WCP3888

[1]¹

Old Orchard,

Broadstone,

Wimborne.

June 12th. 1909

Dear Mr. Ridley

I am collecting some information about rich plant-regions or districts. I have just received from Sir J. Hooker² his exceedingly interesting "Sketch of the Flora of British India"[.]³

In this among other information of like kind he speaks of the "astonishing number of species" in Penang Island, (1813.) It struck me that you may perhaps have kept a record of the species of Singapore, which, though not so lofty [2] is nearly twice the area. If you have done so I should be much obliged if you would send me the figures.

Also if you happen to have at hand any estimate of the number of species in Java or in any smaller island or defined district, I should be very glad of it.

I have now given up attempting to grow orchids or any tropical plants, but am still as keen as ever on growing temperate & subtemperate [3] shrubs, and a few even of subtropical plants in my greenhouse here.

Should you be having a holiday soon in England I hope you will manage to give me a call.

Yours very truly | Alfred R. Wallace [signature]