An Account of the English Colony in New South Wales, Volume 1: With Remarks on the Dispositions, Customs, Manners, Etc. of The; Native Inhabitants of That Country. to Which Are Added, Some; Particulars of New Zealand; Compiled, By Permission, From; The Mss. of Lieutenant-Governor King. in Modern English

This is a modern-English version of An Account of the English Colony in New South Wales, Volume 1: With Remarks on the Dispositions, Customs, Manners, Etc. of The; Native Inhabitants of That Country. to Which Are Added, Some; Particulars of New Zealand; Compiled, By Permission, From; The Mss. of Lieutenant-Governor King., originally written by Collins, David, King, Philip Gidley. It has been thoroughly updated, including changes to sentence structure, words, spelling, and grammar—to ensure clarity for contemporary readers, while preserving the original spirit and nuance. If you click on a paragraph, you will see the original text that we modified, and you can toggle between the two versions.

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AN ACCOUNT OF THE ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW SOUTH WALES:
WITH
REMARKS ON THE DISPOSITIONS, CUSTOMS, MANNERS, etc. OF THE NATIVE INHABITANTS OF THAT COUNTRY.
TO WHICH ARE ADDED,
SOME PARTICULARS OF NEW ZEALAND;
COMPILED, BY PERMISSION,
FROM THE MSS. OF LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR KING.

By DAVID COLLINS, Esquire,

LATE JUDGE ADVOCATE AND SECRETARY OF THE COLONY.

ILLUSTRATED BY ENGRAVINGS.

VOLUME I.

Many might be saved who now suffer an ignominious and an early death; and many might be so much purified in the furnace of punishment and adversity, as to become the ornaments of that society of which they had formerly been the bane. The vices of mankind must frequently require the severity of justice; but a wise State will direct that severity to the greatest moral and political good. ANON.

Many people could be saved from an undignified and early death; and many could be so purified through punishment and hardship that they become valuable members of the society they once harmed. The wrongdoings of humanity often need the strong hand of justice; however, a wise government will channel that justice toward achieving the greatest moral and political good. ANON.

LONDON: PRINTED FOR T. CADELL JUN. AND W. DAVIES, IN THE STRAND.

1798.

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THOMAS LORD VISCOUNT SYDNEY
One of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council,
Chief Justice in Eyre South of Trent,
A Governor of the Charter-house,
and a Vice-President of the Asylum

MY LORD,

The honour that your Lordship has done me, in permitting this volume to go forth into the world under the sanction of your name, demands my warmest acknowledgments. I can only wish that the Work had been more worthy of its patron.

The honor you've given me by allowing this book to be published under your name deserves my deepest gratitude. I can only wish that the work had been more deserving of your support.

The originator of the plan of colonization for New South Wales was too conspicuous a character to be overlooked by the narrator of its rise and progress. The benevolent mind of your Lordship led you to conceive this method of redeeming many lives that might be forfeit to the offended laws; but which, being preserved, under salutary regulations, might afterward become useful to society: and to your patriotism the plan presented a prospect of commercial and political advantage. The following pages will, it is hoped, serve to evince, with how much wisdom the measure was suggested and conducted; with what beneficial effects its progress has been attended; and what future benefits the parent country may with confidence anticipate.

The person who came up with the colonization plan for New South Wales was such a prominent figure that the storyteller couldn't ignore their role in its development. Your Lordship’s kind thinking inspired you to create this approach to saving many lives that could otherwise be lost to the broken laws; but by preserving them under helpful rules, they might eventually contribute positively to society. Your patriotism also saw this plan as a way to provide commercial and political benefits. It’s hoped that the following pages will show how wisely this initiative was proposed and carried out, what positive effects it has already had, and what future advantages the home country can confidently look forward to.

That your Lordship may long live to enjoy those grateful reflections which a sense of having advanced the public welfare must be presumed to excite; and that our most gracious sovereign, the father of his people, may long, very long reign over these kingdoms, and continue to be served by statesmen of tried talents and integrity, is the earnest prayer of,

That you may have many years to enjoy the satisfaction that comes from knowing you've contributed to the public good; and that our very gracious sovereign, the father of his people, may reign for a long, long time over these kingdoms, continuing to be supported by skilled and honest statesmen, is the heartfelt wish of,

MY LORD,
Your Lordship's much obliged,
and most devoted servant,
DAVID COLLINS
Poland Street,
May 25, 1798

MY LORD,
I'm very grateful for your support,
and I remain your most devoted servant,
DAVID COLLINS
Poland Street,
May 25, 1798

Chart of the three harbours of Botany Bay, Port Jackson, and Broken Bay, showing the cultivated grounds in and about the different settlements, with the course of the Rivers Hawkesbury and Nepean, and the situation of the wild cattle to the westward of the last-mentioned river.

Map of the three harbors of Botany Bay, Port Jackson, and Broken Bay, highlighting the cultivated areas in and around the various settlements, along with the paths of the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers, and the location of the wild cattle to the west of the Nepean River.

PREFACE

To the public the following work is with respectful deference submitted by its author, who trusts that it will be found to comprise much information interesting in its nature, and that has not been anticipated by any former productions on the same subject. If he should be thought to have been sometimes too minute in his detail, he hopes it will be considered, that the transactions here recorded were penned as they occurred, with the feelings that at the moment they naturally excited in the mind; and that circumstances which, to an indifferent reader, may appear trivial, to a spectator and participant seem often of importance. To the design of this work (which was, to furnish a complete record of the transactions of the colony from its foundation), accuracy and a degree of minuteness in detail seemed essential; and on reviewing his manuscript, the author saw little that, consistently with his plan, he could persuade himself to suppress.

To the public, the following work is respectfully submitted by its author, who hopes that it will provide a lot of interesting information that hasn't been covered by previous works on the same topic. If he seems to go into too much detail at times, he asks that it be understood that the events recorded here were written as they happened, capturing the feelings they naturally stirred at the time; and that things which may seem trivial to an indifferent reader often hold significant importance for those who witnessed and participated in them. The aim of this work (which is to offer a complete account of the colony's history from its foundation) required accuracy and a certain level of detail, and upon reviewing his manuscript, the author found little that he could justify leaving out, consistent with his plan.

For his labours he claims no credit beyond what may be due to the strictest fidelity in his narrative. It was not a romance that he had to give to the world; nor has he gone out of the track that actual circumstances prepared for him, to furnish food for sickly minds, by fictitious relations of adventures that never happened, but which are by a certain description of readers perused with avidity, and not unfrequently considered as the only passages deserving of notice.

For his efforts, he takes no credit beyond what is due to his unwavering commitment to telling the truth. He wasn't trying to present a fictional story to the world; nor did he stray from the path that real events laid out for him, just to satisfy the fantasies of those who are eager for made-up tales of adventures that never occurred, which some readers often consume with enthusiasm and frequently regard as the only parts worth paying attention to.

Though to a work of this nature a style ornamental and luxuriant would have been evidently inapplicable, yet the author has not been wholly inattentive to this particular, but has endeavoured to temper the dry and formal manner of the mere journalist, with something of the historian's ease. Long sequestered, however, from literary society, and from convenient access to books, he had no other models than those which memory could supply; and therefore does not presume to think his volume proof against the rigid censor: but to liberal criticism he submits, with the confidence of a man conscious of having neither negligence nor presumption to impute to himself. He wrote to beguile the tedium of many a heavy hour; and when he wrote looked not beyond the satisfaction which at some future period might be afforded to a few friends, as well as to his own mind, by a review of those hardships which in common with his colleagues he had endured and overcome; hardships which in some degree he supposes to be inseparable from the first establishment of any colony; but to which, from the peculiar circumstances and description of the settlers in this instance, were attached additional difficulties.

Although a decorative and lavish style would clearly be unsuitable for a work like this, the author has tried to balance the dry and formal tone of a typical journalist with a bit of the historian's relaxed approach. However, having been away from literary circles for a long time and lacking easy access to books, he relied only on the examples his memory could provide. He doesn’t claim that his work is immune to harsh criticism; instead, he offers it up with the confidence of someone who knows he has neither been careless nor arrogant. He wrote to pass the time during many dull hours, and while writing, he didn’t think about anything beyond the satisfaction that might come later to a few friends and to himself from reflecting on the struggles he, along with his colleagues, faced and overcame. He believes that these struggles are somewhat inevitable when starting any colony, but in this case, they were made even more challenging due to the unique circumstances and background of the settlers involved.

In the progress of his not unpleasing task, the author began to think that his labours might prove interesting beyond the small circle of his private friends; that some account of the gradual reformation of such flagitious characters as had by many (and those not illiberal) persons in this country been considered as past the probability of amendment, might be not unacceptable to the benevolent part of mankind, but might even tend to cherish the seeds of virtue, and to open new streams from the pure fountain of mercy*.

In the course of his enjoyable work, the author started to wonder if his efforts might be interesting beyond his small group of friends; that a description of the gradual improvement of such notorious characters, who many (including those not lacking in generosity) in this country had deemed beyond hope for change, might be well-received by kind-hearted people. It could even help nurture the seeds of virtue and open new pathways from the pure source of mercy.

[* "It often happens," says Dr. Johnson, "that in the loose and thoughtless and dissipated, there is a secret radical worth, which may shoot out by proper cultivation; that the spark of heaven, though dimmed and obstructed, is yet not extinguished, but may, by the breath of counsel and exhortation, be kindled into flame . . .
"Let none too hastily conclude that all goodness is lost, though it may for a time be clouded and overwhelmed; for most minds are the slaves of external circumstances, and conform to any hand that undertakes to mould them; roll down any torrent of custom in which they happen to be caught; or bend to any importunity that bears hard against them."
Rambler, No. 70.]

[* "It often happens," says Dr. Johnson, "that among those who are careless, thoughtless, and indulgent, there is a hidden potential for goodness that can emerge with the right support; the spark of divinity, though diminished and obstructed, is not completely gone, but can be reignited by guidance and encouragement . . .
"Let’s not assume too quickly that all goodness is lost, even if it seems concealed or overwhelmed for a period; most people are impacted by their environment and tend to adapt to whoever tries to influence them; they get carried away by any strong trend they encounter; or they give in to any pressure that weighs upon them."
Rambler, No. 70.]

Nor was he without hope, that through the humble medium of this history, the untutored savage, emerging from darkness and barbarism, might find additional friends among the better-informed members of civilized society.

Nor was he without hope that, through the simple means of this story, the uneducated savage, coming out of darkness and barbarism, might find more friends among the more knowledgeable members of civilized society.

With these impressions, therefore, he felt it a sort of duty to offer his book to the world; and should the objects alluded to be in any degree promoted by it, he shall consider its publication as the most fortunate circumstance of his life.

With these thoughts in mind, he felt it was his responsibility to share his book with the world; and if the issues mentioned are in any way advanced by it, he will view its publication as the luckiest event of his life.

Occurrences such as he has had to relate are not often presented to the public; they do not, indeed, often happen. It is not, perhaps, once in a century that colonies are established in the most remote parts of the habitable globe; and it is seldom that men are found existing perfectly in a state of nature. When such circumstances do occur, curiosity, and still more laudable sentiments, must be excited. The gratification even of curiosity alone might have formed a sufficient apology for the author; but he has seen too much of virtue even among the vicious to be indifferent to the sufferings, or backward in promoting the felicities of human nature.

Occurrences like the ones he has to share aren’t often seen by the public; they don’t really happen very often. It’s not, perhaps, more than once in a hundred years that colonies are set up in the farthest corners of the livable world; and it’s rare to find people living entirely in a state of nature. When such situations do arise, both curiosity and more commendable feelings must be stirred. The satisfaction of mere curiosity alone could have been a good enough reason for the author, but he has witnessed too much goodness even among the immoral to be indifferent to the suffering or hesitant to promote the happiness of humanity.

A few words, he hopes, may be allowed him respecting the colony itself, for which he acknowledges what, he trusts, will be considered as at least an excusable partiality. He bore his share of the distresses and calamities which it suffered; and at his departure, in the ninth year of its growth, with pleasure saw it wear an aspect of ease and comfort that seemed to bid defiance to future difficulties. The hardships which it sustained were certainly attributable to mischance, not to misconduct. The Crown was fortunate in the selection of its governors, not less with respect to the gentlemen who were sent out expressly in that capacity, than in those on whom the temporary administration occasionally devolved.

A few words, he hopes, may be allowed regarding the colony itself, for which he acknowledges what he trusts will be seen as at least an excusable bias. He shared in the struggles and hardships it faced; and when he left, in the ninth year of its development, he was pleased to see it looking comfortable and thriving, seemingly ready to take on future challenges. The difficulties it endured were definitely due to bad luck, not bad management. The Crown was lucky in choosing its governors, both with the gentlemen sent out specifically for that role and those who occasionally took on temporary leadership.

Under Governor Hunter, who at present presides there, the resources of the country and the energies of the colonists will assuredly be called forth. The intelligence, discretion, and perseverance of that officer will be zealously applied to discover and fix every local advantage. His well-known humanity will not fall to secure the savage islander from injury or mortification; reconcile him to the restraints, and induce him to participate in the enjoyments, of civilized society; and instruct him to appreciate justly the blessings of rational freedom, whose salutary restrictions are not less conducive to individual benefit than to the general weal.

Under Governor Hunter, who is currently in charge, the country's resources and the energy of the colonists will definitely be put to use. His intelligence, judgment, and determination will be enthusiastically directed towards identifying and utilizing every local advantage. His well-known compassion will ensure that the native islanders are protected from harm and humiliation; he will help them adjust to the rules and encourage them to take part in the benefits of civilized society; and he will teach them to recognize the true value of rational freedom, which has beneficial limitations that contribute to both individual well-being and the greater good.

With respect to the resources of the settlement, there can be little doubt, that at this moment it is able to support itself in the article of grain; and the wild stock of cattle to the westward of the Nepean will soon render it independent on this country in the article of animal food. As to its utility, beside the circumstance of its freeing the mother country from the depraved branches of her offspring, in some instances reforming their dispositions, and in all cases rendering their labour and talents conducive to the public good, it may prove a valuable nursery to our East India possessions for soldiers and seamen.

With regard to the resources of the settlement, there’s no doubt that right now it can sustain itself with grain, and the wild cattle stock to the west of the Nepean will soon make it self-sufficient in terms of meat. As for its usefulness, in addition to helping the mother country get rid of the problematic members of its society, occasionally reforming their behavior, and in every case making their work and skills beneficial to the public good, it could also serve as a valuable training ground for our East India territories for soldiers and sailors.

If, beside all this, a whale fishery should be established, another great benefit may accrue to the parent country from the coast of New South Wales.

If a whale fishery is set up alongside all this, the mother country could gain another significant benefit from the coast of New South Wales.

The island, moreover, abounds with fine timber in every respect adapted to the purposes of ship-building: iron too it possesses in abundance. Coal has been found there, and some veins of copper; and however inconsiderable the quantity of these articles that has been hitherto found, yet the proof of their existence will naturally lead to farther research, and most probably terminate in complete success.

The island also has plenty of good-quality timber suitable for shipbuilding, and it has a lot of iron as well. Coal has been discovered there, along with some veins of copper. Even though the quantities of these materials found so far are small, their existence will naturally encourage further exploration, which will likely end successfully.

The flax plant grows spontaneously, and may, with the assistance of proper implements and other necessaries, be turned to very profitable account.

The flax plant grows naturally, and with the right tools and supplies, it can be used very profitably.

The climate is for the most part temperate and healthy; cattle are prolific; and fruits and culinary vegetables thrive with almost a tropical luxuriance.

The climate is generally mild and healthy; livestock breeds well; and fruits and vegetables grow with almost a tropical abundance.

To be brief: Such is the English Colony in New South Wales, for which the author is anxiously solicitous to obtain the candid consideration of his countrymen; among whom it has been painful to him to remark a disposition too prevalent for regarding it with odium and disgust.

To keep it short: This is the English Colony in New South Wales, which the author is keen to have his fellow countrymen consider fairly; among whom it has been upsetting for him to notice a tendency to view it with disdain and repulsion.

London, May 25, 1798

INTRODUCTION

SECTION I

Transports hired to carry convicts to Botany Bay
The Sirius and the Supply commissioned
Preparations for sailing
Tonnage of the transports
Persons left behind
Two convicts punished on board the Sirius
The Hyaena leaves the Fleet
Arrival of the fleet at Teneriffe
Proceedings at that island
Some particulars respecting the town of Santa Cruz
An excursion made to Laguna
A convict escapes from one of the transports, but is retaken
Proceedings
The fleet leaves Teneriffe, and puts to sea

Transports hired to carry convicts to Botany Bay
The Sirius and the Supply commissioned
Preparations for sailing
Tonnage of the transports
People left behind
Two convicts punished on board the Sirius
The Hyaena departs from the Fleet
Arrival of the fleet at Tenerife
Activities at that island
Details about the town of Santa Cruz
A trip made to Laguna
A convict escapes from one of the transports but is caught again
Activities
The fleet departs Tenerife and sets sail

SECTION II

Proceed on the voyage
Altitude of the peak of Teneriffe
Pass the isles of Sal, Bonavista, May, and St. Iago
Cross the equator
Progress
Arrive at the Brazils
Transactions at Rio de Janeiro
Some particulars of that town
Sail thence
Passage to the Cape of Good Hope
Transactions there
Some particulars respecting the Cape
Depart for New South Wales

Proceed on the voyage
Height of Mount Tenerife
Pass the islands of Sal, Bonavista, May, and St. Iago
Cross the equator
Continue onward
Arrive in Brazil
Activities in Rio de Janeiro
Some details about that city
Set sail from there
Journey to the Cape of Good Hope
Activities there
Some details about the Cape
Depart for New South Wales

SECTION III

Proceed on the voyage
Captain Phillip sails onward in the Supply, taking with him three of the transports
Pass the island of St. Paul
Weather, January 1788
The South Cape of New Holland made
The Sirius and her convoy anchor in the harbour of Botany Bay.

Proceed on the journey
Captain Phillip continues his voyage on the Supply, bringing along three of the transports
Pass by St. Paul Island
Weather, January 1788
The South Cape of New Holland is reached
The Sirius and her convoy anchor in the harbor of Botany Bay.

CHAPTER I

Arrival of the fleet at Botany Bay
The governor proceeds to Port Jackson, where it is determined to fix the settlement
Two French ships under M. de la Perouse arrive at Botany Bay
The Sirius and convoy arrive at Port Jackson
Transactions
Disembarkation
Commission and letters patent read
Extent of the territory of New South Wales
Behaviour of the convicts
The criminal court twice assembled
Account of the different courts
The Supply sent with some settlers to Norfolk Island
Transactions
Natives
Weather

Arrival of the fleet at Botany Bay
The governor heads to Port Jackson, where they decide to establish the settlement
Two French ships under M. de la Perouse arrive at Botany Bay
The Sirius and its convoy arrive at Port Jackson
Activities
Disembarkation
Commission and official letters read
Scope of the territory of New South Wales
Behavior of the convicts
The criminal court met twice
Overview of the different courts
The Supply sent with some settlers to Norfolk Island
Activities
Indigenous people
Weather

CHAPTER II

Broken Bay visited
M. de la Perouse sails
Transactions
The Supply returns
Lord Howe Island discovered
The ships for China sail
Some convicts wounded by the natives
Scurvy
New store-house
Necessary orders and appointments
Excursions into the country
New branch of the harbour into Port Jackson
Sheep

Broken Bay visited
M. de la Perouse sails
Transactions
The Supply returns
Lord Howe Island discovered
The ships for China sail
Some convicts wounded by the natives
Scurvy
New storehouse
Necessary orders and appointments
Excursions into the country
New branch of the harbor into Port Jackson
Sheep

CHAPTER III

Transactions
Transports sail for China
The Supply sails for Lord Howe Island
Return of stock in the colony in May
The Supply returns
Transactions
A convict wounded
Rush-cutters killed by the natives
Governor's excursion
His Majesty's birthday
Behaviour of the convicts
Cattle lost
Natives
Proclamation
Earthquake
Transports sail for England
Supply sails for Norfolk Island
Transactions
Natives
Convicts wounded

Transactions
Transports set off for China
The Supply departs for Lord Howe Island
Return of livestock in the colony in May
The Supply comes back
Transactions
A convict is injured
Rush-cutters killed by the locals
Governor's trip
His Majesty's birthday
Conduct of the convicts
Cattle missing
Indigenous people
Announcement
Earthquake
Transports set sail for England
Supply heads for Norfolk Island
Transactions
Indigenous people
Convicts injured

CHAPTER IV

Heavy rains
Public works
Sheep stolen
Prince of Wale's birthday
Fish
Imposition of a convict
Natives
Apprehensive of a failure of provisions
Natives
Judicial administration
A convict murdered

Heavy rains
Public works
Sheep stolen
Prince of Wales' birthday
Fish
Imposition of a convict
Natives
Worried about running out of supplies
Natives
Judicial administration
A convict murdered

CHAPTER V

Settlement of Rose Hill
The Golden Grove returns from Norfolk Island
The storeships sail for England
Transactions
James Daley tried and executed for housebreaking
Botany Bay examined by the governor
A convict found dead in the woods
Christmas Day
A native taken and brought up to the settlement
Weather
Climate
Report of deaths from the departure of the fleet from England to the
31st of December 1788

Settlement of Rose Hill
The Golden Grove comes back from Norfolk Island
The supply ships head for England
Transactions
James Daley tried and executed for breaking and entering
Governor inspects Botany Bay
A convict found dead in the woods
Christmas Day
A native captured and brought to the settlement
Weather
Climate
Report of deaths from the fleet's departure from England to the
31st of December 1788

CHAPTER VI

New Year's Day
Convicts, how employed
Their disposition to idleness and vice
Her Majesty's birthday kept
Natives
Captain Shea dies
Regulations respecting the convicts
Instances of their misconduct
Transactions
The Supply sails for Norfolk Island
Public Works
Natives
Convicts killed
Stores robbed
The Supply returns
Insurrection projected at Norfolk Island
Hurricane there
Transactions at Rose Hill

New Year's Day
Prisoners and their work
Their tendency toward laziness and crime
Celebrating the Queen's birthday
Indigenous people
Captain Shea passes away
Rules regarding the prisoners
Examples of their misbehavior
Events
The Supply leaves for Norfolk Island
Public Works
Indigenous people
Prisoners killed
Stores looted
The Supply comes back
Rebellion planned at Norfolk Island
Hurricane there
Events at Rose Hill

CHAPTER VII

Neutral Bay
Smallpox among the natives
Captain Hunter in the Sirius returns with supplies from the Cape of Good Hope
Middleton Island discovered
Danger of wandering in the forests of an unknown country
Convicts
The King's birthday kept
Convicts perform a play
A reinforcement under Lieutenant Cresswell sent to Norfolk Island
Governor Phillip makes an excursion of discovery
Transactions
Hawkesbury River discovered
Progress at Rose Hill
Important papers left behind in England

Neutral Bay
Smallpox affecting the local population
Captain Hunter returns on the Sirius with supplies from the Cape of Good Hope
Middleton Island discovered
The risk of getting lost in the forests of an unfamiliar land
Convicts
The King's birthday celebrated
Convicts put on a play
A detachment led by Lieutenant Cresswell sent to Norfolk Island
Governor Phillip embarks on a discovery expedition
Events
Hawkesbury River found
Advancements at Rose Hill
Crucial documents left behind in England

CHAPTER VIII

Barracks
Stock
Intelligence from Norfolk Island
Police established at the principal settlement
A successful haul of fish
A soldier tried for a rape
Provisions begin to fail
Natives
A launch completed
Rats
Ration reduced to two-thirds
Sirius returns to the Cove
One of her mates lost in the woods
Supply sails for Norfolk Island
Utility of the night watch
A female convict executed for house-breaking
Two natives taken
Serious charge against the assistant commissary satisfactorily cleared up
Lieutenant Dawes's excursion
The Supply returns
Transactions

Barracks
Stock
Information from Norfolk Island
Police established at the main settlement
A successful catch of fish
A soldier tried for rape
Supplies begin to run low
Natives
A launch has been completed
Rats
Ration reduced to two-thirds
Sirius returns to the Cove
One of her crew lost in the woods
Supply sails for Norfolk Island
Effectiveness of the night watch
A female convict executed for burglary
Two natives captured
Serious allegation against the assistant commissary satisfactorily resolved
Lieutenant Dawes's expedition
The Supply returns
Transactions

CHAPTER IX

A convict made a free settler
A pleasing delusion
Extraordinary supply of fish
Caesar's narrative
Another convict wounded by the natives
The Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
A large number of settlers sent thither on board the Sirius and Supply
Heavy rains
Scarcity of provisions increasing in an alarming degree
Lieutenant Maxwell's insanity
News brought of the loss of the Sirius
Allowance of provisions still further reduced
The Supply sent to Batavia for relief
Robberies frequent and daring
An old man dies of hunger
Rose Hill
Salt and fishing-lines made
The native escapes
Transactions

A convict becomes a free settler
An enjoyable illusion
Unbelievable amount of fish
Caesar's story
Another convict hurt by the locals
The Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
A large group of settlers sent there on the Sirius and Supply
Heavy rainfall
Growing food shortages becoming alarming
Lieutenant Maxwell's mental breakdown
News arrives about the loss of the Sirius
Rations of food further reduced
The Supply sent to Batavia for help
Frequent and bold robberies
An old man dies of starvation
Rose Hill
Salt and fishing lines produced
The native escapes
Transactions

CHAPTER X

The Lady Juliana transport arrives from England
The Guardian
His Majesty's birthday
Thanksgiving for His Majesty's recovery
The Justinian storeship arrives
Full ration ordered
Three transports arrive
Horrid state of the convicts on board
Sick landed
Instance of sagacity in a dog
A convict drowned
Mortality and number of sick on the 13th
Convicts sent to Rose Hill
A town marked out there
Works in hand at Sydney
Instructions respecting grants of land
Mr. Fergusson drowned
Convicts' claims on the master of the Neptune
Transactions
Criminal Court
Whale

The Lady Juliana transport has arrived from England
The Guardian
Celebrating His Majesty's birthday
Thanksgiving for His Majesty's recovery
The Justinian supply ship has arrived
Full rations have been ordered
Three transports have arrived
Terrible condition of the convicts on board
Sick have been landed
An example of cleverness in a dog
A convict has drowned
Reports on mortality and the number of sick on the 13th
Convicts sent to Rose Hill
A town is being planned there
Work is ongoing in Sydney
Instructions about land grants
Mr. Fergusson has drowned
Claims from convicts against the master of the Neptune
Transactions
Criminal Court
Whale

CHAPTER XI

Governor Phillip wounded by a native
Intercourse opened with the natives
Great haul of fish
Convicts abscond with a boat
Works
Want of rain
Natives
Supply returns from Batavia
Transactions there
Criminal Courts
James Bloodworth emancipated
Oars found in the woods
A convict brought back in the Supply
A boat with five people lost
Public works
A convict wounded by a native
Armed parties sent out to avenge him
A Dutch vessel arrives with supplies from Batavia
Decrease by sickness and casualties in 1790

Governor Phillip was injured by a native.
We started to interact with the natives.
We had a huge catch of fish.
Convicts escaped with a boat.
Work projects.
We had a lack of rain.
Natives.
Supply returns from Batavia.
Events took place there.
Criminal Courts.
James Bloodworth was freed.
Oars were found in the woods.
A convict was brought back in the Supply.
A boat with five people went missing.
Public works.
A convict was injured by a native.
Armed groups were sent out for revenge.
A Dutch ship arrived with supplies from Batavia.
There was a decline due to illness and casualties in 1790.

CHAPTER XII

New Year's Day
A convict drowned
A native killed
Signal colours stolen
Supply sails for Norfolk Island
H. E. Dodd, Superintendant at Rose Hill, dies
Public works
Terms offered for the hire of the Dutch snow to England
The Supply returns
State of Norfolk Island
Fishing-boat overset
Excessive heats
Officers and seamen of the Sirius embark in the snow
Supply sails for Norfolk Island, and the Waaksamheyd for England
William Bryant and other convicts escape from New South Wales
Ruse, a settler, declares that he can maintain himself without assistance from the public stores
Ration reduced
Orders respecting marriage
Port regulations
Settlers
Public works

New Year's Day
A convict drowned
A native killed
Signal colors stolen
Supply sails for Norfolk Island
H. E. Dodd, Superintendent at Rose Hill, dies
Public works
Terms offered for the hire of the Dutch snow to England
The Supply returns
State of Norfolk Island
Fishing boat capsized
Excessive heat
Officers and sailors of the Sirius board the snow
Supply departs for Norfolk Island, and the Waaksamheyd heads for England
William Bryant and other convicts escape from New South Wales
Ruse, a settler, claims he can support himself without help from public stores
Ration cut
Orders about marriage
Port rules
Settlers
Public works

CHAPTER XIII

A Musket found by a native
Reports of plans to seize boats
Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
The King's birthday
A canoe destroyed
Its evil effects
Corn sown
Battery begun
One hundred and forty acres inclosed for cattle
The Mary Ann arrives
Two criminal courts held
Ration improved
The Matilda arrives
The Mary Ann sails for Norfolk Island
Settlers
The Atlantic and Salamander arrive
Full ration issued
The William and Ann arrives
Natives
Public works

A musket found by a local
Reports about plans to take boats
Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
The King's birthday
A canoe destroyed
Its harmful effects
Corn planted
Battery started
One hundred and forty acres enclosed for cattle
The Mary Ann arrives
Two criminal courts held
Ration improved
The Matilda arrives
The Mary Ann departs for Norfolk Island
Settlers
The Atlantic and Salamander arrive
Full ration issued
The William and Ann arrives
Natives
Public works

CHAPTER XIV

The Salamander sails for, and the Mary Ann arrives from Norfolk Island
Bondel, a native, returns
A seaman, for sinking a canoe, punished
The Gorgon arrives
Commission of emancipation, and public seal
The Active and Queen arrive
Complaints against the master of the Queen
Supply ordered home
Albemarle arrives
Mutiny on board
Britannia and Admiral Barrington arrive
Future destination of the transports
The Atlantic and Queen hired
Atlantic sails for Bengal
Salamander returns from Norfolk Island
Transactions
Public works
Suicide

The Salamander departs for, and the Mary Ann comes from Norfolk Island
Bondel, a local, comes back
A sailor, punished for sinking a canoe
The Gorgon arrives
Commission of emancipation and official seal
The Active and Queen arrive
Complaints against the captain of the Queen
Supply ordered to return home
Albemarle arrives
Mutiny on board
Britannia and Admiral Barrington arrive
Future destinations of the transports
The Atlantic and Queen chartered
Atlantic departs for Bengal
Salamander returns from Norfolk Island
Transactions
Public works
Suicide

CHAPTER XV

A party of Irish convicts abscond
The Queen sails for Norfolk Island
Whale fishery
Ration altered
The Supply sails for England
Live stock (public) in the colony
Ground in cultivation
Sick
Run of water decreasing
Two transports sail
Whale fishery given up
The Queen arrives from Norfolk Island
The Marines embark in the Gorgon for England
Ration further reduced
Transactions
Convicts who were in the Guardian emancipated
Store finished
Deaths in 1791

A group of Irish prisoners escaped
The Queen sets sail for Norfolk Island
Whale fishing
Rations changed
The Supply heads for England
Public livestock in the colony
Land being farmed
Sick individuals
Water supply decreasing
Two ships depart
Whale fishing discontinued
The Queen arrives from Norfolk Island
The Marines board the Gorgon for England
Rations further cut
Transactions
Prisoners on the Guardian released
Store emptied
Deaths in 1791

CHAPTER XVI

The Queen sails for Norfolk Island
Whalers on their fishing voyages
Convicts missing
Various depredations
Dispensary and bake-house robbed
Proclamation
A criminal court held
Convict executed
Transactions
The Pitt with Lieutenant-Governor Grose arrives
Military duty fixed for Parramatta
Goods selling at Sydney from the Pitt
The Pitt ordered to be dispatched to Norfolk Island
Commissions read
Sickness
The Pitt sails
Mr. Burton killed
Stormy weather
Public works
Regulations respecting persons who had served their terms of transportation
Natives

The Queen is sailing to Norfolk Island
Whalers on their fishing trips
Convicts are missing
Various thefts
The dispensary and bakery were robbed
Announcement
A criminal court was held
A convict was executed
Activities
The Pitt with Lieutenant-Governor Grose has arrived
Military duties assigned for Parramatta
Goods are selling in Sydney from the Pitt
The Pitt has been ordered to head to Norfolk Island
Commissions announced
Illness
The Pitt sets sail
Mr. Burton was killed
Stormy weather
Public works
Rules for individuals who have completed their sentences
Natives

CHAPTER XVII

Mortality in April
Appearance and state of the convicts
Ration again reduced
Quantity of flour in store
Settlers
State of transactions with the natives
Indian corn stolen
Public works
Average prices of grain, etc at Sydney, and at Parramatta
Mortality decreases
King's birthday
The Atlantic returns from Bengal
Account received of Bryant and his companions
Ration farther reduced
Atlantic cleared
Sheep-pens at Parramatta attempted
Quality of provisions received from Calcutta
The Brittania arrives from England
Ration increased
A convict emancipated
Public works

Mortality in April
Appearance and condition of the convicts
Ration cut again
Amount of flour in stock
Settlers
Status of dealings with the Indigenous people
Corn stolen
Public works
Average prices of grain, etc. in Sydney and Parramatta
Mortality decreases
King's birthday
The Atlantic returns from Bengal
Update received about Bryant and his companions
Ration further reduced
Atlantic cleared
Sheep pens at Parramatta attempted
Quality of provisions received from Calcutta
The Brittania arrives from England
Ration increased
A convict set free
Public works

CHAPTER XVIII

The Britannia cleared
Survey of provisions
Total of cargo received from Bengal
Atlantic sails with provisions for Norfolk Island
Transactions
General behaviour of convicts
Criminal Courts
Prisoner pardoned conditionally
Another acquitted
New barracks begun
Thefts
The Atlantic returns from Norfolk Island
Information
Settlers there discontented
Principal works
The Britannia taken up by the officers of the New South Wales Corps to procure stock
The Royal Admiral East Indiaman arrives from England
Regulations at the store
A Burglary committed
Criminal Court
The Britannia sails
Shops opened
Bad conduct of some settlers
Oil issued
Slops served
Governor Phillip signifies his intention of returning to England

The Britannia has set sail.
Inventory of supplies.
Total cargo received from Bengal.
Atlantic departs with supplies for Norfolk Island.
Business dealings.
General behavior of convicts.
Criminal Courts.
One prisoner granted a conditional pardon.
Another is acquitted.
New barracks are being constructed.
Thefts reported.
The Atlantic returns from Norfolk Island.
Updates.
Settlers there are unhappy.
Key projects.
The Britannia is chartered by the officers of the New South Wales Corps to acquire livestock.
The Royal Admiral, an East Indiaman, arrives from England.
Store regulations.
A burglary has occurred.
Criminal Court.
The Britannia sets sail.
Shops are now open.
Misconduct by some settlers.
Oil distributed.
Supplies provided.
Governor Phillip expresses his plan to return to England.

CHAPTER XIX

A vessel from America arrives
Part of her cargo purchased
George Barrington and others emancipated conditionally
The Royal Admiral sails
Arrival of the Kitty Transport
£1001 received by her
Hospital built at Parramatta
Harvest begun at Toongabbie
Ration increased
The Philadelphia sails for Norfolk Island
State of the cultivation previous to the governor's departure
Settlers
Governor Phillip sails for England
Regulations made by the Lieutenant Governor
The Hope, an American Ship, arrives
Her cargo purchased for the colony
The Chesterfield whaler arrives
Grant of land to an officer
Extreme heat and conflagration
Deaths in 1792
Prices of Stock, etc

A ship from America arrives
Part of its cargo bought
George Barrington and others set free conditionally
The Royal Admiral sets sail
The Kitty Transport arrives
£1001 received by her
A hospital built in Parramatta
Harvest starts at Toongabbie
Ration increased
The Philadelphia departs for Norfolk Island
The state of the crops before the governor's departure
Settlers
Governor Phillip leaves for England
Rules established by the Lieutenant Governor
The Hope, an American ship, arrives
Its cargo bought for the colony
The Chesterfield whaler arrives
Land granted to an officer
Intense heat and fires
Deaths in 1792
Prices of livestock, etc.

CHAPTER XX

Order respecting spirits
Seamen punished
Convicts enlisted into the new corps
Regulations respecting Divine Service
The Hope sails
The Bellona arrives
Cargo damaged
Information
Two women and a child drowned
The Kitty sails for Norfolk Island
Ration
An Officer sent up to inspect the cultivation at Parramatta
A theft committed
Works
Kangaroo Ground opened
Settlers
Liberty Plains
Conditions
Bellona sails
Transactions
The Shah Hormuzear from Calcutta arrives
Information received by her
The Dholl expended
Sickness and death occasioned by the American spirits
The Chesterfield sent to Norfolk Island
Convicts sell their clothing
Two Spanish ships arrive
Information
Epitaph
A Criminal Court
The Kitty returns from Norfolk Island
Fraud at the store at Parramatta

Order regarding spirits
Sailors punished
Prisoners recruited into the new corps
Rules regarding Divine Service
The Hope sets sail
The Bellona arrives
Cargo damaged
Information
Two women and a child drowned
The Kitty departs for Norfolk Island
Rations
An officer sent to inspect the farming at Parramatta
A theft occurred
Works
Kangaroo Ground opened
Settlers
Liberty Plains
Conditions
Bellona departs
Transactions
The Shah Hormuzear from Calcutta arrives
Information received by her
The Dholl used up
Illness and death caused by the American spirits
The Chesterfield sent to Norfolk Island
Prisoners selling their clothing
Two Spanish ships arrive
Information
Epitaph
A Criminal Court
The Kitty returns from Norfolk Island
Fraud at the store in Parramatta

CHAPTER XXI

The Spanish ships sail
The Chesterfield returns from Norfolk Island
A contract entered into for bringing cattle from India to this country
Provisions embarked on board the Bengal ship for Norfolk Island
The Daedalus arrives
Cattle lost
Discoveries by Captain Vancouver
Two natives of New Zealand brought in
Bengal ship sails
Phenomenon in the sky
The hours of labour and ration altered
Lead stolen
Detachment at Parramatta relieved
Accident at that settlement
Lands cleared by officers
Mutiny on board the Kitty
The Kitty sails for England
His Majesty's birthday
State of the provision store
The Britannia arrives
Loss of cattle
General account of cattle purchased, lost in the passage, and landed in New South Wales
Natives

The Spanish ships set sail
The Chesterfield returns from Norfolk Island
A contract was made to bring cattle from India to this country
Supplies loaded onto the Bengal ship for Norfolk Island
The Daedalus arrives
Cattle lost
Discoveries by Captain Vancouver
Two natives of New Zealand brought in
Bengal ship sets sail
Phenomenon in the sky
Working hours and rations changed
Lead stolen
Detachment at Parramatta replaced
Accident at that settlement
Lands cleared by officers
Mutiny on the Kitty
The Kitty departs for England
His Majesty's birthday
Condition of the provision store
The Britannia arrives
Loss of cattle
Overall report of cattle bought, lost during the journey, and landed in New South Wales
Natives

CHAPTER XXII

The Daedalus sails for Nootka
A temporary church founded
Criminal court
The colonial vessel launched
A scheme to take a longboat
Two soldiers desert
Counterfeit dollars in circulation
A soldier punished
The Boddingtons arrives from Cork
General Court Martial held
The Britannia hired and chartered for Bengal
The new church opened
Accident
Provisions in store
Corn purchased from settlers
The Britannia sails for Bengal, and the Francis Schooner for New Zealand
Irish convicts steal a boat
The Sugar Cane arrives
Intended mutiny on board prevented
Excursion to the westward
Public works

The Daedalus sails for Nootka
A temporary church is established
Criminal court
The colonial ship is launched
A plan to take a longboat
Two soldiers desert
Counterfeit dollars are circulating
A soldier is punished
The Boddingtons arrives from Cork
A General Court Martial is held
The Britannia is hired and chartered for Bengal
The new church opens
Accident
Provisions are in storage
Corn bought from settlers
The Britannia sails for Bengal, and the Francis Schooner heads for New Zealand
Irish convicts steal a boat
The Sugar Cane arrives
Planned mutiny on board stopped
Excursion to the west
Public works

CHAPTER XXIII

The Boddingtons and Sugar Cane sail
A mill erected
Thefts committed
Convicts emancipated
Two persons killed by lightning
The Fairy arrives
Farms sold
Public works
The Francis returns from New Zealand
The Fairy sails
Ration altered
Transactions
Harvest begun
Criminal Court held
A convict executed
Provisions
Mill at Parramatta
Christmas Day
Natives
Convicts
Boats
Grants of land
Settlers
Public works
Expenses how to be calculated
Deaths in 1793
Prices of grain, stock, and labour

The Boddingtons and Sugar Cane set sail
A mill built
Thefts occurred
Convicts released
Two people struck by lightning
The Fairy arrives
Farms sold
Public projects
The Francis returns from New Zealand
The Fairy sets sail
Rations changed
Transactions
Harvest started
Criminal Court held
A convict executed
Supplies
Mill at Parramatta
Christmas Day
Indigenous people
Convicts
Boats
Land grants
Settlers
Public projects
How to calculate expenses
Deaths in 1793
Prices of grain, livestock, and labor

CHAPTER XXIV

A murder committed near Parramatta
The Francis sails for Norfolk Island
Provisions
Storm of wind at Parramatta
Crops
A Settlement fixed at the Hawkesbury
Natives
A burglary committed
Samuel Burt emancipated
Death of William Crozier Cook
The watches recovered
The Francis returns from Norfolk Island
Information
The New Zealand natives sent to their own country
Disturbance at Norfolk Island
Court of inquiry at Sydney
The Francis returns to Norfolk Island
Natives troublesome
State of provisions

A murder happened near Parramatta
The Francis departs for Norfolk Island
Supplies
Stormy weather at Parramatta
Crops
A settlement established at the Hawkesbury
Indigenous people
A burglary occurred
Samuel Burt freed
Death of William Crozier Cook
The watches recovered
The Francis comes back from Norfolk Island
Updates
The New Zealand natives sent back to their home country
Disruption at Norfolk Island
Inquiry held in Sydney
The Francis goes back to Norfolk Island
Indigenous people causing trouble
Supply situation

CHAPTER XXV

Alarming State of the provisions
The William arrives with supplies from England, and the Arthur from Bengal
The amor patriae natural to man in all parts of the earth
Information
Mr. Bampton
Captain Bligh
Admiral Barrington transport lost
Full ration issued
Ingratitude and just punishment of the settlers
Buffin's corn-mill set to work
Gaming
Honesty of a native
The Daedalus arrives from America
Information
Female inconstancy, and its consequences
The Arthur sails
The Francis returns from Norfolk Island
A boat stolen
Natives killed
A new mill
Disorder in the eyes prevalent

Alarming State of the Provisions
The William arrives with supplies from England, and the Arthur from Bengal
The love for one's country is natural to people everywhere
Information
Mr. Bampton
Captain Bligh
Admiral Barrington transport lost
Full rations issued
Ingratitude and rightful punishment of the settlers
Buffin's corn mill is operational
Gambling
Honesty of a native
The Daedalus arrives from America
Information
Female infidelity and its consequences
The Arthur sets sail
The Francis returns from Norfolk Island
A stolen boat
Natives killed
A new mill
Disorder in the eyes is common

CHAPTER XXVI

The William sails
Cultivation
Excursion in search of a river
A storeship arrives
Captain Bampton
Full ration
The Britannia, Speedy, and Halcyon arrive
The Indispensable and Halcyon sail
The Fanny arrives from Bombay
Information
Two convicts executed
The Hope sails

The William sets sail
Farming
Trip in search of a river
A supply ship arrives
Captain Bampton
Full supply
The Britannia, Speedy, and Halcyon arrive
The Indispensable and Halcyon set sail
The Fanny arrives from Bombay
Updates
Two convicts executed
The Hope sets sail

CHAPTER XXVII

The Speedy sails and returns
Excursion to the western mountains
The Francis returns from Norfolk Island
Corn bills not paid
The Britannia sails for the Cape, and the Speedy on her fishing voyage
Notification respecting the corn bills
The Resolution and Salamander arrive from England
Irish prisoners troublesome
Gales of wind
Natives
Daedalus sails for Norfolk Island
Emancipations
The Fancy sails
A death
Bevan executed
A settler murdered at Parramatta
The Mercury arrives
Spanish ships
Emancipation
Settlers and natives
Civil Court
The Surprize arrives
Deaths
Resolution and Salamander sail
Transactions
The Daedalus returns from Norfolk Island
The Mercury sails for America
The Lieutenant-Governor leaves the Settlement
The Daedalus sails for England, and the Surprize for Bengal
The Experiment arrives
Captain Paterson assumes the government pro tempore
Ration
Deaths in 1794

The Speedy departs and returns
Excursion to the western mountains
The Francis comes back from Norfolk Island
Corn bills unpaid
The Britannia heads for the Cape, and the Speedy goes on her fishing trip
Notice about the corn bills
The Resolution and Salamander arrive from England
Irish prisoners causing trouble
Strong winds
Natives
Daedalus departs for Norfolk Island
Emancipations
The Fancy sets sail
A death
Bevan executed
A settler killed at Parramatta
The Mercury arrives
Spanish ships
Emancipation
Settlers and natives
Civil Court
The Surprize arrives
Deaths
Resolution and Salamander depart
Transactions
The Daedalus returns from Norfolk Island
The Mercury sails to America
The Lieutenant-Governor leaves the Settlement
The Daedalus goes to England, and the Surprize to Bengal
The Experiment arrives
Captain Paterson takes over the government pro tempore
Ration
Deaths in 1794

CHAPTER XXVIII

Gangs sent to till the public grounds
The Francis sails
Regulations for the Hawkesbury
Natives
Works
Weather
Deaths
Produce at the river
Transactions there
Natives
The Francis arrives from the Cape
The Fancy from New Zealand
Information
The Experiment sails for India
A native killed
Weather
Wheat
Criminal Court
Ration reduced
The Britannia hired to procure provisions
Natives at the Hawkesbury
The Endeavour arrives with cattle from Bombay
Deaths
Returns of ground sown with wheat
The Britannia sails for India
The Fancy for Norfolk Island
Convicts
Casualties

Gangs were sent to work the public land
The Francis sets sail
Rules for the Hawkesbury
Indigenous people
Projects
Weather
Deaths
Crops at the river
Transactions there
Indigenous people
The Francis arrives from the Cape
The Fancy arrives from New Zealand
Updates
The Experiment heads for India
An Indigenous person killed
Weather
Wheat
Criminal Court
Rations cut
The Britannia hired to obtain supplies
Indigenous people at the Hawkesbury
The Endeavour arrives with cattle from Bombay
Deaths
Reports of land planted with wheat
The Britannia departs for India
The Fancy departs for Norfolk Island
Convicts
Casualties

CHAPTER XXIX

Ration
A Criminal and a Civil Court held
Circumstances of the death of Francis T. Daveney
Salt made
Wilson, Knight, and the natives
The new mill
Providence arrives from England
Four convicts brought from Port Stephens
Public labour
Storm
The Fancy arrives from Norfolk Island
The Supply and Reliance arrive
Governor Hunter's commission read
Transactions
The India ships sail
Another arrival from England
Military promotions
Colonial regulations
The Providence, Supply, and Young William sail
The Sovereign storeship arrives from England
Criminal court held
Convict executed
Printing-press employed
Ration
Information from Norfolk Island
The Cattle lost in 1788 discovered
Transactions
Bennillong's Conduct after his return from England
Civil Court held
Harvest
Regulations
Natives
Meteorological phenomenon at the Hawkesbury
Mr. Barrow's death
Deaths in 1795

Ration
A Criminal and a Civil Court met
Circumstances surrounding the death of Francis T. Daveney
Salt production
Wilson, Knight, and the locals
The new mill
Providence arrives from England
Four convicts brought from Port Stephens
Public works
Storm
The Fancy arrives from Norfolk Island
The Supply and Reliance arrive
Governor Hunter's commission announced
Transactions
The India ships depart
Another arrival from England
Military promotions
Colonial regulations
The Providence, Supply, and Young William depart
The Sovereign supply ship arrives from England
Criminal court convened
Convict executed
Printing press in use
Ration
Updates from Norfolk Island
Cattle lost in 1788 found
Transactions
Bennillong's behavior after returning from England
Civil Court convened
Harvest
Regulations
Natives
Meteorological event at the Hawkesbury
Mr. Barrow's death
Deaths in 1795

CHAPTER XXX

The Arthur arrives from India
Francis from Norfolk Island
A playhouse opened
Her Majesty's birthday kept
Stills destroyed
Ceres storeship arrives
and Experiment from India
Ship Otter from America
Natives
Harvest got in
Deaths
A hut demolished by the military
A Transport arrives with prisoners from Ireland
A criminal court held
Caesar shot
General court martial
Otter takes away Mr. Muir
Abigail from America arrives
A forgery committed
Works
The Reliance
Particulars respecting Mr. Bampton, and of the fate of Captain Hill and Mr. Carter
A Schooner arrives from Duskey-Bay
Crops bad
Robberies committed
Supply for Norfolk Island
Natives
Bennillong
Cornwallis sails
Gerald and Skirving die

The Arthur arrives from India
Francis from Norfolk Island
A theater opened
Her Majesty's birthday celebrated
Stills destroyed
Ceres storeship arrives
and Experiment from India
Ship Otter from America
Natives
Harvest collected
Deaths
A hut demolished by the military
A transport arrives with prisoners from Ireland
A criminal court held
Caesar shot
General court martial
Otter takes away Mr. Muir
Abigail from America arrives
A forgery committed
Works
The Reliance
Details regarding Mr. Bampton, and the fate of Captain Hill and Mr. Carter
A schooner arrives from Duskey-Bay
Crops poor
Robberies committed
Supply for Norfolk Island
Natives
Bennillong
Cornwallis sails
Gerald and Skirving die

CHAPTER XXXI

Slops served
Orders
Licences granted
The Supply returns from Norfolk Island
The Susan from North America and the Indispensable from England
A Criminal and Civil Court held
Sick
Thefts committed
The Britannia arrives from Bengal
Mr. Raven's opinion as to the time of making a passage to India
A Civil Court
The Cornwallis and Experiment sail for India
Caution to masters of ships
A Wind-mill begun
Thefts committed
State of the settlers
The Governor goes to Mount Hunter
Regulations
Public works
Deaths

Slops served
Orders
Licenses granted
The Supply returns from Norfolk Island
The Susan from North America and the Indispensable from England
A Criminal and Civil Court held
Sick
Thefts committed
The Britannia arrives from Bengal
Mr. Raven's opinion about the time to make a passage to India
A Civil Court
The Cornwallis and Experiment set sail for India
Caution to ship captains
A windmill began
Thefts committed
Condition of the settlers
The Governor goes to Mount Hunter
Regulations
Public works
Deaths

CHAPTER XXXII

Two men killed; consequent regulations
The Britannia hired to proceed to England
Report of the natives
The Francis arrives from Norfolk Island
Public works
Deaths
A criminal court assembled
A settler executed for murder
The Susan sails
A civil court held
An American ship arrives from Boston
A long-boat lost
Deaths
Weather
A temporary church opened at Parramatta
Appointments
The Supply sails for Norfolk Island and the Cape
Account of stock
Land in cultivation, and numbers in the colony
A murder committed
Britannia sails for England
General observations

Two men killed; new regulations put in place
The Britannia is hired to go to England
Report from the locals
The Francis arrives from Norfolk Island
Public works
Deaths
A criminal court convened
A settler executed for murder
The Susan sets sail
A civil court session held
An American ship arrives from Boston
A longboat lost
Deaths
Weather updates
A temporary church opened in Parramatta
Appointments
The Supply departs for Norfolk Island and the Cape
Stock account
Land being cultivated, and population numbers in the colony
A murder committed
Britannia departs for England
General observations

CONCLUSION

Comprising particulars of the Britannia's voyage to England; with remarks on the state of Norfolk Island, and some account of New Zealand.

Comprising details of the Britannia's journey to England; along with observations on the condition of Norfolk Island, and some information about New Zealand.

Particulars of the state of Norfolk Island to the time when the ships left it:

Particulars of the situation on Norfolk Island at the time when the ships departed:

Court of Judicature
Number of Inhabitants
Male Convicts
State of Cultivation
Appropriation of the Land
Statement of the Stock belonging to Government and individuals on the 18th October 1796
Hours of Labour
Ordinary Price of Labour
Average Prices of Provisions raised on the Island
Account of Grain raised on Norfolk Island, from the 6th of March 1788 (when it was first settled) to October 1796
Account of Births and Deaths from November 12th, 1791, to September 31st, 1796
State of the Flax Manufactory
An Account of New Zealand and its inhabitants
A Short Vocabulary of the New Zealand Language

Court of Judicature
Population
Male Prisoners
Land Use
Land Allocation
Summary of Government and private property as of October 18, 1796
Work Hours
Standard Wage for Labor
Average Prices for Food Grown on the Island
Report on Grain Production on Norfolk Island, from March 6, 1788 (when it was first settled) to October 1796
Report of Births and Deaths from November 12, 1791, to September 31, 1796
Status of the Flax Industry
Overview of New Zealand and its inhabitants
Basic Vocabulary of the New Zealand Language

APPENDICES

General Remarks
Government and Religion
Stature and Appearance
Habitations
Mode of Living
Courtship and Marriage
Customs and Manner
Superstition
Diseases
Property
Dispositions
Funeral Ceremonies
Language

General Remarks
Government and Religion
Stature and Appearance
Living Conditions
Lifestyle Choices
Dating and Marriage
Customs and Behaviors
Beliefs and Superstitions
Health Issues
Property Ownership
Temperaments
Funeral Practices
Language

POSTSCRIPT

LIST OF PLATES

MENU

View of the Governor's house at Rose Hill in the township of Parramatta.

By water to Parramatta, with a distant view of the western mountains.

Eastern view of Sydney.

Western view of Sydney Cove.

Direct south view of Sydney.

South-east view in Sydney, including the church, etc.

North view of Sydney Cove.

Baker's Farm on the banks of the river.

Western view of Toongabbie.

Portraits of Ben-nil-long, Wo-lar-ra-bar-ray, Wo-gul-trow-el Boin-ba, and Bun-de-bun-da.

The Brick Field, or High Road to Parramatta.

View of Sydney in Norfolk Island.

Facsimile of a chart of New Zealand, drawn by Too-gee.

Saunderson's Farm.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 1

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 2

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 3

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 4

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 5

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 6

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 7

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 8

Ceremony of burning a corpse.

INTRODUCTION

A VOYAGE TO NEW SOUTH WALES

SECTION I

Transports hired to carry convicts to Botany Bay
The Sirius and the Supply commissioned
Preparations for sailing
Tonnage of the transports
People left behind
Two convicts punished on board the Sirius
The Hyaena leaves the Fleet
Arrival of the fleet at Tenerife
Activities at that island
Some details about the town of Santa Cruz
A trip made to Laguna
A convict escapes from one of the transports but gets caught again
Activities
The fleet leaves Tenerife and sets sail

1786.]

1786.

The Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy, near the end of the year 1786, advertised for a certain number of vessels to be taken up for the purpose of conveying between seven and eight hundred male and female felons to Botany Bay in New South Wales, on the eastern coast of New Holland; whither it had been determined by Government to transport them, after having sought in vain upon the African coast for a situation possessing the requisites for the establishment of a colony.

The Commissioners of His Majesty's Navy, near the end of 1786, announced plans to charter a number of ships to transport between seven and eight hundred male and female criminals to Botany Bay in New South Wales, on the eastern coast of New Holland. The government had decided to send them there after unsuccessfully searching the African coast for a suitable location to establish a colony.

The following vessels were at length contracted for, and assembled in the River to fit, and take in stores and provisions, viz the Alexander, Scarborough, Charlotte, Lady Penrhyn, and Friendship, as transports; and the Fishbourn, Golden Grove, and Borrowdale, as store-ships. The Prince of Wales was afterwards added to the number of transports, on a representation being made to the Treasury Board that such an addition was necessary. The transports were immediately prepared for the reception of the convicts, and the store-ships took on board provisions for two years, with tools, implements of agriculture, and such other articles as were considered necessary to a colonial establishment.

The following ships were eventually contracted for, brought together in the River to get ready, and stocked with supplies and provisions: the Alexander, Scarborough, Charlotte, Lady Penrhyn, and Friendship as transports; and the Fishbourn, Golden Grove, and Borrowdale as store ships. The Prince of Wales was later added to the list of transports after a request was made to the Treasury Board that such an addition was necessary. The transports were quickly prepared to receive the convicts, and the store ships loaded up with provisions for two years, along with tools, farming equipment, and other items deemed essential for a colonial settlement.

October.] On the 24th of October, Captain Arthur Phillip hoisted a pendant on board his Majesty's ship the Sirius of 20 guns, then lying at Deptford. This ship was originally called the Berwick, and intended for the East India Company; but having, while on the stocks, met with some accident by fire, was purchased by Government for a store-ship, and as such had performed one voyage to America. Her burden was about 520 tons; and being, from her construction, well-calculated for this expedition, she was taken into the service as a man of war, and with her capacity changed also her name.

October.] On October 24th, Captain Arthur Phillip raised a pendant on board his Majesty's ship the Sirius, a 20-gun vessel, which was docked at Deptford. This ship was originally named the Berwick and was intended for the East India Company; however, after experiencing a fire while being built, it was bought by the Government to be used as a store-ship. It had already completed one voyage to America. The ship weighed about 520 tons, and due to its design, it was well-suited for this expedition. Therefore, it was repurposed as a man-of-war, and along with its new role, it was also given a new name.

As the government of the intended colony, as well as the command of the Sirius, was given to Captain Phillip, it was thought necessary to appoint another captain to her, who might command her on any service in which she might be employed for the colony, while Captain Phillip should be engaged in his government. For this purpose an order was signed by his Majesty in Council, directing the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to appoint John Hunter esquire (then a master and commander) second captain of the Sirius, with the rank of post. Although this ship mounted only 20 guns, and those but six-pounders, yet on this particular service her establishment was not confined to what is usual in a ship of that class; but, with a first and second captain, she had also three lieutenants, a master, purser, surgeon and two mates, a boatswain, a gunner, and a subaltern's detachment of marines.

