Narrative of an Expedition into Central Australia Performed Under the Authority of Her Majesty's Government, During the Years 1844, 5, and 6, Together With A Notice of the Province of South Australia in 1847

"Narrative of an Expedition into Central Australia" by Charles Sturt recounts a mid-19th century exploration of the Australian continent. The story details Sturt's government-backed expedition from 1844-1846 to investigate and document the unknown areas of Central Australia and the nature of its rivers, especially the Darling and Murray. Early in the narrative, Sturt declares his commitment to record his experiences, despite hardships and the lack of resources found to support further colonization. He dedicates his work to Earl Grey, suggesting that his expedition was tied to colonial expansion. He thinks back on other Australian expeditions and talks about the strange features of Australian geography and climate, such as its rivers and recurring floods. The account also focuses on the preparations for the expedition, the makeup of his crew, and the importance of the native guides who helped them through dangerous and unexplored territory.