26 



that it is still alive and healthy, a quantity of seed was obtained 1 

 so that we shall be able to rear plants, but it is of very slow 

 growth, our plant which has now flowered for the first time is 

 probably more than 30 years old. 



Oxalis crenata. — This plant was alluded to in my report for 

 1898, but I regret that it is found to be unsuitable to the coast 

 districts of the Colony, in the summer months it grows 

 luxuriantly, but it does not produce any tubers, in the winter 

 it yields tubers fairly well, but it is most difficult to keep the 

 plants through the summer for winter planting, we have, how- 

 ever, preserved a few, and hope to have it tried in the upper 

 districts, it is well worth the attempt to preserve it as an addi- 

 tion to our stock of culinary vegetables. 



In May, W. Thorpe, who had been with us for three years 

 left for England on private business and is not likely to return 

 t-o Natal, his place was filled by J. Mc Alpine, who has excellent 

 testimonials, and is still here. A. Blunden, who belonged to 

 the Natal Field Artillery left for the front with his corps when 

 the Volunteers were called out, and his place remains open for 

 him when he returns. 



I have again to thank the whole of the European staff for 

 their very willing services and for the good feeling that renders 

 my relations with them so pleasant. To Mr. Wylie my special 

 thanks are due for valuable and ready assistance at all times 

 cheerfully rendered. 



To the Committee I again tender my thanks for their hearty 

 support and co-operation in all matters connected with my 

 work. 



I have the honour to be, 

 Gentlemen, 



Your obedient servant, 



J. MEDLEY WOOD. 



