CH. I.] DESCRIPTION OF THE BOAT-CARKIAGE. 149 



In the mean time, two light whale boats were built by 

 Mr. Eager of the dock-yard at Sydney ; and wood was cut 

 for the felloes of wheels which would be required for a boat- 

 carriage and carts, and it was laid up to season in the lumber 

 yard at Paramatta. 



In completing the equipment for the journey, in the fol- 

 lowing year, at the same place, I was much indebted to the 

 zealous assistance of Mr. Simpson, of the department of 

 roads. 



The boat-carriage was constructed according to a model, 

 made by my friend Mr. Dunlop, King's Astronomer at Pa- 

 ramatta, and the plan of it will be easily understood by the 

 accompanying figure. One boat was made to fit within the 



other, the thawrts of the larger or outer one, being taken 

 out. The double boat, thus formed, was suspended on belts 

 of canvass, which supported it buoyant and clear of the 

 frame work. Those parts of the canvass of the carriage, 

 most liable to friction, were guarded with sheepskin and 

 greased hide. The smaller boat was suspended within the 

 larger, also on canvass, so as to swing clear of the outer 

 boat's sides ; and the whole was covered by a tarpaulin, 

 thrown over a ridge poll. 



Besides Mr. Richard Cunningham, who was attached to 

 the expedition as botanist, Mr. Larmer, a very young assis- 

 tant surveyor, was appointed to accompany me ; the services 

 of the other officers of the department being required for 

 duties within the settled districts. 



