On the Discovery of a New River and Valley in the Vicinity of Milford Sound.

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 28, 1895, Page 724

2. “On the Discovery of a New River and Valley in the Vicinity of Milford Sound,” by D. Sutherland; communicated by Sir J. Hector. (Plate XXXVII.) Abstract. In 1884 Mr. Sutherland made some interesting geographical discoveries on the sea-coast south of Milford Sound (see vol. xvi., p. 454). He now announces a further discovery, and forwards a sketch-plan. The entrance to the valley is at the north end of Transit Beach. A river, the existence of which was not before suspected, was followed up for five miles, winding about in a flat valley about one mile wide. The stream is tidal for about two miles, and its banks at that point are 12ft. high, and composed of fine mud containing cockle-shells. The source of the river was discovered to he a waterfall issuing from a mountain-tarn, which was named Lake Ursula. The surrounding mountains are very precipitous, and formed of naked rock, in which quartz reefs and mineral lodes were seen, the latter giving indications of garnets, copper-and iron-pyrites, hæmatite, and magnetite. Sir James Hector described the country where the discovery was made. The river had not been marked on the maps of that part of the West Coast. 3. “On Dusky Sound,” by R. Henry; communicated by Sir J. Hector. (Transactions, p. 50.) Sir James Hector pointed out that there was ample room for explorations in this district, especially for those engaged in the study of natural history. The President agreed that this district was still a splendid field for the botanical collector. 4. Mr. Archibald Park, M.R.C.V.S., of Tasmania, by invitation, read a paper, and exhibited specimens, on “Animal and Vegetable Parasites associated, with the Production of Neoplasms in Cattle and Sheep.” [Transactions, p. 451.] Sir James Hector said that Mr. Park was acknowledged to be a great authority on these matters. It had given him great pleasure to visit Mr. Park's splendidly-appointed laboratory in Tasmania, and he took this opportunity of thanking him for having come forward so kindly for the purpose of laying the results of his researches before the meeting. Mr. Maskell also complimented Mr. Park on the valuable work he had done. Several questions were asked by members and answered by. Mr. Park. Professor Dendy, of Canterbury College, Christchurch, pointed out the important bearing of biological study from an economical point of view. The President having thanked Mr. Park for his interesting paper, invited members to view the objects, prepared by that gentleman, under the microscopes.