Almost all the surface water had dried up, or now consisted of stagnant mud only, so that we were obliged to push on for the Park, at which we arrived on the 8th.

On the 10th we completed the year, it being the anniversary of our departure from Adelaide.
I found that every thing had gone on regularly in the camp during my absence, and that the cattle and sheep had been duly attended to.
Davenport had also dug and planned out a fine garden, which he had planted with seeds, but none had as yet made their appearance above the ground.
The day after our return to the camp we were visited by two natives, who were attracted towards us by the sound of the axe.

They were crossing the plain, and were still at a considerable distance when they observed Davenport pointing a telescope, on which they stopped, but on my sending a man to meet them, came readily forward.

We were in hopes that we should see our old friend in the person of one of them, but were disappointed; nor would they confirm any of his intelligence, neither could they recognise any of the fish in the different plates I had shewn him.

In truth, we could get nothing out of these stupid fellows; but, as we gave them plenty to eat, they proposed bringing some other natives to taste our mutton, on the following day; and, leaving us, returned, as they said, with their father and brother, the latter a fine young lad.