soo 



Scientific Intelligence, 



[NO. J, NEW SERIES, 



a small specimen of the Ceph&elis Ipecacuanha arc in the Garden) 

 but they appear to Buffer from the misty atmosphere. It is of the 

 utmost consequence, that the introduction of the true Cinchonas 

 should be fairly tried on the Neilgherries, and Mr. Mclvor is well 

 able to conduct the experiment. The drugs have been hitherto 

 delivered free of charge, it seems to me that the cost of productions 

 should be charged to the Medical Department, as this Institution 

 has always been hampered for want of Funds. 



Buildings. — The Conservatory sanctioned at an estimated cost 

 of Rupees 4,300 is far advanced towards completion, and will un- 

 questionably be a great acquisition to the Garden. The structure 

 was designed by Capt. Francis, Engineers, and approved by Mr. 

 Mclvor. The delay in its erection has been unavoidable, as re- 

 ported by the Committee. 



The seed-house lately suffered serious damage from fire and re- 

 quires to be rebuilt. The site selected by Mr. Mclvor is close to 

 his Bungalow in a dry and convenient situation. This is a most 

 important department of the Garden, from which seeds ripe and 

 correctly named can be at all times distributed to various parts of 

 the country. An alteration of this old seed-house so as to admit 

 four or even six apprentices and sleeping quarters would be highly 

 advantageous. A plan and estimate amounting 

 * Cth July 18 ' 57, to Rupees 1,650 has been forwarded* I under- 



stand by the Committee for sanction. This provides I believe for 

 flues and close-fitting drawers, dryness being essential for the pre- 

 servation of seeds. 



Seeds. — Mr. Mclvor has made some important attempts at grow- 

 ing European vegetable seeds in India. Experimental samples of 

 many kinds have been sent by him to Dr. Wight, and these are 

 now under trial in the Garden of the Horticultural Society, Lon- 

 don. If a favorable opinion be given, Southern India will no 

 longer be dependent for kitchen garden seeds upon England, France 

 or the Cape. So far as the seeds have been tested in this country 

 the result has been favorable, especially the Lettuce, Carrots, &c. 

 It has occurred to me that the Soldiers' Gardens of this Presidency 

 should be supplied .with Neilgherry and English seed in equal 



