Historial Newspaper Articles

The following transcriptions were provided by Judy Richards [judy.richards-at-westnet.com.au] 13.11.10

COLONIAL Secretary's Office, Sydney, September 27.—His Excellency the Governor directs it to be notified, for the information of all persons interested, that in pursuance of her Majesty's Order in Council, of the 9th March, 1847, the under mentioned persons have demanded leases of the several runs of Crown Land, particularised in connexion with their respective names.

Persons, who object to any of these claims, either wholly or in part, should lodge caveats at this office within two months - from the present date, specifying the lands to which their objections extend, and the grounds on which their objections are based.

It is to be distinctly understood that the Government does not pledge itself to the issue of a lease in any case until due enquiry has been made into the validity of the claim, and whether or not it may be necessary to reserve any portion of the land claimed, for any of the public purposes contemplated in the Order in Council.

No. 1. Antill Henry Colden. Name of run: Tindreys. Estimated area: fifteen thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle, or four thousand sheep. Bounded on the north by the Queanbeyan River; on the west by the County of Murray,; on the south by the Tindrey Mountains; and on the east by Mr. John McGingan's. The run extends about six miles along the Queanbeyan River by about four miles; the County of Murray bounds the Tindrey run on the north and west, the Queanbeyan River dividing the north side of the run from the south side of the County of Murray.

2. Beard and Rolfe. Name of run: Iron Mungy. Estimated area: eighty-four thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle. The general character of the run applied for is plains and forest, adjoining B. Boyd's station on the north; on the east by B. Boyd's ; on the south by part of Dog Kennel run, now in our possession ; on the west by Peters, Boyd, and Captain Gorman, and about twenty- five miles from the Commissioner's residence at Cooma.

3. Beard and Rolfe. Name of run: Dog Kennel. Estimated area: twelve thousand eight hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. It is bounded partly on the north by Iron Mungy run, on the remainder of the north by Benjamin Boyd’s; on the east by Boyd's run; on the south-east by C. Wright's run; on the south by W. Bradley's run; on the south- west by F. Cooper's; and on the west by Boyd's run, and about twenty-five miles south-west of Cooma, the residence of the Commissioner.

4. Boucher John. Name of run: Bukalong, (Mount Piper) Estimated area: fifteen thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand four hundred sheep. Bounded on the north by a timbered range about one mile in length, which divides the watercourses leading into a watercourse which leads towards Gunningrach, or Mrs. T. Hughes' run; on the east by a line of marked trees at a right angle to above range separating Bukalong from Mount Pleasant, or Mr. Garnock's run, about one and a half miles in length, then by the skirt of a forest which abuts upon a plain for about a mile; then by a track for about one and a quarter miles to the top of the range timbered which divides the watercourses leading through Tervine or Walter's and Stewart's run, from those which lead into a watercourse which leads into the Bukalong Creek; then by this range for about four miles which divides the watercourses leading through Cotalmyong or Messrs. Matheson and Co.'s run, as well as those of Tervine from the watercourses leading into the Bukalong Creek; on the south by a water- course leading from the top of the range which forms part of the eastern boundary for about one and a half miles separating Bukalong from Catalmyong, and from Gollicer's plain occupied by Mr. Garnock, till it crosses a track which runs through the centre of the run ; then by another watercourse almost in continuation of the last watercourse leading into Bukalong Creek, and separating Bukalong from Gollicer's plain, in length about half a mile, also by a portion of the Bombola river for about one mile, commencing at the point where the Bukalong Creek joins the said river which separates Bukalong from Bombola or Captain Campbell's run; on the west by an untimbered range which divides the watercourses leading through Guningrach and Cambalong runs, from those which lead into the Bukalong Creek in length about four miles; then by a watercourse about one mile in length and at a right angle to this untimbered range, on its west side leading into a watercourse which leads into the Bombola river, separating Bukalong from Combalong or Mr. B. Boyd's run, the watercourse which leads into the river, being in length about four miles.

5. Barrett William. Name of run: Bollera. Estimated area: six thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred and twenty- five cattle. Bounded on the north by Thomas Bourke's station and the Murrumbidgee River,; on the south by James Shanley's station; on the west by Mount and Cosgrove's station; on the east by Bradley's station and the Murrumbidgee River.

6. Brooks Richard. Name of run: Gejizrick. Estimated area: thirty-eight thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle, ten thousand sheep. Bounded on the east by Abram Brierly's run, called Arable; on the west by T. V. Bloomfield's run, called Coolamatong; on the north by Wallace and Ryrie's run, called Coolringdon, passing along Spring Creek Range ; and on the south by T. V. Bloomfield's run aforesaid, and Abram Brierly's run, called Woolway. N.B.—a detached sheep station called Rocky Plain is included in the above description.

7. Brooks Richards, Name of run: Jindabine. Estimated area: twenty-two thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle. Bounded on the east at Taylor's Range, by E. S. Hall's run, called Cobban,; on the west by a branch of the Snowy River on the north by the Snowy River; and on the south by Pendergast and E. S. Hall's runs.

8. Bloomfield Thomas Valentine. Name of run: Coollamatong. Estimated area: thirty-five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: ten thousand sheep. Bounded on the west by a high range bearing about south five miles to the Snowy River, separating this run from that of Mr. Cassels, on the same side of the Snowy River as far as the Long Point about four miles; on the north by a creek adjoining M. Cassels' run, bearing about north-east, and by a range on the same side separating this from Mr. Brooks' run, about four miles ; on the east by a line by Mr. Brooks' Hill, bearing about south-east to Livingstone's Bald Hill, from thence on the same side by a line bearing about south to, and including the spring at Mick the blacksmith's, from thence by a line bearing about south by west, skirting a marked point of forest, to the Middle creek, from thence by and including Middle creek as far as Dairy creek, from thence a line through a high range bearing about south-east to a marked line bearing about south to a marked tree. The above lines, about eight miles in length, and separating this run from those of Messrs. Brooks and Brierly; on the south by a line bearing about south- west to the Snowy River, at the Long Point, and adjoining the run of Mr. Eccleston, this line about one and a half miles.

9. Badgery Henry. Name of run: McLeay's Flat. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle, three thousand sheep. McLeay's Flat, situate on a branch of the Bumbarla river; bounded on the west by the late J. Martin's run; on the south by William Hibburd's run; on the east by brush and gullies ; on the north by Conland's station.

10. Badgery Henry. Name of run: Dry River. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two hundred cattle, one thousand three hundred sheep. Dry River, bounded on the south by Brogo river; on the west by a range of mountains; on the north by Tarlington run; on the east by the coast range.

11. Bell David. Name of run: Spring Flat. Estimated area: ten thousand two hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred and eighty cattle. Commencing on the river McLaughlin and runs by a marked tree line south-east to the top of the range, thence along the top of the range east to a track running south, dividing from Bowman; thence along the aforesaid track about two hundred yards ; and from thence by a line on the table land, south-west to the head of a gully running into the McLaughlin ; from the head of that gully by a line running north- west to the Green gully; thence by the Green gully into the McLaughlin, from Boyd, and by the McLaughlin from Bowman to the marked tree line first, mentioned. Country —open forest, hilly, whinstone ranges. (To be continued.)

12. Binnie James. Name of run: Burangandra. Estimated area: four miles square. Estimated grazing capabilities: one hundred and eighty-nine cattle, eight horses, and two thousand, four hundred sheep. North by the river Numeralia; west, Thom Grogan creek; south, head of Thom Grogan creek, by Mr. Stanton's Nimity Bell paddock, and Mr. Scott's station to the Punch Bowl creek head; east to the Numeralia river by Punch Bowl creek. I consider, in drooping seasons, the run will keep about three thousand sheep, not exceeding, one large third waste land, covered with rocks, crags, steep banks, and dense scrubs of peppermint ; the other part of the run, in some places, thin stunted pasture soil, sandy loam, forest of scrubby trees, fast good loam, and black soil, good pasture land ; from its great height, climate variable, and great extremes, no dependence on any crops ; iron- stone is in great abundance, granite and mica slate, the height is from four to five thousand feet.

13. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Cudgee. Estimated area: fifty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Cudgee run extends fourteen miles up the Cudgee River, from the hut, and seven miles down the river to the long flat, which divides the boundary between It, Uranbandella station.

14. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Mafra. Estimated area: thirty-five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand sheep. Is bounded on the west, commencing at the range back of Woolshed, by a line running north two miles (leaving the road one hundred yards to the right) dividing Mr. Thomson's cattle station to the Bowbundera Creek; north by the lower Dog Kennel Creek, taking the fall of water into the creek, dividing Mr. Charles Wright's station to a dry creek two hundred yards below Joseph Rolfe's cattle station hut, continuing up the creek, In a southerly direction to a single tree, leaving the square range on the right, to a deep lake, crossing the lake in an easterly direction to the rock flat road ; east, commencing at the road, by a line running south-west three miles, leaving a conical hill on the right hand, to some trees on the road to the McLaughlin River, dividing Sir Joseph Rolfe's station, continuing in west-south-west direction, leaving a timbered range on the right, to Reece's station south ; thence In a straight line to a clump of trees below the old paddock in the direction of the Snowy River, continuing down a dry creek dividing Mr. Timothy Beard's station, to the edge of the forest, skirting the forest in a westerly direction to the Pine Range Creek, following the creek to the Snowy River, continuing up the Snowy River to Canoe Creek; west by the Canoe Creek running in a northerly direction to a black lake dividing Eccleston's station; thence to some scattered gum trees west of Woolway range; thence in a south-easterly direction along the top of the range north of the Pipeclay Creek, dividing Mr. Charles Rootsay's station to the Boobundera Creek, crossing the creek leaving the road to Mafra on the right about a quarter of a mile to the range back of the Woolshed, dividing Mr. Thomson's cattle station. Hill station is bounded on the north by Mr. Pendergrast's station, commencing at Reece's old sheep station hut, by a line running to the edge of tho Black Lake ; thence down the Rocky Waterhole Creek, leaving the rocky range on the left to a cattle down the in an east-south-east direction to the road, dividing Mr. Charles Rootsay's station, down the road to some springs, leaving Mr. Charles Wright's paddock on the right ; thence in a straight line to a conical hill, below the old hill station hut, and continuing up the creek past the old hut in a northerly direction to the timber; thence to Reece's old hut. Bayliss station is bounded on the west by the Snowy River, commencing on the Deep Creek above the old horse paddock, to a range one mile below the lower sheep station hut; north by the Deep Creek, dividing Mr. Timothy Beard's, leaving his sheep station on the left, to some scattered timber on the high plain between Mr. Joseph Peter's station; east from the scattered timber down the Green Lake ; thence along the top of the range in the direction of the lower sheep station to the Snowy River.

15. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Moyallon Downs or Mamjellack. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand two hundred cattle. Moyallon Downs or Mamjellack is bounded on the east by a line north, commencing at a knoll at the junction of Bibbenluke and Garnock's boundary running along a range leaving the fall of water on the east to Bibbenluke, continuing on to the top of Ando height, leaving Jones' station on the east, thence down a spur of the range in a westerly direction, crossing the Native Dog Creek up to a tree branded with a cattle brand Boyd from thence down the creek on the south side of the Telegraph Bill to the highest point of the timbered range, immediately above Jincumbilly stockyards, from thence west to some scrubby gum trees continuing to a dry lake, this forms the boundary between Mr. Cooper's station; west by a line south skirting Burn's lakes to a timbered range south of the road, boundary between Jennong; south by a line east along said range to a single tree on the hill, (back of Wangillock old hut,) passing to the south of a little knell where there is a grave, continuing in a direct line across Mr. Cooper's Creek, then over a range through some white flinty rocks, continuing on to a range north to Waterloo sheep station taking all the fall of water (belonging to Wargillick) continuing to the knoll at the junction of Bibbenluke and Jennong boundary, this last line forms the boundary between Mr. J. T. Hughes's station.

16. Boyd Benjamin. Name of runs: Bibbenluke, &c. Estimated area: seventy six thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two thousand cattle Bibbenluke is bounded on the east by the river five miles to a creek a little above Hawkins' old hut on the opposite side; on the north by the same creek, running over a slack or gap in a direct line to Bommamba creek, and leaving the old dairy on the right hand, following up the leading creek to the little plain (adjoining Jones's run, where there is a marked tree line between the two springs on the little plain, running up to Ando height, on the north-west by Wangellack from the point of the head of the little plain by Jones's boundary) across in a direct line to a little height or knoll on Garnock's boundary, this is the end of Wangellack boundary on the east side, from thence in a south-west direction along the range which takes the fall of water to the river leaving the fall on the opposite side to Garnock's then bearing to the west until it comes to the head of the washing pen creek, leading down the creek until within half a mile of the river, then crossing the point from a marked tree in an easterly direction to the river Boggy creek, north east by the Boggy creek ; north-west the second ranges starting from the creek three-quarters of a-mile below the hut, running up the range between it and little plain, continuing on the top of that range until it comes to the road, following the road to the chain of Ponds creek, then up the creek to the top of (— ?) range, continuing on that range, all the fall of water towards the bog belonging to this station. Bendock - west by the Bendock River south by the Little River. Kirkenoe, north by a creek down close to the hut from Delegate hill to the river, this forms the boundary between Delegate station; west by the Delegate river south, all the fall of water towards the Delegate River.

17. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Suggan Buggun. Estimated area: fifty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle. North-west Omeo ranges; south, Black mountain; east, the ranges towards the Snow mountains.

18). Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Wog-Wog. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. South by a line north-west, commencing at the peak to the McLaughlin run, crossing the run up to the One Tree hill, continuing along the top of the ridge to Sherwin's range; west by a line running north-east four miles along the top of Sherwin's range, taking the fall of water towards the McLaughlin as Wog-Wog run, and the fall of waters towards the Snowy River or Mr. T. Barret's to a spur of the range leading in a southerly direction to the river, crossing the river, continuing up Garland's gully to a marked tree of Mr. Bell's boundary, thence in a south-west direction down a creek to the peak, this forms Mr. Cooper's boundary.

19. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Boco Rock. Estimated area: twenty-five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred cattle. East by a line north, commencing at the market tree of Mr. Bell's boundary to the Green gully, down the Green gully to the McLaughlin River, crossing the river and continuing up the leading ranges to a small creek bearing south-west of Mr. Francis Cooper's station; north down the creek to Boco Creek, crossing Boco Creek continuing up a creek, leaving an old hut on the right to a conical hill on Sherwin's Range; west following on the top of (Sherwin's Range takes all the fall of water of the McLaughlin (run the fall of water on the east side to range belongs to Joseph Rolfe) to a spur dividing Wog Wog station, down the spur in an easterly direction to Garland's Gully, continuing up Garland's Gully to the marked trees of Mr. Bell's boundary.

20. Boyd Benjamin. Name of runs, Cambalong, & c. estimated area: sixty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand two hundred cattle. North by a line east, commencing on small range at the back of Cambalong House, crossing Mount Cooper Creek to a spring, thence along the centre of the high ground between, J. T. Hughe's station on a few scattered trees of Mr. Boucher's boundary, thence east in a southerly direction to a stony creek, following the creek to the bedding ground ; this is the boundary between Mr. Boucher ; south by a line from top of range south of the bedding ground continuing in a straight line bearing west of the Slaughter House Creek ; west, the fall of water into the Slaughter House Creek thence up the creek to the Splitting Gully, from thence in an easterly direction to the range at the back of Cambalong House. Quin Burra-West by the Little River; East Nicholson's Bog, running north and south distance eight miles. Snowy River: - North by Mr A. Brierley's station, commencing from an old sheep station hut of Blackburn, following the creek to Snowy River. West by a timbered range, known as the Merryamble Hill taking half the forest land between Smithall Springs and Mr. Gorman's station; south to a creek, thence in an easterly direction to the Stony Creek, dividing Mr. Joseph Rolf's station, following the creek to the Snowy River east by the Snowy River, extending four miles to Blackburn's Creek.

21. Boyd Benjamin, Name of run: Gennong. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. North by a line running north-east three miles on the top of Sherwin's Range to spur leading in an easterly direction to the One Tree Hill, continuing down to the river, crossing the river in a straight line to the Peak, continuing up the Peak Creek to the dry lake of Warreldick and Mr. Cooper's boundary; south by a line running west to a dry lake near the Combalong road, crossing the road to a high timbered range, thence in a north west direction to the McLachlan River.—this forms the boundary between J. T Hughes's station, crossing the river and continuing up the centre of the Pipeclay Hill, between Joseph Peters boundary to the top of Sherwin's range ; east by a line south three miles, commencing in a dry lake at the junction of Mr Cooper's and Warryellick boundary, continuing along the eastern edge of Buris Lakes to a timbered range south of the road to Warryellick.

22. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Matong. Estimated area: thirty-two thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand sheep. North boundary between Numba run and Mr. Gorman, a line running from a single tree south of the Black Lake in an easterly direction, taking the fall of water towards Matong to the Stoney Creek, thence in a straight line to the Meadow flat, following the Meadow Creek to its junction with the Snowy River; this forms the boundary between Joseph Rolfe: east Snowy River ; south boundary between Amos Coutt's the Long Flat Creek from its Junction with the Snowy River to a timbered range in the Creek of Curlewis's old station to the sheep station creek, from thence in a westerly direction to the Snowy River.

23. Boyd Benjamin. Name of run: Bondi. Estimated area: fifty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six thousand sheep. North by mountain range, dividing Mr. Charles Throsby's run: south by Black Mountain, or Coorambocombala; east, White Rock Mountain, thence to the top of Manguatta Mountain, taking all the fall of water towards the Bondi River ; west Coombaroongar range, running north and south, taking the fall of water eastward to the Bondi River.

24. Burcher Stephen. Name of run: Bridbow. Estimated area: fifteen thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle. Bounded on the west by Mrs. Harnett's run, from west to north by the Bradbow river, which divides it from Mrs. Harnett's run, until it reaches the junction with Coura Creek, which forms the boundary on the east, dividing the run from the station of Mr. Davidson, called Good-good, an imaginary line, running south, then divides the run from Mr. P. Clifford's, on the Eumaralla River, understood to be about six miles from my station or residence, the same line is then continued until it meets Mrs. Harnett's to the westward, there being no geographical features to describe it otherwise on the south -east and south -west forming any division between Mr. Clifford and Mrs. Harnett.

25. Bradley William. Name of run: Dangelong. Estimated area: fifteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. From the peak, at back of George's paddock, the corner of Rock Flat run, to archway trees in Tom Groggin Creek, to Tom Groggin sheep station two miles north-east half north, thence down the Gorge into the Umarella River three-quarters of a mile north-east quarter of a mile north— Dr. Binnie neighbour; from the junction of Tom Groggin Creek with the Umarella River, following the windings of the river to the corner of Moore's boundary six miles and a half-north by west Kelly and Moore neighbours; from Moore's corner pin to top of Baxter's Gully Ranges one mile and a half west, quarter south, thence through, single tree to Bradley's and Moore's dividing gully, on the plain two and a half miles south-west, thence to Rock Flat Creek, one mile west by north half north— Moore, neighbour; from junction of Moore's and Bradley's dividing gully with Rock Flat Creek, up Rock Flat Creek to centre of Long Waterhole quarter of a mile south-south-east- Kirwan neighbour; from centre of Long Waterhole to peak at the back of George's Paddock eight and three quarter miles south-south-east half east down Rock Flat run outside.