As the government of the new colony and the command of the Sirius were given to Captain Phillip, it was deemed necessary to appoint another captain for the ship, who could lead her on any missions she might be assigned while Captain Phillip focused on his government duties. To that end, an order was signed by His Majesty in Council, directing the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to assign John Hunter Esquire (who was then a master and commander) as the second captain of the Sirius, with the rank of post captain. Even though this ship only had 20 guns, and those were just six-pounders, her crew setup for this specific mission was not limited to what’s typical for a ship of that class; in addition to a first and second captain, she had three lieutenants, a master, purser, surgeon, two mates, a boatswain, a gunner, and a small detachment of marines.

The Supply brig was also put into commission, and the command given to Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball. This vessel was to accompany the Sirius as an armed tender; and both ships, having completed their equipment at Deptford-yard, dropped down on the 10th of December to Long Reach, where they took in their guns, powder, and other stores.

The Supply brig was also commissioned, and Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball was put in command. This ship was meant to accompany the Sirius as an armed tender; after both vessels finished getting ready at Deptford yard, they moved down on December 10th to Long Reach, where they loaded their guns, powder, and other supplies.

1787.]

1787.

January.] They were here joined by some of the transports, and continued waiting for orders until the 30th of January 1787, when they sailed for Spithead; which port, however, they were prevented from reaching, by heavy and contrary gales of wind, which they continued to experience both in the Downs and on their passage, until the latter end of the following month.

January.] They were joined here by some of the transport ships and kept waiting for orders until January 30, 1787, when they set sail for Spithead. However, they were prevented from reaching the port due to strong and opposing winds, which they faced both in the Downs and during their journey until the end of the following month.

One or two of the transports had in the mean time arrived at Portsmouth, and the Charlotte and Alexander proceeded to Plymouth, where they were to receive the male and female convicts that were ready for them.

One or two of the transports had meanwhile arrived at Portsmouth, and the Charlotte and Alexander went on to Plymouth, where they were to pick up the male and female convicts that were prepared for them.

March.] On the 5th of March, the order for their embarkation, together with that of the detachment of marines provided as an escort, was sent from the Secretary of State's office, with directions for their immediately joining the other ships of the expedition at the Motherbank. This was done accordingly; and, every necessary arrangement having taken place, the troops intended for the garrison embarked, and the convicts, male and female, were distributed in the different transports.

March.] On March 5th, the order for their departure, along with the detachment of marines assigned as an escort, was sent from the Secretary of State's office, instructing them to immediately join the other ships of the expedition at the Motherbank. This was carried out as planned; and with all necessary arrangements made, the troops designated for the garrison boarded and the male and female convicts were assigned to the various transports.

May.] On Monday the 7th of May Captain Phillip arrived at Portsmouth, and took the command of his little fleet, then lying at the Motherbank. Anxious to depart, and apprehensive that the wind, which had for a considerable time been blowing from the quarter favourable to his passage down the Channel, might desert him at the moment when he most wished for its continuance, he on the Thursday following made the signal to prepare for sailing. But here a demur arose among the sailors on board the transports, who refused to proceed to sea unless they should be paid their wages up to the time of their departure, alleging as a ground for this refusal, that they were in want of many articles necessary for so long a voyage, which this money, if paid, would enable them to purchase. The custom of their employ, however, being against a demand which yet appeared reasonable, Captain Phillip directed the different masters to put such of their people as refused to proceed with them to sea, on board of the Hyaena frigate, and to receive an equal number of her seamen, who should afterwards be re-exchanged at sea, her captain being directed to accompany the fleet to a certain distance.

May.] On Monday, May 7th, Captain Phillip arrived in Portsmouth and took command of his small fleet, which was then stationed at the Motherbank. Eager to set sail, and worried that the favorable wind blowing from the right direction down the Channel might change just when he needed it most, he signaled to prepare for sailing the following Thursday. However, the sailors on the transports hesitated, refusing to go to sea unless they were paid their wages up to their departure. They argued that they needed funds to buy essential supplies for the long voyage. Although their request seemed reasonable, it went against the usual practices of their profession. Captain Phillip instructed the different captains to transfer the sailors who refused to sail to the Hyaena frigate, while taking an equal number of her crew in return. These sailors would be exchanged back at sea, with her captain ordered to accompany the fleet for a certain distance.

This difficulty being removed, and the ship's companies of the Sirius and the Supply having received the usual advance of two months' wages, on Saturday the 12th the men of war and some of the transports got under sail, with a view of dropping down to St. Helen's, and thence proceeding to sea; but the wind falling short, and proving unfavourable, they brought up at Spithead for the night, and at day-break next morning the whole fleet weighed with a fresh breeze, and, having a leading wind, passed without any accident through the Needles.

With this issue resolved, and the crews of the Sirius and the Supply having received their usual two months' pay in advance, the warships and some of the transport vessels set sail on Saturday the 12th, aiming to head down to St. Helen's and then go to sea. However, because the wind died down and turned against them, they anchored at Spithead for the night. At dawn the next morning, the entire fleet set off again with a fresh breeze and, with a favorable wind, passed safely through the Needles without any incidents.

The transports were of the following tonnage, and had on board the undermentioned number of convicts, and other persons, civil and military, viz

The transports had the following tonnage and carried the listed number of convicts as well as other individuals, both civilian and military, namely:

The Alexander, of 453 tons, had on board 192 male convicts; 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 29 privates, with 1 assistant surgeon to the colony.

The Alexander, weighing 453 tons, carried 192 male convicts; 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 29 privates, along with 1 assistant surgeon for the colony.

The Scarborough, of 418 tons, had on board 205 male convicts; 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 26 privates, with 1 assistant surgeon to the colony.

The Scarborough, weighing 418 tons, had 205 male convicts on board; along with 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 26 privates, plus 1 assistant surgeon for the colony.

The Charlotte, of 346 tons, had on board 89 male and 20 female convicts; 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 3 corporals, 1 drummer, and 35 privates, with the principal surgeon of the colony.

The Charlotte, weighing 346 tons, carried 89 male and 20 female convicts; along with 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 3 corporals, 1 drummer, and 35 privates, plus the colony’s chief surgeon.

The Lady Penrhyn, of 338 tons, had on board 101 female convicts; 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, and 3 privates, with a person acting as a surgeon's mate.

The Lady Penrhyn, weighing 338 tons, carried 101 female convicts; 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 3 soldiers, and a person serving as a surgeon's assistant.

The Prince of Wales, of 334 tons, had on board 2 male and 50 female convicts; 2 lieutenants, 3 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 24 privates, with the surveyor-general of the colony.

The Prince of Wales, weighing 334 tons, was carrying 2 male and 50 female convicts; along with 2 lieutenants, 3 sergeants, 2 corporals, 1 drummer, and 24 privates, plus the surveyor-general of the colony.

The Friendship, (snow,) of 228 tons, had on board 76 male and 21 female convicts; 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 3 corporals, 1 drummer, and 36 privates, with 1 assistant surgeon to the colony.

The Friendship (snow) weighed 228 tons and carried 76 male convicts, 21 female convicts, 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 2 sergeants, 3 corporals, 1 drummer, and 36 privates, along with 1 assistant surgeon for the colony.

There were on board, beside these, 28 women, 8 male and 6 female children, belonging to the soldiers of the detachment, together with 6 male and 7 female children belonging to the convicts.

There were on board, in addition to these, 28 women, 8 boys, and 6 girls, belonging to the soldiers of the detachment, along with 6 boys and 7 girls belonging to the convicts.

The Fishbourn store-ship was of 378 tons; the Borrowdale of 272 tons; and the Golden Grove of 331 tons. On board this last ship was embarked the chaplain of the colony, with his wife and a servant.

The Fishbourn store-ship weighed 378 tons; the Borrowdale weighed 272 tons; and the Golden Grove weighed 331 tons. On this last ship was the colony's chaplain, along with his wife and a servant.

Not only these as store-ships, but the men of war and transports, were stored in every part with provisions, implements of agriculture, camp equipage, clothing for the convicts, baggage, etc.

Not just these store ships, but also the warships and transport vessels, were stocked in every area with supplies, farming tools, camping gear, clothing for the convicts, baggage, and more.

On board of the Sirius were taken, as supernumeraries, the major commandant of the corps of marines embarked in the transports*, the adjutant and quarter-master, the judge-advocate of the settlement, and the commissary; with 1 sergeant, 3 drummers, 7 privates, 4 women, and a few artificers.

On board the Sirius were taken, as extras, the major commander of the marine corps on the transports*, the adjutant and quartermaster, the settlement's judge advocate, and the commissary; along with 1 sergeant, 3 drummers, 7 privates, 4 women, and a few craftsmen.

[* This officer was also lieutenant-governor of the colony.]

[* This officer was also the lieutenant governor of the colony.]

Proper day and night signals were established by Captain Phillip for the regulation of his convoy, and every necessary instruction was given to the masters to guard against separation. On board the transports a certain number of prisoners were allowed to be upon deck at a time during the day, the whole being properly secured at night: and as the master of each ship carrying convicts had indented for their security in a penalty of forty pounds for every one that might escape, they were instructed constantly to consult with the commanding marine officer on board the transports, both as to the number of convicts that were to be suffered to come on deck during the passage, and the times when such indulgence should be granted. To the military was left the care of those essential services, the preservation of their health, the inspection of their provisions, and the distribution of the sentinels who were to guard them. Their allowance of provisions during the voyage (two-thirds of the usual allowance to a seaman in the navy) was contracted for in London*; and Mr. Zachariah Clark was sent out in one of the transports as the agent responsible for the due performance of the contract. This allowance was to be suspended on their arrival at any foreign port, the commissary of the settlement being then to furnish them with fresh provisions.

Captain Phillip established proper day and night signals to keep his convoy organized, and gave all the necessary instructions to the captains to prevent separation. A limited number of prisoners were allowed on deck during the day, while everything was securely locked down at night. Each ship carrying convicts had a penalty of forty pounds for every prisoner that managed to escape, so the captains were instructed to regularly check in with the marine officer on board the transports about how many convicts could come on deck and when this privilege would be granted. The military took care of essential tasks, including maintaining the prisoners' health, inspecting their provisions, and overseeing the sentinels assigned to guard them. Their food allowance during the voyage, which was two-thirds of the standard amount for a navy seaman, was arranged in London*; Mr. Zachariah Clark was sent out in one of the transports as the agent to ensure the contract was fulfilled. This food allowance would be paused upon arrival at any foreign port, at which point the settlement's commissary would provide them with fresh provisions.

[* By William Richards jun. esquire, of Walworth in the county of Surry.]

[* By William Richards Jr., Esquire, of Walworth in the County of Surrey.]

At our outset we had the mortification to find that two of our convoy were very heavy sailers, and likely to be the occasion of much delay in so long a voyage as that in which we had embarked. The Charlotte was on the first and second day taken in tow by the Hyaena, and the Lady Penrhyn fell considerably astern. As the separation of any of the fleet was a circumstance to be most sedulously guarded against and prevented, the Sirius occasionally shortened sail to afford the sternmost ships time to come up with her; at the close of evening she was put under an easy sail for the night, during which time she carried, for the guidance of the whole, a conspicuous light in the main-top.

At the start, we were frustrated to find that two of our ships were very slow, which was likely to cause a lot of delays on such a long voyage. The Charlotte was towed by the Hyaena on the first and second days, and the Lady Penrhyn fell quite far behind. Since we had to be very careful to avoid losing any ships in the fleet, the Sirius occasionally reduced sail to give the slower ships time to catch up. By evening, she was set to sail at an easier pace for the night and carried a bright light in the main-top to guide the others.

On the 15th the signal was made for the transports to pass in succession within hail under the stern of the Sirius, when, on inquiry, it appeared, that the provost-marshal of the settlement (who was to have taken his passage on board the Prince of Wales) was left behind, together with the third mate of the Charlotte transport, and five men from the Fishbourn store-ship; the loss of these five persons was supplied by as many seamen from on board the Hyaena.

On the 15th, a signal was given for the transports to pass by one after another within hailing distance of the stern of the Sirius. Upon checking, it turned out that the provost-marshal of the settlement, who was supposed to board the Prince of Wales, had been left behind, along with the third mate of the Charlotte transport and five crew members from the Fishbourn store-ship. The loss of these five people was compensated by bringing on five seamen from the Hyaena.

Light or unfavourable winds prevented our getting clear of the Channel until the 16th, at which time we had the satisfaction of finding that we had accomplished it without returning, or putting in at any of the ports which offered themselves in our way down.

Light or unfavorable winds kept us from leaving the Channel until the 16th, at which point we were pleased to find that we had done so without going back or stopping at any of the ports that appeared along our route.

Sunday the 20th was marked by the discovery of a design formed among the convicts on board the Scarborough transport to mutiny and take possession of the ship. The information was given by one of the convicts to the commanding marine officer on board, who, on the lying-to of the convoy at noon to dispatch Captain De Courcy to England, waited on the major-commandant on board the Sirius, and communicated the particulars to him and Captain Phillip, who, after some deliberation, directed that the ringleaders (two in number) should be brought on board the Sirius, there punished, and afterwards secured in the Prince of Wales transport. This was accordingly put in execution, and two dozen lashes were inflicted by the boatswain's mate of the Sirius on each of the offenders, who stedfastly denied the existence of any such design as was imputed to them.

Sunday the 20th saw the discovery of a conspiracy among the convicts on board the Scarborough transport to mutiny and take control of the ship. This information was relayed by one of the convicts to the commanding marine officer, who, when the convoy stopped at noon to send Captain De Courcy to England, went to see the major-commandant on board the Sirius. He shared the details with him and Captain Phillip, who, after discussing it, ordered that the ringleaders (two in total) be brought on board the Sirius, punished there, and then secured in the Prince of Wales transport. This was carried out, and the boatswain's mate of the Sirius administered two dozen lashes to each of the offenders, who firmly denied the allegations against them.

A boat from each of the transports coming on board the Sirius with letters for England, some additional signals were given to the masters, with directions to those who had convicts on board to release from their irons such as might by their behaviour have merited that indulgence; but with orders to confine them again with additional security on the least appearance among them of irregularity.

A boat from each of the transports coming on board the Sirius with letters for England, some extra signals were given to the captains, instructing those who had convicts on board to free from their chains those who, by their behavior, deserved that leniency; but they were ordered to restrain them again with extra security at the first sign of any trouble among them.

These necessary regulations being adjusted, and the Hyaena sent off with the commanding officer's letters, the fleet made sail again in the evening. But it should have been observed, that when the Hyaena's boat came on board she brought some necessaries for the five men belonging to her, who had been lent to the Fishbourn store-ship, and who, animated with a spirit of enterprise, chose rather to remain in her than return in the frigate to England.

These necessary regulations being sorted out, and the Hyaena sent off with letters from the commanding officer, the fleet set sail again in the evening. However, it should be noted that when the Hyaena's boat arrived on board, it brought some supplies for the five men who belonged to her. These men had been temporarily assigned to the Fishbourn store-ship, and rather than return to England on the frigate, they decided to stay aboard the Hyaena, driven by a sense of adventure.

The wind was more favourable to the Hyaena's return to Plymouth (which port she was directed to make) than to our progress southward, for the two following days; but it then coming round to the NW, by the 24th we had reached the latitude of Cape Ortegal.

The wind was more favorable for the Hyaena to return to Plymouth (which port she was directed to head for) than for our progress southward over the next two days; however, it then shifted to the NW, and by the 24th we had reached the latitude of Cape Ortegal.

On the 25th, the signal was made for Lieutenant Shortland, the agent on board the Alexander, who, at his coming on board, was directed to visit the several transports, and collect from each a list of the different trades and occupations of the respective convicts, agreeably to a form given him for that purpose by Captain Phillip. From this time to the 29th the wind continued favourable, but blowing exceedingly fresh, and attended with a heavy rolling sea. The Supply was now directed to make sail and keep six miles ahead during the day, and two during the night; and to look out for the land, as it was expected that the fleet would on the morrow be in the neighbourhood of the Madeira Isles. Accordingly, soon after day-break the following morning, she made the signal for seeing land, and at noon we were abreast of the Deserters--certain high barren rocks so named, to the SSE of the Island of Madeira, and distant about three leagues.

On the 25th, the signal was made for Lieutenant Shortland, the agent on board the Alexander, who, upon arriving, was instructed to visit the various transports and gather from each a list of the different trades and jobs of the convicts, according to a format provided by Captain Phillip. From that moment until the 29th, the wind remained favorable, though it was blowing quite strongly and creating a heavy rolling sea. The Supply was then ordered to set sail and maintain a distance of six miles ahead during the day and two at night, while keeping an eye out for land, as it was anticipated that the fleet would be near the Madeira Islands the following day. So, shortly after daybreak the next morning, she signaled that land had been sighted, and by noon we were level with the Deserters—some tall, barren rocks named as such, located to the SSE of Madeira Island, approximately three leagues away.

In the afternoon of the 31st, the Supply ahead again made the signal for seeing land; and shortly after we were abreast of the ridge of rocks situated between the Madeira and Canary Isles, called the Salvages.

In the afternoon of the 31st, the Supply ahead once again signaled that land was sighted; and shortly after, we were alongside the ridge of rocks located between the Madeira and Canary Islands, known as the Salvages.

June.] Our strong trade-wind appeared to have here spent its force, and we were baffled (as frequently happens in the vicinity of islands) by light airs or calms. With these and contrary winds our patience was exercised until the evening of the 2nd of June, when a favourable breeze sprang up, which continued during that night. At six the next morning the island of Teneriffe was seen right ahead; and about seven in the evening the whole fleet came to an anchor in the road of Santa Cruz. The ships were immediately moored, taking the precaution of buoying their cables with empty casks, to prevent their being injured by rocks or foul ground, an inconvenience which had frequently been experienced by navigators in this road. We found riding here a Spanish packet, an English brig bound to London, and some smaller vessels.

June.] Our strong trade wind seemed to have lost its strength here, and we were stuck (as often happens near islands) with light winds or calm seas. With these and opposing winds, our patience was tested until the evening of June 2nd, when a favorable breeze picked up, which lasted through the night. By six the next morning, we spotted the island of Tenerife straight ahead; and around seven in the evening, the entire fleet anchored in the bay of Santa Cruz. The ships were quickly secured, taking precautions to buoy their cables with empty barrels to avoid damage from rocks or rough ground, an issue that had often affected sailors in this area. We found a Spanish packet ship, an English brig headed to London, and several smaller vessels anchored here.

Captain Phillip designed to have sent an officer forward in the Supply, to announce his arrival to the governor, and to settle as well the hour of his waiting upon him, as some necessary arrangements respecting fresh provisions, water, etc.; but as it was growing dark before the fleet anchored, and night coming on, when business of that nature could not well be transacted, his visit was postponed until the morning. Before we came to an anchor the port-officer, or harbour-master, came on board to make the customary inquiries, accompanied by some Spanish officers and gentlemen of the town. The ceremony of a salute was on their side declined, having, as was alleged, but two or three guns mounted for use; and on our part this omission was readily acquiesced in, as expediting the service which brought us thither, that of watering the ships, and taking on board wine and such other refreshments as could be procured; an object of more consequence than the scrupulous observance of compliment and etiquette, particularly in the then necessarily crowded state of the Sirius. And as it was afterwards understood, that it was not usual at this place to return an equal number of guns upon those occasions (a circumstance always insisted on by his Majesty's ships when they salute), all unpleasant discussion of this point was thereby avoided.

Captain Phillip planned to send an officer ahead on the Supply to inform the governor of his arrival and to arrange the time for his visit, as well as to address some necessary details regarding fresh provisions, water, etc. However, since it was getting dark before the fleet anchored and night was approaching, which made such business difficult, his visit was postponed until morning. Before we anchored, the port officer or harbor master came on board to make the usual inquiries, accompanied by some Spanish officers and local gentlemen. They declined to perform a salute on their side, claiming they only had two or three guns mounted for use, and we readily agreed to this omission to expedite our primary purpose of watering the ships and taking on board wine and other refreshments that could be obtained. This was more important than strictly adhering to complimentary customs and etiquette, especially given the crowded state of the Sirius at that time. It was later understood that it wasn't customary at this location to return an equal number of gun salutes on such occasions (a practice always required by His Majesty's ships when they salute), thus avoiding any unpleasant discussions on this matter.

Early in the morning the officer was dispatched on shore by Captain Phillip to learn at what time he might pay his respects to the governor. The hour of noon was appointed for that ceremony; and accordingly at that time Captain Phillip, accompanied by the civil, military, and naval officers under his orders, waited on his excellency the Marquis De Branceforte, and were received by him with the utmost politeness.

Early in the morning, the officer was sent ashore by Captain Phillip to find out when he could pay his respects to the governor. Noon was chosen for that meeting; so at that time, Captain Phillip, along with the civil, military, and naval officers under his command, visited his excellency the Marquis De Branceforte, who welcomed them with the greatest courtesy.

The same reasons which induced Captain Phillip to acquiesce in omitting to salute on his arrival at this port, operated against his taking public notice of his Majesty's birthday, which he would otherwise have made a point of celebrating with every mark of respect.

The same reasons that led Captain Phillip to agree to skip the salute upon his arrival at this port also prevented him from publicly acknowledging the king's birthday, which he would have otherwise made a point of celebrating with all due respect.

In the afternoon of this day the marquis sent an officer on board the Sirius, politely offering Captain Phillip whatever assistance he might stand in need of, and that was in his power to furnish. In the forenoon of Wednesday the 6th, he came in person on board, attended by several of his officers, to return Captain Phillip's visit; and afterwards entertained him, the lieutenant-governor, and other officers of the settlement, navy, and marines, to the number of ten, at dinner.

In the afternoon of that day, the marquis sent an officer on board the Sirius, politely offering Captain Phillip any assistance he might need and that he was able to provide. On Wednesday the 6th in the morning, he came on board himself, accompanied by several of his officers, to return Captain Phillip's visit. Afterwards, he hosted Captain Phillip, the lieutenant-governor, and other officers from the settlement, navy, and marines, totaling ten, for dinner.

The next being the day of Corpus Christi, a day of great religious observance and ceremony in Roman Catholic countries, no boats were sent from the transports to the shore. The business of watering, getting off wine, etc. was suspended by Captain Phillip's directions until the morrow, to prevent the least interruption being given by any of the people under his command to the ceremonies and processions which were to take place. Those officers, whose curiosity led them to observe the religious proceedings of the day, very prudently attended uncovered, and knelt, wherever kneeling was required, in the streets, and in their churches; for, when it was considered that the same great Creator of the universe was worshipped alike by Protestant and Catholic, what difficulty could the mind have in divesting their pageant of its tinsel, its trappings, and its censers, and joining with sincerity in offering the purest incense, that of a grateful heart?

The next day was Corpus Christi, a significant religious holiday with ceremonies in Roman Catholic countries, so no boats were sent from the transports to the shore. Captain Phillip ordered a pause on tasks like watering and unloading wine until the next day to avoid disrupting the ceremonies and processions. The officers who were curious about the religious events of the day wisely attended without hats and knelt wherever it was appropriate, both in the streets and in churches. Given that the same great Creator of the universe is worshipped by both Protestants and Catholics, how could anyone struggle to see past the decorations and join sincerely in offering the purest form of praise, which is a grateful heart?

The Marquis De Branceforte, whom we found in the government of the Canary Isles, was, we were informed, a major-general in the Spanish service, and having been three years in the government, only waited, it was said, for his promotion to the rank of lieutenant-general to return to Spain. The salary annexed to this government, as we understood, was not quite equal to fifteen hundred pounds a year. His Excellency's house was situated at the upper end of the High Street, or Square, as it was called, and was by no means the best in the town. Mr. Carter (the treasurer) and some private merchants appearing to reside in larger and much better habitations. The houses in most of the streets were built with quadrangles, a gallery running round the interior sides of the first floor, on which indeed the families chiefly resided, appropriating the ground floor to offices for domestic purposes. The dwelling-rooms were not ceiled, but were open to the roof of the building, which rarely exceeded two stories in height. The upper part of the windows was glazed with very bad glass; the lower part consisted of close lattice-work, through the small apertures of which, as we traversed the streets, we had now and then opportunities of noticing the features of the women, whom the custom of the country had confined within doors to the lattice, and in the street to the roba zilia, or veil. There were but few objects in the town sufficiently striking to draw the attention of a stranger.

The Marquis De Branceforte, whom we found governing the Canary Islands, was said to be a major-general in the Spanish army, and having spent three years in this position, he was reportedly just waiting for his promotion to lieutenant-general to return to Spain. The salary attached to this position, as we understood, was just under fifteen hundred pounds a year. His Excellency's house was located at the upper end of High Street, or Square, as it was called, and it was certainly not the best in town. Mr. Carter (the treasurer) and several private merchants lived in larger and much nicer homes. Most houses on the streets were built around quadrangles, with a gallery running along the inside of the first floor, where families primarily resided, while the ground floor was used for domestic offices. The living rooms were not ceilinged but opened up to the roof of the building, which rarely rose above two stories. The upper part of the windows had very poor glass, while the lower part featured close lattice-work, allowing us at times to catch glimpses of the women’s faces as we walked through the streets. Local customs kept them indoors behind the lattice, and in public, they were required to wear the roba zilia, or veil. There were only a few things in town that were striking enough to capture a stranger's attention.

The landing-place was commodious, being formed by a stone pier, alongside of which two boats at a time might lie with great ease and take in their fresh water. It appeared by an inscription in Spanish, that the pier, having fallen nearly into a state of entire ruin, was indebted for its present convenience to the liberality of the governor assisted indeed by some merchants, who superintended and contributed largely to its repair, which was completed in the year 1786.

The dock was spacious, built with a stone pier where two boats could easily dock at once to take on fresh water. An inscription in Spanish indicated that the pier, having almost fallen apart, owed its current functionality to the generosity of the governor, along with some merchants who oversaw and contributed significantly to its restoration, which was finished in 1786.

At the lower end of the High Street was observed a light and well-finished monument of white marble, commemorating the marvellous appearance of the image or bust of Our Lady at Candelaria, to the Guanches, the aborigines of the country, who were thereby converted to Christianity 104 years before the preaching of the gospel. The four sides of the monument bore long inscriptions to this effect, and further intimated, that it was erected, as an act of piety and cordial devotion, at the expense of Don Bartholomi di Montagnes, perpetual captain of the Royal Marine Castle at Candelaria.

At the lower end of the High Street, there was a beautifully crafted white marble monument commemorating the miraculous appearance of the image of Our Lady at Candelaria to the Guanches, the native people of the land, who were converted to Christianity 104 years before the gospel was preached. The four sides of the monument had lengthy inscriptions stating this, and also mentioned that it was erected as an act of faith and heartfelt devotion at the expense of Don Bartholomi di Montagnes, the permanent captain of the Royal Marine Castle at Candelaria.

In the centre of this street were a stone basin and fountain, from which the inhabitants were supplied with a stream of very good water, conveyed from the neighbouring hills by wooden troughs supported on slight posts, and reaching quite to the town. At the head of the street, near the government-house, stood a large stone cross, and at a small distance the church of St Francis, annexed to which was a monastery of Franciscans. The name of Santa Cruz, the Holy Cross, seemed not inapplicable to this town, for one or more crucifixes of wood or stone were to be found in most of the streets, and in others the form of the Cross was painted upon the walls of the houses. Over the entrances of some houses we observed, inclosed in small glass-cases, the images and pictures of favourite saints, with lamps before them, which were lighted in the evenings and on certain public occasions.

In the middle of this street was a stone basin and fountain that provided the residents with a stream of good water, brought in from the nearby hills through wooden troughs supported by thin posts, extending all the way to the town. At the end of the street, close to the government house, stood a large stone cross, and not far away was the church of St. Francis, which was attached to a Franciscan monastery. The name Santa Cruz, meaning the Holy Cross, seemed fitting for this town, as you could find one or more wooden or stone crucifixes on most streets, and in others, the shape of the Cross was painted on the walls of the houses. Above the entrances of some homes, we noticed small glass cases enclosing images and pictures of beloved saints, with lamps in front of them, which were lit in the evenings and on certain public occasions.

There were not any fortifications upon the commanding ground above the town; but at each end of the bay stood a fort, between which were erected three or four circular redoubts, connected with each other by a low parapet wall, wearing the appearance of a line of communication between the forts; but very few cannon were to be seen in the works.

There were no fortifications on the high ground above the town; however, at each end of the bay, there was a fort, and between them were three or four circular redoubts connected by a low parapet wall, resembling a line of communication between the forts. But there were only a few cannons visible in the works.

On the skirts of the town to the southward we visited a workhouse, which had been originally designed for the reception of the mendicants with which the town had been very much infested. About forty families had subscribed a certain sum to erect this building, and to furnish in a manner every way convenient and consistent with such a design. But we were informed that the governor had filled it with the daughters of the labouring poor, who were here instructed in weaving and spinning, and were brought up in industry and cleanliness, remaining in the house until of a marriageable age, when a portion equal to ten pounds sterling was given with each on the day of her nuptials. This and the other expenses of the house were furnished by a fund produced from the labour of the young people, who appeared all in the same dress, plain indeed, but cleanly and neat.

On the outskirts of town to the south, we visited a workhouse that was originally built to take in the many beggars that plagued the area. About forty families contributed a certain amount of money to construct this building and to furnish it in a way that was functional and suitable for its purpose. However, we learned that the governor had filled it with the daughters of the working poor, who were taught weaving and spinning here and raised in a culture of hard work and cleanliness. They stayed in the house until they were of marrying age, at which point a sum of ten pounds sterling was given to each of them on their wedding day. This and the other expenses of the house were funded by the labor of the young people, who all wore the same uniform, which was simple but clean and tidy.

We heard with surprise, and not without regret, that this institution was likely to fall to the ground whenever the governor's departure should take place, the subscribers being dissatisfied with the plan that was then pursued, alleging that their money had been given to get rid of their beggars, whose numbers were not diminished; and that the children were only taught what they could learn from their mothers at home. To us however, judging without prejudice or partiality, the design of the institution appeared to have been more effectually answered by striking at the root of beggary, than if the charity had been merely confined to objects who would have been found daily to multiply, from the comfortable provision held out to them by that charity.

We were surprised, and a bit regrettable, to hear that this institution was likely to collapse once the governor left, as the donors were unhappy with the current approach, claiming their contributions were meant to eliminate their beggars, who still remained in large numbers; and that the children were only learning what they could pick up from their mothers at home. However, looking at the situation without prejudice or favoritism, we believed that the purpose of the institution seemed to be more effectively served by addressing the root cause of begging, rather than simply providing aid to those who would continually increase due to the support offered by that charity.

A whole-length picture of the governor was hung up in the working-rooms of the house. He was represented, agreeably to the end that was at first proposed by the institution, conducting a miserable object to the gate of the workhouse; a front view of which was also given.

A full-length portrait of the governor was displayed in the working rooms of the house. He was depicted, in line with the original purpose of the institution, escorting a pitiable figure to the workhouse gate; a front view of which was also shown.

These islands, known to the Romans by the appellation of the Fortunate Islands, appeared even at this day to deserve that epithet; for the inhabitants were so fortunate, and the soil so happy, that no venomous creature had been found to live there; several toads, adders, and other poisonous reptiles, which had been brought thither for proof, having died almost immediately after their arrival. The air of this place is very salubrious; an instance of which was remarked in a gentleman who was said to be 113 years of age, and who had been happy enough to preserve his faculties through such a series of time, nearly entire, his memory alone appearing to be impaired. He came from Waterford in Ireland, and had been vice-consul at this port ever since the year 1709.

These islands, called the Fortunate Islands by the Romans, still seem to deserve that name today; the people living there are so fortunate, and the land is so fertile, that no poisonous creatures have been found to live there. Several toads, adders, and other venomous reptiles that were brought there for testing died almost immediately after arriving. The air here is very healthy; a case in point is a gentleman who was said to be 113 years old and had managed to keep almost all his faculties intact over such a long time, with only his memory showing signs of decline. He came from Waterford in Ireland and had been the vice-consul at this port since 1709.

We were informed that a slight shock of an earthquake had been felt here in the month of February preceding, but was unattended with any eruption from the Peak, which had not alarmed the island since the year 1703, when it destroyed the port of Guarrachica.

We were told that a small earthquake was felt here in February, but it didn't cause any eruptions from the Peak, which hasn't worried the island since 1703, when it wiped out the port of Guarrachica.

When the weather was very hot at Santa Cruz, the better sort of the inhabitants chose cooler residences higher up in the mountains, and these they could establish in whatever degree of temperature they chose; for in proportion as they ascended the air became cooler, the famous Peak being (though a volcano) clad in perpetual snow at its summit. We understood that the rain fell very heavy at certain seasons; and, on the sides of the hills which surrounded the town, ridges or low walls of stone were constructed at short distances, with intervals in them, to break the force of the water, which otherwise, descending in torrents, would sweep away every thing before it. Around Santa Cruz, indeed, there appeared but little vegetation for which to be apprehensive, nor did the prospect brighten till we came within view of the town named Laguna, an inland settlement, and once the capital of the island.

When the weather was really hot in Santa Cruz, the more affluent residents chose to live in cooler places higher up in the mountains, where they could enjoy whatever temperature they preferred. As they climbed, the air got cooler, with the famous Peak—despite being a volcano—covered in perpetual snow at its summit. We learned that it rained heavily during certain seasons, and along the slopes surrounding the town, ridges or low stone walls were built at short intervals to slow down the water, which would otherwise come down in torrents and sweep everything away. Around Santa Cruz, there was actually very little vegetation to worry about, and the view didn’t improve until we reached the town of Laguna, an inland settlement that was once the capital of the island.

For this place a party of us set forward on the 8th, mounted, according to the custom of the country, upon mules or asses. Our route lay over hills and mountains of rock continually ascending, until within a short distance of the town, at which we arrived in between two and three hours from our leaving Santa Cruz. The road over which we passed was wide, but for the greatest part of it we travelled over loose stones that bore all the appearance of cinders; in some places resembling a regular pavement, and in others our beasts were compelled to scramble as well as they could over the hard solid rock. We found that Laguna, which was somewhat better than three English miles distant from Santa Cruz, had formerly been a populous city; the streets were spacious, and laid out at right angles with each other.

For this journey, a group of us set off on the 8th, riding, as is customary in the region, on mules or donkeys. Our path took us over rocky hills and mountains continually climbing, until we were just a short distance from the town, which we reached about two to three hours after leaving Santa Cruz. The road we traveled was wide, but for most of it, we went over loose stones that looked like cinders; in some places, it was like a proper pavement, while in others, our animals had to navigate as best as they could over the hard, solid rock. We discovered that Laguna, which was just over three English miles from Santa Cruz, used to be a bustling city; the streets were spacious and laid out in a grid pattern.

Here were two monasteries and as many convents. The monastery of St Augustine we visited; and the good fathers of it with great civility conducted us to their chapel, though it was preparing for the celebration of some religious ceremony. We found the altar-piece, on which was commonly displayed all their finery and taste, neat, light, and elegant. Few paintings were to be seen; the best were half-lengths of some of the saints disposed round the pulpit. The form of this building was a quadrangle, the centre of which was laid out in garden-ground, elegantly divided into walks, bordered with roses, myrtle, and a variety of other shrubs and flowers. Hence we proceeded to the retreat of religious females, but had not chosen the proper time for paying our respects, which ceremony we therefore deferred until our return in the evening from an excursion into the adjacent country.

There were two monasteries and as many convents. We visited the monastery of St. Augustine, where the kind brothers welcomed us and showed us to their chapel, even though it was being prepared for a religious ceremony. The altar piece, which typically showcased all their decorations and style, looked neat, bright, and elegant. There were few paintings; the best ones were half-length portraits of some saints arranged around the pulpit. The building was shaped like a square, with a garden in the center that was beautifully designed with paths lined with roses, myrtle, and a variety of other shrubs and flowers. After that, we went to visit the convent of the religious women, but we realized we had picked the wrong time to pay our respects, so we decided to wait until we returned in the evening from our trip to the nearby countryside.

The town of Laguna (a name which signifies Lake or Swamp) is situated upon a plain surrounded by high hills, and watered by the same means as Santa Cruz, from a great distance up the country. We noticed, indeed, two stone-basins, and fountains playing in different streets of the place. The buildings here had a manifest superiority over those of Santa Cruz, the streets were far more spacious, and the houses larger. In some of the former we perceived a regular line of shops filled chiefly with articles from England. The insalubrity of the air of this place, however, had driven, and was continuing to drive, such numbers almost daily from its influence, that it had more the appearance of a deserted than of an inhabited town, weeds and grass literally growing in the streets. As this town decreased in its population, Santa Cruz, with some others on the island, received the benefit; and it must be acknowledged, that although in quitting Laguna they removed from fertile fields and a romantic pleasant country, to uncouth and almost barren rocks at Santa Cruz, they changed a noxious for a very healthy situation.

The town of Laguna (which means Lake or Swamp) is located on a flat area surrounded by tall hills, and it gets its water in the same way as Santa Cruz, from far upstream. We actually saw two stone basins and fountains in different streets of the town. The buildings here were clearly better than those in Santa Cruz, the streets were wider, and the houses were larger. In some of the former, we noticed a row of shops mostly filled with goods from England. However, the unhealthy air in this place had driven, and continued to drive, many people away almost daily, making it seem more like a ghost town than a living one, with weeds and grass growing in the streets. As Laguna's population decreased, Santa Cruz and a few other towns on the island benefited; and it must be noted that although leaving Laguna meant moving away from fertile land and a picturesque countryside, it was a shift from an unhealthy environment to a much healthier one in Santa Cruz.

After viewing the town we remounted our beasts, and proceeded by the side of the aqueduct into a most delightful country, where we found the people cheerfully employed in gathering their harvest, and singing their rural roundelays. The soil produced oats, barley, wheat, and Indian corn; but, though it bore always two, and sometimes three crops, it was nevertheless unequal in the whole of its produce to the consumption of the island, the deficiency being supplied from the Grand Canary.

After checking out the town, we got back on our horses and rode along the aqueduct into a beautiful countryside. We saw people happily busy gathering their harvest and singing their folk songs. The land grew oats, barley, wheat, and corn; however, even though it typically produced two, and sometimes three, crops a year, it still didn’t meet the island's total food needs, with the shortfall being made up by supplies from Grand Canary.

The sides of the hills were clothed with woods, into one of which we rode, and arriving at a place named Il Plano de los Vieios, or the Plain of the Old People, we rested for some little time, and afterward, crossing through a cultivated valley, ascended the hill on the opposite side, where we visited the source of the stream that supplied the aqueduct. Returning thence, we refreshed under the walls of a small chapel, where a friar occasionally performed mass for the neighbouring country people. About five o'clock we again entered Laguna, with the intention of paying our compliments to the sisterhood of the convent which we had visited in the morning; but whether our party was too numerous, or from what other cause it proceeded we could not learn, we were only favoured with the company of four or five of the elder ladies of the house, who talked very loud and very fast. After purchasing some few bunches of artificial fruit, we took our leave, and proceeded to Santa Cruz, cautiously indeed, down the hills and rocks which we had ascended in the morning, and arrived about sun-set.

The sides of the hills were covered with trees, and we rode into one of them. When we got to a place called Il Plano de los Vieios, or the Plain of the Old People, we took a short break. After that, we crossed through a cultivated valley and climbed the hill on the other side, where we visited the source of the stream that fed the aqueduct. On our way back, we rested by a small chapel's walls, where a friar sometimes held mass for the local people. Around five o'clock, we entered Laguna again, intending to pay our respects to the nuns at the convent we visited earlier in the day. However, whether it was because our group was too large or for another reason we couldn’t figure out, we were only able to meet four or five of the older ladies from the house, who spoke very loudly and quickly. After buying a few bunches of fake fruit, we said our goodbyes and carefully made our way to Santa Cruz, navigating the hills and rocks we had climbed earlier, and arrived just around sunset.

An outward-bound Dutch East-Indiaman had anchored in the road since the morning.

An outbound Dutch East-Indiaman had dropped anchor in the harbor since the morning.

In the evening of this day John Powers, a convict, made his escape from the Alexander transport, in a small boat which by some accident was suffered to lie unattended to alongside the ship, with a pair of oars in it; he was however retaken at day-break the next morning, by the activity of the master and a party of marines belonging to the transport, and brought on board the Sirius, whence he was removed to his own ship, with directions for his being heavily ironed.

In the evening of that day, John Powers, a prisoner, escaped from the Alexander transport in a small boat that had been left unattended next to the ship, with a pair of oars in it. However, he was captured at dawn the next morning by the quick response of the captain and a group of marines from the transport, and brought back on board the Sirius, from where he was transferred to his own ship under orders to be heavily shackled.

It appeared that he had at first conceived hopes of being received on board the Dutch East India ship that arrived in the morning; but, meeting with a disappointment there, rowed to the southern part of the island, and concealed himself among the rocks, having first set his boat and oars adrift, which fortunately led to a discovery of the place he had chosen for his retreat. The Marquis de Branceforte, on hearing of his escape, expressed the greatest readiness to assist in his recovery; and Captain Phillip offered a considerable reward for the same purpose.

It seemed he initially hoped to be taken aboard the Dutch East India ship that arrived in the morning; however, after being let down there, he rowed to the southern part of the island and hid among the rocks, having first set his boat and oars adrift, which luckily helped identify the spot he chose for his hideout. The Marquis de Branceforte, upon hearing of his escape, showed great willingness to help in bringing him back; and Captain Phillip offered a substantial reward for that purpose.

Having completed the provisioning and watering of the fleet, and being again ready to proceed on our voyage, in the afternoon of Saturday the 9th the signal was made from the Sirius for all boats to repair on board; shortly after which she unmoored, and that night lay at single anchor.

Having finished stocking and refueling the fleet, and being ready to continue our journey, in the afternoon of Saturday the 9th, the signal was raised from the Sirius for all boats to come on board; soon after, she cast off and that night anchored alone.

At daybreak the following morning the whole fleet got under way.

At dawn the next morning, the entire fleet set sail.

SECTION II

Proceed on the journey
Height of the peak of Tenerife
Pass the islands of Sal, Bonavista, Maio, and Santiago
Cross the equator
Continue onward
Arrive in Brazil
Activities in Rio de Janeiro
Some details about that city
Sail from there
Journey to the Cape of Good Hope
Activities there
Some details about the Cape
Leave for New South Wales

Light airs had, by the noon of Monday the 11th, carried the fleet midway between the islands of Teneriffe and the Grand Canary, which latter was now very distinctly seen. This island wore the same mountainous appearance as its opposite neighbour Teneriffe, from which it seemed to be divided by a space of about eleven leagues. Being the capital of the Canary Islands, the chief bishop had his residence there, and evinced in his diocese the true spirit of a primitive Christianity, by devoting to pious and charitable purposes the principal part of a revenue of ten thousand pounds per annum. The chief officers of justice also reside in this island, before whom all civil causes are removed from Teneriffe and the other Canary Islands, to be finally decided.

Light winds had, by noon on Monday the 11th, carried the fleet halfway between the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with the latter now clearly visible. This island had a similar mountainous look as its neighbor Tenerife, from which it appeared to be separated by about eleven leagues. As the capital of the Canary Islands, the chief bishop lived there and demonstrated the true spirit of early Christianity by dedicating most of a yearly revenue of ten thousand pounds to religious and charitable causes. The main justice officials also resided on this island, where all civil cases from Tenerife and the other Canary Islands were brought for final resolution.

While detained in this spot, we had a very fine view of the Peak of Teneriffe, lifting its venerable and majestic head above the neighbouring hills, many of which were also of considerable height, and perhaps rather diminished the grandeur of the Peak itself, the altitude of which we understood was 15,396 feet, only 148 yards short of three miles.

While we were held here, we had a great view of the Peak of Teneriffe, rising its old and impressive head above the nearby hills, many of which were also quite tall and might have slightly overshadowed the Peak's grandeur. We learned that the Peak's height was 15,396 feet, just 148 yards short of three miles.

On the 14th, the wind began to blow steady from the north-east; and on the 15th, about eleven in the forenoon, we crossed the tropic of Cancer. Our weather now became hot and close, and we rolled along through a very heavy sea, the convoy, however, keeping well together.

On the 14th, the wind started blowing steadily from the northeast; and on the 15th, around eleven in the morning, we crossed the Tropic of Cancer. The weather now turned hot and muggy, and we moved through a very rough sea, but the convoy stayed close together.

At six o'clock in the morning of the 18th, the Supply, then ahead of the fleet, made the signal for seeing land. The weather being very hazy, we had but an indistinct view of the Isle of Sal, one of the Cape de Verd islands, bearing NW by W ¼ W distant eight leagues; and at one the same day, we came in sight of the Island of Bonavista, bearing S.W. distant two leagues.

At six in the morning on the 18th, the Supply, positioned ahead of the fleet, signaled that land was in sight. The weather was quite foggy, so we could only barely make out the Isle of Sal, one of the Cape Verde islands, located NW by W ¼ W and eight leagues away; and at one o'clock the same day, we spotted the Island of Bonavista, located to the southwest and two leagues away.

Captain Phillip designing to anchor for a few hours at the Island of St. Iago, to procure water and other refreshments, if he could get in without any risk or difficulty, in the evening shortened sail, and made the convoy's signal to close, the run from thence to that island being too great to admit of our reaching it before dark. The Supply was directed at the same time to keep ahead with a light during the night; and at twelve o'clock the night signal was made for the fleet to bring-to.

Captain Phillip planned to anchor for a few hours at the Island of St. Iago to get water and other supplies, if he could do so safely. In the evening, he reduced sail and signaled the convoy to get closer, since it was too far to reach the island before dark. The Supply was also instructed to stay ahead with a light during the night; at midnight, a signal was made for the fleet to stop.

At six the next morning we made sail again, and soon after passed the Isle of May, distant about four leagues, bearing NW by W of us. Between nine and ten o'clock we made the south end of the Island of St. Iago and at the distance of about two leagues. The wind freshening soon after we saw the island, at noon we were ranging along the south side of it, with the signal flying for the convoy to prepare to anchor; but at the moment of our opening Praya-bay, and preparing to haul round the southern extremity of it, the fleet was suddenly taken aback, and immediately after baffled by light airs. We could however perceive, as well by the colours at the fort, as by those of a Portuguese snow riding in the bay, that the wind blew directly in upon the shore, which would have rendered our riding there extremely hazardous; and as it was probable that our coming to an anchor might not have been effected without some accident happening to the convoy, Captain Phillip determined to wave, for the superior consideration of the safety of the fleet under his care, the advantages he might otherwise have derived from the supply of fresh provisions and vegetables to be procured there: the breeze therefore coming off the land, and with sufficient effect to carry us clear of the island and its variable weather, the anchoring signal was taken in, and we made sail about two o'clock, the fleet standing away due south. Our sudden departure from the island, we imagined, must have proved some disappointment to the inhabitants, as we noticed that a gun was fired at the fort, shortly after our opening the bay; a signal, it was supposed, to the country people to bring down their articles for trade and barter.

At six the next morning, we set sail again, and shortly after, we passed the Isle of May, which was about four leagues away, positioned NW by W from us. Between nine and ten o'clock, we reached the south end of the Island of St. Iago, roughly two leagues away. With the wind picking up after we spotted the island, we were along its southern side by noon, with a signal flying for the convoy to get ready to anchor. However, just as we were about to enter Praya bay and navigate around its southern tip, the fleet was unexpectedly taken aback and then faced light winds. We could see, both from the colors of the fort and a Portuguese snow anchored in the bay, that the wind was blowing directly towards the shore, which would have made it very risky for us to anchor there. Since it was likely that our anchoring could lead to accidents with the convoy, Captain Phillip decided to prioritize the safety of the fleet over the potential benefits of fresh provisions and vegetables available there. As the wind shifted off the land with enough strength to move us away from the island and its unpredictable weather, the anchoring signal was retracted, and we set sail around two o'clock, with the fleet heading due south. We thought our sudden departure might have disappointed the locals, as we noticed a gun was fired from the fort shortly after we entered the bay; it was thought to be a signal to the local people to bring down their goods for trade.

July.] On the 14th of July the fleet crossed the equator in the 26th degree of east longitude. Such persons as had never before crossed the Line were compelled to undergo the ridiculous ceremonies which those who were privileged were allowed to perform on them.

July.] On July 14th, the fleet crossed the equator at the 26th degree of east longitude. Those who had never crossed the Line before were forced to go through the silly ceremonies that those who had were allowed to perform on them.

From this time our weather was pleasant, and we had every appearance of soon reaching our next port, the Rio de Janeiro, on the Brazil coast.

From this point on, the weather was nice, and it seemed like we would soon arrive at our next destination, Rio de Janeiro, on the Brazilian coast.

The track which we had to follow was too beaten to afford us any thing new or interesting. Captain Phillip proposed making the Island of Trinidada; but the easterly winds and southerly currents which we had met with to the northward of the Line having set us so far to the westward when we crossed it, he gave up all expectation of seeing it, and on the 28th altered his course, steering SW. Trinidada is laid down in 20 degrees 25 minutes south latitude, and 28 degrees 35 minutes west longitude, while we at noon on the 29th were in 19 degrees 36 minutes south latitude, and 33 degrees 18 minutes west longitude.

The path we had to take was too worn out to offer us anything new or interesting. Captain Phillip suggested we head toward the Island of Trinidad; however, the east winds and south currents we encountered north of the Equator had pushed us too far west when we crossed it, causing him to abandon hope of seeing it. On the 28th, he changed our direction to sail southwest. Trinidad is located at 20 degrees 25 minutes south latitude and 28 degrees 35 minutes west longitude, while at noon on the 29th, we were at 19 degrees 36 minutes south latitude and 33 degrees 18 minutes west longitude.

The longitude, when calculated by either altitudes of the sun, for the time-piece (of Kendal's constructing, which was sent out by the Board of Longitude), or by the means of several sets of lunar observations, which were taken by Captain Hunter, Lieutenant Bradley, and Lieutenant Dawes, was constantly shown to the convoy, for which purpose the signal was made for the whole to pass under the stern of the Sirius, when a board was set up in some conspicuous part of the ship with the longitude marked on it to that day at noon.

The longitude, calculated using either the sun's altitudes from the timepiece built by Kendal and sent out by the Board of Longitude, or from various sets of lunar observations taken by Captain Hunter, Lieutenant Bradley, and Lieutenant Dawes, was consistently shown to the convoy. For this purpose, a signal was made for everyone to pass under the stern of the Sirius, where a board was displayed in a visible spot on the ship, showing the longitude up to that day at noon.

A good look-out (to make use of the sea-phrase usual on these occasions) was kept for an island, not very well known or described, which was laid down in some charts, nearly in the track which we were to cross, but it was not seen by any of the ships of the fleet; nor was implicit credit given to its existence, although named (the island of Ascension) and a latitude and longitude assigned to it. It was conjectured, that the islands of Martin Vas and Trinidada, lying within about five leagues of each other, had given rise to the idea of a new island, and that Ascension was in reality one or other of those islands.

A good lookout (to use the nautical term common in these situations) was kept for an island, which wasn't very well known or described. It was marked on some charts, almost in the path we were going to take, but none of the ships in the fleet spotted it; nor was complete trust placed in its existence, even though it was named (the island of Ascension) and had a latitude and longitude assigned to it. It was theorized that the islands of Martin Vas and Trinidada, located about five leagues apart, had sparked the idea of a new island and that Ascension was actually one of those islands.

Only two accidents happened during the passage to the Brazils. A seaman belonging to the Alexander was so unfortunate as to fall overboard, and could not be recovered--and a female convict on board the Prince of Wales was so much bruised by the falling of a boat from off the booms (which, owing to the violent motion of the ship, had got loose) that she died the following day, notwithstanding the professional skill and humane attention of the principal surgeon; for as the boat in launching forward fell upon the neck and crushed the vertebrae and spine, all the aid he could render her was of no avail.

Only two accidents occurred during the journey to Brazil. A crew member from the Alexander unfortunately fell overboard and couldn’t be rescued, and a female convict on the Prince of Wales was severely injured when a boat fell from the booms due to the ship’s violent motion. She died the next day despite the expertise and compassionate care of the chief surgeon; the boat had landed on her neck, crushing her vertebrae and spine, and there was nothing he could do to save her.

August.] On Thursday the 2nd of August we had the coast of South America in sight; and the head-land, named Cape Frio, was distinctly seen before the evening closed in. Our time-piece had given us notice when to look out for it, and the land was made precisely to the hour in which it had taught us to expect it. It was not, however, until the evening of the 4th that we anchored within the islands at the entrance of the harbour of Rio de Janeiro.

August.] On Thursday, August 2nd, we could see the coast of South America, and the landmark called Cape Frio was clearly visible before nightfall. Our clock had alerted us when to keep an eye out for it, and we spotted the land exactly when it told us to expect it. However, it wasn't until the evening of the 4th that we dropped anchor near the islands at the entrance to the harbor of Rio de Janeiro.

At day-break the next morning an officer was dispatched from the Sirius to inform the viceroy of the arrival of the fleet; and he most readily and politely promised us every assistance in his power. A ship bound to Lisbon passing us about noon, that opportunity was taken of sending an account to England of the fortunate progress which we had so far made in the long voyage before us; soon after which the port-officer, or harbour-master, came on board, and, the seabreeze beginning to blow, the fleet got under sail. About five in the afternoon we crossed the bar, and soon after passing the fort of Santa Cruz, saluted it with thirteen guns, which were returned by an equal number of guns from the fort. While saluting, it fell calm; but by the assistance of a light breeze which afterwards sprung up, and the tide of flood, the Sirius was enabled to reach far enough in by seven o'clock to come to an anchor in the harbour of Rio de Janeiro; the convoy also anchored as they came up, at the distance of about a mile and a half from the landing-place, which was found very commodious.

At dawn the next morning, an officer was sent from the Sirius to inform the viceroy about the fleet's arrival; he promptly and courteously promised us all the assistance he could provide. Around noon, a ship heading to Lisbon passed by, and we took the chance to send a report back to England about our successful progress so far in the long voyage ahead of us. Shortly after that, the port officer, or harbor master, came on board, and as the sea breeze began to blow, the fleet set sail. By around five in the afternoon, we crossed the bar, and soon after passing the Santa Cruz fort, we saluted it with thirteen guns, which were answered by an equal number from the fort. While we were saluting, it became calm; but with the help of a light breeze that picked up afterward, and the incoming tide, the Sirius was able to get far enough in by seven o'clock to anchor in the harbor of Rio de Janeiro. The convoy also anchored as they arrived, about a mile and a half from the landing area, which turned out to be very convenient.

Our passage from Teneriffe, although rather a long one, had fortunately been unattended with any disease, and the surgeon reported that we had brought in only ninety-five persons sick, comprehending every description of people in the fleet. Many, however, of this number were bending only under the pressure of age and its attendant infirmities, having no other complaints among them.

Our journey from Teneriffe, although quite long, fortunately hadn't been impacted by any illness, and the doctor reported that we had brought in only ninety-five sick people, covering every type of individual in the fleet. However, many of these were primarily struggling with the burdens of old age and its related ailments, with no other health issues among them.

On the morning after our arrival the intendant of the port, with the usual officers, repaired on board the Sirius, requiring the customary certificates to be given, as to what nation she belonged to, whither bound, the name of her commander, and his reason for coming into that port; to all which satisfactory answers were given; and at eleven o'clock the day following Captain Phillip, accompanied by the officers of the settlement, civil and military, waited upon Don Louis Vasconcellos, the viceroy of the Brazils, at his excellency's palace, who received them with much politeness, readily assenting to a tent being pitched on shore for the purpose of an observatory; as well as to the drawing of the Seine in different parts of the bay for fish; only pointing out the restrictions that would be necessary to prevent the sailors from straggling into the country. On their taking leave, it was most politely intimated, that no restraint would be imposed upon the officers, whenever they came on shore to the town, in which they were free to pass wherever they desired. A conduct so opposite to that in general observed to foreigners in this port could by us be attributed only to the great esteem in which Captain Phillip was held here by all ranks of people during the time of his commanding a ship in the Portuguese service; for on being informed of the employment he now held, the viceroy's guard was directed to pay him the same honours during his stay here, that were paid to himself as the representative of the crown of Portugal.

On the morning after we arrived, the port's manager, along with the usual officials, came on board the Sirius to request the standard certificates about our nationality, destination, the name of our captain, and the reason for entering the port. We provided satisfactory answers to all of these. The next day at eleven o'clock, Captain Phillip, along with the civil and military officers of the settlement, visited Don Louis Vasconcellos, the viceroy of Brazil, at his palace. He welcomed them warmly and agreed to set up a tent onshore for an observatory, as well as to survey the Seine in various parts of the bay for fish, with only a few restrictions to keep the sailors from wandering into the countryside. When they took their leave, it was politely indicated that there would be no restrictions on the officers whenever they came ashore to the town, where they were free to go wherever they liked. Such a different approach compared to what is usually shown to foreigners in this port could only be attributed to the high regard in which Captain Phillip was held by everyone here during his time commanding a ship in the Portuguese service. When the viceroy learned of his current position, his guard was instructed to give Captain Phillip the same honors during his stay here that were accorded to the viceroy himself as the representative of the Portuguese crown.

The palace of the viceroy stood in the Royal Square, of which, together with the public prison, the mint, and the opera-house, it formed the right wing. Of these buildings the opera-house alone was shut up; and we were informed, that the gloom which was thrown over the court and kingdom of Portugal by the death of the late king, had extended in full force to the colonies also; all private and public amusements being since that time discouraged as much as possible, the viceroy himself setting the example. Once a week, indeed, his excellency had a music-meeting at the palace for the entertainment of himself and a few select friends; but nothing more.

The viceroy's palace was located in the Royal Square, which, along with the public prison, the mint, and the opera house, made up the right wing. Among these buildings, only the opera house was closed; we were told that the sadness over the late king's death had reached the colonies just as strongly as it had affected the court and kingdom of Portugal. Since then, both private and public entertainment had been discouraged as much as possible, with the viceroy himself leading by example. Once a week, however, his excellency held a music gathering at the palace for his own enjoyment and a few close friends, but nothing more than that.

