[11]The Darling, during more than half the year, would, it appears, be navigable for upwards of 150 miles from its junction with the Murray. A few years ago indeed, it was settled as far as Lake Minindie, a Government Reserve, 200 miles from the mouth; but the outrages of the blacks—the distance from an available market—or other causes—led to the abandonment of these runs. It has now only 50,000 sheep upon its banks; but would, it is said, depasture four times that number, and might be occupied up to Fort Bourke, 500 miles from the junction. The waters of the Darling, at times fordable, begin to rise about July, and subside again in February.
[12]According to Mr. Jamieson, Mickie had a companion; and the native was alone.
[13]In Victoria, as much as 35s. had been demanded for one day’s stabling and food for one horse.
[14]These birds were afterwards brought on board and conveyed to Adelaide.
[15]These “store” sheep, as they are called, are sent overland to be fattened on the banks of the river, whence the clip is easily transported to Adelaide.
[16]In the Wakool we found three and a-half fathoms water.
[17]As in some degree confirmatory of this last extract, it may be mentioned that on taking in wood, at the Great Bend, we were informed that, of the woodcutters who had been working for us, one had been a West India proprietor, and the other the nephew of a noble Earl, whose ancestors have borne a prominent place in Irish history.
[18]It is worthy of remark, that the sheep on the Murray appear to be singularly exempt from disease—neither catarrh, scab, nor foot rot, being now known amongst them.
[19]The nearest diggings to Swan Hill are the Koorong, about 100 miles distant.
[20]On this voyage, up the Murray, has been remarked by more than one of our party the singular resemblance to Gothic arches presented by the overhanging trees. It is not impossible that the idea of their construction has thus originated; at any rate, of the notion we may, I think, say with the Italian, si non è vero è ben trovato.