15 March 28th. A conference at the hotel with Captain Teerink who is organizing the military party to accompany the expedition, and L. G. Toxopeus, entomologist and leader of the Buitenzorg section of the party. Teerink very efficient and thoroughly conversant with his job. The other stiff, aesthetic in appearance and very set in his ideas as to how expeditions should be conducted: his opinions being at variance with ours. Rest of day used up in preparing store lists and further discussion of plans. March 29th. With Rand, Richardson and Ramm made a quick trip to Buitenzorg by car and returned in time for a rather late lunch. Was very cordially received by the botanists, Van [illegible] Steelen and Van Steener. The latter very keen on exploratory work, particularly high mountains. Dammerman, director of all departments at Buitenzorg, was friendly but somewhat reserved and perhaps not so violently interested in the expedition. Also called on Meyr-Drees, a young forester who has been detailed to accompany the expedition: a man of small experience and large notions. Called on Mr. Tielens, Batavia manager and chief in Java of Internationale Crediet-en Handels-Vereeniging "Rotterdam" who will be acting as agents of the expedition. Collected from Quantas agents (Mr. Lowe of Maclaine, Watson & Co.) the 150 guilders poll tax I was obliged to deposit before entering the country. Also made an official call on Mr. H. Groenerveldt, chief immigration agent, and in the afternoon visited his home to see his orchid collection. Very keen bulk grower of not many species. Has some fine hybrids. March 30th. Flew to Soerabaia by Knilm regular daily service (Douglas DC-2 monoplane) to purchase stores, building materials and ramp timber for shipment to Hollandia. Was met at aerodrome by Mr. Velders, of Internationale, and after meeting Mr. Olafson, sub-manager (manager away at Batavia for a conference) at once started