Journal written on an expedition to Queensland Islands, in particular Lizard Island, looking at specimens of flora and fauna, especially beche de mer. The voyage was on the ship Julia Percy. While sailing, the journal consists of information about the winds, speed, weather, position, land and fish and birds seen. While on land the author writes primarily about the zoological and botanical specimens. He also refers to natives and their appearance and their relationship with the visitors. He refers to the earlier voyages of the Fly and Rattlesnake. He mentions that he is writing a copy of the proceedings of the expedition for the Sydney Morning Herald in the hope of getting a few pounds.