The town of St. Sebastian (or, as it is more commonly named, the town of Rio de Janeiro, which was in fact the name of the river forming the bay, on the western side of which was built the town) is large, and was originally designed to have had an elevated and airy situation, but was, unfortunately for the inhabitants, erected on low ground along the shore, and in a recess almost wholly out of the reach of the refreshing seabreeze, which was observed to be pretty regular in its visitations. The inhabitants, nevertheless, deemed the air salubrious; and we were informed that epidemic distempers were rare among them. In their streets, however, were frequently seen objects of wretchedness and misery, crawling about with most painful and disgusting swellings in their legs and privities. The hospital, which had formerly been a Jesuit's convent, stood near the summit of the hill, in an open situation, at the back of the town. From the great estimation in which English surgeons were held here, it would seem that the town is not too well provided in that respect. Senor Ildefonse, the principal in the place had studied in England, where he went under the course of surgical education called walking the hospitals, and might by his practice in this place, which was considerable, and quite as much as he could attend to, have soon realised a handsome fortune; but we understood, that to the poor or necessitous sick he always administered gratis.

The town of St. Sebastian, more commonly known as Rio de Janeiro (which is actually the name of the river that forms the bay, on the western side of which the town was built), is large and was originally meant to be located in a higher, breezier spot. Unfortunately for the residents, it was constructed on low ground along the shore, in a hollow area that was mostly sheltered from the refreshing sea breeze that usually came through regularly. Still, the residents believed the air was healthy, and we were told that epidemics were rare among them. However, the streets often showed signs of extreme poverty and suffering, with people seen struggling with painful and disturbing swelling in their legs and groin. The hospital, which used to be a Jesuit convent, was situated near the top of the hill at the back of the town in an open area. Given the high regard for English surgeons here, it seems the town doesn't have enough medical professionals in that field. Señor Ildefonse, the head surgeon in the area, had studied in England, where he completed a surgical training program called walking the hospitals. Through his considerable practice here, which he could manage, he could have easily made a good fortune, but we learned that he always provided care for the poor and needy for free.

The township of the Rio de Janeiro was said to contain on the whole not less than 40,000 people, exclusive of the native Indians and negroes. These last appear to be very numerous, of a strong robust appearance, and are brought from the coast of Guinea, forming an extensive article of commerce. With these people of both sexes the streets were constantly filled, scarcely any other description of people being seen in them. Ladies or gentlemen were never seen on foot in the streets during the day; those whose business or inclination led them out being carried in close chairs, the pole of which came from the head of the vehicle, and rested on the shoulders of the chairmen, having, notwithstanding the gaudiness of the chair itself, a very awkward appearance.

The township of Rio de Janeiro was said to have around 40,000 residents, not including the native Indians and Black people. The latter group seems to be quite numerous, appearing strong and robust, and are brought over from the coast of Guinea, making up a significant part of the trade. The streets were always bustling with these people from both genders, with hardly anyone else seen. Ladies and gentlemen were never spotted walking in the streets during the day; those who had to go out were carried in enclosed chairs, with the pole extending from the front of the chair and resting on the shoulders of the chairmen, which, despite the decorative nature of the chair itself, came off as quite clumsy.

The language spoken here by the white people was that of the mother country--Portuguese. The ecclesiastics in general could converse in Latin; and the negro slaves spoke a corrupt mixture of their own tongue with that of the people of the town. The native Indians retained their own language, and could be distinctly discerned from the natives of Guinea, as well by the colour of the skin, as by the hair and the features of the face. Some few of the military conversed in French; but this language was in general little used.

The language spoken here by the white people was Portuguese, the language of the mother country. The clergy could generally speak in Latin, while the black slaves communicated in a mixed version of their own languages and the local dialect. The Indigenous people kept their own language, and it was easy to tell them apart from the natives of Guinea by their skin color, hair, and facial features. A few soldiers spoke French, but it wasn’t commonly used.

The town appeared to be well supplied with water, which was conveyed into it from a great distance by means of an aqueduct (or carioca) which in one place having to cross a road or public way was raised upon a double row of strong lofty arches, forming an object that from the bay, and at the entrance of the harbour, added considerably to the beauty of the imagery. From this aqueduct the water was received into stone fountains, constructed with capacious basins, whither the inhabitants sent their linen, to have the dirt rather beaten than washed out of it, by slaves. One of these fountains of a modern construction was finished with great taste and neatness of execution.

The town seemed to have a good supply of water, brought in from far away through an aqueduct (or carioca). In one spot, where it had to cross a road, it was elevated on a double row of strong, tall arches, making it a striking feature that enhanced the beauty of the view from the bay and the harbor entrance. The water flowed into stone fountains with large basins, where residents sent their laundry to have the dirt beaten out of it by slaves rather than washed. One of these newer fountains was designed and built with great style and attention to detail.

We also observed several large and rich convents in the town. The chief of these were, the Benedictine and the Carmelite; one dedicated to St. Anthony, another to Our Lady of Assistance, and another to St. Theresa. The two last were for the reception of nuns; and of the two, that of St. Theresa was reported the severest in its religious duties, and the strictest in its restraints and regulations. The convent D. Ajuda, or of Assistance, received as pensioners, or boarders, the widows of officers, and young ladies having lost their parents, who were allowed to remain, conforming to the rules of the convent, until married, or otherwise provided for by their friends. There were many inferior convents and churches, and the whole were under the spiritual direction of a bishop, whose palace was in the town, a short distance from one of the principal convents.

We also saw several large and wealthy convents in the town. The main ones were the Benedictine and the Carmelite; one dedicated to St. Anthony, another to Our Lady of Assistance, and another to St. Theresa. The last two were for nuns; of the two, the one dedicated to St. Theresa was said to be the most severe in its religious duties and the strictest in its rules and regulations. The convent of D. Ajuda, or Assistance, took in pensioners, or boarders, including widows of officers and young women who had lost their parents, allowing them to stay in line with the convent's rules until they got married or were otherwise taken care of by their families. There were many smaller convents and churches, all under the spiritual guidance of a bishop, whose palace was in the town, not far from one of the main convents.

Near the carioca, or aqueduct, stood the seminary of St. Joseph, where the servants of the church received their education, adopting on their entrance the clerical habit and tonsure. The chapel to the seminary was neat, and we were conducted by a sensible well-informed father of the Benedictine Order to a small library belonging to it.

Near the aqueduct, there was the seminary of St. Joseph, where church servants got their education and took on the clerical outfit and tonsure when they started. The chapel at the seminary was tidy, and we were shown around by a knowledgeable and sensible father from the Benedictine Order to a small library that belonged to it.

To a stranger nothing could appear more remarkable than the innumerable religious processions which were to be seen at all hours in this town. At the close of every day an image of the Virgin was borne in procession through the principal streets, the attendants arrayed in white surplices, and bearing in their hands lighted tapers; chanting at the same time praises to her in Latin. To this, as well as to all other religious processions, the guards turned out, grounded their arms, kneeled, and showed the most submissive marks of respect; and the bells of each church or convent in the vicinity of their progress sounded a peal while they were passing.

To a stranger, nothing seemed more impressive than the countless religious processions happening at all hours in this town. Every evening, an image of the Virgin was carried in a procession down the main streets, with attendants dressed in white robes, holding lit candles, and singing praises to her in Latin. During this and all other religious processions, the guards would stand at attention, put their weapons down, kneel, and show the utmost respect; meanwhile, the bells of every church or convent nearby would ring out as they passed.

Every church, chapel, or convent, being under the auspices of some tutelary saint, particular days were set apart as the festival of each, which were opened with public prayers, and concluded with processions, music, and fireworks. The church and altars of the particular saint whose protection was to be solicited were decorated with all the splendor of superstition*, and illuminated both within and without. During several hours after dark, on these solemn festivals, the inhabitants might be seen walking to and from the church, dressed in their best habiliments, accompanied by their children, and attended by their slaves and their carriages.

Every church, chapel, or convent is connected to a specific patron saint, and certain days were designated as the festivals for each one. These festivals started with public prayers and ended with parades, music, and fireworks. The church and altars dedicated to the particular saint being honored were decorated with elaborate displays of superstition and lit up both inside and out. For several hours after dark during these important festivals, people could be seen walking to and from the church, dressed in their finest clothes, along with their children, accompanied by their servants and carriages.

[* We were informed that they never permitted any base metals near their altars, all their vessels, etc. being of the purest gold or silver.]

[* We were told that they never allowed any base metals near their altars, as all their vessels, etc. were made of the purest gold or silver.]

An instance was related to us, of the delay that was thrown in the way of labour by this extravagant parade of public worship, and the strict observance of saints' days, which, though calculated, no doubt, by the glare which surrounds the shrine, and decorates the vesture of its priests, to impress and keep in awe the minds of the lower sort of people, Indians and slaves, had nevertheless been found to be not without its evil effects:

An example was shared with us about how labor was delayed by this extravagant display of public worship and the strict observance of saints' days. Although this is likely designed to impress and intimidate the minds of the less privileged, including Indians and slaves, through the shine surrounding the shrine and the elaborate clothing of its priests, it has still been found to have negative consequences:

A ship from Lisbon, laden chiefly with bale goods, was burnt to the water's edge, with her whole cargo, and much private property, the fourth day after her anchoring in the harbour, owing to the intervention of a sabbath and two saints' days which unfortunately ensued that of her arrival. All that could be done was, to tow the vessel on shore near the Island of Cobres, clear of the shipping in the bay, where grounding, she was totally consumed. One of the passengers, whose whole property was destroyed with her, came out to fill an high judicial employment, and had with all his family removed from Lisbon for that purpose, bringing with him whatever he had valuable in Europe.

A ship from Lisbon, mostly carrying bales, got burned down to the waterline along with its entire cargo and a lot of personal belongings, four days after it docked in the harbor, due to the unfortunate overlap of a Sabbath and two saints' days after its arrival. The only thing that could be done was to tow the vessel to shore near Cobres Island, away from the ships in the bay, where it ran aground and was completely destroyed. One of the passengers, who lost everything with the ship, had come to take on a high judicial position and had moved his entire family from Lisbon for that reason, bringing along whatever valuables he had from Europe.

At a corner of almost every street in the town we observed a small altar, dedicated generally to the Virgin, and decorated with curtains and lamps. Before these altars, at the close of every evening, the negroes assembled to chant their vespers, kneeling together in long rows in the street. The policy of thus keeping the minds of so large a body, as that of the black people in this town, not only in constant employment, but in awe and subjection, by the almost perpetual exercise of religious worship, was too obvious to need a comment. In a colony where the servants were more numerous than the masters, a military, however excellent, ought not to be the only control; to keep the mind in subjection must be as necessary as to provide a check on the personal conduct.

At almost every corner of the town, we noticed a small altar, usually dedicated to the Virgin, adorned with curtains and lamps. Each evening, the Black residents gathered in front of these altars to sing their prayers, kneeling together in long lines on the street. The strategy of keeping such a large group, like the Black community in this town, constantly engaged and instilled with a sense of awe and submission through regular religious practices was too clear to require explanation. In a colony where there were more servants than masters, good military presence alone shouldn't be the only form of control; maintaining mental submission was just as important as regulating personal behavior.

The trades-people of the town have adopted a regulation, which must prove of infinite convenience to strangers, as well as to the inhabitants. We found the people of one profession or trade dwelling together in one, two, or as many streets as were necessary for their numbers to occupy. Thus, for instance, the apothecaries resided in the principal street, or Rua Direita, as it was named; one or more streets were assigned to the jewellers; and a whole district appeared to be occupied by the mercers. By this regulation the labour of traversing from one street to another, in search of any article which the purchaser might wish to have a choice of, was avoided*. Most of the articles were from Europe, and were sold at a high price.

The town’s tradespeople have set up a rule that must be really convenient for both visitors and locals. We noticed that people from the same profession or trade lived close to each other on one or more streets, depending on how many of them there were. For example, the apothecaries lived on the main street, known as Rua Direita; one or more streets were designated for the jewelers; and a whole area was filled with mercers. This setup made it easier to avoid walking from one street to another to find whatever item a buyer wanted to look at. Most of the items were from Europe and sold at a high price.

[* The same useful regulation is observed at Aleppo.]

[* The same helpful rule is followed at Aleppo.]

Houses here were built, after the fashion of the mother-country, with a small wooden balcony over the entrance; but to the eye of one accustomed to the cheerful appearance of glass windows, a certain sombre cast seemed to pervade even their best and widest streets, the light being conveyed through window-frames of close lattice-work. Some of these, indeed, being decorated on the outside with paint and some gilding, rather improved the look of the houses to which they belonged.

Houses here were built in the style of the mother country, featuring a small wooden balcony above the entrance. However, for someone used to the bright look of glass windows, even the best and widest streets had a somewhat gloomy vibe, as light came through window-frames with tight lattice work. Some of these windows, being adorned on the outside with paint and a bit of gold, did enhance the appearance of the houses they belonged to.

The winter, we were informed, was the only season in which the inhabitants could make excursions into the country; for when the sun came to the southward of the Line, the rain, as they most energetically assured us, descended for between two and three months rather in seas than in torrents. At this season they confined themselves to their houses in the town, only venturing out by the unscorching light of the moon, or at those intervals when the rains were moderated into showers. But, though the summer season is so extremely hot, the use of the cold bath, we found, was wholly unknown to the inhabitants.

The winter, we were told, was the only time when the locals could take trips into the countryside; because when the sun moved south of the Equator, the rain, as they passionately explained, fell for about two to three months more like a deluge than in heavy rainfall. During this time, they stayed inside their homes in the town, only going out under the gentle light of the moon or during those times when the rain eased up to light showers. However, even though summer is incredibly hot, we discovered that the locals had no concept of cold baths.

The women of the town of Rio de Janeiro, being born within the tropics, could not be expected to possess the best complexions; but their features were in general expressive--the eye dark and lively, with a striking eye-brow. The hair was dark, and nature had favoured them with that ornament in uncommon profusion: this they mostly wore with powder, strained to a high point before, and tied in several folds behind. By their parents they were early bred up to much useful knowledge, and were generally mistresses of the polite accomplishments of music, singing, and dancing. Their conversation appeared to be lively, at times breaking out in sallies of mirth and wit, and at others displaying judgment and good sense. In their dress for making or receiving visits, they chiefly affected silks and gay colours; but in the mornings, when employed in the necessary duties of the house, a thin but elegant robe or mantle thrown over the shoulders was the only upper garment worn. Both males and females were early taught to dress as men and women; and we had many opportunities of seeing a hoop on a little Donna of three years of age, and a bag and a sword on a Senor of six. This appearance was as difficult to reconcile as that of the saints and virgins in their churches being decorated with powdered perukes, swords, laced clothes, and full-dressed suits.

The women of Rio de Janeiro, being born in the tropics, couldn’t be expected to have perfect complexions; however, their features were generally expressive—with dark, lively eyes and striking eyebrows. Their hair was dark, and nature blessed them with an abundance of it: they mostly styled it with powder, pulled back to a high point in front, and tied in several folds at the back. Their parents raised them with a strong foundation of useful knowledge, and they were usually skilled in the arts of music, singing, and dancing. Their conversations were lively, sometimes bursting into fits of laughter and wit, while at other times showing good judgment and common sense. When dressing for visits, they favored silks and bright colors; but in the mornings, while handling household duties, they only wore a thin yet elegant robe or mantle thrown over their shoulders. Both boys and girls were taught to dress like men and women from a young age; we often saw a little girl of three in a hoop skirt and a boy of six wearing a bag and a sword. This sight was as hard to reconcile as seeing the saints and virgins in their churches adorned with powdered wigs, swords, laced clothing, and full-dress outfits.

Attentions to the women were perhaps carried farther in this place than is customary in Europe. To a lady, in the presence of a gentleman, a servant never was suffered to hand even a glass of water, the gentleman (with a respect approaching to adoration) performing that office; and these gallantries appeared to be received as the homage due to their superior rank in the creation. It was said, indeed, that they were not disinclined to intrigues, but in public the strictest decorum and propriety of behaviour was always observed in the women, single as well as married. At houses where several people of both sexes were met together, the eye, on entering the room, was instantly hurt, at perceiving the female part of the company ranged and seated by themselves on one side, and the gentlemen on the other, an arrangement certainly unfavourable to private or particular conversation. These daughters of the sun should, however, neither be censured nor wondered at, if found indulging in pleasures against which even the constitutions of colder regions are not proof. If frozen chastity be not always found among the children of ice and snow, can she be looked for among the inhabitants of climates where frost was never felt? Yet heartily should she be welcomed wherever she may be found, and doubly prized if met with unexpectedly.

Attention to women here was perhaps taken further than is usual in Europe. In the presence of a man, a servant was never allowed to hand a lady even a glass of water; the man (with a respect bordering on adoration) took on that role. These gestures seemed to be accepted as a sign of reverence for their superior status in society. It was said that they were not averse to flirting, but in public, both single and married women always maintained the strictest decorum and propriety. In gatherings where both men and women were present, it was immediately noticeable that the women sat together on one side while the men occupied the other, an arrangement that certainly made private conversations difficult. These daughters of the sun should neither be judged nor surprised if they were found enjoying pleasures that even those from colder climates cannot resist. If frozen chastity is not always found among the children of ice and snow, can it really be expected among those living in places where frost has never been felt? Still, she should be welcomed wherever she appears and treasured even more if encountered unexpectedly.

The mines, the great source of revenue to the crown of Portugal, and in the government of this place the great cause of jealousy both of strangers and of the inhabitants, were situated more than a week's journey hence, except some which had been lately discovered in the mountains near the town. Sufficient employment was found for the Mint, at which was struck all the coin that was current here, besides what was sent to Europe. The diamond-trade had been for some time taken into the hands and under the inspection of Government; but the jewellers' shops abounded with topazes, chrysolites, and other curious and precious stones.

The mines, a major source of income for the crown of Portugal and a point of jealousy for both outsiders and locals, were located more than a week's journey away, except for a few that had recently been discovered in the mountains near the town. The Mint had plenty of work, producing all the currency used here, along with what was exported to Europe. For a while, the diamond trade had been controlled and supervised by the Government, but the jewelers' shops were filled with topazes, chrysolites, and other unique and valuable stones.

Beside the forts at the entrance of the harbour, there were two others of considerable force, one at either extremity of the place, constructed on islands in the bay. On an eminence behind the town, and commanding the bay, stood the Citadel. The troops in these works were relieved regularly on the last day of every month, previous to which all the military in the garrison passed in review before the viceroy in the quadrangle of the palace. About 250 men with officers in proportion were on duty every day in the town, distributed into different guards, from which sentinels were stationed in various parts of the place, who, to keep themselves alert, challenge and reply to each other every quarter of an hour. In addition to these sentinels, every regiment and every guard sent parties through the streets, patrolling the whole night for the preservation of peace and good order.

Beside the forts at the harbor entrance, there were two other strongholds, one at each end of the area, built on islands in the bay. On a rise behind the town, overlooking the bay, stood the Citadel. The troops stationed at these works were rotated regularly on the last day of each month, before which all the military in the garrison would be reviewed by the viceroy in the courtyard of the palace. About 250 soldiers, with appropriate officers, were on duty every day in the town, divided into different guard units, with sentinels placed at various locations. To stay alert, they would challenge and respond to each other every fifteen minutes. In addition to these sentinels, every regiment and guard would send out patrols through the streets, maintaining peace and order throughout the night.

An officer from each regiment attended every evening at the palace to take orders for the following day, which were delivered by the adjutant of orders, who himself received them directly from the viceroy. At the palace every transaction in the town was known, and thence, through the adjutant of orders, the inhabitants received the viceroy's commands and directions whenever he thought it necessary to guide or regulate their conduct.

An officer from each regiment went to the palace every evening to get orders for the next day. These orders were given by the adjutant of orders, who received them straight from the viceroy. At the palace, they were aware of everything happening in the town, and through the adjutant of orders, the residents received the viceroy’s instructions and guidance whenever he deemed it necessary to steer or manage their behavior.

The regiments that came here from Lisbon had been twenty years in the country, although, on leaving Europe, they were promised to return at the expiration of the third. They were recruited in the Brazils; and such officers as might wish to visit Portugal obtained leave of absence on application to the court, through the viceroy. To each regiment is attached an officer, who is styled an Auditor, and whose office is to inquire into all crimes committed by the soldiers of his regiment. If he sees it necessary, he has power to inflict corporal punishment, or otherwise, as the offender may in his judgment merit; but his authority does not extend either to life or limb. For exercising his employment he is allowed the pay of a captain of infantry.

The regiments that came here from Lisbon had spent twenty years in the country, even though when they left Europe, they were promised they'd return after three years. They were recruited in Brazil, and any officers who wanted to visit Portugal could request a leave of absence from the court through the viceroy. Each regiment has an officer known as an Auditor, whose job is to investigate all crimes committed by the soldiers in his regiment. If he deems it necessary, he has the authority to impose corporal punishment or other penalties based on what he thinks the offender deserves; however, his power does not extend to life or limb. For carrying out his duties, he receives the pay of a captain of infantry.

The barracks for the troops appeared to be commodious, and to be kept in good order. A small number of cavalry were always on duty, employed in the antichamber of the palace, or in attending the viceroy either on days of parade, or in his excursions into the country. A captain's guard of infantry with a standard mounted every day at the palace.

The barracks for the soldiers seemed spacious and well-maintained. A small group of cavalry was always on duty, stationed in the palace's antechamber or accompanying the viceroy during parades or trips into the countryside. A captain’s guard of infantry, with a standard, was posted at the palace every day.

During our stay in this port all the transports struck their yards and top-masts, and overhauled their rigging preparatory to our passage to the Cape of Good Hope. An observatory was erected on the Island of Enchados, where Lieutenant Dawes, with two young gentlemen from the Sirius as assistants, went on shore, taking with them the instruments requisite for ascertaining the exact rate of going of the time-piece; and for making other necessary observations. Sailmakers were also sent to the island; and some of the camp-equipage of the settlement was landed to be inspected and thoroughly aired, with proper guards for its security.

During our time in this port, all the ships lowered their yards and top-masts and checked their rigging in preparation for our journey to the Cape of Good Hope. An observatory was set up on Enchados Island, where Lieutenant Dawes, along with two young gentlemen from the Sirius as assistants, went ashore carrying the necessary instruments to determine the exact accuracy of the timepiece and to make other essential observations. Sailmakers were also sent to the island, and some of the camp equipment from the settlement was unloaded to be inspected and aired out properly, with adequate guards for its security.

Some propensities to the practice of their old vices manifesting themselves among the convicts* soon after their arrival in this port had given them an opportunity, the governor, with the lieutenant-governor, visited the transports, and informed the prisoners, both male and female, that in future any misbehaviour on their part should be attended with severe punishment, while on the other hand propriety of conduct should be particularly distinguished and rewarded with proportionate indulgence.

Some tendencies to engage in their old habits became apparent among the convicts soon after they arrived at this port. Seeing this opportunity, the governor, along with the lieutenant-governor, visited the transports and informed the prisoners, both men and women, that from now on, any misbehavior would result in serious punishment. On the other hand, proper behavior would be specifically recognized and rewarded with appropriate leniency.

[* Counterfeit coin was offered by some of them to a boat which came alongside one of the transports.]

[* Some of them offered a counterfeit coin to a boat that came alongside one of the transports.]

On the 21st, being the birthday of the prince of Brazil, the Sirius, in compliment to the court of Portugal, displayed a Portuguese flag at her fore-top-masthead, and, on the saluting of the fort on the Island of Cobres, saluted also with twenty-one guns. At ten o'clock the same morning, Captain Phillip, with the principal officers of the settlement and garrison. went on shore to pay their compliments to the viceroy in honour of the day, who on this and similar occasions had a court, at which all the civil and military officers and principal inhabitants of the town attended to pay their respects to his excellency as the representative of the sovereign, who received them standing under a canopy in the presence-chamber of the palace.

On the 21st, which is the birthday of the Prince of Brazil, the Sirius honored the Portuguese court by displaying a Portuguese flag at her fore-top-masthead and, in response to the salute from the fort on the Island of Cobres, returned the salute with twenty-one guns. At ten o'clock that same morning, Captain Phillip, along with the key officers of the settlement and garrison, went ashore to pay their respects to the viceroy in celebration of the day. On this occasion, the viceroy held a court where all civil and military officials and main residents of the town came to pay their respects to his excellency as the representative of the sovereign, who received them while standing under a canopy in the palace's presence chamber.

September.] Preparations were now making for putting to sea; and on Saturday the 1st of September, having appointed to sail on the Monday following, the governor, lieutenant-governor, and other officers, waited upon and took leave of the viceroy, who expressed himself in the handsomest terms at their departure.

September.] Preparations were now underway to set sail; and on Saturday, September 1st, with plans to leave the following Monday, the governor, lieutenant-governor, and other officials paid their respects and said goodbye to the viceroy, who spoke very graciously at their departure.

During their stay in this port of refreshment, the convicts were each served daily with a pound of rice and a pound and an half of fresh meat (beef), together with a suitable proportion of vegetables. Great numbers of oranges were at different times distributed among them, and every possible care was taken to refresh and put them into a state of health and condition to resist the attacks of the scurvy, should it make its appearance in the long passage over the ocean which was yet between them and New South Wales. The Reverend Mr. Johnson gave also his full share of attention to their welfare, performing divine service on board two of the transports every Sunday of their stay in port.

During their time in this refreshment port, the convicts were each given a pound of rice and a pound and a half of fresh beef daily, along with a suitable amount of vegetables. A large number of oranges were distributed to them at various times, and every effort was made to rejuvenate them and ensure they were in good health to fend off scurvy, which could hit them during the long voyage across the ocean to New South Wales. The Reverend Mr. Johnson also dedicated his full attention to their well-being, conducting religious services on two of the transports every Sunday while they were in port.

We were unluckily not in season for any other of the fruits of this country than oranges and bananas; but these were truly delicious, and amply compensated, both in quantity and quality, for the want of others. Some few guavas, and a pine-apple or two, were purchased; but we were informed that their flavour then, and when in perfection, was not to be compared. Vegetables (which were brought from the opposite shore) were in great plenty. The beef was small and lean, and sold at about two-pence halfpenny per pound: mutton was in proportion still smaller, and poultry dear, but not ill-tasted. The marketplace was contiguous to the palace.

We were unfortunately out of season for any other fruits from this country besides oranges and bananas; but these were truly delicious and more than made up for the lack of others in both quantity and quality. We bought a few guavas and a couple of pineapples, but we were told that their flavor at that time, compared to when they were perfectly ripe, was not even close. Vegetables, which were brought from the other side, were in abundance. The beef was small and lean, selling for about two and a half pence per pound; mutton was even smaller, and poultry was expensive, but not bad in taste. The marketplace was right next to the palace.

On the evening of Sunday the 2nd of September, a Portuguese boat, just at the close of the day, after once or twice rowing round the Sirius, dropped a soldier of the island on board, who, it appeared from his own account, had been for five or six days absent from his duty, and dreading perhaps to return, or perhaps wishing to change his situation, requested that he might be received on board, and permitted to sail to New Holland with Captain Phillip; who, however, not choosing to comply with his request, caused him to be immediately conveyed on shore in one of the ship's boats; but with great humanity permitted him to be landed wherever he thought he might chance to escape unobserved, and have an opportunity of returning to his duty.

On the evening of Sunday, September 2nd, a Portuguese boat, just as the day was ending, circled the Sirius a couple of times before dropping off a soldier from the island. According to his own story, he had been absent from his duties for five or six days and, perhaps fearing to go back or wanting a change in his circumstances, asked to be allowed on board and to sail to New Holland with Captain Phillip. However, Captain Phillip, not wanting to grant his request, had him taken back to shore immediately in one of the ship's boats. Yet, with great kindness, he allowed the soldier to be set down wherever he thought he could escape unnoticed and have a chance to return to his duties.

An officer was this day sent to signify Captain Phillip's intention of saluting the forts when he took his departure, which would be the following morning, and presuming that an equal number of guns would be fired in return. The viceroy answered, that no mark of attention or respect should on his part be omitted that might testify his esteem for Captain Phillip, and the high sense he entertained of the decorum observed by those under his command during their stay in that port.

An officer was sent today to communicate Captain Phillip's plan to salute the forts when he left, which would be the next morning, expecting that an equal number of guns would be fired in response. The viceroy replied that he would not overlook any gesture of attention or respect to show his admiration for Captain Phillip and the high regard he had for the decorum maintained by those under his command during their time in that port.

The land-wind not blowing on Monday morning, all idea of sailing was given up for that day. In the afternoon the signal was made for unmooring, and for all boats to cease communication with the shore.

The land breeze didn’t blow on Monday morning, so any thoughts of sailing were abandoned for the day. In the afternoon, the signal was given to unmoor and for all boats to stop communicating with the shore.

At day-break the following morning the harbour-master came on board the Sirius, and, a light land breeze favouring her departure, took charge of that ship over the bar; the Supply and convoy getting under sail, and following her out of the bay. When the Sirius arrived nearly abreast of the fort of Santa Cruz, it was saluted with twenty-one guns; a marked compliment paid by the viceroy to Captain Phillip, who immediately returned it with the like number of guns. Shortly after this the harbour-master left the ship, taking with him Mr. Morton, the master of the Sirius, who from ill health was obliged to return to England in the Diana, a whaler, which was lying here on our arrival. By this gentleman were sent the public and private letters of the fleet.

At dawn the next morning, the harbor master boarded the Sirius, and with a light land breeze favoring her departure, took command of the ship as it crossed the bar; the Supply and its convoy set sail, following her out of the bay. When the Sirius got close to the fort of Santa Cruz, it was greeted with a salute of twenty-one guns—a significant honor from the viceroy to Captain Phillip, who immediately reciprocated with the same number of guns. Shortly after this, the harbor master left the ship, taking with him Mr. Morton, the captain of the Sirius, who was forced to return to England on the Diana, a whaler that was docked here when we arrived. This gentleman also sent the public and private letters for the fleet.

The land-breeze carrying us clear of the islands in the offing, the Supply was sent to speak a ship that was perceived at some little distance ahead, and which proved to be a ship from Oporto. By her we learned that the viceroy was superseded in his government, and it was imagined that his successor was standing into the harbour in a royal yacht which we then saw under the land. Toward evening it fell calm, and the islands and high land were still in sight. The calm continued during the greatest part of the following day; but toward evening a light and favourable breeze sprung up, which enabled us to cross the tropic of Capricorn, and bend our course toward the Cape of Good Hope.

The land breeze carried us away from the islands in the distance, and the Supply was sent to communicate with a ship that we noticed a bit ahead, which turned out to be a vessel from Oporto. From her, we learned that the viceroy had been replaced in his position, and it was thought that his successor was approaching the harbor in a royal yacht, which we then saw near the shore. By evening, the air was calm, and the islands and high land were still visible. The calm continued for most of the next day, but by evening, a light and favorable breeze picked up, allowing us to cross the Tropic of Capricorn and set our course toward the Cape of Good Hope.

On the night of Friday the 7th we had heavy squalls of rain, thunder, and lightning. From that time until the 1lth the wind was rather unfavourable; but shifting to the northward on that day, it blew during the two following in strong gales, with squalls of heavy rain, attended with much sea.

On the night of Friday the 7th, we experienced heavy rain showers, thunder, and lightning. From then until the 11th, the wind was somewhat unfavorable; however, it shifted to the north on that day and blew strongly for the next two days, with bursts of heavy rain and significant waves.

These strong gales having, on Friday the 14th, terminated in a calm, Lieutenant Shortland, the day following, reported to the commanding officer, that there were eleven soldiers sick on board the Alexander and five or six convicts on board the Charlotte. The calm continued until the 16th, when a favourable breeze sprung up; but those ships of the fleet which could sail were prevented from making the most of the fair wind, by the Lady Penrhyn transport and others, which were inattentive, and did not make sail in proper time.

These strong winds finally calmed down on Friday the 14th. The following day, Lieutenant Shortland informed the commanding officer that there were eleven soldiers sick on the Alexander and five or six convicts on the Charlotte. The calm weather lasted until the 16th, when a favorable breeze picked up; however, the ships in the fleet that could sail were held back from taking full advantage of the fair wind by the Lady Penrhyn transport and others that were inattentive and failed to set sail on time.

On the 19th the wind was fresh, and frequently blew in squalls, attended with rain. In one of these squalls the Charlotte suddenly hove-to, a convict having fallen overboard; the man, however, was drowned. Our weather was at this time extremely cold; and the wind, which had for some days been unfavourable, shifting on the 22nd, we again looked towards the Cape. At one o'clock the next morning it came on to blow very hard, accompanied with a great sea; we had nevertheless the satisfaction to observe that the convoy appeared to get on very well, though some of them rolled prodigiously. This gale continued with very little variation until the morning of the 28th, when it moderated for a few hours, and shifted round to the SE. It now again blew in fresh gales, attended with much rain and sea. But a calm succeeding all this violence shortly after, on Sunday morning the 30th the weather was sufficiently clear to admit of some altitudes being taken for the time-keeper, when our longitude was found to be 3 degrees 04 minutes.

On the 19th, the wind was strong and often came in squalls with rain. During one of these squalls, the Charlotte suddenly stopped sailing because a convict had fallen overboard; unfortunately, the man drowned. At that time, the weather was extremely cold, and after several days of unfavorable winds, it shifted on the 22nd, leading us to look towards the Cape again. At one o'clock the next morning, the wind picked up significantly, creating a large sea; despite this, we were pleased to see that the convoy was doing well, though some of them were rolling quite a bit. This storm persisted with little change until the morning of the 28th, when it eased up for a few hours and shifted to the southeast. It then picked up again with strong winds, accompanied by a lot of rain and rough seas. However, shortly after this intense weather, there was a calm, and by Sunday morning the 30th, the weather cleared enough to take some altitude readings for the time-keeper, allowing us to determine our longitude at 3 degrees 04 minutes.

October.] Thence to the 4th of October both wind and weather were very uncertain, the wind sometimes blowing in light airs, very little differing from a calm, with clear skies; at others, in fresh breezes, with rain. On the 4th, Captain Phillip was informed that thirty of the convicts on board of the Charlotte were 111; some of them, as it was feared, dangerously. To render this information still more unpleasant, the wind was foul during the two succeeding days.

October.] From there until the 4th of October, both the wind and the weather were quite unpredictable. Sometimes the wind was light, barely different from calm conditions, with clear skies; at other times, there were fresh breezes accompanied by rain. On the 4th, Captain Phillip was informed that thirty of the convicts on board the Charlotte were ill; some were feared to be in serious danger. To make this news even more troubling, the wind was unfavorable for the next two days.

In the forenoon of Saturday the 6th, four seamen of the Alexander transport were sent on board the Sirius, under a charge of having entered into a conspiracy to release some of the prisoners while the ship should be at the Cape of Good Hope, and of having provided those people with instruments for breaking into the fore-hold of the ship (which had been done, and some provisions stolen thereout). The four seamen were ordered to remain in the Sirius, a like number of her people being sent in lieu of them on board the transport.

On the morning of Saturday the 6th, four sailors from the Alexander transport were sent aboard the Sirius because they were accused of conspiring to free some prisoners while the ship was at the Cape of Good Hope, and for supplying those individuals with tools to break into the ship's forehold (which had already happened, resulting in some provisions being stolen). The four sailors were ordered to stay on the Sirius, while an equal number of her crew were sent aboard the transport in their place.

On Thursday the 11th, by an altitude of the sun taken that morning, the fleet was found to be in the longitude of 15 degrees 35 minutes E at which time there was an unfavourable change of the wind, and the sick on board the Charlotte were not decreasing in number.

On Thursday the 11th, by measuring the sun's altitude that morning, the fleet was determined to be at a longitude of 15 degrees 35 minutes E, at which point the wind changed for the worse, and the number of sick people on board the Charlotte was not decreasing.

On the next day, as it was judged from the information given by the time-keeper that we were drawing nigh the land, the Supply was sent forward to make it; but it was not seen until the following morning.

On the next day, based on the information provided by the timekeeper that we were nearing land, the Supply was sent ahead to reach it; however, it wasn't spotted until the next morning.

At noon on the 13th the Supply was sent to instruct the sternmost ships of the convoy in what direction they should keep to enter the bay; and about four in the afternoon, the harbour-master getting on board the Sirius, that ship was brought safely to an anchor in Table Bay, the convoy doing the same before dark; having crossed over from one Continent to the other, a distance of upwards of eleven hundred leagues, in the short space of five weeks and four days, fortunately without separation, or any accident having happened to the fleet.

At noon on the 13th, the Supply was dispatched to guide the ships at the back of the convoy on the best route to enter the bay. Then, around four in the afternoon, the harbor master boarded the Sirius, and that ship was safely anchored in Table Bay, with the rest of the convoy following suit before nightfall. They had crossed from one continent to another, a distance of over eleven hundred leagues, in just five weeks and four days, thankfully without anyone getting lost or any accidents occurring within the fleet.

Immediately on our anchoring, an officer from the Sirius was sent on shore to the governor, who politely promised us every assistance in his power; and at sun-rise the next morning the Sirius saluted the garrison with thirteen guns, which were returned by an equal number from the fort.

Immediately after we dropped anchor, an officer from the Sirius went ashore to meet the governor, who kindly promised us all the help he could give. Then at sunrise the next morning, the Sirius fired thirteen guns to salute the garrison, which were met with the same number from the fort.

From the great uncertainty of always getting readily on shore from the bay, and the refreshments found at the Cape of Good Hope being so necessary after, and so well adapted to the fatigues and disorders consequent on a long voyage, we found it a custom with most strangers on their arrival to take up their abode in the town, with some one or other of the inhabitants, who would for two rix-dollars (eight shillings of English money) or a ducatoon (six shillings English) per week, provide very good lodgings, and a table amply furnished with the best meats, vegetables, and fruits which could be procured at the Cape. This custom was, as far as the nature of our service would admit, complied with by several officers from the ships; and, on the second day after our arrival, Captain Phillip, with the principal officers of the navy and settlement, proceeded to the government-house in the Company's garden, where they were introduced to Mr. Van de Graaf (the governor, for the Dutch East India Company, of this place and its dependencies) and by him politely received.

From the constant uncertainty of getting ashore smoothly from the bay, and the much-needed refreshments at the Cape of Good Hope being so suitable for relieving the fatigue and illnesses that come from a long voyage, we observed that it was common for most newcomers upon their arrival to settle in the town with one of the locals, who would provide good accommodations along with meals fully stocked with the best meats, vegetables, and fruits available at the Cape, for two rix-dollars (which is eight shillings in English currency) or a ducatoon (worth six shillings in English). This practice was, as much as possible given the nature of our duties, followed by several officers from the ships; and on the second day after we arrived, Captain Phillip, along with the main officers of the navy and settlement, went to the government house in the Company's garden, where they were introduced to Mr. Van de Graaf (the governor for the Dutch East India Company of this region and its territories), and he greeted them warmly.

With a requisition made by Captain Phillip of a certain quantity of flour and corn, the governor expressed his apprehensions of being unable to comply, as the Cape had been very lately visited by that worst of scourges--a famine, which had been most severely felt by every family in the town, his own not excepted. This was a calamity which the settlement had never before experienced, and was to be ascribed rather to bad management of, than any failure in, the late crops. Measures were however taking to guard, as much as human precaution could guard, against such a misfortune in future; and magazines were erecting for the reception of grain on the public account, which had never been found necessary until fatal experience had suggested them. Captain Phillip's request was to be laid before the Council, without whose concurrence in such a business the governor could not act, and an answer was promised with all convenient dispatch. This answer, however, did not arrive until the 23rd, when Captain Phillip was informed that every article which he had demanded was ordered to be furnished.

With Captain Phillip requesting a certain amount of flour and corn, the governor shared his concerns about being unable to fulfill the request, as the Cape had recently suffered from a severe famine that affected every family in town, including his own. This was a disaster the settlement had never faced before, largely due to poor management rather than any failure of the recent crops. However, steps were being taken to prevent such a misfortune in the future as much as humanly possible; storage facilities were being built for grain on behalf of the public, which had never seemed necessary until the harsh reality made it clear they were needed. Captain Phillip's request was to be presented to the Council, whose agreement was required for the governor to take action, and a response was promised as soon as possible. However, this response did not arrive until the 23rd, when Captain Phillip was told that every item he requested had been ordered to be supplied.

November.] In the meantime the ships of the fleet had struck their yards and topmasts (a precaution always necessary here to guard against the violence of the south-east wind, which had been often known to drive ships out of the bay) and began filling their water. On board of the Sirius and some of the transports, the carpenters were employed in fitting up stalls for the reception of the cattle that was to be taken hence as stock for the intended colony at New South Wales. These were not ready until the 8th of the next month, November, on which day, 1 bull, 1 bull-calf, 7 cows, 1 stallion, 3 mares, and 3 colts, together with as great a number of rams, ewes, goats, boars, and breeding sows, as room could be provided for, were embarked in the different ships, the bulls and cows on board the Sirius, the horses on board the Lady Penrhyn; the remainder were put into the Fishbourn store-ship and Friendship transport.

November. In the meantime, the ships in the fleet had lowered their yards and topmasts (a precaution that's always needed here to protect against the strong southeast wind, which has often been known to push ships out of the bay) and started filling their water tanks. Onboard the Sirius and some of the transport ships, the carpenters were busy setting up stalls to hold the cattle that would be taken as stock for the planned colony in New South Wales. These weren't ready until the 8th of the following month, November, on which day 1 bull, 1 bull-calf, 7 cows, 1 stallion, 3 mares, and 3 colts, along with as many rams, ewes, goats, boars, and breeding sows as there was space for, were loaded onto the different ships; the bulls and cows were placed on the Sirius, the horses on the Lady Penrhyn, and the rest were put into the Fishbourn store-ship and Friendship transport.

Shortly after our arrival in the bay, a soldier belonging to the Swiss regiment of Muron, quartered here, swam off from his post and came on board one of the transports, requesting to be permitted to proceed in her to New South Wales; but, as an agreement had been mutually entered into between the Dutch and English commanders, that deserters in the service of, or subjects of either nation, should be given up, Captain Phillip sent him on shore, previously obtaining a promise of his pardon from the regiment.

Shortly after we got to the bay, a soldier from the Swiss regiment of Muron, stationed here, swam away from his post and came aboard one of the transports, asking to be allowed to go with her to New South Wales. However, since there was an agreement between the Dutch and English commanders that deserters from either nation should be returned, Captain Phillip sent him back to shore, after securing a promise of his pardon from the regiment.

On the 9th the watering of the fleet being completed, corn and hay for the stock, and flour, wine, and spirits for the settlement, being all on board, preparations were made for putting to sea, and on the 10th the signal was made to unmoor.

On the 9th, after finishing the watering of the fleet and loading corn and hay for the livestock, as well as flour, wine, and spirits for the settlement, we got ready to set sail. On the 10th, the signal was given to unmoor.

The convicts while in this port had been served, men and women, with one pound and an half of soft bread each per diem; a pound of fresh beef, or mutton, and three quarters of a pound for each child, together with a liberal allowance of vegetables.

The convicts at this port were each given a pound and a half of soft bread daily; a pound of fresh beef or mutton, and three-quarters of a pound for each child, along with a generous supply of vegetables.

While in this harbour, as at Rio de Janeiro, Mr. Johnson, the chaplain, preached on board two of the transports every Sunday; and we had the satisfaction to see the prisoners all wear the appearance of perfect health on their being about to quit this port, the last whereat any refreshment was to be expected before their arrival in New South Wales.

While in this harbor, just like in Rio de Janeiro, Mr. Johnson, the chaplain, preached on board two of the transports every Sunday; and we were pleased to see that the prisoners looked perfectly healthy just before leaving this port, the last place where any supplies were expected before they reached New South Wales.

As it was earnestly wished to introduce the fruits of the Cape into the new settlement, Captain Phillip was ably assisted in his endeavours to procure the rarest and the best of every species, both in plant and seed, by Mr. Mason, the king's botanist, whom we were so fortunate as to meet with here, as well as by Colonel Gordon, the commander in chief of the troops at this place; a gentleman whose thirst for natural knowledge amply qualified him to be of service to us, not only in procuring a great variety of the best seeds and plants, but in pointing out the culture, the soil, and the proper time of introducing them into the ground.

As there was a strong desire to bring the fruits of the Cape into the new settlement, Captain Phillip received valuable help in his efforts to gather the finest and rarest plants and seeds from Mr. Mason, the king's botanist, whom we were lucky to meet here, as well as from Colonel Gordon, the commander in chief of the troops in this area; a man whose passion for natural knowledge made him very helpful to us, not just in obtaining a wide variety of the best seeds and plants, but also in advising us on how to grow them, the appropriate soil, and the right time to plant them.

The following plants and seeds were procured here and at Rio de Janeiro:

The following plants and seeds were obtained here and in Rio de Janeiro:

AT RIO DE JANEIRO

Coffee--both seed and plant
Cocoa-in the nut
Cotton-seed
Banana-plant
Oranges--various sorts, seed and plant
Lemon--seed and plant
Guava--seed
Tamarind
Prickly pear-plant, with the cochineal on it
Eugenia, or Pomme Rose--a plant bearing a fruit in shape like an apple,
and having the flavour and odour of a rose
Ipecacuana--three sorts
Jalap

AT THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

The Fig-tree
Bamboo
Spanish Reed
Sugar Cane
Vines of various sorts
Quince
Apple
Pear
Strawberry
Oak
Myrtle

To these must be added all sorts of grain, as Rice, Wheat, Barley,
Indian corn, etc. for seed, which were purchased to supply whatever
might be found damaged of these articles that were taken on board
in England.

AT RIO DE JANEIRO

Coffee—both the seeds and the plant  
Cocoa—in the nut  
Cotton—seed  
Banana—plant  
Oranges—various types, seeds and plants  
Lemon—seeds and plant  
Guava—seed  
Tamarind  
Prickly pear—plant, with cochineal on it  
Eugenia, or Pomme Rose—a plant that produces fruit shaped like an apple, with the flavor and scent of a rose  
Ipecacuanha—three varieties  
Jalap  

AT THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE  

The fig tree  
Bamboo  
Spanish reed  
Sugar cane  
Vines of various types  
Quince  
Apple  
Pear  
Strawberry  
Oak  
Myrtle  

Additionally, all kinds of grain like rice, wheat, barley, Indian corn, etc., for seeds, which were bought to replace any damaged items that were loaded in England.

During our stay here, the Ranger packet, Captain Buchanan, arrived after a passage of twelve weeks from Falmouth, bound to Bengal. She sailed again immediately. One officer alone of our fleet was fortunate enough to receive letters by her from his connexions in England.

During our time here, the Ranger ship, Captain Buchanan, arrived after a twelve-week journey from Falmouth, headed to Bengal. She set sail again right away. Only one officer in our fleet was lucky enough to receive letters from his connections in England through her.

At the time of our arrival the inhabitants of this agreeable town had scarcely recovered from the consternation into which they had been thrown by one of the black people called Malays, with whom the place abounded; and who, taking offence at the governor for not returning him to Batavia (where, it seemed, he was of consequence among his own countrymen, and whence he had been sent to the Cape as a punishment for some offence), worked himself up to frenzy by the effect of opium, and, arming himself with variety of weapons, rushed forth in the dusk of the evening, killing or maiming indiscriminately all who were so unfortunate as to be in his route, women alone excepted. He stabbed the sentinel at the gate of the Company's gardens, and placed himself at his post, waiting some time in expectation of the governor's appearance, who narrowly escaped the fate intended for him, by its falling on another person accidentally passing that way. On being pursued, he fled with incredible swiftness to the Table Mountain at the back of the town, whence this single miscreant, still animated by the effect of the opium, for two days resisted and defied every force that was sent against him. The alarm and terror into which the town was thrown were inconceivable; for two days none ventured from within their houses, either masters or slaves; for an order was issued (as the most likely means of destroying him, should he appear in the town) that whatever Malay was seen in the streets should be instantly killed by the soldiery. On the evening of the second day, however, he was taken alive on the Table Mountain, having done much injury to those who took him, and was immediately consigned to the death he merited, being broken on the wheel, and his head and members severed after the execution, and distributed in different parts of the country.

At the time we arrived, the residents of this pleasant town had hardly recovered from the shock caused by one of the black individuals known as Malays, who were numerous in the area. This person had become furious with the governor for not sending him back to Batavia, where it seemed he held some importance among his fellow countrymen and was sent to the Cape as punishment for some wrongdoing. In his frenzy, fueled by opium, he armed himself with various weapons and charged out into the evening darkness, randomly attacking and injuring anyone unfortunate enough to cross his path, except for women. He stabbed the guard at the entrance of the Company's gardens and took his place, waiting for the governor to appear. The governor narrowly escaped, as the attack fell on another person who happened to pass by. When pursued, he fled with unbelievable speed to Table Mountain behind the town, where this single criminal, still under the influence of the opium, resisted every force sent against him for two days. The fear and panic in the town were unimaginable; for two days, no one dared to leave their homes, whether masters or slaves. An order was given that any Malay seen in the streets should be immediately killed by the soldiers as the best way to stop him if he appeared in town. However, on the evening of the second day, he was captured alive on Table Mountain, having caused significant harm to those who caught him. He was swiftly sentenced to the death he deserved, being broken on the wheel, and afterward, his head and limbs were severed and distributed across different parts of the country.

Of this man, who had killed fourteen of the inhabitants, and desperately wounded nearly double that number, it was remarked, that in his progress his fury fell only on men, women passing him unhurt; and it was as extraordinary as it was unfortunate, that among those whom his rage destroyed, were some of the most deserving and promising young men in the town. This, at Batavia, was called running a muck, or amocke, and frequently happened there, but was the first instance of the kind known at the Cape. Since that time, every Malay or other slave, having business in the street after a certain hour in the evening, is obliged to carry a lighted lantern, on pain of being stopped by the sentinel and kept in custody until morning. Murder and villany are strongly depicted on the features of the slaves of that nation; and such of them as dared to speak of this dreadful catastrophe clearly appeared to approve the behaviour of their countryman.

Of this man, who had killed fourteen residents and seriously injured nearly twice that number, it was noted that in his rampage, his fury targeted only men, while women passed him unharmed. It was as remarkable as it was tragic that among those he killed were some of the most deserving and promising young men in the town. This was referred to in Batavia as running amok, and while such incidents were common there, this was the first known occurrence of its kind at the Cape. Since then, every Malay or other slave who had business in the street after a certain hour in the evening is required to carry a lighted lantern, or else they would be stopped by the guard and held until morning. Murder and wickedness are clearly visible on the faces of the slaves from that nation, and those who dared to discuss this horrific event seemed to approve of their countryman's actions.

The government of the Cape we understood to be vested in a governor and council, together with a court of justice. The council is composed of the governor, the second or lieutenant-governor, the fiscal, the commanding officer of the troops for the time being, and four counsellors. With these all regulations for the management of the colony originate; and from them all orders and decrees are issued. The court of justice is composed of the fiscal, the second governor, a secretary, and twelve members, six of whom are from among the burghers, and six from among the bourgeoisie. The fiscal, who was the first magistrate, had hitherto been styled independent, that is to say, his decisions were not subject to the interference of the governor and council; but we were informed, that since the death of the late fiscal, M. Serrurier, it had been determined by the States, that the decrees of the fiscal should be subject to the revision of the council. Before this officer were tried all causes both civil and criminal. He had a set of people belonging to him who constantly patrolled the streets armed, to apprehend all vagrant and disorderly persons. Every fourteen days offences were tried. The prison was adjacent to and had communication with the court-house. The place where all sentences were executed stood to the left of the landing-place, a short distance above the fort or castle. The ground on which it stood was raised by several steps above the road. Within the walls were to be seen (and seen with horror) six crosses for breaking criminals, a large gibbet, a spiked pole for impalements, wheels, etc., etc. together with a slight wooden building, erected for the reception of the ministers of justice upon execution-days. Over the entrance was a figure of justice, with the usual emblems of a sword and balance, and the following apposite inscription: 'Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum.' The bodies of those broken on the wheel were exposed in different parts of the town, several instances of which, and some very recent ones, were still to be seen.

The government of the Cape is understood to be run by a governor and council, along with a court of justice. The council is made up of the governor, the lieutenant-governor, the fiscal, the current commanding officer of the troops, and four counselors. All regulations for managing the colony come from them, and all orders and decrees are issued by them. The court of justice consists of the fiscal, the lieutenant-governor, a secretary, and twelve members, six of whom are from the burghers and six from the bourgeoisie. The fiscal, who is the chief magistrate, had previously been described as independent, meaning his decisions were not subject to interference from the governor and council; however, we were informed that since the death of the previous fiscal, M. Serrurier, it was decided by the States that the fiscal's decrees would now be subject to review by the council. All civil and criminal cases were tried before this officer. He had a team of people who patrolled the streets armed, ready to apprehend any vagrants and disorderly individuals. Offenses were tried every two weeks. The prison was located next to the court-house and was connected to it. The execution site was to the left of the landing place, just above the fort or castle. The ground where it stood was elevated several steps above the road. Within the walls, there were six crosses for breaking criminals, a large gibbet, a spiked pole for impalements, wheels, and so on, along with a small wooden building set up for the ministers of justice on execution days. Above the entrance was a figure of justice, holding the usual sword and balance, along with the inscription: 'Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum.' The bodies of those broken on the wheel were displayed in various parts of the town, with several instances of this, including some recent ones, still visible.

It had been always imagined, that the police of the Cape-town was so well regulated as to render it next to impossible for any man to escape, after whom the fiscal's people were in pursuit. This, however, did not appear to be the case; for very shortly after our arrival four seamen belonging to a ship of our fleet deserted from her; and although rewards were offered for apprehending them, and every effort made that was likely to insure success, two only were retaken before our departure.

It had always been thought that the police in Cape Town were so well organized that it was nearly impossible for anyone being chased by the authorities to escape. However, this didn’t seem to be true; shortly after we arrived, four sailors from a ship in our fleet deserted. Even though rewards were offered for catching them and every possible effort was made to ensure success, only two were caught before we left.

Since the attempt meditated upon the Cape by the late Commodore Johnstone, the attention of the government appeared to have been directed to its internal defence. To this end additional works had been constructed on each side of the town, toward the hill called the Lion's Rump, and beyond the castle or garrison. But the defence in which they chiefly prided themselves, and of which we were fortunate enough to arrive in time to be spectators, consisted of two corps of cavalry and one of infantry, formed from the gentlemen and inhabltants of the town. We understood that these corps were called out annually to be exercised during seven days, and were reviewed on the last day of their exercise by the governor attended by his whole council. They appeared to be stout and able-bodied men, particularly those who composed the two corps of cavalry, and who were reputed to be excellent marksmen. Their horses, arms, and appointments were purchased at their own expense, and they were expected to hold them selves in readiness to assemble whenever their services might be required by the governor. For uniform, they wore a blue coat with white buttons, and buff waistcoat and breeches. Their parade was the Square or Market-place, where they were attended by music, and visited by all the beauty of the place, who animated them by their smiles from the balcony of the town-hall, and if the weather was favourable accompanied them to the exercising ground, where tents were pitched for their reception, and whence they beheld these patriotic Africans (for few of them knew Holland but by name) enuring themselves to the tolls of war, 'pro aris et focis'. We were however told, that at the least idea of an enemy coming on the coast, the women were immediately sent to a distance in the country.

Since the attempt planned at the Cape by the late Commodore Johnstone, the government's focus seemed to shift towards its internal defense. To this end, additional structures were built on either side of the town, towards the hill known as the Lion's Rump, and beyond the castle or garrison. However, they took the most pride in their defense, which we were fortunate enough to witness in person. This defense consisted of two cavalry units and one infantry unit, made up of the local gentlemen and residents. We learned that these units were called out every year for seven days of training, culminating in a review on the last day by the governor, who was accompanied by his entire council. They seemed to be strong and capable men, especially those in the cavalry units, who were known to be excellent marksmen. Their horses, weapons, and gear were bought at their own expense, and they were expected to be ready to assemble whenever the governor needed them. For their uniform, they wore blue coats with white buttons, along with buff waistcoats and breeches. Their parades took place in the Square or Market-place, where they were accompanied by music and visited by the local women, who cheered them on with smiles from the town-hall balcony. If the weather allowed, these women even followed them to the training ground, where tents were set up for their comfort, and they watched these patriotic Africans (most of whom only knew of Holland by name) preparing for the rigors of war, 'pro aris et focis'. However, we were told that at the first sign of an enemy approaching the coast, the women were quickly sent away to the countryside.

The militia throughout the whole district of the Cape were assembled at this time of the year, exercised for a week, and reviewed by the governor or his deputy, commencing with the militia of the Capetown.

The militia across the entire Cape district gathered at this time of year, trained for a week, and were inspected by the governor or his deputy, starting with the militia from Cape Town.

The present governor of the Cape, Mr. Van de Graaf, though a colonel of engineers in the service of the States, yet holds his commission as governor under the authority of the Dutch East India Company, to which body the settlement wholly belongs. Every ship or vessel wearing a pendant of the States, be her rate what it may, is on entering the harbour saluted by the fort, which salute she returns with an inferior number of guns. The governor, at the landing-place, with his officers and carriages, attends the coming on shore of her captain or senior officer, to receive his commands, and escort him to his lodgings in the town, treating him with every mark of respect in his power. Such an humiliation of the Company's principal servant and officers in a commercial community bore, it must be confessed, rather an extraordinary appearance; but such, as we were informed, was the distinction between the two services; and Mr. Van de Graaf was obliged to obtain his prince's permission before he could accept of the government of the Cape from the East India Company.

The current governor of the Cape, Mr. Van de Graaf, though a colonel of engineers in the service of the States, still holds his role as governor under the authority of the Dutch East India Company, which owns the settlement entirely. Every ship or vessel flying the States’ flag, regardless of its size, is greeted by the fort with a salute upon entering the harbor, which the ship acknowledges with a smaller number of guns. The governor, along with his officers and carriages, waits at the landing area for the arrival of the captain or senior officer, to take their orders and escort them to their accommodations in town, treating them with every possible respect. This subservience of the Company’s main servant and officers in a trade community was, it must be said, rather unusual; but we were told this was the distinction between the two services, and Mr. Van de Graaf had to get permission from his prince before he could accept the governorship of the Cape from the East India Company.