26. Bradley William. Name of run: Cooma, &c. Estimated area: nineteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle, four thousand sheep. From Sandy Creek in Cooma Creek to Black Springs, three and a half miles east south-east, thence to within one quarter of a mile of the junction of Cooma, and Rock Flat Heads, three and a half miles south by east-Kirwan, neighbour; from junction of Cooma and Rock Flat Heads to the top of Bald Peak, two miles south by west half west-Rock Flat run the other side ; from top of Bald Peak to head of Sparkes' sheep station creek two miles north- west by west half-west; thence to Sparke's sheep station hut one and a quarter mile north by west ; thence to Cooma Creek, at junction of sheep station half a mile, south-west by west half-west ; thence down Cooma Creek, north-west half west, one quarter of a mile ; thence to the rocks on the upper part of Cooma forest. One mile and three quarters west —Turner neighbour; from the rocks on the upper part of Cooma forest to a marked tree on the edge of Cooma forest, one mile and three quarters, north half east; thence to a clump of trees on Little plain half a mile, north-north-west half a west ; thence to a rock wall in Back creek, half a mile, north-west by north ; thence down Back creek one mile and a quarter, north-east half east-Dawson, neighbour ; from Back creek over Pine range to Sandy creek in Cooma creek, one mile and a half, north-east by east-Kirwan, neighbour. Mettagong or Brigery: being a detached portion of the Cooma run. Junction of Snakes Valley, up the same to the top of Pine range at the back of Kirwan's house, south-east half south, about three miles and a half thence to junction of Deep valley with Kirwan's creek, keeping the Falls to the right, north-east one mile ; thence to Gum-tree creek in Kirwin's creek, one eighth of a mile north-north-west; thence over the range passing over the boundary stone to a boundary bush on Flintstone range, three miles east by south ; thence to a rock on ditto, one quarter of a mile, north by east three quarters east; thence through two trees over Rock Flat Road, to water-course near Black rock, one mile, east three quarters north-Kirwan, neighbour; from watercourse near black rock, down Middle flat to Round Hill, east side of watercourse one mile and a half, north half nei4; thence to a »»bite patch one mile north-west by north; thence being in a line with Harnett's peak, and the top of Wallaby range, to the top of Wallaby range three miles and a half west Harnett, neighbour ; from the top of Wallaby range to the junction of Deep creek, dividing York and Bradley with the Murrumbidgee river, two miles north, west by west three-quarters west -York, neighbour.

27. Bradley William. Name of run: Myalla. Estimated area: forty-two thousand acres, Estimated grazing capabilities: ten thousand sheep. From north Brother to clump of rocks near Dawson's one tree hill, two and a half miles west by north-Dawson, neighbour; from clump of rocks near Dawson's one tree hill to dry lagoon two and three quarter miles south-east by south; thence to east of Bald hill, near the southern Brother, one and a-quarter mile east by south half-south ; thence round the point of an intervening range; up the flats and over the range, to the Mount Pleasant road, three and a quarter miles, south by east ; thence near a dry lake to leaning tree on top of range, near Brierly's hut, one mile, south-west by west three-quarters west; thence to top of Wright's range, keeping the top of the ranges on the right, three miles, south west half south — Brierly, neighbour ; from top of Wright's range down into Mount Pleasant's Creek; thence down the creek to the junction of Mount Pleasant and Myalla Creeks three miles, south- south- west; thence up Myalla Creek to first gully, one quarter of a mile, east by south; thence to rocky point, one quarter of a mile, south by east three-quarters east ; thence to Bald Hill, one quarter of a mile, east; thence to west point of range south of Myalla Creek, one quarter of a mile, north east three-quarters east; thence to east end of same range, one quarter of a mile, east by north; thence to white patch in Sherwin's Creek, half a mile, east half south ; thence to a single tree on dividing range between Wright and McLaughlin’s Flats, one mile and three quarters, south-east half South, Wright, neighbour ; from single ties on dividing range between Wright and McLaughlin’s Flats, marked W B, to upper Dogkennel Creek, opposite Rolfe's sheep station hut, two miles and a quarter south by east half east, extending to the submit of the ranges on the right-Wright or Boyd, neighbour ; from opposite Rolfe's sheep station hut, up Dogkennel Creek, to the head of ditto, at a dry lagoon on McLaughlin’s road, three miles and three quarters, east three-quarters south-Rolfe and Boyd, neighbours; from dry lagoon on McLaughlin road at the head of upper Dogkennel Creek, to Cooper's dry lagoon, two miles; north -north-east-Boyd and Cooper, neighbours ; from Cooper's dry lagoon to gully south east of Bald Hill, one mile and a quarter, north north- west-Cooper, neighbour ; from gully south-east of Bald Hill to two hickory trees, one mile and a quarter, north north-east- Badgery, neighbour ; from two Hickory trees to BY double-forked tree, on the south side of Jenny Brother, two miles and a quarter, north north-west half west-Malady and Badgery, neighbours; from BY forked tree on the south side of Jenny Brother to Peak Gap, one mile and three quarters, north north-east-Malady; neighbour ; from Peak Gap to Hickory, on Table Land Point, two miles, north-north- east ; thence to Crow's-nest tree, near Bald Hill, three miles, north north-west half west-own run both sides; from Crow's nest tree, near Bald Hill, to top of the southern Brother, two miles, west by south three quarters south-Bradley and Turner, neighbours ; from south Brother to north Brother, four miles and a half; north-west half north, keeping the summits of the ranges on the right, and passing over the middle Brother- Turner, neighbour.

28. Bradley William. Name of run: Upper Rock Flat. Estimated area: twenty-five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. From Peak Gap to One Tree Hill, keeping the tops of the ranges about a mile in on the right, four and a quarter miles, east half south-Malady and Badgery, neighbours ; from One Tree Hill to the point of Driscoll's dividing range, one mile, east by south quarter south-Driscoll or Badgery, neighbours; from point of Driscoll's dividing range, at W B tree, to peak at back of George's paddock, three miles, north-east quarter north— Driscoll, neighbour ; from peak at back of George's paddock to centre of Rock Hut long water- hole, eight and three quarter miles, north-north west half west-own run (Dangelong) the other side; from centre of Rock Flat long waterhole to Rock Flat road, near its junction with the Cooma road, one and a half mile, south-west by west ; thence to junction of Cooma and Rock Flat roads one-eighth of a mile, north by west quarter west-Kirwan, neighbour; from Junction of Cooma and Rock Flat roads to top of Bald Peak, two miles south by west half west-own run the other side; from Bald Peak to Crow's nest tree, keeping the Falls on the right two and a half miles, south south- west Turner, neighbour; from Crow's nest tree to hickory tree on Table Land Point, three miles, south south-east; thence to Peak Gap, two miles, south south- west—-own Myalla run outside.

29. Bradley William. Name of run: Lower Rock Flat. Estimated area: two thousand two hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities; four hundred sheep. From the rock on Rock Flat, one mile in every direction. N B— this was originally sold for the use of an Inn; the Inn is now down, and the land again added to the Rock Flat run, to which it originally belonged.

30. Brierly Abram. Name of run: Arable. Estimated area: thirty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand cattle, eight thousand sheep. Bounded on the north by a creek; on the south side of the Brothers which divides this run from Bradley's run. Myalla, and by Dawson's run, Jillamatong; on the west by Wallace and Ryrie's run, Coolringdong; on the south by Brooks's run, Jezigrich, and my own run, Woolway; and on the east by Bradleys run at Mount Pleasant Creek, and by Prendergast's run, Cottage Creek

31. Brierly Abram. Name of run: Murraumbla. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: fifteen hundred cattle. Bounded on the north by the Snowy River, on the south by the Saw Pit Range, on the east by Gorman's run, Mumbla, at Gallow's Creek and by Boyd's run along the road commencing at Mickey's crossing place to an old sheep hut, and from thence to the top of Lanking's Range, following the range till we join Gorman's run; and on the west by Keirle's run called Boloco.

32. Brierly Abram. Name of run: Woolway. Estimated area: twelve thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities three hundred cattle, three thousand sheep. Bounded on the north by a creek and range which divides this run from Pendergast's run, called Cottage Creek, and by my own run called Arable; on the west by the said Arable run, and by Bloomfield's run called Collermatong, on the south by the said Collermatong run; and on the east by the Woolway Range.

33. Brown George, Name of run: Kydra (Green Gully) Estimated area: twenty six thousand eight hundred and eighty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by the station of Charles Throsby Esq., divided by the Kybean River; this line runs about south from the Yumanalla Ranges to the Gap Ranges, say about seven miles ; on the south by the Gap Ranges, Clifford's Creek station, which is divided by Baidpoint Creek, and also bounded by other land; this line runs about west from the Gap Ranges to the head of the Green Gully, say about six miles; on the west by Scott's station, divided by Punchbowl Creek, running about north from the head of the Green Gully, to the conjunction of the Punchbowl Creek with Cooper's Creek for about seven miles; on the north by Doctor Binnie's station divided by Cooper's Creek, running about east from the conjunction of the Punchbowl Creek to the Kydra River for about two miles and by a line from the Kydra River to the Kybean River, for about four miles, bounded by the Youmaralla Ranges.

34. Bull Joseph. Name of run: Anembo, Upper Jingeree. Estimated area: five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two hundred cattle, five thousand sheep. Granite soil, partly scrubby mountainous and unavailable, the remainder forest land, watered by the bend of the Queanbeyan River and springs, and part of the Ningaabella River ; bounded on the east by the Bellallalby Mountains ; north-east by James Sherlock's station, and John Hunt ; north by John McGuigan ; west by Mr. Glass ; south-west by William Cooper.

33. Bowman William, per J. Bowman. Name of run: Mohawk. Estimated area: four thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle, two thousand sheep. Bounded on the westerly side by the Native Dog Creek, which separates it from Dr. Robertson's run ; northerly by the Poor Man's Corner Creek, separating the run from McDonald and Thornton's runs ; easterly by Mickey Heroun's Creek, separating it from Bell's run ; south by McDonald’s Creek, separating it from McDonald’s run— all said four creeks empty themselves into the McLaughlin River, (which crosses this run from east to west) dividing it into two parts.

36. Campbell Robert, estate of, now A. Jeffrey’s. Name of run: Mount Cooper. Estimated area: twenty one thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven thousand sheep. Take departure from Mount Cooper north nest about three miles in a direct line to a tree marked D on Bryant's Range, passing Bryant's old hut, follow down a creek running west by south and gradually veering round west south-west for three quarters of a mile, creek then bends away south-west by south two and a half miles to the foot of Sherdan's Peak; from Sherdan's Peak follow a creek which winds away south-east by east and east-south-east about two miles to some table land, then crossing the most eastern of Burn's Lakes, ascend a dividing range, and having crossed it at a point marked by some stones and old sticks, descend about south-east by east and follow the dry bed of a creek which leads down to a chain of ponds, then following a cattle track bend away round the south-east side of Telegraph Hill (bearing from Mount Cooper south-cast about two and a quarter miles) ; follow on the range for about half a mile to where a cattle track makes a sudden descent to the Native Dog Flat-this point is the boundary between Boyd and Rankin (as far as this point from marked tree on Bryant's Range, Mr. Boyd forms boundary) ; follow round dividing range of Native Dog flat, which runs in a north north- easterly direction until it is intersected by a deep creek, which forms the boundary between Rankin and Hosking; follow down another creek into the River McLachlan, follow the windings of the river to the westward (Brown occupies northern side) until a point is reached from which a line of marked trees running north and south will reach the top of a low range, then turning about south-west will lead into the high road at a point where stands a tree marked I H; from marked tree follow on about west by north one and a-half miles to a creek which springs from top of some table land and runs north and south into the McLaughlin river (from the marked tree on McLaughlin river to this creek, Dr. Robertson forms boundary) ; follow round the ridge, which assumes the form of a horse shoe, about quarter of a mile, which will lead to another creek running about east and west into the McLachlan river-between these two last mentioned creeks Bowman forms boundary ; from the last-mentioned creek follow in the direction about west-south-west for two miles to Mickey Herring's Peak, rounding which, an the north west side, follow a south-west direction about one and a-half miles to the marked tree on Bryant's range, from whence this description commences; from the last, named creek to tree on Bryant's range. Bell forms boundary. N B. — this run has been transferred with the sanction of the Government, to Arthur Jeffreys, in whose name the lease will accordingly be prepared.

37. Campbell Robert, estate of, now S. J. Campbell. Name of run: Deligate. Estimated area: thirty-eight thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand four hundred cattle, or ten thousand sheep. The portion of the run extending to the westward for a distance of about seven miles with a frontage of the Deligate River, bounded on the west by the creek passing Mr. Boyd's (cattle station, hut known as Kirkanong) and bounds to the south- ward the station next described. The portion of the run to the southward and south-west extends to the bottom of Deligate hill on the eastward side, and on the westward side to the Bendock River at the bottom of the hill, this said portion of the run has a frontage of a creek named the Boggy Creek, about six miles long, and is bounded on the west by scrubby ranges ; and on the east by Mr. Simpson's run, boundary line about half a mile from his hut, commencing from the Boggy Creek, and running in a direct line to the bottom of Deligate hill on the eastward side, and bounded on the southward by Deligate hill and Bendock River. The portion of the run extends to the top of a high range about six miles off which runs nearly north and south, bounded on the top (on the eastward side) by Messrs. Nicholson and Lawson, bounded on the south side by Messrs. Hensleigh and Simpson, by marked tree lines from the top of the high range to the Boggy Creek within half a mile on the north side of Mr. Simpson's hut, bounded on the north-east side by Mr. Marsden's boundary line marked trees from the top of the range joining Mr, Nicholson to the deep creek entering the Deligate River, this said portion has a frontage of four and half miles of the Deligate River. The portion of the run towards the north has a frontage of seven miles of the Deligate River, and bounded on the north-east side by Mr. Matheson's run, boundary line a deep creek (from the top of a high range running nearly east and west) to the Deligate River, about two miles from the sheep station hut, bounded on the north by Mr. Wittaker's run, boundary line, the top of the Tong Bong ranges, bounded on the westward side by Mr. Alexander Ross's boundary line where two creeks join about half a mile above the sheep station hut on the Corrowaong Road, and extends along the right hand creek to the first gully branching off to the Tong Bong ranges, and to the south-west from the junction of the two creeks along the west side of the big round hill to the lagoon on the Deligate River. N B. — this run has been transferred, with the sanction of the Government, to Miss S. J. Campbell, in whose name the lease will accordingly be prepared.

38. Crisp Amos, junior. Name of run: Jimen Buen. Estimated area: thirty thousand seven hundred acres, Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand five hundred cattle. Jimen Buen is a plain surrounded by a forest, is hilly, of a sandy nature, bounded on the north by Boyd; on the east, south, and west by the Snowy River.

39. Clifford Patrick. Name of run: Nudrum Nadran or Rose Valley. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred cattle, or five thousand sheep. Bounded on the east by D. Lucy, Numeralla river, by a line bearing from Moran's grave to the south-east point of black range ; on the south by Mr. L. Harnett, Rosebrook, by a line west from the black range over the top of bald hill to the top of Dr. Reid's peak, thence by a line over the top of Button's gap to the Numerulla river, thence along the river to York's waterhole; on the west by Mr. Cosgrove's station, Bellylingra, by a line from York's waterhole along the top of the bald ridge to the ¡unction of the Bredbo road and the dry creek, thence along the road to the top of the bald hill leading to Bredbo river ; on the northwest by Mr. Burcham, Bredbo, by a line from the last named bald hill to Macknally's old sawpit, thence north-east to Macknally's flats ; on the north by Thomas Kelly, Cowra, from thence by a line bearing due east by the creek at the back of George King's hut to the Numeralla river.

40. Clifford Patrick. Name of run: Greenland. Estimated area: fifteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Bounded on, the east by the Nimithybell mountain; on the south and south-west by Gilbert Warren's station, thence south-west by the river to Mr. Joseph Ward's paddock fence; on the north-west by Joseph Ward's station; and on the north by Mr. Throsby's station known as Kyebeyan.

41. Campbell Ronald. Name of run: Bombalo. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle, seven thousand sheep. Divided from Cambalon, Mr. B. Boyd's station; on the north by a creek called the Needles, running east and west, divided from Maharratta (Mr. Throsby's station) ; on the south-east by a lagoon and gully running east to the Bombalo River, and west to a deep gully, which divides it from Lewes, W. Matheson's station on the west; on the south divided from Lewes; by the Deligate road running north and south to a range which divides it from the Little Plain run, belonging to Mr. J. Nicholson, divided on the west from Tombong, Mr. W. Whittaker's station by a deep gully running north and south to the Deligate River.

42. Coghill John. Name of run: Jinden. Estimated area: fifteen thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Commencing at the junction of a blind creek, called the Waddie Creek, with the Jinden or Tabbut Creek, bearing south-east; thence by a line also running south- east to the foot of the Eurambine Mountain, this line divides it from the Wamba Guggarum in the occupation of Hugh Gorden, Esq., on the south-west by part of the Eurambine Mountain, and the Big Badga Mountain, and on the north-west by the Jinden or Talbut Creek aforesaid.

43. Crooke Edward. Name of run: Hinno Mongy. Estimated area: thirty-six thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two thousand cattle or twelve thousand sheep, Situated on the Mitta Mitta, one and quarter miles below the junction of the Livingstone or Little River, extending in a southerly direction from Mr. McFarlane’s watering place on the Mitta Mitta, about two miles below this place for about seventeen miles up the Livingstone, and comprising all pasturing ground thereon; bounded on the north by Mr. McFarlane’s watering creek, on the Mitta Mitta, which is common to both runs; and thence by a line extending across the river to the ranges, length about one and a quarter miles, direction east and west; on the south by the head of the Livingstone and by the termination of the available country; on the east by Mr. McFarlane’s runs, north-east by Omio Plains ; south-east by Thun. E. O. Mongy, the north-east boundary being the watershed from Omio Plains (extending from the head of Mr. M'Farlane's watering creek on the Mitta Mitta, to the fall of Water into the Reedy Creek); southerly two and a half miles, then along the watershed (from Omio Plains) into the said creek to the ranges dividing the Gipps Land water from that of Omio; easterly five and a half miles, (the water of Reedy Creek is common to both runs); the south-east boundary is the ranges forming the watershed between the Tunbo and Livingstone, southerly fifteen and a half miles; on the west by part of the lower ranges of the Snowy Mountains and extending in a southerly direction from a line drawn across the Mitta Mitta, at Mr. McFarlane’s watering-place, and crossing the Mitta Mitta about one mile above the large flat at the dry Spring Creek, and extending up it to Livingstone Ranges, and by said ranges to the head of Livingstone river, about nineteen miles southerly, have no information of the country to the westward being occupied on this side the mountains.

44. Cosgrove John. Name of run: Queeingallery. Estimated area: twenty-five thousand six hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand sheep. Bounded on the north by Jame Shanley and Barratt and Mort; on the west by Cosgrove's and York’s; on the south by the Fryingpan Creek, which partly divides Driscolls and Graham, and on the remainder of this line by a main range which divides Graham's; on the east by Mr. Graham's run, which crosses the Dry Plains, going to the east of the Long Lake.

