Ferdinand von Mueller

1

MS not found. For the text given here, see Argus, 15 May 1863, p. 5. The letter was introduced by 'The following letter from Mr. G. Maxwell, of King George's Sound, who last summer explored the country at the western extremity of the Great Australian Bight, and is now accompanying Mr. Lanarch's exploring party, started to penetrate into the interior from Doubtful Island Bay, has been received by Dr. Mueller. The party being constituted of excellent bushmen, and the season so favourable for the enterprise, it is most likely that their exertions will be crowned with great success in opening up tracts of unknown country for civilization.’ The letter was reprinted in other papers, for example, Examiner, 16 May 1863, p. 8, and South Australian register, 19 May 1863, p. 3.

King George's Sound,

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WA.

April 26.

Dear Dr. Mueller, —

I am now able to inform you that I accompany the exploring party as botanic collector, and feel truly grateful for the generous kindness of Mr. Lanarch and party, in allowing me the privilege of joining them. The equipment and horses are good, and all of us are tried and experienced bushmen, determined to make discoveries; fifteen horses and six men. A small vessel is to wait upon us at different points, according to the facility and anchorage found along the coast, which will allow us the opportunity of making a dash into the interior at different places; in fact, the plan of operations is good, and I have no hesitation in saying we will be successful. Every thing is ready for a start, and we will leave here to-morrow, and will wait the arrival of the vessel at Doubtful Island Bay, where good grass for the horses can be obtained. The vessel not having yet arrived from the Swan, but being hourly expected, Mr. Lanarch and A. Dempster remain here; and if she does not make her appearance in another week, a small vessel will be obtained here, which will answer the purpose.

In haste, I am, dear sir, yours truly,