for shipment to the U. S. A. and preparing for further field work. /49 Plane made one trip to Idenburg with stores on the 31st, bringing Versteegh, repatriated soldiers and convicts to Hollandia on the return flight. Another flight made on January 2, on which van Arcken returned to the Idenburg and Teerink came to Hollandia. Archbold, Richardson and myself were guests at a large dinner on board the mail steamer "van Imhoff" on New Year's Eve. Dutch members of the expedition and the elite of Hollandia there as well. Tuesday, January 3rd, 1939. Plane made two flights to the Idenburg, Rand, Richardson and self on first flight, and Toxopeus, Huls and Versteegh on the second. Beautiful flying weather experienced until we reached the edge of the Idenburg Plain (Meervlakte), which was completely under low clouds to the foot of the mountains. Clouds so low over the trees that we were unable to land for nearly an hour, but finally got under them on the third attempt. River very high--the river 6-8 m. above July level, and most of the camp and vegetable garden under flood. A rise of another 12-15 inches would submerge the little remaining dry ground. Wednesday, January 4th, 1939. A busy day organizing stores and collecting supplies. We expect to be away from the Idenburg Base for a term of 3 1/2 - 4 months, working mountain camps, most of them still to be chosen, in the adjoining mountains. River continues to rise slowly. Several thunderstorms in the vicinity and generally a dull threatening day: a distinct earth tremor felt shortly after 5 PM