72 
CHAPTER IV. 
Embarkation of the party in the boats, and voyage down the Morum- 
bidgee — The skiff swamped by striking on a sunken tree — Re- 
covery of boat and its loading — Region of reeds — Dangers of the 
navigation — Contraction of the channel — Reach the junction of a 
large river ■ — Intercourse with the natives on its banks — Character 
of the country below the junction of the rivers — Descent of a 
dangerous rapid — Warlike demonstrations of a tribe of natives — 
Unexpected deliverance from a conflict with them — Junction of 
another river — Give the name of the “ Murray” to the principal 
stream. 
The camp was a scene of bustle and confusion long before 
day-light. The men whom I had selected to accompany 
me were in high spirits, and so eager to commence their 
labours that they had been unable to sleep, hut busied 
themselves from the earliest dawn in packing up their va- 
rious articles of clothing, &c. We were prevented from 
taking our departure so early as I had intended, by rain 
that fell about six. At a little after seven, however, the 
weather cleared up, the morning mists blew over our heads, 
and the sun struck upon us with his usual fervour. As 
soon as the minor things were stowed away, we bade 
adieu to Harris and his party ; and, shortly after, em- 
