BANKS OF THE COWIE. 
105 
Having crossed the river, we inspected the 
large steam mill on its opposite bank, the pro- 
perty of Mr. Cock — busily employed in grind- 
ing flour and other avocations. Immediately 
above the mill, on an elevation of the ground, 
stood the castellated house and gardens of the 
proprietor; where we were hospitably received, 
and urged to remain. Declining this kind offer, 
we pressed on towards Southwell, which was 
our next halting place. As we proceeded to- 
wards this, we passed along the banks of the 
Cowie, until nearly abreast of the Mansfield. 
This is a location, about ten miles from the 
mouth, and seven from Bathurst; and up to 
which the river is navigable, if only the formi- 
dable bar of sand across its mouth were once 
removed. This the proprietors are energeti- 
cally attempting to effect, and, lately, a grant 
of £50,000 has been obtained for the purpose. 
We sincerely wish well to this laudable under- 
taking; which, if accomplished, will tend to 
double the importance of this district. 
Advancing towards Southwell, we passed se- 
veral large farms, all maintaining the high 
character of Albany for agriculture and indus- 
try. The crops appearing good and abundant, 
and the tillage and stowage of them managed 
in a practical manner. At the location itself, 
there is nothing very remarkable at the present; 
