Page:A sketch of the physical structure of Australia.djvu/94

82 the only one having a permanent stream of water is the one which rises from the only mountain summits that are permanently covered with snow,—namely, the river Murray from the Australian Alps. The whole remaining coast of Australia, has now been carefully surveyed without the mouth of any large or important stream having been discovered.

In all the Australian colonies they have during the summer season occasional blasts of what is called the "hot wind." This is often a strong and steady breeze before which the trees bend and which blows up clouds of dust and sand, and sometimes of gritty particles large enough to strike with painful acuteness on the face. Instead of a cooling breeze, however, the breath of this wind is like the blast from a fiery furnace. The leaves of the trees seem to wither and shrink up under its scorching influence, things exposed to it, such as the handles of doors, rocks, &c. become so hot as to be almost painful to the grasp of the hand. The perspiration instantly dries upon the face, the lips parch, and the skin tingles. The sky though clear of clouds assumes a hazy aspect through which the sun glows like a copper ball. Doors and windows are instantly closed, and men and animals all seem to seek shelter from the painful influence of this scorching blast.