Summary

Would like to see JT’s published report on potato experiments.

Summary

Encourages JT’s experiments. His case of flowering of black potatoes is curious. CD surprised that they are odoriferous and visited by bees. This letter was thought to be to David Moore, because it was in the private collection of a descendant, but is extremely close to a draft to JT on the letter from JT, 30 April 1879 (DCP-LETT-12020). It is not known how it passed from JT to David Moore.

Summary

Has seen newspaper accounts of JT’s potato experiments. T. H. Farrer wants to know whether JT has published any account of them, and how much assistance he needs.

Summary

Wrote to T. H. Farrer about JT’s potato experiments. Would be calamity if JT were prevented from trying successful fungus-proof variety for a few more years.

Summary

Describes problems of raising money [for potato experiments]. "A Government official in another office remarked to me that it was very difficult for Ministers to decide what to do in such cases as they must be prepared for mere cavillers in the H[ouse] of Commons."

Summary

Glad to hear about vines.

Hopes JT will be able to continue work without Government aid. "It is enough to sicken one to see how politicians waste their time squabbling and neglect doing any good."