Here an entirely open country--covered with grass, and apparently unbounded to the westward; now ascending, first, in fine ranges, and forming a succession of almost isolated, gigantic, conical, and dome-topped mountains, which seemed to rest with a flat unbroken base on the plain below--was spread before our delighted eyes.

The sudden alteration of the scene, therefore, inspired us with feelings that I cannot attempt to describe.

Proceeding onwards we passed some water-holes; but, farther on, the water failed, except here and there in a few pools, in the creeks coming from the range, that had been filled by the last thunder-showers.

These pools were generally lined with patches of a narrow-leaved tea tree; and were full of basaltic pebbles.
The breeze set in full and strong, as usual, at a quarter past eight o'clock; the night was bright and cool, and the following morning inexpressibly beautiful.
We enjoyed a dish of cockatoos for supper: the place abounds with them.
Jan.

27 .-- Charley went back to bring forward our party, whilst I proceeded with Mr.Calvert to reconnoitre the plains under the peaks, feeling confident of finding water at their foot.