WCP4525

[1]

Parkstone, Dorset.

Jan^y. 20^th. 1893

My dear Meldola

An old correspondent of mine at Melbourne wants me to send him a few Diamond beetles, Entimus imperialis, & E[ntimus] nobilis good specimens. Will you be so kind when you are near any of the dealers to look in & see if they have any in good condition and at what price. Is Janson likely to have any?

I have now read the art[icle] on Volucella in "Natural Science". The writer makes rather a good suggestion that the mimicry of species [2] of Bombus &c is not aggressive but protective, — because the colour mimicry does not usually correspond with that of the host, — but he points out that the hairyness [sic] or smoothness of body does correspond, & that this not colour would be observed in the darkness of the hive.

We have been having most utterly detestable weather, but there is now a little improvement.

Yours very truly| Alfred R. Wallace [signature]

[3] P.S.

My friend has also 8000 Australian Coleoptera to dispose of. Do you know any one who would like to purchase sets of any family? If so ask them to write to

Charles French Esq.

Exhibition Buildings

Melbourne.