lthough it was evident
that we had arrived at what might strictly be called the marshes of the
Macquarie, I still thought we might be at some distance from the place
where Mr. Oxley terminated his journey.

There was no indication in the river to encourage an idea that it would
speedily terminate; nor, although we were on ground subject to
extensive inundation, could we be said to have reached the heart of the
marshes, as the reeds still continued in detached bodies only. We
forced a path through various portions of them, and passed over ground
wholly subject to flood, to a distance of about six miles. We then
crossed a small rise of ground, sufficiently high to have afforded a
retreat, had necessity obliged us to seek for one; and we shortly
afterwards descended on the river, unaltered in its appearance, and
rather increased than diminished in size. A vast plain extended to the
N.W., the extremity of which we could not discern; though a thick
forest formed its northern boundary.

It was evident that this plain had been frequently under water, but it
was difficult to judge from the marks on the trees to what height the
floods had risen. The soil was an alluvial deposit, superficially
sandy; and many shells were scattered over its surface. To the south,
the country appeared close and low; nor do I think we could have
approached the river from that side, by reason of the huge belts of
reeds that appeared to extend as far as the the eye could reach.

MEN ATTACKED WITH OPHTHALMIA.

The approach of night obliged us to return to the camp. On our arrival,
we found that the state of Henwood and Williams would prevent our
stirring for a day or two. Not only had they a return of inflammation,
but several other of the men complained of a painful irritation of the
eyes, which were dreadfully blood-shot and weak. I was in some measure
prepared for a relapse in Henwood, as the exposure which he necessarily
underwent on the plain was sufficient to produce that effect; but I now
became apprehensive that the affection would run through the party.

Considering our situation in its different bearings, it struck me that
the men who were to return to Wellington Valley with an account our our
proceedings for the Governor's information, had been brought as far as
prudence warranted. There was no fear of their going astray, as long as
they had the river to guide them; but in the open country which we were
to all appearance approaching, or