If we strike a line to the N.W. from Sydney to Wellington Valley, we shall find that little change takes place in the geological features of the country.

We moved leisurely towards Mount Foster, on the 22nd, and arrived opposite to it a little before sunset.

On the subject of emigration, it is not my intention to dwell at any length.

Mount Harris is of basaltic formation, but I could not observe any columnar regularity in it, although large blocks are exposed above the ground. The rock is extremely hard and sonorous.

The staple of our Australian colonies, but more particularly of New South Wales, the climate and the soil of which are peculiarly suited to its production, - is fine wool.

Farming implements are as cheap in Sydney as in England.

The year 1826 was remarkable for the commencement of one of those fearful droughts to which we have reason to believe the climate of New South Wales is periodically subject.

In a colony constituted like that of New South Wales, the proportion of crime must of course be great.

if what is true brings us sorrow, / if what sorrow brings is truth

We can only hope to live a meaningful life by serving as earnest witnesses to life’s tragic beauty.

Any man who concentrates his energies totally on one passion is, by definition, someone who hurts the people close to him.

My mother and I were like two continents moving slowly but inexorably apart; my father, the bridge builder, constantly extending the fragile edifice he had constructed to connect us.

I like to think that we've got a plan, so let's stick to it. That said, once we've stuck to it, we're allowed as much improvisation as anyone cares to indulge themselves in.

Unbuttered toast is a substance half complete, and to be forced to eat it in that state is necessarily to feel deprived.

What news? There's nothing to tell. I'm a nun.

Victims. Victims of a transitional period of morality. That is what we both certainly are.

Musically, I always allow myself to jump off of cliffs. At least that's what it feels like to me. Whether that's what it actually sounds like might depend on what the listener brings to the songs.

I could meet dreadful people and end up seeing the world through their eyes, seeing their frailties, their needs.