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[Page 3]
of it, as he wrote down what I verbally said concerning it. I shall send you by the present conveyance a wide representation of it. I discovered a few new plants in the journey, but have to lament their not being all in flower. Two new Embothria, one of which was in bloom and another that I had not seen before in flower. I likewise obtained, besides some varieties of other species belonging to the genus, a Correa, which grows at the Grose, with green flowers, I found with red ones. A plant, seemingly a pultenda, with purple flowers; all the other species that I know have yellow ones. These are the choicest of the perfect specimens. As I found that a horse can be taken to the Cataract, I mean to go again on a botanical errand at a proper season, for when I was there it was in July, which may be called the severest part of the winter.
I have reason to believe that if a route was pursued from the Cataract in a southern direction for about 12 miles, several new plants would be picked up, but this could not be accomplished without a party, and of course would come expensive. What I mean by being expensive, is the difficulty and trouble in procuring the necessaries, and the objections that may be made on the part of a Governor, in thinking his theories equal to a traveller's experience, and being on too craving a plan, which I consider to be as wearisome, as under going the journey; for if the latter fatigues the body, it enlivens the mind, whereas the former causes not only fatigue, but a depression of spirits. I do not send any packages by this ship. Every thing is in confusion with me for want of paper. I shall send you another letter, for fear but this should should miscarry. If no ship leaves England before you receive this letter wherein I may get a passage, I trust you will recall me as early as an opportunity offers. My collection, though portable, is become [indecipherable]. The Garden which Mr Brown left is a considerable object.
I remain Sir you most
obedient and faithful servant
[signature of] George Caley
Parramatta
Sept 25 - 1807