WCP6953

[1]¹

Parkstone, Dorset

October 19th /[18]92

D^r. Mr. Deane

I received about a week back a small box with orchid tubers collected near Sydney, I presumed from you, but with no indications of sender. Of the two species sent 3 tubers of the Pterostyles acumenata were in fair condition; the rest, & all the Caladenia alba much shrivelled up, & I fear dead. Either the tubers were dug up before they were quite ripe, or, being so small they require special precautions to retain their natural moisture. I sh^d think a thin coat of clay or even of starch, before packing in moss would be good. I must be something that would easily wash off before planting.

With many thanks, Believe me | Yours very truly | A. R. Wallace [signature] [2]

H. Deane Esq.

Gladesville²

Langorian

Woolwich

Hunters Hill

Sydney

N.S.Wales