WCP4534

[1]

Parkstone, Dorset.

June 25th. 1896

My dear Meldola¹

I send you herewith a big german book I have just received, & which seems to be an important contribution towards a true classification of butterflies judging from the genealogical tree at the end which has many features that seem natural.

I enjoyed my visit very much. The meeting was more amusing than instructive, but I was very glad to meet Poulton² & F. Darwin³ and have a good talk. I have just looked in the Chambers Encyclopedia & find [2] under "Woad" this statement –

“In 1892 Woad was grown at only four places in England (mostly near Boston); the price, formerly £.25 a ton had sunk to £.9."

It also states that "it is used in conjunction ^union with indigo". It says nothing about the manufacture, requiring a mill, the descriptions being merely of fermentation & making the leaves into balls, but you will hear all about it at your projected visit.

If you should have had the German (Finnish) book sent, you can give this copy [3] to the Ent. Soc.

With kind remembrances to Mrs. Meldola⁴ & thanks for her hospitality[.]

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

Prof. R. Meldola F.R.S.