Description

[Letter translated from French] The printed document is a circular providing information on two consignments of objects of Natural History sent by Mr Zollinger from Java [Indonesia]. After a three month delay, the first consignment arrived in Soleure [Solothurn] in July. The second consignment is due and items from both consignments will be distributed to shareholders together, to avoid shipping costs. The majority of plants in the first consignment have been dried as carefully as possible and are represented by beautiful, and often large, specimens. So as not to delay distribution, Moritzi will send out the specimens first and then publish, when all plants are determined, the names alongside [Zollinger's] handwritten notes. In addition to plants, there is a small collection, in spirit, of Ficus fruits, centipedes, scorpions and other insects, lizards and snakes. A small number of shells have also been collected. After a disagreement with the Dutch authorities, Zollinger not only managed to travel into the interior of Java, but the Governor has allowed him to use his house on the summit of Panngurango [Pangrango], and has put his garden and household staff at Zollinger's disposal. Zollinger will likely make a prolonged excursion to this location, 9000 feet above sea level, a few hundred feet higher than the Gede volcano. However, this excursion will require further expense and Moritzi will require new subscriptions. Details of the prices of the subscriptions are provided, alongside an assurance of Zollinger's integrity. Payments are directed to F. Brunner at Soleure or Roelandt & Co of Rotterdam. In the attached letter to Hooker, Moritzi notes that the plants in the second consignment were damaged by water and he could not send the number requested. He will cover these losses by providing specimens from the third consignment when it arrives. Moritzi assumes that for the loss of a few species, Hooker will not hesitate to pay at the agreed rate of 45 francs per hundred. Moritzi requests that payment be made as soon as possible. The case of specimens, marked 'JS # 691' was sent on 11 Nov and the contents are listed. Page 1 of 4.