Feb. 1836. 



MOUNT WELLINGTON. 



535 



examining the geological structure of the immediate neigh- 

 bourhood. The main points of interest consist, first in the 

 presence of certain basaltic rocks which evidently have flowed 

 as lava ; secondly^ in some great un stratified masses of green- 

 stone ; thirdly, in proofs of an exceedingly small rise of the 

 land ; fourthly, in some ancient fossiliferous strata, probably 

 of the age of the Silurian system of Europe ; and lastly, in a 

 a solitary and superficial patch of yellowish limestone or 

 travertin, which contains numerous impressions of leaves of 

 trees and plants, not now existing. It is not improbable that 

 this one small quarry, includes the only remaining record of 

 the vegetation of Van Diemen^s Land during one former epoch. 



Mr. Frankland, the surveyor-general, was kind enough to 

 give me much interesting information, and to take me several 

 pleasant rides. The climate here is damper than in New 

 South Wales, and hence the land is more fertile. Agricul- 

 ture flourishes here : the cultivated fields looked well, and 

 the gardens abounded with thriving vegetables and fruit-trees. 

 Some of the farm-houses, situated in retired spots, had a very 

 tempting appearance. The general aspect of the vegetation 

 is similar to that of Australia : perhaps it is a little more green 

 and cheerful ; and the pasture between the trees rather more 

 abundant. One day I took a long walk on the side of the 

 bay opposite to the town : I crossed in a steam-boat, two of 

 which are constantly plying backwards and forwards. The 

 machinery of one of these vessels was entirely manufactured 

 in this colony, which, from its very foundation then num- 

 bered only three-and-thirty years ! If I was obliged to 

 emigrate, I think I would choose this place in preference to 

 Sydney : the climate and aspect of the country alone would 

 almost determine me. Moreover, I suspect society is here 

 on a pleasanter footing ; certainly it is free from the contami- 

 nation of rich convicts, and the dissensions consequent on 

 the existence of two classes of wealthy residents. The colony 

 appeared extremely well governed; the streets at night being 

 kept even more orderly than those of an English town. 



On another day I ascended Mount Wellington; I took 



