On the night appointed, I repaired with a few friends to the scene of action—a spot about four miles from Ade laide, upon the banks of the Torrens. The moon had not yet risen, but the firmament was bright with innu merable constellations, and the air had all the softness of an Australian night. As we approached the native bi vouac, we perceived their small fires ; for these people consume fuel very sparingly, being of opinion that thus hiding their light under a bushel they are less likely to attract the observation of their enemies. The yelping of curs and the laughing of females and children welcomed our arrival, and we had forthwith to shake hands with King Jack and all the principal personages of his court. About a hundred and fifty natives were collected, and their spears, jagged with pieces of glass, reflected the light of the fires, and added to the wildness of the scene. We had not waited long ere it was intimated that the per formances of the evening were about to commence. The chief began with a low and muttered chant, beating time with his waddy upon his shield. He was speedily joined by others, who followed his example, whilst the females, squatting in a circle, beat with the palms of their hands upon kangaroo skins, doubled up into balls. By degrees the whole assemblage collected around; the women seating themselves, and the men adding to the strange chant, which very gradually in creased in loudness, although the tones were by no means musical. At length the men began to arrange themselves in a circle, towards the centre of which they advanced with a succession of leaps, uttering at the same time a peculiar noise, which is an imitation of the kangaroo. In this