The pass through which the creek issued from the hills was on our left, Coonbaralba being between us and it, but that hill was perfectly inaccessible; I thought it better therefore to return to sleep at the water where we had breakfasted, with a view to running the creek up into the ranges on the following morning.

After taking bearings of the principal objects visible from our station, we rejoined Morgan and descended to the plains.

There was a little water in the creek leading from the hill I had at first intended to ascend, to the S.W., which was no doubt a branch of the main creek.

On our return we saw that beautiful flower the Clianthus formosa, in splendid blossom on the plains.

It was growing amidst barrenness and decay, but its long runners were covered with flowers that gave a crimson tint to the ground.
The principal object I had in view during the excursion I was then employed upon, was if possible to find a proper position to which the party might move; for I foresaw that my absence would be frequent and uncertain, and although my men were very well disposed towards the natives, I was anxious to prevent the chance of collision or misunderstanding.