Ferdinand von Mueller

Bowen Downs 10 Apl 73

My dear Baron,

Tomorrow I start for the Westward and I shall be guided by the nature of the country and the facilities that water affords to carry out the project so long contempalted, I shall note everything worthy of being recorded paying especial regard to the preservation and collection of plants. I estimate my absence will be for nearly three months — I shall keep to the south side of the coast range and thus avoid the low country. I have little doubt but that something will turn up satisfactorily if alone in a geographical point of view, but I feel persuaded that minerals must be found.

I must not be too sanguine as to success, but rest assured that the utmost vigilance will be exercised to detect the slightest clue to Leichhardts fate — —

The party consists of 4 whites, including myself and two black boys and about 16 horses — I shall keep the record of course and Diary — the various rocks shall be described — and the country fully described as to its suitability for pastoral purposes —

Pray convey my intentions to the Ladies Committee

1

Ladies' Leichhardt Search Committee.

and my apologies for having delayed so long to fulfil my engagement.

Baron F. von Mueller C.M.G.