would be found on the banks of the river to
generate steam, when the supply of coal was exhausted, or not easily
to be procured. The whole squadron was under the command of Captain
Harris of the royal navy, whose experience on the coast during a
period of six years entitled him to the confidence of the promoters
of the expedition. Macgregor Laud, esquire, of Liverpool, as
supercargo, and Mr. Briggs, of Liverpool, surgeon, accompanied the
expedition. To the latter gentlemen was confided the botanical
department, and also that of natural history, being fully competent
to investigate the very important branches connected with those
sciences, either for philosophical or commercial results.

The Columbine brig was 170 tons, commanded by Captain Miller, being
laden with coals for the steamers, and a variety of articles for
presents, trade, or barter, and a few passengers. The Alburkha
steamer was commanded by Captain Hill, and was admitted to be a model
of a vessel, although with the exception of the decks, being entirely
built of iron. She had a crew of fourteen men.

Lander carried with him a number of copies of an address, prepared by
Mr. Salame, and intended to explain the objects of their visit to the
native chiefs and kings. They were printed on all kinds of coloured
paper and being adorned with pictures of the two steam boats, were
likely enough to be regarded not merely as ambassadorial letters, but
as beautiful specimens of the fine arts by the sovereigns to whom
they were to be presented.

By the ample provision that was made, it would almost seem that every
difficulty was anticipated, and certainly no individual was better
fitted than Lander to direct the outfit of the expedition, he having
been twice in the country, and had acquired a perfect knowledge of
the articles most in request by the natives, and particularly those
kinds which would be the most acceptable to the native chiefs. Every
thing that could be procured for the success, safety, comfort, and
happiness of the adventurous travellers was supplied in the most
bountiful manner, nor should it be omitted to state that an abundance
of trinkets, &c. &c. was shipped for the purpose of conciliating the
good will of the natives. No correct estimate could be formed of the
length of the absence of the expedition, it might, however, be
naturally inferred that it would not be great, as the steamers would
present a facility hitherto unknown in exploring the Afric