(Illustration:  Arrival at Culham (Samuel Phillips’s.))

Intimations of intended receptions, by corporations, and addresses to be presented, with invitations to banquets and balls, poured in, in overwhelming numbers; so that on leaving the Monastery I knew the series of ordeals that were in store for me.  His Excellency the Governor, Sir William Robinson, K.C.M.G., most kindly despatched Mr. John Forrest with a carriage to meet us.  From the Monastery our triumphal march began.  The appearance of a camel caravan in any English community, away from camel countries, is likely to awaken the curiosity of every one; but it is quite a matter of doubt whether we, or the camels caused the greater sensation as we advanced.  A few miles from the monastery we passed the station of Messrs. Clunes Brothers, at whose farthest out-station we had first come upon a settlement.  These gentlemen were most kind and hospitable, and would not accept any payment for two fine wether sheep which we had eaten.  A short distance from their residence we passed a district country school-house, presided over by Mr. J.M.  Butler, and that gentleman, on behalf of Messrs. Clunes, the residents of the locality, his scholars, and himself, presented us with a congratulatory address.  Pushing onwards towards the metropolis we arrived, on Saturday, November 13th, at Mr. Samuel Phillips’s station, Culham, where that gentleman invited us to remain during Sunday.  Here, for the first time, we had the pleasure of enjoying the society of ladies, being introduced to Mrs. Phillips, her sister-in-law Mrs. Fane, and their several daughters.  The whole family combined to make us welcome, and as much at home as possible.  Here also Mr. Forrest joined us, and welcomed us to his own native land.  The camels were put into an excellent paddock, and enjoyed themselves almost as much as their masters.  Culham is nine or ten miles from Newcastle, the first town site we should reach.  We were invited thither by the Mayor and Council, or rather the Chairman and Council of the Municipality.

At Newcastle we were received under a triumphal arch, and the Chairman presented us with an address.  We were then conducted to a sumptuous banquet.  Near the conclusion, the Chairman rose to propose our healths, etc.; he then gratified us by speaking disparagingly of us and our journey; he said he didn’t see what we wanted to come over here for, that they had plenty of explorers of their own, etc.  This was something like getting a hostile native’s spear stuck into one’s body, and certainly a fine tonic after the champagne.  Several gentlemen in the hall protested against these remarks.  I made a short reply; Mr. Tietkens put a little humour into his, and all coolness wore away, especially when Tommy made a speech.  He was a great favourite with the “General,” and was well looked after during the repast.  When we had all said our say, Tommy was urged to speak; he was very bashful,