M to J. Hector, 16 April 1891 (in this edition as 91-04-16a), and G. Cooper to M, 2 May 1891.
MS annotation signed by Hector, 14 April 1891:
Mr Cooper This telegram from Baron F. Von Mueller refers to the proposed Antarctic Exploring Expedition — On condition that a sum of £5000 is subscribed by the Australasian Col. Governments, Sir Thos Elder is to give £5,000 & Baron Oscar Dixon is to bear the rest of the Expense on condition that the Expedition sails under the Swedish Flag in Command of Baron Nordenskjiold
An application seems to have been made to our Govt either directly, or through Sir J. Hall as appears from Captn Pasco's letter to me of 1st Augt last. I attach all the papers I have on the subject & particularly the report on the Select Committee appointed by the Aust. Assn of Science & of the discussion that took place when the report was brought up. — You will observe that the matter was to be brought before the Federal Conference.
The issue was evidently brought before delegates to the meeting of the National Australasian Convention held in Sydney in March and April 1891 (see M to A. Nordenskiöld, 20 April 1891 (in this edition as 91-04-20a)), but it was not formally debated; see Official Report of the National Australasian Convention Debates, Sydney 1891 (Sydney, 1891). The business of the convention was devoted to debate on a draft Constitution of the proposed Commonwealth of Australia to be formed by federating the existing colonies, including New Zealand, as States.
Telegram bears post office stamp: 'N.Z. | WELLINGTON | 13 AP 91 | DSP'.
Please cite as “FVM-91-04-13b,” in Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, edited by R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora†, J.H. Voigt† and Monika Wells accessed on