264 , Instructions for 



In surveying the basin of a river, or in proceeding along the 

 prevailing slope of a country, it is very desirable to determine as 

 many points as possible on the same level, and form thus as it 

 Avere a parallel of elevation to the level of the sea. A line of this 

 kind traced at the altitude of, say 1000 feet, would determine in 

 a considerable degree the physical condition of extensive spaces 

 on the map on both sides of it. The stations of most interest 

 will be found at the extremities of transverse arms of the ridge, 

 or in the central and most retiring points of the intervening 

 spaces. Let the general slope of the country on both sides of 

 such stations, be noted as to its rate and direction ; and in 

 regard to the vallies which intersect the slope, let their width, 

 direction, and general rate of declivity, and the section and 

 velocity of their streams, be ascertained, and the probable 

 course of the ri\ers, as far as it can be determined by the ap- 

 pearance of the country, and the reports of the natives ; giving 

 them the abori|iinal names when they can be discovered. The 

 altitude and acclivity of remarkable peaks or ridges should also 

 be investigated, along with the nature of their climate and of 

 the clouds formed upon them. It will be requisite also to 

 mark with care the nature of the winds and sky as well as the 

 temperature at stations in the neighbourhood, and to note the 

 influence which changes of that description have upon the 

 barometer, and observe also the temperature of deep pools or 

 lakes and copious springs. 



The geological structure of the country is especially worthy 

 of minute and extended observation, and will require that notes 

 be kept of all such appearances as indicate or accompany 

 changes of structure in the formation or of components in the 

 soil and surface, especially such fossil remains of plants or 

 animals as may occur, and metallic ores, and that proper specie 

 mens accompany these notes, ticketed on the spot with precise 

 localities. 



The Botanical researches of the expedition will extend ta 

 the preservation of specimens of plants not found in the colony,, 

 and especially of transportable roots and the seeds of all such as 

 may be found in a ripened state, noting localities and the varieties 

 of aspect which vegetation puts on in different situations. In 

 regard to other branches of natural history, as it is obvious that 

 after a short experience of research under your direction, 

 almost every one will be able to recognize and preserve what 

 IS rare or novel, no further instruction needs to be given, ex- 

 cept the general expression of the desire of the Committee that 

 all shall endeavour to secure for the Expedition whatever itt 

 any department they esteem valuable, it being expressly under- 

 stood that every article collected by each individual belongs in 

 property to the Subscribers to the Expedition collectively. 



In regard to the inhabitants themselves it is of paramount in- 



