sunset it could only be seen for a short time, and then it was
comparatively dim, owing to the twilight. Since then it has rapidly
disappeared, moving in an east-south-easterly direction. With you
it was probably very fine. With kind love, etc., etc.,

Believe me, my dear mother,

Your affectionate son,

WILLIAM J. WILLS.

CHAPTER 6.

THE EXPEDITION.

How the Expedition originated.
Appointment of the Leader, Officers, and Party.
Mr. Robert O'Hara Burke, Mr. G.J. Landells, Mr. W.J. Wills,
Dr. Herman Beckler, Dr. Ludwig Becker, etc.
The Expedition starts from Melbourne on the 20th of August, 1860.
Progress to Swan Hill.
Discharge of Mr. Ferguson, the Foreman.
Advance to Menindie.
Resignation of Mr. Landells and Dr. Herman Beckler.
Mr. Wills promoted to second in Command, and Mr. Wright to third.

THE Exploring Expedition of 1860 originated thus. A gentleman,
whose name is still concealed, offered one thousand pounds as an
inducement to the Government and other parties to come forward and
raise funds for an exploration of the island continent, now known