The secret of the Australian desert

by Ernest Favenc

"The Secret of the Australian Desert" by Ernest Favenc is a historical fiction narrative set during the late 19th century. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of the explorer Ludwig Leichhardt and his party while attempting to traverse the uncharted heart of Australia in the mid-1800s. Favenc weaves an adventure tale that brings together a group of contemporary explorers as they embark on a quest to uncover the fate of Leichhardt, driven by a mix of curiosity and the allure of the unknown. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to a scorching November evening in central Australia, where three men—Morton, his young cousin Charlie, and their friend Brown—sit on the porch of a cattle station. They discuss the legend of a "burning mountain" rumored to exist nearby, inspiring them to embark on an expedition to explore its truth and possibly uncover the remains of Leichhardt's lost expedition. The opening sets the stage for their adventure as they prepare for their journey into the harsh, unforgiving landscape filled with scrubs and sandy ridges, expressing their hopes, fears, and the camaraderie that will guide them through the challenges ahead. Throughout this early portion, hints of mystical and ominous elements foreshadow challenges beyond just the treacherous terrain they must navigate.