ISSUE OF PROVISIONS. 
177 
should then be taken to ease them as circumstances require. 
I never suflered the saddles to be removed from the backs 
of the animals under my charge for twenty minutes after 
the termination of the journey for the day, in order to guard 
against the effects of the sun ; and where the least swelling 
appeared the saddle was altered and the place dressed. Yet, 
notwithstanding all this care and attention, several both of 
the horses and bullocks were at one time in a sad condition, 
during the first journey, — so much so as almost to para- 
lize our efforts. It would be advisable that such animals 
as are entirely free from blemish should be chosen for the 
service of expeditions, for, with proper management they 
might be kept in order. The anxiety of mind attendant on 
a bad state of the animals is really quite embarrassing, for 
It not only causes a delay in the movements, but a derange- 
ment in the loads. Other animals are overburdened, and 
there is no knowing where the evil will stop. 
In addition to the pack-animals, I would recommend the 
employment of a dray or cart under any practicable circum- 
stances. It serves to carry necessary comforts, gives an 
expedition greater facility for securing its collections, and is 
of inconceivable advantage in many other respects. 
Constant and most earnest attention should be paid 
to the issue of provisions, on the discreet management of 
which so much depends, and the charge of them should be 
committed to the second in command. The most important 
articles are flour, tea, sugar, and tobacco. All should be 
husbanded with extreme care, and weighed from time to 
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