distant could conduct us to Mt Macedon which he had
ascended we were conducted to his Station on an elevated
plain amongst the Hills by a circuitous and difficult route
our guide having a very imperfect knowledge of the Country.
Distance 7 miles. Upon this plain & amongst these Hills were
found excellent herbage & frequent water holes - affording
good pasture for Horses Sheep or Cattle.

March 19.

Sunday. Halted. Read Prayers - in the afternoon rode out
amongst the Hills and found a good line for wheeled
Carriages to Sams's Station distance about 4 miles. The views
from the Hills near Aitken's Station extensive & beautiful.

March 20th –

Proceeded to Mt Macedon and found the distance from
Aitkens Station about 12 miles. Route led thro’ good Sheep
and Cattle pasture great part of it being but indifferently
watered, near the Hill is a large Swamp from which
issues the Western branch of the Salt River. Further north
a fine spring of delicious water forms the head of the River
Campaspe which flows round the Hill to the North East.
Ascended the Hill about 1500 feet of very difficult ground,
underwood, shrubs, fallen Trees and loose stones
adding to the difficulty of the steepness of the Mountain's side.
Large timber Trees of the Gum family, Mountain Ash &
other kinds cover the sides and top, so much so that it is
not easy to obtain views of the surrounding Country. Capt King
however succeeded in fixing several points and upon
descending a little from the summit ascertained those
which had been noticed by Major Mitchell and verified
his observations. Descended & returned to the Camp
Mr Aitken's Station.

March 21

Moved to Mr Sams’ on our return to Melbourne. Here
crossed one branch of the Salt R. by a good ford and the
second about three miles off Mr Moore's Sheep Yard. The
Plains from hence and to the Head of Gellibrand's Creek
dry & bleak and of rather coarse herbage. Passed down the valley of
Gellibrand's Creek (which is a good chain of Ponds) but the
grass burned to the roots and there appeared but little
food for Sheep tho’ in wet seasons it is probable the
pasture is good. From hence to the Geelong road &
into Melbourne. Distance from Aitkens Station 30 miles.