THE ISLAND OF NEW GUINEA*

Abstract

THIS huge tropical island is only partially explored. Even the coasts are not yet thoroughly and accurately charted, and though there are few large areas of the vast hinterland entirely unknown, only the main topographical features have been named and located in an approximate position. Early records, too, need to be checked ; this was proved by one of the Papuan patrols, which found a large lake where the Arthur Gordon Range was supposed to be. The traveller is, therefore, always inadequately equipped for penetrating what is for the most part an exceptionally difficult type of country, whether it be mountains or swamps.