LETTER FROM MR HOWITT.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 311, 18 December 1862, Page 6

LETTER FROM MR HOWITT.

(From the Argus Dee. 10.) The following letter from Mr Howitt was received by the secretary of the .Exploration Committee yesterday :—

"Angipena, S A,, Nov. 21. " Sir ■ I have the honour to inform you that I expect to leave this place to-morrow, should some horses which have strayed be found in time. The despatch mentioned in the telegram received through the South Australian Government as having been sent by sailing vessel has not come to hand.

" During the time the horses were spelling near Blanchawater, I took the opportunity of investigating the possibility of a direct route to the Darling, via Start's Depot (Proviuence Creek) Several gentlemen resident in the district aecompaniel me. The country is not practicable, excepting immediately after heavy general rains. Finding the Grey Range suffering from a prolonged drought, I returned without going on to Stuvt's Depot. ■ " 1 have effected sales of a number of horses, and of some of the equipment at satisfactory prices. " On reaching Clare, I pi-opose proceeding to Adelaide in advance of the party, to make arrangements for the sale of the horses and equipment. '• The camels in Mr Aitkin's eharge will part company with us at Clare or Kapunda, en route for the Wimmeia. The road they will take will depend on information to he obtained hereafter.

" On reaching Adelaide, I propose having a case, covere.l with black c/oth, made, to contain the remains on their passage round to Melbourne. Should the committee have other views, I should be glad to hear on the subject. " I have the honor to be, Sir, " Your most obedient servant, " A. W. Howitt, Leader V. E. Party. "The Hon John Macadam, M.D., Hon Secretary to the Exploration Committee, Melbourne." The following telegram was received in Melbourne last night :—" Adelaide. 9th December. To the Hon J. Macadam, Esq., M.D.—Arrive! in Adelaide last night. The remains will be brought in on 11th December, and are to he met by the Mayor and others on their way through Adelaide. They will remain at the Mounted Police Barracks until removed for Melbourne. We shall not be able to leave until after the 17th A. W. Howitt, Loader Victorian Exploration Party."