45. Cassels David (now David and Robert Cassels). Name of run: Island Lake. Estimated area: nine thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two thousand sheep. Commencing at a point on the plain at the north-east corner of the Cootalandra, Mr. Ryrie's run, and running up a ridge, and in a north, west direction to the head of Rats Castle Creek, distance about four miles, bounded by Cootalandra ; then in a straight line in a north-north-west direction to the head of the Waterfall Creek about two miles, bounded by Midaling Bank, Mr. Neal's run, then in a straight line in a north-east direction to the public road a mile and a half, bounded by Dry plains, Mr. Graham's run, then along said road three miles to a fixed point near the branching of it to Wambrook and Island Lake, then along a ridge to the Waterfall creek, then along another ridge in the same line to a fixed point on the Cooleringdong boundary, distance about two miles and a half, bounded by Mr. Frerick, of Wambrook run, then from the point on the top of the ridge in a south-west direction to the first mentioned starting point, distance about two miles and a half, bounded by the Cooleringdong run, belonging to Wallace and Ryrie. N.B— this run has been transferred, with the sanction of the Government, to David and Robert Cassels, in whose names the lease will accordingly be prepared.

46. Cassels David (now D. and R. Cassels). Name of run: Carrott. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. Commencing at the highest point of the public road crossing Varney range, along the top of that range in a southerly direction to Varney creek about a mile, then along a range in a south-west direction about seven miles to the Snowy River, bounded by Mr. Bloomfields; then up the river about two miles to the Devil's hole creek, then about three miles up said creek, then in north-west direction about a mile and a half to the top of a range about a mile in a westerly direction from the head of said creek, bounded by Mr. Ryrie and Mr. Gore, then about four and a half miles northerly, crossing the lower end of the Little Dry Plain, across the point of a ridge, and through the Stony Creek on to a ridge, then across the public road and along higher ridge to the north-east corner of Mr. Gore's run, of Taylor's Flat, then about one and a half miles in a north-east direction, bounded by Mr. Thomson, to Varney's range, then about three miles in an easterly direction along the top of said range to the first mentioned starting point, bounded by Mr. Brooks. N.B. — this run has been transferred, with the sanction of the Government, to David and Robert Cassels, in whose names the lease will accordingly be prepared.

47. Cosgrove and York. Name of run: Billy Lingera. Estimated area: sixteen thousand six hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. Bounded on the west by the Murrumbidgee River; on the south by the Numeralla River; on the east by a black range; on the north by the Braidbo River. The high road runs through to Boyd Town from Sydney.

48. Cosgrove and York. Name of run, Adamindumee: Estimated area sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle. Bounded on the north by a scrubby range, dividing it from Mowatt's run, at the north side of the Long Plain, and by that range westerly to the Snowy River; on the west by the Snowy River; on the east by Cosgrove's run called Queengallery and Mowatt's run; and on the south by a line easterly running over the Bald Hill to Queengallery run, which divides it from Daniel Driscoll's run.

49. Curtis Peter. Name of run: Rock Forest Estimated area: five thousand five hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. Bounded on the west by the Little Snowy River in an irregular line of about three miles long, ascending towards the Snowy Mountains on the north; on the north by the Mungar Ranges for about three miles, which separates this run from Mangar Plain and Eccles run; on the east, extending one mile and a half along a small range unnamed, which separates this run from Mr. Mowitt's run; on the south extending three miles along a range unnamed, which separates this run from York's run.

50. Davison Simpson. Name of run: Goodgood. Estimated area: fifteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. This run is bounded on the north by a creek known as, Hurdle Flat Creek as far as a road leading from Mr. Cutmore's to Mr. Glass's, thence by the said road— this boundary is about five miles ; neighbouring occupier John Cutmore; on the east a very high range of mountains dividing it from the run of Thomas Kelly extending about five miles; on the south a high range on the south of Cowrah Creek, dividing it from the run of Stephen Burcher about five miles; on the west a road from Jingerry as far as two large waterholes, thence by high mountains to the confluence of the Bredbo River and Cowra Creek, together about six miles; neighbouring occupier William Glass.

51. Driscoll Daniel. Name of run: Ucumbean. Estimated area: two thousand eight hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities are hundred cattle. A plain, and forest scrubby hills; on the north by Mowat deceased; on the east by William Graham, Esq.; on the south by Ryan and Kennedy; on the west by the Snowy River.

52. Dawson Robert, junior. Name of run: Gellimatong. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: nine hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by Mr. Bradley's run; on the west by Mr. Ryrie's run; on the north by Mr. Kerwan's run; and on the south by Messrs. Bradley and Brierly's runs. Part open forest and part plains, with sandstone and whinstone ranges; badly watered.

53. Ecclestone John. Name of run: Doodle. Estimated area: ten thousand two hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred and ten cattle. Bounded on the east by Mr. Boyd four miles; north by Brierly four miles; west by Bloomfield four miles; south Snowy River four miles.

54. Eccles Thomas. Name of run: Bulgar Creek. Estimated area: ten thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle. The run called Bulgar Creek is bounded on the north-east by the River Murrumbidgee; on the south-west by a creek flowing into the Murrumbidgee; on the north-nest by Nungai Plains; and on the south-east by a creek flowing into Atkinson's Morass.

55. Frericks Burchard. Name of run: Wambrook. Estimated area: fifteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred and twenty cattle, and two thousand sheep. Divided from Messrs. Wallace and Ryrie's, and Mr. D. Cassels' runs; on the south by the road from Cooma Forest to the waterholes in Slack's Plains; thence in a strait line to the southern edge of Bowler's Range, and on to the top of Coobrlngdon hill, thence keeping the top of the range past Mr. Cassels till it meets the road to the Dry plains, and following that road to the Sawpit Gully, ten miles ; on the west from Mr. Graham's run by a line from the Sawpit Gully to the highest peak of the Sawpit Gully Range ; one mile in the marsh from Mr. Graham's and Messrs. Wallace and Ryrie's runs, by a straght line from the highest peak of the Sawpit Gully Range, to the top of the peak hill, thence by the foot of the Spring Plain to Slack's Creek ten miles; on the east from Mr. Kirwan's run by the top of the range on the eastern side of Slack's Creek on to the Cooma road three and a-half miles.

56. Flinn Jeremiah (now J. Kirwan) Name of run: Numeralla. Estimated area: two thousand one hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one hundred and sixty-three cattle. Bounded north- west by ranges which separate it from W. Goodwin's run; south-west by the Numeralla River, which separates it from Daniel Lucy's run; on the north-east by ranges which separates it from Walter Pepper's run ; on the south by the Numeralla River which separates it from White's run; on the east by ranges which separate it from Countigaing. N.B. — this run has been transferred, with the sanction of the Government, to James Kirwan, in whose name the lease will accordingly be prepared.

57. Flinn Jeremiah. Name, of run: Countigang. Estimated area: three thousand two hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one hundred and sixty seven cattle, seven hundred and nine sheep. On the west by a line bearing north-east four miles along the Little River, which separates it from Jeremiah Flinn's station on the Numeralla; thence by a line bearing south to north six miles which separates it from Terence Mahoney's run; on the south by a line bearing north east by north-west six miles, running along a bridle road, which separates it from James Kirwin's station; on the east by a line bearing north-east four miles along a tier of ranges occupied. This run is of a broken hilly description not admitting definite boundary lines.

58. Garnock George. Name of run: Mount Pleasant. Estimated area: six thousand five hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle, four thousand sheep. Bounded by Messrs. Walters and Stewart, by an old road towards the south with a right to the water in the creek, and also by Mr. Boucher on the road towards the Little Plains, and thence by the extremity of the forest towards the west with marked trees towards Mrs. Hughes' old sheep hut, this line three miles long, from Mrs. Hughes' old hut in the creek towards the east one quarter of a mile long, and thence by a line towards the north to Waterloo springs a mile long, bounded by Mr. Boyd from the old road towards the south in the creek, from hence towards the east to the fall of the ground above Thurry old sheep hut, from hence keeping as the line the fall of the ground towards Pickery Pick springs towards the north, from hence north east to the tall of the ground, and hence keeping the fall of the ground down to Waterloo springs, this boundary line is four miles long ; bounded by Mr. Boucher, from Bumbarly River by a creek towards the north, from hence up to the middle of Gallear's Plain, from hence up a dry creek through the middle of the plain to the forest, this line is two and a-half miles long, from hence Mr, Matthewson's boundary down the side of the forest to the Bumbarly River one and a half mile long, from thence down the river one mile long to Boucher's boundary.

59. Gore John. Name of run: Geekle. Estimated area: five thousand one hundred and twenty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred cattle. On the north west by a line running nearly north -east and south-west of about three and a half miles between Geekle and Mr. Stewart Ryrie's run: on all the other sides by a line of about nine miles, keeping along the top of the ranges between this run and the adjoining runs of Mr. Cassels and Thompson, including all the fall of ground towards the Geekle and Meadow Creeks, excepting a flat, commonly called the Dry Plain, belonging to Mr. Cassell's run.

60. Gow Alexander. Name of run: Wallandilby. Estimated area: thirty-one thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred and sixty cattle, five thousand sheep. Bounded on the west by the range on the west side of Caruwang Creek; on the south by a chain of ranges called the Dingaringa mountains, on the west by a line marked between Patrick McGuigan's run and this run, and on the north by the Barren Ranges on the left bank of the Snowy River.

61. Gordon Hugh. Name of run: Wambaguga. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle. Wambaguga is bounded on the west by the Big Badga Creek and Bombala Hill (the Big Badga Creek divides the Wambaguga run from that of John Coghill, Esq.), on the north by part of the counties Murray and St. Vincent; and on the east and south by the range of hills commonly called the Sea Coast Range.

62. Goodwin William. Name of run: Windy Corner. Estimated area: six thousand acre. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. High stony ranges; watered by Numeralla River and Badga River and spring of Cowra Creek; bounded by the lands of W. Peppard, Big Badger on the east; on the west by Numeralla River; on the north by the lands of Kelly and Cowra Creek, and part by ranges of the lands held by Cliffford; and on the south by Badger River.

63. Harnett Patrick, estate of. Name of run, Bredbow. Estimated area: thirty thousand seven hundred and twenty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two hundred and fifty cattle, and seven thousand five hundred sheep. Bounded on the north by Collyer’s Creek being the southern boundary of Captain Rossi's run; on the south by the Breadbow River being the northern boundary of Messrs. Cosgrove and York's run; on the east by the western boundary of Mr. Burcher's run, and by unlocated land; and on the west by the Murrumbidgee River. The distance from the north to the south boundary is estimated at about six miles; and from the eastern to the western boundary at about eight miles.

64. Harnett Lawrence. Name of run: Rosebrook. Estimated area: fifteen thousand three hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one hundred and fifty cattle, four thousand five hundred sheep. Bounded on the north by the Numeralla rivulet and a dividing range, being the southern boundary of P. Clifford's station, Rose Valley; on the south and in part west by a fixed and determined line, being the northern and in part western boundary of Mr. William Bradley's station, Bingera, and by a fixed line, being the northern boundary in part by James Kirwan's station, Cooma: on the east by a dividing range and a marked tree, being the western boundary of J. J. Moore's station, Umeralla; and on the west by a dividing range, being the eastern boundary of Henry York's station Billy Rumpete. The distance from the northern to the southern boundary is estimated at about eight miles, and from the eastern to the western boundary about three miles.

65. Hibburd William. Name of run: Bibbinluke. Estimated area: twenty five thousand six hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred cattle. On the north by the Sugar Loaf Hill at the foot of the Maneroo Mountain; on the east by Boggy Creek near Yuckiama: on the south by a creek called the Reedy Creek; on the west by a range of mountains. This run is situated between the mountains leading from Maneroo to Twofold Bay, commencing about three miles from the foot of the Maneroo Mountain; the occupants of the adjacent lands are William Walker, Esq., and Henry Badgery, Esq.

66. Hibburd William. Name of run, Archer's Flat. Estimated area: eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. On the east by a scrubby range adjoining Martin's run, on the north by a dry lake and a black lake adjoining T. M. Moore ; on the west from the black lake down Garrety's Creek to the back river adjoining the said T. M. Moore; on the south by a scrubby range adjoining G. F. Pickering.

67. Hensleigh J, S. Name of run, Bendock. Estimated area: two thousand five hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: two hundred cattle, one thousand sheep. Bendock is bounded on the east by a main range which runs nearly north and south from the Bendock River to the little plain which divides Mr. Charles Lawson and myself; on the west by Deligate mountains; on the north by a marked boundary between the late R. Campbell, Esq., and myself, but now the property of Miss Sarah Campbell; on the south by the Bendock River, dividing B, Boyd Esq., and myself. The length from east to west is three miles, varying in width from one mile to half a mile.

68. Haslingden Edward. Name of run: Big Badger. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Situate on the eastern bank of the Big Badger river, commencing at a creek emptying into that river, called Boggy Plain creek; proceeding up the river to a point where it divides into two streams; up the western stream or creek skirting a swamp known as Peppard's Swamp, to its course in the Big Badger mountain; from the source at this creek, crossing the mountain road, by a line bearing east to a creek called Wowley creek ; crossing that creek, and proceeding down its southern bank to the eastern base of the coast ranges, adjoining Wallace's station, Bulorory, to a river known as Toole's river ; up this river's northern bank to a line bearing north to the source of the Boggy Plain creek; down that creek to the Big Badger river.

69. Howdon John. Name of run: Boatalley. Estimated area: thirty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle, one thousand sheep. Bounded on the east by Kila Lake, and the reserve of three miles from the sea; and on the north by the same; on the west by Boatalley mountains; and on the south by the Wagonga river.

70. Holland William. Name of run: Mowenbah. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle, two thousand sheep. Bounded on the east by the Snowy river, which separates it from Bloomfield station; north by the Mowenbar river, which separates it from Hall's run; west by Pendergast's station; on the south by Guises's ranges which separate it from McGuigan and Keirle's runs; running about five miles each way.

71. Hosking John. Name of run: Glenbog. Estimated area: thirty-two thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred cattle. Near Mount Cooper partly bounded by stations of Campbell and Scott; other boundaries not known, being undefined.

72. Imlay George (per P. Imlay). Name of run: Bega. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle, four thousand sheep. Rounded on the north and east by Mumbla range; on the south by Bega river and Grossis creek, being the boundary lines with the Warragubra and Brichago stations occupied by William and James Walker; and on the west by a swamp running parallel to the east side of the Numbugga swamps and nearly joining the Double creek.

73. Imlay Peter. Name of run: Cobargo. Estimated area: six thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred cattle, two thousand sheep. Bounded on the east and north by Tarlington's station, called Narwira and on the south and west by his station called Braidbatoura.

74. Imlay Peter. Name of run: Murrah. Estimated area: one thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by the scrubby lands adjoining the coast; on the north by Mr. Tarlington's station, called Barmagai; on the west and south by the coast range.

75. Imlay Peter. Name of run: Double Creek. Estimated area: ten thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred and twenty cattle, two thousand sheep. Bounded on the south by the Double Creek; on the east by the Brogo River; on the north and west by Mr. Polack's station and the Numbugga ranges.

76. Jones Thomas, estate of (per K. Robertson), Name of run: Juttabah. Estimated area: two thousand five hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand five hundred sheep. Open forest, commencing on the river MacLaughlan at a creek running south-south-east from Bowman to the top of the range; thence by a marked tree line south south east, east, east-north-east, and north, to a deep creek ; thence by a track to the McLaughlan from Jeffrey's; thence by the McLaughlan to the first mentioned creek from Thornton.

77. Kirwan James. Name of run: Cooma. Estimated area: thirty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle, four thousand sheep. Commencing at the junction of a sandy creek with Cooma Creek, about one and a half miles above Commissioner of Crown Lands' establishment, and bearing about north eighty-five degrees east for about half a mile; thence along rocky ridges and a crooked creek in a gully on the general bearing of north forty degrees east to the junction of said creek with Cooma back Creek at road between Cooma and Rock Flat; thence up Cooma back creek about half a mile to some springs, thence in a straight line on a bearing of about south seventy-five degrees east to head of the springs at road between Bingara and Rock Flat ; thence along road to Rock Flat, which road is one general bearing of south ten degrees east to about a quarter of a mile nearer the Rock Flat that the junction of the Cooma road with the Rock Flat road; thence about north fifty five east, passing over a remarkable rocky peak to the centre of a large waterhole at Rock Flat Creek, thence down Rock Flat Creek about a mile and a half, thence about north seventy-five west to Bingam and Rock Pint Road aforesaid, which it meets at about three-eighths of a mile nearer Bingara than the springs aforesaid, thence along the said road towards Bingara, bearing about north nineteen west about four miles, where the boundary is in dispute with Mr. Bradley, thence say south seventy west about one mile to head of a remarkable gully, thence about north eighty west crossing road between Cooma and Bingara aforesaid ; soon afterwards crossing rugged ridges to Cooma Creek, thence in a line north-west by north direction through A broken country to the Murrumbidgee River, a portion of land of this part of the boundary of the run being in dispute with Mr. Bradley ; thence up the Murrumbidgee River to Slack's Creek: thence up Black's Creek about two and a quarter miles, taken in a straight line, to a remarkable head of said creek, near a sheep station hut; thence east a quarter of a mile ; thence about south ten east, crossing road between Cooma and Wanbrook to a flat at road between Cooma and Coolingdon; thence in a zig-zag direction over ridges and up and down gullies in a general bearing of about south seventy-five east to a flat at Cooma Creek; thence down Cooma Creek to the junction of Sandy Creek aforesaid. The adjacent lands to this run are occupied thus-on the north by William Bradley; on the east by Lawrence Harnett and J. J. Moore; on the south by William Bradley and Robert Dawson, and Messrs. Wallace and Ryrie; on the west by Burchard Frericks. In this run are included the establishment and paddocks of the Commissioner of Crown lands.

78. Kirwan James. Name of run: Countigeny. Estimated area: twenty thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. This run is partly surrounded by broken ranges and a creek; the adjacent lands are occupied-on the north by Jeremiah Flynn: on the east by unoccupied and barren ridges on the south-east by John Green; on the south by Charles Throsby; and on the west by Umaralla ranges, and Jeremiah Flynn. This is such a broken country that the bearings and distance could not be ascertained.

79. Kirwin and Clifford. Name of run: Wadbillaga. Estimated area: ten thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle. This run is in the heart of rugged barren ranges, and is itself of a very broken character; the occupants on the adjacent lands, on the north by Hugh Wallace; north-north-east Henry George Scutoff; south and east is an unoccupied barren country, on the west by west-north-west boundary of county of Auckland.

80. Keirle James. Name of run: Boloco Creek. Estimated area: thirteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by range terminating on the Snowy river, and dividing this run from A. Brierley's run on the west by Guise's range separating this run from R. Holland's run; on the north by the Snowy River opposite J. W. Bloomfield’s; on the south by a creek called the Upper Sheep station Creek which separates this run from John M'Guigan's, and which boundary is In dispute between the first John M'Guigan and myself. This run proceeded from south to west seven miles and from east to west three miles.

81, Kelly Thomas. Name of run: Coura. Estimated area: thirteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred cattle, seven hundred sheep. Bounded on the east by a leading range and Mr. W. Pepper on the west by Good-good; occupied by Mr. S. Davidson; on the north partly by Bredbo River, and Mr. William Cooper's run, and on the south by Mr. P. Clifford to Coura Creek.

82. Kennedy William Francis. Name of run: Biggam. Estimated area: fourteen thousand fire hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle, or five thousand sheep. Bounded on the north- west by a range dividing it from Mr. York's and the Snowy River; the run extends about four miles along the Snowy River by about four and a half; on the east It is divided, from Maurice Lawlee for about one and a half miles; and on the south and west from Mr. Brook's by about three miles.

