Page:Life and Adventures of William Buckley.djvu/159

 At this time a steam vessel arrived at Launceston with some prisoners bound to Port Phillip, and in her was Captain Fyans, who had been appointed Resident Magistrate at Geelong. I returned to the new colony in that vessel, having received great kindness at Launceston from Mr. Samms, the Under Sheriff and others, who gave me flour, and other things, as presents for myself, and to be given to the natives.

On my arrival at Melbourne, I was directed to accompany Captain Fyans to Geelong, he having a number of other persons with him. On crossing the Yawang Plains it came on to rain very heavily, and having been much occupied and exhausted before I left Melbourne, by my explanations to the friendly tribes of natives, and by my long march, I was compelled to rest by the way,—the party proceeded on without me.

I hesitated for some time whether I would follow the Captain in the morning, but at length determined to do so, and proceeded to Mr. Fisher's station, who on all occasions treated me, as had Messrs. Simpson and Wedge, with the greatest kindness and consideration; so much so, that I shall, through life, always be pleased to acknowledge the obligations I am under to them and others.

Having gone on to Geelong and remained there several days, I obtained permission to return to Melbourne by water; and, soon after my arrival, was sent in search of sheep, said to have been driven away by natives. In this way I was employed for several weeks, but finding that some persons were always