I remain,
Your faithfully attached,
FERD. MUELLER.
W. Wills, Esquire, M.D.
Melbourne Botanical Gardens, January 5th, 1862.
MY DEAR DR. WILLS,
It affords me a melancholy satisfaction that the humble tribute which I wish to pay to the memory of your lamented son, in attaching his name to the enclosed plant, elicited such kind recognition from yourself. I need not assure you that I shall continue to maintain, as I have done on all previous occasions, that only by the skilful guidance and scientific talents of your unfortunate son, the great geographic success is achieved, which he sealed with his heroic death.
We can only now deeply deplore the loss of SUCH a man, and award that honour to his memory which his great exploit for ever merits.
With the deepest sympathy for you, ever dear and respected friend,