The Jenolan Caves: an Excursion into Australian Wonderland. By Samuel
Cook. (Eyre and Spottiswoode.)—The caves which Mr. Cook undertakes to describe in this volume belong to the marvels of the world. They are formed in a limestone "dyke," and are so numerous that, although more than twenty are mentioned, there are still many that remain unexplored. The first cave was dis- covered in 1841, but for about a quarter of a century the discovery excited little interest. At length the New South Wales Govern-
meat became aware of their value, and they are now carefully preserved for the benefit of the public. Mr. Cook states that the present Curator, Mr. Wilson, was the first enthusiastic explorer of the caves, and that ho is still making fresh discoveries, which need no small energy and courage. The beauty of the "night eaves," which will shortly be illuminated by electricity, is said to baffle description, and according tnone Visitor, whom Mr. Cook is honest enough to quote, "the man who would attempt to describe these caves is a fool." It is true that no letterpress and no photographs
can give a vivid impression of floors covered with coral and stalactites white as virgin snow, of exquisite trees and flowers
represented in limestone, of walls adorned with delicate and glittering tracery, and gigantic pillars of unsullied whiteness ; but Mr. Cook deserves at least the credit of having done his best
to describe the indescribable, and the book should not only attract curious readers, but curious travellers also. We may add that the caves were known as the "Fish River," or as the " Binda Caves," until the name was officially changed in 1884. The journey by train from Sydney is about 120 miles, after which the tourist has about 35 miles to travel on horseback or by coach before reaching the Cave House, which, although at the foot of a steep declivity,. is nearly 2,500 ft. above sea-level.
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