Residence at the Cape would be highly agreeable, were it not for the south-east wind. This during the summer season blows with such violence, and drives every where such clouds of sand before it, that the inhabitants at certain times dare not stir out of their houses. Torrents of dust and sand, we were told, had been frequently known to fall on board of ships in the road. This circumstance accounted for every thing we got here being gritty to the taste; sand mixing with their flour, their rice, their sugar, and with whatever was capable of receiving it, finding its way in at doors, windows, and wherever there was an entrance for it. From the great height of the Table Mountain*, whatever clouds are within its influence are attracted when the south-east wind prevails; and as it increases in violence, these clouds hang over the side of the mountain, and descend into the valley, sometimes rolling down very near the town. From the curling of the vapour over the mountain, the inhabitants predict the arrival of the south-easter, and say, 'The Table-cloth is spread;' but with all its violence, and the inconvenience of the dust and sand, it has a good effect, for the climate and air of the Cape Town (though wonderfully beneficial and refreshing to strangers after a long voyage) is not reckoned salubrious by the inhabitants, who, we understood, were at times visited by pains in the chest, sore throats, and putrid fevers; and the place would certainly be still more unhealthy were it not for this south-east wind, which burns as it blows, and while it sweeps disorder before it purifies the air.

Living at the Cape would be very pleasant if it weren't for the southeast wind. During the summer, it blows so hard and carries so much sand that residents often can’t go outside. We heard that heavy dust and sand have even fallen on ships in the harbor. This explains why everything we eat here tastes gritty; sand gets mixed into their flour, rice, sugar, and anything else it can enter, seeping in through doors, windows, and any openings. Due to the height of Table Mountain*, the clouds that are affected by the southeast wind get drawn in; as the wind picks up, these clouds settle over the mountain and roll down into the valley, sometimes coming very close to the town. The locals can predict the coming of the southeast wind by the way the mist curls over the mountain, saying, "The Tablecloth is spread." However, despite its intensity and the annoyance of the dust and sand, the wind has a positive effect—while the climate and air in Cape Town is refreshing and beneficial to newcomers after a long journey, locals don’t consider it very healthy and sometimes suffer from chest pain, sore throats, and serious fevers. The area would definitely be even more unhealthy without this southeast wind, which is hot as it blows, sweeping away chaos while also cleaning the air.

[* 3353 Rhineland feet--a Rhineland foot being twelve inches and 5/12 English.]

[* 3353 Rhineland feet—one Rhineland foot equals twelve inches and 5/12 of an inch in English measurement.]

The Cape is celebrated for producing in the highest perfection all the tropical and other fruits; but of the few that were in season during our stay we could not pronounce so favourably. The oranges and bananas in particular were not equal to those of Rio de Janeiro. The grape we could only taste from the bottle; that of Constantia, so much famed, has a very fine, rich, and pleasant flavour, and is an excellent cordial; but much of the wine that is sold under that name was never made of the grape of Constantia; for the vineyard is but small, and has credit for a much greater produce that it could possibly yield: this reminds us of those eminent masters in the art of painting, to whom more originals are ascribed than the labour of the longest life of man could produce.

The Cape is known for producing a wide variety of tropical and other fruits at their best, but during our visit, we couldn't say the same for the few that were in season. The oranges and bananas, in particular, didn't measure up to those from Rio de Janeiro. We could only sample the grape from the bottle; the famed Constantia has a very rich, pleasant flavor and is an excellent drink. However, a lot of the wine sold under that name wasn't actually made from Constantia grapes because the vineyard is quite small and gets credited for a much larger yield than it could realistically produce. This reminds us of those great masters in painting, to whom more originals are attributed than any one person could create in a lifetime.

Wines of their own growth formed a considerable article of traffic here; and the neatness, regularity, and extent of their wine-vaults, were extremely pleasing to the eye; but a stranger should not visit more than one of them in a day; for almost every cask has some peculiarity to recommend it, and its contents must be tasted.

Wines produced locally were a significant part of trade here, and the neatness, order, and size of their wine cellars were very appealing to see. However, a visitor shouldn’t check out more than one of them in a day; each cask has its own unique feature that makes it worth trying, and its contents should be sampled.

We found the paper currency here very inconvenient, from its lightness; as more than one instance occurred among ourselves during our stay, of its being torn from our hands by the violence of the south-east wind, when we were about to make a payment in the street, or even at the door of a shop.

We found the paper money here really inconvenient because it’s so light; there were several times during our stay when it got ripped out of our hands by the strong south-east wind just as we were trying to pay in the street or even at the entrance of a shop.

The meat of the Cape was excellent; the black cattle were large, very strong, and remarkable for the great space between their horns. It was not uncommon to see twelve, fourteen, or sixteen oxen yoked in pairs to a waggon, and galloping through the streets of the town, preceded by a Hottentot boy, who accompanied them on foot, conducting the foremost couple by a leathern thong, which caution they are compelled to observe by an order of government, some accidents having formerly happened from some of these large teams having been imprudently driven through the streets without any one to lead them; the lash of the charioteer (for the driver of such a team deserves a more honourable appellation than that of waggoner) had been sometimes heard, we were told, on board of ships in the bay.

The beef from the Cape was amazing; the black cattle were large, very strong, and known for the wide space between their horns. It was common to see twelve, fourteen, or even sixteen oxen yoked in pairs to a wagon, racing through the town's streets, led by a Hottentot boy who walked alongside, guiding the front pair with a leather strap. This practice is required by government regulation since there have been accidents in the past when these large teams were recklessly driven through the streets without anyone leading them; the crack of the driver's whip (since the person steering such a team deserves a more dignified title than "wagon driver") could sometimes be heard from ships in the bay.

The sheep are fat, well-flavoured, and remarkable for the weight and size of their tails. Wonders have been related of them by travellers; but travellers from this part of the world are privileged to exaggerate in their narrations, if they choose so to do; the truth however is, that their tails weigh from eight to sixteen pounds; some few perhaps may be heavier by a pound or two; but though the sheep itself will very well endure the voyage to Europe, yet its tall considerably decreases in size and weight during the passage.

The sheep are plump, flavorful, and notable for the size and weight of their tails. Travelers have shared amazing stories about them; however, travelers from this region often have the privilege to exaggerate in their accounts if they want to. The truth is that their tails weigh between eight to sixteen pounds; a few might be a pound or two heavier. Although the sheep can handle the journey to Europe just fine, the size and weight of their tails decrease significantly during the trip.

Strangers coming into the bay are served with beef, mutton, etc. by the Company's butcher, who contracts to supply the Company, its officers and ships, with meat at a certain price, which is fixed at about three halfpence per pound, although he may have to purchase the cattle at three or four times that sum; but in return for this exaction, he has the sole permission of selling to strangers, and at a much higher price, though even in that instance his demand is not allowed to exceed a certain quota. Four-pence per pound was the price given for all the meat served to our ships after we came in.

Strangers arriving at the bay are provided with beef, mutton, and other meats by the Company’s butcher, who has a contract to supply the Company, its officers, and ships with meat at a set price of about three halfpence per pound, even though he may have to buy the cattle for three or four times that amount. In exchange for this arrangement, he has the exclusive right to sell to strangers at a much higher price, though even then his pricing can’t exceed a certain limit. Four-pence per pound was the cost for all the meat served to our ships after we arrived.

During our stay here we made frequent visits to the Company's garden, pleasantly situated in the midst of the town. The ground on each side of the principal walk, which was from eight to nine hundred paces in length, was laid out in fruit and kitchen gardens, and at the upper end was a paddock where we saw three large ostriches, and a few antelopes. Behind this paddock was a menagerie, which contained nothing very curious--a vicious zebra, an eagle, a cassowary, a falcon, a crowned falcon, two of the birds called secretaries, a crane, a tiger, an hyaena, two wolves, a jackal, and a very large baboon, composed the entire catalogue of its inhabitants.

During our time here, we frequently visited the Company's garden, nicely located in the heart of the town. On each side of the main path, which was about eight to nine hundred steps long, there were fruit and vegetable gardens, and at the far end, there was a paddock where we saw three large ostriches and a few antelopes. Behind this paddock was a small zoo, which didn't have anything particularly interesting—a fierce zebra, an eagle, a cassowary, a falcon, a crowned falcon, two birds called secretary birds, a crane, a tiger, a hyena, two wolves, a jackal, and a very large baboon made up the whole list of its residents.

In the town are two churches, one for the Calvinists, and another for the followers of Luther. In the first of these was a handsome organ; four large plain columns supported the roof, and the walls were ornamented with escutcheons and armorial quarterings. The body of the church was filled with chairs for the women, the men sitting in pews round the sides. By the pulpit stood an hour-glass, which, we were told, regulated the duration of the minister's admonition to his congregation. In the churchyards the gravestones, instead of bearing the names of the deceased, were all numbered, and the names were registered in a book kept for the purpose.

In the town, there are two churches, one for the Calvinists and another for the followers of Luther. The first church had a beautiful organ; four large, plain columns held up the roof, and the walls were decorated with coats of arms and insignias. The main area of the church was filled with chairs for women, while the men sat in pews along the sides. Next to the pulpit was an hourglass, which, we were told, timed the minister's sermons for the congregation. In the churchyards, the gravestones didn’t have the names of the deceased; instead, they were all numbered, and the names were recorded in a book kept for that purpose.

Weddings were always solemnized on a Sunday at one or other of these churches, and the parties were habited in sables, a dress surely more congenial with the sensations felt on the last than on the first day of such an union.

Weddings always took place on a Sunday at one of these churches, and the couples were dressed in black, an outfit that seemed more fitting for the emotions felt on the last day rather than the first day of such a union.

To the care of an officer belonging to a regiment in India, who was returning to Europe in a Danish vessel, Captain Phillip committed his dispatches; and by this ship every officer gladly embraced the last opportunity of communicating with their friends and connections, until they should be enabled to renew their correspondence from the new world to which they were now bound.

To the care of an officer from a regiment in India, who was heading back to Europe on a Danish ship, Captain Phillip entrusted his dispatches. Every officer eagerly took this last chance to communicate with their friends and family until they could start writing again from the new world to which they were now headed.

Nothing remaining to be done that need detain the convoy longer in this port, every article having been procured that could tend to the present refreshment of the colonists, or to the future advantage of the colony, the Sirius was unmoored in the evening of Sunday the llth, Captain Phillip purposing to put to sea the following morning; but the wind at that time not being favourable, the boats from the Sirius were once more sent on shore for a load of water, in order than no vessel which could be filled with an article so essential to the preservation of the flock might be taken to sea empty.

Nothing more needed to be done that would delay the convoy in this port, as everything required for the immediate refreshment of the colonists and the future benefit of the colony had been gathered. The Sirius was unmoored on the evening of Sunday the 11th, with Captain Phillip planning to head out the next morning. However, since the wind was not favorable at that time, the boats from the Sirius were sent ashore again to collect a load of water, so that no vessel essential for the preservation of the crew would leave the port empty.

The south-east wind now beginning to blow, the signal was made for weighing, and at ten minutes before two in the afternoon of Monday the 12th of November the whole fleet was under sail standing out with a fresh of wind to the northward of Robin Island.

The southeast wind started blowing, signaling the crew to weigh anchor. At ten minutes before 2 PM on Monday, November 12th, the entire fleet set sail, heading out with a strong wind north of Robin Island.

It was natural to indulge at this moment a melancholy reflection which obtruded itself upon the mind. The land behind us was the abode of a civilized people; that before us was the residence of savages. When, if ever, we might again enjoy the commerce of the world, was doubtful and uncertain. The refreshments and the pleasures of which we had so liberally partaken at the Cape, were to be exchanged for coarse fare and hard labour at New South Wales. All communication with families and friends now cut off, we were leaving the world behind us, to enter on a state unknown; and, as if it had been necessary to imprint this idea more strongly on our minds, and to render the sensation still more poignant, at the close of the evening we spoke a ship from London*. The metropolis of our native country, its pleasures, its wealth, and its consequence, thus accidentally presented to the mind, failed not to afford a most striking contrast with the object now principally in our view.

It felt natural to indulge in a sad reflection that crept into our minds. The land behind us was home to a civilized people; the land ahead was the home of savages. When, if ever, we might again enjoy the trade of the world was uncertain. The snacks and pleasures we had enjoyed so generously at the Cape would be traded for rough food and hard work in New South Wales. With all communication with family and friends cut off, we were leaving the world behind to enter an unknown state; and, as if it was necessary to make this idea stick in our minds and to intensify the feeling, at the end of the evening we spotted a ship from London*. The capital of our homeland, its pleasures, wealth, and significance, thus unexpectedly came to mind, starkly contrasting with the reality we were now facing.

[* The Kent--southern whaler.]

[* The Kent--southern whaling ship.]

Before we quitted the Cape Captain Hunter determined the longitude of the Cape-town in Table-bay to be, by the mean of several sets of lunar observations taken on board the Sirius, 18 degrees 23 minutes 55 seconds east from Greenwich.

Before we left the Cape, Captain Hunter calculated the longitude of Cape Town in Table Bay to be, based on several lunar observations taken on board the Sirius, 18 degrees 23 minutes 55 seconds east of Greenwich.

SECTION III

Every precaution being absolutely necessary to guard against a failure of water on board the different ships, the whole were put upon an allowance of three pints per man per diem soon after our departure from the Cape. This regulation was highly proper, as from the probable continuance of the easterly wind which then blew, the fleet might be detained a considerable time at sea.

Every precaution was essential to prevent a water shortage on the various ships, so everyone was limited to three pints per person per diem shortly after we left the Cape. This rule was very appropriate, as the easterly wind that was blowing could hold the fleet at sea for a significant period.

For several days after we had sailed, the wind was unfavourable, and blowing fresh, with much sea, some time elapsed before we had reached to the eastward of the Cape of Good Hope. On the 16th, Captain Phillip signified his intention of proceeding forward in the Supply, with the view of arriving in New South Wales so long before the principal part of the fleet, as to be able to fix on a clear and proper place for the settlement. Lieutenant Shortland was at the same time informed, that he was to quit the fleet with the Alexander, taking on with him the Scarborough and Friendship transports. These three ships had on board the greater part of the male convicts, whom Captain Phillip had sanguine hopes of employing to much advantage, before the Sirius, with that part of the fleet which was to remain under Captain Hunter's direction, should arrive upon the coast. This separation, the first that had occurred, did not take place until the 25th, on which day Captain Phillip went on board the Supply, taking with him, from the Sirius, Lieutenants King and Dawes, with the time-keeper. On the same day Major Ross, with the adjutant and quarter-master of the detachment, went into the Scarborough, in order to co-operate with Captain Phillip in his intention of preparing, as far as time might allow, for the reception of the rest of the convoy.

For several days after we set sail, the wind was against us and strong, with rough seas, and it took us a while to get past the Cape of Good Hope. On the 16th, Captain Phillip expressed his plan to continue on the Supply, aiming to arrive in New South Wales well ahead of the rest of the fleet, so he could find a suitable location for the settlement. Lieutenant Shortland was also informed that he would be leaving the fleet with the Alexander, taking the Scarborough and Friendship transports with him. These three ships carried most of the male convicts, whom Captain Phillip hoped to utilize effectively before the Sirius and the part of the fleet under Captain Hunter's command arrived on the coast. This separation, the first of its kind, happened on the 25th, when Captain Phillip boarded the Supply with Lieutenants King and Dawes and the time-keeper from the Sirius. That same day, Major Ross, along with the adjutant and quarter-master of the detachment, boarded the Scarborough to help Captain Phillip prepare, as much as time allowed, for the arrival of the rest of the convoy.

The Supply and the three transports having taken their departure, Captain Hunter drew his little convoy into the order of sailing prescribed for them; and the boats, which had been employed passing and repassing between the Sirius and the transports, being hoisted in, about noon the fleet made sail to the south-east, having a fresh breeze at west-north-west.

The Supply and the three transports set off, and Captain Hunter organized his small convoy for sailing. The boats that had been constantly going back and forth between the Sirius and the transports were pulled in, and around noon, the fleet sailed southeast with a nice breeze coming from the west-northwest.

December.] On Sunday the 16th of December, by computation, we were abreast of the Island of St. Paul, passing it at the distance of about sixty leagues.

December.] On Sunday, December 16th, according to our calculations, we were parallel to St. Paul Island, passing it at a distance of about sixty leagues.

The following day, on the return of a boat from the Fishbourn store-ship which had been sent to inquire into the state of the stock, we heard that several of the sheep were dead, as well as eight of the hogs belonging to the public stock.

The next day, when a boat returned from the Fishbourn supply ship that had been sent to check on the stock, we learned that several sheep had died, along with eight of the hogs belonging to the public stock.

Christmas day found us in the latitude of 42 degrees 10 minutes south, and steering, as we had done for a considerable time, an east-south-east course. We complied, as far as was in our power, with the good old English custom, and partook of a better dinner this day than usual; but the weather was too rough to admit of much social enjoyment.

Christmas Day found us at a latitude of 42 degrees 10 minutes south, continuing on an east-south-east course as we had for quite a while. We did our best to follow the good old English tradition and enjoyed a nicer dinner today than usual; however, the weather was too rough for much social enjoyment.

With the wind at south-west, west-south-west, and south and by west, the weather was clear and cold, while to the northward of east or west it generally blew in strong gales.

With the wind coming from the southwest, west-southwest, and south by west, the weather was clear and cold, while to the north of east or west, it usually blew in strong gales.

We now often noticed pieces of sea-weed floating by the ships; and on the 28th the sun just appeared in time to show us we were in the latitude of 42 degrees 58 minutes south.

We often spotted bits of seaweed floating past the ships, and on the 28th, the sun came out just in time to reveal that we were at a latitude of 42 degrees 58 minutes south.

On the 29th, being in latitude 43 degrees 35 minutes south, the course was altered to east and by south half south, in order to run down our easting without going any further to the southward. The run at noon on this day was found to be the greatest we had made in any twenty-four hours since our departure from England, having 182 miles on the log-board since twelve o'clock the preceding day.

On the 29th, at a latitude of 43 degrees 35 minutes south, we changed our course to east and slightly south. This was to cover more distance east without going any further south. At noon on this day, we recorded our longest distance traveled in a 24-hour period since leaving England, with 182 miles logged since twelve o'clock the previous day.

By lunar observations taken on the 30th the longitude was found to be 118 degrees 19 minutes east.

By lunar observations taken on the 30th, the longitude was determined to be 118 degrees 19 minutes east.

1788.]

1788.

January.] The new year opened with a gale of wind from the northward, which continued with much violence all the day, moderating towards evening.

January.] The new year started with a strong north wind that blew fiercely throughout the day, calming down by the evening.

The evening of the third proved fine and moderate, and the sun setting clear gave a good observation for the amplitude, when the variation was found to be 1 degree 00 minutes east. At noon the fleet was in the latitude of 44 degrees 00 minutes south, and longitude by lunar observation 135 degrees 32 minutes east, of which the convoy was informed.

The evening of the third was pleasant and moderate, and the clear sunset provided a good opportunity for measuring the amplitude, revealing that the variation was 1 degree 00 minutes east. At noon, the fleet was at a latitude of 44 degrees 00 minutes south and longitude by lunar observation of 135 degrees 32 minutes east, which the convoy was informed about.

At noon on the 4th preparations were made on board the Sirius for falling in with the land; her cables were bent, signal-guns prepared, and every possible precautions taken to ensure the safety of the fleet.

At noon on the 4th, preparations were underway on the Sirius for making contact with the land; her cables were secured, signal guns were ready, and every possible precaution was taken to ensure the safety of the fleet.

About ten at night on the 5th, a very beautiful aurora australis was observed bearing about south-west of the fleet; and for some nights a luminous phenomenon had been seen resembling lights floating on the surface of the water.

About ten at night on the 5th, a stunning aurora australis was spotted roughly southwest of the fleet; and for several nights, a glowing phenomenon had been noticed that looked like lights drifting on the surface of the water.

By a lunar observation taken at ten o'clock of the forenoon of Monday the 7th, the fleet was then distant seventeen leagues from the South Cape of New Holland; and at five minutes past two in the afternoon the signal was made for seeing the land. The rocks named the Mewstone and Swilly were soon visible, and the fleet stood along shore with fair moderate weather and smooth water, the land of New Holland distant from three to five miles.

By a moon observation taken at 10 o'clock in the morning on Monday the 7th, the fleet was then 17 leagues away from the South Cape of New Holland. At 2:05 in the afternoon, the signal was made to indicate that land was sighted. The rocks called the Mewstone and Swilly quickly became visible, and the fleet moved along the shore with pleasant, moderate weather and calm water, with the land of New Holland 3 to 5 miles away.

Nothing could more strongly prove the excellence and utility of lunar observations, than the accuracy with which we made the land in this long voyage from the Cape of Good Hope, there not being a league difference between our expectation of seeing it, and the real appearance of it.

Nothing could better demonstrate the value and usefulness of lunar observations than the accuracy with which we spotted land on this long voyage from the Cape of Good Hope, as there was hardly a league of difference between when we expected to see it and when it actually appeared.

A thick haze hanging over the land, few observations could be made of it. What we first saw was the South-west Cape of New Holland, between which and the South Cape the land appeared high and rocky, rising gradually from the shore, and wearing in many places a very barren aspect. In small cavities, on the summit of some of the high land, was the appearance of snow. Over the South Cape the land seemed covered with wood; the trees stood thick, and the bark of them appeared in general to have a whitish cast. The coast seemed very irregular, projecting into low points forming creeks and bays, some of which seemed to be deep; very little verdure was any where discernible; in many spots the ground looked arid and sterile. At night we perceived several fires lighted on the coast, at many of which, no doubt, were some of the native inhabitants, to whom it was probable our novel appearance must have afforded matter of curiosity and wonder.

A thick haze hung over the land, making it hard to see much. The first thing we noticed was the South-west Cape of New Holland, which was located between it and the South Cape. The land looked high and rocky, gradually rising from the shore, and in many places appeared very barren. In some small pockets at the top of the elevated areas, there was a hint of snow. Over the South Cape, the land appeared to be forested; the trees were dense, and their bark generally had a whitish hue. The coastline was quite irregular, with low points jutting out to form creeks and bays, some of which looked deep; there was very little greenery visible; in many areas, the ground seemed dry and lifeless. At night, we noticed several fires lit along the coast, near which, no doubt, were some of the native inhabitants, who were likely curious and amazed by our unusual appearance.

In all the preceding passage we had been scarcely a day without seeing birds of different kinds; and we also met with many whales. The weather was in general very rough, and the sea high, but the wind favourable, blowing mostly from north-west to south-west.

In all the previous passages, we hardly went a day without seeing various types of birds, and we also encountered many whales. The weather was generally quite rough, and the sea was high, but the wind was favorable, mostly blowing from the northwest to the southwest.

The convoy behaved well, paying more attention and obedience to signals than ships in the merchant service are commonly known to do. The ships, however, began to grow foul, not one of them being coppered, and we now anxiously wished for a termination of the voyage, particularly as the hay provided for the horses was on the point of being wholly expended.

The convoy did well, showing more attention and obedience to signals than merchant ships usually do. However, the ships started to get dirty, none of them being copper-bottomed, and we were now eagerly hoping for the end of the voyage, especially since the hay for the horses was about to run out.

The fair wind which had accompanied us to New Holland suddenly left us, shifting round to north-east and by east; we were obliged to lay our heads off-shore, in order to weather Swilly and the Eddystone (a perpendicular rock about a league to the eastward of Swilly) and the next day we had the mortification of a foul wind, a thing to which we had been long unaccustomed.

The good wind that had helped us reach New Holland suddenly turned, shifting to north-east and by east; we had to steer away from the shore to get around Swilly and the Eddystone (a tall rock about a league east of Swilly), and the next day we faced the frustration of a headwind, something we hadn't dealt with for a long time.

In the night of the 9th the Golden Grove shipped a sea, which stove in all her cabin windows: it was nearly calm at the time, with a confused heavy swell*.

In the night of the 9th, the Golden Grove encountered a wave that smashed in all her cabin windows; it was almost calm at the time, with a mixed heavy swell*.

[* This circumstance has since occurred to other ships nearly in the same situation.]

[* This situation has happened to other ships almost exactly like this one.]

At two o'clock in the afternoon of the following day a very heavy and sudden squall took the Sirius and laid her considerably down on her starboard side: it blew very fresh, and was felt more or less by all the transports, some of which suffered in their sails.

At two o'clock in the afternoon the next day, a strong and sudden storm hit the Sirius, tipping her significantly onto her right side. The wind was really strong and was felt to varying degrees by all the transport ships, some of which had damage to their sails.

Our progress along the coast to the northward was very slow, and it was not until the 19th that we fell in with the land, when we were nearly abreast of the Point named by Captain Cook Red Point. Before evening, however, we were gratified with the sight of the entrance into Botany Bay, but too late to attempt standing into it with the transports that night. The convoy therefore was informed by Captain Hunter how the entrance of the bay bore, and directed to be very attentive in the morning when the Sirius made sail or bore up.

Our progress along the coast to the north was very slow, and it wasn't until the 19th that we spotted land, just about in line with the point Captain Cook called Red Point. However, before evening, we were pleased to see the entrance to Botany Bay, but it was too late to try to enter it with the transports that night. Captain Hunter informed the convoy about the bay's entrance and instructed them to pay close attention in the morning when the Sirius set sail or changed course.

When the morning came we found the fleet had been carried by a current to the southward as far as a clump of trees which had the preceding day obtained, from some resemblance in the appearance, the name of Post-down Clump; but with the assistance of a fine breeze we soon regained what we had lost in the night; and at ten minutes before eight in the morning the Sirius came to an anchor in Botany Bay. The transports were all safe in by nine o'clock.

When morning arrived, we discovered that the current had drifted the fleet southward to a group of trees that had been named Post-down Clump the day before due to their resemblance in appearance. However, with a nice breeze helping us, we quickly made up for the distance we had lost overnight. At ten minutes before eight in the morning, the Sirius dropped anchor in Botany Bay, and by nine o'clock, all the transports were safely in.

AN ACCOUNT OF THE ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW SOUTH WALES

CHAPTER I

Arrival of the fleet at Botany Bay
The governor goes to Port Jackson, where it’s decided to establish the settlement
Two French ships led by M. de la Perouse arrive at Botany Bay
The Sirius and its convoy arrive at Port Jackson
Activities
Disembarkation
Commission and letters patent read
Extent of the territory of New South Wales
Behavior of the convicts
The criminal court meets twice
Overview of the different courts
The Supply sent with some settlers to Norfolk Island
Activities
Natives
Weather

When the Sirius anchored in the bay, Captain Hunter was informed that the Supply had preceded him in his arrival only two days; and that the agent Lieutenant Shortland, with his detachment from the fleet, had arrived but the day before the Sirius and her convoy.

When the Sirius docked in the bay, Captain Hunter was told that the Supply had arrived just two days earlier, and that the agent Lieutenant Shortland, along with his group from the fleet, had come in just the day before the Sirius and her convoy.

Thus, under the blessing of God, was happily completed, in eight months and one week, a voyage which, before it was undertaken, the mind hardly dared venture to contemplate, and on which it was impossible to reflect without some apprehensions as to its termination. This fortunate completion of it, however, afforded even to ourselves as much matter of surprise as of general satisfaction; for in the above space of time we had sailed five thousand and twenty-one leagues; had touched at the American and African Continents; and had at last rested within a few days sail of the antipodes of our native country, without meeting any accident in a fleet of eleven sail, nine of which were merchantmen that had never before sailed in that distant and imperfectly explored ocean: and when it is considered, that there was on board a large body of convicts, many of whom were embarked in a very sickly state, we might be deemed peculiarly fortunate, that of the whole number of all descriptions of persons coming to form the new settlement, only thirty-two had died since their leaving England, among whom were to be included one or two deaths by accidents; although previous to our departure it was generally conjectured, that before we should have been a month at sea one of the transports would have been converted into an hospital ship. But it fortunately happened otherwise; the high health which was apparent in every countenance was to be attributed not only to the refreshments we met with at Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope, but to the excellent quality of the provisions with which we were supplied by Mr. Richards junior, the contractor; and the spirits visible in every eye were to be ascribed to the general joy and satisfaction which immediately took place on finding ourselves arrived at that port which had been so much and so long the subject of our most serious reflections, the constant theme of our conversations.

Thus, with God's blessing, we happily completed a voyage in eight months and one week—one that we hardly dared to think about before we set out and that was impossible to reflect on without some worry about how it would end. This fortunate accomplishment surprised us as much as it satisfied us; in that time, we had sailed five thousand and twenty-one leagues, stopped at the American and African continents, and finally found ourselves just a few days' sail from the opposite side of the world from our home, without encountering any accidents in a fleet of eleven ships, nine of which were merchant vessels that had never sailed in that distant and barely explored ocean before. Considering there was a large group of convicts on board, many of whom were sick when we left, we were particularly fortunate that of all the people making the new settlement, only thirty-two had died since we left England, and this included one or two who died from accidents; before we left, it was commonly thought that within a month at sea, one of the transport ships would have become a hospital ship. Thankfully, that didn't happen; the good health visible on everyone’s face was due not just to the supplies we received in Rio de Janeiro and at the Cape of Good Hope, but also to the excellent quality of the provisions provided by Mr. Richards junior, the contractor. The joy evident in everyone's eyes came from the general happiness and satisfaction we felt upon arriving at the port that had been the focus of our most serious thoughts and discussions for so long.

The governor, we found, had employed the time he had been here in examining the bay, for the purpose of determining where he should establish the settlement; but as yet he had not seen any spot to which some strong objection did not apply. Indeed, very few places offered themselves to his choice, and not one sufficiently extensive for a thousand people to sit down on. The southern shore about Point Sutherland seemed to possess the soil best adapted for cultivation, but it was deficient in that grand essential fresh water, and was besides too confined for our numbers. There was indeed a small run of water there; but it appeared to be only a drain from a marsh, and by no means promised that ample or certain supply which was requisite for such a settlement as ours. The governor, therefore, speedily determined on examining the adjacent harbours of Port Jackson and Broken Bay, in one of which he thought it possible that a better situation for his young colony might be found. But as his search might possibly prove fruitless, and that the few days which it should occupy might not be altogether thrown away, he left the lieutenant-governor at Botany Bay, with instructions to clear the ground about Point Sutherland, and make preparations for disembarking the detachment of marines and the convicts on his return, should that place at last be deemed the most eligible spot. At the same time Lieutenant King, of the Sirius, was directed to examine such parts of the bay as, from want of time, the governor had not himself been able to visit.

The governor had spent his time here looking over the bay to figure out where to set up the settlement; however, he hadn’t found any location that didn’t have some major drawback. In fact, very few suitable spots came up for him, and none were large enough for a thousand people to settle. The southern shore near Point Sutherland seemed to have the best soil for farming, but it lacked a crucial resource: fresh water, and it was also too cramped for our numbers. There was a small stream there, but it seemed more like a drainage from a marsh and didn't promise the ample, reliable water supply needed for our settlement. Therefore, the governor quickly decided to check out the nearby harbors of Port Jackson and Broken Bay, where he hoped to find a better site for his young colony. But since this search might be unproductive and the few days it would take shouldn't be completely wasted, he left the lieutenant-governor at Botany Bay with orders to clear the area around Point Sutherland and prepare for the arrival of the marines and convicts upon his return, should that location prove to be the best option. At the same time, Lieutenant King of the Sirius was tasked with exploring parts of the bay that the governor hadn’t had time to visit himself.

The governor set off on Monday the 21st, accompanied by Captain Hunter, Captain Collins (the judge-advocate), a lieutenant, and the master of the Sirius, with a small party of marines for their protection, the whole being embarked in three open boats. The day was mild and serene, and there being but a gentle swell without the mouth of the harbour, the excursion promised to be a pleasant one. Their little fleet attracted the attention of several parties of the natives, as they proceeded along the coast, who all greeted them in the same words, and in the same tone of vociferation, shouting every where 'Warra, warra, warra' words which, by the gestures that accompanied them, could not be interpreted into invitations to land, or expressions of welcome. It must however be observed, that at Botany Bay the natives had hitherto conducted themselves sociably and peaceably toward all the parties of our officers and people with whom they had hitherto met, and by no means seemed to regard them as enemies or invaders of their country and tranquillity*.

The governor set off on Monday the 21st, accompanied by Captain Hunter, Captain Collins (the judge-advocate), a lieutenant, and the master of the Sirius, along with a small group of marines for their protection, all aboard three open boats. The day was mild and calm, and with just a gentle swell at the harbor entrance, the trip promised to be enjoyable. Their small fleet caught the attention of several groups of locals as they traveled along the coast, who all greeted them with the same words and in the same loud tone, shouting everywhere 'Warra, warra, warra,' which, judging by their gestures, could not be interpreted as invitations to land or expressions of welcome. However, it should be noted that in Botany Bay, the locals had so far behaved sociably and peacefully toward all the groups of our officers and people they had encountered and did not seem to view them as enemies or intruders in their land and peace.

[* How grateful to every feeling of humanity would it be could we conclude this narrative without being compelled to say, that these unoffending people had found reason to change both their opinions and their conduct!]

[* How grateful would every sense of humanity be if we could end this story without having to say that these innocent people found a reason to change both their views and their behavior!]

The coast, as the boats drew near Port Jackson, wore so unfavourable an appearance, that Captain Phillip's utmost expectation reached no farther than to find what Captain Cook, as he passed by, thought might be found, shelter for a boat. In this conjecture, however, he was most agreeably disappointed, by finding not only shelter for a boat, but a harbour capable of affording security to a much larger fleet than would probably ever seek for shelter or security in it. In one of the coves of this noble and capacious harbour, equal if not superior to any yet known in the world, it was determined to fix the settlement; and on the 23rd, having examined it as fully as the time would allow, the governor and his party left Port Jackson and its friendly and peaceful inhabitants (for such he everywhere found them), and returned to Botany Bay.

The coastline, as the boats approached Port Jackson, looked quite uninviting, so Captain Phillip only hoped to find what Captain Cook had thought might be available: a place for a boat to take shelter. However, he was pleasantly surprised to discover not just a spot for a boat, but a harbor that could safely accommodate a much larger fleet than would likely ever seek refuge there. In one of the coves of this impressive and spacious harbor, which was on par with or even better than any known in the world, it was decided to establish the settlement. On the 23rd, after examining it as thoroughly as time allowed, the governor and his team left Port Jackson and its friendly and peaceful inhabitants (as he found them everywhere) and returned to Botany Bay.

In the report, of the survey made by Lieutenant King, during the governor's absence, the latter found nothing to induce him to alter his resolution of fixing in Port Jackson: directions were therefore given, that the necessary supply of water and grass for the stock should be immediately sent off to the ships, and the next morning was appointed for their departure from Botany Bay.

In the report from the survey conducted by Lieutenant King during the governor's absence, the governor found nothing to change his decision to settle in Port Jackson. Instructions were given to immediately send the necessary supply of water and grass for the livestock to the ships, and the next morning was set for their departure from Botany Bay.

Several trees had been cut down at Point Sutherland, a saw-pit had been dug, and other preparations made for disembarking, in case the governor had not succeeded as, to the great satisfaction of every one, it was found he had; for had he been compelled to remain in Botany Bay, the swampy ground every where around it threatened us with unhealthy situations; neither could the shipping have ridden in perfect security when the wind blew from the SE to which the bay lay much exposed, the sea at that time rolling in with a prodigious swell. A removal therefore to Port Jackson was highly applauded, and would have taken place the next morning, but at daylight we were surprised by the appearance of two strange sail in the offing. Of what nation they could be, engaged the general wonder for some time, which at last gave way to a conjecture that they might be the French ships under M. de la Perouse, then on a voyage round the world. This was soon strengthened by the view of a white pendant, similar in shape to that of a commodore in our service, and we had no longer a doubt remaining that they were the ships above mentioned. They were, however, prevented by a strong southerly current from getting into the bay until the 26th, when it was known that they were the Boussole and Astrolabe, French ships, which sailed, under the command of M. de la Perouse, from France in the year 1785, on a voyage of discovery. As Captain Hunter, with whom the governor had left the charge of bringing the Sirius and transports round to Port Jackson (whither he had preceded them in the Supply the day before), was working out when M. de la Perouse entered Botany Bay, the two commanders had barely time to exchange civilities; and it must naturally have created some surprise in M. de la Perouse to find our fleet abandoning the harbour at the very time he was preparing to anchor in it: indeed he afterwards said, that until he had looked round him in Botany Bay, he could not divine the cause of our quitting it, which he was so far from expecting, that having heard at Kamschatka of the intended settlement, he imagined he should have found a town built and a market established; but from what he had seen of the country since his arrival, he was convinced of the propriety and absolute necessity of the measure. M. de la Perouse sailed into the harbour by Captain Cook's chart of Botany Bay, which lay before him on the binnacle; and we had the pleasure of hearing him more than once pay a tribute to our great circumnavigator's memory, by acknowledging the accuracy of his nautical observations.

Several trees had been cut down at Point Sutherland, a saw-pit had been dug, and other preparations made for unloading, just in case the governor hadn't succeeded, which, to everyone's great satisfaction, he did. If he had been forced to stay in Botany Bay, the swampy ground all around would have posed health risks for us; plus, the ships wouldn't have been able to ride safely when the wind came from the southeast, as the bay was quite exposed, with the sea rolling in with huge swells at that time. A move to Port Jackson was therefore highly praised and was set to happen the next morning, but at daybreak, we were surprised to see two strange sails in the distance. The mystery of their nationality puzzled everyone for a while, but eventually led to speculation that they might be French ships under M. de la Perouse, who was on a voyage around the world. This guess was soon confirmed when we saw a white pendant resembling the one used by our commodore, leaving no doubt that they were indeed the ships mentioned. However, a strong southerly current prevented them from entering the bay until the 26th, when it was confirmed they were the Boussole and Astrolabe, French ships that had set sail from France in 1785 under M. de la Perouse for a discovery mission. When Captain Hunter, who the governor had entrusted with bringing the Sirius and the transports to Port Jackson (having arrived there himself in the Supply the day before), was making his way out just as M. de la Perouse entered Botany Bay, the two commanders had little time to exchange pleasantries. It must have surprised M. de la Perouse to find our fleet leaving the harbor just as he was getting ready to anchor there; in fact, he said later that until he looked around Botany Bay, he couldn't understand why we were leaving it. He was so far from expecting this that after hearing about the planned settlement in Kamschatka, he thought he would find a town built and a market established. However, after what he observed of the country upon his arrival, he became convinced that our decision to leave was completely justified and necessary. M. de la Perouse sailed into the harbor using Captain Cook's chart of Botany Bay, which was open on the binnacle before him, and we were pleased to hear him acknowledge the accuracy of our great circumnavigator's observations more than once.

The governor, with a party of marines, and some artificers selected from among the seamen of the Sirius and the convicts, arrived in Port Jackson, and anchored off the mouth of the cove intended for the settlement on the evening of the 25th; and in the course of the following day sufficient ground was cleared for encamping the officer's guard and the convicts who had been landed in the morning. The spot chosen for this purpose was at the head of the cove, near the run of fresh water, which stole silently along through a very thick wood, the stillness of which had then, for the first time since the creation, been interrupted by the rude sound of the labourer's axe, and the downfall of its ancient inhabitants; a stillness and tranquillity which from that day were to give place to the voice of labour, the confusion of camps and towns, and 'the busy hum of its new possessors.' That these did not bring with them, 'Minds not to be changed by time or place,' was fervently to have been wished; and if it were possible, that on taking possession of Nature, as we had thus done, in her simplest, purest garb, we might not sully that purity by the introduction of vice, profaneness, and immorality. But this, though much to be wished, was little to be expected; the habits of youth are not easily laid aside, and the utmost we could hope in our present situation was to oppose the soft harmonising arts of peace and civilisation to the baneful influence of vice and immorality.

The governor, along with a group of marines and some workers chosen from the crew of the Sirius and the convicts, arrived in Port Jackson and anchored off the entrance of the cove designated for the settlement on the evening of the 25th. The following day, enough land was cleared to set up camp for the officer's guard and the convicts who had been landed that morning. The location selected for this purpose was at the head of the cove, near a fresh water stream that quietly flowed through a dense forest, which had for the first time since its creation been disturbed by the harsh sound of axes and the fall of its ancient trees. This peace and quiet would soon be replaced by the noise of labor, the hustle and bustle of camps and towns, and 'the busy hum of its new inhabitants.' It was fervently hoped that they did not bring with them 'Minds not to be changed by time or place,' and that, in taking possession of nature in her simplest, purest form, we might avoid corrupting that purity with vice, profanity, and immorality. However, while this was much to wish for, it was unlikely; the habits of youth are hard to break, and the most we could hope for in our current circumstances was to counter the harmful effects of vice and immorality with the gentle, unifying arts of peace and civilization.

In the evening of this day the whole of the party that came round in the Supply were assembled at the point where they had first landed in the morning, and on which a flag-staff had been purposely erected and an union jack displayed, when the marines fired several vollies; between which the governor and the officers who accompanied him drank the healths of his Majesty and the Royal Family, and success to the new colony. The day, which had been uncommonly fine, concluded with the safe arrival of the Sirius and the convoy from Botany Bay--thus terminating the voyage with the same good fortune that had from its commencement been so conspicuously their friend and companion.

In the evening of this day, the entire group that arrived on the Supply gathered at the spot where they had first landed in the morning, where a flagpole had been intentionally set up

The disembarkation of the troops and convicts took place from the following day until the whole were landed. The confusion that ensued will not be wondered at, when it is considered that every man stepped from the boat literally into a wood. Parties of people were every where heard and seen variously employed; some in clearing ground for the different encampments; others in pitching tents, or bringing up such stores as were more immediately wanted; and the spot which had so lately been the abode of silence and tranquillity was now changed to that of noise, clamour, and confusion: but after a time order gradually prevailed every where. As the woods were opened and the ground cleared, the various encampments were extended, and all wore the appearance of regularity.

The disembarkation of the troops and convicts took place from the next day until everyone was landed. The chaos that followed isn't surprising when you think about the fact that each person stepped off the boat right into a forest. Groups of people were seen and heard everywhere, busy with different tasks; some were clearing ground for the various camps, others were setting up tents, or bringing in supplies that were urgently needed. The area that had recently been quiet and peaceful was now filled with noise, shouting, and chaos; but after a while, order gradually took over everywhere. As the woods were cleared and the ground opened up, the different camps expanded, and everything started to look more organized.

February.] A portable canvas house, brought over for the governor, was erected on the East side of the cove (which was named Sydney, in compliment to the principal secretary of state for the home department) where also a small body of convicts was put under tents. The detachment of marines was encamped at the head of the cove near the stream, and on the West side was placed the main body of the convicts. The women did not disembark until the 6th of February; when, every person belonging to the settlement being landed, the numbers amounted to 1030 persons. The tents for the sick were placed on the West side, and it was observed with concern that their numbers were fast increasing. The scurvy, that had not appeared during the passage, now broke out, which, aided by a dysentery, began to fill the hospital, and several died. In addition to the medicines that were administered, every species of esculent plants that could be found in the country were procured for them; wild celery, spinach, and parsley, fortunately grew in abundance about the settlement; those who were in health, as well as the sick, were very glad to introduce them into their messes, and found them a pleasant as well as wholesome addition to the ration of salt provisions.

February. A portable canvas house, set up for the governor, was built on the East side of the cove (named Sydney in honor of the principal secretary of state for the home department), where a small group of convicts was also placed under tents. The detachment of marines was camped at the head of the cove near the stream, while the main group of convicts was situated on the West side. The women didn't disembark until the 6th of February; when everyone belonging to the settlement had landed, the total came to 1,030 people. The tents for the sick were set up on the West side, and it was concerning to see their numbers quickly rising. The scurvy, which hadn't shown itself during the voyage, now broke out, compounded by dysentery, which began to fill the hospital, resulting in several deaths. Along with the medicines provided, every type of edible plant available in the area was gathered for them; wild celery, spinach, and parsley grew in abundance around the settlement. Both the healthy and the sick were eager to include these in their meals and found them to be a tasty and nutritious addition to the diet of salt provisions.

The public stock, consisting of one bull, four cows, one bull-calf, one stallion, three mares, and three colts (one of which was a stone-colt) were landed on the East point of the cove, where they remained until they had cropped the little pasturage it afforded; and were then removed to a spot at the head of the adjoining cove, that was cleared for a small farm, intended to be placed under the direction of a person brought out by the governor.

The livestock, which included one bull, four cows, one bull calf, one stallion, three mares, and three colts (one of them was a stone colt), were unloaded at the East point of the cove, where they stayed until they had grazed all the limited pasture available. They were then moved to a location at the top of the nearby cove that had been cleared for a small farm, meant to be managed by someone brought over by the governor.

Some ground having been prepared near his excellency's house on the East side, the plants from Rio-de-Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope were safely brought on shore in a few days; and we soon had the satisfaction of seeing the grape, the fig, the orange, the pear, and the apple, the delicious fruits of the Old, taking root and establishing themselves in our New World.

Some ground was prepared near the governor's house on the east side, and the plants from Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope were successfully brought ashore in just a few days. We soon had the pleasure of seeing grapes, figs, oranges, pears, and apples—the delicious fruits of the Old World—taking root and settling in our New World.

As soon as the hurry and tumult necessarily attending the disembarkation had a little subsided, the governor caused his Majesty's commission, appointing him to be his captain-general and governor in chief in and over the territory of New South Wales and its dependencies, to be publicly read, together with the letters patent for establishing the courts of civil and criminal judicature in the territory, the extent of which, until this publication of it, was but little known even among ourselves. It was now found to extend from Cape York (the extremity of the coast to the northward) in the latitude of 20 degrees 37 minutes South, to the South Cape (the southern extremity of the coast) in the latitude of 43 degrees 39 minutes South; and inland to the westward as far as 135 degrees of East longitude, comprehending all the islands adjacent in the Pacific Ocean, within the latitudes of the above-mentioned capes.

As soon as the chaos and excitement of disembarking calmed down a bit, the governor had his Majesty's commission, appointing him as the captain-general and chief governor of New South Wales and its territories, publicly read. He also announced the letters patent for establishing the civil and criminal courts in the area, which, until this announcement, were not very well understood even by us. It was revealed that the territory stretched from Cape York (the northernmost point of the coast) at 20 degrees 37 minutes South latitude, to the South Cape (the southernmost point of the coast) at 43 degrees 39 minutes South latitude, and inland to the west as far as 135 degrees East longitude, including all the nearby islands in the Pacific Ocean between the latitudes of these two capes.

By this definition of our boundaries it will be seen that we were confined along the coast of this continent to such parts of it solely as were navigated by Captain Cook, without infringing on what might be claimed by other nations from the right of discovery. Of that right, however, no other nation has chosen to avail itself. Whether the western coast is unpromising in its appearance, or whether the want of a return proportioned to the expense which the mother-country must sustain in supporting a settlement formed nearly at the farthest part of the globe, may have deterred them, is not known; but Great Britain alone has followed up the discoveries she had made in this country, by at once establishing in it a regular colony and civil government.

By this definition of our boundaries, it’s clear that we were limited along the coast of this continent to only those areas explored by Captain Cook, without stepping on claims from other nations based on the right of discovery. However, no other nation has chosen to take advantage of that right. It’s unclear whether the western coast looks unpromising or if the lack of a return that justifies the costs the mother country would have to bear to support a settlement at such a remote location has held them back; what we do know is that only Great Britain has continued the discoveries it made in this country by promptly establishing a regular colony and civil government here.

The ceremony of reading these public instruments having been performed by the judge-advocate, the governor, addressing himself to the convicts, assured them, among other things, that 'he should ever be ready to show approbation and encouragement to those who proved themselves worthy of them by good conduct and attention to orders; while on the other hand, such as were determined to act in opposition to propriety, and observe a contrary conduct, would inevitably meet with the punishment which they deserved.' He remarked how much it was their interest to forget the habits of vice and indolence in which too many of them had hitherto lived; and exhorted them to be honest among themselves, obedient to their overseers, and attentive to the several works in which they were about to be employed. At the conclusion of this address three volleys were fired by the troops, who thereupon returned to their parade, where the governor, attended by Captain Hunter and the principal officers of the settlement, passed along the front of the detachment, and received the honours due to a captain-general; after which he entertained all the officers and gentlemen of the settlement at dinner, under a large tent pitched for the purpose at the head of the marine encampment.

The judge-advocate carried out the ceremony of reading these public documents, and the governor, speaking to the convicts, assured them that he would always be ready to show approval and encouragement to those who demonstrated they were deserving of it through good behavior and following orders. On the other hand, those who chose to act inappropriately and behave badly would surely face the consequences they deserved. He pointed out that it was in their best interest to leave behind the habits of laziness and wrongdoing that many of them had lived with until now. He urged them to be honest with each other, obedient to their supervisors, and focused on the various tasks they were about to undertake. At the end of his speech, the troops fired three volleys, and then returned to their formation. The governor, accompanied by Captain Hunter and the main officers of the settlement, walked in front of the troops and received the honors appropriate for a captain-general. After that, he hosted all the officers and gentlemen of the settlement for dinner under a large tent set up for the occasion at the front of the marine camp.

The convicts had been mustered early in the morning, when nine were reported to be absent. From the situation which we had unavoidably adopted, it was impossible to prevent these people from straggling. Fearless of the danger which must attend them, many had visited the French ships in Botany Bay, soliciting to be taken on board, and giving a great deal of trouble. It was soon found that they secreted at least one-third of their working tools, and that any sort of labour was with difficulty procured from them.

The prisoners were gathered early in the morning, and nine of them were reported missing. Given the situation we were in, it was impossible to stop these people from wandering off. Despite the risks, many had gone to the French ships in Botany Bay, asking to be taken on board and causing a lot of problems. It soon became clear that they were hiding at least a third of their tools, making it hard to get any work out of them.

The want of proper overseers principally contributed to this. Those who were placed over them as such were people selected from among themselves, being recommended by their conduct during the voyage; few of these, however, chose to exert the authority that was requisite to keep the gangs at their labour, although assured of meeting with every necessary support. Petty thefts among themselves began soon to be complained of; the sailors from the transports, although repeatedly forbidden, and frequently punished, still persisted in bringing spirits on shore by night, and drunkenness was often the consequence.

The lack of proper supervisors mainly caused this issue. The people appointed to oversee them were picked from among themselves, based on how they acted during the journey; however, few of them were willing to use the authority needed to keep the groups working, even though they were promised all the support they needed. Soon, complaints about petty thefts among themselves started to arise; the sailors from the transport ships, despite being repeatedly forbidden and often punished, continued to bring alcohol ashore at night, which often led to drunkenness.

To check these enormities, the court of criminal judicature was assembled on the 11th of February, when three prisoners were tried; one for an assault, of which being found guilty, he was sentenced to receive one hundred and fifty lashes; a second, for taking some biscuit from another convict, was sentenced to a week's confinement on bread and water, on a small rocky island near the entrance of the cove; and a third, for stealing a plank, was sentenced to receive fifty lashes, but, being recommended to the governor, was forgiven.

To address these serious offenses, the criminal court convened on February 11th, when three prisoners were tried; one for assault, and after being found guilty, he was sentenced to receive one hundred and fifty lashes; the second, for taking some biscuits from another inmate, was sentenced to a week's confinement on bread and water on a small rocky island near the cove's entrance; and the third, for stealing a plank, was sentenced to receive fifty lashes but, due to a recommendation to the governor, was pardoned.

The mildness of these punishments seemed rather to have encouraged than deterred others from the commission of greater offences; for before the month was ended the criminal court was again assembled for the trial of four offenders, who had conceived and executed a plan for robbing the public store during the time of issuing the provisions. This crime, in its tendency big with evil to our little community, was rendered still more atrocious by being perpetrated at the very time when the difference of provisions, which had till then existed, was taken off, and the convict saw the same proportion of provision issued to himself that was served to the soldier and the officer, the article of spirits only excepted. Each male convict was that day put upon the following weekly ration of provisions, two-thirds of which was served to the female convicts, viz 7 pounds of biscuit; 1 pound of flour; 7 pounds of beef, or 4 pounds of pork; 3 pints of peas; and 6 ounces of butter.

The leniency of these punishments seemed to encourage rather than discourage others from committing more serious crimes. By the end of the month, the criminal court was convened again for the trial of four offenders who had planned and carried out a robbery of the public store while provisions were being distributed. This crime, which posed a significant threat to our small community, was made even more heinous because it occurred at the same time that the previous disparity in provisions was eliminated, and the convicts received the same amount of provisions as the soldiers and officers, except for alcoholic beverages. Each male convict was assigned the following weekly ration of provisions that day, with the females receiving two-thirds of that amount: 7 pounds of biscuits; 1 pound of flour; 7 pounds of beef or 4 pounds of pork; 3 pints of peas; and 6 ounces of butter.

It was fair to suppose that so liberal a ration would in itself have proved the security of the store, and have defended it from depredation; but we saw with concern, that there were among us some minds so habitually vicious that no consideration was of any weight with them, nor could they be induced to do right by any prospect of future benefit, or fear of certain and immediate punishment. The charge being fully proved, one man, James Barrett, suffered death: his confederates were pardoned, on condition of their being banished from the settlement. Another culprit was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes; but, not appearing so guilty as his companions, was pardoned by the governor, the power of pardoning being vested in him by his Majesty's commission.

It seemed reasonable to think that such a generous supply would have ensured the safety of the store and protected it from theft; however, we were troubled to see that some among us had such a deeply ingrained tendency toward wrongdoing that no argument could sway them, nor could they be motivated to act rightly by the promise of future rewards or the threat of immediate punishment. After a thorough investigation, one man, James Barrett, was executed; his accomplices were granted pardons on the condition that they leave the settlement. Another offender was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes, but since he didn’t seem as guilty as the others, he was pardoned by the governor, who had the authority to grant pardons as per his Majesty's commission.

His excellency, having caused one example to be made, extended lenity to some others who were tried the following day; and one convict, James Freeman, was pardoned on condition of his becoming the public executioner.

His excellency, after setting an example, showed mercy to some others who were tried the next day; and one convict, James Freeman, was pardoned on the condition that he would become the public executioner.

It appeared by the letters patent under the great seal of Great Britain, which were read after the governor's commission, that 'the appointment of the place to which offenders should be transported having been vested in the crown by an act of parliament, his Majesty, by two several orders in council, bearing date the 6th of December 1786, had declared, that certain offenders named in two lists annexed to the orders in council should be transported to the eastern coast of New Holland, named New South Wales, or some one or other of the islands adjacent:' and it being deemed necessary that a colony and civil government should be established in the place to which such felons should be transported, and that a court of criminal jurisdiction should also be established therein, with authority to proceed in a more summary way than is used within the realms of Great Britain, according to the known and established laws thereof, his Majesty, by the 27th Geo. 3. cap. 56. was enabled to authorise, by his commission under the great seal, 'the governor, or in his absence the lieutenant-governor of such place, to convene from time to time, as occasion may require, a court of criminal jurisdiction, which court is to be a court of record, and is to consist of the judge-advocate and such six officers of the sea and land service as the governor shall, by precept issued under his hand and seal, require to assemble for that purpose.' This court has power to inquire of, hear, determine, and punish all treasons, misprisions of treasons, murders, felonies, forgeries, perjuries, trespasses, and other crimes whatsoever that may be committed in the colony; the punishment for such offences to be inflicted according to the laws of England as nearly as may be, considering and allowing for the circumstances and situation of the settlement and its inhabitants. The charge against any offender is to be reduced into writing, and exhibited by the judge-advocate: witnesses are to be examined upon oath, as well for as against the prisoner; and the court is to adjudge whether he is guilty or not guilty by the opinion of the major part of the court. If guilty, and the offence is capital, they are to pronounce judgment of death, in like manner as if the prisoner had been convicted by the verdict of a jury in England, or of such corporal punishment as the court, or the major part of it, shall deem meet. And in cases not capital, they are to adjudge such corporal punishment as the majority of the court shall determine. But no offender is to suffer death, unless five members of the court shall concur in adjudging him to be guilty, until the proceedings shall have been transmitted to England, and the king's pleasure signified thereupon. The provost-marshal is to cause the judgment of the court to be executed according to the governor's warrant under his hand and seal.

It was stated in the official documents under the great seal of Great Britain, which were read after the governor's commission, that 'the authority to decide where offenders would be sent has been given to the crown by an act of parliament. His Majesty, through two separate orders in council dated December 6, 1786, declared that certain offenders listed in two attached lists would be transported to the eastern coast of New Holland, now called New South Wales, or to some nearby islands.' It was considered necessary to establish a colony and civil government at the location to which these offenders would be sent, and a court of criminal jurisdiction was also to be set up there, with the power to operate in a quicker manner than what is practiced within Great Britain, based on its established laws. His Majesty, through the 27th Geo. 3. cap. 56, was given the authority to appoint, via his commission under the great seal, 'the governor, or in his absence, the lieutenant-governor of that area, to convene as needed a court of criminal jurisdiction, which is a court of record, consisting of the judge-advocate and six officers from the sea and land forces as required by the governor through a written order.' This court has the power to investigate, hear, decide on, and punish all acts of treason, misprision of treason, murder, felonies, forgery, perjury, trespasses, and any other crimes committed in the colony; penalties for such offenses will be imposed according to English laws as closely as possible while considering the circumstances and situation of the settlement and its residents. The charges against any offender must be documented and presented by the judge-advocate: witnesses will be sworn in to testify for and against the prisoner; and the court will determine whether the individual is guilty or not guilty based on the majority opinion. If found guilty of a capital offense, they will impose a death sentence, just as if the prisoner had been convicted by a jury in England, or they will determine some form of corporal punishment as deemed appropriate by the court or its majority. In non-capital cases, they will decide on corporal punishment as determined by the majority of the court. However, no offender will be sentenced to death unless five members of the court agree on their guilt, and this is contingent upon the proceedings being sent to England and the king's approval being received. The provost-marshal will ensure that the court's judgment is carried out according to the governor's authorization under his signature and seal.

