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296 a chart for them, showing the positions of those lands."

"That will be a step in the right direction," he said; "and if they have a prosperous voyage, I am in hopes of them returning during the following summer. We intend to send our unknown friends a cargo of gold by way of introduction," he continued.

"In that case," I answered, "it would be advisable not to dispose of it all at one port, but to call at all the Australian capitals, which they would find a very easy matter after reaching one, for there was much traffic between them, and I could promise the visitors a hearty reception from them all."

"That is satisfactory," he replied, rising. "I will now leave you to make preparations for the land expedition, and you may start at your convenience."

This was addressed to Yondozi and myself, who were left alone.

"Perhaps it would be as well to lose no time in the matter," said the Geographer, who was quite enthusiastic over the affair.

"I have partly made arrangements already, and all that we can do now is to fix the hour for departure."