landed near the mouth of Port Phillip, on Seal Island. They returned with the news that there was a total want of fresh water, and the soil was so “ extremely light and sandy as to deny all hopes of successful cultivation.” On the 10th the Chaplain went on shore, and was by no means satisfied with the country. Again was a search made for fresh water by the Governor, Captain and First Lieutenant, and again were they to meet with disappointment. The Surgeon examined the shore on the 12th, and found that water fit for use might be obtained by sinking in the sand near the sea. Holes were made, and casks placed to receive the drainage. The site chosen for the settlement was the eastern shore of Port Phillip, about 8 miles from the Heads. The whole party landed on the 16th instant. They were indeed disheartened and disappointed; for, says Tuckey, “The external appearance of the country flattered us into the most delusive dreams of fruitfulness and plenty.” To remain in this desolate and barren region was not to be thought of. The launch and cutter were fitted out under the command of Lieutenant Tuckey, to survey the shore, and find, if possible, a more eligible situation. Some water was found, but the exploration was incomplete and unsatisfactory. The writer apologizes for not examining the northern extremity of the Bay by reason of the shortness of time and the badness of the weather. Of one place he tells us, “ the bed of this stream is covered with foliaceous mica, which our people at first conceived to be gold dust, and thence expected they had dis covered an Elsatedorado.” Little did those who turned their backs upon such a Colony think of a time when it would become the Ophir of the world. It is curious that a gold mania beset the first settlers of Port Jackson. A prisoner came one day to the camp and reported gold. The officers went to the spot, and there among the sand sparkled some yellow grains. Demanding a reward for his dis covery, suspicion was aroused. He was seized, placed in confine ment, and threatened with severe punishment if he would not dis close the trick. He then confessed that he had stolen a guinea, and cutting it and some brass buttons into small pieces, he strewed them on the soil. Twenty-five lashes were administered as a reward for his auriferous invention. Upon this boat excursion our party came in contact with the abo rigines. A mob of 200 surrounded them, at the north-west side of the point. The women were in the back-ground. The men wore necklaces of reeds and head dresses of swan’s feathers. Their faces
