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191 REPORT OF THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT BOTANIST.
It yet remains for me to record my sense of obligation to the very nu-
merous donors, wlio enriched the various branches of the establishment
during a more recent period. A glance at the list of these supporters
will also be the most convincing proof of the wide external communi-
cations of the department, while a reference to the plan annexed will
at once largely explain the extent of the internal operations, which are
singularly multifarious. It would be unjust wei'e I not specially to al-
lude to the graceful concession continued by the Peninsular and Oriental
Steam Navigation Company, the owners of the ' Great Britain,' and
many other mercantile and seafaring gentlemen, to convey, freight free,
the consignments of this establishment,' or were I to pass over silently
the kind aid rendered by his Excellency Sir Henry Barkly, in effecting
from Mauritius the final transits to Bourbon and various parts of South
Africa. The foreign communications involve the necessity of corre-
spondence in several languages, the number of all letters issued being
about 3000 a year. The permanent property in buildings, iron fences,
drains, boulders, waterworks, collections, library, and lasting improve-
ments, irrespective of the plants distributed, and irrespective of the
value of the local plantations, fell not short of £27,000, according to
an estimate made two years ago by professional gentlemen not con-
nected with the department. This lasting property has increased, by
additions since, considerably in value. In this estimate, however, the
value of the iron bridge is not included. While aiming, as far as is in
his powei', at the utmost economy, the Director hopes that those means
which Parliament may also in future be pleased to entrust to him will
proportionately enhance the lasting value of the establishment, and
always bear, in scientific information afforded, and in practical services
rendered, an ample return.
•
I am, etc.,
Ferd. Von Mueller, M.D., F.ll.S.
Supplementary Eeport.
In accordance with your instructions, I have the honour of submit-
tin- a brief Report on the work carried on in the Botanic Garden, and
the scientific establishments connected therewith, during the last six
months. This document may be considered as supplementary to the
last general Report, and will also briefly explain what additional work
seems recommendable during the year 1869.