as
we had a small stock of ammunition in one of the carts. I had established
our camp to the windward of the burning grass, but I soon discovered that
the progress of the fire was against the wind, especially where the grass
was highest. This may appear strange, but it is easily accounted for. The
extremities of the stalks bending from the wind, are the first to catch
the flame, but as they become successively ignited, the fire runs
directly to the windward, which is toward the lower end of the spikes of
grass, and catching the extremities of other stalks still further in the
direction of the wind, it travels in a similar manner along them. We
managed to extinguish the burning grass before it reached our encampment,
but to prevent the invasion of such a dangerous enemy we took the
precaution, on other occasions, of burning a sufficient space around our
tents in situations where we were exposed to like inconvenience and
danger.

ABORIGINES AND COLONISTS.

December 1, 6 A.M.

The thermometer at 82 degrees. As the party proceeded, the sky became
overcast, and the absence of the sun made the day much more agreeable.
Towards noon we had rain and thunder, and this weather continued until we
reached the banks of the Hunter. We forded the river where the stream was
considerable at the time, and then encamped on the left bank. The draught
animals appeared less fatigued by this journey, than they had been by
that of the former day, owing probably to the refreshing moisture and
cooler air. After the tents had been pitched, a fine invigorating breeze
arose, and the weather cleared up. Segenhoe, the extensive estate of
Potter Macqueen, Esquire was not far distant, and Mr. Sempill the agent,
called at my tent, and afforded me some aid in completing my
arrangements.

I was very anxious to obtain the assistance of an aboriginal guide, but
the natives had almost all disappeared from the valley of the Hunter; and
those who still linger near their ancient haunts, are sometimes met with,
about such large establishments as Segenhoe, where, it may be presumed,
they meet with kind treatment. Their reckless gaiety of manner;
intelligence respecting the country, expressed in a laughable inversion
of slang words; their dexterity, and skill in the use of their weapons;
and above all, their few wants, generally ensure them that look of
welcome,* without which these rovers of the wild will seldom visit a farm
or cattle station. Among those, wh