174 is found impossible to get them through the rapids, and other canoes made in which to continue the journey. The chief objective of the party seems to be exploration of the B or Sobge River, a large tributary (said to be the main Idenburg) heading at Mt. Juliana, and along which are likely-looking flats for gold. April 23rd Weather rainy, has been unsettled for several days, and the river up to 8 m. and rising fast. The Dornier T-15, flying to Bernhard Camp from Taneh Merah with stores, was unable to cross the range. The Grumman made two trips from Hollandia bringing radio-operator of the gold-mining party. A second prospecting party, under the leadership of Bartels and escorted by 32 soldiers, is making its way up the branch of the Digoel from Taneh Merah. Party of 26 Dyaks, 20 coolies, convicts, 32 soldiers, Europeans. Failing to make friendly contacts with the natives they have been meeting with many difficulties. Once they were besieged in camp for a month and had 2 Dyaks killed. Last night a tree fell at their #48 camp and killed two natives. Accord- ing to Horne, there is not one experienced man on the party. Grumman stayed here overnight. April 24th. Richardson moved out to Bernhard Camp and the 75 m. camp under the moun- tain abandoned. Work completed on a raft to carry my drying ovens and the steadily rising water putting out my fires, I moved this important part of my equipment. Water has been rising steadily since the 20th or thereabouts. The naval Dornier T-15 delivered cargo and some boys from Taneh Merah and returned thence in the morning. The Grumman flew to Taneh Merah before the Dornier arrived.