WCP3831

[1]¹

Parkstone, Dorset.

Dec^r. 22nd. 1898

Dear Mr Thistleton Dyer²

I have just seen Dr. Allman’s³ Executor (Major Parry,⁴ Bolton Lanc.) & he tells me that his uncle had rather an exaggerated notion of the value of his property, which he thought was worth £5000. The land is a trifle under 5 acres, very beautifully situated with fine views to the Purbeck Hills over Poole Harbour and sloping to the South. A wood of old Scotch Pines on the highest ground shelters it from the North & East. The house is comfortable but could be improved. There are 6 or 7 bedrooms. The garden is stocked [2] with numbers of fine rare shrubs, & flower with rock & bog-gardens. well-stocked. There is a walled kitchen garden, & plenty of room to make more borders, ponds, rock gardens &c.

I fancy, if sold by auction, it might fetch £4000 ^{to a speculator,} but Major Parry is going to have it valued by a good Estate Agent & will then probably fix a reserve price. Anyone can see it at any time, & I should be glad to accompany any friend of yours who might come for the purpose.

With best wishes & Comp^s of the Season,

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