WCP2490

[1]¹

13 Gordon Street.

Gordon Square

W. 9.

[8 Jan 1911]²

To

Dr Russell [sic] Wallace

Broadstone.

Dorset.

Dear Sir.

Will you permit me as a Scientist representing New Zealand in England at the present time to congratulate you on your attaining your 88th birthday in health and strength. The late Rev W^m Colenso³ F.R.S. Sir James Hector⁴ F.R.S. and Professor Hutton⁵ FRS. all of New Zealand were intimate friends of my own and they each and all were strong followers of the magnificent theory propounded jointly by Darwin⁶ and yourself. On the [2] death of the late Rev W^m Colenso F.R.S. I had the melancholy duty to perform to write to Sir Joseph Hooker⁷ F.R.S. to inform him of all the circumstances he also being a benefactor under Mr Colenso’s will. I am staying in London & should like to have the privilege of meeting you if that is possible so as to convey from you personally a message to my countrymen in New Zealand from one whose scientific authority is so great & to whose writings I owe myself deeply indebted. I am visiting England after an absence of 37 years during which time I have occupied myself in Geological & Botanical work along the East coast of the N. Island as Chief Inspector of Schools. If you could allow me an interview of ever so short duration. I will come an see you on receiving your wishes.

With every good wish for your continued good health & happiness.

Believe me | Yours Truly | H. Hill⁸ [signature]

[3] PS. I enclose my card & present address:

13 Gordon Street.

Gordon Square.

W9

[4]