83. Lawson Charles. Name of run: Craigie. Estimated area: twenty four square miles. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by the Little Plains river, and Mr. Boyd's station; on the south by the river on the west by a leading range betwixt Mr. Hensleigh's and Mr. Campbell's runs; and on the north by a creek to Mr. Nicholson's.

84. Lawton Charles. Name of run: Gingallila. Estimated area, twenty-five square miles. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle. Bounded on the west by a river to Mr. Thomas Moore's station,; on the east by a range to Mr. McLaughlan’s station; on the north by broken ranges; and on the south by a swamp.

85. Lucy Daniel. Name of run: Umeralla. Estimated area: eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capa bilities: three hundred cattle, one thousand six hundred sheep. Fronted towards the east by the Umeralla creek, which separates it from John White's run; on the back by the fall from the Bush station hills which separates it from the runs of L. Harnett, Esq. ; northerly divided by J. J. Moore's run, between and which the only definite boundary is a tree in the middle of the Umeralla flat, part of which belongs to this run, and the other part by J. J. Moore's run; southerly by the Gingalee creek, which separates it from Mr. P. Clifford's run, running about four miles along the Umeralla creek, and three miles backward.

86. Langhorn John. Name of run: Junction. Estimated area: four thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. Thickly timbered, hilly, and of indifferent quality; bounded on the east by Mr. Boyd's Cambalong run at the part called Slaughter house Creek; on the north by the McLaughlin River; and on the west by the Snowy River; and on the south by the Bombalo or Deligate Rivers (below their junction.)

87. Lunn Daniel. Name of run: Pawpang. Estimated area: eleven thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle. Running from the head of a Creek called Stoney Creek, which empties itself into the Snowy River seven miles from the source; bounded on the right by John M'Guigan's run, and on the left by Captain O'Gorman's run, being two and a half miles in breadth and seven miles in length.

89. Moore Joshua John. Name of run: Numarella. Estimated area: eighteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand sheep. Open forest limestone ranges, In parts watered by the Numeralla River, part plains, watered by springs and Rock Flat Creek; bounded on the east by the Numeralla Mountains or Ranges; on the south by lands of Bradley, to the Rock Flat Creek; on the west by that Creek and lands of Kerwin, and Harnett; and on the north by a marked line of Harnett's land, and part land held by Lucy.

89. Moore Thomas Matthew. Name of run: Burnima. Estimated area: twenty-three thousand and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred cattle, eight thousand sheep. Bounded on the north by a watercourse leading from a range into Bombala river, including a small point on the other side of the river opposite to the bend station, whereon the hut and paddock are placed, to a large waterhole opposite Cotalmyong ; on the south by a leading range dividing Cranky Plain from Messmate Maharatta to the Bald Hills; and on the east by the Bald Hills till it joins the Back river, and by that river till it reaches Archie's Flat to Hubbard's cultivated paddocks, and from a spring near his paddock to the crossing place on the Back river; and from thence following the top of the range northerly to the point started from.

90. Malady Patrick. Name of run: Peak Station. Estimated area: ten thousand two hundred and forty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: nine hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by Mr. Andrew Badgery's run,; on the west by Mr. J. Rourke; on the north by Mr. Bradley; and on the south by Mr. Bradley's run. Whinstone ranges, high and stoney, badly watered.

91. Mowatt Francis. Name of run: Bolero. Estimated area: twenty-eight thousand eight hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: ten thousand sheep. Commencing where the Cooma road crosses the Murrumbidgee, the run is bounded on the north east by the Murrumbidgee for about six miles up to a high range running about west, which forms the boundary on that side for five or six miles, dividing it from Eccles and Curtis's stations, and including within the boundary Atkinson's morass and an old sheep station known by the name of Marr's flat; on the south-west it is bounded by another range for about three miles, dividing it from York's run, a line is then struck across to Bolero bald hill, embracing within the line an old sheep station known as the new burnt hut, dividing it from Cosgrove's sheep run until it meets the Cooma road at the base of the bald hill, which forms the boundary to the starting point at the crossing place of the Murrumbidgee.

92. Majoribanks Gilbert. Name of run: Mungerarie. Estimated area: two thousand five hundred and sixty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one hundred and sixty cattle, nine thousand sheep. South bank of the Moruya river, the opposite side of the river, either Mr. Hawdon's purchased land or land belonging to the crown. The following is a more particular descrlption: — Bounded on the north-east by the Moruya River, opposite to Hawdon's purchased land; on the south by Wumbran, Flanigan's licensed station; on the west by the Rev. Mr. McFee's station, and extending four miles up the river.

93. M'Evoy James. Name of run: Woollindibby Estimated area: eleven thousand five hundred and twenty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle. Bounded on the east by K. Brook's forest range, extending six miles south-west towards the Snowy mountains; and on the north and south by high mountain ranges. Thickly timbered and of indifferent quality.

94. M'Phee Donald. Name of run: Mila, (Boggy Creek) Estimated area: eighteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and fifty cattle. Bounded on the east by Maharatta, Mr. Throsby's station, from a spring near the ranges or mountains, on the borders of the east side of Maneroo table land, running west to east end of a leading range, commencing at the rock flat, running West from the top or summit of said range, following the windings as the water falls to the south-west, along and bounding the Chain of Ponds, Mr. John Nicholson, senior's station, until said range inclines to the south-west, and dips into the running stream named the Boggy Creek, where it bounds on the west with the Little Plain, Mr. John Nicholson, junior, station, again along the north side of said Boggy Creek stream south to the said mountain ranges, and on the south east by the mountains.

95. M'Guigan John. Name of run: Boloka Creek. Estimated area: eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five hundred cattle. Bounded on the east by Deep Stoney creek,; on the north by Carroll's run, Sheep Station creek; on the west by Pendar's run, Moamba ranges; on the south by a run lately occupied by James Hayes. Each line is about three and a half miles in length.

96. M'Guiggan Patrick. Name of run: Stockyard Flat. Estimated area: seven thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. It is bounded on the east by scrubby ranges dividing it from Mr. Alexander Gow's, of Wallandibby; on the west by a dry river and black range lying between my run and the Snowy river; on the north by a creek known by the name of Sandy creek, which divides my run from a part of Mr. A. Gow's called the Kangaroo ground; on the south by high scrubby ranges.

97. Macfie George. Name of run: Purra or Burra. Estimated area: twenty-fire thousand six hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. This station is separated from the settled districts by the Moruyah or Doura River by which it is bounded on the eastward commencing at a barren ridge where the dray road crosses the river at the cultivation paddock, and including the land on the left bank of the river to a distance of four miles up the river, and extends back- ward into the mountains to a place called Woomanderry, distant from the river by calculation about ten miles, and includes the Woomanderry, and also Burra Creek and its branches, and is bounded by barren ranges from the river round to the river again.

98. Marsden James. Name of run: Junction Station. Estimated area: five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four thousand sheep. Open forest land at the junction of the Little Plain and Deligate River, bounded on the east by the Little Plain River ; On the west by Mr. C. Campbell and Captain Nicholson's; on the north by Mr. C. Campbell's Deligate Station ; and on the south by Captain Nicholson's Little Plain Stations.

99. Dugald M'Donald. Name of run: Nimitybelle. Estimated area, eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle. From the junction of McDonald’s Creek with the McLachlan's River; northward in a straight line to the angle of Crab's creek and along that creek to a gully forming from the south end of the square range continuing along the top or ridge of the range to the north end thereof ; from that in a straight northerly line by the east side of different clumps of timber along the west margin of the spring gully in the same northern line to Curry's creek, and along the creek west ward, till past the second waterhole; from that due south or nearly so, to the highest stoney eminence south-east of Mr. Badgery's station and in sight of his offices; from that in the same straight southerly line to the highest point of the range towards Bocco ; from that in the same southerly line through Bocco flat, and along the ranges to the top of Cockpit-hill; from that through Cockpit creek to the McLachlan river ; from that eastward along the north bank of McLachlan's river to the junction of McDonald’s creek with the said river.

100. Nicholson Charles. Name of run: Ketchen- cary and Brogo. Estimated area: twenty-three thou sand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred cattle. On the north by the Caroon Mountains and a leading range dividing from Jorlington's run on the south by the Dry River dividing from Badgery run on the east by the Biga Road, dividing from Henry Badgery's run on the west by the Brogo River, and a chain of mountains dividing from Polack's run.

111. Nicholson Charles. Name of run: Windella. Estimated area: twenty-six thousand eight hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle. Bounded on the north by the Wandillo Mountains,; on the east by the Illawambura Creek dividing from Lintot's run; on the south by the Caroon Mountains; on the east by Mengunamballo-range dividing from Tarlington's run.

102. Nicholson John, jun. Name of run: Little Plain. Estimated area: twenty-eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand eight hundred cattle, or eleven thousand sheep. The Little plain station commencing at the north-west corner of the boundary at the junction of the Little Plain River; into the Deligate River; it is bounded north and north- east by a range about five miles which separates it from Lewis station, Thacker and Co., and Bumbarlo station, Ronald Campbell, also Mr. M'Phee's to a boggy crossing creek, then divided by a range on the east from Morandoge station, B. Boyd's, for about six miles, then by a scrub for six miles on the south-west to another boggy creek, which creek separates it from Qullenbarra station and B. Boyd's, for about six miles ; on the west to the Little Plain River, then crossing the Little Plain River, is separated by a deep creek from C. Lawson's station Craigi; on the south about two miles and a-half to the top of a range, which range separates it from Deligate station, Mr. Campbell's and Mr. Marsden's station; on the west for about four miles, then by Marsden's station; on the north-west by a flat, to the Deligate River about three miles, then by the Deligate River; on the west for about one mile and a half to the junction of the Little Plain River with the Deligate.

103. Nicholson John Jun. Name of run: Dundundra late Chain of Ponds. Estimated area: six thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle, three thousand sheep. Dundundra late Chain of Ponds station, commencing at the north-west corner of the boundary; it is divided on the north and north-east by the Savoy Creek for about four miles ; thence on the east by the Spring Flat about two miles, it being bounded on both sides by Maharatta Station, Charles Throsby's, and by a range on the south about three miles, which separates it from Mr. M Phee's run, Milo; then by a range dividing it on the west from Lewis' station, Thacker and Co, for about three and a half miles, then from the range by Jones' Creek to the Saucy Creek one mile, dividing it from Maharatta station.

104. O'Hara Hugh, per D. OHara. Name of run: Nimitybell. Estimated area: eight thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle Commencing at the spring at the top of Nimitybell creek, and from that spring to the main southerly dray road, and along the road in a southerly direction to the crossing place on the McLachlan river; then following said river eastward, and along the north-west bank to a creek forming from the side of a long range, and following that range northward to an old sawpit road, and along that road westward to the spring at the top of Nimitybell creek aforesaid whence commenced.

105 Pendergrass John, Name of run: Homeo. Estimated area: twenty five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: eight hundred and fifty cattle. Bounded on the west extending about three miles by the run of water running leading towards Gibbo; on the north west by barren craggy mountains extending about four miles, thence forward about four miles and a half by barren scrubby ranges, on the outside of Mount Leinster Flats in this run, thence on an easterly side by the first leading gap from Limestone Range called Mount Leinster Gap, and extending about two miles: thenceforward about three miles by barren scrubby ranges and flats unoccupied thence on the southerly side for about two miles by a creek rising in the Tamboun Mountains, and running into a morass and separating the run from McFarlane’s run and which boundary is in dispute with McFarlane’s run thence for about seven miles further by a morass which receives Mount Leinster Creek, and which separates this run from McFarlane’s run. This run is mountainous, and scrubby, and one half of no use.

106. Pendergrass John. Name of run: Cottage Creek. Estimated area: fifteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: seven hundred cattle, four thousand sheep. On the west extending three miles in a straight line to Woolway, by a fall of ground leading to Woolway and departing this run from Abram Brierly's run on the south by a clump of rocks bearing off to Reece's waterhole extending three miles, and dividing this run from Style's old run, thence forward three and a half miles, from Reece's waterhole along a ridge unnamed to the Burnt Hut creek range, and, separating this run from Charles Wright's run on the east along the ridge that leads to the Burnt Hut Creek extending two and a half miles, and separating this run from said Wright's run ; thence forward three miles, across some ranges leading from the Brother's and crossing the head of Cottage Creek, and leading up to the Twin Hills, and separating this run from, said Brierly's run on the north across the two Twin Hills, in a line extending five miles, and leading down to the corner of Arable Flat, and separating from Brierly's run; thence forward to the west three miles along Arable Creek, and separating this run from said Brierly's run.

107. Pendergrass John. Name of run: Moonbar. Estimated area: twenty-four thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle. Bounded by the Moonbar river, which makes a semi-circle half way round this run. commencing on the westerly side and running round the north to the east eight and a half miles to Holland's run from thence on the east running four miles along a chain of small ridges, which divides the run from said Holland's run thence four and a half miles further by Hobbe's range; thence on the south in a straight line half a mile along Grosse's Plain Creek, thence forward in a straight line seven miles, through rocky hills and scrubs and, which line separates this run from Payton's old run on the west by south coming nearly to a point by Snowy Mountains.

108. Peters Joseph. Name of run: Bungarby. Estimated area: thirty six thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle, eight thousand sheep. Commencing on the west at the junction of the McLaughlin with the Snowy River, and running along the Snowy River ten miles, then bending down towards the east, along standing timber for one mile, then westerly one and a half mile along a Pine range, then further bending down towards the east two and a half miles along standing timber, and which separates this run from Beards run, then northerly along Beard's Lake four miles to Sherwin's road, and along said road two miles down to the eastern boundary, thence on the east running along timber; two miles to Cooper s Hill, along Bald hill one, mile to McLaughlin river, and along said, river twelve miles to its junction as aforesaid with the Snowy River.

109 Pickering and Snape (per J. Snape) Name of run: Bald Hills Station. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Commencing at the lower end of a waterhole being a branch of the Saucy Creek, known as the Round Waterhole, from thence of the south by a line east to the main coast range , from thence on the east by the crest of that range, to a distance of about five miles northward, where a main spur emanates, from that range dividing this run from land in the occupation of Mr William Hibbard ; from thence on the north by the crest of that range westward to a point, where another range emanates from it to the southward, and thence on the west by the crest of that range southward to the commencing point; on the north by Hibburds station, on the east by the coast ranges, on the south by Messrs Throsby and Robinson's stations, and on the west by Messrs Throsby and Robinson and a portion of Mr. Moore's run.

110 Polack S. and I. Name of run: Brogo. Estimated area: six thousand four hundred acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: four hundred cattle. Bounded, on the north and east by the Brogo River,; on the west by the mountains; and on the south by the Double Creek run.

111 Robert Thomas (per Andrew Badgery) Name of run: Carry Flat. Estimated area: sixteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred and forty cattle or four thousand sheep. Bounded, on the north by Mr. Bradley's One Tree Hill station; on the east by Mr Newman's Nymytable station; on the south by Joseph Rofe's Bald Hill station,; and on the west by Jimmy Brothers Creek, bounding Patrick Malady's station.

112. Robinson Thomas L and C G. Name of run: Hugandree. Estimated area: thirteen thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred and forty cattle. This station is quadrangular; length about five miles, width four miles ; the longest side running about twenty five degrees west of north, north-west bounded by Carrett, in the possession of Mr Casties. This line is divided by a range of hills, known as Varneys Range, the western side by Bullomblerybong, occupied by Mr G. Thompson. This is open forest, no natural division. This northern corner and the north east line is bounded by Middling Bank, occupied by Mr Neale, there are some springs and dry creeks that will mark this line, the east line wholly bounded by Gijareek, occupied by Mr Brooks. This side is marked to the north east by a dry creek, by same called Tracey's Creek—a shepherd of that name once living near it, but from this creek to Varney's Range there is no natural mark.

113. Rossi Francis Nicholas. Name of run: Micilago. Estimated area: thirty-five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: nine thousand sheep. Micilago Creek on the north, Colliers Creek on the south, Tinderee mountains on the east; Murrumbidgee river on the west.

114. Throsby Charles. Name of run: Maharatta. Estimated area: twenty-two thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: one thousand cattle, eight thousand sheep. Commencing at the junction of the Back River and Bambulla, by the Bambulla from Mr. Matthewson, thence by a low range running south easterly from Captain Campbell and Mr Matthewson thence by a creek running north, the Saucy Creak east and a flat south from Mr Nicholson's, a range and creek running east from Captain McPhee, a scrubby range running north from Mr Boyd, and the same range running west from Pickering and Snape, and continuing north from Mr. Thomas Moore to the aforesaid junction of the Back and Bamballa River.

115. Throsby Charles. Name of run: Kybeso, Estimated area, twenty thousand acres Estimated grazing, capabilities, one thousand cattle. Bounded on the north and east by Kirwin and Green's stations south by Bega mountains, the west by Brown and Ward's station.

116. Rootsey Charles. Name of run: Mount Pleasant. Estimated area: five thousand acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: six hundred cattle. Bounded on the south by Thompson's run, commencing at the Forest range, north-east of Pipeclay Creek, following the Bobundra Creek three miles on the north side of the Woolway Road ; on the east by the road to Woolway, one mile to a cattle track fronting Mr Boyd's Hill station hut, and continue the track, to the Rocky Creek, thence by the Creek to a little lake; on the north by a line one mile to the top of Woolway range, continue along the range to some scattered gum trees, and on the west by a line from the said trees between Boyds lower station to the top of the Forest range; east from Pipeclay creek following the range to its junction with the Bobundera Creek.

117. Ross Donald. Name of run: Glenroy (Bowerman's) Estimated area: eleven thousand five hundred and twenty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: five thousand sheep. Bounded on the east by the Deligate run, occupied by Miss Sophia Campbell boundary commencing at the lagoon on the Deligate River (about two miles below the hut), and from thence, to the junction of the two creeks where the Corrowong Road passes; and from thence to the top of the Tombong Ranges, being about north from the lagoon, extent about three miles; bounded on the north by the Tombong run, occupied by Mr. Whittaker,— boundary line, the highest leading range, running nearly east and west; extent, about three miles; bounded on the west and north west by the Corrowong run, occupied by Messrs Staunton and O'Hara, boundary line, the top of the highest leading range commencing from it's junction with the Tombong range and running nearly in a southerly direction for about three miles; and from thence it extends in a westerly direction for about eight miles to its termination at the Deligate river; bounded on the south by the Deligate river, bearing frontage of about nine miles.

118. Ryrie Stewart, junior. Name of run: Cootalandra. Estimated area: seven thousand six hundred and eighty acres. Estimated grazing capabilities: three hundred and thirty cattle, or two thousand two hundred sheep. The Cootalandra run commences at a point to a small dry creek, and runs about two miles and a half west, one hundred and thirty degrees north, crossing Cootalandra creek and a marked tree, exactly half way between the sheep stations of Messrs Brooks and Ryrie to the top of a high range; this line is bounded by the run of Mr. R. Brooke, from the top of the range along the edge of several flats a line bearing round from west one hundred and forty five degrees north to south sixty degrees east, and on the same bearing over a little forest ridge to a small lake. often dry, through the lake, on into a creek by a line nearly north ; this line is bounded by Mr. J. Neale's run and is about four miles long down the creek past an old sheep station thence on to the top of a low ridge, and along the crest of the ridge, in a south-easterly direction down on to a fixed point on a plain; this line may be about three miles long, and is bounded by the run of Mr. D. Cassels, from the point on the plain; a line south forty-three degrees west to a marked tree near the north east corner of Cootalandra big lake, across the lake to the south-west corner and down the small dry watercourse to the first mentioned starting point; this line is about four miles long and it bounds by the run of Messrs. Wallace and Ryrie.

