Description

Curtis has is forwarding one case of dried specimens of plants; he would be glad for the determinations at Morris' convenience. His previous collection was dispatched early in August and he hopes to receive the determinations soon. He thanks Morris for the [KEW] BULLETINS, which arrived by last mail. The information contained in the papers is of very great value and he shall be grateful if Morris can send them regularly. Curtis has already acknowledged receipt of Wight's drawings of Indian plants, which form an important addition to the small library in Penang. About two years ago they received seeds of the tree Tomato and Curtis is pleased to say that this is now fruiting in the experimental nursery at 2000 feet. One plant is carrying about 20 fruits which are, judging from the description and figure in the August BULLETIN, almost full grown, but there is no sign of colouring as yet. Another plant is growing well in the waterfall garden near sea level but it has no fruit. He distributed plants to the hill stations in Perak where he thought the chances were in favour of its growth, but so far he does not hear of its fruiting. They would like Government to sanction taking up 20 to 30 acres of good land in Province Wellesley [Seberang Perai] for the cultivation of new and neglected agricultural products. The soil and the situation of the waterfall garden render it unfit for experimental work. They are not in a position to put this forward at once, as certain changes are contemplated in the organisation of the Forest Department, which may interfere with their arrangements if carried out. Cantley has probably written to Morris on this subject. Annotated. Page 1 of 2.