The resemblance of this to the military courts may be easily traced in some particulars. The criminal court is assembled, not at stated times, but whenever occasion may require. It is composed of military officers (the judge-advocate excepted, whose situation is of a civil nature) who assemble as such in their military habits, with the insignia of duty, the sash and the sword. Their judgments are to be determined by the majority; and the examination of the witnesses is carried on by the members of the court, as well as by the judge-advocate. But in other respects it differs from the military courts. The judge-advocate is the judge or president of the court; he frames and exhibits the charge against the prisoner, has a vote in the court, and is sworn, like the members of it, well and truly to try and to make true deliverance between the king and the prisoner, and give a verdict according to the evidence.

The similarities between this and military courts can be easily seen in certain aspects. The criminal court meets not at regular intervals, but whenever necessary. It is made up of military officers (except for the judge-advocate, whose role is civilian) who gather in their military attire, wearing the symbols of their duty, like the sash and sword. Decisions are made based on the majority; both the court members and the judge-advocate question the witnesses. However, there are notable differences from military courts. The judge-advocate serves as the judge or president of the court; they prepare and present the charges against the defendant, have a vote in the court, and, like the other members, are sworn to fairly evaluate the situation and deliver an accurate verdict based on the evidence.

When the state of the colony and the nature of its inhabitants are considered, it must be agreed, that the administration of public justice could not have been placed with so much propriety in any other hands. The outward form of the court, as well as the more essential part of it, are admirably calculated to meet the characters and disposition of the people who form the major part of the settlement. As long confinement would be attended with a loss of labour, and other evils, the court is assembled within a day or two after the apprehension of any prisoner whose crime is of such magnitude as to call for a criminal proceeding against him. He is brought before a court composed of a judge and six men of honour, who hear the evidence both for and against him, and determine whether the crime exhibited be or be not made out; and his punishment, if found guilty, is adjudged according to the laws of England, considering and allowing for the situation and circumstances of the settlement and its inhabitants; which punishment, however, after all, cannot be inflicted without the ratification of the governor under his hand and seal.

When you consider the state of the colony and the nature of its inhabitants, it's clear that the administration of public justice couldn't have been better placed in anyone else's hands. The structure of the court, as well as its core functions, are perfectly suited to the traits and attitudes of the people who make up most of the settlement. Since long incarceration would lead to a loss of labor and other issues, the court meets within a day or two after the arrest of any prisoner whose crime warrants a criminal proceeding. The accused is brought before a court made up of a judge and six respectable individuals, who evaluate the evidence for and against him and decide whether the crime has been proven or not. If he is found guilty, his punishment is determined according to the laws of England, while also taking into account the unique situation and circumstances of the settlement and its inhabitants. However, this punishment can only be carried out with the governor's approval, under his hand and seal.

Beside this court for the trial of criminal offenders, there is a civil court, consisting of the judge-advocate and two inhabitants of the settlement, who are to be appointed by the governor; which court has full power to hear and determine in a summary way all pleas of lands, houses, debts, contracts, and all personal pleas whatsoever, with authority to summon the parties upon complaint being made, to examine the matter of such complaint by the oaths of witnesses, and to issue warrants of execution under the hand and seal of the judge-advocate. From this court, on either party, plaintiff or defendant, finding himself or themselves aggrieved by the judgment or decree, an appeal lies to the governor, and from him, where the debt or thing in demand shall exceed the value of three hundred pounds, to the king in council: but these appeals must be put in, if from the civil court, within eight days, and if from the governor or superior court, within fourteen days after pronouncing the said judgments.

Next to the criminal court for trying offenders, there’s a civil court made up of the judge-advocate and two local residents appointed by the governor. This court has the authority to quickly handle all cases related to land, property, debts, contracts, and personal claims of any kind. They can summon the parties when a complaint is made, investigate the complaint with witness testimonies, and issue execution warrants signed and sealed by the judge-advocate. If either party, whether the plaintiff or defendant, feels wronged by the court’s decision, they can appeal to the governor. If the amount in question is over three hundred pounds, they can appeal from the governor to the king in council. However, these appeals must be submitted within eight days if coming from the civil court and within fourteen days if coming from the governor or superior court after the judgments are made.

To this court is likewise given authority to grant probates of wills and administration of the personal estates of intestates dying within the settlement. But as property must be acquired in the country before its rights can come into question, few occasions of assembling this court can occur for many years.

To this court is also given the authority to grant probates of wills and manage the personal estates of people who die without a will within the settlement. However, since property must be owned in the country before its rights can be challenged, there will be few reasons to convene this court for many years.

In addition to these courts for the trial of crimes, and the cognisance of civil suits, the governor, the lieutenant-governor, and the judge-advocate for the time being, are by his Majesty's letters patent constituted justices for the preservation of the peace of the settlement, with the same power that justices of the peace have in England within their respective jurisdictions. And the governor, being enabled by his Majesty's commission, soon after our arrival, caused Augustus Alt esq. (the surveyor-general of the territory) to be sworn a justice of the peace, for the purpose of sitting once a week, or oftener as occasion might require, with the judge-advocate, to examine all offences committed by the convicts, and determine on and punish such as were not of sufficient importance for trial by the criminal court.

In addition to the courts for criminal trials and civil cases, the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the judge-advocate at the time are appointed as justices to maintain peace in the settlement through His Majesty's official letters, holding the same authority as justices of the peace in England within their areas. Shortly after our arrival, the governor, authorized by His Majesty's commission, had Augustus Alt, Esq. (the surveyor-general of the territory) sworn in as a justice of the peace. He was tasked with meeting once a week, or more often if needed, with the judge-advocate to review all offenses committed by the convicts and to decide on and punish those that were not serious enough for the criminal court.

There is also a vice-admiralty court for the trial of offences committed upon the high seas, of which the lieutenant-governor is constituted the judge, Mr. Andrew Miller the registrar, and Mr. Henry Brewer the marshall. The governor has, beside that of captain-general, a commission constituting him vice-admiral of the territory; and another vesting him with authority to hold* general courts-martial, and to confirm or set aside the sentence. The major-commandant of the detachment had the usual power of assembling regimental or battalion courts-martial for the trial of offences committed by the soldiers under his command.

There’s also a vice-admiralty court for handling crimes committed on the high seas, with the lieutenant-governor serving as the judge, Mr. Andrew Miller as the registrar, and Mr. Henry Brewer as the marshal. In addition to being captain-general, the governor has a commission that makes him the vice-admiral of the territory, as well as another that gives him the authority to hold general courts-martial and to approve or overturn sentences. The major-commandant of the detachment has the usual authority to convene regimental or battalion courts-martial to try offenses committed by the soldiers under his command.

[* Captain Collins, the judge-advocate of the settlement, had also a warrant from the Admiralty appointing him judge-advocate to the marine detachment.]

[* Captain Collins, the judge-advocate of the settlement, also had a warrant from the Admiralty appointing him judge-advocate for the marine detachment.]

By this account of the different modes of administering and obtaining justice, which the legislature provided for this settlement, it is evident that great care had been taken on our setting out, to furnish us with a stable foundation whereon to erect our little colony, a foundation which was established in the punishment of vice, the security of property, and the preservation of peace and good order in our community.

By this description of the various ways to administer and obtain justice that the legislature set up for this settlement, it’s clear that a lot of thought was put into giving us a solid foundation for our little colony. This foundation was built on punishing wrongdoing, protecting property, and maintaining peace and order in our community.

The governor having also received instructions to establish a settlement at Norfolk Island, the Supply sailed for that place about the middle of the month of February, having on board Lieutenant King of the Sirius, named by Capt. Phillip superintendant and commandant of the settlement to be formed there. Lieutenant King took with him one surgeon (Mr. Jamieson, surgeon's mate of the Sirius), one petty officer (Mr. Cunningham, also of the Sirius), two private soldiers, two persons who pretended to some knowledge of flax-dressing, and nine male and six female convicts, mostly volunteers. This little party was to be landed with tents, clothing for the convicts, implements of husbandry, tools for dressing flax, etc. and provisions for six months; before the expiration of which time it was designed to send them a fresh supply.

The governor also got orders to set up a settlement at Norfolk Island, so the Supply headed there around mid-February, carrying Lieutenant King from the Sirius, who was assigned by Captain Phillip as the superintendent and commander of the new settlement. Lieutenant King brought along one surgeon (Mr. Jamieson, the surgeon's mate from the Sirius), one petty officer (Mr. Cunningham, also from the Sirius), two private soldiers, two people who claimed to know about flax-dressing, and nine male and six female convicts, most of whom volunteered. This small group was set to be landed with tents, clothing for the convicts, farming tools, flax-processing equipment, and enough supplies for six months; before that time was up, they planned to send more supplies.

Norfolk Island is situated in the latitude of 29 degrees south, and in longitude 168 degrees 10 minutes east of Greenwich, and was settled with a view to the cultivation of the flax plant, which at the time when the island was discovered by Captain Cook was found growing most luxuriantly where he landed; and from the specimens taken to England of the New Zealand flax (of which sort is that growing at Norfolk Island), it was hoped some advantages to the mother country might be derived from cultivating and manufacturing it.

Norfolk Island is located at 29 degrees south latitude and 168 degrees 10 minutes east longitude from Greenwich. It was settled with the intention of growing the flax plant, which Captain Cook found thriving when he discovered the island. Specimens of the New Zealand flax, which is the same type found on Norfolk Island, were brought back to England, and it was hoped that cultivating and manufacturing it would bring some benefits to the mother country.

Mr. King, previous to his departure for his little government, was sworn in as a justice of the peace, taking the oaths necessary on the occasion, by which he was enabled to punish such petty offences as might be committed among his people, capital crimes being reserved for the cognisance of the criminal court of judicature established here.

Mr. King, before he left for his small government position, was sworn in as a justice of the peace, taking the necessary oaths for the occasion. This allowed him to punish minor offenses that might happen among his people, while serious crimes were handled by the criminal court set up here.

Our own preservation depending in a great measure upon the preservation of our stores and provisions, houses for their reception were immediately begun when sufficient ground was found to be cleared; and the persons who had the direction of these and other works carrying on, found it most to the advantage of the public service to employ the convicts in task work, allotting a certain quantity of ground to be cleared by a certain number of persons in a given time, and allowing them to employ what time they might gain, till called on again for public service, in bringing in materials and erecting huts for themselves. But for the most part they preferred passing in idleness the hours that might have been so profitably spent, straggling into the woods for vegetables, or visiting the French ships in Botany Bay. Of this latter circumstance we were informed by M. de Clonard, the captain of the Astrolabe, in an excursion he made from the ships, to bring round some dispatches from M. de la Perouse, which that officer requested might be forwarded to the French ambassador at the court of London by the first of our transports that might sail from hence for Europe. He informed us, that they were daily visited by the convicts, many of whom solicited to be received on board before their departure, promising (as an inducement) to be accompanied by a number of females. M. de Clonard at the same time assured us, that the general (as he was termed by his officers and people) had given their solicitations no kind of countenance, but had threatened to drive them away by force.

Our survival relied heavily on keeping our supplies and provisions safe, so we immediately started building shelters as soon as we cleared enough land. The people in charge of these and other projects decided it was best for the public service to put the convicts to work on tasks, assigning a specific area of land to be cleared by a set number of people within a certain timeframe. They could use any extra time they earned to gather materials and build their own huts. However, most of them preferred to waste their time idly, wandering into the woods for vegetables or visiting the French ships in Botany Bay. We learned about this from M. de Clonard, the captain of the Astrolabe, during a trip he made from the ships to deliver some dispatches from M. de la Perouse, who requested that they be sent to the French ambassador in London on the first transport ship heading to Europe. He told us that they were often visited by the convicts, many of whom asked to be taken on board before leaving, offering to bring along several women as an incentive. M. de Clonard also assured us that the general (as his officers and crew called him) had not supported these requests in any way and had threatened to drive them away by force.

Among the buildings that were undertaken shortly after our arrival, must be mentioned an observatory, which was marked out on the western point of the cove, to receive the astronomical instruments which had been sent out by the Board of Longitude, for the purpose of observing the comet which was expected to be seen about the end of this year. The construction of this building was placed under the direction of Lieut. Dawes of the marines, who, having made this branch of science his particular study, was appointed by the Board of Longitude to make astronomical observations in this country.

Among the buildings constructed shortly after we arrived, we should highlight an observatory located at the western point of the cove, designed to house the astronomical instruments sent by the Board of Longitude for observing the comet expected to be visible around the end of this year. The building's construction was overseen by Lieut. Dawes of the marines, who had focused on this field of science and was appointed by the Board of Longitude to conduct astronomical observations in this country.

The latitude of the observatory was 33 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds S; the longitude, from Greenwich, 151 degrees 19 minutes 30 seconds E.

The observatory was located at a latitude of 33 degrees 52 minutes 30 seconds S and a longitude of 151 degrees 19 minutes 30 seconds E from Greenwich.

Governor Phillip, having been very much pressed for time when he first visited this harbour, had not thoroughly examined it. The completion of that necessary business was left to Captain Hunter, who, with the first lieutenant of the Sirius, early in the month of February, made an accurate survey of it. It was then found to be far more extensive to the westward than was at first imagined, and Captain Hunter described the country as wearing a much more favourable countenance toward the head or upper part, than it did immediately about the settlement. He saw several parties of the natives, and, treating them constantly with good humour, they always left him with friendly impressions.

Governor Phillip, short on time during his first visit to this harbor, didn’t get a chance to examine it thoroughly. Captain Hunter was tasked with completing that important job. Early in February, he, along with the first lieutenant of the Sirius, conducted a detailed survey of the area. They discovered that the harbor extended much further to the west than initially thought. Captain Hunter noted that the land looked much more promising toward the upper part than it did right around the settlement. He encountered several groups of the locals and, by always treating them with kindness, left a positive impression on them.

It was natural to suppose that the curiosity of these people would be attracted by observing, that, instead of quitting, we were occupied in works that indicated an intention of remaining in their country; but during the first six weeks we received only one visit, two men strolling into the camp one evening, and remaining in it for about half an hour. They appeared to admire whatever they saw, and after receiving each a hatchet (of the use of which the eldest instantly and curiously showed his knowledge, by turning up his foot, and sharpening a piece of wood on the sole with the hatchet) took their leave, apparently well pleased with their reception. The fishing-boats also frequently reported their having been visited by many of these people when hauling the seine, at which labour they often assisted with cheerfulness, and in return were generally rewarded with part of the fish taken.

It was natural to think that these people would be curious to see us since, instead of leaving, we were busy with activities that showed we intended to stay in their country. However, during the first six weeks, we only had one visit—two men wandered into the camp one evening and stayed for about half an hour. They seemed to enjoy everything they saw, and after each receiving a hatchet (the older one immediately demonstrated his knowledge by lifting his foot and sharpening a piece of wood on his shoe with the hatchet), they left, apparently happy with how they were treated. The fishing boats also often reported being visited by many of these people while they were pulling in the seine, a task they usually helped with eagerly, and in exchange, they were typically given part of the catch.

Every precaution was used to guard against a breach of this friendly and desirable intercourse, by strictly prohibiting every person from depriving them of their spears, fizgigs, gum, or other articles, which we soon perceived they were accustomed to leave under the rocks, or loose and scattered about upon the beaches. We had however great reason to believe that these precautions were first rendered fruitless by the ill conduct of a boat's crew belonging to one of the transports, who, we were told afterwards, attempted to land in one of the coves at the lower part of the harbour, but were prevented, and driven off with stones by the natives. A party of them, consisting of sixteen or eighteen persons, some time after landed on the island* where the people of the Sirius were preparing a garden, and with much artifice, watching their opportunity, carried off a shovel, a spade, and a pick-axe. On their being fired at and hit on the legs by one of the people with small shot, the pick-axe was dropped, but they carried off the other tools.

Every precaution was taken to protect this friendly and beneficial interaction by strictly forbidding anyone from taking away their spears, fizgigs, gum, or any other items, which we soon noticed they usually left under the rocks or scattered on the beaches. However, we had good reason to believe that these precautions were rendered ineffective by the irresponsible behavior of a boat crew from one of the transports, who, as we later learned, tried to land in one of the coves at the lower end of the harbor but were driven away with stones by the locals. A group of them, consisting of about sixteen or eighteen people, later landed on the island where the crew of the Sirius was setting up a garden, and with much cunning, they seized a shovel, a spade, and a pick-axe when the opportunity arose. When they were shot at and hit in the legs with small shot, they dropped the pick-axe but took the other tools.

[* Since known by the name of Garden Island.]

[* Now recognized as Garden Island.]

To such circumstances as these must be attributed the termination of that good understanding which had hitherto subsisted between us and them, and which Governor Phillip laboured to improve whenever he had an opportunity. But it might have been foreseen that this would unavoidably happen: the convicts were every where straggling about, collecting animals and gum to sell to the people of the transports, who at the same time were procuring spears, shields, swords, fishing-lines, and other articles from the natives, to carry to Europe; the loss of which must have been attended with many inconveniences to the owners, as it was soon evident that they were the only means whereby they obtained or could procure their daily subsistence; and although some of these people had been punished for purchasing articles of the convicts, the practice was carried on secretly, and attended with all the bad effects which were to be expected from it. We also had the mortification to learn, that M. De la Perouse had been compelled to fire upon the natives at Botany Bay, where they frequently annoyed his people who were employed on shore. This circumstance materially affected us, as those who had rendered this violence necessary could not discriminate between us and them. We were however perfectly convinced that nothing short of the greatest necessity could have induced M. De la Perouse to take such a step, as we heard him declare, that it was among the particular instructions that he received from his sovereign, to endeavour by every possible means to acquire and cultivate the friendship of the natives of such places as he might discover or visit; and to avoid exercising any act of hostility upon them. In obedience to this humane command, there was no doubt but he forbore using force until forbearance would have been dangerous, and he had been taught a lesson at Maouna, one of the Isles des Navigateurs, that the tempers of savages were not to be trusted too far; for we were informed, that on the very day and hour of their departure from that island, the boats of the two ships, which were sent for a last load of water, were attacked by the natives with stones and clubs, and M. De l'Angle, the captain of the Astrolabe, with eleven officers and men, were put to death; those who were so fortunate as to get off in the small boats that attended on the watering launches (which were destroyed), escaped with many wounds and contusions, some of which were not healed at the time of their relating to us this unfortunate circumstance. It was conjectured, that some one of the seamen, unknown to the officers, must have occasioned this outrage, for which there was no other probable reason to assign, as the natives during the time the ships were at the island had lived with the officers and people on terms of the greatest harmony. And this was not the first misfortune that those ships had met with during their voyage; for on the north-west coast of America, they lost two boats with their crews, and several young men of family, in a surf.

To situations like these, we must blame the end of the good relationship that existed between us and them, which Governor Phillip tried to improve whenever he could. But it was clear that this would inevitably happen: the convicts were wandering around, gathering animals and gum to sell to the people on the transports, who, at the same time, were getting spears, shields, swords, fishing lines, and other items from the natives to take back to Europe. The loss of these items must have caused many problems for their owners, as it quickly became clear that these were the only means they had to get their daily food. Although some of these individuals had been punished for buying from the convicts, the practice continued secretly, leading to all the negative consequences one would expect from it. We were also disappointed to learn that M. De la Perouse had to fire upon the natives at Botany Bay, where they frequently disturbed his crew while they were on shore. This incident significantly affected us, as those responsible for this violence could not tell the difference between us and them. However, we were confident that only extreme necessity could have led M. De la Perouse to take such action, since we heard him say that it was part of his specific instructions from his sovereign to try in every way to establish and maintain a friendship with the natives he encountered, and to avoid any acts of hostility against them. In following this kind and humane directive, it was clear he only resorted to force when avoiding it would have been dangerous, and he had learned a lesson at Maouna, one of the Isles des Navigateurs, that the temperaments of savages should not be overestimated; we were informed that on the exact day and hour they left that island, the boats from the two ships sent for a final load of water were attacked by the natives with stones and clubs, resulting in M. De l'Angle, the captain of the Astrolabe, and eleven officers and men being killed; those lucky enough to escape in the small boats that accompanied the watering launches (which were destroyed) left with many wounds and bruises, some of which had not healed when they told us this unfortunate story. It was speculated that one of the crew members, unknown to the officers, must have caused this violence, as there was no other likely explanation, since the natives had lived in complete harmony with the officers and crew while the ships were at the island. This was not the first misfortune the ships encountered during their voyage; on the northwest coast of America, they lost two boats with their crews and several young men from prominent families in a surf.

Notwithstanding the pressure of the important business we had upon our hands after our landing, the discharge of our religious duties was never omitted, divine service being performed every Sunday that the weather would permit: at which time the detachment of marines paraded with their arms, the whole body of convicts attended, and were observed to conduct themselves in general with the respect and attention due to the occasion on which they were assembled.

Despite the pressure of the important business we had after landing, we never skipped our religious duties. We held a service every Sunday that the weather allowed. During this time, the marines paraded with their weapons, and all the convicts attended, generally behaving with the respect and attention that the occasion deserved.

It was soon observed with satisfaction, that several couples were announced for marriage; but on strictly scrutinizing into the motive, it was found in several instances to originate in an idea, that the married people would meet with various little comforts and privileges that were denied to those in a single state; and some, on not finding those expectations realised, repented, wished and actually applied to be restored to their former situations; so ignorant and thoughtless were they in general. It was however to be wished, that matrimonial connexions should be promoted among them; and none who applied were ever rejected, except when it was clearly understood that either of the parties had a wife or husband living at the time of their leaving England.

It quickly became clear that several couples were getting engaged, which was met with satisfaction. However, on closer inspection of their motivations, it was found that in many cases, it stemmed from the belief that married people would enjoy various little comforts and benefits that single individuals did not have. Some, upon realizing those expectations were not met, regretted their decisions and actually asked to return to their previous single lives; they were generally quite naive and thoughtless. Nonetheless, it was hoped that marriage connections would be encouraged among them, and no one who applied was ever turned away, except when it was clear that either party already had a spouse living at the time they left England.

The weather during the latter end of January and the month of February was very close, with rain, at times very heavy, and attended with much thunder and lightning. In the night of the 6th February, six sheep, two lambs, and one pig, belonging chiefly to the lieutenant-governor, having been placed at the foot of a large tree, were destroyed by the lightning. But accidents of this kind were rather to be expected than wondered at, until the woods around us could be opened and cleared.

The weather at the end of January and throughout February was quite oppressive, with frequent heavy rain, along with a lot of thunder and lightning. On the night of February 6th, six sheep, two lambs, and one pig, mostly owned by the lieutenant-governor, were struck by lightning while they were resting at the base of a large tree. However, such accidents were more expected than surprising, given that the surrounding woods had yet to be opened and cleared.

CHAPTER II

Broken Bay visited
M. de la Perouse sails
Transactions
The Supply returns
Lord Howe Island discovered
The ships to China sail
Some convicts injured by the natives
Scurvy
New storehouse
Necessary orders and appointments
Excursions into the countryside
New branch of the harbor into Port Jackson
Sheep

March.] Early in March the governor, accompanied by some officers from the settlement and the Sirius, went round by water to the next adjoining harbour to the northward of this port, which is laid down in the charts by the name of Broken Bay, from the broken appearance of the land by which it is formed. The intention of this visit was, not only to survey the harbour, if any were found to exist, but to examine whether there were within it any spots of ground capable of cultivation, and of maintaining a few families; but in eight days that he was absent, though he found an harbour equal in magnitude to Port Jackson, the governor saw no situation that could at all vie with that which he had chosen for the settlement at Sydney Cove, the land at Broken Bay being in general very high and in most parts rocky and barren. The weather proved very unfavourable to an excursion in a country where the residence for each night was to be provided by the travellers themselves; and some of the party returned with dysenteric complaints. The weather at Port Jackson had been equally adverse to labour, the governor finding at his return upwards of two hundred patients under the surgeon's care, in consequence of the heavy rains that had fallen. A building for the reception of the sick was now absolutely necessary, and one, eighty-four feet by twenty-three, was put in hand, to be divided into a dispensary, (all the hospital stores being at that time under tents,) a ward for the troops, and another for the convicts. It was to be built of wood, and the roof to be covered in with shingles, made from a species of fir that is found here. The heavy rains also pointed out the necessity of sheltering the detachment, and until barracks could be built, most of them covered their tents with thatch, or erected for themselves temporary clay huts. The barracks were begun early in March; but much difficulty was found in providing proper materials, the timber being in general shakey and rotten. They were to consist of four buildings, each building to be sixty-seven feet by twenty-two, and to contain one company. They were placed at a convenient distance asunder for the purpose of air and cleanliness, and with a space in the centre for a parade.

March.] Early in March, the governor, along with some officers from the settlement and the Sirius, traveled by water to the neighboring harbor to the north of this port, known on maps as Broken Bay, due to the uneven look of the land around it. The purpose of this visit was not only to explore the harbor, if any was found to exist, but also to check if there were any areas within it suitable for farming and supporting a few families. However, during his eight-day absence, although he discovered a harbor as large as Port Jackson, the governor did not find a location that could compete with the one he had chosen for the settlement at Sydney Cove. The land in Broken Bay was generally very high, rocky, and barren. The weather was unfavorable for an expedition in a place where the travelers had to set up their own accommodations each night, and some members of the party returned with digestive issues. The weather at Port Jackson had also been bad for work, as the governor found over two hundred patients needing medical attention due to the heavy rains upon his return. A building to house the sick was urgently needed, so one measuring eighty-four feet by twenty-three was underway, to be divided into a dispensary (as all hospital supplies were then stored in tents), a ward for the troops, and another for the convicts. It would be constructed of wood, and the roof would be covered with shingles made from a type of fir found here. The heavy rains also highlighted the need for shelter for the troops, and until barracks could be built, most of them covered their tents with thatch or constructed temporary clay huts. The barracks construction began in early March, but there were significant challenges in sourcing suitable materials, as the timber was generally weak and rotting. They were planned to consist of four buildings, each measuring sixty-seven feet by twenty-two, to accommodate one company. They were placed a convenient distance apart for ventilation and cleanliness, with a central space for a parade.

On or about Monday the 10th of March, the French ships sailed from Botany Bay, bound, as they said, to the northward, and carrying with them the most unfavourable ideas of this country and its native inhabitants; the officers having been heard to declare, that in their whole voyage they no where found so poor a country, nor such wretched miserable people. During their stay in Botany Bay, they set up the frames of two large boats which they brought out from Europe, to replace those they lost at Maouna, and on the north-west coast of America. We had, during their stay in this country, a very friendly and pleasant intercourse with their officers, among whom we observed men of abilities, whose observations, and exertions in the search after knowledge, will most amply illustrate the history of their voyage: and it reflected much credit on the minister when he arranged the plan of it, that people of the first talents for navigation, astronomy, natural history, and every other science that could render it conspicuously useful, should have been selected for the purpose.

On or around Monday, March 10th, the French ships left Botany Bay, claiming to be heading north and carrying the most negative views of this country and its native people; the officers had been heard saying that throughout their entire journey, they found no other place as poor nor its people as miserable. During their time in Botany Bay, they set up the frames of two large boats they had brought from Europe to replace the ones they lost at Maouna and along the north-west coast of America. We had a very friendly and enjoyable interaction with their officers, among whom we noted individuals with talent whose insights and efforts in the pursuit of knowledge will greatly enrich the account of their voyage: it was a credit to the minister who organized it that the best minds in navigation, astronomy, natural history, and other useful sciences were chosen for the task.

We found after their departure the grave of the Abbé L. Receveur, who died but a short time before they sailed: he was buried not very far from the spot where their tents were erected, at the foot of a tree, on which were nailed two pieces of board with the following inscription:

We found the grave of Abbé L. Receveur after they left, who had died shortly before their departure: he was buried not too far from where their tents were set up, at the base of a tree, to which two pieces of wood were nailed with this inscription:

Hic jacet
L. Receveur
Ex F. F. Minoribus
Galliae Sacerdos
Physicus in Circumnavigatione Mundi
Duce D. de la Perouse
Obiit Die 17 Febr. Anno
1788.

Hic jacet  
L. Receveur  
Ex F. F. Minoribus  
Galliae Sacerdos  
Physicus in Circumnavigatione Mundi  
Duce D. de la Perouse  
Obiit Die 17 Febr. Anno  
1788.

Governor Phillip, on hearing that these boards had fallen down from the tree, caused the inscription to be engraven on a plate of copper, which was put up in place of the boards; but rain, and the oozing of gum from the tree, soon rendered even that illegible.

Governor Phillip, upon learning that these boards had fallen from the tree, had the inscription engraved on a copper plate, which was installed in place of the boards; however, rain and the leaking gum from the tree quickly made that unreadable too.

We continued to be still busily employed; a wharf for the convenience of landing stores was begun under the direction of the surveyor-general: the ordnance, consisting of two brass six-pounders on travelling carriages, four iron twelve-pounders, and two iron six-pounders, were landed; the transports, which were chartered for China, were clearing; the long-boats of the ships in the cove were employed in bringing up cabbage-tree from the lower part of the harbour, where it grew in great abundance, and was found, when cut into proper lengths, very fit for the purpose of erecting temporary huts, the posts and plates of which being made of the pine of this country, and the sides and ends filled with lengths of the cabbage-tree, plastered over with clay, formed a very good hovel. The roofs were generally thatched with the grass of the gum-rush; some were covered with clay, but several of these failed, the weight of the clay and heavy rain soon destroying them.

We were still busy with our work; a wharf was being built for unloading supplies under the supervision of the surveyor-general. The artillery included two brass six-pounders on wheeled carriages, four iron twelve-pounders, and two iron six-pounders, which were unloaded. The ships chartered for China were getting ready to depart. The longboats from the ships in the cove were used to bring back cabbage-tree from the lower part of the harbor, where it grew abundantly. When cut to the right length, it was perfect for building temporary huts. The posts and beams were made from local pine, and the sides and ends were filled with pieces of cabbage-tree, then covered with clay, creating a decent shelter. The roofs were usually thatched with gum-rush grass; some were covered with clay, but many of those collapsed, as the weight of the clay and heavy rain quickly damaged them.

A gang of convicts was employed, under the direction of a person who understood the business, in making bricks at a spot about a mile from the settlement, at the head of Long Cove; at which place also two acres of ground were marked out for such officers as were willing to cultivate them and raise a little grain for their stock; it not being the intention of government to give any grants of land until the necessary accounts of the country, and of what expectations were likely to be formed from it, should be received.

A group of prisoners was working, supervised by someone who knew what they were doing, making bricks about a mile from the settlement, at the top of Long Cove. There were also two acres set aside for any officers who wanted to farm and grow some grain for their livestock, as the government didn't plan to give out land grants until they had a full understanding of the area and the prospects it offered.

Great inconvenience was found from the necessity that subsisted of suffering the stock of individuals to run loose amongst the tents and huts; much damage in particular was sustained by hogs, who frequently forced their way into them while the owners were at labour and destroyed and damaged whatever they met with. At first these losses were usually made good from the store, as it was unreasonable to expect labour where the labourer did not receive the proper sustenance; but this being soon found to open a door to much imposition, and to give rise to many fabricated tales of injuries that never existed, an order was given, that any hog caught trespassing was to be killed by the person who actually received any damage from it.

It was really inconvenient that people had to deal with their livestock roaming freely among the tents and huts. Hogs, in particular, caused a lot of damage by breaking into these spaces while their owners were working and destroying whatever they found. At first, the losses were usually covered by the store since it was unreasonable to expect workers to perform without proper food. However, this quickly led to a lot of fraud and made up stories about damages that never actually happened. As a result, an order was issued stating that anyone who caught a hog trespassing had the right to kill it if they had suffered any damage from it.

The principal street of the intended town was marked out at the head of the cove, and its dimensions were extensive. The government-house was to be constructed on the summit of a hill commanding a capital view of Long Cove, and other parts of the harbour; but this was to be a work of after-consideration; for the present, as the ground was not cleared, it was sufficient to point out the situation and define the limits of the future buildings.

The main street of the planned town was laid out at the top of the cove, and it was quite large. The government house was to be built on top of a hill that offered a great view of Long Cove and other areas of the harbor, but that was something to think about later. For now, since the area hadn't been cleared yet, it was enough to indicate the location and outline the boundaries for the future buildings.

On the 19th the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent four weeks and six days. We learned that she made the island on the 29th of last month, but for the five succeeding days was not able to effect a landing, being prevented by a surf which they found breaking with violence on a reef of rocks that lay across the principal bay. Lieutenant King had nearly given up all hopes of being able to land, when a small opening was discovered in the reef wide enough to admit a boat, through which he was so fortunate as to get safely with all his people and stores. When landed, he could nowhere find a space clear enough for pitching a tent; and he had to cut through an almost impenetrable wilderness before he could encamp himself and his people. Of the flock he carried with him, he lost the only she-goat he had, and one ewe. He had named the bay wherein he landed and fixed the settlement Sydney Bay, and had given the names of Phillip and Nepean to two small islands which are situated at a small distance from it.

On the 19th, the Supply returned from Norfolk Island after being away for four weeks and six days. We learned that it reached the island on the 29th of last month, but for the next five days, it couldn't land due to heavy surf crashing on a reef of rocks in the main bay. Lieutenant King was about to lose hope of landing when a small gap in the reef was found that was wide enough for a boat. He managed to get everyone and all the supplies safely ashore. Once on land, he couldn't find any clear space to set up a tent and had to cut through a nearly impenetrable wilderness before he could camp with his people. From the livestock he brought, he lost the only female goat and one ewe. He named the bay where he landed Sydney Bay and gave the names Phillip and Nepean to two small islands nearby.

Lieutenant King, the commandant, wrote in good spirits, and spoke of meeting all his difficulties like a man determined to overcome them. The soil of the island appeared to be very rich, but the landing dangerous, Sydney Bay being exposed to the southerly winds, with which the surf constantly breaks on the reef. The Supply lost one of her people, who was washed off the reef and drowned. There is a small bay on the other side of the island, but at a distance from the settlement, and no anchoring ground in either. The flax plant (the principal object in view) he had not discovered when the Supply sailed. Lieutenant Ball, soon after he left this harbour, fell in with an uninhabited island in lat. 31 degrees 56 minutes S and in long. 159 degrees 4 minutes East, which he named Lord Howe Island. It is inferior in size to Norfolk Island, but abounded at that time with turtle, (sixteen of which he brought away with him,) as well as with a new species of fowl, and a small brown bird, the flesh of which was very fine eating. These birds were in great abundance, and so unused to such visitors, that they suffered themselves to be knocked down with sticks, as they ran along the beach.

Lieutenant King, the commandant, wrote in high spirits and talked about facing all his challenges like a person determined to overcome them. The soil on the island seemed really rich, but the landing was risky, with Sydney Bay exposed to southerly winds that constantly churned the surf against the reef. The Supply lost one of its crew members, who got swept off the reef and drowned. There’s a small bay on the opposite side of the island, but it’s far from the settlement, and there’s no good anchoring ground anywhere. He hadn’t found the flax plant (the main objective) when the Supply set sail. Soon after leaving this harbor, Lieutenant Ball came across an uninhabited island at 31 degrees 56 minutes S and 159 degrees 4 minutes E, which he named Lord Howe Island. It’s smaller than Norfolk Island but had an abundance of turtles at that time (he brought back sixteen) as well as a new species of bird and a small brown bird that was excellent for eating. These birds were so plentiful and unaccustomed to visitors that they allowed themselves to be easily knocked down with sticks as they ran along the beach.

Pines, but no small trees, grow on this island, in which there is a good bay, but no anchoring ground. Of the pines at Norfolk Island, one measured nine feet in diameter, and another, that was found lying on the ground, measured 182 feet in length.

Pines, but no small trees, grow on this island, where there's a good bay, but no place to anchor. Among the pines at Norfolk Island, one measured nine feet in diameter, and another one, found lying on the ground, measured 182 feet in length.

As the scurvy was at this time making rapid strides in the colony, the hope of being able to procure a check to its effects from the new island, rendered it in every one's opinion a fortunate discovery.

As scurvy was quickly spreading in the colony, the possibility of finding a remedy for its effects from the new island made it seem like a fortunate discovery to everyone.

The Scarborough, Charlotte, and Lady Penrhyn transports being cleared, were discharged from government service in the latter end of the month, and the masters left at liberty to proceed on their respective voyages pursuant to the directions of their owners.

The Scarborough, Charlotte, and Lady Penrhyn transports were cleared and released from government service at the end of the month, and the captains were free to continue their journeys as directed by their owners.

In the course of this month several convicts came in from the woods; one in particular dangerously wounded with a spear, the others very much beaten and bruised by the natives. The wounded man had been employed cutting rushes for thatching, and one of the others was a convalescent from the hospital, who went out to collect a few vegetables. All these people denied giving any provocation to the natives: it was, however, difficult to believe them; they well knew the consequences that would attend any acts of violence on their part, as it had been declared in public orders early in the month, that in forming the intended settlement, any act of cruelty to the natives being contrary to his Majesty's most gracious intentions, the offenders would be subject to a criminal prosecution; and they well knew that the natives themselves, however injured, could not contradict their assertions. There was, however, too much reason to believe that our people had been the aggressors, as the governor on his return from his excursion to Broken Bay, on landing at Camp Cove, found the natives there who had before frequently come up to him with confidence, unusually shy, and seemingly afraid of him and his party; and one, who after much invitation did venture to approach, pointed to some marks upon his shoulders, making signs they were caused by blows given with a stick. This, and their running away, whereas they had always before remained on the beach until the people landed from the boats, were strong indications that the man had been beaten by some of our stragglers. Eleven canoes full of people passed very near the Sirius, which was moored without the two points of the cove, but paddled away very fast upon the approach of some boats toward them.

During this month, several convicts came back from the woods; one was badly injured by a spear, while the others had been beaten and bruised by the locals. The injured man had been cutting rushes for thatching, and one of the others was recovering from the hospital, having gone out to gather some vegetables. All of them claimed they hadn't provoked the locals, but it was hard to believe them. They knew well the consequences of any violent actions on their part, since public orders issued earlier in the month stated that in establishing the new settlement, any cruelty towards the natives would go against His Majesty's kind intentions, and those responsible would face criminal prosecution. They also understood that the natives, no matter how wronged, couldn't contradict their claims. However, there were strong reasons to think our people were the aggressors. When the governor returned from his trip to Broken Bay and landed at Camp Cove, he found the natives, who had previously approached him without fear, unusually shy and seemingly afraid of him and his group. One native, after much persuading, finally came forward and pointed to some marks on his shoulders, indicating they were caused by blows from a stick. This, along with their running away when they usually stayed on the beach until the boats landed, suggested that one of our stragglers had beaten the man. Eleven canoes filled with people passed very close to the Sirius, which was anchored outside the two points of the cove, but they quickly paddled away as some boats came towards them.

The curiosity of the camp was excited and gratified for a day or two by the sight of an emu, which was shot by the governor's game-killer. It was remarkable by every stem having two feathers proceeding from it. Its height was 7 feet 2 inches, and the flesh was very well flavoured.

The camp's curiosity was sparked and satisfied for a day or two by the sight of an emu, which had been shot by the governor's hunter. It was unique because every stem had two feathers coming from it. It stood 7 feet 2 inches tall, and the meat was quite flavorful.

The run of water that supplied the settlement was observed to be only a drain from a swamp at the head of it; to protect it, therefore, as much as possible from the sun, an order was given out, forbidding the cutting down of any trees within fifty feet of the run, than which there had not yet been a finer found in any one of the coves of the harbour.

The water source that provided for the settlement was really just a runoff from a swamp nearby; to shield it as much as possible from the sun, an order was issued prohibiting the cutting down of any trees within fifty feet of the water. This was the best source discovered so far in any of the cove's areas of the harbor.

April.] As the winter of this hemisphere was approaching, it became absolutely necessary to expedite the buildings intended for the detachment; every carpenter that could be procured amongst the convicts was sent to assist, and as many as could be hired from the transports were employed at the hospital and storehouses. The long-boats of the ships still continued to bring up the cabbage-tree from the lower part of the harbour, and a range of huts was begun on the west side for some of the female convicts.

April.] As winter was approaching in this hemisphere, it became essential to speed up the construction of the buildings for the detachment; every carpenter available among the convicts was sent to help, and as many as could be hired from the transports were employed at the hospital and storage facilities. The long boats from the ships continued to bring up cabbage-tree from the lower part of the harbor, and a row of huts was started on the west side for some of the female convicts.

Our little camp now began to wear the aspect of distress, from the great number of scorbutic patients that were daily seen creeping to and from the hospital tents; and the principal surgeon suggested the expediency of another supply of turtle from Lord Howe Island: but it was generally thought that the season was too far advanced, and the utmost that could have been procured would have made but a very trifling and temporary change in the diet of those afflicted with the disorder.

Our small camp was starting to look distressed due to the large number of scurvy patients who were frequently moving to and from the hospital tents. The head surgeon proposed that we should get another supply of turtle from Lord Howe Island, but most people believed the season was too far along for that. Even if we did manage to get some, it would only result in a minor and temporary improvement in the diet of those suffering from the illness.

On the 6th, divine service was performed in the new storehouse, which was covered in, but not sufficiently completed to admit provisions. One hundred feet by twenty-five were the dimensions of this building, which was constructed with great strength; yet the mind was always pained when viewing its reedy combustible covering, remembering the livid flames that had been seen to shoot over every part of this cove: but no other materials could be found to answer the purpose of thatch, and every necessary precaution was taken to guard against accidental fire.

On the 6th, a religious service was held in the new storage facility, which was enclosed but not fully completed enough to store supplies. The building measured one hundred feet by twenty-five, built with great strength; however, it was always concerning to see its thatched, flammable roof, reminding everyone of the vivid flames that had once engulfed the entire cove. But no other materials were available for roofing, and every necessary measure was taken to prevent accidental fires.

An elderly woman, a convict, having been accused of stealing a flat iron, and the iron being found in her possession, the first moment she was left alone she hung herself to the ridge-pole of her tent, but was fortunately discovered and cut down before it was too late.

An elderly woman, a convict, accused of stealing a flat iron, and with the iron found in her possession, hung herself from the ridge-pole of her tent the moment she was left alone. Fortunately, she was discovered and cut down before it was too late.

Although several thefts were committed by the convicts, yet it was in general remarked, that they conducted themselves with more propriety than could have been expected from people of their description; to prevent, however, if possible, the commission of offences so prejudicial to the welfare of the colony, his excellency signified to the convicts his resolution that the condemnation of any one for robbing the huts or stores should be immediately followed by their execution. Much of their irregularity was perhaps to be ascribed to the intercourse that subsisted, in spite of punishment, between them and the seamen from the ships of war and the transports, who at least one day in the week found means to get on shore with spirits.

Although the convicts committed several thefts, it was generally noted that they behaved more appropriately than expected from people in their situation. However, to prevent any offenses that could harm the colony's well-being, his excellency expressed to the convicts his determination that anyone convicted of robbing huts or stores would be executed immediately. Much of their misbehavior could perhaps be attributed to the connections that persisted, despite punishment, between them and the sailors from the warships and transport ships, who managed to get ashore with alcohol at least once a week.

Notwithstanding it was the anxious care of every one who could prevent it, that the venereal disease might not be introduced into the settlement, it was not only found to exist amongst the convicts, but the very sufferers themselves were known to conceal their having it. To stop this evil, it was ordered by the governor, that any man or woman having and concealing this disorder should receive corporal punishment, and be put upon a short allowance of provisions for six months.

Despite everyone's best efforts to keep venereal disease from entering the settlement, it was not only discovered among the convicts, but the infected individuals were also known to hide their condition. To combat this issue, the governor ordered that anyone who had and concealed this illness would face corporal punishment and be placed on a restricted food supply for six months.

Lieutenant Dawes of the marines was directed in public orders to act as officer of artillery and engineers; in consequence of which the ordnance of the settlement, and the constructing of a small redoubt on the east side, were put under his direction.

Lieutenant Dawes of the marines was officially ordered to serve as the officer of artillery and engineers. As a result, he was put in charge of the settlement's ordnance and the construction of a small fort on the east side.

Mr. Zachariah Clark, who came out of England as agent to Mr. Richards the contractor, was at the same time appointed an assistant to the commissary; and the issuing of the provisions, which was in future to be once a week, was put under his charge.

Mr. Zachariah Clark, who arrived from England as the agent for Mr. Richards, the contractor, was also appointed as an assistant to the commissary. He was put in charge of distributing the provisions, which were now to be issued once a week.

In the course of this month a stone building was begun on the west side for the residence of the lieutenant-governor, one face of which was to be in the principal street of the intended town.

In this month, a stone building was started on the west side for the residence of the lieutenant-governor, one side of which was meant to face the main street of the planned town.

The governor, desirous of acquiring a knowledge of the country about the seat of his government, and profiting by the coolness of the weather, made during the month several excursions into the country; in one of which having observed a range of mountains to the westward, and hoping that a river might be found to take its course in their neighbourhood, he set off with a small party, intending if possible to reach them, taking with him six days provisions; but returned without attaining either object of his journey--the mountains, or a river.

The governor, eager to learn about the area around his government and taking advantage of the cool weather, made several trips into the countryside that month. On one of these trips, he noticed a mountain range to the west and hoped to find a river flowing nearby. He set off with a small group, planning to reach the mountains, bringing along six days’ worth of supplies. However, he returned without achieving either goal—the mountains or the river.

He penetrated about thirty miles inland, through a country most amply clothed with timber, but in general free from underwood. On the fifth day of his excursion he had, from a rising ground which he named Belle Vue, the only view of the mountains which he obtained during the journey; and as they then appeared at too great a distance to be reached on one day's allowance of provisions, which was all they had left, he determined to return to Sydney Cove.

He ventured about thirty miles inland, through a region densely covered with trees, but mostly clear of shrubs. On the fifth day of his trip, he reached a high point he called Belle Vue, where he got his only glimpse of the mountains during the journey. Since they looked too far away to reach with just one day’s worth of food left, which was all they had, he decided to head back to Sydney Cove.

In Port Jackson another branch extending to the northward had been discovered; but as the country surrounding it was high, rocky, and barren, though it might add to the extent and beauty of the harbour, it did not promise to be of any benefit to the settlement.

In Port Jackson, another branch extending northward had been discovered; however, since the surrounding area was high, rocky, and barren, while it might enhance the size and beauty of the harbor, it didn’t seem likely to benefit the settlement.

The governor had the mortification to learn on his return from his western expedition, that five ewes and a lamb had been destroyed at the farm in the adjoining cove, supposed to have been killed by dogs belonging to the natives.

The governor felt embarrassed to find out upon his return from his trip west that five ewes and a lamb had been killed at the farm in the nearby cove, likely by dogs owned by the locals.

The number of sheep which were landed in this country were considerably diminished; they were of necessity placed on ground, and compelled to feed on grass, that had never before been exposed to air or sun, and consequently did not agree with them; a circumstance much to be lamented, as without stock the settlement must for years remain dependent on the mother-country for the means of subsistence.

The number of sheep that were brought to this country was significantly reduced; they had to be put on land and forced to graze on grass that had never been exposed to air or sunlight, which didn’t suit them well. This is quite unfortunate because without livestock, the settlement would have to rely on the mother country for food for many years.

CHAPTER III

Transactions
Transports set sail for China
The Supply departs for Lord Howe Island
Return of goods in the colony in May
The Supply returns
Transactions
A convict got injured
Rush-cutters killed by the locals
Governor's trip
His Majesty's birthday
Behavior of the convicts
Cattle lost
Locals
Announcement
Earthquake
Transports depart for England
Supply sets sail for Norfolk Island
Transactions
Locals
Convicts injured

May.] The month of May opened with the trial, conviction, and execution of James Bennett, a youth of seventeen years of age, for breaking open a tent belonging to the Charlotte transport, and stealing thereout property above the value of five shillings. He confessed that he had often merited death before he committed the crime for which he was then about to suffer, and that a love of idleness and bad connexions had been his ruin. He was executed immediately on receiving his sentence, in the hope of making a greater impression on the convicts than if it had been delayed for a day or two.

May.] The month of May began with the trial, conviction, and execution of James Bennett, a seventeen-year-old, for breaking into a tent belonging to the Charlotte transport and stealing items worth more than five shillings. He admitted that he had often deserved death before committing the crime for which he was about to be punished, and that his downfall was due to a love of laziness and bad influences. He was executed right after receiving his sentence, in hopes of making a stronger impact on the convicts than if it had been postponed for a day or two.

There being no other shelter for the guard than tents, great inconvenience was found in placing under its charge more than one or two prisoners together. The convicts, therefore, who were confined at the guard until they could be conveyed to the southward, were sent to the Bare Island at the entrance of this cove, where they were to be supplied weekly with provisions from the store, and water from the Sirius, until an opportunity offered of sending them away.

There was no other shelter for the guard besides tents, which made it difficult to keep more than one or two prisoners together. So, the convicts who were held at the guard until they could be taken south were sent to Bare Island at the entrance of this cove. They were to receive weekly provisions from the store and water from the Sirius until there was a chance to ship them out.

The three transports sailed on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of this month for China. The Supply also sailed on the 6th for Lord Howe Island, to procure turtle and birds for the settlement, the scurvy continuing to resist every effort that could be made to check its progress by medicine; from the lateness of the season, however, little hope was entertained of her success.

The three ships left on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of this month for China. The Supply also departed on the 6th for Lord Howe Island to gather turtles and birds for the settlement, as scurvy continued to resist all attempts to combat it with medicine. However, due to the time of year, there was little hope for her success.

The governor having directed every person in the settlement to make a return of what livestock was in his possession, the following appeared to be the total amount of stock in the colony:

The governor instructed everyone in the settlement to report what livestock they owned, and the following was the total amount of stock in the colony:

1 Stallion  2 Bulls  19 Goats  5 Rabbits   35 Ducks
3 Mares     5 Cows   49 Hogs  18 Turkeys  122 Fowls
3 Colts    29 Sheep  25 Pigs  29 Geese     87 Chickens

1 Stallion  2 Bulls  19 Goats  5 Rabbits   35 Ducks  
3 Mares     5 Cows   49 Hogs  18 Turkeys  122 Fowls  
3 Colts    29 Sheep  25 Pigs  29 Geese     87 Chickens

There having been found among the convicts a person qualified to conduct the business of a bricklayer, a gang of labourers was put under his direction, and most of the huts which grew up in different parts of the cleared ground were erected by them. Another gang of labourers was put under the direction of a stonemason, and on the 15th the first stone of a building, intended for the residence of he governor until the government-house could be erected, was laid on the east side of the cove. The following inscription, engraven on a piece of copper, was placed in the foundation:

There was a convict who had the skills to act as a bricklayer, so a group of workers was put under his supervision, and most of the huts that appeared in different areas of the cleared land were built by them. Another group of workers was put under the supervision of a stonemason, and on the 15th, the first stone of a building meant to serve as the governor's residence until the official government house could be built was laid on the east side of the cove. The following inscription, engraved on a piece of copper, was placed in the foundation:

His Excellency
ARTHUR PHILLIP Esq.
Governor in Chief and Captain General
in and over the Territory of New South Wales,
landed in this Cove
with the first Settlers of this Country,
the 24th Day of January 1788;
and on the 15th Day of May
in the same Year,
being the 28th of the Reign of His present Majesty
GEORGE the THIRD,
The First of these Stones was laid.

His Excellency  
ARTHUR PHILLIP Esq.  
Governor in Chief and Captain General  
in and over the Territory of New South Wales,  
landed in this cove  
with the first settlers of this country,  
on January 24, 1788;  
and on May 15  
of the same year,  
during the 28th year of the reign of His present Majesty  
GEORGE the THIRD,  
the first of these stones was laid.

The large store-house being completed, and a road made to it from the wharf on the west side, the provisions were directed to be landed from the victuallers, and proper gangs of convicts placed to roll them to the store.

The big warehouse was finished, and a road was built from the wharf on the west side, so the supplies were instructed to be unloaded from the suppliers, with the right groups of convicts assigned to move them to the warehouse.

Carpenters were now employed in covering in that necessary building the hospital, the shingles for the purpose being all prepared; these were fastened to the roof (which was very strong) by pegs made by the female convicts.

Carpenters were now working on finishing that necessary building, the hospital, with all the shingles ready for use; these were secured to the very sturdy roof by pegs made by the female convicts.

The timber that had been cut down proved in general very unfit or the purpose of building, the trees being for the most part decayed, and when cut down were immediately warped and split by the heat of the sun. A species of pine appeared to be the best, and was chiefly used in the frame-work of houses, and in covering the roofs, the wood splitting easily into shingles.

The wood that was cut down turned out to be mostly unsuitable for building since the trees were mostly rotted, and once cut, they quickly warped and split in the sun's heat. A type of pine seemed to be the best option and was mainly used for the framework of houses and roofing, as it split easily into shingles.

The Supply returned in the afternoon of the 25th from Lord Howe Island, without having procured any turtle, the weather being much too cold and the season too late to find them so far to the southward.

The Supply came back in the afternoon of the 25th from Lord Howe Island, having not gotten any turtles, as the weather was way too cold and the season too late to find them so far south.

To the southward and eastward of Lord Howe Island there is a rock, which may be seen at the distance of eighteen leagues, and which from its shape Lieutenant Ball has named Ball Pyramid.

To the south and east of Lord Howe Island, there's a rock visible from eighteen leagues away, which Lieutenant Ball has named Ball Pyramid due to its shape.

On the 26th a soldier and a sailor were tried by the criminal court of judicature for assaulting and dangerously wounding James McNeal, a seaman. These people belonged to the Sirius, and were employed on the island where the ship's company had their garden, the seamen in cultivating the ground, and the soldier in protecting them; for which purpose he had his firelock with him. They all lived together in a hut that was built for them, and on the evening preceding the assault had received their week's allowance of spirits, with which they intoxicated themselves, and quarrelled. They were found guilty of the assault, and, as pecuniary damages were out of the question, were each sentenced to receive five hundred lashes.

On the 26th, a soldier and a sailor were put on trial by the criminal court for assaulting and seriously injuring James McNeal, a seaman. They were part of the Sirius crew and worked on the island where the ship's company managed their garden. The seamen cultivated the land while the soldier protected them, carrying his firearm for that purpose. They all lived together in a hut built for them, and on the night before the assault, they had received their weekly ration of alcohol, which led to them drinking, getting drunk, and then fighting. They were found guilty of the assault, and since monetary compensation wasn't an option, they were each sentenced to receive five hundred lashes.

Farther and still more unpleasant consequences of the ill-treatment which the natives received from our people were felt during this month. On the evening of the 21st a convict belonging to the farm on the east side was brought into the hospital, very dangerously wounded with a barbed spear, which entered about the depth of three inches into his back, between the shoulders. The account he gave of the transaction was, that having strayed to a cove beyond the farm with another man, who did not return with him, he was suddenly wounded with a spear, not having seen any natives until he received the wound. His companion ran away when the natives came up, who stripped him of all his clothes but his trousers, which they did not take, and then left him to crawl into the camp. A day or two afterwards the clothes of the man that was missing were brought in, torn, bloody, and pierced with spears; so that there was every reason to suppose that the poor wretch had fallen a sacrifice to his own folly and the barbarity of the natives.

During this month, even more unpleasant consequences of the mistreatment the natives received from our people became apparent. On the evening of the 21st, a convict from the farm on the east side was brought to the hospital, severely wounded by a barbed spear that penetrated about three inches into his back, between his shoulders. He explained that after wandering to a cove beyond the farm with another man, who didn't come back with him, he was suddenly attacked and speared, without having seen any natives beforehand. His companion ran away when the natives approached, leaving him to crawl back to the camp after they stripped him of all his clothes except for his trousers. A day or two later, the missing man’s clothes were found, torn, bloody, and pierced with spears, leading to the conclusion that this unfortunate man had become a victim of his own foolishness and the cruelty of the natives.

On the 30th an officer, who had been collecting rushes in a cove up the harbour, found and brought to the hospital the bodies of two convicts who had been employed for some time in cutting rushes there, pierced through in many places with spears, and the head of one beaten to a jelly. As it was improbable that these murders should be committed without provocation, inquiry was made, and it appeared that these unfortunate men had, a few days previous to their being found, taken away and detained a canoe belonging to the natives, for which act of violence and injustice they paid with their lives.

On the 30th, an officer who had been gathering rushes in a cove up the harbor discovered the bodies of two convicts who had been working there for some time. They were stabbed in many places with spears, and one of their heads was crushed. Since it seemed unlikely that these murders happened without a reason, an investigation was launched. It turned out that a few days before they were found, the unfortunate men had stolen a canoe from the locals, and for that act of violence and injustice, they lost their lives.

Notwithstanding these circumstances, a party of natives in their canoes went alongside the Sirius, and some submitted to the operation of shaving: after which they landed on the western point of the cove, where they examined every thing they saw with the greatest attention, and went away peaceably, and apparently were not under any apprehension of resentment on our parts for the murders above-mentioned.

Despite these circumstances, a group of locals in their canoes approached the Sirius, and some agreed to have their heads shaved. After that, they went to the western point of the cove, where they carefully looked over everything they saw, then left peacefully and seemed unconcerned about any anger from us regarding the earlier murders.

June.] The governor, however, on hearing that the two rushcutters had been killed, thought it absolutely necessary to endeavour to find out, and, if possible, secure the people who killed them; for which purpose he set off with a strong party well armed, and landed in the cove where their bodies had been found; whence he struck across the country to Botany Bay, where on the beach he saw about fifty canoes, but none of their owners. In a cove on the sea-side, between Botany Bay and Port Jackson, he suddenly fell in with an armed party of natives, in number between two and three hundred, men, women, and children. With these a friendly intercourse directly took place, and some spears, etc. were exchanged for hatchets; but the murderers of the rush-cutters, if they were amongst them, could not be discovered in the crowd. The governor hoped to have found the people still at the place where the men had been killed, in which case he would have endeavoured to secure some of them; but, not having any fixed residence, they had, perhaps, left the spot immediately after glutting their sanguinary resentment.