Printed and published by CHARLES KEMP and JOHN FAIRFAX, at the Morning Herald Printing Office, Lower George-street, Sydney, New South Wales, Saturday, October 7, 1848

There are few districts in New South Wales of which so little is known by the public as Manaro, or, as it is sometimes called Monaro, and sometimes Manaroo. This is mainly owing to its remoteness from Sydney, and to the bad or mountainous roads that lead to it, as well as to the fact that its people are a quiet, reasonable race, attending to their own business, and (so far as circumstances will permit) promoting their own prosperity by their own industry, rather than clamouring for Government assistance, and preferring to be represented in Parliament by a man of their own stamp, rather than by a noisy agitator.

But there is no district in the entire colony more deserving of notice than Manaro, It has a beauty peculiarly its own; its natural resources are very great; and it must, erelong, occupy a very prominent place amongst the provinces of New South Wales.

I propose to give a brief description of it — an imperfect description, no doubt — but one that may lead to a fuller and more accurate account by some other writer, having a longer acquaintance with the subject, and a better knowledge of it.

Manaro constitutes the greater part of the south eastern corner of the colony, and is composed of the counties of Wellesley, Wallace, and Beresford. It is bounded on the south by that part of the "dividing line" between New South Wales and Victoria, which extends from the most southerly limit of our Coast range to Forest Hill, on the Snowy Range, or Australian Alps; on the west by those Alps from Forest Hill to a point about twenty miles northward of Kiandra; on the north by a line stretching eastward from that point to the Coast range; and on the east by that range. Manaro, thus defined, embraces the entire of the "Electoral District" of that name, and comprises a tract of about one hundred miles in length, and .an average (say) of about sixty miles in width. Not only this large extent of country, but also the districts of Eden, Bega, and Broulee — or those lying between the Coast range and the sea from Cape Howe to Moruya — are sometimes referred to as included in Manaro.

That, however, is, for most purposes, an inaccurate and far too comprehensive a description.

Manaro proper, or the territory whose boundaries I have endeavoured to define, is of a totally different character — in climate, soil, natural features, and products from that of the coast districts just named. It is for "pastoral purposes" only — or, as comprised in the Southern "Pastoral District" of the colony, under a Lands Office arrangement, that those coast regions are said to be part of Manaro; and even their "pastoral" qualities, and capabilities are very dissimilar to its. Accordingly, this paper has reference mainly to Manaro inland, which lies about sixty miles from the coast, and is a plateau varying from 2500 to 3000 feet above the sea-level. It has detached mountains of still greater height, and mountain ranges, parts of which are upwards of 6000 feet in height, Manaro was "discovered by Captain Currie and Brigadier-General Ovens, in 1823, during their expedition to examine the south of Lake George. On the 3rd June of that year, after passing through much good country of brush lands, they reached an extensive plain, which proved to be the commencement of a very long chain of downs, well grassed and well watered. These they explored for nearly seventy miles without reaching their termination; and they named them the 'Brisbane Downs,' in honour of Sir Thomas Brisbane, the then Governor." (a) Bailliere’s Gazetteer

The same downs-which lie eastward both of the Snowy River and of the Murrumbidgee are sometimes called "The Manaro Plains." And I may here refer to "the Snowy Plains," an extensive tract of undulating and broken forest country, lying between the Snowy Range on the west and the Eucombene River on the east. These plains are intersected by high wooded ranges and swampy flats; there is much good grazing country as well, though this is usually covered with snow during winter (aa) Ibid

Manaro generally enjoys a dry and clear, cold, and bracing climate — one that is peculiarly healthful and agreeable, and very suitable, except during the winter months, to invalids suffering from chest diseases. Indeed, during the greater part of the year the mere sensation of one's existence in such a climate is a pleasure and delight. But the cold in winter is often great, and the frosts severe. Then, the earlier fruits and flowers are nipped in the bud, the crops endangered, and the pools bound in ice. Then, too, and for some time afterwards, the "Snowy Mountains" justify their name; for their summits are wreathed in snow; and I have often seen, from the smaller hills, a dazzling line of glorious light, thus formed — a line stretching for thirty or forty miles along the horizon. In no part of the district is the presence of snow once or twice a year at all unusual; and there is a more frequent and heavy fall of it about Kiandra than in any other part; of the colony. In summer, the heat is occasionally intense; and then the traveller experiences its full fierceness as he journeys over the great and often shelterless "downs," which constitute a very large portion of Manaro', — and a dust-storm on those downs is the next thing to a sirocco. But the evenings and nights —not to speak of the early mornings — are almost always cool and pleasant; and mosquitos are virtually, if not actually, unknown. Whilst the unfortunates of Sydney, and the Coast, are sweltering in the close murky atmosphere of those places, the people of Manaro are enjoying their firesides, or breathing a pure dry air that sends roses to the cheek of youth, and vigour to manhood.

Manaro is generally thought to be a country of big plains ; but it would be more properly described as one of undulating downs, and great mountains; for it is broken, flowing, and beautifully diversified in its surface and outline, rather than flat or even. It is a land of hillsides, gentle slopes, and valleys that extend through its entire length; as one terminates, the other begins – along the main road, at least, and for miles on either hand. As I have said, it is bordered on the right and left by the Australian Alps and Coast range; and it is partly intersected by the, Murrumbidgee range. The "Brothers" and one or two other isolated mountains rise above it, here and there; and it is fronted by the Tindera Range, jagged, weird, and grand. Great sheep walks lie between; and it is well watered by many a river, creek, and spring.

There are three or four lakes of considerable size; smaller ones are dotted over it in the winter season; and these are the favourite resting place of the swan, duck, and teal. Here, it is wooded to the mountain tops; there, a sea of grass stretches from your feet for miles, without a tree or shrub — except, perhaps, some; solitary sentinel standing out against the sky in the far distance; or, a sudden ascent or turn in the road reveals glades as green, and parks as fair, as ever graced an English landscape. In a word, those who have not seen Manaro have missed one of the most diversified and beautiful districts in Australia. And where a great sloping down, flocks of sheep or herds of cattle, a glistening river, and sweeping mountain range, or giant masses piled on high, and blocking up the sky, rise to view at the same moment (as from the heights of Billilingera, or above "Buckley's Crossing,") there bursts on the enraptured eye a panorama of grandeur and loveliness which can rarely be surpassed in any part of the world. I dwell on these features because it is the fashion — an idle, ignorant fashion — amongst many of those who are indebted to Australia for all they possess to ignore its beauties, and scoff at their own and children's home, as a "land of gum trees, tameness, and sameness."

But there is another side of the picture, which must also be given. During a "drought" the face of the country is sadly changed; the downs are no longer green but brown, there is scarcely a blade of grass to be seen, the hill sides are clothed with red iron-stones, the creeks are dry, most of the rivers shrivelled up, and the cattle and sheep half dead from starvation, or away on the mountains.

Whether the extensive downs that are now treeless were always so; and, if so, whether they were the beds of lakes at any time; or, if they were at one time forest land, whether the trees that then covered them have been destroyed by fire, or by some such cause as the mysterious disease that is now devastating the bush in many parts of the colony, — are questions of much interest, but so doubtful as scarcely to admit of a satisfactory answer.

The principal rivers in Manaro are the Snowy River, with its tributaries; the Eucombene and Mowamba, the Bobundara, the Bombala, and the McLaughlan, &c, &c; and the Murrumbidgee, with its tributaries; the Umeralla, and the Bredbo, &c, &c;. The Snowy River has its rise in a peak of the Snowy Range, called the Ramshead, from which it flows in a N.E. direction about twenty miles; when it turns off to the S E. for about 150 miles; it then makes a bend to the N.W., and, turning almost due S, crosses the boundary line into Victoria (about fourteen miles E. of Forest Hill), and takes its final course through Gippsland to the sea (between the entrance to the lakes and Cape Howe). This river flows through rugged and precipitous mountain scenery for nearly the whole of its course. There is little or no cultivation carried on upon its banks, but in some places gold washings have been established. Its course in New South Wales is about 240 miles in length; its tributaries represent a total river flow of over 3000 miles, and both are very liable to floods, caused by the melting of the snow in the ranges, by which it and most of them are encompassed (b) Bailliere’s Gazetteer.

The Snowy River is a noble one, wide, deep, and rapid. About the beginning of the present summer I saw it at "Buckley's Crossing." It was then as much as a strong man could do to make any head against it in a small boat; and two out of four horses that were driven into the river, and forced to the attempt, had some difficulty in swimming across it, so rapid was the current. No man would have been safe in making a similar attempt, especially as the coldness of the water was intense; he would probably have been "numbed" before he was two minutes in it. I put my hand and wrist into a side current, and was very glad to take them out again. One who lived upon the river banks has told me, that he often found its temperature so low as 40˚ in the end of October. This is owing to the fact that the river and its tributary creeks are mainly fed, at that season, by melted snows from the Snowy Range. There is no bridge over the river; the only crossing places are "Buckley's" and — these are not fordable by teams, except when it is very low. Travelling stock must swim across as and when they can. There was, but is no longer, a punt in use at "Buckley's." The thing itself — neither ornamental or useful — now lies upon the bank high and dry — by whose neglect or fault I do not know; but the Estimates of 1870 are, I think, coming to the rescue. The Murray cod is not found, and I believe will not live, in this, the upper and colder portion of the river — whatever it may do in the lower part or Victorian side. But I can see no reason why fish of a hardier kind — salmon and salmon trout, for instance — should not thrive in every part of it, if only placed in proper beds, in a proper state, and at a proper time; and I do not despair of seeing the accomplishment of this prediction. It is said, that there are immense falls on some parts of the river; that other parts are lost under ground; and that no man has been able to follow, or can follow, the course of the river beyond certain points; but all these generalities should be taken cum grano. I have still faith in the suitability of the river, both for salmon and salmon trout; and, with a moderate, steady current, a good boat and a hearty crew, a trip down it should be very enjoyable.

An effort was made not long ago to stock the Bombala (one of the tributaries of the Snowy) with cod taken from the Murrumbidgee; but it was unsuccessful; the arrangements were imperfect, and the weather unfavourable. The attempt will probably be renewed under more favourable auspices. I have alluded to this subject, the adaptability of Manaro rivers for fisheries, not only because delicious fish would be a pleasant change from beef and mutton, and mutton and beef, at the tables both of rich and poor, but chiefly, because Angling is, indeed, a "gentle craft; " and it is desirable to encourage every pastime that promotes man's health and cheerfulness, the love of country and of country scenes, and that counteracts in any way the feverish haste and money-grabbing spirit of the day.

The Murrumbidgee has its source in two heads — one to the north rising in Peppercorn Hill (a detached mountain lying about 10 miles N E of Yarrangobilly) and flowing S. about 12 miles, when it joins the other head, which rises in the north slope of Mount Tantangora (an east elevation of the Kiandra goldfields, situate about 3 miles from the township (c) Both Tantangara and Peppercorn Hill though detached from the main chain, belong to the Snowy Mountains — Ibid. and runs north about 8 miles. After the junction of its two sources, or heads, the stream flows in a general S.E. direction through rough granite and scrubby country for about 40 miles; when it suddenly bends round to the north, flowing in that direction through a similar country until its confluence with the Yass River; from which it takes a westerly course (being fed by numerous important streams), through a vast extent of good country; and finally pours its waters into the Murray, about twenty miles S W. of Balranald. The banks of the Murrumbidgee in its upper course — or, through Manaro — are very high, and even precipitous; the mountainous country through which it flows being intersected by numerous cliffs and yawning chasms of immense depth; and the limestone rock which forms the basis of the over hanging hills crops out continually in long regular lines of upheaval, giving in some places the appearance of ruled lines, so straight and regular is the out crop. This formation is occasionally varied by rocks of a porphyritic character, which sometimes form high cliffs or perpendicular steeps rising from the river bed. "Here and there, with every bend of the river, rich flats of alluvial deposit occur, mostly above the ordinary line of floods, and varying in extent from twenty or thirty to a couple of hundred acres each. Nothing can be more beautiful than the country about the banks of this part of the river; the fine swelling hills, 700 or 800 feet high, sometimes rising abruptly — sometimes mounting by a long slope — to the summit, the rich flats all more or less cultivated, the river winding amidst them clear and bright, birds sailing over its surface, and the fresh pure breeze invigorating the lungs, and making the act of breathing a luxury; these, and the profusion of vegetation forming, together, a picture of the most serene and peaceful beauty." (d) Ibid

The Manaro portion of the Murrumbidgee used to be well stocked with Murray cod; but these are not so plentiful as they were; a flood gets credit for having lessened their numbers.

The principal towns of Manaro are Cooma and Bombala — the first about thirty miles from the northern, and the other about the same distance from the southern limits of the district. Each is surrounded by extensive stations, or squattages.

I cannot say that Cooma is now either a very lively, or very progressing place — though prettily situated at, the base of high ranges, which enclose it at nearly every point — and, during the " rush to Kiandra " (to which it was a sort of sally port), it went ahead rapidly; its "town allotments" attained to an extravagant price; and all things " looked rosy." At present, however, its leaf is somewhat in the sere; and its strength, instead of being centred in one locality or spot, is divided — and, therefore, wasted — by being scattered over two, with a steep hill between. Fortunately, the English church stands on the top of that hill, and may yet be the means of uniting the opposite branches of Manaro's capital, which Cooma still claims to be: And if a gibbet be an emblem of civilisation (as a philosopher has said), the, large gaol which is now being erected in it, must be a gratifying object of progress, if not of peace and order, to some of its citizens. The Court house is a very creditable building; and the magistrates of that and every other part of the district are assiduous in the discharge of their important duties. They feel that this is but a reasonable return from men so circumstanced, for the large expenditure of public money in the protection of the property of the country. The "Chinaman's garden" at Cooma is another creditable and interesting feature — for it proves what can be accomplished under an Australian sky by irrigation, and the labour of three or four skilful hands, in the production, on a small piece of ground, of nearly every description of vegetable and fruit known to Europe.

Bombala bids fair to surpass its rival in most respects, especially if the neighbouring mines prove a success; and many persons consider it a pleasanter place. It lies on a stretch of sloping land with the river of the same name running by or through it — a clear, bright stream — and visible from most parts of the town (a somewhat unusual feature in our township rivers). A kindly, genial feeling pervades its people and the neighbouring proprietors: Jew and Gentile are true friends, the stores well supplied, tradesmen civil and expert, and all seem anxious to promote the prosperity of the place by their honest industry, private means, and countenance. It is hereabouts that one sees the best breed of cattle in Manaro: And there are gardens in the vicinity for fruit, vegetables, and flowers, such as one seldom meets with in any part of the colony. Both at Cooma and Bombala the churches are an ornament to the townships; their ministers wisely feel that a house of God is not undeserving of chaste design, simple embellishment, and sweet harmony, whether it be Protestant or Catholic. And the Public or National school at Bombala is a model of what such a school ought to be. The children of gentlemen are amongst the pupils — and very properly so; for they are receiving a most excellent education there, at a very moderate cost.

But the Bombala Court house and lock-up are a positive disgrace to any country, or part of a country; they render the decent administration of Justice an impossibility, and are both an insult and a cruelty to magistrates, suitors, and witnesses, prisoners, keepers, and all concerned. I have pleasure in adding that tenders are about to be called for additions and improvements to both buildings. A Court of Petty Sessions and a District Court are held both at Cooma and Bombala, and a Court of Quarter Sessions at Cooma. I suppose we shall soon hear of an application for a Circuit Court as well; and it would be available not only for Manaro, but also for the adjoining Coast districts.

Kiandra, a third township in Manaro, is situated on the Eucombene River. I have not, as yet, been able to visit it, and I regret the circumstance; for though the place itself is fallen into decay since the comparative failure of the "diggings," and is said to be a deserted looking spot now (far different from when it was the centre of a busy goldfield), the surrounding country is stated to be one of great interest and wild beauty; and when the squatters who, at the close of last year, accompanied their starving sheep and cattle across the Snowy River, from the then bare, red, and arid downs on this side of it, had reached the mountain ranges that surround Kiandra, they found a land of grass, streams, and flowers, gladdening to their own hearts, and life giving to their poor beasts — a consequence of the heavy and long-resting snows that had fallen there during the summer. It had been stated that "Kiandra has, perhaps, the coldest climate in New South Wales."

Adaminaby, Nimitibelle, Seymour, and Delegate, are villages on the southern side of Manaro; villages of the usual Australian type — a smithy and a public house or two, &c. — and therefore require no further description; but Delegate, being near to "where gold is," has a larger population, and is more thriving than most such villages; and I may mention this of one of the others: — In July last, a party of three gentlemen dined and slept at the principal Inn of Nimitybelle; and cleaner rooms or a better dinner none of the three ever enjoyed, though one of them had seen life in many a land, and all three knew what is meant by comfort, and good fare. Wild turkeys and the kangaroo can be found in numbers at no great distance from this village; and its inn would be capital quarters for a sportsman during the season.

There is a good bush road from Micalago to Cooma, except for about two miles, which are "rather rutty"; and from Cooma to Bombala the road is also good, except during wet weather — and then the black mud of some of the flats is a "caution to travellers." It clogs your wheels, and clings to your horses' feet, or is pelted in amongst your own in big cakes; and nothing but grim patience and steady hard pulling will carry you through it. There is another, an upper and somewhat longer road, from Cooma to Bombala, (by "Woolway and Duke's Springs); but even that is very heavy in places at such times, and the descent of the hill side that leads to the Maclaughlin River is a somewhat formidable undertaking — one that requires good britchen to your horses, and a firm, strong hand in the driver. But the prospect from the same hill side is ample compensation for the difficulty of the descent. I shall give the best idea of it to others by stating that it always reminds me of those Abyssinian gorges which our soldiers looked down upon from the heights of Senaffe as they marched to Magdala), and which pictorial art has rendered so familiar to the British public. There has been very little Government money expended upon the roads of Manaro — compared at least with the expenditure upon our Hunter River end Northern roads — and a few bridges (one over the Bredbo — which is about to be erected — one over the Maclaughlin, and one over the Bombala for example) are greatly needed. Perhaps Government is of opinion that the spirited people of Manaro should initiate the policy of making their own roads and erecting their own bridges — a policy which should be adopted by the whole colony; for it would secure good roads and bridges everywhere, at a comparatively trifling cost too, and be a check on the corruption of the existing system, under which our Representatives are almost forced to barter their independence for Government outlay in their respective districts.

The population of Manaro proper I have failed to ascertain; but the number of registered electors in the Electoral district is 1451 — of whom 672 voted at the last general election — 1864-65.

The Aborigines of Manaro are now very few in number (whatever they may have been) One may travel through the district, time after time, without meeting with, or hearing of, any of them ; and if the immense tracts that are now without a tree were always so, it could never have supported a large native population-unless the habits of the kangaroo (one of their principal staples of food) have largely altered, and that it formerly frequented the open downs, which it will not now venture upon. In either case the Aboriginal race will be the next thing to extinct, both here and in all other parts of the colony, before twenty years have expired — a sad consequence of our superior civilisation! While, at the same time, a remarkable proof is afforded at Woolway of their intelligence, skill, and attachment as servants, when properly cared for, and properly instructed.

