consider that I simply did my duty--a duty that I would perform over
again if I were similarly placed. (Applause.) Still it is a source of
grateful satisfaction to me to know that our achievement has been
properly appreciated by the British Government and the great scientific
bodies, and also that my humble services have been appreciated by the
Royal Geographical Society, and by His Grace the Duke of Newcastle. I
beg, through your Excellency, most respectfully to thank His Grace and
the Royal Geographical Society for their recognition of my services. Such
recognition will always convince me that no man under this or any
government will do his duty without meeting his reward. (Great applause.)

...

His Excellency then introduced Mr. Landsborough to the meeting, and
intimated that that gentleman would give a narrative of his expedition.
His Excellency also introduced two aboriginals who had accompanied Mr.
Landsborough from Carpentaria.

Mr. Landsborough said he had much pleasure in meeting the Royal Society
and he was much gratified with the reception that had been accorded him.
His expedition had been the second to cross the continent of Australia
from Carpentaria, and he had been fortunate in finding a good road.
Through the liberality of the Royal Society he had a first rate outfit at
Brisbane. Unfortunately the transport Firefly, which conveyed himself and
party from Brisbane, was wrecked on Hardy's Island. However, a few days
afterwards, they were relieved by Captain Norman of the Victoria. Through
the exertions of Captain Norman, his officers, and crew the Firefly was
towed off the reef and the horses were reshipped and taken on to
Carpentaria. It had been supposed hitherto that the Albert River was not
a good place for landing horses; but the Firefly, a vessel of 200 tons,