WCP3776

[1]

Godalming,

June 3rd. 1888

Dear Mr. Ward¹

The plants you sent me duly arrived. The Silene Pensylvanica were rather damp on the leaves, which had rotted, but I think they will grow out again from the tuberous roots. The Cypripedium seemed in good condition. The viola pedata sent before are now growing strongly. If roots are kept moist in sphagnum, & foliage in dry moss to keep out the air & prevent shriveling, & the whole packed [2] nearly, but not quite airtight, it is astonishing how well plants travel. If put up too damp & too nearly airtight, they heat and rot.

With many thanks to yourself for gathering & to Mrs. Ward² for packing them[.]

Believe me | yours very sincerely | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]

Prof. Lester F. Ward

[3] P.S. About half the specimens I sent from California, the Rocky Mountains & the Prairies are now alive and growing in my garden.³

ARW.