Manaro is almost essentially a pastoral country: it produces little bread for man, or "hard feed" for horses — in proportion, at least, to its acreable extent of clear land — both of these commodities are imported, in considerable quantities, from the coast, or via Goulburn. But in 1868 rather more than 5000 acres (freehold and leasehold) were under cultivation, and ' yielded 17,617 bushels wheat, 8850 bushels oats, 2650 bushels barley, 3075 tons hay, and 661 tons potatoes.

Manaro is not, at present, even a cattle (horned cattle) country to any very great extent. The breeding and fattening of cattle, once a leading branch of industry there, became partially neglected (in favour of sheep, but is now upon the increase, consequent on the low price of the latter, and the high price of the former. The best bred cattle I have seen in Manaro were on the Maharatta station, in the neighbourhood of Bombala: And though the climate is peculiarly adapted for the raising of horse stock, there are very few "thoroughbreds" in the district. The proprietor of Billilingera is striving to remedy this defect. Of "weeds," branded and unbranded, there is no lack — as every traveller must observe, and station owners know to their cost; though the rifle, and boiling-down process are gradually thinning the ranks. In 1868 there were in Manaro 53,353 horned cattle, 3507 horses, and 1047 porkers (the coast district, with its maize fields, is the place for these last).

Manaro is essentially a sheep country — an immense sheep walk — partitioned out amongst some thirty squatters, and, I imagine, about four times as many free-selectors — each of them owning sheep — one firm, so many as 60,000, &c; other proprietors 40,000, 20,000, 10,000, &c, down to 200 or 300 — and depasturing them on its immense, extensive, and comparatively few squattages. On the line of road from Micalago to Bombala, by Cooma, Woolway and Duke's Springs, a distance of about ninety-five miles, one only passes through ten or eleven of these. And between the occupants, the squatters, each of whom has purchased largely — from 1000 (say} up to 20,000 acres — of the 'stations which they hold, or originally leased, and the free selectors, who have bought, and are entitled to pre-emptive rights over, other portions of these stations, there are the usual and almost inevitable feuds. Each party has its own Association for the protection of its interests — and might profit by a little moderation and forbearance to the other; for a few bad or thoughtless men may widen the breach between them, almost irreparably. There are now about half-a-million of sheep and lambs in Manaro (in 1868 there were 537,764); and I am informed, on good authority, that 100,000 of these are in excess of the number it can usually and properly carry. The owners seek to compensate themselves for the "fall in wool" by multiplying, to an undue extent, the backs that carry it; and I do not think (if I may venture to express the opinion) that sufficient attention is paid to the breed of their flocks, or to the quality of the staple which they produce. During a favourable season like the present, when the district is covered, from one end to the other, with rich waving grass, there is feed enough for the entire half million; but this is a very exceptionable season (none like it for many years past, "the oldest inhabitants" say); and when there is a "drought" — as there was last year, and may be any year — the district must prove unable to support such numerous flocks; they will die in thousands for want of grass, or must be driven "to the mountains," in their weakened state, with much labour, and at great risk, and certain cost, as was the case last year. I should have supposed the wiser policy would be to improve the breed, and quality of the wool, to the highest attainable point of excellence; to fence the runs so far as tenure, means, and other circumstances will permit; and where possible to do something in the way of introducing English grasses; for one-half of the extent of land, and one-half of the number of sheep, that are now required, or thought to be required, for or on a station, would then yield as much as all now do; and the cost of management would be reduced by more than one half. I know that such improvements can only effected by slow degrees, unless where there is a large capital at command. I know, too, that the present state of the Land laws, and land regulations is considered a sore discouragement to the making of any improvements that can possibly be avoided. It is believed, for instance, that upon one station in Manaro free selectors are now, by virtue or colour of their selections and pre-emptive rights, grazing 30,000 sheep over and above those which the owners of that station have, or can, put upon it, or brought with it, at a great price, a few years back. It is also believed that many free selectors have no honest intention, or thought of bettering their condition by honest means, but are influenced by dishonest or revengeful motives only, when free-selecting and claiming pre-emptive rights on the stations of squatters, whom they mean to victimise; and that very many other free selectors, influenced by right intentions and just motives, have shown such lamentable ignorance or improvidence in the making of their selections — in choosing localities for the purpose — as must involve certain poverty and misery upon themselves and their families, so long as they cling to those selections; whilst the squatters upon whom they select are equally harassed, and almost as much injured, as they would be were the selections made for a bad purpose. In fact, a station that has been largely selected upon, and is still likely to be largely selected upon, is not worth having at a gift. But all this, when rightly understood, only shows the necessity of the squatters circumscribing, fencing, and otherwise improving his station, and enhancing the quality of his wool and stock to the utmost of his power. It is his only chance, so long as those laws and regulations are considered just, and remain in force.

And not only did the state of things which the same laws and regulations were intended to remedy call for redress, but the principle which they embody is correct enough. Before free selection was introduced the great majority of the squatters were, and, except for it, would still be, in the occupation of far greater tracts of country than they really require, or could occupy; and since free selection was introduced several millions of acres of that country have been profitably selected, and have afforded happy homes and prosperous homesteads to thousands of honest, hard working, and intelligent families — for I am happy to believe that this class of free selectors is quite as numerous as the other classes of them to whom I have above referred, if not far more numerous.

It is the present reckless, haphazard method of applying and working out the principle of our Land laws and regulations which have created, and are creating, so much ill blood, and have occasioned, and are occasioning, so much injury and wrong in every district in the colony. The Equitable maxim, that he who is first in time shall be deemed first in right, should not have been, and should not be, set aside, merely because some other person, coming in later, and influenced, perhaps, by nefarious motives, or utter folly, wishes to interfere with that right, and, by a bare application to the Government, thrust out the earlier occupant, utterly regardless of the necessities of his position. A reasonable case for the intrusion — of wants on the one hand, and superabundance on the other — should be made out to the satisfaction of a competent local tribunal, before the existing right is defeated. In like manner, when disputes arise — and they must frequently arise between squatters and free selectors, or between free selectors and free selectors — they should be dealt with by the same tribunal. The decision of such disputes by litigation is tedious, harassing, and costly, and not very satisfactory, either. The settlement of them by arbitration is, in my opinion, a still worse, because an equally dilatory and costly, and a yet more uncertain remedy; and an appeal to the Minister, or Land Office, in Sydney is, I think, no remedy at all, or the worst remedy of all. It is absurd to suppose that any officer or office, so placed, can adjudicate, with justice or expedition, upon the endless questions that arise respecting the tenure and occupancy of the lands of a colony such as New South Wales — which is as big as the whole of France and of the United Kingdom put together. Besides, the Minister is a political officer, and, therefore, however upright and pure he may be, so exposed to suspicions that he ought not to be called upon to act as a Judge. I humbly conceive that the most satisfactory method of dealing with our Land question difficulties, and the most effectual method of settling the disputes incident to it, would be, that all applications for free selections, and pre emptive rights, whether made by the poor man or by the rich — by the labourer or by the squatter — should be — not as at present — of almost absolute right, on lodging a deposit and signing a form at the Land agent’s, but should be made and heard in an open court, sitting in the townships nearest to the site of the land sought to be affected, and composed of the Police Magistrate, the Commissioner of Crown Lands, and the District or other disinterested Government Surveyor acquainted with the lands; and that the decision on mal-applications should be made to depend not only upon the wants of the applicants, but also on the suitability of the lands, and their capability to meet the same, consistently with existing and necessary interests vested in other persons claiming from the Crown under similar applications, or under leaseholds previously granted. The same tribunal should also determine all such disputes as are above referred to. A similar scheme has been recently proposed by the Minister for Lands in Victoria; and I have just learned that "Mr. O'Shanassy advocates the establishment of a non-political and independent tribunal to settle all disputes arising out of the working of the Victorian Land Act" (e) Melbourne Letter of Sydney Morning Herald 9^th November 1869

I have written thus much upon our vexed Land question, because a fair solution of it, or the adoption of the means for that purpose, is of vital importance to Manaro — as well as to every other part of the colony — and because there is much to be said on both sides of that question — a fact which the advocates of either interest generally ignore; and it is a great mistake to suppose that the country at large, or even the parties themselves, would be benefited by the crushing of either. "Live and let live" is a prudent, as well as Christian maxim, all the world over. Perhaps I may be allowed to add, that the squatters of the colony at large have been singularly regardless of their own interests in neither procuring a sufficient representation of those interests in Parliament,; or even agreeing amongst themselves upon some basis for amended legislation. And many of the proposals which have been put forward by free selecting Associations are so extravagant and unjust that no rational Legislature can ever be expected to adopt them.

Several parts of Manaro are highly auriferous, especially in the neighbourhoods of Delegate and Kiandra; from each of which gold is procured both by "washing" and "quartz-crushing." The quantity of gold received from the district, by escort, in 1868, was 4962 oz., value £19, 222 10s, 6d. Silver, lead, and copper, are said to abound in the same vicinities, and have been obtained from them, but in no great quantities, so far. Victorian and Sydney capital is now employed in developing certain of the mines; but the management of some of them does not seem to have been very successful. It is to be hoped that more prosperous times are in store for all.

There is a Seltzer spring between Cooma and Nimmitabel. It gushes from the chinks of a rock-hewn well close by a great pile of rugged stones; the water is excellent, whether drank by itself, or mixed with a little sherry. Accounts vary as to whether it will “keep," or not. A story is told of some "wild spirits" having once brought a keg of "Jamaica" to the well, and drank seltzer and rum, shouted and danced, until they were half mad; that then one of them dashed the keg in pieces, and poured into the bubbling waters what remained of the rum — and that every one of the party afterwards came to a "bad end," — a highly probable conclusion, if the other parts of the story be well founded.

The garden fruits, flowers, and vegetables of Northern Europe all grow to perfection in Manaro, though they sometimes suffer from the frosts. The apple, gooseberry, and currant are particularly good. Grapes do not ripen except in sheltered nooks; and there does not appear to be a great variety of wild flowers eastward of the Snowy River — though a pleasant hour may occasionally be spent in gathering them there — and men say that westward of the river is Flora's own domain.

Manaro has considerable attraction for the sportsman: duck, and teal, and plover are very numerous. You can find them in nearly every creek, and lake, and swamp. About five miles from Burnamah there are two large lakes, and you have only to "plant" yourself by one of them, and send a beater to the other, that you may bag a dozen birds. On the same lakes the stately swan is a frequent visitor; and you may see it, or hear its wild notes high in air, in many other parts of this district. The melancholy cry of the curlew may be heard every night; and the green parrot is frequently seen. Wild turkeys are partial to its plains. In the beginning of every summer the traveller will see three or four of them almost every day; and if he be on horse- back, or (better still) seated in any vehicle, he may come within a few yards of them before they will rise — which they have some difficulty in doing. I have chased them in a buggy, and been so close to them that a good shot could have struck them with a thrown stick, before they took wing. But they will not allow you to approach nearly co close, or, if they can help it, within any sort of range, if you be on foot. The turkey is a beautiful and noble looking bird, as it stalks along with head erect and white neck glistening in the sun. There are too many lambs in Manaro not to be a favourite abode of the eagle-hawk, and one may often observe a pair of them “poised o'erhead" or watching for a dash. Its great mountains — the Tindera, Murrumbidgee, Snowy, and Coast Ranges — must also be the home of many a brown, black, or golden eagle; and the listless shepherd is sometimes startled from his reverie by the rush of a dark shadow, the helpless bleat of the prey, and the exulting yelp of the robber. I have been told that snipe are plentiful in some parts of Manaro, and there are many "likely places” for them. Of pigeons, I have only met with the bronze-wing.'

The kangaroo or wallaby would have no chance upon the open areas, and, therefore, carefully avoids them. It is only in the wooded glades or mountain sides they are got. The native dog is almost extirpated in Manaro. The opposum is found wherever there are trees; so is the native bear, with its furry coat, whitish ears, and square head, and placid look.

At Bibbenluke a bear came down from the hills one night last month, and planted himself on the branches of a willow overhanging the Bombala River. All the next day he remained there at his ease, and took but little notice of the visitors whom he attracted. The following morning he was gone. Some time previously another little fellow was found, one morning, perched upon a fence, within a couple of feet of the end of a watch-dog's chain, the dog leaping and barking furiously at the intruder, and Master Bruin taking matters very quietly. At the same station the platypus may be seen swimming at his leisure, with bill outstretched, and pliant body peering above the water. The creature is carefully "preserved," and hence its unusual confidence. A very young one was dug from a hole in the garden bank of the river, and has been described as resembling "a big shrimp more than anything else.”

Where every door is open, and every proprietor is a courteous host, it would be invidious to do more than acknowledge the general fact, with earnest feeling, and proper gratitude. And if this brief sketch of Manaro shall induce its people to prize it the more, and to be thankful for the home that God has given them — or, if it shall rightly guide the wanderer's steps in search of Nature's glories, the bloom of health, or peaceful nest, the object of the writer will have been fully accomplished.

I HAVE long thought that the best account of New South Wales would be supplied by a series of papers carefully compiled, but written in a plain, familiar style, by different persons, and each descriptive of one of our provinces or great districts — its physical features, climate, and people, its products, manufactures, and capabilities — the laws that affect it — its towns and villages, highways and by-ways, sports and pastimes — birds and beasts, &c, &c. An amount of varied information, interesting detail, and graphic picture would thus be presented that could be procured in no other way, and be worth (be it reverently said) a dozen 'Blue-books" to the general reader. May the following be received as a contribution to such a work:—

There are few districts in New South Wales of which so little is known by the public as Manaro, or, as it is sometimes called, Monaro, and some times Manaroo. This is mainly owing to its remoteness from Sydney (its northern or nearest boundary is upwards of 200 miles from that capital), and to the bad or mountainous roads that lead to it from Queanbeyan and Braidwood, Tumut, Gippsland, and the Coast.

But there is scarcely a district in the entire colony that is more deserving of notice than Manaro. It has a beauty peculiarly its own, in its rolling "downs," long mountain ranges, and winding rivers; its climate is unsurpassed: its natural resources are great; and it must ere long occupy a very prominent place amongst our provinces.

Manaro proper constitutes the greater part of the south-eastern corner of the colony, and is composed of the counties of Wellesley, Wallace, and Beresford. It may be considered as bounded on the north by a line stretching eastward from a point about twenty miles northward of Kiandra (intersecting the Murrumbidgee Range and River, and the village of Micalago, and skirting thence the Tindera and Gingera Mountains, to the Coast Range); on the south by that portion of the "dividing line " between New South Wales and Victoria, which extends from the most southerly limit of the Coast Range to Forest Hill (on the Snowy Range or Australian Alps); on the west by those Alps, from Forest Hill to the before mentioned point northward of Kiandra; and on the east by the Coast Range.

Manaro, thus defined, embraces the entire, or almost the entire, of the Electoral district of that name, and consists of two divisions, or Police Districts — those of Cooma (to the north), and of Bombala (to the south); each of these has a town of the same name has itself, placed in the centre; and they meet about, or on a line with, Nimitabel, east and west — the one extending thence to Micalago; and the other to the "dividing line," or borders of Gippsland. There is thus comprised an area of about 100 miles in length, and (on an average) of about fifty miles in width. Not only this large tract, but also many miles of country northward of Micalago, and the eastern, maritime districts of Eden, Bega, and Broulee or those lying between the Coast Bange and the sea from Cape Howe to Moruya — are sometimes referred to, or included, under the term Manaro, which, then, embraces "a larger extent of land available for pasture and agriculture than is to be found in the whole of the island of Tasmania." That, however, is for most purposes an inaccurate and far too comprehensive a description. Manaro proper, or the inland territory, whose boundaries I have endeavoured to define, is of a totally different character — in climate, soil, natural features, and products from that of the northern country just referred to, or of the coast districts just named. It is for “pastoral purposes" only, under a Lands' Oftice arrangement — or, as comprised in the "pastoral district of Manaro" — that those coast regions and northern lands are said to be part of Manaro; and even their " pastoral" qualities and capabilities are very dissimilar to its. Accordingly, this paper has reference mainly to Manaro inland. I shall not even treat of that portion of it which is beyond or west of the Snowy River, or of the Eucombene; for that is a region of snow and ice, and gold, of mountains, plains, and steeps, flowers and brooks, that well deserves separate notice. The land of which I do write lies about sixty miles from the sea, between the Coast Range and the Snowy River, east and west — Micalago and the Victorian Border, north and south — and is a plateau varying from 2300 to 3000 feet above the sea level. It has detached mountains and mountain ranges of still greater height; and is at the same time distinct from the neighbouring uplands that lie between the Snowy River and the spurs of the Snowy Range.

Manaro was discovered by Captain Curry and Brigadier-General Ovens in 1823, during their expedition to examine the country to the south of Lake George. On the 3^rd of June of that year, after passing through considerable tracts of bush lands, they reached an extensive plain, which proved to be the commencement of a very long chain of "downs," well grassed, and well watered. These they explored for nearly seventy miles without reaching their termination; and they named them the "Brisbane Downs," in honour of Sir Thomas Brisbane, the then Governor of the colony. The same “downs" are now more commonly called" The Manaro Plains."

Manaro generally enjoys a dry and clear, cold and bracing climate — one that is peculiarly healthful and agreeable, and very suitable, except during the severe winter months, to most invalids. To the strong and vigorous it is always gracious. Indeed, during the greater part of the year, the mere sensation of one's existence in such a climate is a pleasure and delight; and a trip through the district in the beginning of winter, or in the early spring time, is very enjoyable. But the cold in mid-winter is often great, and the frosts very severe. Then, the earlier fruits and flowers are nipped in the bud, the crops endangered, and the pools bound in ice. Then, too, and for months afterwards, the "Snowy Mountains" justify their name; for their summits are wreathed in snow; and I have often seen, from the hills eastward of the river, a dazzling line of glorious light thus formed — a line stretching for thirty or forty miles along the horizon — or, great patches of snow nestling amid the blue peaks. Sometimes, also, the peaks of the Tindera, Gingera, and Murrumbidgee ranges are decked in like manner. In no portion of the district is the presence of snow once or twice a year unusual (though it lies but for a short while in most places): and there is a more frequent and heavy snow fall about Kiandra than in any other part of the colony. The roads are at times impassable from this cause, both for man and beast. The Manaro Mercury of 23^rd July, 1870, says "the snow was so deep at Kiandra, last week, that the drifts would sometimes cover the haunches of the mail carrier's horse."

The following is from the same Journal of a week's later date:-" Cold, wintry days, with frosty nights and ice inches thick in the morning, is the sort of weather we are now favoured with at Cooma, At Nimitabel there have been snow and rain. At Seymour and Kiandra the weather has been tolerably fine, though extremely cold; snow drifts at the latter place are still dangerously deep. At Rhine Falls, about seven miles from Cooma, on the road to Seymour, the snow is twelve to eighteen inches in depth. Approaching Seymour, the road for twenty miles is hidden from view, the country being covered with snow; and in some places the trees are covered, the weight of the snow tearing off enormous branches; such a circumstance has not been known for the last fifteen years. At Jindabyne, there has been a heavy fall — in fact; nearly all the country is enveloped with snow. The heavy frosts retard the improvement of the roads." And upon the 3rd September this is the account given — "At night and early morning the air is very keen and cold, but when the sun comes out it is warm and pleasant. The snow still remains on the ranges as far below Cooma as Rose Valley, whilst above Cooma it lies to a considerable depth. The Kiandra mailman has at times to leave his horse at Denison, and take the mail to Kiandra on his back. This is not very pleasant work. We are informed the snow lies to a depth of fifteen feet at Kiandra, retarding mining operations and sadly interfering with business. The Snowy River will run very rapidly during the approaching summer, and the chances are that it will be uncrossable for a long time as soon as the thaw commences on the mountains." Nimitabel, which lies at the opposite side of the plateau, on a spur of the Coast Range, is, perhaps, the next most favoured spot by the deities of winter.

