The flax-plant, which was seen at the first arrival of our people, has not been found since in any great abundance.

A most ample supply of this valuable article may, however, always be obtained from Norfolk Island.

Governor Phillip, when he judged the seeds to be ripe, ordered them to be collected, but at that time very few of the plants were found, and not any in the places where the greatest quantity had been seen.

It is thought that the natives pull up the plant when it is in flower to make their fishing lines.
On the whole, notwithstanding the difficulties and disadvantages at first experienced, which, though great, were not more than must naturally be expected to occur in such an undertaking; notwithstanding the sicknesses which from various causes prevailed for some time among the people, the settlement at Sydney Cove wore a very promising aspect at the time when the last accounts were sent; and there can be no doubt that it will be found hereafter fully to answer every expectation which was formed when the design was projected.

The scantiness of the streams of fresh water was thought at first unfavourable, but good springs have since been found by digging.