Ferdinand von Mueller

Queenscliff

1

Vic.

28/8/67

Though I have nothing of geographical importance to report, dear Sir Roderick, I send at least a few lines to render my assurance, that I will exert myself to the utmost to retrieve the misfortune of the campaign of 1867 & reorganize the Leichhardt Search party for a dashing effort in 1868. For this year, through the unexpected early return of the party, the cooler season is lost.

2

The expedition was reorganized following the death on 4 June 1866 of its leader, Duncan McIntyre (see J Sharkey to M, 11 June 1866; Agreement (between D. Campbell and M), 27 August 1866; and M to H. Manners-Sutton, 28 August 1866 (in this edition as 66-08-28a)). Further reorganization was needed after the death of William Sloman; see M to F. Barlee, 23 February 1867 (in this edition as 67-02-23a).

I am also in regular communication with the Colonial Secretary of West Australia,

3

John Roe.

and have the assurance of Governor Hamden

4

Error for [John Stephen] Hampton, Governor of WA at this time.

and his Councillors, that a final effort shall be made by their colony to penetrate the West half of the Interior of the Continent in 1868.

General Carey, who acted here during the interregnum as Governor,

5

Between the Governorships of Charles Darling and Henry Manners-Sutton.

and who maintained the vice-regal dignity admirably, has left us by the "Great Britain" last weak. The General is one of the most generous and noble hearted men I ever met in life, and his friendship here to me was to me always most encouraging & cheering. I am convinced you will be delighted when you meet him. On a more worthy man the British Ministry and her Majesty could not bestow honors.

6

Carey had the CB, bestowed for military service in NZ before appointment to Australia. No further honours were bestowed after Carey's return to military posts in Britain (DNB).