19 
Descfiptive Notes on Papuan P lants, 
philosophic contemplationSj far more important for a comprehen- 
sive history of our glohe, than the absolute specific elucidation 
of the vegetative forms themselves. In my concluding these 
introductory words it is but just to express my. gratitude to the 
Hon. Sir Jam. McCulloch, the Premier of the Victorian Ministry, 
and to the Hon. J. A. MacPherson, the Chief Secretary, for per- 
mitting the issue of these records on the Papuan plants as official 
documents in connection with our phytographic museum. 
It is also gratifying to add, that the reverend gentleman, who 
generously contributed the material for this second treatise, has 
declared his intention, to secure likewise during his future mis- 
sionary voyages and travels, with the aid of his reverend brethren, 
new material for the progressive elucidation of the Papuan Plora ; 
while the distinguished zoologist. Signor d’ Albertis, through the 
friendly mediation of the learned physician and naturalist, Dr. 
G. Bennett, has expressed his willingness, to devote during his 
most promising new traversings in the east of Papua also some 
of his precious time there to the formation of phytologic collec- 
tions with a view of rendering such accessible to myself ; and thus 
we may trust, that Australia may share in the honor of shedding 
extensively light on the vegetable products — some perhaps of 
undreamed value — which emanate solely from the secluded main- 
haunts of the Birds of Paradise. 
Melbourne, 7th April 1876, 
