ENPages
(seq. 1)
WIII 5:1
General Instructions December 8th 1902
E.H. Wilson, Leave England the end of January 1903 - travelling via Hong Kong and Shanghai to that district determined in conversation with 'Dr' James H. Veitch.
In that district spend the Autumn of 1903, and then Spring, Summer and Autumn of 1904.
Collect seeds - following the same methods - in every way (underlined) as those practised on the last trip, bearing however in mind, that, though frequent postings of any one kind should be despatched, large quantities at a time - with few obvious exceptions - are not to be sent.
Send (word crossed out) seeds of all plants you meet with ---- better send seed [?] [rarity?] of fifty species than miss one which may be unknown.
The object of the journey
(seq. 2)
is to get a quantity of seed of a plant - the name and general locality of which is known------- this object is the object-------- Do not dissipate time - energy and money--- on any other.
In addition and when persuing this object -- get what else you can.
2-3000 bulbs of Liluring Henryii if obtainable at no real expense may be sent packed as before.
1-2000 seeds of [Davidia?] may be sent ----- if obtainable-----packed as before.
Arrive in England if possible by January 30-1905. If however it be not possible to reap the full benefit of the crop of the Autumn of 1904---remain till it is. It will probably not be possible -- but --- once this [word crossed out] object is [word 'obtaine' is crossed out] attained return with all speed.
(seq. 3)
W III 3:1
The last [trip?] was a success -- let not this damp your ardour or lessen your energy -- to rest on reputation means certain failure.
In addition to [s]the[/s] the sums of money provided before sailing the following sums will be to your credit at the address you have given on the dates named. It is much to be desired that these sums or if possible less cover the cost of the trip -- but if not you x give ample notice
June 1st 1903 [British pound symbol?]200 June 1st 1904 [British pound symbol?]200 June 1st .. [British pound symbol?]200 June 1st .. [British pound symbol?]100
Everything obtained is to be sent to Chelsea. Write J. Veitch [?] full details -- as before
Do not write details on plant work to your friends -- the most friendly actions of friends are often harmful -- keep a complete diary, [s]but[\s] and retain your knowledge for your own publication