June.] The governor, upon learning that the two rushcutters had been killed, felt it was essential to try to find and, if possible, capture the people responsible for their deaths. To accomplish this, he set out with a well-armed group and landed in the cove where the bodies were found. From there, he trekked across the land to Botany Bay, where he noticed about fifty canoes but none of their owners. In a cove along the coast, between Botany Bay and Port Jackson, he unexpectedly encountered an armed group of natives, numbering between two and three hundred, including men, women, and children. A friendly exchange occurred immediately, and some spears were traded for hatchets; however, it was not possible to identify the murderers of the rushcutters among the crowd. The governor had hoped to find the individuals still at the site of the killings, in which case he would have attempted to capture some of them. However, since they did not have a permanent settlement, they likely left the area right after acting out their violent revenge.

His Majesty's birthday was kept with every attention that it was possible to distinguish it by in this country; the morning was ushered in by the discharge of twenty-one guns from the Sirius and Supply; on shore the colours were hoisted at the flag-staff, and at noon the detachment of marines fired three volleys; after which the officers of the civil and military establishment waited upon the governor, and paid their respects to his excellency in honor of the day. At one o'clock the ships of war again fired twenty-one guns each; and the transports in the cove made up the same number between them, according to their irregular method on those occasions. The officers of the navy and settlement were entertained by the governor at dinner, and, among other toasts, named and fixed the boundaries of the first county in his Majesty's territory of New South Wales. This was called Cumberland County, in honor of his Majesty's second brother; and the limits of it to the northward were fixed by the northernmost point of Broken Bay, to the southward by the southernmost point of Broken [sic] Bay, and to the westward by Lansdown and Carmarthen Hills (the name given to the range of mountains seen by the governor in an excursion to the northward). At sunset the ships of war paid their last compliment to his Majesty by a third time firing twenty-one guns each. At night several bonfires were lighted; and, by an allowance of spirits given on this particular occasion, every person in the colony was enabled to drink his Majesty's health.

His Majesty's birthday was celebrated with every possible effort to make it special in this country. The morning started with twenty-one gun salutes from the Sirius and Supply; on land, the colors were raised at the flagstaff, and at noon, the marines fired three volleys. After that, the civil and military officials visited the governor to show their respects in honor of the day. At one o'clock, the warships fired another twenty-one guns each, and the transports in the cove matched that number together, following their usual practice for occasions like this. The governor hosted a dinner for the navy and settlement officers, and during the event, he declared the boundaries of the first county in his Majesty's territory of New South Wales. This was named Cumberland County in honor of his Majesty's second brother, with the northern boundary set by the northernmost point of Broken Bay, to the south by the southernmost point of Broken Bay, and to the west by Lansdown and Carmarthen Hills, named after the mountains the governor saw during a trip north. At sunset, the warships honored his Majesty once more by firing another twenty-one guns each. At night, several bonfires were lit, and thanks to a special allowance of spirits provided for the occasion, everyone in the colony was able to toast his Majesty's health.

Some of the worst among the convicts availed themselves of the opportunity that was given them in the evening, by the absence of several of the officers and people from their tents and huts, to commit depredations. One officer on going to his tent found a man in it, whom with some difficulty he secured, after wounding him with his sword. The tent of another was broken into, and several articles of wearing apparel stolen out of it; and many smaller thefts of provisions and clothing were committed among the convicts. Several people were taken into custody, and two were afterwards tried and executed. One of these had absconded, and lived in the woods for nineteen days, existing by what he was able to procure by nocturnal depredations among the huts and stock of individuals. His visits for this purpose were so frequent and daring, that it became absolutely necessary to proclaim him an outlaw, as well as to declare that no person must harbour him after such proclamation.

Some of the worst convicts took advantage of the opportunity that arose in the evening when several officers and people were away from their tents and huts to commit thefts. One officer returned to his tent to find a man inside, whom he was able to capture with some effort, after injuring him with his sword. Another officer's tent was broken into, and several items of clothing were stolen. Many smaller thefts of food and clothing occurred among the convicts. Several individuals were arrested, and two were later tried and executed. One of them had escaped and lived in the woods for nineteen days, surviving by stealing from the huts and belongings of others at night. His visits for this purpose became so frequent and bold that it became necessary to declare him an outlaw and to state that no one should provide him shelter after the proclamation.

Exemplary punishments seemed about this period to be growing daily more necessary. Stock was often killed, huts and tents broke open, and provisions constantly stolen about the latter end of the week; for among the convicts there were many who knew not how to husband their provisions through the seven days they were intended to serve them, but were known to have consumed the whole at the end of the third or fourth day. One of this description made his week's allowance of flour (eight pounds) into eighteen cakes, which he devoured at one meal; he was soon after taken speechless and senseless, and died the following day at the hospital, a loathsome putrid object.

Exemplary punishments seemed to be becoming increasingly necessary around this time. Livestock was often killed, huts and tents were broken into, and provisions were constantly stolen toward the end of the week. Among the convicts, many didn't know how to stretch their supplies over the seven days they were meant to last, and it was common for them to have consumed everything by the third or fourth day. One person like this made his week's ration of flour (eight pounds) into eighteen cakes, which he devoured in one sitting. He was soon found speechless and unresponsive, and died the next day in the hospital, a disgusting and decayed sight.

The obvious consequence of this want of economy was, that he who had three days to live, and nothing to live on, before the store would be again open to supply his wants, must steal from those who had been more provident. Had a few persons been sent out who were not of the description of convicts, to have acted as overseers, or superintendants, regulations for their internal economy, as well in the articles of clothing as provisions, might have been formed which would have prevented these evils: it would then too have been more practicable to detect them in selling or exchanging the slops which they received, and their provisions would have been subject to a daily inspection. But overseers drawn from among themselves were found not to have that influence which was so absolutely necessary to carry any regulation into effect. And although the convicts, previous to the birthday, were assembled, and their duty pointed out to them, as well as the certain consequence of a breach or neglect thereof, both by his excellency the governor and the lieutenant-governor, yet it soon appeared that there were some among them so inured to the habits of vice, and so callous to remonstrance, that they were only restrained until a favourable opportunity presented itself.

The clear result of this lack of resources was that someone who had three days to live and nothing to eat, before the store would open again to meet their needs, had to steal from those who had been more careful. If a few individuals who weren’t convicts had been sent to act as supervisors or managers, rules for their internal economy, regarding both clothing and food, could have been established to avoid these issues. It would have also been easier to catch them selling or trading the supplies they received, and their food could have been checked daily. However, supervisors chosen from among themselves didn’t have the necessary influence to enforce any regulations effectively. Even though, before the governor's birthday, the convicts were gathered and informed about their duties and the serious consequences of breaking them by both the governor and the lieutenant-governor, it quickly became evident that some of them were so accustomed to a life of crime and so indifferent to warnings that they were only held back until a good opportunity came along.

The convicts who had been sent to the rock, in the hope that lenity to them might operate also upon others, were, on the occasion of his Majesty's birthday, liberated from their chains and confinement, and his excellency forgave the offences of which they had been respectively guilty, and which had occasioned their being sent thither.

The prisoners who had been sent to the rock, in the hope that showing them mercy might influence others, were released from their chains and confinement on the occasion of the King's birthday. The Governor pardoned the offenses they had committed, which led to their sentencing.

By some strange and unpardonable neglect in the convict who had been entrusted with the care of the cattle, the two bulls and four cows were lost in the beginning of this month. The man had been accustomed to drive them out daily to seek the freshest grass and best pasturage, and was ordered never on any pretence to leave them. To this order, as it afterwards appeared, he very seldom attended, frequently coming in from the woods about noon to get his dinner, leaving them grazing at some little distance from the farm where they were kept; and in this manner they were lost. They had strayed from the spot he expected to find them on, or perhaps had been driven from it by the natives, and he spent two days in searching for them before the governor was made acquainted with the accident.

Due to some odd and unacceptable negligence by the convict responsible for the cattle, the two bulls and four cows went missing at the beginning of this month. He was supposed to take them out every day to find the freshest grass and best pasture and was instructed never to leave them unattended. As it turned out, he rarely followed this order, often coming back from the woods around noon for his lunch and leaving them to graze some distance away from the farm. This is how they got lost. They strayed from the location where he figured they would be, or maybe they were chased away by the locals, and he spent two days searching for them before informing the governor about the incident.

Several parties were successively sent out to endeavour the recovery of stock so essential to the colony; but constantly returned without success.

Several groups were sent out one after the other to try to recover the stock that was vital to the colony, but they always came back empty-handed.

On the 27th a party of the natives, supposed to be in number from twenty to thirty, landed at the point on the east side of the cove, between the hours of eleven and twelve at night, and proceeded along close by the sentinels, stopping for some time at the spot where the governor's house was building, and in the rear of the tents inhabited by some of the women. It was said that they appeared alarmed on hearing the sentinels call out 'All is well,' and, after standing there for some time, went off toward the run of water. The sentinels were very positive that they saw them, and were minute in their relation of the above circumstances; notwithstanding which, it was conjectured by many to be only the effect of imagination. It is true, the natives might have chosen that hour of the night to gratify a curiosity that would naturally be excited on finding that we still resided among them; and perhaps for the purpose of observing whether we all passed the night in sleep.

On the 27th, a group of locals, estimated to be between twenty and thirty, landed at the point on the east side of the cove between eleven and midnight. They moved closely by the sentinels, pausing for a while at the site where the governor's house was under construction and behind the tents where some of the women lived. It was reported that they seemed startled when they heard the sentinels shout “All is well,” and after lingering for a bit, they headed towards the water source. The sentinels were very sure they saw them and provided detailed accounts of what happened; however, many speculated it was just their imagination. It’s possible the locals chose that late hour out of curiosity about our continued presence among them, maybe to see if we all slept through the night.

The cold weather which we had at this time of the year was observed to affect our fishing, and the natives themselves appeared to be in great want. An old man belonging to them was found on the beach of one of the coves, almost starved to death.

The cold weather we experienced at this time of year was seen to impact our fishing, and the local people seemed to be in a lot of need. An elderly man from their group was discovered on the beach of one of the coves, nearly starved to death.

It having been reported, that one of the natives who had stolen a jacket from a convict had afterwards been killed or wounded by him in an attempt to recover it, the governor issued a proclamation, promising a free pardon, with remission of the sentence of transportation, to such male or female convict as should give information of any such offender or offenders, so that he or they might be brought to trial, and prosecuted to conviction; but no discovery was made in consequence of this offer.

It was reported that one of the locals who stole a jacket from a convict was later killed or injured by that convict while trying to get it back. In response, the governor issued a proclamation, offering a full pardon and the cancellation of the transportation sentence to any male or female convict who provided information about such an offender or offenders, so that they could be brought to trial and convicted. However, no information was revealed as a result of this offer.

In the afternoon of the 22nd a slight shock of an earthquake was observed, which lasted two or three seconds, and was accompanied with a distant noise like the report of cannon, coming from the southward; the shock was local, and so slight that many people did not feel it.

In the afternoon of the 22nd, a slight earthquake tremor was detected, lasting two to three seconds, and it was accompanied by a distant sound resembling cannon fire coming from the south. The tremor was localized and so mild that many people didn’t notice it.

July.] The Alexander, Prince of Wales, and Friendship transports, with the Borrowdale storeship, having completed their preparations for sea, sailed together on the 14th of the month for England. Two officers from the detachment of marines, Lieutenant Maxwell and Lieutenant Collins, were embarked as passengers; these gentlemen having obtained permission to return to Europe for the recovery of their healths, which had been in a bade state from the time of their arrival in the country.

July.] The Alexander, Prince of Wales, and Friendship transport ships, along with the Borrowdale storeship, finished getting ready for sea and set sail together on the 14th of the month for England. Two officers from the marine detachment, Lieutenant Maxwell and Lieutenant Collins, were on board as passengers; they had received permission to return to Europe to recover their health, which had been poor since their arrival in the country.

The following report was made by the principal surgeon, of the state of the sick in the settlement, at the time of the departure of the ships:

The following report was made by the head surgeon about the condition of the sick in the settlement at the time the ships left:

The number of marines under medical treatment were 36 The number of convicts under medical treatment were 66 Convicts unfit for labour from old age and infirmities 52

The number of marines receiving medical treatment was 36. The number of convicts receiving medical treatment was 66. Convicts unfit for labor due to old age and infirmities numbered 52.

And if idleness might have been taken into the account, as well it might, since many were thereby rendered of very little service to the colony, the number would have been greatly augmented.

And if laziness had been considered, which it certainly could have been, since many people were of very little help to the colony because of it, the number would have been significantly higher.

It was now necessary to think of Norfolk Island; and on the 20th the Supply sailed with stores and provisions for that settlement.

It was now time to consider Norfolk Island; and on the 20th, the Supply set sail with supplies and provisions for that settlement.

Only two transports remained of the fleet that came out from England; these were the Golden Grove and Fishburn, and preparations were making for clearing and discharging them from government service. The people were employed in constructing a cellar on the west side for receiving the spirits which were on board the Fishburn, and in landing provisions from the Golden Grove, which were stowed in the large storehouse by some seamen belonging to the Sirius, under the inspection of the master of that ship.

Only two ships were left from the fleet that came from England; these were the Golden Grove and Fishburn, and plans were in place to prepare them for decommissioning from government service. The crew was busy building a cellar on the west side to store the liquor that was on the Fishburn, and they were unloading supplies from the Golden Grove, which were being stored in the large warehouse by some sailors from the Sirius, under the supervision of that ship's captain.

From the nature of the materials with which most of the huts occupied by the convicts were covered in, many accidents happened by fire, whereby the labour of several people was lost, who had again to seek shelter for themselves, and in general had to complain of the destruction of provisions and clothing. To prevent this, an order was given, prohibiting the building of chimneys in future in such huts as were thatched.

Due to the materials used to cover most of the huts occupied by the convicts, many fires occurred, resulting in the loss of work for several people who then had to find shelter again, and overall, they had to deal with losing their food and clothing. To address this issue, a rule was implemented, banning the construction of chimneys in any thatched huts moving forward.

Several thefts were committed by and among the convicts. Wine was stolen from the hospital, and some of those who had the care of it were taken upon suspicion and tried, but for want of sufficient evidence were acquitted. There was such a tenderness in these people to each other's guilt, such an acquaintance with vice and the different degrees of it, that unless they were detected in the fact, it was generally next to impossible to bring an offence home to them. As there was, however, little doubt, though no positive proof of their guilt, they were removed from the hospital, and placed under the direction of the officer who was then employed in constructing a small redoubt on the east side.

Several thefts occurred among the inmates. Wine was stolen from the hospital, and some of the staff responsible for it were suspected and put on trial, but due to a lack of enough evidence, they were acquitted. There was a strong sense of loyalty among these individuals regarding each other's wrongdoing, and they were familiar with vice and its various levels, making it almost impossible to pin any offense on them unless they were caught in the act. However, there was little doubt about their guilt, even without solid proof, so they were moved from the hospital and placed under the oversight of the officer who was currently working on building a small fortress on the east side.

The natives, who had been accustomed to assist our people in hauling the seine, and were content to wait for such reward as the person who had the direction of the boat thought proper to give them, either driven by hunger, or moved by some other cause, came down to the cove where they were fishing, and, perceiving that they had been more successful than usual, took by force about half of what had been brought on shore. They were all armed with spears and other weapons, and made their attack with some show of method, having a party stationed in the rear with their spears poised, in readiness to throw, if any resistance had been made. To prevent this in future, it was ordered that a petty officer should go in the boats whenever they were sent down the harbour.

The locals, who had been used to helping our people haul in the net and were fine with the rewards given by the boat's captain, either out of hunger or some other reason, came down to the cove where they were fishing. Seeing that they had had more success than usual, they forcefully took about half of what had been brought to shore. They were all armed with spears and other weapons, and they attacked in a somewhat organized manner, with a group positioned in the back, spears ready to throw if any resistance arose. To prevent this from happening again, it was decided that a junior officer should go in the boats whenever they were sent down the harbor.

No precautions, however, that could be taken, or orders that were given, to prevent accidents happening by misconduct on our part, had any weight with the convicts. On the evening of the 27th one of them was brought in wounded by the natives. He had left the encampment with another convict, to gather vegetables, and, contrary to the orders which had been repeatedly given, went nearly as far as Botany Bay, where they fell in with a party of the natives, who made signs to them to go back, which they did, but unfortunately ran different ways. This being observed by the natives, they threw their spears at them. One of them was fortunate enough to escape unhurt, but the other received two spears in him, one entering a little above his left ear, the other in his breast. He took to an arm of the bay, which, notwithstanding his wounds, he swam across, and reported that the natives stood on the bank laughing at him.

No precautions we could take or orders we gave to prevent accidents caused by our misconduct made any difference to the convicts. On the evening of the 27th, one of them was brought in injured by the natives. He had left the encampment with another convict to gather vegetables, and, despite the repeated orders not to, they went almost as far as Botany Bay, where they encountered a group of natives who gestured for them to go back. They did, but unfortunately ran in different directions. The natives saw this and threw their spears at them. One of them managed to escape unhurt, but the other was hit by two spears, one just above his left ear and the other in his chest. He swam across a part of the bay despite his injuries and reported that the natives were standing on the shore laughing at him.

Much credit, indeed, was not to be given to any of their accounts; but it must be remarked, that every accident that had happened was occasioned by a breach of positive orders repeatedly given.

Much credit, indeed, shouldn't be placed on any of their accounts; however, it should be noted that every incident that occurred was caused by a violation of clear orders that had been given multiple times.

Still, notwithstanding this appearance of hostility in some of the natives, others were more friendly. In one of the adjoining coves resided a family of them, who were visited by large parties of the convicts of both sexes on those days in which they were not wanted for labour, where they danced and sung with apparent good humour, and received such presents as they could afford to make them; but none of them would venture back with their visitors.

Still, despite some of the natives seeming hostile, others were friendlier. In one of the nearby coves lived a family of them, who were visited by large groups of convicts of both genders on days when they weren’t needed for work. They danced and sang with visible cheerfulness and offered whatever gifts they could afford to share with their visitors, but none of them would risk coming back with them.

CHAPTER IV

Heavy rains
Public works
Sheep stolen
Prince of Wale's birthday
Fish
Imposition of a convict
Natives
Apprehensive of a failure of provisions
Natives
Judicial administration
A convict murdered

Heavy rains
Public works
Sheep stolen
Prince of Wales' birthday
Fish
Imposition of a convict
Indigenous people
Worried about a shortage of supplies
Indigenous people
Judicial administration
A convict was murdered

August.] All public labour was suspended for many days in the beginning of the month of August by heavy rain; and the work of much time was also rendered fruitless by its effects; the brick-kiln fell in more than once, and bricks to a large amount were destroyed; the roads about the settlement were rendered impassable; and some of the huts were so far injured, as to require nearly as much labour to repair them as to build them anew. It was not until the 14th of the month, when the weather cleared up, that the people were again able to work. The public works then in hand were, the barracks for the marine detachment; an observatory on the west point of the cove; the houses erecting for the governor and the lieutenant-governor; and the shingling of the hospital.

August.] All public work was put on hold for many days at the start of August due to heavy rain, and a lot of efforts were wasted because of it. The brick kiln collapsed more than once, destroying a significant amount of bricks. The roads around the settlement became impassable, and some of the huts were damaged enough that it took almost as much work to fix them as it would to build them from scratch. It wasn't until the 14th of the month, when the weather cleared up, that people were able to work again. The public projects in progress were the barracks for the marine detachment, an observatory on the west point of the cove, houses being built for the governor and lieutenant-governor, and the roofing of the hospital.

Thefts among the convicts during the bad weather were frequent; and a sheep was stolen from the farm on the east side a few nights prior to the birthday of his royal highness the Prince of Wales, for celebrating of which it had been for some time kept separate from the others and fattened; and although a proclamation was issued by the governor offering a pardon, and the highest reward his excellency could offer, emancipation, to any male or female convict who should discover the person or persons concerned in the felony, except the person who actually stole or killed the sheep, no information was given that could lead to a discovery of the perpetrators of this offence.

Thefts among the inmates during the bad weather were common; a sheep was taken from the farm on the east side a few nights before the birthday of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, for which it had been kept separate and fattened for some time. Even though the governor issued a proclamation offering a pardon and the highest reward his excellency could give, which was freedom, to any male or female inmate who could identify the person or people involved in the crime (except the one who actually stole or killed the sheep), no useful information was provided that could lead to discovering the culprits of this crime.

The anniversary of the Prince of Wales's birth was observed by a cessation from all kinds of labour. At noon the troops fired three volleys at the flag-staff on the east side, after which the governor received the compliments usual on this occasion. The Sirius fired a royal salute at one o'clock, and a public dinner was given by the governor. Bonfires were lighted on each side of the cove at night, with which the ceremonies of the day concluded.

The anniversary of the Prince of Wales's birth was marked by a halt to all work. At noon, the troops fired three volleys at the flagpole on the east side, after which the governor received the usual congratulatory messages. The Sirius fired a royal salute at one o'clock, and the governor hosted a public dinner. Bonfires were lit on both sides of the cove at night, which concluded the day's celebrations.

It had been imagined in England, that some, if not considerable savings of provisions might be made, by the quantities of fish that it was supposed would be taken; but nothing like an equivalent for the ration that was issued to the colony for a single day had ever been brought up.

It was thought in England that some, if not significant, savings on food supplies could be made by the amount of fish expected to be caught; however, nothing close to the amount needed for the colony's daily ration was ever brought in.

We were informed, that the French ships, while in Botany Bay, had met with one very successful haul of large fish, that more than amply supplied both ships companies; but our people were not so fortunate. Fish enough was sometimes taken to supply about two hundred persons; but the quantity very rarely exceeded this. Three sting-rays were taken this month, two of which weighed each about three hundred weight, and were distributed amongst the people.

We were told that the French ships, while in Botany Bay, had one really successful catch of large fish that more than enough fed both ship crews; but our people weren't as lucky. There were times when enough fish was caught to feed about two hundred people, but it seldom exceeded that. This month, three stingrays were caught, two of which weighed around three hundred pounds each and were shared with the people.

His royal highness Prince William Henry's birthday was distinguished by displaying the colours at the flag-staff; and this compliment was paid to other branches of the royal family whose birthdays were not directed to be observed with more ceremony.

His royal highness Prince William Henry's birthday was marked by raising the flags at the flagpole; this gesture was also extended to other members of the royal family whose birthdays weren't designated for more formal celebration.

On the 26th the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent five weeks and two days. From the commandant the most favourable accounts were received of the richness and depth of the soil and salubrity of the climate, having been visited with very little rain, or thunder and lightning. His search after the flax-plant had been successful; where he had cleared the ground he found it growing spontaneously and luxuriant: a small species of plaintain also had been discovered. His gardens promised an ample supply of vegetables; but his seed-wheat, having been heated in the long passage to this country, turned out to be damaged, and did not vegetate. The landing was found to be very dangerous, and he had the misfortune to lose Mr. Cunningham, the midshipman, with three people, and the boat they were in, by the surf on the reef, a few days before the Supply sailed. Short, however, as the time was, the carpenter of chat vessel replaced the boat by building him a coble of the timber of the island, constructed purposely for going without the reef, and for the hazardous employ she must often be engaged in.

On the 26th, the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been away for five weeks and two days. From the commandant, we received very positive reports about the richness and depth of the soil and the healthiness of the climate, which had experienced very little rain, thunder, or lightning. His search for the flax plant had been successful; wherever he cleared the land, he found it growing naturally and abundantly. A small type of plantain was also discovered. His gardens promised a good supply of vegetables, but his seed wheat was damaged during the long journey to this country and did not sprout. The landing was found to be quite dangerous, and unfortunately, he lost Mr. Cunningham, the midshipman, along with three others and the boat they were in, due to the surf on the reef just days before the Supply sailed. However, despite the short time available, the carpenter of that vessel replaced the boat by building a coble from the island's timber, specifically designed for going beyond the reef and for the risky job she would often have to do.

The settlement at Sydney Cove was for some time amused with an account of the existence and discovery of a gold mine; and the impostor had ingenuity enough to impose a fabricated tale on several of the officers for truth. He pretended to have found it at some distance down the harbour; and, offering to conduct an officer to the spot, a boat was provided; but immediately on landing, having previously prevailed on the officer to send away the boat, to prevent his discovery being made public to more than one person, he made a pretence to leave him, and, reaching the settlement some hours before the officer, reported that he had been sent up by him for a guard. The fellow knew too well the consequences that would follow on the officer's arrival to wait for that, and therefore set off directly into the woods, whence he returned the day following, when he was punished with fifty lashes for his imposition. Still, however, persisting that he had discovered a metal, a specimen of which he produced, the governor, who was absent from the settlement at the opening of the business, but had now returned, ordered him to be taken again down the harbour, with directions to his adjutant to land him on the place the man should point out, and keep him in his sight; but on being assured by that officer, that if he attempted to deceive him he would put him to death, the man saved him the trouble of going far with him, and confessed that his story of having discovered a gold mine was a falsehood which he had propagated the hope of imposing on the people belonging to the Fishburn and Golden Grove, from whom, being about to prepare for Europe, he expected to procure cloathing and other articles in return for his promised gold-dust; and that he had fabricated the specimens of the metal which he had exhibited, from a guinea and a brass buckle; the remains of which he then produced.

The settlement at Sydney Cove was entertained for a while by a story about the existence and discovery of a gold mine, and the fraudster was clever enough to convince several officers that his tall tale was true. He claimed to have found the mine some distance down the harbor and offered to take an officer there. A boat was arranged, but as soon as they landed, he had the officer send the boat away to keep his discovery secret from all but one person. He pretended to leave the officer and, making it back to the settlement several hours before him, reported that he had been sent for a guard. The scammer was aware of the trouble he would face upon the officer's arrival, so he headed straight into the woods and returned the next day, only to be punished with fifty lashes for his deceit. Nonetheless, he continued to insist that he had discovered a type of metal and produced a specimen. The governor, who had been absent during the initial incident but had now returned, ordered that the man be taken back down the harbor, instructing his adjutant to land him where he indicated and keep him in view. The adjutant warned the man that if he tried to deceive him, he would be killed. The fraudster quickly confessed that his story about discovering a gold mine was a lie intended to dupe the crew of the Fishburn and Golden Grove, from whom he hoped to get clothes and other supplies in exchange for fake gold dust as he prepared to leave for Europe. He revealed that he had made the specimens of the metal he had shown from a guinea and a brass buckle, which he then produced as evidence.

For this imposture he was afterwards ordered by the magistrates before whom he was examined to receive a hundred lashes, and to wear a canvas frock, with the letter R cut and sewn upon it, to distinguish him more particularly from others as a rogue.

For this deception, he was later ordered by the magistrates who examined him to receive a hundred lashes and to wear a canvas smock with the letter R cut and sewn onto it, so that he could be particularly distinguished from others as a rogue.

Among the people of his own description, there were many who believed, notwithstanding his confession and punishment, that he had actually made the discovery he pretended, and was induced to say it was a fabrication merely to secure it to himself, to make use of at a future opportunity. So easy is it to impose on the minds of the lower class of people!

Among the people like him, many believed that despite his confession and punishment, he had really made the discovery he claimed to have, and he only said it was a lie to keep it for himself to use later. It's so easy to trick the minds of the lower class!

The natives continued to molest our people whenever they chanced to meet any of them straggling and unarmed; yet, although forcibly warned by the evil and danger that attended their straggling, the latter still continued to give the natives opportunity of injuring them. About the middle of the month a convict, who had wandered beyond the limits of security which had been pointed out for them, fell in with a party of natives, about fourteen in number, who stripped and beat him shockingly, and would have murdered him had they not heard the report of a musket, which alarming them, they ran away, leaving him his clothes. On the 21st a party of natives landed from five canoes, near the point where the observatory was building, where, some of them engaging the attention of the officers and people at the observatory, the others attempted forcibly to take off a goat from the people at the hospital; in which attempt finding themselves resisted by a seaman who happened to be present, they menaced him with their spears, and, on his retiring, killed the animal and took it off in a canoe, making off toward Long Cove with much expedition. They were followed immediately by the governor, who got up with some of the party, but could neither recover the goat, nor meet with the people who had killed it.

The locals kept attacking our people whenever they encountered anyone wandering alone and unarmed; however, despite being forcibly warned about the dangers of straggling, they continued to give the locals opportunities to harm them. Around the middle of the month, a convict who had wandered outside the designated safe areas ran into a group of about fourteen locals, who stripped and beat him severely, and would have killed him if they hadn't heard the sound of a musket. This frightened them off, leaving him with his clothes. On the 21st, a group of locals arrived in five canoes near the site where the observatory was being built. While some of them distracted the officers and workers at the observatory, others tried to steal a goat from the hospital. When a seaman who was there tried to stop them, they threatened him with their spears, and when he backed off, they killed the goat and took it away in a canoe, making a quick escape toward Long Cove. The governor immediately followed after some of them and managed to catch up with part of the group but was unable to recover the goat or find the people who had killed it.

It was much to be regretted, that none of them would place a confidence in and reside among us; as in such case, by an exchange of languages, they would have found that we had the most friendly intention toward them, and that we would ourselves punish any injury they might sustain from our people.

It was really unfortunate that none of them would trust us and live among us; if they had, through exchanging languages, they would have realized that we had the most friendly intentions toward them and that we would take action against anyone from our side who harmed them.

September.] The seed-wheat that was sown here did not turn out any better than that at Norfolk Island; in some places the ground was twice cropped, and there was reason to apprehend a failure of seed for the next year. The governor, therefore, early in this month, signified his intention of sending the Sirius to the Cape of Good Hope, to procure a sufficient quantity of grain for that purpose; together with as much flour for the settlement as she could stow, after laying in a twelvemonth's provisions for her ship's company. Her destination was intended to have been to the northward; but on making a calculation, and comparing the accounts of those navigators who had procured refreshments among the islands, it was found, that although she might provide very well for herself, yet, after an absence of three or four months, which would be the least time she would be gone, she could not bring more than would support the colony for a fortnight. At the same time his excellency made known his intention of establishing a settlement on some ground which he had seen at the head of this harbour when he made his excursion to the westward in April last, and which, from its form, he had named the Crescent. This measure appeared the more expedient, as the soil in and about the settlement seemed to be very indifferent and unproductive, and by no means so favourable for the growth of grain as that at the Crescent.

September.] The seed wheat that was planted here didn't turn out any better than what was sown at Norfolk Island; in some areas, the land was double cropped, raising concerns about running out of seed for next year. Therefore, early this month, the governor indicated he would send the Sirius to the Cape of Good Hope to get enough grain for that purpose, along with as much flour for the settlement as she could carry after stocking up on a year’s worth of supplies for her crew. She was originally supposed to head north, but after assessing the situation and reviewing reports from navigators who had found supplies among the islands, it became clear that while she could sufficiently supply herself, after being gone for three or four months—the minimum time she would be away—she wouldn't be able to bring back enough to sustain the colony for more than two weeks. Simultaneously, his excellency announced his plan to establish a settlement on a piece of land he had seen at the head of this harbor during his trip west in April, which he named the Crescent due to its shape. This decision seemed more practical, as the soil in and around the settlement appeared poor and unproductive, not nearly as suitable for growing grain as the land at the Crescent.

The Sirius was therefore ordered to prepare for her voyage with all expedition; and as she would be enabled to stow a greater quantity of flour by not taking all her guns, eight of them were landed on the west point of the cove, and a small breast-work thrown up in front of them.

The Sirius was then directed to get ready for her voyage as quickly as possible; since she could carry more flour by leaving some of her guns behind, eight of them were unloaded at the western point of the cove, and a small barricade was built in front of them.

The master of the Golden Grove storeship also was ordered to prepare for sea, the governor intending to employ that ship in taking provisions and stores, with a party of convicts, to Norfolk Island.

The captain of the Golden Grove storeship was also instructed to get ready for departure, as the governor planned to use that ship to transport supplies and goods, along with a group of convicts, to Norfolk Island.

The stores of the detachment having been kept on board the Sirius until a building could be erected for their reception, and a storehouse for that purpose being now ready, they were removed on shore.

The supplies for the team were kept on the Sirius until a building could be constructed for them, and now that a storage facility is ready, they were taken ashore.

Two boats, one of eight and another of sixteen oars, having been sent out in frame for the use of the settlement, the carpenter of the Supply was employed in putting them together during that vessel's day in port, and one of them, the eight-oared boat, was got into the water this month; but the want of a schooner or two, of from thirty to forty tons burden, to be employed in surveying this coast, was much felt and lamented.

Two boats, one with eight oars and the other with sixteen, were sent out for the settlement's use. The carpenter from the Supply was busy assembling them while the ship was in port. This month, they managed to launch the eight-oared boat, but there was a strong desire and regret over the lack of one or two schooners, each weighing between thirty and forty tons, to be used for surveying the coast.

We had now given up all hope of recovering the cattle which were so unfortunately lost in May last; and the only cow that remained not being at that time with calf, and having since become wild and dangerous, the lieutenant-governor, whose property she was, directed her to be killed; she was accordingly shot at his farm, it being found impracticable to secure and slaughter her in the common way.

We had completely lost hope of finding the cattle that were tragically lost last May. The only cow left wasn’t pregnant at the time and had since become wild and dangerous. The lieutenant-governor, who owned her, ordered that she be killed. So, she was shot on his farm, as it was deemed impractical to catch and butcher her in the usual manner.

About the middle of September several canoes passed the Sirius, and above 30 natives landed from them at the observatory or western point of the cove. They were armed, and, it was imagined, intended to take off some sheep from thence; but, if this was their intention, they were prevented by the appearance of two gentlemen who happened to be there unarmed; and, after throwing some stones, they took to their canoes and paddled off.

About the middle of September, several canoes passed the Sirius, and more than 30 locals landed from them at the observatory or western point of the cove. They were armed, and it was thought that they planned to steal some sheep from there; however, if that was their plan, they were stopped by the presence of two gentlemen who happened to be there unarmed. After throwing some stones, they got back in their canoes and paddled away.

On the 25th the people in the fishing-boat reported that several spears were thrown at them by some of the natives; for no other reason, than that, after giving them freely what small fish they had taken, they refused them a large one which attracted their attention.

On the 25th, the people in the fishing boat reported that several spears were thrown at them by some of the natives, simply because, after giving them freely the small fish they had caught, they refused to give them a large one that had caught their attention.

On the 30th one midshipman and two seamen from the Sirius, one sergeant, one corporal, and five private marines, and twenty-one male and eleven female convicts, embarked on board the Golden Grove for Norfolk Island, and the day following she dropped down, with his Majesty's ship Sirius, to Camp Cove, whence both ships sailed on the 2nd of October.

On the 30th, one midshipman and two seamen from the Sirius, one sergeant, one corporal, five private marines, and twenty-one men and eleven women prisoners boarded the Golden Grove for Norfolk Island. The next day, it moved down to Camp Cove with His Majesty's ship Sirius, and both ships set sail on October 2nd.

October.] Captain Hunter, having been sworn as a magistrate soon after the arrival of the fleet, continued to act in that capacity until his departure for the Cape of Good Hope, sitting generally once a week, with the judge-advocate and the surveyor-general, to inquire into petty offences. Saturday was commonly set apart for these examinations; that day being given to the convicts for the purpose of collecting vegetables and attending to their huts and gardens.

October.] Captain Hunter, who was sworn in as a magistrate shortly after the fleet arrived, continued to serve in that role until he left for the Cape of Good Hope. He typically held court once a week, alongside the judge-advocate and the surveyor-general, to investigate minor offenses. Saturdays were usually designated for these hearings, as that day was allocated for the convicts to gather vegetables and take care of their huts and gardens.

The detachment also finding it convenient to collect vegetables, and being obliged to go for them as far as Botany Bay, the convicts were ordered to avail themselves of the protection they might find by going in company with an armed party; an never, upon any account, to straggle from the soldiers, or go to Botany Bay without them, on pain of severe punishment. Notwithstanding this order and precaution, however, a convict, who had been looked upon as a good man (no complaint having been made of him since his landing, either for dishonesty or idleness), having gone out with an armed party to procure vegetables at Botany Bay, straggled from them, though repeatedly cautioned against it, and was killed by the natives. On the return of the soldiers from the bay, he was found lying dead in the path, his head beat to a Jelly, a spear driven through it, another through his body, and one arm broken. Some people were immediately sent out to bury him; and in the course of the month the parties who went by the spot for vegetables three times reported that his body was above ground, having been, it was supposed, torn up by the natives' dogs. This poor wretch furnished another instance of the consequences that attended a disobedience of orders which had been purposely given to prevent these accidents; and as nothing of the kind was known to happen, but where a neglect and contempt of all order was first shown, every misfortune of the kind might be attributed, not to the manners and disposition of the natives, but to the obstinacy and ignorance of our people.

The group also found it useful to gather vegetables, having to travel all the way to Botany Bay for them. The convicts were instructed to stay close to an armed party for protection and were told never to wander away from the soldiers or go to Botany Bay without them, or face severe punishment. However, despite this warning and precaution, a convict who was considered a good guy (no complaints had been made about him since he arrived, either for dishonesty or laziness) went out with an armed group to get vegetables at Botany Bay, strayed from them despite being warned repeatedly, and was killed by the locals. When the soldiers returned from the bay, they found him lying dead on the path, his head smashed in, a spear through it, another spear through his body, and one arm broken. Some people were immediately sent out to bury him; and over the course of the month, groups passing the spot for vegetables three times reported that his body was above ground, likely disturbed by the locals' dogs. This unfortunate man provided another example of the consequences that followed disobeying orders that had been specifically given to prevent such incidents. Since nothing like this had ever happened without first showing neglect and disregard for all rules, every misfortune could be attributed, not to the behavior and nature of the locals, but to the stubbornness and ignorance of our people.

On the departure of the Sirius, one pound of flour was deducted from the weekly ration of those who received the full proportion, and two-thirds of a pound from such as were at two-thirds allowance. The settlement was to continue at this ration until the return of the Sirius, which was expected not to exceed six months. But public labour was not affected by this reduction. The cellar being completed and ready for the reception of the spirits that were on board the Fishburn, they were landed from that ship; and she, being cleared and discharged from government employ, hove down, and prepared for her return to England.

On the departure of the Sirius, one pound of flour was taken from the weekly ration of those who received the full portion, and two-thirds of a pound from those on a two-thirds allowance. This ration was set to continue until the return of the Sirius, which was expected to take no longer than six months. However, public labor was not impacted by this reduction. With the cellar finished and ready to receive the spirits that were on board the Fishburn, they were unloaded from that ship; and she, having been cleared and released from government service, was pulled out of the water and readied for her return to England.

A gang of convicts were employed in rolling timber together, to form a bridge over the stream at the head of the cove; and such other public works as were in hand went on as usual; those employed on them in general barely exerting themselves beyond what was necessary to avoid immediate punishment for idleness.

A group of prisoners was tasked with rolling logs to build a bridge over the stream at the edge of the cove; other public projects that were underway continued as usual. The workers typically only put in enough effort to avoid getting punished for being lazy.

A warrant having about this time been granted by the governor, for the purpose of assembling a general court-martial, a defect was discovered in the marine mutiny act; and it was determined by the officers, that, as marine officers, they could not sit under any other than a warrant from the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. The marines are so far distinct from his Majesty's land forces, that while on shore in any part of his Majesty's dominions, they are regulated by an act of parliament passed expressly for their guidance; and when it was found necessary to employ a corps of marines during the late war in America, they were included in the mutiny act passed for his Majesty's forces employed in that country. This provision having been neglected on the departure of the expedition for this country, and not being discovered until the very instant when it was wanted, all that could be done was to state their situation to the governor, which they did on the 13th. and at the same time requested, 'That they might be understood to be acting only in conformity with an act of the British legislature, passed expressly for their regulation while on shore in any part of his Majesty's dominions; and that they had not in any shape been wanting in the respect that belonged to the high authority of his Majesty's commission, or to the officer invested with it in this country.'

A warrant was issued around this time by the governor to set up a general court-martial. However, a flaw was found in the marine mutiny act, and the officers decided that, as marine officers, they could only operate under a warrant from the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. The marines are separate from the King's land forces, so when they are on land anywhere in the King's dominions, they follow an act of parliament specifically made for their guidance. When it became necessary to employ a corps of marines during the recent war in America, they were included in the mutiny act for the King's forces deployed in that country. This provision was overlooked when the expedition left for this country and wasn’t discovered until it was urgently needed. All they could do was inform the governor of their situation, which they did on the 13th, and at the same time requested, 'That they might be understood to be acting only in accordance with an act of the British legislature, specifically passed for their regulation while on shore in any part of the King's dominions; and that they had not, in any manner, disrespected the high authority of the King's commission or the officer given that commission in this country.'

On the 24th a party of natives, meeting a convict who had straggled from the settlement to a fence that some people were making for the purpose of inclosing stock, threw several spears at him; but, fortunately, without doing him any injury. The governor, on being made acquainted with the circumstance, immediately went to the spot with an armed party, where some of them being heard among the bushes, they were fired at; it having now become absolutely necessary to compel them to keep at a greater distance from the settlement.

On the 24th, a group of locals encountered a convict who had wandered away from the settlement to a fence someone was building to enclose livestock. They threw a few spears at him, but luckily, he wasn’t hurt. When the governor learned about the incident, he quickly went to the area with an armed group. They heard some of the locals in the bushes and fired at them, as it had become essential to force them to stay farther away from the settlement.

CHAPTER V

Settlement of Rose Hill
The Golden Grove returns from Norfolk Island
The supply ships head back to England
Transactions
James Daley tried and executed for breaking and entering
Governor examines Botany Bay
A convict found dead in the woods
Christmas Day
A native captured and brought to the settlement
Weather
Climate
Report of deaths from the departure of the fleet from England to the
31st of December 1788

November.] The month of November commenced with the establishment of a settlement at the head of the harbour. On the 2nd, his excellency the governor went up to the Crescent, with the surveyor-general, two officers, and a small party of marines, to choose the spot, and to mark out the ground for a redoubt and other necessary buildings; and two days after a party of ten convicts, being chiefly people who understood the business of cultivation, were sent up to him, and a spot upon a rising ground, which his excellency named Rose Hill, in compliment to G. Rose Esq. one of the secretaries of the treasury, was ordered to be cleared for the first habitations. The soil at this spot was of a stiff clayey nature, free from that rock which every where covered the surface at Sydney Cove, well clothed with timber, and unobstructed by underwood.

November.] The month of November began with the establishment of a settlement at the head of the harbor. On the 2nd, the governor went up to the Crescent with the surveyor-general, two officers, and a small group of marines to select the location and mark out the site for a redoubt and other necessary buildings. Two days later, a group of ten convicts, mostly experienced in farming, was sent up to him, and a location on elevated ground, which the governor named Rose Hill in honor of G. Rose Esq., one of the treasury secretaries, was designated to be cleared for the first homes. The soil in this area was a tough clay that lacked the rocky surface found all over Sydney Cove, well-covered with trees and free from underbrush.

The party of convicts having, during the course of the month, been gradually increased, the subaltern's command was augmented by a captain with an additional number of private men; and it being found necessary that the commanding officer should be vested with civil power and authority sufficient to inflict corporal punishment on the convicts for idleness and other petty offences, the governor constituted him a justice of the peace for the county of Cumberland for that purpose.

The group of prisoners had grown over the month, so the officer in charge was given a captain and more soldiers. Since it was necessary for the commanding officer to have the civil authority to impose corporal punishment on the convicts for idleness and other minor offenses, the governor appointed him as a justice of the peace for Cumberland County for that reason.

10th. While this little settlement was establishing itself, the Golden Grove returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent five weeks and four days. It brought letters from Lieutenant King, the commandant, who wrote in very favourable terms of his young colony. His people continued healthy, having fish and vegetables in abundance; by the former of which he was enabled to save some of his salted provisions. He had also the promise of a good crop from the grain which had been last sown, and his gardens wore the most flourishing appearance.

10th. While this small settlement was getting established, the Golden Grove returned from Norfolk Island, having been gone for five weeks and four days. It brought letters from Lieutenant King, the commandant, who wrote very positively about his young colony. His people remained healthy, with plenty of fish and vegetables; this allowed him to preserve some of his salted food. He also expected a good harvest from the grain that had been recently planted, and his gardens looked very thriving.

A coconut perfectly fresh, and a piece of wood said to resemble the handle of a fly-flap as made at the Friendly Islands, together with the remains of two canoes, had been found among the rocks, perhaps blown from some island which might lie at no great distance.

A perfectly fresh coconut and a piece of wood that looked like a fly-swatter handle, made in the Friendly Islands, along with the remains of two canoes, were found among the rocks, possibly blown from an island not far away.

The Golden Grove, on her return to this port, saw a very dangerous reef, the south end of which, according to the observation of Mr. Blackburn (the master of the Supply) who commanded her for the voyage, lay in the latitude of 29 degrees 25 minutes South, and longitude 159 degrees 29 minutes East. It appeared to extend, when she was about four leagues from it, from the NE by N to N.

The Golden Grove, upon returning to this port, encountered a very dangerous reef. The southern end was observed by Mr. Blackburn, the captain of the Supply who led her on the voyage, to be at a latitude of 29 degrees 25 minutes South and a longitude of 159 degrees 29 minutes East. It seemed to stretch from the NE by N to N when she was about four leagues away from it.

The Golden Grove brought from Norfolk Island a lower yard and a top-gallant-mast for herself, and the like for the Fishburn.

The Golden Grove brought back a lower yard and a top-gallant-mast for herself from Norfolk Island, along with the same for the Fishburn.

A soldier belonging to the detachment, who was employed with some others in preparing shingles at a little distance from the settlement, was reported by his comrades, toward the latter end of last month, to be missing from the hut or tent, and parties were sent out in search of him; but returning constantly without success, he was at length given up; and a convict who was employed in assisting the party, and who had been the last person seen with him, was taken into custody; but on his examination nothing appeared that could at all affect him.

A soldier from the detachment, who was working with a few others preparing shingles not far from the settlement, was reported missing by his comrades toward the end of last month. Search parties were sent out to find him, but they kept returning empty-handed. Eventually, he was considered lost for good. A convict who had been helping the search party and was the last person seen with him was taken into custody; however, upon questioning, nothing was found that could implicate him.

Another soldier of the detachment died at the hospital of the bruises he received in fighting with one of his comrades, who was, with three others, taken into custody, and afterward tried upon a charge of murder, but found guilty of manslaughter. Instead of burning in the hand, (which would not have been in this country an adequate punishment), each was sentenced to receive two hundred lashes.

Another soldier from the unit died in the hospital from the injuries he sustained during a fight with one of his fellow soldiers, who, along with three others, was arrested and later tried for murder but convicted of manslaughter. Instead of being branded on the hand, which wouldn’t have been a suitable punishment in this country, each of them was sentenced to receive two hundred lashes.

The two storeships sailed for England on the 19th. By these ships the governor sent home dispatches, and he strongly recommended to the masters to make their passage round by the south cape of this country; but it was conjectured that they intended to go round Cape Horn, and touch at Rio de Janeiro.

The two ships set sail for England on the 19th. The governor sent dispatches back home with these ships and strongly advised the captains to take the route around the southern cape of this country; however, it was believed that they planned to go around Cape Horn and stop in Rio de Janeiro.

The small redoubt that was begun in July last being finished, a flag-staff was erected, and two pieces of iron ordnance placed in it.

The small fort that was started last July is now finished, a flagpole was put up, and two pieces of iron cannon were placed in it.

In order to prevent, if possible, the practice of thieving, which at times was very frequent, an order was given, directing that no convict, who should in future be found guilty of theft, should be supplied with any other clothing than a canvas frock and trousers. It was at the same time ordered, that such convicts as should in future fail to perform a day's labour, should receive only two thirds of the ration that was issued to those who could and did work.

To help reduce the issue of stealing, which happened quite often, a directive was issued stating that any convict found guilty of theft would only be given a canvas dress and trousers. It was also mandated that any convict who failed to work a full day would only receive two-thirds of the food rations provided to those who did work.

Unimportant as these circumstances may appear when detailed at a distance from the time when they were necessary, they yet serve to show the nature of the people by whom this colony (whatever may be its fate) was first founded; as well as the attention that was paid by those in authority, and the steps taken by them, for establishing good order and propriety among them, and for eradicating villany and idleness.

Unimportant as these circumstances may seem when looked at from a distance, they still reveal the character of the people who originally founded this colony (regardless of its future); as well as the attention given by those in power and the actions they took to create good order and propriety among them, and to eliminate wrongdoing and laziness.

December.] James Daley, the convict who in August pretended to have discovered an inexhaustible source of wealth, and was punished for his imposition, was observed from that time to neglect his labour, and to loiter about from hut to hut, while others were at work. He was at last taken up and tried for breaking into a house, and stealing all the property he could find in it; of this offence he was convicted, and suffered death; the governor not thinking him an object of mercy. Before he was turned off, he confessed that he had committed several thefts, to which he had been induced by bad connections, and pointed out two women who had received part of the property for the acquisition of which he was then about to pay so dear a price. These women were immediately apprehended, and one of them made a public example of, to deter others from offending in the like manner. The convicts being all assembled for muster, she was directed to stand forward, and, her head having been previously deprived of its natural covering, she was clothed with a canvas frock, on which was painted, in large characters, R. S. G. (receiver of stolen goods) and threatened with punishment if ever she was seen without it. This was done in the hope that shame might operate, at least with the female part of the prisoners, to the prevention of crimes; but a great number of both sexes had too long been acquainted with each other in scenes of disgrace, for this kind of punishment to work much reformation among them. This, however, must be understood to be spoken only of the lowest class of these people, among whom the commission of offences was chiefly found to exist; for there were convicts of both sexes who were never known to associate with the common herd, and whose conduct was marked by attention to their labour, and obedience to the orders they received.

December.] James Daley, the convict who in August claimed to have found a never-ending source of wealth and was penalized for his deception, was seen from that time on to ignore his work and wander from hut to hut while others toiled. Eventually, he was arrested and tried for breaking into a house and stealing everything he could find there; he was convicted of this crime and sentenced to death, as the governor didn't see him as deserving mercy. Before his execution, he confessed to committing multiple thefts, influenced by bad company, and pointed out two women who had received some of the stolen items for which he was about to pay such a steep price. These women were quickly apprehended, and one of them was made a public example to discourage others from similar offenses. When all the convicts were gathered for roll call, she was ordered to step forward, and after having her hair cut off, she was dressed in a canvas frock marked in large letters, R. S. G. (receiver of stolen goods), and was warned she would face punishment if ever seen without it. This was done with the hope that shame might at least deter the female prisoners from committing crimes; however, many of both genders had been too familiar with one another in disgraceful situations for this type of punishment to lead to much change among them. It should be noted, though, that this remark applies only to the lowest class of these individuals, among whom offenses were primarily found; there were convicts of both genders who never mingled with the common crowd and whose behavior showed diligence in their work and compliance with the orders they received.

On the 11th, the governor set off with a small party in boats, to examine the different branches of Botany Bay, and, after an excursion of five days, returned well satisfied that no part of that extensive bay was adapted to the purpose of a settlement; thus fully confirming the reports he had received from others, and the opinions he had himself formed.

On the 11th, the governor left with a small group in boats to explore the different branches of Botany Bay, and after a five-day trip, he returned feeling satisfied that no part of that large bay was suitable for a settlement; this confirmed both the reports he had heard from others and his own conclusions.

A convict having been found dead in the woods near the settlement, an enquiry into the cause of his death was made by the provost-marshal; when it appeared from the evidence of Mr. Balmain, one of the assistant-surgeons who attended to open him, and of the people who lived with the deceased, that he died through want of nourishment, and through weakness occasioned by the heat of the sun. It appeared that he had not for more than a week past eaten his allowance of provisions, the whole being found in his box. It was proved by those who knew him, that he was accustomed to deny himself even what was absolutely necessary to his existence, abstaining from his provisions, and selling them for money, which he was reserving, and had somewhere concealed, in order to purchase his passage to England when his time should expire.

A convict was found dead in the woods near the settlement, prompting the provost-marshal to investigate the cause of death. Evidence from Mr. Balmain, one of the assistant surgeons who performed the autopsy, and from the people who lived with the deceased showed that he died from malnutrition and weakness caused by the heat of the sun. It was noted that he hadn’t eaten his food allowance for over a week, with all of it found untouched in his box. Those who knew him testified that he often denied himself even the essentials for survival, choosing to skip meals and sell his rations for money, which he was saving and had hidden away to buy his passage to England when he completed his sentence.

Mr. Reid, the carpenter of the Supply, now undertook the construction of a boat-house on the east side, for the purpose of building, with the timber of this country, a launch or hoy, capable of being employed in conveying provisions to Rose Hill, and for other useful and necessary purposes. The working convicts were employed on Saturdays, until ten o'clock in the forenoon, in forming a landing-place on the east side of the cove. At the point on the west side, a magazine was marked out, to be constructed of stone, and large enough to contain fifty or sixty barrels of powder.

Mr. Reid, the carpenter of the Supply, took on the job of building a boat house on the east side to construct a launch or hoy using local timber. This boat would be used for transporting supplies to Rose Hill and for other important tasks. The working convicts were engaged on Saturdays until ten in the morning to create a landing area on the east side of the cove. On the west side, a location was designated for a magazine, which was to be made of stone and big enough to hold fifty or sixty barrels of gunpowder.

Christmas Day was observed with proper ceremony. Mr. Johnson preached a sermon adapted to the occasion, and the major part of the officers of the settlement were afterward entertained at dinner by the governor.

Christmas Day was celebrated with the right amount of festivity. Mr. Johnson delivered a sermon fitting for the occasion, and most of the settlement's officers were later treated to dinner by the governor.

It being remarked with concern, that the natives were becoming every day more troublesome and hostile, several people having been wounded, and others, who were necessarily employed in the woods, driven in and much alarmed by them, the governor determined on endeavouring to seize and bring into the settlement, one or two of those people, whose language it was become absolutely necessary to acquire, that they might learn to distinguish friends from enemies.

Noticing with concern that the locals were becoming increasingly troublesome and aggressive, with several people injured and others working in the woods forced to retreat in fear, the governor decided to try to capture one or two of those individuals. It had become essential to learn their language so that they could tell friends from foes.

Accordingly, on the 30th a young man was seized and brought up by Lieutenant Ball of the Supply, and Lieutenant George Johnston of the marines. A second was taken; but, after dragging into the water beyond his depth the man who seized him, he got clear off. The native who was secured was immediately on his landing led up to the governor's, where he was clothed, a slight iron or manacle put upon his wrist, and a trusty convict appointed to take care of him. A small hut had been previously built for his reception close to the guardhouse, wherein he and his keeper were locked up at night; and the following morning the convict reported, that he slept very well during the night, not offering to make any attempt to get away.

Accordingly, on the 30th, a young man was captured and brought in by Lieutenant Ball of the Supply and Lieutenant George Johnston of the marines. A second individual was taken; however, after dragging the man who grabbed him into the water where he couldn’t stand, he managed to escape. The native who was captured was immediately taken to the governor's place, where he was given clothes, a light iron cuff placed on his wrist, and a reliable convict assigned to look after him. A small hut had already been built for him near the guardhouse, where he and his keeper were locked up at night; the next morning, the convict reported that he slept very well throughout the night, making no attempt to escape.

The weather, during the month of December, was for the first part hot and close; the middle was fine; the latter variable, but mostly fine--upon the whole the month was very hot. The climate was allowed by every one, medical as well as others, to be fine and salubrious. The rains were heavy, and appeared to fall chiefly on or about the full and change of the moon. Thunder and lightning at times had been severe, but not attended with any bad effects since the month of February last.

The weather in December was hot and humid at first, pleasant in the middle, and variable but mostly nice toward the end—overall, it was a very hot month. Everyone, including medical professionals, agreed that the climate was nice and healthy. The rains were heavy and mostly occurred around the full and new moons. Thunder and lightning had been intense at times, but there hadn’t been any negative effects since February.

The following report of the casualties which had happened from the day of our leaving England to the 31st of December 1788, was given in at this time, viz.

The following report of the casualties that occurred from the day we left England until December 31, 1788, was submitted at this time, namely:

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Casualties from May 13, 1787,      Garrison         Convicts
to December 31, 1788            Man Woman Child  Man Woman Child Total
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Died on the passage, from May 13,
1787, to Januarv 26, 1788,       1   1     1     20   4     9     36
Died between January 26, 1788,
and January 1, 1789,             5   0     1     28  13     9     56
Killed by the natives in the above
time,                            0   0     0      4   0     0      4
Executed in the above time,      0   0     0      5   0     0      5
Missing in the above time,       1   0     0     12   1     0     14
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                            7   1     2     69  18     18   115
---------------------------------------------------------------------

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Casualties from May 13, 1787,      Garrison         Convicts
to December 31, 1788            Man Woman Child  Man Woman Child Total
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Died on the journey, from May 13,
1787, to January 26, 1788,       1   1     1     20   4     9     36
Died between January 26, 1788,
and January 1, 1789,             5   0     1     28  13     9     56
Killed by the locals during this
time,                            0   0     0      4   0     0      4
Executed during this time,      0   0     0      5   0     0      5
Missing during this time,       1   0     0     12   1     0     14
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                            7   1     2     69  18     18   115
---------------------------------------------------------------------

CHAPTER VI

New Year's Day
Prisoners, how they are occupied
Their tendency toward laziness and wrongdoing
Celebration of Her Majesty's birthday
Indigenous people
Captain Shea passes away
Rules regarding the prisoners
Examples of their misbehavior
Activities
The Supply leaves for Norfolk Island
Public Works
Indigenous people
Prisoners killed
Supplies stolen
The Supply comes back
Rebellion planned at Norfolk Island
Storm there
Activities at Rose Hill

1789.]

1789.

January.] The first day of the new year was marked as a holiday by a suspension of all kinds of labour, and by hoisting the colours at the fort. The ration of provisions, though still less by a pound of flour than the proper allowance, was yet so sufficient as not to be complained of, nor was labour diminished by it. Upon a calculation of the different people employed for the public in cultivation, it appeared, that of all the numbers in the colony there were only two hundred and fifty so employed--a very small number indeed to procure the means of rendering the colony independent of the mother-country for the necessaries of life. The rest were occupied in carrying on various public works, such as stores, houses, wharfs, etc. A large number were incapable, through age or infirmities, of being called out to labour in the public grounds; and the civil establishment, the military, females, and children, filled up the catalogue of those unassisting in cultivation.

