49 
are conspicuous—is on the northern bank of the river. A simple 
and effective system of irrigation from shallow wells of good water 
has been brought into requisition, and the whole of the extensive 
area can be watered in a very short time by the use of several 
pumps. The water in the Finke river, now running in a small 
stream, 1s of varying quality. In some places it is perfectly fresh ; 
in other parts it is brackish, and even salt. Dr. Stirling, with Mr. 
Heidenreich, returned from a trip to the Glen of Palms this after- 
noon. Numerous natives, terribly dilapidated in appearance, are 
camped in the vicinity of the station. From these we have 
obtained a number of native implements for the ethnological 
collection. I was occupied with astronomical observations until 
midnight. 
Thursday, July 5th.—Bar. 27-97in., ther. 25°. I was employed 
at my plans, magnetic and other observations, and computations 
until 10 p.m. Mr. Keartland has been constantly employed in 
preserving birds, of which a large variety has been obtained here. 
Friday, July 6th.—Bar. 27-94in., ther. 32°. I have sent an 
additional supply of rations to Professors Spencer and Tate, who 
- desired permission to prolong their stay at Palm Creek on account 
of the scientific productiveness of the locality. I was occupied 
until 10 p.m. with my calculations, plans, and other matters. I 
find that the altitude of Mount Giles, in the main tier of the 
Macdonneil Ranges east of Mount Sonder, is 4,260ft. 
Saturday, July 7th.—Bar. 27-97in., ther. 31°. I proceeded to 
the ranges south of the camp to complete the topographical sketch 
of this country, and observed the magnetic dip. Mr. Belt returned 
to Palm Creek and reported that the other members of the party 
would come back to-morrow. 
Sunday, July 8th.—Bar. 28-02in., ther. 39°. Accompanied by 
Mr. Belt I visited Bagot’s Springs, four and a half miles west of 
our camp, mapping the natural features of the surrounding country. 
Mr. Belt obtained additional specimens of a new species of finch 
and of other birds at this spring and during the journey back 
to the camp. Professors Tate and Spencer returned from Palm 
Creek at 3°30 p.m., highly satisfied with the result of their stay 
there. The generosity and kindness of Mr. Heidenreich and Mr. 
Foster of Hermannsburg Station to the party exceed all praise; 
they most hospitably entertained us during our sojourn at the 
station, supplying us with whatever we desired. 
Monday, July 9th.—Bar. 27°97in., ther. 34°. The caravan did 
not leave until 10 a.m. This late start was due to the disarrange- 
ment of the loads in consequence of our extended stop at this 
D 
