Historical Records of New South Wales. Vol. IV.

Hunter and King. 1800, 1801, 1802. Edited by F. M. Bladen. p. 391

Memorandum by Governor King ( King papers)

9th June 1801

Objects to which Governor King requests Col. Paterson. Lt. Grant, and the other gentlemen going in the Lady Nelson to Hunter's river will pay a particular attention.

The nature of the soil in general.

Whether the grounds are overflowed, either by high tides or by land floods

Whether the place may be thought healthy or unhealthy on account of the mud banks which I am told surround the sides of the river.

If the water is sweet and good

The size of the trees and whether there is plenty of timber for building, stone, limestone, or shells

How far it may be practicable for vessels to frequent that port with safety, the quantity of coals that may be procured there, the facility of procuring them, and what proportion of labour would be necessary to keep a supply ready for vessels going thither for that article. To assist the gentlemen in forming an idea on this head, a miner who has been there before will accompany them.

To examine where the most eligible place would be to form a settlement, both with respect to procuring coals and/or agricultural purposes

Philip Gidley King.