TJTAKAMAND GAKDEN. 



6th August 1857. 



1. For some years, I have read the Eeports of this Govern- 

 ment Institution with much pleasure, although I had not seen 

 Mr M'lvor or his garden ; but this year, my forest duties necessi- 

 tating my proceeding to the Nilgiri Hills, I delayed forwarding 

 the remarks called for, until I had an opportunity of ascertaining 

 by inspection, and noting in some detail, "the present condition, 

 resources, and prospects of the institution." 



2. Ten years have elapsed since the Marquis of Tweeddale 

 originated the scheme of this garden ; and the Court of Directors 

 selected (on the recommendation, I believe, of Dr Eoyle and Sir 

 William Hooker), the present superintendent, who is eminently 

 qualified' by early training at the Eoyal Gardens, Kew, for carry- 

 ing out the objects of the institution. 



3. The earlier stages of the garden's existence have passed ; 

 and I need not perhaps allude to the great difficulties to be over- 

 come in commencing a garden on these mountains with a scanty 

 income of Es.100 per mensem, and the experience to be gained 

 before exotics from various lands could be successfully intro- 

 duced. I will, however, observe, that the present condition of the 

 garden is very creditable to Mr M'lvor, who has laboured by 

 himself from the beginning without the aid of professional advice ; 

 and although much remains to be done, yet, on making inquiry, 

 I find it generally admitted by visitors that great progress has 

 been made during the past year. 



4. In the upper part, the borders and beds have been well 

 planned and arranged, and have a neat and trim appearance. 

 The view from the higher terraces is romantic ; and from them 

 only can the general plan be well seen and understood. On the 