Nor are heavy mists and fogs altogether unknown; but the mid-day sun soon dispels them; and few sights can be more beautiful than that of the mountain tops and hill sides "breaking through their mantle grey." In summer the heat is occasionally intense; and then the traveller experiences its full force, as he journeys over the great and often shelterless "downs" which constitute a very large portion of Manaro: then it is that he longs for rest, and the shade of a friendly roof, or "the shadow of a great rock." And a dust-storm on those "downs” is the next thing to a sirocco. I have been caught in one, and hope I shall never experience another. But the evenings and nights are almost always cool and pleasant ; and the early mornings, even in the middle of summer, are fresh, genial, and exhilarating as the heart can desire ; whilst the unfortunates of Sydney and the coast are sweltering in the close, murky atmosphere of those places, the people of Manaro are enjoying their firesides, or breathing a pure, dry air, that sends roses to the cheek of youth, light to the maiden's eye, and vigour to the frame and step of manhood. Mosquitoes are virtually unknown; but as they have reached Goulburn recently, in full force, they may perhaps penetrate still further south.

The Snowy Mountains are visible from many points — a little south of Nimitabel (between it and the “Native Dog")— on the heights of Ambo (between "Nativo Dog" and Bibbenluke) — from various parts of Coolrington and Gegedzerick, Arable, and Woolway, Mafra, and Ironmongie stations, and on the hills between the Maclaughlin and Gunningdrah.

KIANDRA, a third township in Manaro, is situated on the Eucumbene, and is, I believe, the highest township in New South Wales, being 4640 feet above mean sea level: it is 90 miles distant from the Coast in a direct line. I have not, as yet, been able to visit this township, and I regret the circumstance; for though the place itself is fallen into decay since the comparative failure of the diggings, and is said to be a deserted-looking spot now (far different from when it was the scene of a busy, prosperous gold-field), the surrounding country is stated to be one of great interest and wild beauty. "When the squatters who, at the close of 1868, accompanied their starving sheep and cattle across the Eucombene, from the then bare and arid downs on the eastern side of it, had reached the mountain ranges that surround Kiandra, they found a land of grass, streams, and flowers, gladdening to their own hearts, and life giving to their poor beasts; a consequence of the heavy and long-resting snows that had fallen there during the summer: but I had forgotten the country westward of any portion of the Snowy River should form the subject of a separate Paper.

I may here mention, however, that a good many Chinamen are still to be found on the “Kiandra diggings," or the remnants of the same. From their greater industry, fewer wants, and parsimonious habits, they are able to "live", where most Europeans would starve. But they occasionally relieve the monotony of that life by intestine war. There are factions amongst them; and on the 22nd of December last (1870) they had a great fight. ''They had a mining dispute," says the local historian, "and when it was determined by the Court the parties returned to the camp. Then the losing side attacked the other savagely, using freely long-handled shovels. Chinese forks, and tomahawks, that inflicted some ugly wounds." A prosecution followed upon this, at which there was a considerable amount of " hard swearing" on both sides, over broken plates and lucifer matches; and rival interpreters having been imported into the case to protect the interests of the respective parties, they could scarcely be restrained from assaulting one another in open Court — and one of them soon afterwards murdered the other.

Nimitabel is a village on the eastern side of Manaro (as already intimated); and Adaminaby, (or Seymour), is a village on the opposite side" (upon the banks of the Snowy River). These villages are both of the usual Australian type-a smithy, a post-office, and a police barrack, with two public-houses for every store; and they therefore require no further description; but I may mention this of one of them; In July, 1869, a party of three gentlemen dined and slept at the principal Inn of Nimitabel, and cleaner rooms or a better dinner none of the three ever enjoyed, though one of them had seen life in many a land, and all three know what is meant by comfort and food fare. The house still retains its reputation.

Wild turkeys and kangaroo can be found in numbers at no great distance from the village, and its Inn would be capital quarters for a sportsman during the season. Delegate is another but very straggling village of Manaro; it is on the southern Border, close to the "dividing line;" and, being near to where gold is, should have a larger population, and be more thriving than most of the villages in this part of the world; but it is, in reality, the smallest, most scattered, and, least important of any. A few miles distant is the Chinese township of "Craigy," where four or five hundred Chinaman have congregated together, and devote their time to gold digging, opium smoking, and kindred pursuits.

There is but one road in general use from Micalago to Cooma — that by Colinton, Billilingera, and Cullen's Flat, and that is, for the most part, a good bush road, except in places where it is" rather rutty"; but from Cooma to Bombala there are two roads in general use — a direct one by the Rock Flat and Nimitabel, the "Native Dog" and Bibbenluke — and an indirect one by Bobundra, or Woolway, Duke's Springs, Sherwin's range, and Bibbenluke, or Gunningdrah. The former is the shorter by about ten miles, but is the rougher, and could spare many of the loose stones that now lie upon it; and the country through which it passes (being the vicinity of the Coast Ranges) is more broken, confined and bleak, wooded and sombre, than that of the other; but it is not so heavy, or incumbered with such patches of black mud, which are a sad hindrance to progress, and "a caution to travellers" in wet weather; for that is the mud of all muds — it clogs your wheels and clings to your horse's feet, or is pelted against your own in big cakes; and nothing but grim patience and steady hard pulling will carry you through it. On the other hand, the descent of the hillside that lead to the Maclaughlin River from Sherwin's Range (on the other line of road) is a somewhat formidable undertaking — one that requires good breeching to your horses, and a firm strong hand in the driver. But the prospect from the same hill sides is ample compensation for the difficulty of the descent.

I shall convey to others the best idea of that prospect by stating, that it always reminds me of these Abyssinian gorges which our soldiers looked down upon from the heights of Senape, as they marched to Magdala, and which pictorial art has rendered so familiar. And the finest view of the Snowy Mountains is to be had from the hills between Duke's Springs and Sherwin's Range.

It was in the Nimitabel district, and not far from the line of road which I have described as in the vicinity of the Coast range, that one of these sad incidents occurred which are characteristic of the Australian bush. A little boy, named John Brodie, the son of a poor woman, was along with an elder brother, and another lad, who wore drafting sheep, on the 26^th July, 1870. John was told to go up a hill, and "head the sheep" down to the yard. He did so, and was last seen on the hill top clapping his hands, and laughing in childish glee. He wore neither hat nor socks, but had on a pair of boots, and was accompanied by a pet dog which he had by a string. From that time nothing has been seen or heard of the child. Some hours after he went up the hill, his elder brother noticing his absence went to seek but could not find him. No other search was made for some time; and several searches which were then made, proved fruitless. "It is scarcely possible," adds the Newspaper which records the circumstance, "that the poor little fellow has survived the exposure he has been subjected to; the bitter cold we have lately had, and the child’s defenceless state, lead to the presumption that he had lain down somewhere and died, or that he has fallen into the Umaralla river, and been carried away." A letter which I have lately received from Cooma (7th May, '71), states, "That the boy has never been found, nor any trace of him discovered except tracks to the river."

There has been very little public money expended upon the roads of Manaro, compared at east with the expenditure upon our Hunter River and Northern roads; and a few bridges (one for example over the Bredbo — which is being erected —one over the Maclaughlin, beneath Sherwin’s range, and one over the Bombala, on the northern approach to the township) are greatly needed. Perhaps the Government is of opinion that the spirited people of Manaro should initiate the policy of making their own roads and erecting their own bridges — a policy which ought to be adopted by the whole Colony, for it would secure good roads and bridges everywhere, at a comparatively trifling cost, too, and be a check on the corruption of the existing system, under which our Representatives are frequently forced to barter their independence, and sell themselves for Government outlay in their respective districts.

By means of extensive Municipalities, such as the Police districts of Cooma and Bombala would constitute, established throughout the Colony, and assessing the house and landed property within them for the purpose of forming and repairing roads and bridges, either under the existing Municipalities Act, or, if necessary, an enlargement of its scope, and amendment of its provisions, the important benefits to which Ï have adverted (with others), could easily be secured. And, acting on the existing Law, a number of the householders of Bombala recently petitioned (July, 1870) for its incorporation, and that of a portion of the country adjacent, — an example which some, at least, of the people of Cooma are desirous of following. But the petitioners defeated their object by an unjust apportionment of the lands sought to be affected. It is to be hoped" they will be wiser the next time." Nor can I — in order to show the justice of, the necessity for, and the advantages that would arise from, a general and fair adoption of the Municipal system throughout the Colony, as well as indicating the probable mode by which that adoption will yet be secured — do better than quote the following passage from an address by Mr. William Forster to the electors of St. Leonards, Willoughby, in December, 1868:—

“It was a proof to him of their intelligence energy, and public spirit that they had taken the steps prescribed by Law and had so become a Municipality. He could not but remember, however, that in that, as the Law stood at present, they placed themselves in a position of some disadvantage, as contradistinguished from other places in the Colony, where the residents had not so organised themselves. There were many thousands of places better able to undertake Municipal duties, and to tax themselves for the good of their locality, but which did not follow their example. What was the consequence? Whilst they (the people of Willoughby) taxed themselves, other neighbourhoods more wealthy had refused to take these responsibilities which, they were all equitably bound to discharge. It was not fair that the people of Willoughby should be expected to tax themselves for their roads and their bridges, whilst other neighbourhoods remained recipients of grants of the Public money. One of the Members of the late House of Assembly was reported to have gone so far as to tell his constituents that he would not recommend them to form themselves into a Municipal corporation, because they could get more out of the Public funds by remaining unincorporated. This state of things ought to be done away with, and a change of the Law should be had, which would have the effect of making Municipal institutions more general throughout the country. The extension of such institutions not only led to a much greater development of Public works in every locality, but also tended to promote a corresponding amount of social and intellectual development.

He hoped that the time was coming when Municipalities would be made, to a great extent, compulsory throughout the Colony. He had always been of opinion that these institutions should be made compulsory. What he proposed was, so; to legislate that all the Colony should be divided into corporations, with the power of government for Municipal purposes. These powers such localities might either accept or reject; but if they refused to assume the power, no Public money should afterwards be spent upon their roads and bridges. The measure which he proposed some day to introduce into the House would carry out this idea, taking each Police district as a basis of operations.

The population of Manaro proper is about 6000, and the number of registered electors in the Electoral district is about 1800; of these, 943 voted at the Election hold in November, 1870. It returns one Representative.

The Aborigines of Manaro are now very few in number, whatever they may have been. One may travel through the district, time after time, without meeting with or hearing of any of them; and if the immense tracts that are now without a tree, and therefore without an oppossum, were always so, Manaro could never have supported a large native population, unless the habits of the kangaroo (another of their principal staples of food) have so largely altered that it formerly frequented the open downs which it will not now venture upon. In either case, the Aboriginal race will be almost extinct, both here and in other parts of the Colony, before twenty years have expired — a sad consequence of our superior civilization! I know, at the same time, of a remarkable proof of their intelligence, skill, and attachment as servants, when properly cared for, and properly instructed — as they have been in at least one homestead in Manaro. But I also know of another case, in which the moat assiduous care and the highest culture have been thrown away, and all the advantages of civilised life have been surrendered for “the bush," its blanket and gunyah.

I have alluded to improvement in the breed of their sheep and in the quality of wool, in the extension of fencing and in the production of English grasses, that are desirable on Manaro stations; but such improvements can only be effected by slow degrees, unless where there is a large capital at command. I know, too, that the present state of the Land laws and Land regulations is considered a core discouragement to the making of any improvements that can possibly be avoided. For instance, upon one station in Manaro various free selectors are now, by virtue or colour of their selections and pre-emptive rights, grazing 20,000 sheep over and above those which the owners of that station bought with it, at a great price, a few years back, or can now put upon it.

And it is believed that many free selectors throughout the colony have no honest intention, or thought of bettering their condition by honest means, but are influenced by dishonest or revengeful motives only, when free-selecting and claiming pre-emptive rights on the stations of squatters whom they mean to victimise. It is notorious, too, that very many other free selectors, influenced by right intentions and just motives, have shown such lamentable ignorance and improvidence in the miking of their selections — in choosing unsuitable localities for the purpose — as must involve certain misery and poverty upon themselves and their families, so long as they cling to those selections; whilst the squatters upon whom they select are equally harassed, and almost as much injured, as they would be were the selections made for a bad purpose. In fact, a station that has been largely selected upon, and is still likely to be largely selected upon, is not worth having at a gift. And it is a poor consolation to the Public that, since free selection was introduced, a good many of the squatters (they say, in self defence) have availed themselves of it, to secure "the eyes” or water-holes of the country, so far as they could by means of "dummies," and other blinds. But the spirit and tendency of the present laws and regulations are to favour the free selector at the expense not only of the squatter, but of every auction buyer desirous of obtaining an absolute interest in the soil Thus, the free selector, except on a few reserves, may take up land when, where, and how he pleases, deposit his 5s, without interest for three years, afterwards pay 5 per cent interest on the balance, which may remain due as long as he likes, and eventually acquire an absolute interest by swearing to residence and improvements. The auction buyer, on the other hand, has first to apply for a survey; after a long interval the land may perhaps be surveyed; after another long delay it is advertised for auction; and in three months more the land is at last brought to auction, and sold at a minimum price of £1 an acre, if (and if only) up to the very fall of the hammer it has not been pounced on by the free selector. In fact, it will never reach auction at all unless it be deemed unworthy of the regard of any selector. The inferior rejected lands are thus alone obtainable by auction, at the upset price of £1 (5s down, balance cash in three months), are bought by persons who cannot reside on the land, and who have consciences that will not allow them to make false declarations as to residence and improvements — declarations which, it is to be regretted, have been far from uncommon throughout the Colony. And the limiting of any one purchase or free selection to 320 acres in a country in which there are millions of acres of waste land is the height of folly, and leads to endless deceit. Men accomplish, in the names of infant children and others, what they cannot effect in their own. On the other hand, not only did the state of things which our present Land laws and regulations were intended to remedy call for redress, but the principle which they embody is correct enough. Before free selection was introduced, the great majority of the squatters were, and, except for it, would still be, in the occupation of far larger tracts of country than they really require, or could occupy. Again, since free selection, several millions of acres of that country have been profitably selected, and have afforded happy homes and prosperous homesteads to thousands of honest, hard-working, and intelligent families — for I am happy to believe that this class of free selectors is far more numerous than the other classes of them to whom I have above referred. It is the present reckless haphazard method of applying and working out the principle of our Land laws and regulations which have created, and are creating, so much ill blood, and have occasioned, and are occasioning, so much injury and wrong in every district in the Colony. The Equitable maxim, that "he who is first in time shall be deemed first in right," should not have been, and should not be, set aside, merely because some other person, coming in later, and influenced, perhaps, by nefarious motives, utter folly, or selfishness, wishes to interfere with the right of, and, by a bare application to the Government, thrust out, the earlier occupant, utterly regardless of the necessities of his position A reasonable case for the intrusion — of wants on the one hand, and super abundance on the other — should be made out to the satisfaction of a competent local Tribunal, be fore the existing right is defeated.

In like manner, when trespass disputes arise — and they must frequently arise between squatters and free selectors, or between free selectors and free selectors — they should be dealt with by the same Tribunal The decision of such disputes by litigation is tedious, harassing, and costly, and not very satisfactory, either. The settlement by arbitration of boundary questions is, in my opinion, a still worse, because an equally dilatory and costly, and a yet more uncertain remedy. And an appeal to the Minister, or Land Office, in Sydney, respecting the apportionment of land to squatters, free selectors, or other tenants or purchasers, is, I think, no remedy at all, or the worst remedy of all. It is absurd to suppose that any Officer or office; so placed, as he or it is, can adjudicate, with justice or expedition, upon the endless questions that arise respecting the tenure and occupancy of the lands of a Colony such as New South Wales — which is as big as the whole of France and of the United kingdom put together. Besides, the Minister is a Political officer, and, therefore, however upright and pure he may be, so exposed to suspicions that he ought not to be called upon to act as a Judge in any such matter. I humbly conceive that the most satisfactory method of dealing with our Land question difficulties, and the most effectual method of settling the disputes incident to them, would be, that all applications for free selections, and grazing rights, whether made by the poor man or by the rich — by the labourer or by the squatter — should be — not as at present — of almost absolute right, on lodging a deposit and signing a form at the Land Agent's, but should be made and heard in an open Court, sitting in the township nearest to the site of the land sought to be affected, and composed of the Police Magistrate, the Commissioner of Crown Lands, and the District or other disinterested Government surveyor acquainted with the lands; and that the decision on such applications should be made to depend not only upon the wants of the applicants, but also on the suitability of the lands, and their capability to meet the same, consistently with existing and necessary interests vested in other persons claiming from the Crown under similar applications, or under leaseholds, previously granted. And claims to sell by auction ought to be determined in like manner. The senseless cry that has been raised against capital; — that its owners would buy up the greater part of the country, without turning it to account, is too absurd — especially if all land in the hands of individuals were liable to a moderate assessment for Municipal purposes. It would be a blessing if the Crown or Government did not own an acre of land in the Colony, no matter who the purchasers, or what their object in buying — and no set of men, however wealthy, can hold much land that they do not utilise The same Tribunal should also determine all such other disputes as are above referred to. A similar scheme to that which I have here sketched has been recently proposed by the Minister for Lands in Victoria; and I have learned that "Mr. O'Shanassy advocates the establishment of a non-political and independent Tribunal to settle all disputes arising out of the working of the Victorian Land Act." (e) Melbourne letter of Sydney Morning Herald 9^th November 1869. The recent Irish land law is based on a similar principle.

I have written thus much upon our vexed Land question, because a fair solution of it, or the adoption of the means for that purpose, is of vital importance to Manaro — as well as to every other part of the Colony, and because there is much to be said on both sides of that question — a fact which the advocates of either interest generally ignore; and it is a great mistake to suppose that the country at large, or even the parties themselves, would be benefited by the crushing of either. "Live and let live" is a prudent as well as Christian maxim all the world over; ”and farmers and graziers are not natural enemies — the antagonism which we witness is the result of hasty and inconsiderate Legislation."

Perhaps I may be allowed to add, that the squatters of the Colony at large, have been singularly, regardless of their own interests, in neither — procuring a sufficient representation of those interests in Parliament; or even agreeing amongst themselves upon some basis for amended Legislation. They have been paralysed by the boldness of one able man, the author and uncompromising advocate of the present system. The feeble efforts which they have sometimes made towards union and common action have been miserable failures; and the expressed views of many of them are extremely selfish and narrow-minded. On the other hand, most of the proposals which have been put forward by free selecting Associations are so extravagant and unjust that no rational Legislature can ever be expected to adopt them. What would the honest men of both parties say (whatever may be the Tribunal for settling disputes between them) to the allowing of all lands (whether leased, free-selected, or sold) to bring the highest price that can be got for it, according to its real value (to be determined by public competition) — to the dispensing with residence and improvements as a condition precedent to the perfecting of a free selector's title — that an application to purchase should preclude free selection until day of sale — that a man might buy or free select as much land as he has money to pay for — and that no one should be allowed either to impound or to "go for trespass" whose boundary was not fenced; or distinctly marked.

