that we are about half-way across the continent. I hope by the time
that this reaches you we shall not only have been entirely across,
but back here again, and possibly on our way to Melbourne. There is
no probability of the expedition lasting two or three years. I
expect to be in town again within twelve months from the time of
starting. I enclose a few chrysanthemums from the Australian
desert. I know you will highly prize them. To give you an idea of
Cooper's Creek, fancy extensive flat, sandy plains, covered with
herbs dried like hay, and imagine a creek or river, somewhat
similar in appearance and size to the Dart above the Weir, winding
its way through these flats, having its banks densely clothed with
gum trees and other evergreens:--so far there appears to be a
considerable resemblance, but now for the difference. The water of
Cooper's Creek is the colour of flood-water in the Dart; the latter
is a continuous running stream; Cooper's Creek is only a number of
waterholes. In some places it entirely disappears, the water in
flood-time spreading all over the flats and forming no regular
channel. The flies are very numerous, so that one can do nothing
without having a veil on; and whilst eating the only plan is to
wear goggles.

. . .

His next letter is written with ink:--

December 15th.

DEAR BESSY,

Since scribbling the above, I have been up to the place from