amongst whom were several
of our most respectable colonists and their families, took up a
position in front.

The MAYOR OF MELBOURNE then mounted one of the drays, and said: Mr.
Burke--I am fully aware that the grand assemblage, this day, while
it has impeded your movements in starting, is at the same time a
source of much gratification to you. It assures you of the most
sincere sympathy of the citizens. (Hear, hear.) I will not detain
you; but for this great crowd, and on behalf of the colony at
large, I say--God speed, you! (Cheers.) His Worship then called for
"three cheers for Mr. Burke," "three cheers for Mr. Landells," and
"three cheers for the party itself," which, it is needless to say,
were responded to with all the energy and enthusiasm that are the
characteristics of popular assemblages. He then concluded with
again saying, "God speed and bless you!"

Mr. BURKE (uncovered) said, in a clear earnest voice that was heard
all over the crowd:

Mr. Mayor,--On behalf of myself and the Expedition I beg to return
you my most sincere thanks. No expedition has ever started under
such favourable circumstances as this. The people, the Government,
the committee--all have done heartily what they could do. It is now
our turn; and we shall never do well till we justify what you have
done in showing what we can do. (Cheers.)

The party at once got into motion. Following the leader were
several pack horses, led by some of the assistants on foot. Then
came Mr. Landells, on a camel, next Dr. Becker, similarly mounted,
and these were succeeded by two European assistants, riding on
camels--one leading the ambulance camel, and the other leading two
animals loaded with provisions. Sepoys on foot led the remainder of
the camels, four and five in hand, variously loaded, and the
caravan was closed by one mounted sepoy. Altogether twenty-seven
camels go with the expedition. Two new waggons, heavily loaded,
followed at a good distance. These were built expressly for the
expedition, and one of them is so constructed, that at a very short
notice it can be taken off the wheels, and put to all the uses of a
river punt, carrying an immense load high and dry on the water. If
it be necessary to swim the camels, air bags are provided to be
lashed under their jowls, so as to keep their heads clear when
crossing deep streams. Two or three hired waggons and one of the
new ones, were detained in the park till nearly dusk, in charge of
the ast