Howitt had already gone. This I thought
a mistaken direction, as Howitt would be there before us, and the
north and east search being amply provided for, it appeared
profitless. The Government also proposed a surveying tour on their
own account, in conjunction with the search for the missing
explorers. These plans not exactly falling in with my view of the
business, I gave up my intention of forming one of the party. Mr.
McKinlay was a fine fellow, well adapted to the work; his
companions strong and lively, and of a proper age, neither too old
nor too young. Having seen him off, I determined to remain for a
time in Adelaide, a delightful place, where I found some of the
kindest and most agreeable acquaintances I have ever had the good
fortune to meet with.
The South Australian Register, of the 24th of August, 1861, gave
the following summary of the measures in progress:--
Our readers will perhaps be surprised to learn that a new
exploring expedition has just been sent to the northern interior. To
explore is clearly one of the missions of South Australia; but this
time the object is less one of curiosity than humanity. With Mr.
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