January.] The first day of the new year was celebrated as a holiday, with a break from all kinds of labor and the flag raised at the fort. The food rations, although still a pound of flour short of the usual allowance, were sufficient enough not to draw complaints, and did not reduce productivity. A look at the various people working for the public in farming revealed that only two hundred and fifty out of the entire colony were engaged in this, a surprisingly small number to make the colony self-sufficient for basic needs. The rest were busy with different public projects like stores, houses, wharfs, etc. Many were unable to work due to age or health issues, while the civil service, military, women, and children comprised those not part of the farming efforts.

The soil immediately about the settlement was found to be of too sandy a nature to give much promise of yielding a sufficient produce even for the small quantity of stock it possessed. At Rose Hill the prospect was better; indeed whatever expectations could be formed of successful cultivation in this country rested as yet in that quarter. But the convicts by no means exerted themselves to the utmost; they foolishly conceived, that they had no interest in the success of their labour; and, if left to themselves, would at any time rather have lived in idleness, and depended upon the public stores for their daily support so long as they had any thing in them, than have contributed, by the labour of their hands, to secure themselves whereon to exist when those stores should be exhausted.

The soil around the settlement was too sandy to promise a good harvest, even for the small number of animals it had. At Rose Hill, the outlook was better; in fact, any hopes for successful farming in this region depended on that area. However, the convicts didn't really put in their best effort; they naively thought that the success of their work didn't concern them. Left to their own devices, they would have preferred to live in laziness and rely on the public supplies for their daily needs as long as there was anything available, rather than work with their hands to secure a future for themselves once those supplies ran out.

Idleness, however, was not the only vice to be complained of in these people. Thefts were frequent among them; and one fellow, who, after committing a robbery ran into the woods, and from thence coming at night into the settlement committed several depredations upon individuals, and one upon the public stores, was at length taken and executed, in the hope of holding out an example to others. His thefts had been so frequent and daring, that it became necessary to offer a reward of one pound of flour to be given weekly, in addition to the ration then issued, for his apprehension. Another convict, named Ruglass, was tried for stabbing Ann Fowles, a woman with whom he cohabited, and sentenced to receive seven hundred lashes, half of which were inflicted on him while the other unhappy wretch was suffering the execution of his sentence.

Idleness wasn’t the only complaint about these people. Theft was common among them; one guy, who ran into the woods after stealing, would come back at night to the settlement and rob several individuals, as well as the public stores. He was eventually caught and executed to set an example for others. His thefts were so frequent and bold that a reward of one pound of flour was offered weekly, in addition to the standard ration, for anyone who could capture him. Another convict, named Ruglass, was put on trial for stabbing Ann Fowles, a woman he lived with, and was sentenced to receive seven hundred lashes. Half of that punishment was carried out while the other unfortunate man was being executed.

The 19th was observed as the birthday of her Majesty; the colours were displayed at sunrise; at noon the detachment of marines fired three rounds; after which the governor received the compliments of the day; and at one o'clock the Supply, the only vessel in the country, fired twenty-one guns. The governor entertained the officers at dinner, and the day concluded with a bonfire, for which the country afforded abundant materials.

The 19th was celebrated as the birthday of her Majesty; the colors were raised at sunrise; at noon, the marines fired three rounds; after which the governor accepted the day's greetings; and at one o'clock, the Supply, the only ship in the area, fired twenty-one guns. The governor hosted the officers for dinner, and the day wrapped up with a bonfire, for which there were plenty of materials available in the country.

A day or two after this the place was agitated by a report that a great gun had been fired at sea; but on sending a boat down without the harbour's mouth, nothing was seen there that could confirm a report which every one anxiously wished might be true.

A day or two later, the area was stirred up by a rumor that a large cannon had been fired at sea; however, when a boat was sent out past the harbor entrance, nothing was spotted that could verify a story everyone eagerly hoped was true.

A boat having been sent down the harbour with some people to cut rushes, a party of natives came to the beach while they were so employed, and took three of their jackets out of the boat. On discovering this theft, the cockswain pursued a canoe with two men in it as far as a small island that lay just by, where the natives landed, leaving the canoe at the rocks. This the cockswain took away, contrary to an order, which had been made very public, on no account to touch a canoe, or any thing belonging to a native, and towed it to the bay where they had been cutting rushes. The natives returned to the same place unobserved, and, while the cockswain and his people were collecting what rushes they had cut, threw a spear at the cockswain, which wounded him in the arm, notwithstanding they must have known that at that time we had one of their people in our possession, on whom the injury might be retaliated. He, poor fellow, did not seem to expect any such treatment from us, and began to seem reconciled to his situation. He was taken down the harbour once or twice, to let his friends see that he was alive, and had some intercourse with them which appeared to give him much satisfaction.

A boat was sent to the harbor with some people to gather rushes when a group of locals came to the beach and took three jackets from the boat. When they discovered the theft, the coxswain chased a canoe with two men in it to a small nearby island, where the locals landed and left the canoe by the rocks. The coxswain took the canoe, going against a well-known order not to touch any canoes or belongings of the locals, and towed it back to the bay where they had been cutting rushes. The locals returned to the same spot unnoticed and, while the coxswain and his crew were collecting their cut rushes, threw a spear at the coxswain, injuring his arm, even though they must have known we had one of their people with us, who could have been harmed in return. The poor guy didn’t seem to expect this treatment from us and appeared to be accepting his situation. He was taken down to the harbor once or twice to show his friends that he was alive, and he had some interaction with them that seemed to make him very happy.

For fifteen days of this month the thermometer rose in the shade above eighty degrees. Once on the 8th, at one in the afternoon, it stood at 105 degrees in the shade.

For fifteen days this month, the temperature in the shade went above eighty degrees. Once, on the 8th at 1 PM, it reached 105 degrees in the shade.

February 2nd.] Captain John Shea, of the marines, who had been for a considerable time in a declining state of health, died, and was interred with military honours the day following; the governor and every officer of the settlement attending his funeral. The major commandant of the detachment shortly after filled up the vacancy which this officer's death had occasioned by appointing Captain Lieutenant Meredith to the company; and First Lieutenant George Johnston succeeded to the captain-lieutenancy. Second Lieutenant Ralph Clarke was appointed a First, and volunteer John Ross a Second Lieutenant; but their commissions were still to receive the confirmation of the lords commissioners of the Admiralty.

February 2nd.] Captain John Shea, of the marines, who had been in poor health for quite a while, passed away and was buried with military honors the next day; the governor and every officer in the settlement attended his funeral. The major in charge of the detachment soon filled the vacancy left by this officer's death by appointing Captain Lieutenant Meredith to the company; First Lieutenant George Johnston stepped up to the captain-lieutenancy. Second Lieutenant Ralph Clarke was promoted to First, and volunteer John Ross became a Second Lieutenant; however, their commissions still needed to be confirmed by the lords commissioners of the Admiralty.

The convicts being found to continue the practice of selling their clothing, an order was issued, directing, that if in future a convict should give information to the provost-marshal against any person to whom he had sold his clothes, the seller should receive them again, be permitted to keep whatever was paid him for them, and receive no punishment himself for the sale. It was also found necessary to direct, that all stragglers at night who, on being challenged by the patrole, should run from them, should be fired at; but orders, in general, were observed to have very little effect, and to be attended to only while the impression made by hearing them published remained upon the mind; for the convicts had not been accustomed to live in situations where their conduct was to be regulated by written orders. There was here no other mode of communicating to them such directions as it was found necessary to issue for their observance; and it was very common to have them plead in excuse for a breach of any regulation of the settlement, that they had never before heard of it; nor had they any idea of the permanency of an order, many of them seeming to think it issued merely for the purpose of the moment.

The convicts continued to sell their clothing, so an order was issued stating that if a convict informed the provost-marshal about someone they sold their clothes to, the seller would get their clothes back, be allowed to keep whatever money they received for them, and face no punishment for the sale. It was also necessary to state that any stragglers at night who ran from the patrol when challenged should be shot at; however, orders generally had very little effect and were only followed while the immediate impact of hearing them announced lingered in their minds. The convicts weren’t used to living in environments where their behavior was governed by written orders. There was no other way to communicate these necessary directions for them to follow, and it was quite common for them to claim ignorance when they breached any regulations of the settlement, saying they had never heard of that rule before. They also had no concept of the permanence of an order, with many believing it was issued just for the moment.

It was much to be regretted, that there existed a necessity for placing a confidence in these people, as in too many instances the trust was found to be abused: but unfortunately, to fill many of those offices to which free people alone should have been appointed in this colony, there were none but convicts. From these it will be readily supposed the best characters were selected, those who had merited by the propriety of their conduct the good report of the officers on board the ships in which they were embarked, and who had brought with them into those ships a better name than their fellows from the prisons in which they had been confined. Those also who were qualified to instruct and direct others in the exercise of professions in which they had superior knowledge and experience, were appointed to act as overseers, with gangs under their direction; and many had given evident proofs or strong indications of returning dispositions to honest industry.

It was unfortunate that there was a need to trust these people, as in too many cases that trust was abused. Sadly, to fill many of the positions that should have been appointed to free individuals in this colony, there were only convicts available. It's easy to assume that the best individuals were chosen from among them, those who had earned a positive reputation from the ship officers due to their appropriate behavior, and who had a better reputation than their peers from the prisons where they had been held. Those who were capable of teaching and guiding others in their fields of expertise were appointed as overseers, managing teams under their supervision; many had shown clear signs of a willingness to work honestly.

There were others, however, who had no claim to this praise. Among these must be particularised William Bryant, to whom, from his having been bred from his youth to the business of a fisherman in the western part of England, was given the direction and management of such boats as were employed in fishing, every encouragement was held out to this man to keep him above temptation; an hut was built for him and his family; he was always presented with a certain part of the fish which he caught; and he wanted for nothing that was necessary, or that was suitable to a person of his description and situation. But he was detected in secreting and selling large quantities of fish; and when the necessary enquiry was made, this practice appeared to have been of some standing with him. For this offence he was severely punished, and removed from the hut in which he had been placed; yet as, notwithstanding his villainy, he was too useful a person to part with and send to a brick cart, he was still retained to fish for the settlement; but a very vigilant eye was kept over him, and such steps taken as appeared likely to prevent him from repeating his offence, if the sense of shame and fear of punishment were not of themselves sufficient to deter him.

There were others, however, who did not deserve this praise. Among them, William Bryant stands out. Having grown up as a fisherman in western England, he was put in charge of the boats used for fishing. He was given all sorts of support to keep him from temptation: a hut was built for him and his family, he received a portion of the fish he caught, and he lacked nothing necessary or suitable for someone in his position. However, he was caught hiding and selling large quantities of fish, and upon investigation, it turned out this had been going on for a while. For this offense, he faced harsh punishment and was removed from the hut he had been given. Still, since he was too valuable to lose entirely and send off in a cart, he was kept on to fish for the settlement. But now, there was close scrutiny over him, and measures were taken to prevent him from committing the same crime again, assuming that the shame and fear of punishment alone might not be enough to deter him.

A person of the name of Smith having procured a passage from England in the Lady Penrhyn, with a design to proceed to India in the event of his not finding any employment in this country, on his offering his services, and professing to have some agricultural knowledge was received into the colony, and, being judged a discreet prudent man, was placed about the provision store under the assistant to the commissary at Rose Hill, and was moreover sworn in as a peace-officer, to act as such immediately under the provost-marshal; a line wherein, from the circumstance of his being a free man, it was supposed he might render essential aid to the civil department of the colony. It was farther intended, at a future period, to place some people under his direction, to give him an opportunity of exercising the abilities he was said to possess as a practical farmer.

A man named Smith secured a passage from England on the Lady Penrhyn, intending to go to India if he couldn't find work here. After offering his services and claiming to have some agricultural knowledge, he was accepted into the colony. Considered a sensible and cautious individual, he was assigned to the provision store under the assistant commissary at Rose Hill and was also sworn in as a peace officer, serving directly under the provost-marshal. Being a free man, it was believed he could provide significant support to the civil side of the colony. It was also planned to assign some people to work under his supervision in the future, allowing him to showcase his abilities as a practical farmer.

14th.] The magazine at the Point being now completed, the powder belonging to the settlement was lodged safely within its walls.

14th.] The magazine at the Point is now finished, and the powder belonging to the settlement has been securely stored inside its walls.

It being of importance to the colony to ascertain the precise situation and extent of the reefs seen by Mr. Blackburn, in the Golden Grove storeship, in November last, Leiutenant Ball (who was proceeding to Norfolk Island with provisions and convicts) was directed to perform that duty on his return. He sailed with the vessel under his command on the 17th, having on board twenty-one male and six female convicts, and three children; of the latter two were to be placed under Mr. King's care as children of the public. They were of different sexes; the boy, Edward Parkinson, who was about three years of age, had lost his mother on the passage to this country, the girl, who was a year older, had a mother in the colony; but as she was a woman of abandoned character*, the child was taken from her to save it from the ruin which would otherwise have been its inevitable lot. These children were to be instructed in reading and writing, and in husbandry. The commandant of the island was directed to cause five acres of ground to be allotted and cultivated for their benefit, by such person as he should think fit to entrust with the charge of bringing them up according to the spirit of this intention, in promoting the success of which every friend of humanity seemed to feel an interest.

It was important for the colony to determine the exact location and size of the reefs observed by Mr. Blackburn on the Golden Grove storeship last November. Lieutenant Ball, who was headed to Norfolk Island with supplies and convicts, was assigned to carry out that task on his return. He set sail with his ship on the 17th, carrying twenty-one male and six female convicts, along with three children; two of whom were to be placed under Mr. King's care as public wards. They were of different genders; the boy, Edward Parkinson, about three years old, had lost his mother during the journey to this country, while the girl, who was a year older, had a mother in the colony. However, since her mother was of questionable morals, the child was removed from her care to protect her from a certain downward path. These children were to be educated in reading, writing, and farming. The island's commandant was instructed to allocate and cultivate five acres of land for their benefit, managed by someone he deemed suitable to raise them in the spirit of this initiative, which every supporter of humanity seemed to care about.

[* The same who was wounded by Ruglass, earlier this chapter]

[* The same person who was injured by Ruglass earlier in this chapter]

The cove was now, for the first time, left without a ship; a circumstance not only striking by its novelty, but which forcibly drew our attention to the peculiarity of our situation. The Sirius was gone upon a long voyage to a distant country for supplies, the arrival of which were assuredly precarious. The Supply had left us, to look after a dangerous reef; which service, in an unknown sea, might draw upon herself the calamity which she was seeking to instruct others to avoid. Should it have been decreed, that the arm of misfortune was to fall with such weight upon us, as to render at any time the salvation of this little vessel necessary to the salvation of the colony, how deeply was every one concerned in her welfare! Reflection on the bare possibility of its miscarriage made every mind anxious during her absence from the settlement.

The cove was now, for the first time, left without a ship; a situation that was not only striking because it was new but also made us acutely aware of how unusual our circumstances were. The Sirius had set off on a long journey to a distant land for supplies, whose arrival was definitely uncertain. The Supply had left us to check on a dangerous reef; this task, in an unfamiliar sea, could bring disaster to herself while trying to help others avoid it. If it was destined that misfortune would hit us so heavily that saving this little vessel became critical for the survival of the colony, how concerned everyone was for her safety! Just thinking about the possibility of something going wrong made everyone anxious during her time away from the settlement.

From the evident necessity that existed of maintaining a strict discipline among the military employed in this country, it became a requisite to punish with some severity any flagrant breach of military subordination that might occur. Joseph Hunt, a soldier in the detachment, having been found absent from his post when stationed as a sentinel, was tried by a court-martial, and sentenced to receive seven hundred lashes; which sentence was put in execution upon him at two periods, with an interval of three weeks.

From the clear need to keep strict discipline among the military in this country, it was necessary to punish any serious violation of military order that occurred. Joseph Hunt, a soldier in the unit, was found absent from his post while serving as a sentinel. He was tried by a court-martial and sentenced to receive seven hundred lashes; this sentence was carried out in two parts, with a three-week interval between them.

Toward the end of this month the detachment took possession of their barracks; two of which, having been nearly twelve months in hand, were now completed, and ready for their reception. A brick house, forty feet by thirteen, was begun on the east side for the commissary; and materials were preparing for a guard-house.

Toward the end of this month, the unit moved into their barracks; two of which, having been in progress for nearly twelve months, were now finished and ready for them. A brick house, forty feet by thirteen, was started on the east side for the supply officer, and materials were being gathered for a guardhouse.

At Rose Hill the people were principally employed in clearing and cultivating land; but the labour of removing the timber off the ground when cut down very much retarded the best efforts of the people so employed. The military and convicts still lived under tents; and, as a proof of the small space which they occupied, two Emus or Cassowaries, who must have been feeding in the neighbourhood, ran through the little camp, and were so intermingled with the people, who ran out of their tents at so strange an appearance, that it became dangerous to fire at them; and they got clear off, though literally surrounded by a multitude of people, and under the very muzzles of some of their muskets.

At Rose Hill, people mainly worked on clearing and farming the land, but removing the cut timber really slowed down their efforts. The military and convicts were still living in tents, and to show how small the area was, two emus or cassowaries, probably feeding nearby, ran through the little camp. They got mixed up with the people who rushed out of their tents at the strange sight, making it too dangerous to shoot at them. They managed to escape even though they were literally surrounded by a crowd and right under the muzzles of some muskets.

Very little molestation was at this time given by the natives; and had they never been ill treated by our people, instead of hostility, it is more than probable that an intercourse of friendship would have subsisted.

Very little harassment was occurring at this time from the locals; and if they had never been mistreated by our people, instead of hostility, it’s likely that a friendship would have developed.

March.] The impracticability of keeping the convicts within the limits prescribed for them became every day more evident. Almost every month since our arrival had produced one or more accidents, occasioned principally by a non-compliance with the orders which had been given solely with a view to their security; and which, with thinking beings, would have been of sufficient force as examples to deter others from running into the same danger. But neither orders nor dangers seemed to be at all regarded where their own temporary convenience prompted them to disobey the one, or run the risk of incurring the other. A convict belonging to the brick-maker's gang had strayed into the woods for the purpose of collecting sweet tea; an herb so called by the convicts, and which was in great estimation among them. The leaves of it being boiled, they obtained a beverage not unlike liquorice in taste, and which was recommended by some of the medical gentlemen here, as a powerful tonic. It was discovered soon after our arrival, and was then found close to the settlement; but the great consumption had not rendered it scarce. It was supposed, that the convict in his search after this article had fallen in with a party of natives, who had killed him. A few days after this accident, a party of the convicts, sixteen in number, chiefly belonging to the brick-maker's gang, quitted the place of their employment, and, providing themselves with stakes, set off toward Botany Bay, with a determination to revenge, upon whatever natives they should meet, the treatment which one of their brethren had received at the close of the last month. Near Botany Bay they fell in with the natives, but in a larger body than they expected or desired. According to their report, they were fifty in number; but much dependance was not placed on what they said in this respect, nor in their narrative of the affair; it was certain, however, that they were driven in by the natives, who killed one man and wounded six others. Immediately on this being known in the settlement, an armed party was sent out with an officer, who found the body of the man that had been killed, stripped, and lying in the path to Botany Bay. They also found a boy, who had likewise been stripped and left for dead by the natives. He was very much wounded, and his left ear nearly cut off. The party, after burying the body of the man, returned with the wounded boy, but without seeing any of the perpetrators of this mischief; the other wounded people had reached the settlement, and were taken to the hospital. The day following, the governor, judging it highly necessary to make examples of these misguided people, who had so daringly and flagrantly broken through every order which had been given to prevent their interfering with the natives as to form a party expressly to meet with and attack them, directed that those who were not wounded should receive each one hundred and fifty lashes, and wear a fetter for a twelvemonth; the like punishment was directed to be inflicted upon those who were in the hospital, as soon as they should recover from their wounds; in pursuance of which order, seven of them were tied up in front of the provision store, and punished (for example's sake) in the presence of all the convicts.

March.] It became increasingly clear that it was impractical to keep the convicts within the limits set for them. Almost every month since our arrival had resulted in one or more incidents, mainly due to the failure to follow the orders given for their safety; orders that, had they been followed by sensible individuals, would have been strong enough to discourage others from getting into the same trouble. However, neither the orders nor the dangers seemed to matter much when their short-term convenience encouraged them to ignore the rules or take risks. One convict from the brickmaker's crew wandered into the woods to collect sweet tea, an herb highly valued among the convicts. When boiled, its leaves produced a drink with a flavor similar to licorice, recommended by some medical professionals here as a strong tonic. It was discovered shortly after our arrival and was found close to the settlement; despite heavy usage, it had not become scarce. It was believed that the convict looking for this herb had encountered a group of natives who killed him. A few days later, a group of sixteen convicts, mostly from the brickmaker's crew, left their work, armed with stakes, and headed toward Botany Bay, determined to take revenge on any natives they met for what had happened to one of their fellow convicts at the end of the last month. Near Botany Bay, they encountered natives, but in greater numbers than they expected or wanted. According to their reports, the natives were fifty strong; however, little trust was placed in their claims, nor in their account of what happened. It was clear that they were driven back by the natives, who killed one man and injured six others. Once this was reported back to the settlement, an armed group was dispatched with an officer, who found the body of the killed man, stripped and lying on the path to Botany Bay. They also found a boy who had been stripped and left for dead by the natives. He was severely wounded, with his left ear nearly severed. The group buried the man's body and returned with the injured boy, but didn’t see any of those responsible for the attack; the other wounded convicts made it back to the settlement and were taken to the hospital. The following day, the governor decided it was essential to set an example of these misguided individuals who had so brazenly flouted all orders aimed at preventing their interference with the natives by deliberately forming a group to confront and attack them. He ordered that those who were not injured receive one hundred and fifty lashes each and wear a fetter for a year; the same punishment was to be imposed on those in the hospital once they healed. Following this order, seven of them were tied up in front of the provision store and punished (for the sake of example) in view of all the convicts.

The same day two armed parties were sent, one toward Botany Bay, and the other in a different direction, that the natives might see that their late act of violence would neither intimidate nor prevent us from moving beyond the settlement whenever occasion required.

The same day, two armed groups were sent out—one towards Botany Bay and the other in a different direction—so the locals could see that their recent act of violence wouldn't scare us off or stop us from moving beyond the settlement whenever necessary.

Such were our enemies abroad: at home, within ourselves, we had enemies to encounter of a different nature, but in their effects more difficult to guard against. The gardens and houses of individuals, and the provision store, were overrun with rats. The safety of the provisions was an object of general consequence, and the commissary was for some time employed in examining into the state of the store. One morning, on going early to the store, he found the wards of a key which had been broken in the padlock that secured the principal door, and which it was the duty of the patrols to visit and inspect every night. Entering the storehouse, he perceived that an harness-cask had been opened and some provisions taken out. It being supposed that the wards of the key might lead to a discovery of the perpetrator of this atrocious act, they were sent to a convict blacksmith, an ingenious workman through whose hands most of the work passed that was done in his line, who immediately knew them to belong to a soldier of the name of Hunt, the same who in the course of the preceding month received seven hundred lashes, and who had some time back brought the key to this blacksmith to be altered. On this information, Hunt was taken up; but offering to give some material information, he was admitted an evidence on the part of the crown, and made an ample confession before the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate, in which he accused six other soldiers of having been concerned with him in the diabolical practice of robbing the store for a considerable time past of liquor and provisions in large quantities. This crime, great enough of itself, was still aggravated by the manner in which it was committed. Having formed their party, seven in number, and sworn each other to secrecy and fidelity, they procured and altered keys to fit the different locks on the three doors of the provision store; and it was agreed, that whenever any one of the seven should be posted there as sentinel during the night, two or more of the gang, as they found it convenient, were to come during the hours in which they knew their associate would have the store under his charge, when, by means of their keys, and sheltered in the security which he afforded them (by betraying in so flagrant a manner the trust and confidence reposed in him as a sentinel), they should open a passage into the store, where they should remain shut up until they had procured as much liquor or provisions as they could take off. If the patrols visited the store while they chanced to be within its walls, the door was found locked and secure, the sentinel alert and vigilant on his post, and the store apparently safe.

Such were our enemies abroad: at home, within ourselves, we faced different challenges, but these were harder to guard against. The gardens and homes of individuals, as well as the supply store, were swarming with rats. The safety of the supplies was a major concern, and the commissary was busy for a while checking the state of the store. One morning, when he arrived early at the store, he found the parts of a key that had broken off in the padlock securing the main door, which it was the patrols' job to check every night. Upon entering the storehouse, he noticed that a barrel for harnesses had been opened and some supplies were missing. It was believed that the broken key pieces might help identify the person responsible for this terrible act, so they were sent to a convict blacksmith, a skilled worker who handled most of the work in his trade. He quickly recognized the pieces belonged to a soldier named Hunt, who had recently received seven hundred lashes and had previously brought the key to him to be modified. Based on this information, Hunt was arrested; however, he offered to provide useful information, so he was allowed to testify for the prosecution and made a detailed confession before the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate, in which he implicated six other soldiers who had been involved with him in the serious crime of stealing liquor and supplies from the store for quite some time. This crime, serious enough on its own, was made worse by how it was carried out. Having formed a group of seven and sworn each other to secrecy and loyalty, they obtained and modified keys to fit the various locks on the three doors of the supply store. They agreed that whenever one of the seven was on duty as a guard at night, two or more members of the group would come during the time their friend was in charge. Using their keys and shielded by the false trust he placed in them (by so blatantly betraying the trust given to him as a guard), they would open a way into the store, where they would stay hidden until they had taken as much liquor or supplies as they could carry. If the patrols inspected the store while they were inside, everything appeared secure: the door was locked and safe, the guard alert and vigilant at his post, and the store seemingly secure.

Fortunately for the settlement, on the night preceding the discovery one of the party intended to have availed himself of his situation as sentinel, and to enter the store alone, purposing to plunder without the participation of his associates. But while he was standing with the key in the lock, he heard the patrol advancing. The key had done its office, but as he knew that the lock would be examined by the corporal, in his fright and haste to turn it back again, he mistook the way, and, finding that he could not get the key out of the lock, he broke it, and was compelled to leave the wards in it; the other part of the key he threw away.

Fortunately for the settlement, on the night before the discovery, one of the group planned to take advantage of his role as a guard and sneak into the store alone, intending to steal without involving his companions. But while he was standing there with the key in the lock, he heard the patrol approaching. The key had served its purpose, but knowing that the corporal would check the lock, he panicked and, in his rush to turn it back, went the wrong way. Realizing he couldn't get the key out of the lock, he broke it and had to leave the pieces inside; he tossed away the other half of the key.

On this information, the six soldiers whom he accused were taken up and tried; when, the evidence of the accomplice being confirmed by several strong corroborating circumstances, among which it appeared that the store had been broken into and robbed by them at various times for upwards of eight months, they were unanimously found guilty, and sentenced to suffer that death which they owned they justly merited. Their defence wholly consisted in accusing the accomplice of having been the first to propose and carry the plan into execution, and afterwards the first to accuse and ruin the people he had influenced to associate with him. A crime of such magnitude called for a severe example; and the sentence was carried into execution a few days after their trial.

Based on this information, the six soldiers he accused were arrested and put on trial. The accomplice's testimony was backed by several strong pieces of evidence, including that the store had been broken into and robbed by them multiple times over the course of more than eight months. They were found guilty without dissent and sentenced to the death they admitted they deserved. Their entire defense was focused on blaming the accomplice for being the one who initially suggested and executed the plan, and then the first to accuse and betray the people he had persuaded to join him. Given the seriousness of the crime, a harsh example was necessary; the sentence was carried out a few days after their trial.

Some of these unhappy men were held in high estimation by their officers, but the others, together with the accomplice Hunt, had been long verging toward this melancholy end. Four of them had been tried for the death of their comrade Bulmore, which happened in a contest with one of them in November last; and their manner of conducting themselves at various times appeared to have been very reprehensible. The liquor which they procured from the store was the cause of drunkenness, which brought on affrays and disorders, for which, as soldiers, they were more than once punished. To these circumstances must be added (what perhaps must be considered as the root of these evils) a connexion which subsisted between them and some of the worst of the female convicts, at whose huts, notwithstanding the internal regulations of their quarters, they found means to enjoy their ill-acquired plunder.

Some of these unhappy men were highly regarded by their officers, but the others, along with their accomplice Hunt, had long been heading toward this tragic end. Four of them were tried for the death of their comrade Bulmore, which occurred during a fight with one of them last November; their behavior at various times seemed very blameworthy. The alcohol they obtained from the store was the cause of their drunkenness, which led to fights and disturbances, for which they were punished more than once as soldiers. Additionally, there's the issue (which could be seen as the root of these problems) of a connection they had with some of the most notorious female convicts, at whose huts, despite the internal regulations of their quarters, they managed to enjoy their ill-gotten gains.

On the morning of their execution, one of them declared to the clergyman who attended him, that the like practices had been carried on at the store at Rose Hill by similar means and with similar success. He named two soldiers and a convict as the persons concerned; these were afterwards apprehended, and underwent an examination of several hours by the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate, during which nothing being drawn from either that could affect the others, they were all discharged. It was, however, generally believed, that the soldier would not in his dying moments have falsely accused three men of a crime which they had never committed; and that nothing but their constancy to each other had prevented a discovery of their guilt.

On the morning of their execution, one of them told the clergyman who was with him that similar activities had taken place at the store in Rose Hill using the same methods and achieving the same results. He named two soldiers and a convict as those involved; they were later arrested and were subjected to several hours of questioning by the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate. Since nothing came out of the questioning that could incriminate the others, they were all released. However, it was widely believed that the soldier wouldn’t have falsely accused three men of a crime they didn’t commit in his last moments; and that it was only their loyalty to each other that kept the truth about their guilt from being uncovered.

While these transactions were passing at Sydney, the little colony at Norfolk Island had been threatened with an insurrection. The Supply returned from thence the 24th, after an absence of five weeks, and brought from Lieutenant King, the commandant, information of the following chimerical scheme. The capture of the island, and the subsequent escape of the captors, was to commence by the seizure of Mr. King's person, which was intended to be effected on the first Saturday after the arrival of any ship in the bay, except the Sirius. They had chosen that particular day in the week, as it had been for some time Mr. King's custom on Saturdays to go to a farm which he had established at some little distance from the settlement, and the military generally chose that day to bring in the cabbage palm from the woods. Mr. King was to be secured in his way to his farm. A message, in the commandant's name, was then to be sent to Mr. Jamison, the surgeon, who was to be seized as soon as he got into the woods; and the sergeant and the party were to be treated in the same manner. These being all properly taken care of, a signal was to be made to the ship in the bay to send her boat on shore, the crew of which were to be made prisoners on their landing; and two or three of the insurgents were to go off in a boat belonging to the island, and inform the commanding officer that the ship's boat had been stove on the beach, and that the commandant requested another might be sent ashore; this also was to be captured: and then, as the last act of this absurd scheme, the ship was to be taken, with which they were to proceed to Otaheite, and there establish a settlement. They charitably intended to leave some provisions for the commandant and his officers, and for such of the people as did not accompany them in their escape--this was their scheme. Not one difficulty in the execution of it ever occurred to their imagination: all was to happen with as much facility as it was planned; and, had it not been fortunately revealed to a seaman belonging to the Sirius, who lived with Mr. King as a gardener, by a female convict who cohabited with him, there was no doubt but that all these improbabilities would have been attempted.

While these events were unfolding in Sydney, the small colony at Norfolk Island was facing a potential uprising. The Supply returned on the 24th, after being away for five weeks, and brought back news from Lieutenant King, the commandant, about a rather outlandish plan. The plot to capture the island and escape afterward was set to begin with the abduction of Mr. King. This was supposed to happen on the first Saturday after any ship, except the Sirius, arrived in the bay. They chose that specific day because Mr. King regularly visited a farm he had set up a bit away from the settlement on Saturdays, and the military typically used that day to gather cabbage palm from the woods. Mr. King was to be captured while traveling to his farm. Once secured, a message in the commandant's name would be sent to Mr. Jamison, the surgeon, who was to be taken as soon as he entered the woods; the same fate awaited the sergeant and his men. Once these individuals were properly dealt with, a signal would be sent to the ship in the bay to send its boat to shore, where the crew would be taken prisoner upon arrival. A couple of insurgents would then take a boat from the island to inform the commanding officer that the ship's boat had been damaged on the beach and that the commandant requested a replacement to be sent ashore; this new boat would also be captured. As the final ridiculous act of this scheme, they planned to seize the ship and sail to Otaheite to establish a settlement there. They even intended to leave behind some provisions for the commandant, his officers, and anyone who chose not to join in their escape—this was their plan. They seemed to have thought of no challenges in carrying it out; everything was supposed to unfold as smoothly as it was conceived. Had it not been fortunately revealed to a sailor from the Sirius, who worked as a gardener for Mr. King, by a female convict living with him, there’s no doubt these unlikely events would have been attempted.

On being made acquainted with these circumstances, the commandant took such measures as appeared to him necessary to defeat them; and several who were concerned in the scheme confessed the share which they were to have had in the execution of it. Mr. King had hitherto, from the peculiarity of his situation--secluded from society, and confined to a small speck in the vast ocean, with but a handful of people--drawn them round him, and treated them with the kind attentions which a good family meets with at the hands of a humane master; but he now saw them in their true colours, and one of his first steps, when peace was restored, was to clear the ground as far as possible round the settlement, that future villainy might not find a shelter in the woods for its transactions. To this truly providential circumstance, perhaps, many of the colonists afterwards were indebted for their lives.

Once the commandant learned about these circumstances, he took whatever measures he thought necessary to stop them; several people involved in the plot admitted the role they were supposed to play in it. Until now, Mr. King had, because of his unique situation—isolated from society and confined to a small spot in the vast ocean with only a few people—gathered them around him and treated them with the kindness a good family receives from a caring leader. However, he now saw their true colors, and one of his first actions, when peace was restored, was to clear as much land as possible around the settlement so that future wrongdoing would not find refuge in the woods for its activities. Many of the colonists likely owed their lives to this truly fortunate development.

On Thursday the 26th of February the island was visited by a hurricane which came on early in the morning in very heavy gales of wind and rain. By four o'clock several pines of 180 and 200 feet in length, and from 20 to 30 feet in circumference, were blown down. From that hour until noon the gale increased to a dreadful hurricane, with torrents of heavy rain. Every instant pines and live oaks, of the largest dimensions, were borne down by the fury of the blast, which, tearing up roots and rocks with them, left chasms of eight or ten feet depth in the earth. Those pines that were able to resist the wind bent their tops nearly to the ground; and nothing but horror and desolation everywhere presented itself. A very large live oak tree was blown on the granary, which it dashed to pieces, and stove a number of casks of flour; but happily, by the activity of the officers and free people, the flour, Indian corn, and stores, were in a short time collected, and removed to the commandant's house, with the loss only of about half a cask of flour, and some small stores. At noon the gale blew with the utmost violence, tearing up whole forests by the roots. At one o'clock there were as many trees torn up by the roots as would have required the labour of fifty men for a fortnight to have felled. Early in the forenoon the swamp and vale were overflowed, and had every appearance of a large navigable river. The gardens, public and private, were wholly destroyed; cabbages, turnips, and other plants, were blown out of the ground; and those which withstood the hurricane seemed as if they had been scorched. An acre of Indian corn which grew in the vale, and which would have been ripe in about three weeks, was totally destroyed*.

On Thursday, February 26th, the island was hit by a hurricane that started early in the morning with heavy winds and rain. By four o'clock, several pines, standing 180 to 200 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet around, were toppled. From that hour until noon, the winds intensified into a terrifying hurricane, accompanied by torrential rains. Every moment saw pines and large live oaks getting knocked down by the ferocity of the storm, uprooting roots and rocks, leaving deep holes in the ground up to ten feet. The pines that managed to withstand the wind bent their tops nearly to the ground, and all around was sheer horror and desolation. A massive live oak fell on the granary, smashing it and breaking several barrels of flour; however, thanks to the quick actions of the officers and local people, the flour, corn, and supplies were quickly gathered and moved to the commandant's house, with the loss of just about half a barrel of flour and some small items. At noon, the wind blew with extreme force, uprooting entire forests. By one o'clock, there were as many uprooted trees as would have taken fifty men two weeks to cut down. Early in the morning, the swamp and valley were flooded, resembling a large navigable river. The gardens, both public and private, were completely wiped out; cabbages, turnips, and other plants were ripped from the ground, and those that survived looked scorched. An acre of Indian corn in the valley, which would have been ready in about three weeks, was completely destroyed.

[* The direction of the hurricane was across the island from the South-east; and as its fury had blown down more trees than were found lying on the ground when Mr. King landed on it, he conjectured that it was not an annual visitant of the island. This conjecture seems now to be justified, as nothing of the kind has since occurred there.]

[* The hurricane came from the southeast and swept across the island; it had knocked down more trees than Mr. King saw lying on the ground when he arrived, leading him to believe it wasn't a yearly event on the island. This belief appears to be correct, as nothing like it has happened there since.]

His people continued to be healthy, and the climate had not forfeited the good opinion he had formed of it. He acquainted the governor, that for his internal defence he had formed all the free people on the island into a militia, and that a military guard was mounted every night as a picket. There were at this time victualled on the island sixteen free people, fifty-one male convicts, twenty-three female convicts, and four children.

His people stayed healthy, and the climate hadn’t changed his positive view of it. He informed the governor that he had organized all the free people on the island into a militia for local defense, and that a military guard was set up every night as a picket. At that time, there were sixteen free people, fifty-one male convicts, twenty-three female convicts, and four children on the island.

The arrival of the Supply with an account of these occurrences created a temporary variety in the conversation of the day; and a general satisfaction appeared when the little vessel that brought them dropped her anchor again in the cove. Lieutenant Ball, having lost an anchor at Norfolk Island, did not think it prudent to attempt to fall in with the shoal seen by the Golden Grove storeship; his orders on that head being discretionary.

The arrival of the Supply with news about these events sparked a brief change in the day's conversation; everyone seemed pleased when the small ship that brought the news dropped anchor again in the cove. Lieutenant Ball, having lost an anchor at Norfolk Island, didn’t think it wise to try to locate the shoal spotted by the Golden Grove storeship, as his orders on that matter were up to his discretion.

We now return to the transactions of the principal settlement. The person who was noticed in the occurrences of the last month as being employed at Rose Hill under the commissary, had been also entrusted with the direction of the convicts who were employed in clearing and cultivating ground at that place; but, being advanced in years, he was found inadequate to the task of managing and controlling the people who were under his care, the most of whom were always inventing plausible excuses for absence from labour, or for their neglect of it while under his eye. He was therefore removed, and succeeded by a person who came out from England as a servant to the governor. This man joined to much agricultural knowledge a perfect idea of the labour to be required from, and that might he performed by the convicts; and his figure was calculated to make the idle and the worthless shrink if he came near them. He had hitherto been employed at the spot of ground which was cleared soon after our arrival at the adjoining cove, since distinguished by the name of Farm Cove, and which, from the natural poverty of the soil, was not capable of making an adequate return for the labour which had been expended on it. It was, however, still attended to, and the fences kept in repair; but there was not any intention of clearing more ground in that spot.

We now return to the activities of the main settlement. The person mentioned last month as working at Rose Hill under the commissary had also been given the responsibility of overseeing the convicts who were clearing and cultivating land there. However, due to his advanced age, he was found to be unable to manage the people in his care, most of whom constantly came up with believable excuses to avoid work or neglected their duties while he was watching. As a result, he was replaced by someone who had come from England as a servant to the governor. This new man had extensive agricultural knowledge and a clear understanding of the labor required from the convicts, and his presence was likely to intimidate the lazy and unworthy. Until now, he had been working on the piece of land that was cleared shortly after our arrival at the nearby cove, now known as Farm Cove, which, due to the poor quality of the soil, could not provide a decent return for the work put into it. Nevertheless, it was still maintained, with the fences kept in good shape; however, there were no plans to clear any more land in that area.

Toward the latter end of the month two of the birds distinguished in the colony by the name of Emus were brought in by some of the people employed to shoot for the officers. The weight of each was seventy pounds.

Toward the end of the month, two birds known in the colony as Emus were brought in by some of the people hired to hunt for the officers. Each weighed seventy pounds.

CHAPTER VII

Neutral Bay
Smallpox affecting the locals
Captain Hunter on the Sirius comes back with supplies from the Cape of Good Hope
Middleton Island found
Risks of wandering through the forests of an unfamiliar land
Prisoners
The King's birthday celebrated
Prisoners put on a play
A new group led by Lieutenant Cresswell sent to Norfolk Island
Governor Phillip goes on a discovery trip
Events
Hawkesbury River found
Progress at Rose Hill
Important documents left behind in England

April.] The governor thinking it probable that foreign ships might again visit this coast, and perhaps run into this harbour for the purpose of procuring refreshments, directed Mr. Blackburn to survey a large bay on the north shore, contiguous to this cove; and a sufficient depth of water being found, his excellency inserted in the port orders, that all foreign ships coming into this harbour should anchor in this bay, which he named Neutral Bay, bringing Rock Island to bear SSE and the hospital on the west side of Sydney Cove to bear SW by W.

April.] The governor believed it was likely that foreign ships might visit this coast again and possibly dock in this harbor to get supplies. He instructed Mr. Blackburn to survey a large bay on the north shore, next to this cove. After confirming there was enough water depth, he included in the port orders that all foreign ships entering this harbor should anchor in this bay, which he named Neutral Bay, with Rock Island to the southeast and the hospital on the west side of Sydney Cove to the southwest by west.

Early in the month, and throughout its continuance, the people whose business called them down the harbour daily reported, that they found, either in excavations of the rock, or lying upon the beaches and points of the different coves which they had been in, the bodies of many of the wretched natives of this country. The cause of this mortality remained unknown until a family was brought up, and the disorder pronounced to have been the smallpox. It was not a desirable circumstance to introduce a disorder into the colony which was raging with such fatal violence among the natives of the country; but the saving the lives of any of these people was an object of no small importance, as the knowledge of our humanity, and the benefits which we might render them, would, it was hoped, do away the evil impressions they had received of us. Two elderly men, a boy, and a girl were brought up, and placed in a separate hut at the hospital. The men were too far overcome by the disease to get the better of it; but the children did well from the moment of their coming among us. From the native who resided with us we understood that many families had been swept off by this scourge, and that others, to avoid it, had fled into the interior parts of the country. Whether it had ever appeared among them before could not be discovered, either from him or from the children; but it was certain that they gave it a name (gal-gal-la); a circumstance which seemed to indicate a preacquaintance with it.

Early in the month, and throughout it, people who had to go down to the harbor every day reported finding the bodies of many unfortunate locals, either in rock excavations or lying on the beaches and points of various coves they visited. The reason for this high death toll remained unclear until a family was brought in, and the illness was identified as smallpox. It was not a good situation to bring a disease into the colony that was spreading with such deadly force among the local population; however, saving any of these people was very important, as it was hoped that our kindness and the help we could provide would change their negative views of us. Two elderly men, a boy, and a girl were brought in and placed in a separate hut at the hospital. The men were too far gone from the illness to recover, but the children did well as soon as they arrived among us. From the local person living with us, we learned that many families had been wiped out by this disease, and that others had fled to the interior to escape it. Whether this illness had ever appeared among them before was not clear from either him or the children; but it was certain that they had a name for it (gal-gal-la), which suggested they had some prior knowledge of it.

The convicts, among other public works, were now employed in forming a convenient road on the west side from the hospital and landing-place to the storehouses; and in constructing a stable at Farm Cove, with some convenient out-houses for stock.

The convicts, along with other public projects, were now working on building a useful road on the west side from the hospital and landing area to the storage facilities; and in putting up a stable at Farm Cove, along with some useful outbuildings for the livestock.

May.] Of the native boy and girl who had been brought up in the last month, on their recovery from the smallpox, the latter was taken to live with the clergyman's wife, and the boy with Mr. White, the surgeon, to whom, for his attention during the cure, he seemed to be much attached.

May.] Of the local boy and girl who had been raised in the past month, after recovering from smallpox, the girl went to live with the clergyman's wife, and the boy went to stay with Mr. White, the surgeon, to whom he seemed to be quite fond for the care he received during his treatment.

While the eruptions of this disorder continued upon the children, a seaman belonging to the Supply, a native of North America, having been to see them, was seized with it, and soon after died; but its baneful effects were not experienced by any white person of the settlement, although there were several very young children in it at the time.

While the outbreaks of this disorder continued among the children, a sailor from the Supply, a native of North America, who had gone to see them, caught it and soon after died; however, its harmful effects were not felt by any white person in the settlement, even though there were several very young children there at the time.

From the first hour of the introduction of the boy and girl into the settlement, it was feared that the native who had been so instrumental in bringing them in, and whose attention to them during their illness excited the admiration of every one that witnessed it, would be attacked by the same disorder; as on his person were found none of those traces of its ravages which are frequently left behind. It happened as the fears of every one predicted; he fell a victim to the disease in eight days after he was seized with it, to the great regret of every one who had witnessed how little of the savage was found in his manner, and how quickly he was substituting in its place a docile, affable, and truly amiable deportment.

From the very first hour that the boy and girl arrived in the settlement, everyone worried that the native who had played such a key role in bringing them there, and whose care for them during their illness impressed everyone who saw it, would catch the same illness; there were no signs of its effects on him, which are often left behind on others. Unfortunately, just as everyone feared, he succumbed to the disease eight days after he was affected, to the deep sorrow of everyone who had noticed how little savagery was in his behavior, and how quickly he was replacing it with a gentle, friendly, and genuinely kind demeanor.

6th.] After an absence of seven months and six days, to the great satisfaction of every one, about five in the evening his Majesty's ship Sirius anchored in the cove from the Cape of Good Hope. Captain Hunter sailed from this port on the 2nd of October 1788, and, during the space which had elapsed between his departure and his return, had circumnavigated the globe. He made his passage by Cape Horn, arriving on the 2nd of last January at the Cape of Good Hope, from which place he sailed on the 20th of the following month. Off the southern extremity of this country the Sirius met with a gale of wind, when so close in with the land that it was for some time doubtful whether she would clear it. In this gale she received considerable damage; the head of the ship, the figure of the Duke of Berwick, was torn from the cutwater, and she was afterwards found to have been very much weakened.

6th.] After being away for seven months and six days, much to everyone's delight, around five in the evening, His Majesty's ship Sirius anchored in the cove after coming from the Cape of Good Hope. Captain Hunter had left this port on October 2, 1788, and during the time between his departure and return, he had sailed around the globe. He passed through Cape Horn, arriving at the Cape of Good Hope on January 2 of this year, and set sail from there on the 20th of the following month. Near the southern tip of this country, the Sirius encountered a gale, getting so close to the land that it was uncertain for a while if she would clear it. In this storm, she sustained significant damage; the ship's bow decoration, the figure of the Duke of Berwick, was ripped off the cutwater, and it was later discovered that she had been severely weakened.

The Sirius brought 127,000 weight of flour for the settlement, and a twelvemonth's provisions for her ship's company; but this supply was not very flattering, as the short space of four months, at a full ration, would exhaust it. It was, however, very welcome, and her return seemed to have gladdened every heart. Eager were our inquiries after intelligence from that country from which we had been now two years divided, and to whose transactions we were entire strangers. With joy, mingled with concern that we were not personal sharers in the triumph, did we hear of our country's successful efforts in the cause of the Stadtholder, and of the noble armaments which our ministers had fitted out to support it. We trusted, however, that while differently employed, our views were still directed to the same object; for, though labouring at a distance, and in an humbler scene, yet the good, the glory, and the aggrandizement of our country were prime considerations with us. And why should the colonists of New South Wales be denied the merit of endeavouring to promote them, by establishing civilization in the savage world; by animating the children of idleness and vice to habits of laborious and honest industry; and by showing the world that to Englishmen no difficulties are insuperable?

The Sirius brought 127,000 pounds of flour for the settlement, along with a year's worth of supplies for her crew; but this amount wasn’t very encouraging, as in just four months, at full rations, it would be completely used up. Still, it was much appreciated, and her return seemed to uplift everyone’s spirits. We eagerly asked for news from the country we had been separated from for two years and about which we were completely in the dark. With joy, mixed with concern that we weren't there to celebrate the victory ourselves, we heard about our country's successful efforts in support of the Stadtholder and about the impressive fleets our ministers had sent out to back it up. We believed, however, that even though we were engaged elsewhere and in a more modest way, our goals were still aligned with the same purpose; for, although working from afar and in a simpler context, the well-being, honor, and progress of our country were our main priorities. And why shouldn’t the settlers of New South Wales be recognized for their efforts to promote these goals by bringing civilization to the untamed world, encouraging idle and immoral individuals to adopt hard work and honest industry, and proving to the world that no challenge is too great for the English?

We heard with concern that Lieutenant Shortland was near five months in reaching Batavia in the Alexander, in which ship he sailed from this port on the 14th of last July, in company with the Friendship, Borrowdale, and Prince of Wales. From this ship and the Borrowdale he parted company very shortly after leaving our harbour; they proceeded round Cape Horn, to Rio de Janeiro, where in last December they were left lying ready for sea. The Alexander and Friendship proceeding to the northward kept company together as far as the island of Borneo, where, the crews of both ships being so much reduced by the scurvy (the Alexander had buried seventeen of her seamen) that it was impossible to navigate both vessels against the strong currents which they met with, and the western monsoon which had then set in, both ships were brought to an anchor, and most of the Friendship's stores, with all her people, being taken out and received on board the Alexander, she was scuttled and sunk. When the Alexander arrived at Batavia, she had, of both ship's crews, but one man who was able to go aloft.

We heard with concern that Lieutenant Shortland took nearly five months to reach Batavia on the Alexander, which he left from this port on July 14th of last year, sailing alongside the Friendship, Borrowdale, and Prince of Wales. He separated from the Borrowdale shortly after leaving our harbor; the Borrowdale went around Cape Horn to Rio de Janeiro, where she was last reported ready for sea last December. The Alexander and Friendship traveled together north as far as Borneo, but both crews suffered greatly from scurvy (the Alexander had buried seventeen of her sailors), making it impossible to navigate both ships against the strong currents and the western monsoon that had set in. Both ships were anchored, and most of the Friendship's supplies, along with all her crew, were transferred to the Alexander, which was then scuttled and sunk. By the time the Alexander arrived at Batavia, there was only one crew member left from both ships who was able to go aloft.

Lieutenant Shortland, in his letter, noticed some discoveries which he had made; particularly one of an extensive and dangerous shoal, which obtained the name of Middleton Shoal, and was reckoned to be in the latitude of 29 degrees 20 minutes South, and in the longitude of 158 degrees 40 minutes East. He had also discovered an island, which he placed in the latitude of 28 degrees 10 minutes South, and in the longitude of 159 degrees 50 minutes East, and named Sir Charles Middleton Island: his other discoveries, not being so immediately in the vicinity of this territory, were not likely to be of any advantage to the settlement; but it was of some importance to it to learn that an extensive reef was so near, and to find its situation ascertained to be in the track of ships bound from hence to the northward; for if Sir Charles Middleton Island should hereafter be found to possess a safe and convenient harbour, it might prove an interesting discovery for this colony.

Lieutenant Shortland, in his letter, pointed out some discoveries he had made; especially one of a large and hazardous shoal, which was named Middleton Shoal, located at a latitude of 29 degrees 20 minutes South and a longitude of 158 degrees 40 minutes East. He also found an island, which he positioned at a latitude of 28 degrees 10 minutes South and a longitude of 159 degrees 50 minutes East, naming it Sir Charles Middleton Island. His other discoveries, not being close to this territory, were unlikely to benefit the settlement; however, it was important to know that an extensive reef was nearby, and to establish its location in the paths of ships heading north from here; because if Sir Charles Middleton Island is eventually found to have a safe and convenient harbor, it could be a valuable discovery for this colony.

A Dutch ship, bound for Europe, sailing from the Cape of Good Hope on the 9th of last January, Captain Hunter took that opportunity of forwarding the dispatches with which he had been charged by Governor Phillip. He was informed by the master of the Harpy Whaler, who had put into Table Bay, that in England there had been a general anxiety to hear of our safety and arrival in this country, and that ships to be taken up had been advertised for, but had not been engaged, as the government waited for accounts from Governor Phillip.

A Dutch ship, headed for Europe and leaving the Cape of Good Hope on January 9th, Captain Hunter took the chance to send the dispatches he had been given by Governor Phillip. He learned from the captain of the Harpy Whaler, who had stopped in Table Bay, that there was widespread concern in England about our safety and arrival in this country. They had advertised for ships to be hired, but none had been secured since the government was waiting for news from Governor Phillip.

Of these accounts it was hoped that ministers had been some time in possession, and that in consequence supplies were at this hour on their passage to New South Wales.

Of these accounts, it was hoped that the ministers had had them for some time, and as a result, supplies were currently on their way to New South Wales.

Our attention was now directed to receiving from the Sirius the provisions she had brought us; and as the flour had been packed in bags at the Cape of Good Hope, the coopers were immediately employed in setting up and preparing casks for its reception on shore. These being soon completed, the flour was landed and deposited in the store. This, with the building and covering-in of a new hut for the smith's work, formed the principal labour of the convicts at Sydney during this month.

Our focus now shifted to unloading the supplies brought to us by the Sirius; since the flour had been packed in bags at the Cape of Good Hope, the coopers were quickly put to work building and preparing barrels for its arrival on shore. Once they were done, the flour was unloaded and stored away. Along with constructing and roofing a new hut for the blacksmith's work, this made up the main work of the convicts in Sydney during this month.

The boats in the colony not being found sufficient for the purpose of transporting provisions from the store at Sydney to the settlement at Rose Hill, a launch or hoy was put upon the stocks, under the direction of Mr. Reid, the carpenter of the Supply, to be employed for that and other necessary purposes. She was to be built of the timber of the country, and to carry ten tons.

The boats in the colony weren't adequate for transporting supplies from the store in Sydney to the settlement at Rose Hill, so a launch or hoy was constructed, overseen by Mr. Reid, the carpenter of the Supply, to be used for that and other essential tasks. It was designed to be built from local timber and to carry ten tons.

From that settlement, early in the month, two soldiers of the detachment doing duty there were reported to be missing; and, though parties had been sent out daily in different directions to seek for them, yet all was unavailing. It was supposed that they must have lost their way in some of the thick and almost impenetrable brushes which were in the vicinity of Rose Hill, and had there perished miserably. They had gone in search of the sweet tea plant already mentioned; and perhaps when they resigned themselves to the fate which they did not see how to avoid, oppressed with hunger, and unable to wander any farther, they may have been but a short distance from the relief they must so earnestly have desired. A dog that was known to have left the settlement with them reached Rose Hill, almost famished, nine days after they had left it. The extreme danger attendant on a man's going beyond the bounds of his own knowledge in the forests of an unsettled country could no where be more demonstrable than in this. To the westward was an immense open track before him, in which, if unbefriended by either sun or moon, he might wander until life were at an end. Most of the arms which extended into the country from Port Jackson and the harbour on each side of Port Jackson, were of great length, and to round them without a certain and daily supply of provisions was impossible*.

From that settlement, early in the month, two soldiers from the detachment stationed there were reported missing. Despite sending out search parties daily in different directions, all efforts were fruitless. It was believed that they must have lost their way in the dense, nearly impenetrable thickets near Rose Hill and had tragically perished there. They had gone looking for the sweet tea plant mentioned earlier; and perhaps when they accepted the fate they couldn’t escape, overwhelmed by hunger and unable to travel any further, they were only a short distance from the help they desperately wanted. A dog that had left the settlement with them made it to Rose Hill, nearly starved, nine days after they had departed. The extreme danger of venturing beyond the familiar in the forests of an unsettled region couldn't be more clearly illustrated than this. To the west lay a vast open expanse where, if cut off from the sun or moon, one could wander until life ended. Most of the pathways that stretched into the wilderness from Port Jackson and the harbors on either side were long, and navigating them without a reliable daily supply of food was impossible.

[* In many of these arms, when sitting with my companions at my ease in a boat, I have been struck with horror at the bare idea of being lost in them; as, from the great similarity of one cove to another, the recollection would be bewildered in attempting to determine any relative situation. It is certain, that if destroyed by no other means, insanity would accelerate the miserable end that must ensue.]

[* In many of these places, while sitting comfortably with my friends in a boat, I've felt a deep sense of dread at the thought of getting lost; the striking resemblance of one cove to another makes it impossible to remember where we are. It's clear that if nothing else brings me down, madness would hasten the unfortunate outcome that would follow.]

To guard as much as possible against these accidents every measure which could be suggested was adopted. A short time after the settlement was established at Rose Hill, the governor went out with some people in a direction due South, and caused a visible path to be made; that if any person who had strayed beyond his own marks for returning, and knew not where he was, should cross upon his path, he might by following it have a chance of reaching the settlement; and orders were repeatedly given to prohibit straggling beyond the limits which were marked and known.

To protect against these accidents as much as possible, every suggested measure was implemented. Shortly after the settlement was established at Rose Hill, the governor went out with some people heading due South and had a visible path created. This way, if anyone who had wandered too far from their own landmarks and didn't know where they were crossed that path, they might have a chance of finding their way back to the settlement by following it. Repeated orders were given to prevent people from straying beyond the marked and known limits.

Toward the end of the month, some convicts having reported that they had found the body of a white man lying in a cove at a short distance from the settlement, a general muster of the convicts at Sydney was directed; but no person was unaccounted for except Caesar, an incorrigibly stubborn black, who had absconded a few days before from the service of one of the officers, and taken to the woods with some provisions, an iron pot, and a soldier's musket, which he had found means to steal.

Toward the end of the month, some prisoners reported finding the body of a white man lying in a cove not far from the settlement, leading to a general assembly of the convicts in Sydney. The only person missing was Caesar, a notoriously stubborn Black man, who had run away a few days earlier from the service of one of the officers. He had taken to the woods with some food, an iron pot, and a soldier's musket that he had managed to steal.

