it
lower down, the cattle were again taken on to the river, which they
reached in about nine miles; then travelling about another mile down
its banks, encamped. These were now decidedly more open, and the
country generally improved. The same strip of soft sandy flat about
half-a-mile wide continued, but better grassed, although the spear
grass was far too common. Bloodwood, stringy-bark, applegum and
acacia timbered the north bank; whilst on the south, tea-tree flats,
covered with spinifex, ran close down to the bed, the bank itself
being of red clay. Two channels, together making a width of about
300 yards, formed the bed, which was sandy, and held very little
water on the surface. No large trees occurred, save now and then a
vagrant nonda. Another cow was lost to-day, and "Lottie," a favorite
terrier, was missing. The latitude of Camp 31 was supposed to be 16
degrees 31 minutes 53 seconds, but doubtful.

'November' 30.--The river was followed down to-day for 11 miles. It
was very winding and irregular in its width. At the camp it was only
60 yards wide and running in one channel, whilst a mile above, it
measured nearly 400. Its general course was nearly west. The creek
which is formed by the lagoons, on which the party were so long
detained was crossed at about nine-and-a-half miles. The country at
its junction is flooded for a long distance back, and the river bed
sandy and thickly timbered. Although the country generally had
decidedly improved, inasmuch as that it was more open, devoid of
scrub, and the box flats on the river extending further back on each
side, it was by no means good. The flats were very scantily grassed,
chiefly with sour water grasses and spinifex, and shewed by the flood
marks that they must be quite impassable during floods or wet
weather. The dreary tea-tree levels might be seen in glimpses
through the white box of the flats extending far beyond. Several
small swamps were passed during the day, on which ducks and other
water-fowl were very numerous, the stately native companion stalking
near the margins. The large funnel ant-hills occurred from 2 to 15
feet high. The Fitzroy wallaby was plentiful, and the Leader shot an
emeu. Some large flights of white ibis, and slate-colored pigeons
passed high overhead, flying north, which might be a good indication.
Peter was sent back to seek for Lottie, but returned in the evening
unsuccessful.

'December' 1.--Maramie Creek was cro