Where the quality and other circumstances of the land of the Colony varies in every district, and in nearly every part of every district, a uniform minimum price — whether to the free selector, leaseholder, or auction purchaser — is a strange anomaly; and the main effects of insisting on residence and improvements are a deadening of the sense of truth throughout the length and breadth of the country, widespread perjury, and the exclusion of many good men from free selecting — while undefined boundaries are a mere trap; and it is utterly opposed both to justice and common sense, that an application to free-select should preclude all competition for the land from that moment, while an application to purchase secures nothing until the fall of the hammer.

Several parts of Manaro are highly auriferous, especially the neighbourhoods of Kiandra and Delegate, from each of which gold is procured both by "washing" and "quartz crushing." The number of "miners' rights" issued at the Kiandra Goldfields in the year 1867 was 291. There are “washings" on the Breddo andl Umeralla and on the Murrumbidgee and Snowy Rivers, and in some of the creeks falling into them. The quantity of gold received by escort from the Kiandra and Cooma parts of the district in 1869 was 4962 oz., value, £19,222-10s-6d; and in 1870, 4955 oz. Silver, lead, and copper are also said to abound in the vicinity of Kiandra and Delegate, and have been obtained from them, but in no great quantities so far. Victorian and Sydney capital is employed in developing some of the mines, but the management does not seem to have been very successful. It is to be hoped that more prosperous times are coming. A clever but somewhat prejudiced writer in the Bombala Times, of 16^th October, 1869, says:-"That eminent geologist, the Rev. W. B. Clarke, in reports to the Government, in the year 1851, describes this part of the Colony as being very rich in the various minerals. He enumerates gold, tin, argentiferous lead, copper, and other minerals, within the limits of our own locality. Why, then, as these minerals are known to exist, have not means been taken to develop them! Simply because our district has been considered a purely pastoral district, and our capitalists, in their blind ignorance of their own interests, considered that anything interfering with pastoral pursuits would be antagonistic to themselves. And almost all our Governments have been under the influence of the squatter's interest, which has always stood in hostile array to the mining interest — looking upon its progress as an invasion of its own assumed rights. Mining for the precious metals is precarious, because in their natural state they are unequally distributed. Our gold produce has diminished during the last two years, through the neglect of furnishing our gold fields with permanent water supplies, the absence of a liberal leasing system, obstructions to the competition of capital, mid the disastrous consequences of reckless speculation. We also require for the development of our mineral resources, and the attraction of foreign capitalists, a correct mineralogical and topographical chart of our gold fields, as well as a more accurate description of their physical structure and extent — which might have been obtained long ere this, had each Commissioner in charge of gold fields illustrated upon published maps of the Colony each workable field within his district, the wrought and unwrought portions, and the position and extent of our quartz veins and alluvial deposits, as well as furnished reliable information as to the probable supply of water that might be obtained by simple engineering works. And it has been a great misfortune to this Colony that the mining interest has never been properly represented. It should be placed under the administration of a responsible Minister. Other interests, less important, are so represented. What would Victoria be without her mines? The answer to this question shows how much the prosperity of a country depends upon an accurate knowledge of the character and extent of its mineral resources, and upon their proper development."

If it be true that the squatting interest of Monaro is opposed to its mining interest, it is indeed a "blind" and mistaken policy — so blind that one can scarcely credit the statement; and though the impediments assigned in the above extract to the extension of the latter interest are but too obvious, it is rather much to expect that any Government will "furnish the gold-fields with permanent water supplies." That should be the work of private enterprise. A valuable report upon every important matter relating to our goldfields and gold mining may be expected from the Commission appointed last year to inquire into the entire subject.

There is a seltzer spring at Rock-flat, about fifteen miles from Cooma, on the Nimitybel road. It gushes from the chinks of a rock-hewn wall, close by a great pile of rugged stones; the water is excellent, whether drank by itself or mixed with a little sherry or brandy. Accounts vary as, to whether it will "keep" — that is, retain its qualities. And whether the water itself can be retained in a bottle so as to be carried to a distance, is a question that has been thus discussed by a writer in the Sydney Morning Herald, in a courteous reference to this Article when it appeared in that Journal in its original form. "I am aware that at least one attempt to preserve this water failed, and have heard on good authority that several others met with a like result. Having occasion, some time ago, very hurriedly, to visit Sydney from Cooma, I determined to take a bottle of the water with me, for analysis; and, accordingly, I properly tilted, and securely fastened a bottle at the spring, when passing Rock-flat. The journey to Merimbula was rapidly performed, and the bottle safely deposited on board the "Hunter;" but (whether the motion by transit on horseback, or change of temperature, was the cause) it is certain that before the steamer had passed Montague Island, the bottle had burst, and the contents were lost. This was the first and only attempt of the kind made by me. 'Now, and then,' are very different, however; the iron-horse has brought all the world grandeur of the Australian Alps much nearer to Sydney, and I think it would be quite possible to bring a bottle to Sydney, via Goulburn. Having some knowledge of the mineral waters of North Britain, I believe that this spring at Rock-flat would be of great service to invalids. That benefit might be conferred; and why should poor humanity suffer while this source of health bubbles to waste continually in the wilderness?" I, myself, have carried a couple of bottles of the water to Sydney, and know that one of them retained its qualities for more than three months; the experiment is now being tried for a more lengthened period with the other. A story is told of some "wild spirits" having once brought a keg of "Jamaica" to the well, and drank seltzer and rum, shouted and danced, until they were half mad; that then one of them dashed the keg in pieces, and poured into the bubbling waters what remained of the rum — and that every one of the party afterwards carne to a "bad end " — a highly probable conclusion, if the other parts of the story be well founded. There is another, and, it is said, a still stronger seltzer spring in Manaro, upon Bombalo station.

Most of the garden fruits, flowers, and vegetables of Northern Europe grow to perfection in Manaro, though they sometimes suffer from the frosts. The apple, plum, gooseberry, and currant are particularly good. The peach is abundant, the strawberry rare; grapes do not ripen except in sheltered nooks. Finer melons or larger cabbages than these grown by the Chinamen of Cooma, I have never seen. ln some of the gardens (as at the homesteads of Little Plains, Maharatta, and Micalago) English flowers are cultivated with care and success. There does not appear to be a great variety of wild flowers eastward of the Snowy River — though a pleasant hour may be spent in gathering them there, — and men say that westward of the river is "Flora's own domain."

Manaro has very considerable attraction for the sportsman; duck and teal are very numerous. You can find them in nearly every creek, and lake and swamp. About five miles from Burnamah there are two large lakes, and you have only to "plant" yourself by one of them, and send a beater to the other, that you may bag a dozen birds. On the same lakes the stately swan is a frequent visitor; and you may see it, or hear its wild notes high in air, in many other parts of the district. Upon a small lake between Cooma and Bobundra, I counted twenty-two swans and sixty-five ducks, on the 10^th of March, 1871. A musk duck was lately shot in Woolway Creek. The bird is thus described by "A Voice from the Country" — "On the Murrumbidgee we occasionally see the musk duck, a peculiar-looking bird, with habits of a diver. A pouch extending below the lower mandible to the throat, and a crest at the back of the head, make it look disproportionally large; the body is long and scarcely raised above the water. The male is considerably larger than the female, but oven she must be twice the size of black duck. The cry is peculiar, and when frightened they dive, swimming under water. The plumage is grey and black-rather sombre. They prey on fish, and will kill a large one coming to the surface and beating and tossing the fish till it is conveniently adjusted for swallowing. The demand on young cod-fish must be something considerable; however, musk ducks are rare, and curious birds like these should not be wantonly destroyed." The melancholy cry of the curlew may be heard every night; and the spur-winged plover are to be met with in numbers every hour.

Wild turkeys are partial to the plains of Manaro. In summer the traveller is pretty certain to see almost every day this splendid bird stalking along, or feeding amid the tall grass. Morning and early evening are the most likely times to meet with it; for it prefers the timber or other shelter during the mid-day. I have flown seven of them within an hour, of an afternoon — three at one place, and four a little further on; and on another evening I observed fifteen turkeys, in twos and threes, between Duke's Springs and Woolway. A gentleman informs me that he once saw fourteen of them together, in the same paddock; another has told me of a still greater number. On the other hand, I have occasionally driven through parts of Manaro for two or three successive days, without seeing a turkey; while a friend — following me by a few hours — has seen twenty or thirty, and shot several. The turkey is a beautiful and noble-looking bird, as it stalks along with dainty step, its head erect, and white neck and head glistening in the sun. If you be on horseback, or (better still) seated in any vehicle, you may come within a few yards of it before it will rise — which it has some difficulty in doing — requiring a preliminary run, with outstretched wings, for the purpose. I have chased turkeys in a buggy, and been so close to them that a good shot could have struck them with a thrown stick before they took flight. A pair of ponies that I had:, used to enjoy the chase almost as much as I did. But turkeys will not allow you to approach nearly so close, or if they can help it, within any sort of range, if you be on foot — unless they think they have concealed themselves from your view. They do not rise to any great height while flying, and frequently circle about you, though at a safe distance. I have heard of one that "showed fight," in the brooding season, dashing at the head of a boy, and beating at him with, its wings, as he approached its nest, or where the eggs lay. The wild turkey attains a weight of sixteen, eighteen or twenty pounds, and is a famous table bird but not so good, I think, as the domestic turkey! The flesh of its breast is dark, and that of its thighs white; the egg is a dark green.

The Native Companion is also to be met with in Manaro. A favourite haunt is the banks of Murrumbidgee and Umeralla, not far from their point of junction and the adjoining flats between Billilingera and the Crossing-places of the Umeralla. On the 22^nd of June, 1870, I noticed three of them gliding about, a little above the Umeralla Bridge— solemn and stately. But they do not confine themselves to any particular locality, and may be sometimes seen soaring in mid-air. On the 26^th of the same month when travelling between the Bredbo and Colinton, I observed five of them flying at a great height — now in line, now wedge-like, and now in circular figure — and as they passed overhead, I could hear their short guttural cry — a signal, perhaps, to a missing mate. Next to the emu this is the largest bird found in Australia; and the emu is now very seldom met with in Manaro proper. I have never seen it there, though it is to be met with at times.

There are too many lambs in that part of Manaro not to be a favourite abode of the eagle hawk, and one may often observe a pair of them “poised o’er head” or watching for a dash. Its great mountains — the Tindera, and Gingera, the Murrumbidgee, Snowy and Coast Ranges — must also be the home of many a brown, black, or golden eagle; and the listless shepherd is sometimes startled from his reverie by the rush of a dark shadow, the helpless bleat of the prey, and the exulting yelp of the robber. The cockatoo is rarely, but the green parrot is frequently seen in Manaro; of pigeons I have only met with the wild blue and the bronze wing. It is said that snipe are plentiful in some parts of the district, and there are many "likely places" for them.

The kangaroo or wallaby would have no chance upon the open downs, and therefore carefully avoids them. It is only in the wooded glades or mountain sides they are got; but in early days, when only a few white men had settled in the district; both the emu and the kangaroo were found in the plains. An old friend has chased them both at Maharatta, riding through them, in and out, as fast as his horse could wheel. The native dog is almost extirpated in Manaro. The opossum is found wherever there are trees, so is the native bear, with its round body, and furry coat, whitish ears, square head, and placid look. At Bibbenluke, a bear came down from the hills one night, in November, 1869, and planted himself on the branches of a willow tree overhanging the Bombala River. All the next day he remained there at his ease, and took but little notice of the visitors whom he attracted The following morning be was gone. Some time previously another little fellow was found one morning perched upon a fence, within a couple of feet of the end of a watch dog's chain, the dog leaping and barking furiously at the intruder, and Master Bruin taking matters very quietly. The lady bear carries her young upon her back — the feet of the "child" digged into the wool of the mother, and it needs a hard tug to separate them. At the same station, the ornithorynchus may be seen swimming at his leisure, with bill outstretched, and pliant body "peering" above the water The creature is carefully "preserved'' here, and hence its unusual confidence. A very young one was dug from a hole in the garden bank of the river, and has been described as resembling "a big shrimp more than anything else."

My task — my labour of love — is now completed. "Where every door is open, and every proprietor a courteous host, it would be invidious to do more than acknowledge the general fact, with earnest feeling and proper gratitude. And if this brief sketch of Manaro shall make it better known, or induce its people to prize it the more, and to be thankful for the home that God has given them, — or if it shall rightly guide the wanderer's steps in search of Nature's glories, the bloom of health, or peaceful rest, the object of the writer will have been fully accomplished. A.McF.

The first ploughing match under the auspices of the Bombala Agricultural Society took place on the Bombala Common, on Wednesday last. The weather, for some few days previous, was anything but agreeable, and on Tuesday the committee had a very miserable and boisterous day to lay out the ground for the different competitors, - the wind blew cold from the south, accompanied with occasional showers of snow; but they did their work manfully, and on Wednesday morning, when the ploughmen made their appearance, they found all things in readiness for them.

Seven out of the ten competitors entered started, viz., Messrs J. Martin, W. SEIVERIGHT, T. Johnson, W. Fletchett, Joseph Groves, T. Armstrong, and J. McCoy. McCoy, after a few turns, gave up, finding that the plough he had borrowed did not turn out to his expectations. The others continued until the finish, and all completed the task allotted long before the hour named.

When all the ploughmen had finished, the gentlemen appointed as judges, viz., Messrs. A. McKeackhie, P. Campbell and H. Ingram, went upon the ground, for the purpose of deciding the merits of the different ploughing. The judges took considerable time and care in their examinations before coming to a decision. After careful inspection and due deliberation, the secretary was handed the result, for the purpose of announcing the same, which he did as follows: 1^st prize, Mr. W. SEIVEWRIGHT, Delegate; 2^nd prize Mr. J. Martin, Delegate; 3^rd prize Mr. T. Armstrong, Maharatta.

In writing these notes on old Monaro a feeling of sadness comes over me when I think that not only all these old hotel and storekeepers of the early sixties, but also all the old pastoralists of that time — nearly all of whom I was acquainted with, and very many of whom were intimate friends — are now all dead and gone. I will give a list of the different holdings and their, at that time, owners, starting from Michelago, and going to the Victorian border. Messrs. A. and D.Ryrie (Michelago, Burnima, and Maffra), J. Cosgrove, senr. (Billilingra), M. Harnett (Rosebrook), P. J. J. Clifford (Rose valley and Bredbo), W.Bradley (Coolringdon, Dangelong, Myalla, and Bibbenluke), J. Montague, senr. (Green Hills), O. Lampie (Wambrook), afterwards J. Hassell ; Mrs. Castles (Island Lake), afterwards J. Hassell ; Mrs. Talkinton and her sons, A., W. and H. Brook (Gegedzerick), A. Bloomfield (Coolamatong), A. Hamilton (Woolway), J . Pendergast, senr. (Cottage Creek), Mrs. C. Wright (Bobundra), S., J., and G. Rolfe and Thos. Clark (Ironmongie and Dog Kennel), J. Peters (Bungarby), J. Langhorne, senr. (The Junction), D. Driscol (Summer Hill), John Barry (Moonbah), J. Thompson (Cohbin), A. Crisp (Jimenbuen and Matong), Jas. and Jno. Thomas (Crewah), Mrs. Stewart (Tirvin), D. Ryrie (Burnima), Joseph D. Stafford and P. McCoy (Archer's Flat), J. Boucher (Bukalong), W. Graham (Gunningrah), D. Garnock, senr. (Mount Pleasant), J. and R. Kyle (Gallagher's Plain), H. T. Edwards, manager (Bibbenluke), Capt. Campbell (Bombala Station, now called Cambalang), D. Mackay, manager for Sir James Matherson (Aston), H. M. Joseph (Maharatta, E. Jonas manager), J. Duegood (Mila), Capt. Stevenson (Bondi), J. Nicholson (Little Plain), H. Nicholson (Dundundra), E. Nicholson (Mountain Top), Miss Campbell (Delegate Station, A. McKeachie manager, and Mount Cooper, Capt. McKeachie manager), D. Bell (SpringFlat), Mrs. Silk (Boco), W. Jardine (Curry Flat), Stuart Ryrie (Jindabyne), D. Ryrie (Kalkite), T. O'Mara.(Bobundra South), Mrs. Ecclestun, adjoining Wm. Rutherford (Marinumla), C. Woodhouse (Goose's Plain), Williams Bros. (Willis and Biddi), J. Hayden (Merambego), W. McKay (Wallendibby), D. Rankin (Brown's Camp), D. O'Hare (Corrowong and Tombong), J. Ryan (The Junction and Glenroy), H. Haydon (Haydon Park). J. Litchfield was only then just making a start with his first C.P. at Old Spring Well. Afterwards, by selecting and purchasing out others, he secured a large portion of the best of old Coolringdon leasehold. All the above named, besides many more not named in the Adaminaby neighbourhood, have now passed away, and also many of the next generation ; for instance, the three sons of Mr. John Cosgrove, the three sons of Mrs. Talkington (Arthur, William, and Henry Brooks), I cannot help, as I said before, a feeling of loneliness and sadness when I remember all the pleasant socialities I used to enjoy with many of this array of departed ones. But, on the other hand, it is a great pleasure, on looking around all over Monaro, to see the descendants of others whose parents in those early days were in a very humble position financially like myself, but have now worked their way up to independence and comfort, and some of whom are amongst the leading pastoralists and settlers on the land. I have given the names of nearly all the old leaseholders of olden days. I will now mention some of the first settlers under Sir John Robertson's Act of '61, selection before survey, and its subsequent very many amendments. Under the original Act the area allowed was altogether too small for a living area in a pastoral district, and this led to a great deal of abuse and dummyism to enable a man to get sufficient area to live on ; and many were hemmed in and surrounded by some of the station holders' dummies, and consequently ruined at the start. Any man with a big family to take up several blocks adjoining at the start was all right. Amongst the first to start under this Act about Cooma were Mr. James Litchfield, Mr. Devereux (father of Mr. James Devereux), Mr. Mooney, Messrs. Wm. and C. Blighton, G. Pendergast, John Welsh, Goodwin Bros., Ryal Bros., H. Stuart, Samuel and Thompson Myers, and many others too numerous to mention. Around Bombala and Delegate, Messrs John Murphy, Jigger Bulgarie, M. Snell, Jas., Jno. and Jos. Thomas, Jno. Groves, C. Trevanion, S. White, Thos. Armstrong, R. Stevensen, A. Brownlie, John Ingram, Beveridge senr., Richardson senr, J. and S. Corcoran, C. Sherrin, G. and T. Branch, C. Dorl, and others around Delegate. Delegate Station for many years was a goldreserve, and not open, but on the day of its being thrown open there was a general rush at the Land Office, and some of those who obtained land outside the station representative were D. Rankin, D. Campbell, R. Liddle, T. Oliver, T. Martin, G. Ivill, H. Hensleigh, Mrs. Biddulph, and others. First selections on Tombong were taken up by Campbell Bros., C. Stokes, A. H. Wright, John Ingram, James Walker, J. Manning, and J. Epplestun. Delegate River — M. Sharpe, J. Jones, M. Tierney. Craigie — W. Roberts, R. Roberts. J. Bruce, Rozensky senr., C. Robinson, W. Reed, J. Forrest, A. Gardener, J. Dester, and others.

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