Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.3)

Feb. 1836. mount Wellington. 535 examining the geological structure of the immediate neigh- bourhood. The main points of interest consist, first in the presence of certain basaltic rocks which evidently have flowed as lava ; secondly, in some great unstratified masses of green- stone ; thirdly, in proofs of an exceedingly small rise of the land ; fourthly, in some ancient fossiliferous strata, proba1)ly of the age of the Silurian system of Europe ; and lastly, in a a solitary and superficial patch of yellowish limestone or travertin, which contains numerous impressions of leaves of trees and plants, not now existing. It is not improbable that this one small qviarry, includes the only remaining record of the vegetation of Van Diemen's Land during one former epoch. Mr. Frankland, the surveyor-general, was kind enough to give me much interesting information, and to take me several pleasant rides. The climate here is damper than in New South Wales, and hence the land is more fertile. Agricul- ture flourishes here : the cultivated fields looked well, and the gardens abounded with thriving vegetables and fruit-trees. Some of the farm-houses, situated in retired spots, had a very tempting appearance. The general aspect of the vegetation is similar to that of Australia : perhaps it is a little more green and cheerful ; and the pasture between the trees rather more abundant. One day I took a long walk on the side of the bay opposite to the town : I crossed in a steam-boat, two of which are constantly plying backwards and forwards. The machinery of one of these vessels was entirely manufactured in this colony, which, from its very foundation then num- bered only three- and- thirty years ! If I was obliged to emigrate, I think I would choose this place in preference to Sydney : the climate and aspect of the country alone would almost determine me. Moreover, I suspect society is here on a pleasanter footing; certainly it is free from the contami- nation of rich convicts, and the dissensions consequent on the existence of two classes of wealthy residents. The colony appeared extremely well governed ; the streets at night being kept even more orderly than those of an English town. On another day I ascended Mount Wellington ; I took