h
not unusual on the sand ridges, of which the cattle were very fond. In
crossing the stony plains to this creek we picked up a number of round
balls, of all sizes, from that of a marble to that of a cannon ball; they
were perfect spheres, and hollow like shells, being formed of clay and
sand cemented by oxide of iron. Some of these singular balls were in
clusters like grape-shot, others had rings round them like Saturn's ring;
and as I have observed, the plains were covered with them in places.
There can be no doubt, I think, but that they were formed by the action
of water, and that constant rolling, when they were in a softer state,
gave them their present form.

The day succeeding that of our arrival at Flood's Creek was one of
tremendous heat; but in the afternoon the wind flew round to the S.W.
from the opposite point of the compass, and it became cooler. On the
11th, I detached Mr. Poole and Mr. Browne, with a fortnight's provisions,
to the N.E. in search of water. It may appear that I had given these
officers but a short respite from their late labours; but the truth is
that a camp life is a monotonous one, and both enjoyed such excursions,
and when there was no necessity for other arrangements, as they evinced a
great interest in the expedition, I was glad to contribute to their
pleasures, and should have rejoiced if it had fallen to their lot to make
any new and important discovery.

My instructions to Mr. Poole on these occasions were general. To keep a
course somewhat to the eastward of north, but to be guided by
circumstances. I thought it better to give him that discretionary power,
since I could not know what changes might take place in the country.

I sent Flood at the same time to ride along the base of the ranges; but
desired him not to be absent more than three or four days, as I myself
contemplated an excursion to the eastward, to examine the country on that
side as I passed up it.

The reader will observe, that although slowly, we were gradually, and, I
think, steadily working our way into the interior. At that time I hoped
with God's blessing we should have raised the veil that had so long hung
over it, more effectually than we did. Up to that period we had been
exceedingly fortunate; nothing had occurred to disturb the tranquillity
of our proceedings; no natives to interrupt our movements; no want either
of water or grass for our cattle, however scarce the parties scouring the
country might ha