expedition 
DOWN THE 
banks of the MACQUARIE RIVER, 
In 1828 and 1829. 
CHAPTER L 
state of theColonyin 1828-29- Objects of the Expedition -Departure 
from Sydney— Wellington Valley— Progress down the Macquarie 
Arrival at Mount Harris- Stopped by the marshes — Encamp 
amidst reeds — Excursions down die river- its termination— Ap- 
pearance of the marshes — Ophthalmic affection of the men — Mr. 
Hume’s successful journey to the northward — Journey across the 
plain— Second great marsh — Perplexities — Situation of the ex- 
ploring party — Consequent resolutions. 
The year 1826 was remarkable for the commencement of 
one of those fearful droughts to which we have reason to 
believe the climate of New South Wales is periodically sub- 
ject. It continued during the two following years with 
unabated severity. The surface of the earth became so 
parched up that minor vegetation ceased upon it. Culinary 
herbs were raised with difficulty, and crops failed even in 
the most favourable situations. Settlers drove their flocks 
B 
