conversation that we had with regard to Lieutenant Woods, in applying to
you for that gentleman to accompany me in the expedition, of which I have
the command, in search of Mr. Burke and his companions; and I feel that
for the unsurveyed western country in the route which I am instructed to
take, I have much more necessity for the services of that officer in an
astronomical point of view than Mr. Walker can have.

I have got a sextant for taking the latitude, but I have not a
chronometer, as Mr. Gregory thought the jolting it would get should
render it useless.

I hope, therefore, for the cause of science, etc., you will reconsider
the conversation I have had with you on the subject.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

(Signed) W. LANDSBOROUGH,

Commander of the Victorian and Queensland Land Expedition.

...

(COPY.)

(NUMBER 1.)

Victoria, off the Albert River, October 19 1861.