It may appear that I had given these officers but a short respite from their late labours; but the truth is that a camp life is a monotonous one, and both enjoyed such excursions, and when there was no necessity for other arrangements, as they evinced a great interest in the expedition, I was glad to contribute to their pleasures, and should have rejoiced if it had fallen to their lot to make any new and important discovery.
My instructions to Mr.Poole on these occasions were general.

To keep a course somewhat to the eastward of north, but to be guided by circumstances.

I thought it better to give him that discretionary power, since I could not know what changes might take place in the country.
I sent Flood at the same time to ride along the base of the ranges; but desired him not to be absent more than three or four days, as I myself contemplated an excursion to the eastward, to examine the country on that side as I passed up it.
The reader will observe, that although slowly, we were gradually, and, I think, steadily working our way into the interior.

At that time I hoped with God's blessing we should have raised the veil that had so long hung over it, more effectually than we did.

Up to that period we had been exceedingly fortunate; nothing had occurred to disturb the tranquillity of our proceedings; no natives to interrupt our movements; no want either of water or grass for our cattle, however scarce the parties scouring the country might have found it; no neglect on the part of the men, and a consequent efficient state of the whole party.