I am to inform you that in this neighbourhood the Macquarie has ceased to flow, and that it is now a chain of shallow ponds.  The water is fast diminishing in it, and unless rain descends in a few weeks it will be perfectly dry.

I am also to report, that the natives attempted the camp with the supplies before my arrival at Mount Harris, but that on the soldier with the party firing a shot, after they had thrown a stone and other of the weapons, they fled.  It was in consequence of their fires, which I saw at a distance of forty miles, and which they never make on so extensive a scale, except as signals when they want to collect, and are inclined to be mischievous, that I made forced marches up, and I am led to believe my arrival was very opportune.  The natives have visited us since, and I do not think they will now attempt to molest either party when we separate.

I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient and most humble servant,
Charles sturt,
Capt. 39th Regt.

The Hon.  The colonial Secretary.

END OF VOLUME I

* * * * * * *

VOLUME II.

CONTENTS OF THE SECOND VOLUME

Expedition down the Morumbidgee and Murray rivers, in 1829, 1830 and 1831.

CHAPTER I.

Introductory—­Remarks on the results of the former Expedition—­The fitting out of another determined on—­Its objects—­Provisions, accoutrements, and retinue—­Paper furnished by Mr. Kent—­Causes that have prevented the earlier appearance of the present work.

CHAPTER II.

Commencement of the expedition in November, 1829.—­Joined by Mr. George M’Leay—­Appearance of the party—­Breadalbane Plains—­Hospitality of Mr. O’Brien—­Yass Plains—­Hill of Pouni—­Path of a hurricane—­Character of the country between Underaliga and the Morumbidgee—­Appearance of that river—­ Junction of the Dumot with it—­Crossing and recrossing—­Geological character and general aspect of the country—­Plain of Pondebadgery—­Few natives seen.

CHAPTER III.

Character of the Morumbidgee where it issues from the hilly country—­ Appearance of approach to swamps—­Hamilton Plains—­Intercourse with the natives—­Their appearance, customs, &c.—­Change in the character of the river—­Mirage—­Dreariness of the country—­Ride towards the Lachlan river —­Two boats built and launched on the Morumbidgee; and the drays, with part of the men sent back to Goulburn Plains.

CHAPTER IV.