Garden robberies, after Caesar's flight, were frequent, and some leads belonging to a seine being stolen, a reward of a pardon was held out to any of the accomplices on discovering the person who stole them; and the like reward was also offered if, in five days, he should discover the person who had purchased them; but all was without effect. It was conjectured that they had been stolen for the purpose of being converted into shot by some person not employed or authorized to kill the game of this country.

Garden robberies, following Caesar's escape, became common, and with some leads from a seine being taken, a pardon was promised to any accomplice who revealed the identity of the thief. A similar reward was also offered if, within five days, he could identify the person who bought them; however, all efforts proved ineffective. It was believed that the leads had been stolen to be turned into shot by someone not hired or permitted to hunt the game in this region.

The weather during the latter part of this month was cold; notwithstanding which a turtle was seen in the harbour.

The weather in the latter part of this month was cold; despite that, a turtle was spotted in the harbor.

June 4.] The anniversary of his Majesty's birthday, the second time of commemorating it in this country, was observed with every distinction in our power; for the first time, the ordnance belonging to the colony were discharged; the detachment of marines fired three volleys, which were followed by twenty-one guns from each of the ships of war in the cove; the governor received the compliments due to the day in his new house, of which he had lately taken possession as the government-house of the colony, where his excellency afterwards entertained the officers at dinner, and in the evening some of the convicts were permitted to perform Farquhar's comedy of the Recruiting Officer, in a hut fitted up for the occasion. They professed no higher aim than 'humbly to excite a smile,' and their efforts to please were not unattended with applause.

June 4.] The anniversary of the king's birthday, the second time we're celebrating it in this country, was marked with every distinction we could manage; for the first time, the colony's cannons were fired; the marine detachment shot off three volleys, followed by twenty-one cannon blasts from each of the warships in the harbor; the governor received the greetings appropriate for the day in his new house, which he had recently moved into as the government's official residence, where he afterwards hosted a dinner for the officers. In the evening, some of the convicts were allowed to perform Farquhar's comedy The Recruiting Officer in a hut set up for the occasion. They claimed no higher goal than to 'humbly inspire a smile,' and their efforts to entertain did receive some applause.

In addition to the steps taken by the commandant of Norfolk Island for his internal security, the governor thought an increase of his military force absolutely necessary. Accordingly, the day after his Majesty's birthday, Lieutenant Creswell, with fourteen privates from the detachment of marines, embarked on board the Supply for Norfolk Island; and at the same time he received a written order from his excellency to take upon himself the direction and execution of the authority vested in Mr. King, in the event of any accident happening to that officer, until a successor should be formally appointed and sent from hence.

In addition to the measures made by the commandant of Norfolk Island for his internal security, the governor believed that boosting his military force was essential. So, the day after the king's birthday, Lieutenant Creswell, along with fourteen marines, boarded the Supply for Norfolk Island; at the same time, he received a written order from the governor to take over the responsibilities and powers that Mr. King had, in case anything happened to him, until a new officer was officially appointed and sent from here.

The Supply, on her return from Norfolk Island, was to visit the island seen by Lieutenant Shortland, and laid down by him, in the latitude of 28 degrees 10 minutes South. She was also to cruise for the shoal seen by that officer, and stated to be in the latitude of 29 degrees 20 minutes South, and for the shoal seen by Mr. Blackburn, the south end of which lay in the latitude of 29 degrees 25 minutes South; all of which, if the observations of both officers were equally correct, would, it was supposed, be found contiguous to each other. Lieutenant Ball was directed to land upon the island, if landing should be found practicable; and to determine, if he could, the extent and situation of the shoals.

The Supply, returning from Norfolk Island, was set to visit the island discovered by Lieutenant Shortland, located at a latitude of 28 degrees 10 minutes South. She was also tasked with exploring the shoal noted by that officer, which was reported to be at a latitude of 29 degrees 20 minutes South, along with the shoal identified by Mr. Blackburn, the southern end of which lay at a latitude of 29 degrees 25 minutes South. If both officers had accurate observations, it was believed that these locations would be close to one another. Lieutenant Ball was instructed to land on the island if it was feasible and to determine the extent and location of the shoals, if possible.

On these services the Supply sailed the 6th of this month; on which day the governor set off with a party on a second excursion to Broken Bay, in the hope of being able, from the head of that harbour, to reach the mountains inland. His excellency returned to the settlement on the evening of the 16th, having discovered a capacious freshwater river, emptying itself into Broken Bay, and extending to the westward. He was compelled to return without tracing it to its source, not having a sufficient quantity of provisions with him; but immediately made the necessary preparations for returning to finish his examination of it; and set off on that design with an increased party, and provisions for twenty-one days, on Monday the 29th.

On these trips, the Supply left on the 6th of this month; that day, the governor headed out with a group on a second trip to Broken Bay, hoping to reach the mountains inland from the head of that harbor. He returned to the settlement on the evening of the 16th, having found a large freshwater river flowing into Broken Bay and extending to the west. He had to turn back without tracing it to its source because he didn’t have enough food with him; however, he immediately made the necessary plans to return and finish exploring it. He set out with a larger group and supplies for twenty-one days on Monday the 29th.

Caesar, being closely attended to, was at length apprehended and secured. This man was always reputed the hardest working convict in the country; his frame was muscular and well calculated for hard labour; but in his intellects he did not very widely differ from a brute; his appetite was ravenous, for he could in any one day devour the full ration for two days. To gratify this appetite he was compelled to steal from others, and all his thefts were directed to that purpose. He was such a wretch, and so indifferent about meeting death, that he declared while in confinement, that if he should be hanged, he would create a laugh before he was turned off, by playing off some trick upon the executioner. Holding up such a mere animal as an example was not expected to have the proper or intended effect; the governor therefore, with the humanity that was always conspicuous in his exercise of the authority vested in him, directed that he should be sent to Garden Island, there to work in fetters; and in addition to his ration of provisions he was to be supplied with vegetables from the garden.

Caesar, being closely watched, was eventually apprehended and secured. He was known as the hardest-working convict in the country; his build was strong and well-suited for hard labor, but he didn't differ much from a brute in terms of intelligence. His appetite was insatiable, as he could easily eat the full ration meant for two days in just one. To satisfy this hunger, he resorted to stealing from others, and all his thefts were aimed at that goal. He was such a miserable creature and so indifferent to the prospect of death that he claimed while in confinement that if he were to be hanged, he would make the executioner laugh by pulling a prank before he was executed. Holding up someone like him as an example wasn’t expected to have the desired effect; therefore, the governor, with the compassion that was always evident in how he wielded his authority, ordered that he be sent to Garden Island to work in chains, and in addition to his food rations, he was to receive vegetables from the garden.

The Sirius had, in the gale of wind which she met with off Tasman's Head, sustained much more damage, and was, upon inspection, found to have been weakened much more than was at first conjectured. This was the more unfortunate, as, from the nature of our situation, many important services were yet to be rendered by her to the colony. It became, therefore, a matter of public concern to have her damages repaired and the ship strengthened as expeditiously and as efficaciously as our abilities would admit. A convenient retired cove on the north shore being fixed on for the purpose of a careening cove, she dropped down and took possession of it toward the latter end of the month. She could have been refitted with much ease at Sydney; but there was no doubt that the work necessary to be done to her would meet with fewer interruptions, if the people who were engaged in it were removed from the connections which seamen generally form where there are women of a certain character and description.

The Sirius had sustained a lot more damage in the strong winds off Tasman's Head than anyone initially thought. This was especially unfortunate because, given our situation, she still had many vital services to provide to the colony. Therefore, it became a public concern to get her repairs done and strengthen the ship as quickly and effectively as we could. A suitable secluded cove on the north shore was chosen for the repairs, and she moved there toward the end of the month. She could have been fixed up easily in Sydney, but it was clear that the work would go smoother if the workers were away from the distractions that sailors often encounter when there are certain types of women around.

The gang under the direction of the overseer employed at the brick fields had hitherto only made ten thousand bricks in a month. A kiln was now constructed in which thirty thousand might be burnt off in the same time, which number the overseer engaged to deliver.

The crew supervised by the overseer at the brick fields had only produced ten thousand bricks in a month so far. A kiln was now built that could fire thirty thousand bricks in the same timeframe, a quantity the overseer promised to supply.

The carpenter of the Supply, who had undertaken the construction of the hoy, being obliged to proceed with that vessel on her going to sea, the direction of the few people employed upon her was left with the carpenter of the Sirius during his absence.

The carpenter of the Supply, who was responsible for building the hoy, had to continue with that vessel when it set out to sea, so the carpenter of the Sirius was in charge of the few people working on it during his absence.

July 14.] The governor returned from his second visit to the river, which he named the Hawkesbury, in honor of the noble lord at the head of the committee of council of trade and plantations. He traced the river to a considerable distance to the westward, and was impeded in his further progress by a shallow which he met with a short distance above the hill formerly seen, and then named by him Richmond Hill, to the foot of which the course of the Hawkesbury conducted him and his party. They were deterred from remaining any time in the narrow part of the river, as they perceived evident traces of the freshes having risen to the height of from twenty to forty feet above the level of the water. They represented the windings of the river as beautiful and picturesque; and toward Richmond Hill the face of the country appeared more level and open than in any other part. The vast inundations which had left such tokens behind them of the height to which they swell the river seemed rather unfavourable for the purpose of settling near the banks, which otherwise would have been convenient and desirable, the advantages attending the occupation of an allotment of land on the margin of a fresh-water river being superior to those of any other situation. The soil on the banks of the river was judged to be light; what it was further inland could not be determined with any certainty, as the travellers did not penetrate to any distance, except at Richmond Hill, where the soil appeared to be less mixed with sand than that on the branches.

July 14.] The governor returned from his second trip to the river, which he named the Hawkesbury in honor of the noble lord leading the committee of council for trade and plantations. He explored the river quite a distance to the west but had to stop when he encountered a shallow area just above the hill he previously named Richmond Hill. The course of the Hawkesbury led him and his group to the base of this hill. They didn’t want to stay too long in the narrow part of the river since they saw clear signs of flooding, where the water level had risen between twenty to forty feet above the normal level. They described the river's twists and turns as beautiful and scenic, and toward Richmond Hill, the land seemed flatter and more open than anywhere else. The major floods that left such clear evidence of how high the river swelled seemed to make settling near the banks less favorable, even though it would have been convenient and desirable since living by a freshwater river offers better advantages than other locations. The soil along the riverbanks was considered light, but they couldn’t determine what it was like further inland because they didn’t venture far, except at Richmond Hill, where the soil seemed less sandy than that found on the branches.

During the governor's absence the sail-maker of the Sirius had strayed into the woods about the cove where she was repairing, and, not knowing the country, wandered so far that he could not find his way back to the ship. Fortunately for him, the governor, on his return from Broken Bay, met with him in the north arm of this harbour, but so weakened by hunger and fatigue, as to have all the appearance of intoxication when first discovered and spoken to, and in a situation so remote from a probability of assistance, that perhaps a few days more would have fixed the period of his existence.

During the governor's absence, the sailmaker of the Sirius wandered into the woods near the cove where he was working, and since he wasn’t familiar with the area, he got lost and couldn’t find his way back to the ship. Luckily for him, the governor encountered him in the north arm of the harbor when he returned from Broken Bay. The sailmaker appeared so weakened by hunger and exhaustion that he looked drunk when first found and spoken to, and he was in such a remote place that a few more days might have meant the end of his life.

On visiting the settlement at Rose Hill, the convicts were all found residing in very good huts, apparently under proper regulations, and encouraged to work in the gardens, which they had permission to cultivate during those hours which were not dedicated to public labour. A barrack for the soldiers was erected in the small redoubt which had been constructed, and in which also stood the provision store. Some ground had been opened on the other side of the stream of water which ran into the creek, where a small house had been built for the superintendant Dodd, under whose charge were to be placed a barn and granaries, in which the produce of the ground he was then filling with wheat and barley was to be deposited. The people of all descriptions continued very healthy; and the salubrity of the climate rendered medicine of little use.

On visiting the settlement at Rose Hill, the convicts were all found living in good huts, apparently following proper regulations, and were encouraged to work in the gardens they were allowed to cultivate during their free hours. A barracks for the soldiers was built in the small fort that had been constructed, which also housed the supply store. Some land had been cleared on the other side of the stream that flowed into the creek, where a small house was built for the superintendent Dodd, who was responsible for a barn and granaries where the crops he was planting with wheat and barley would be stored. People of all kinds remained very healthy; the favorable climate made medicine mostly unnecessary.

Notwithstanding little more than two years had elapsed since our departure from England, several convicts about this time signified that the respective terms for which they had been transported had expired, and claimed to be restored to the privileges of free men. Unfortunately, by some unaccountable oversight, the papers necessary to ascertain these particulars had been left by the masters of the transports with their owners in England, instead of being brought out and deposited in the colony; and as, thus situated, it was equally impossible to admit or to deny the truth of their assertions, they were told to wait until accounts could be received from England; and in the mean time by continuing to labour for the public, they would be entitled to share the public provisions in the store. This was by no means satisfactory, as it appeared that they expected an assurance from the governor of receiving some gratuity for employing their future time and labour for the benefit of the settlement. One of these people having, in the presence of his excellency, expressed himself disrespectfully of the lieutenant-governor, he was brought before a criminal court and tried for the same, of which offence being found guilty, he was sentenced to receive six hundred lashes, and to wear irons for the space of six months.

Although just over two years had passed since we left England, several convicts at this time indicated that their sentences had ended and requested to be restored to the rights of free men. Unfortunately, due to some inexplicable oversight, the documents needed to confirm these claims had been left by the shipmasters with their owners in England instead of being brought out and filed in the colony. Under these circumstances, it was impossible to verify or dismiss their claims, so they were told to wait until information could arrive from England. In the meantime, by continuing to work for the public, they would be eligible to share in the public supplies at the store. This situation was far from satisfactory, as they seemed to expect some assurance from the governor that they would receive some compensation for using their time and labor for the good of the settlement. One of these convicts, in front of the governor, made a disrespectful remark about the lieutenant-governor and was brought before a criminal court for this offense. He was found guilty and sentenced to receive six hundred lashes and to wear chains for six months.

It must be acknowledged, that these people were most peculiarly and unpleasantly situated. Conscious in their own minds that the sentence of the law had been fulfilled upon them, it must have been truly distressing to their feelings to find that they could not be considered in any other light, or received into any other situation, than that in which alone they had been hitherto known in the settlement.

It has to be recognized that these people were in a very strange and uncomfortable position. Knowing in their hearts that the law had been carried out against them, it must have been really upsetting for them to realize that they couldn’t be seen any differently or accepted into any other role than the one they had always held in the community.

In the infancy of the colony, however, but little was to be gained by their being restored to the rights and privileges of free people, as no one was in possession of such abundance as to afford to support another independent of the public store. Every man, therefore, must have wrought for his provisions; and if they had been gratified in their expectation of being paid for their labour, the price of provisions in this country would certainly have been found equal, if not superior, to any value they could have set upon their time and labour for the public. As these considerations must have offered themselves to the notice of many good understandings which were among them, it was rather conjectured, that the dissatisfaction which evidently prevailed on this subject was set on foot and fomented by some evil-designing spirits and associates in former iniquities. The governor, however, terminated this business for the present, by directing the judge-advocate to take the affidavits of such persons as would make oath that they had served the term prescribed by the law, and by recommending them to work for the public until some information was received from government on that head.

In the early days of the colony, not much was gained by restoring the rights and privileges of free people since no one had enough resources to support someone independently of the public store. Therefore, everyone had to work for their own food; and if they had been promised payment for their labor, the cost of food in this country would likely have equaled, if not exceeded, any value they placed on their time and work for the public. Given that many sensible individuals among them were aware of these considerations, it was believed that the dissatisfaction surrounding this issue was stirred up by some malicious individuals with a history of wrongdoing. However, the governor wrapped up this matter for now by instructing the judge-advocate to gather sworn statements from those who claimed they had served the time required by law and by suggesting they work for the public until further instructions came from the government on this matter.

The observatory which was erected on our first landing being found small and inconvenient, as well for the purpose of observing as for the residence of Lieutenant Dawes and the reception of the astronomical instruments, the stone-cutters began preparing stone to construct another, the materials for which were found in abundance upon the spot, the west point of the cove.

The observatory we built on our first landing turned out to be too small and not practical, both for observing and for Lieutenant Dawes to live in, as well as for storing the astronomical instruments. So, the stone-cutters started preparing stone to build a new one, with plenty of materials readily available at the west point of the cove.

CHAPTER VIII

Barracks
Stock
Information from Norfolk Island
Police set up at the main settlement
A successful catch of fish
A soldier tried for rape
Supplies start to run low
Indigenous people
A launch completed
Rats
Rations cut to two-thirds
Sirius returns to the Cove
One of her crew lost in the woods
Supply departs for Norfolk Island
Importance of the night watch
A female convict executed for burglary
Two indigenous people captured
Serious allegation against the assistant commissary resolved
Lieutenant Dawes's trip
The Supply comes back
Transactions

August.] Of the four barracks which were begun in March 1788, and at that time intended to be finished as such, two had been for some time occupied by the detachment, two companies residing in each; a third was at the beginning of this month converted into a storehouse; and the wood-work of the fourth was taken down and applied to some other purpose; the labour and time required to finish it being deemed greater than the utility that would be derived from it as a barrack, the two that were already occupied conveniently and comfortably accommodating the detachment.

August.] Of the four barracks that started construction in March 1788, which were initially meant to be completed as barracks, two had been occupied for a while by the detachment, with two companies in each. A third one was turned into a storehouse at the beginning of this month, and the wood from the fourth was taken down and repurposed; finishing it was seen as requiring more labor and time than it was worth as a barrack, since the two already occupied were conveniently and comfortably housing the detachment.

As every circumstance became of importance that might in its tendency forward or retard the day whereon the colony was to be pronounced independent of the mother-country for provisions, it was soon observed with concern, that hitherto by far a greater proportion of males than females had been produced by the animals we had brought for the purpose of breeding. This, in any other situation, might not have been so nicely remarked; but here, where a country was to be stocked, a litter of twelve pigs whereof three only were females became a subject of conversation and inquiry. Out of seven kids which had been produced in the last month, one only was a female; and many similar instances had before occurred, but no particular notice was attracted until their frequency rendered them remarkable. This circumstance excited an anxious care in every one for the preservation of such females as might be produced; and at the moment now spoken of no person entertained an idea of slaughtering one of that sort; indeed males were so abundant that fortunately there was no occasion.

As every situation became crucial that could either push forward or delay the day when the colony would be declared independent from the mother country regarding supplies, it was quickly noticed with concern that, up until now, we had produced far more males than females from the animals we had brought for breeding. In any other context, this might not have been so carefully noted; but here, where the land needed to be populated, a litter of twelve pigs with only three females sparked conversation and questions. Out of seven kids born in the last month, only one was female; and many similar cases had previously occurred, but they weren't particularly noted until their frequency made them stand out. This situation led to increased worry among everyone about keeping any females that might be born; and at this moment, no one considered the idea of slaughtering one of them; in fact, males were so plentiful that fortunately, there was no need to.

On the 7th Lieutenant Ball returned from Norfolk Island, and from an unsuccessful cruise of nearly six weeks in search of the island and shoals for which he was directed to look. He sailed over the identical spot on which Mr. Shortland had fixed the latitudes and longitudes of his island and his shoal, without seeing either, and therefore concluded, that they had not been placed far enough to the northward. The error might have lain in copying the account from his log-book into his letter.

On the 7th, Lieutenant Ball came back from Norfolk Island after a nearly six-week cruise that didn’t find the island or the shoals he was supposed to look for. He sailed over the exact spot where Mr. Shortland had marked the latitudes and longitudes of the island and the shoal but saw neither, leading him to believe that they hadn’t been placed far enough north. The mistake might have happened when he transferred the details from his logbook into his letter.

From Norfolk Island Lieutenant King wrote, that he had cleared seventeen acres of ground upon the public account, all of which were either sown or ready for sowing; that caterpillars had done much damage to some wheat which had just come up; and that he was erecting a storehouse capable of containing a large quantity of stores and provisions, and had made a visible road from Sydney Bay to Cascade Bay. The pine trees, of the utility of which such sanguine hopes had been entertained, were found to be unfit for large masts or yards, being shakey or rotten at thirty or forty feet from the butt; the wood was so brittle that it would not make a good oar, and so porous that the water soaked through the planks of a boat which had been built of it. Mr. King also lamented their ignorance of the proper mode of preparing the flax plant, which rendered it useless to them. A single pod of cotton had been found on the island, and a tree had been discovered, the bark of which was strong, and of a texture like cotton. A species of bird also had been met with, which burrowed in the ground, and had been seen in such numbers about the summit of Mount Pitt, the highest hill on the island, that they were contemplated as a resource in any future season of distress, should they be found to visit the island at stated periods, and to deposit their eggs on it. Mr. King spoke well of the general behaviour of the subjects of his little government since the detection of their late scheme to overturn it.

From Norfolk Island, Lieutenant King wrote that he had cleared seventeen acres of land for public use, all of which were either planted or ready to be planted; caterpillars had caused significant damage to some wheat that had just emerged; and he was building a storehouse large enough to hold a substantial amount of supplies and provisions. He had also created a visible road connecting Sydney Bay to Cascade Bay. The pine trees, which had initially seemed so promising, were found to be unsuitable for making large masts or yards, as they were shaky or rotten thirty or forty feet from the base; the wood was too brittle to make a good oar and too porous, causing water to seep through the planks of boats made from it. Mr. King also expressed regret over their lack of knowledge regarding the proper way to prepare the flax plant, which made it useless to them. A single cotton pod had been found on the island, and a tree was discovered with bark that was strong and had a texture similar to cotton. A type of bird was also encountered that burrowed in the ground, seen in large numbers around the summit of Mount Pitt, the highest hill on the island. They were considered a potential resource in any future times of hardship, should they return to the island regularly to lay their eggs. Mr. King praised the general conduct of the people under his small government since their recent plot to undermine it was uncovered.

From the frequent commission of offences in this settlement and at Rose Hill, where scarcely a night passed but complaint was made on the following morning of a garden being robbed, or a house broken into, so favourable a report could not be given of the general conduct of the people. The frequency of these enormities had become so striking, that it appeared absolutely necessary to devise some plan which might put a stop to an evil that was every day increasing. The convicts who were employed in making bricks, living in huts by themselves on the spot where their work was performed, were suspected of being the perpetrators of most of the offences committed at Sydney; and orders had been given, forbidding, under pain of punishment, their being seen in town after sunset. These depredations continuing, however, a convict of the name of Harris presented to the judge-advocate a proposal for establishing a night-watch, to be selected from among the convicts, with authority to secure all persons of that description who should be found straggling from the huts at improper hours. This proposal being submitted to the governor, and the plan thoroughly digested and matured, the first attempt toward a police in this settlement commenced on Saturday the 8th of August. The following are the heads of the plan:

From the frequent crimes in this settlement and at Rose Hill, where hardly a night went by without someone reporting a garden robbery or a break-in, it was clear that the overall behavior of the people couldn't be praised. The regularity of these offenses became so alarming that it seemed absolutely necessary to come up with a plan to stop an issue that was getting worse every day. The convicts working in the brick-making area, living in huts near where they worked, were suspected of being behind most of the crimes happening in Sydney; orders had been issued prohibiting them from being in town after sunset, under threat of punishment. However, as these robberies continued, a convict named Harris presented a proposal to the judge-advocate to establish a night watch made up of convicts, with the authority to detain anyone of that group found wandering away from the huts at inappropriate times. This proposal was submitted to the governor, and after careful consideration and refinement, the first step toward a police force in this settlement began on Saturday, August 8th. Here are the key points of the plan:

The settlement was divided into four districts, over each of which was placed a watch consisting of three persons, one principal and two subordinate watchmen. These, being selected from among those convicts whose conduct and character had been unexceptionable since their landing, were vested with authority to patrol at all hours in the night, to visit such places as might be deemed requisite for the discovery of any felony, trespass, or misdemeanor, and to secure for examination all persons that might appear to be concerned therein; for which purpose they were directed to enter any suspected hut or dwelling or to use any other means that might appear expedient. They were required to detain and give information to the nearest guardhouse of any soldier or seaman who should be found straggling after the taptoo had been beat. They were to use their utmost endeavours to trace out offenders on receiving accounts of any depredation; and in addition to their night duty, they were directed to take cognizance of such convicts as gamed, or sold or bartered their slops or provisions, and report them for punishment. A return of all occurrences during the night was to be made to the judge-advocate; and the military were required to furnish the watch with any assistance they might be in need of, beyond what the civil power could give them. They were provided each with a short staff, to distinguish them during the night, and to denote their office in the colony; and were instructed not to receive any stipulated encouragement or reward from any individual for the conviction of offenders, but to expect that negligence or misconduct in the execution of their trust would be punished with the utmost rigour. It was to have been wished, that a watch established for the preservation of public and private property had been formed of free people, and that necessity had not compelled us, in selecting the first members of our little police, to appoint them from a body of men in whose eyes, it could not be denied, the property of individuals had never before been sacred. But there was not any choice. The military had their line of duty marked out for them, and between them and the convict there was no description of people from whom overseers or watchmen could be provided. It might, however, be supposed, that among the convicts there must be many who would feel a pride in being distinguished from their fellows, and a pride that might give birth to a returning principle of honesty. It was hoped that the convicts whom we had chosen were of this description; some effort had become necessary to detect the various offenders who were prowling about with security under cover of the night; and the convicts who had any property were themselves interested in defeating such practices. They promised fidelity and diligence, from which the scorn of their fellow-prisoners should not induce them to swerve, and began with a confidence of success the duty which they had themselves offered to undertake.

The settlement was divided into four districts, each overseen by a watch of three people: one leader and two assistants. These watchmen were chosen from among the convicts who had behaved well since arriving, and they were given the authority to patrol at all hours of the night, check places deemed necessary to uncover any crimes, and detain anyone who seemed involved in wrongdoing. They were instructed to enter any suspicious hut or dwelling or take other necessary actions. They had to report any soldier or sailor found wandering after nightfall to the nearest guardhouse. They were expected to actively track down offenders after receiving reports of theft or other crimes. Besides their night duties, they were also directed to monitor convicts who gambled, sold, or traded their rations, and report them for punishment. A record of all nighttime incidents was to be submitted to the judge-advocate, and the military was required to provide any additional support they needed beyond what civil authority could offer. Each watchman was given a short staff for identification at night and to signify their role in the colony; they were instructed not to accept any rewards or incentives from individuals for convicting offenders but to know that any negligence or misconduct in their duties would be dealt with severely. It would have been preferable for the watch responsible for protecting public and private property to have been made up of free people, rather than having to appoint the first members of our small police force from those whose past actions made it clear that individual property wasn’t safe in their eyes. Unfortunately, there were no other options. The military had their own duties, and there was no middle ground between them and the convicts to find overseers or watchmen. However, it could be assumed that among the convicts, there were many who wanted to distinguish themselves from others, and that desire could spark a return to honesty. It was hoped that the chosen convicts fit this description; some action was necessary to catch the various offenders confidently hiding in the dark, and the convicts with property had a stake in stopping such behavior. They promised to be loyal and diligent, and they began their self-assigned duties with confidence in their success, unaffected by their fellow prisoners' scorn.

The Sirius, on being closely inspected and surveyed by her own carpenter and the carpenter of the Supply, was found to be so much weakened, that the repairs which were requisite to put her in a state fit to encounter the storms of this coast would require the labour of four men for six months and twenty-four days, not including Sundays in the calculation. This was unfortunate; the resources of a king's yard were not to be found in the careening cove in Port Jackson; people who looked forward beyond the event of the morrow began to think that her services might be wanted before she could be in a condition to render them; and it was considered a matter of the utmost moment, to bestow the labour that she required in as little time and with as much skill as the circumstances of our situation would admit.

The Sirius, after being thoroughly examined by her own carpenter and the carpenter from the Supply, was found to be so badly damaged that it would take the work of four men six months and twenty-four days to repair her, not counting Sundays. This was unfortunate; the resources of a king's shipyard weren't available in the careening cove at Port Jackson. Those who thought ahead started to believe that her services might be needed before she could be ready. It was deemed absolutely crucial to get her the repairs she needed done as quickly and skillfully as possible given our circumstances.

12th.] Such attentions as were within our power were shown to the anniversary of his royal highness the Prince of Wales's birthday; and although the table of our festivity was not crowned with luxuries or delicacies, yet the glass that was consecrated on that occasion to his royal highness's name was in no part of the British dominions accompanied with more sincere wishes for his happiness.

12th.] The best gestures we could manage were shown on the anniversary of the birthday of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales; and even though our celebration table wasn’t filled with luxuries or delicacies, the toast we made in his royal highness's honor was accompanied by more heartfelt wishes for his happiness than anywhere else in the British dominions.

On the 20th, Daniel Gordon, a convict, was brought to trial for stealing a quantity of provisions and clothes, the property of persons employed by the lieutenant-governor at some ground which he had in cultivation near the settlement. The prisoner appearing wild and incoherent on being brought before the court, the principal surgeon of the settlement was directed to examine him, and giving it as his opinion, upon oath, that the man's pulse very strongly indicated either a delirium or intoxication, his trial was put off until the following morning, when, the same appearances of wildness continuing on him, witnesses were examined as to the tenor of his conduct during his being in confinement for the offence; and the court were of opinion from their testimony, 'That the prisoner was not in a state of mind to be put upon his trial.' He was therefore placed under the care of the surgeon at the hospital, and the court broke up.

On the 20th, Daniel Gordon, an inmate, was taken to court for stealing a bunch of food and clothes belonging to people working for the lieutenant-governor on some land he had been farming near the settlement. When he was brought before the court, he seemed agitated and incoherent, so the chief surgeon of the settlement was asked to assess him. He testified under oath that the man’s pulse strongly suggested he was either delirious or intoxicated, so his trial was postponed until the next morning. When he still appeared agitated, witnesses were called to testify about his behavior while he was in custody for the crime. The court concluded from their testimonies that 'the prisoner was not in a state of mind to stand trial.' He was then placed under the care of the hospital surgeon, and the court adjourned.

It was generally supposed, that a firm belief that his offence would be fixed upon him occasioned the derangement of intellect which appeared. He was a notorious offender, and had been once pardoned in this country under the gallows. Many of his fellow-prisoners gave him credit for the ability with which he had acted his part, and perhaps he deserved their applause; but disordered as he appeared before the court, their humanity would not suffer them to proceed against a wretch who either had not, or affected not to have, a sufficient sense of his situation.

It was widely believed that a strong conviction that his crime would be assigned to him caused the mental instability that was evident. He was a well-known criminal and had once been pardoned in this country just before being executed. Many of his fellow inmates admired the way he played his role, and he might have earned their praise; however, as disoriented as he seemed in front of the court, their compassion wouldn't allow them to take action against a person who either truly lacked or pretended to lack an adequate understanding of his circumstances.

Slops were served to the convicts during this month, and the detachment received the remainder of the shoes which they brought from England.

Slops were given to the prisoners this month, and the group got the rest of the shoes they brought from England.

September.] In England some dependence had been placed on fish as a resource for the settlement, but sufficient for a general distribution had not hitherto been caught at any one time. On the 4th of this month the people belonging to the Supply had a very large haul; their seine was so full, that had they hauled it ashore it must have burst; the ropes of it were therefore made fast on shore, and the seine was suffered to lie until left dry by the tide. The fish were brought up to the settlement, and distributed among the military and convicts. A night or two after this, a fishing-boat caught about one hundred dozen of small fish; but this was precarious, and, happening after the provisions were served, no other advantage could be derived from the circumstance, than that of every man's having a fish-meal.

September.] In England, there had been some reliance on fish as a resource for the settlement, but enough had not been caught at any one time for widespread distribution. On the 4th of this month, the crew of the Supply had a very large catch; their net was so full that if they had pulled it ashore, it would have burst. So, they secured the ropes on shore and let the net stay until the tide went out. The fish were brought back to the settlement and shared among the military and convicts. A night or two later, a fishing boat caught about one hundred dozen small fish; however, this was uncertain, and since it happened after the rations had been distributed, the only benefit was that everyone got to have a fish meal.

On the 10th a criminal court of judicature was assembled for the trial of Henry Wright, a private soldier in the detachment, for a rape on a child of eight years of age; of which heinous offence being found guilty, he received sentence to die; but being recommended by the court to the governor, his excellency was pleased to pardon him, on condition of his residing, during the term of his natural life, at Norfolk Island. This was an offence that did not seem to require an immediate example; the chastity of the female part of the settlement had never been so rigid, as to drive men to so desperate an act; and it was believed, that beside the wretch in question there was not in the colony a man of any description who would have attempted it.

On the 10th, a criminal court was held to try Henry Wright, a private soldier in the unit, for raping an eight-year-old girl. He was found guilty of this terrible crime and sentenced to death, but the court recommended him to the governor, who decided to pardon him on the condition that he would live on Norfolk Island for the rest of his life. This was an offense that didn't seem to call for an immediate example; the sexual modesty of the women in the settlement had never been so strict as to push men to such a desperate act, and it was believed that, aside from the accused, there wasn’t any man in the colony who would have attempted it.

On the 12th, the butter, which had hitherto been served at six ounces per week to each man in the settlement, being expended, the like quantity of sugar was directed to be issued in its stead. This was the first of the provisions brought from England which had wholly failed; and, fortunately, the failure was in an article which could be the best spared. It never had been very good, and was not, strictly speaking, a necessary of life.

On the 12th, the butter, which had previously been served at six ounces per week to each guy in the settlement, was all gone, so it was decided to give out the same amount of sugar instead. This was the first of the supplies brought from England that completely ran out; luckily, it was an item that could be most easily replaced. It had never been very good, and wasn't exactly essential for survival.

A small boat belonging to a gentleman of the settlement, having been too deeply laden with cabbage-trees which had been collected in a bay down the harbour for the purpose of building, was overset on her return to the cove, by touching on a rock which lay off one of the points. There were three people in her, two of whom swam on shore; the third remained five hours on her keel, and was accidentally met with and picked up by the people of a fishing boat.

A small boat owned by a local gentleman, loaded down with cabbage trees that had been gathered from a bay down the harbor for building, capsized on its way back to the cove after hitting a rock near one of the points. There were three people on board; two swam to shore, while the third stayed on the upside-down boat for five hours until a fishing boat happened to come by and rescued him.

Captain Hunter, unwilling to lose any opportunity of rendering a service to the colony, while the repairs of his ship were going on, surveyed the two adjoining harbours of Broken Bay and Botany Bay; and correct charts were thus obtained of these two harbours, so admirably situated with relation to Port jackson.

Captain Hunter, eager to take advantage of every chance to help the colony while his ship was being repaired, explored the two nearby harbors of Broken Bay and Botany Bay. This led to the creation of accurate charts for these two harbors, which are perfectly located in relation to Port Jackson.

The natives, who had for some time past given very little interruption, toward the end of the month attacked Henry Hacking, one of the quarter-masters of the Sirius, who, being reckoned a good shot, was allowed to shoot for the officers and ship's company. His account was, that, being in the woods, a stone was thrown at him from one of two natives whom he perceived behind him, and that on looking about he found dispersed among the trees a number that could not be less than forty. Wishing to intimidate them, he several times only presented his piece toward them; but, finding that they followed him, he at last gave them the contents, which happened to be small shot for birds. These he replaced with buckshot, and got rid of his troublesome and designing followers by discharging his piece a second time. They all made off; but some of them stumbling as they ran, he apprehended they had been wounded. This account met with more credit than could usually be allowed to such tales, as the person who gave it was held in great estimation by the officers of his ship both as a man and as a seaman.

The locals, who had been mostly quiet for a while, attacked Henry Hacking, one of the quartermasters of the Sirius, towards the end of the month. He was known to be a good shot, so he was permitted to shoot for the officers and crew. He reported that while he was in the woods, one of two natives he saw behind him threw a stone at him. When he looked around, he saw that there were at least forty more scattered among the trees. Trying to scare them off, he aimed his gun at them several times, but when they continued to follow him, he eventually fired at them with small shot meant for birds. He then switched to buckshot and got rid of his annoying followers by shooting again. They all ran away, but some stumbled as they fled, leading him to believe they had been hit. This account was given more credibility than usual for such stories, as the person telling it was highly regarded by the ship’s officers both as a person and a sailor.

Mr. Palmer, the purser of the Sirius, having occasion to cut timber in a cove down the harbour, was visited by some natives, who took an opportunity of concealing two of his axes in the bushes. On his missing the implements, the natives went off in some consternation, leaving two children behind them, whom Mr. Palmer detained, and would have brought up to the settlement, had not their friends ransomed them with the property that had been stolen.

Mr. Palmer, the purser of the Sirius, needed to cut timber in a cove down the harbor when he was approached by some locals. They took the chance to hide two of his axes in the bushes. Once he noticed the tools were missing, the locals fled in a panic, leaving behind two children. Mr. Palmer kept the children and would have taken them to the settlement if their friends hadn’t traded back the stolen items to get them released.

At Rose Hill, where the corn promised well, an Emu had been killed, which stood seven feet high, was a female, and when opened was found to contain exactly fifty eggs.

At Rose Hill, where the corn looked promising, a seven-foot-tall female emu had been killed, and when it was opened, it was found to contain exactly fifty eggs.

October.] The launch that was begun in May last by the carpenter of the Supply, being completed, was put into the water the 5th of October. From the quantity of wood used in her construction she appeared to be a mere bed of timber, and, when launched, was named by the convicts, with an happiness that is sometimes visible in the allusions of the lower order of people, The Rose Hill Packet*. She was very soon employed in transporting provisions to Rose Hill, and going up with the tide of flood, at the top of high water, passed very well over the flats at the upper part of the harbour.

October.] The launch that began in May by the carpenter of the Supply was finished and put into the water on October 5th. With the amount of wood used in her construction, she looked like just a pile of timber, and when she was launched, the convicts gave her a cheerful name, The Rose Hill Packet*. She was quickly put to work transporting supplies to Rose Hill, and with the rising tide at high water, she navigated well over the shallow areas in the upper part of the harbor.

[* She was afterwards generally known by the name of The Lump, a word more strictly applying to her size and construction.]

[* She later became widely known as The Lump, a term that more accurately described her size and shape.]

Our enemies the rats, who worked unseen, and attacked us where we were most vulnerable, being again observed in numbers about the provision store, the commissary caused the provisions to be moved out of one store into another; for, alas! at this period they could be all contained in one. These pernicious vermin were found to be very numerous, and the damage they had done much greater than the state of our stores would admit. Eight casks of flour were at one time found wholly destroyed. From the store, such as escaped the hunger of the different dogs that were turned loose upon them flew to the gardens of individuals, where they rioted upon the Indian corn which was growing, and did considerable mischief

Our enemies, the rats, who worked behind the scenes and struck us where we were weakest, were once again spotted in large numbers around the supply store. The commissary ordered the supplies to be moved from one store to another; unfortunately, at this point, everything could fit into just one. These pesky creatures were incredibly plentiful, and the damage they caused was far greater than what our supplies could handle. Eight casks of flour were completely ruined at one point. From the store, those that avoided being caught by the various dogs we had let loose on them fled to people's gardens, where they feasted on the growing corn and caused significant damage.

The presence of a captain being no longer deemed necessary at Rose Hill, the military guard there for the protection of the stores was reduced to a subaltern officer, and a proportionate number of privates. Mr. Dodd, who had for some time been authorized by the governor to inflict corporal punishment on the convicts for idleness, rioting, or other misdemeanors, had obtained such an influence over them, that military coercion was not so necessary as when the settlement was first established. Of this person, the officers who had been on duty at Rose Hill from time to time gave the most favourable reports, speaking of him as one in every respect qualified to execute the trust which had been reposed in him by the governor.

The need for a captain at Rose Hill was no longer necessary, so the military guard assigned to protect the supplies was reduced to a junior officer and a smaller number of privates. Mr. Dodd, who had been granted authority by the governor to discipline the convicts for laziness, riots, or other offenses, had gained such control over them that military force was not as essential as it had been when the settlement was first founded. The officers stationed at Rose Hill from time to time gave very positive feedback about him, describing him as fully capable of fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by the governor.

During this month a gang of convicts were employed at Sydney in forming a convenient road from the hospital to the magazine and observatory on the point; and a small hut, for the reception of a corporal's guard at the hospital, was erected.

During this month, a group of convicts worked in Sydney to create a useful road from the hospital to the magazine and observatory at the point, and a small hut was built to accommodate a corporal's guard at the hospital.

Of the few people who died in October, (one soldier, three women, and one child), one was an unhappy woman who had been sent on board in a state of insanity, and who had remained in that condition until the day of her death; she and another of the three women died in child-bed; and the soldier was carried off by a disorder which he brought with him into the country. 12 These circumstances tended to establish the good opinion which was at first formed of the salubrity of the climate of New South Wales.

Of the few people who died in October—one soldier, three women, and one child—one was an unhappy woman who had been sent on board in a state of madness and remained that way until her death. She and another of the three women died during childbirth, and the soldier succumbed to an illness he had brought with him to the country. These circumstances helped reinforce the initial good impression about the healthiness of the climate in New South Wales.

November.] This month opened with a serious, but prudent and necessary alteration in our provisions. The ration which had hitherto been issued was, on the first of the month, reduced to two thirds of every species, spirits excepted, which continued as usual. This measure was calculated to guard against accidents; and the necessity of it was obvious to every one, from the great uncertainty as to the time when a supply might arrive from England, and from the losses which had been and still were occasioned by rats in the provision store. Two years provisions were landed with us in the colony: we had been within two months of that time disembarked, and the public store had been aided only by a small surplus of the provisions which remained of what had been furnished by the contractor for the passage, and the supply of four months flour which had been received by the Sirius from the Cape of Good Hope. All this did not produce such an abundance as would justify any longer continuance of the full ration; and although it was reasonable to suppose, as we had not hitherto received any supplies, that ships would arrive before our present stock was exhausted; yet, if the period of distress should ever arrive, the consciousness that we had early foreseen and strove to guard against its arrival would certainly soften the bitterness of our reflections; and, guarding thus against the worst, that worst providentially might never happen. The governor, whose humanity was at all times conspicuous, directed that no alteration should he made in the ration to be issued to the women. They were already upon two thirds of the man's allowance; and many of them either had children who could very well have eaten their own and part of the mother's ration, or they had children at the breast; and although they did not labour, yet their appetites were never so delicate as to have found the full ration too much, had it been issued to them. The like reduction was enforced afloat as well as on shore, the ships' companies of the Sirius and Supply being put to two thirds of the allowance usually issued to the king's ships. This, as a deduction of the eighths allowed by custom to the purser was made from their ration, was somewhat less than what was to be issued in the settlement.

November.] This month began with a serious but necessary change in our supplies. Starting on the first of the month, the ration that had been provided was cut down to two-thirds for every type of food, except for spirits, which remained the same. This decision was meant to prepare for any emergencies, and it was clear to everyone that it was needed due to the uncertainty of when we might get more supplies from England, as well as the ongoing losses caused by rats in the storage area. Two years' worth of provisions had been brought to the colony: we were now nearly two months into that period since our arrival, and the public store only had a small surplus left from what the contractor had provided for our passage and the four months’ worth of flour that the Sirius had received from the Cape of Good Hope. This didn’t create a sufficient amount to justify continuing the full ration, and although it was reasonable to think that ships would arrive with supplies before we ran out completely, if a period of hardship did come, knowing that we had anticipated it and taken steps to prevent it would certainly lessen the pain of regret; and by preparing for the worst, we might avoid that worst-case scenario altogether. The governor, whose compassion was always clear, ordered that the ration for women should remain unchanged. They were already on two-thirds of the men's allowance, and many of them either had children who could have easily eaten their own share as well as part of the mother’s ration, or they were nursing infants; and even though they didn’t work, they would never have found the full ration too much if it had been given to them. The same reduction applied at sea as well as on land, with the crews of the Sirius and Supply receiving two-thirds of the usual ration granted to the king's ships. This, after deducting the eighths that were customarily allowed to the purser, was a bit less than what was issued in the settlement.

Thus opened the month of November in this settlement; where, though we had not the accompanying gloom and vapour of our own climate to render it terrific to our minds, yet we had that before us, in the midst of all our sunshine, which gave it the complexion of the true November so inimical to our countrymen.

Thus began the month of November in this settlement; where, although we didn't have the usual gloom and fog of our own climate to make it terrifying to us, we still faced something that, amidst all our sunshine, gave it the true essence of November, which was so unfriendly to our fellow countrymen.

It was soon observed, that of the provisions issued at this ration on the Saturday the major part of the convicts had none left on the Tuesday night; it was therefore ordered, that the provisions should be served in future on the Saturdays and Wednesdays. By these means, the days which would otherwise pass in hunger, or in thieving from the few who were more provident, would be divided, and the people themselves be more able to perform the labour which was required from them. Overseers and married men were not included in this order.

It was soon noticed that most of the supplies given out during the Saturday ration were gone by Tuesday night; so it was decided that the food should be distributed on Saturdays and Wednesdays moving forward. This way, the days that would have been spent hungry or stealing from those who were more resourceful would be broken up, allowing everyone to be more capable of doing the work expected of them. Overseers and married men were not part of this order.

On the 7th Captain Hunter brought the Sirius into the cove completely repaired. She had been strengthened with riders placed within board, her copper had been carefully examined, and she was now in every respect fit for sea. Previous to her quitting the careening cove, Mr. Hill, one of the master's mates, having had some business at Sydney, was landed on his return early in the morning on the north shore, opposite Sydney Cove, from whence the walk to the ship was short; but he was never afterwards heard of. Parties were sent day after day in quest of him for several days. Guns were fired from the Sirius every four hours, night and day, but all to no effect. He had met with some fatal accident, which deprived a wife of the pleasurable prospect of ever seeing him return to her and to his friends. He had once before missed his way; and it was reported, when his loss was confirmed, that he declared on the fatal morning, when stepping out of the boat, that he expected to lose himself again for a day or two. His conjecture was more than confirmed; he lost himself for ever, and thus added one to the number of those unfortunate persons who had perished in the woods of this country.

On the 7th, Captain Hunter brought the Sirius into the cove fully repaired. She had been reinforced with additional support inside the hull, her copper had been thoroughly checked, and she was now completely ready for sea. Before leaving the careening cove, Mr. Hill, one of the master's mates, was dropped off early in the morning on the north shore near Sydney Cove after taking care of some business in Sydney. The walk to the ship was short, but he was never seen again. Teams were sent out day after day looking for him, but it went on for several days without success. Guns were fired from the Sirius every four hours, day and night, but nothing came of it. He encountered some deadly accident, leaving a wife without any hope of seeing him return to her and taking him away from his friends. He had once before gotten lost, and when his disappearance was confirmed, it was reported that on that fateful morning, as he stepped out of the boat, he said he expected to be lost for a day or two. His prediction was tragically accurate; he lost himself forever, adding to the number of unfortunate souls who had perished in the woods of this country.

On the 11th the Supply sailed for Norfolk Island, having on board provisions and six male and eight female convicts for that colony. She was to stop at Lord Howe Island, to endeavour to procure turtle for this settlement; a supply of which, in its present situation, would have been welcomed, not as a luxury, but as a necessary of life.

On the 11th, the Supply set sail for Norfolk Island with provisions and six male and eight female convicts for that colony. She was scheduled to stop at Lord Howe Island to try to get turtle for this settlement; a supply of which, given its current situation, would have been appreciated not as a luxury, but as a necessity.

The night-watch was found of infinite utility. The commission of crimes, since their institution, had been evidently less frequent, and they were instrumental in bringing forward for punishment several offenders who would otherwise have escaped. The fear and detestation in which they were held by their fellow-prisoners was one proof of their assiduity in searching for offences and in bringing them to light; and it possibly might have been asserted with truth, that many streets in the metropolis of London were not so well guarded and watched as the small, but rising town of Sydney, in New South Wales.

The night-watch proved to be incredibly useful. Since they were established, crimes had clearly become less frequent, and they helped bring several offenders to justice who would have otherwise escaped. The fear and disdain they were held in by other prisoners showed how dedicated they were to uncovering offenses and bringing them to light; it could even be truthfully said that many streets in the bustling metropolis of London were not as well protected and monitored as the small, yet growing town of Sydney in New South Wales.

By their activity, a woman (a female convict of the name of Ann Davis alias Judith Jones), was apprehended for breaking into the house of Robert Sidaway (a convict) in the daytime, and stealing several articles of wearing apparel thereout. The criminal court being assembled, she was tried and found guilty. On receiving sentence to die, she pleaded being quick with child; but twelve of the discreetest women among the convicts, all of whom had been mothers of children, being impanelled as a jury of matrons, they pronounced that she was not pregnant; on which she was executed the Monday following, acknowledging at that fatal moment which generally gives birth and utterance to truth, that she was about to suffer justly, and that an attempt which she made, when put on her defence, to criminate another person (a woman whose character was so notorious that she hoped to establish her own credit and innocence upon her infamy), as well as her plea of pregnancy, were advanced merely for the purpose of saving her life. She died generally reviled and unpitied by the people of her own description.

By her actions, a woman (a female convict named Ann Davis, also known as Judith Jones) was caught breaking into the house of Robert Sidaway (also a convict) during the day and stealing several articles of clothing. When the criminal court met, she was tried and found guilty. After being sentenced to death, she claimed to be pregnant. However, twelve of the most sensible women among the convicts, all of whom had been mothers, were selected as a jury of matrons and concluded that she was not actually pregnant. As a result, she was executed the following Monday, admitting at that tragic moment, which often reveals the truth, that she was about to receive just punishment. She acknowledged that her attempt to accuse another woman, whose reputation was so scandalous that she thought it would help her own reputation and innocence through that person's infamy, along with her claim of pregnancy, were only made to save her life. She died widely criticized and without sympathy from people of her own kind.

The summer was observed to be the chief season of fish. A fishing-boat belonging to the colony had so many fish in the seine, that had it not burst at the moment of landing, it was imagined that a sufficiency would have been taken to have served the settlement for a day; as it was, a very considerable quantity was brought in; and not long after a boat belonging to the Sirius caught forty-seven of the large fish which obtained among us the appellation of Light Horse Men, from the peculiar conformation of the bone of the head, which gave the fish the appearance of having on a light-horse man's helmet.

The summer was recognized as the main season for fishing. A fishing boat from the colony caught so many fish in the net that, if it hadn’t burst just as they were landing, it was believed they would have gathered enough to feed the settlement for a day. As it turned out, a significant amount was brought in anyway, and not long after, a boat from the Sirius caught forty-seven of the large fish that we called Light Horse Men, due to the unique shape of their skull bones that made them look like they were wearing a light-horseman’s helmet.

The governor, after the death of the native who was carried off by the smallpox in May last, never had lost sight of a determination to procure another the first favourable opportunity. A boat had several times gone down the harbour for that purpose; but without succeeding, until the 25th of this month, when the first lieutenant of the Sirius, accompanied by the master, fortunately secured two natives, both men, and brought them up to the settlement without any accident. Being well known to the children, through their means every assurance was given them of their perfect safety in our possession. They were taken up to the governor's, the place intended for their future residence, where such restraint was laid upon their persons as was judged requisite for their security.

The governor, after the death of the native who had been taken by smallpox last May, remained focused on the goal of finding another native at the first good opportunity. A boat had gone down the harbor several times for this purpose; however, it was unsuccessful until the 25th of this month, when the first lieutenant of the Sirius, along with the master, fortunately captured two natives, both men, and brought them back to the settlement safely. Since the children knew them well, they provided every assurance that they would be completely safe in our care. They were taken to the governor's place, which was intended for their future home, where some restrictions were placed on them for their own security.

The assurances of safety which were given them, and the steps which were taken to keep them in a state of security, were not perfectly satisfactory to the elder of the two; and he secretly determined to take the first opportunity which offered of giving his attendants no further trouble upon his account. The negligence of his keeper very soon gave him the opportunity he desired; and he made his escape, taking with him into the woods the fetter which had been rivetted to his ankle, and which every one, who knew the circumstance, imagined he would never be able to remove. His companion would have joined him in his flight, but fear detained him a few minutes too late, and he was seized while tremblingly alive to the joyful prospect of escaping.

The promises of safety that were made to them, and the actions taken to keep them secure, didn’t fully satisfy the older of the two; and he secretly decided to take the first chance he got to stop causing his attendants any more trouble. The carelessness of his guard quickly gave him the chance he wanted; he escaped, taking with him the shackle that had been locked to his ankle, which everyone who knew the situation thought he would never be able to get rid of. His companion would have joined him in his escape, but fear held him back for just a few minutes too long, and he was caught while anxiously aware of the exciting possibility of getting away.

During the month of November a brick house was begun on the east side of the cove for the judge-advocate. The huts which were got up on our first landing were slight and temporary; every shower of rain washed a portion of the clay from between the interstices of the cabbage-tree of which they were constructed; their covering was never tight; their size was necessarily small and inconvenient; and although we had not hitherto been so fortunate as to discover limestone any where near the settlement, yet to occupy a brick house put together with mortar formed of the clay of the country, and covered with tiles, became in point of comparative comfort and convenience an object of some importance.

During November, construction began on a brick house on the east side of the cove for the judge-advocate. The huts that were built when we first arrived were flimsy and temporary; every rain shower washed away some of the clay from between the cabbage-tree materials they were made from; their covering was always loose; their size was necessarily small and inconvenient; and although we hadn’t been lucky enough to find limestone anywhere near the settlement, being able to occupy a brick house made with mortar from local clay and topped with tiles became quite important in terms of comfort and convenience.

December.] Among the various business which came before the magistrates at their weekly meetings, was one which occupied much of their time and attention. The convicts who were employed about the provision store informed the commissary, by letter, that from certain circumstances, they had reason to accuse Mr. Zachariah Clark, his assistant, of embezzling the public provisions. A complaint of such a nature, as well on account of its importance to the settlement, as of its consequence to the person accused, called for an immediate enquiry; and the judge-advocate and Captain Hunter lost no time in bringing forward the necessary investigation. The convicts charged Mr. Clark with having made at different times, and applied to his own use, a considerable over-draught of every species of provisions, and of the liquor which was in store. A dread of these circumstances being one day discovered by others, when the blame of concealment might involve them in a suspicion of participation, induced them to step forward with the charge. The suspicious appearances, however, were accounted for by Mr. Clark much to the satisfaction of the magistrates under whose consideration they came. He stated, that expecting to be employed in this country, he had brought out with him large quantities of provisions, wine, rum, draught and bottled porter, all of which he generally kept at the store; that when parties have applied to him for provisions or spirits at an hour when the store was shut, he had frequently supplied them from his own case, or stock which he had for present use in his tent or in his house, and afterwards repaid himself from the store; and that being ill with the scurvy for several months after his arrival, he did not use any salt provisions, which gave him a considerable credit for such articles at the store: from all which circumstances the convicts who accused him might, as they were unknown to them, be induced to imagine that he was taking up more than his ration from time to time.

December. Among the various cases that came before the magistrates at their weekly meetings, one took up a lot of their time and attention. The convicts who worked at the provision store wrote to the commissary, claiming they had reasons to accuse Mr. Zachariah Clark and his assistant of stealing public provisions. This serious complaint, due to its importance for the settlement and the implications for the accused, called for an immediate investigation. The judge-advocate and Captain Hunter quickly initiated the necessary inquiry. The convicts accused Mr. Clark of having repeatedly taken and used significant amounts of various provisions and liquor from the store for himself. They decided to come forward with their accusation out of fear that their involvement might be suspected if these actions were discovered later. However, Mr. Clark explained the suspicious situation to the satisfaction of the magistrates. He stated that since he expected to be employed in this country, he had brought large quantities of provisions, wine, rum, and both draught and bottled porter, which he usually kept at the store. He mentioned that when people asked him for provisions or spirits after store hours, he often supplied them from his personal stock that he kept in his tent or house and later reimbursed himself from the store. He also explained that he had been ill with scurvy for several months after arriving, preventing him from consuming salt provisions, which made him appear to have a significant amount of credit for such items at the store. Because the convicts were unaware of these circumstances, they might have mistakenly believed he was taking more than his ration occasionally.

With Mr. Clark's ample and public acquittal from this accusation, a commendation equally public was given to the convicts, who, noticing the apparent over-draught of spirits and provisions, and ignorant at the same time of the causes which occasioned it, had taken measures to have it explained.

With Mr. Clark's full and public acquittal from this accusation, a similarly public praise was given to the convicts, who, noticing the obvious shortage of supplies and unaware of the reasons behind it, took steps to have it clarified.

From the peculiarity of our situation, there was a sort of sacredness about our store; and its preservation pure and undefiled was deemed as necessary as the chastity of Caesar's wife. With us, it would not bear even suspicion.

From the uniqueness of our situation, there was a sense of sanctity about our store; keeping it pure and untainted was considered as important as the fidelity of Caesar's wife. With us, it wouldn't even tolerate suspicion.

In the course of this month the harvest was got in; the ground in cultivation at Rose Hill produced upwards of two hundred bushels Of wheat, about thirty-five bushels of barley, and a small quantity of oats and Indian corn; all of which was intended to be reserved for feed. At Sydney, the spot of ground called the Governor's Farm had been sown only with barley, and produced about twenty-five bushels.

During this month, the harvest was collected; the land cultivated at Rose Hill produced over two hundred bushels of wheat, about thirty-five bushels of barley, and a small amount of oats and corn, all meant to be set aside for feed. At Sydney, the area known as the Governor's Farm was planted only with barley and yielded about twenty-five bushels.

A knowledge of the interior parts of this extensive country was anxiously desired by every one; but the difficulty of attaining it, and the various employments in which we had all been necessarily engaged, had hitherto prevented any material researches being made. The governor had penetrated to the westward as far as Richmond Hill, perhaps between fifty and sixty miles inland; but beyond that distance all was a blank. Early in this month Lieutenant Dawes with a small party, taking with them just as much provisions as they could conveniently carry, set off on an attempt to reach the western mountains by and from the banks of the fresh water river, first seen, some time since, by Captain Tench, and supposed to be a branch of the Hawkesbury. From this excursion he returned on the ninth day, without accomplishing his design, meeting with nothing, after quitting the river, but ravines that were nearly inaccessible. He had, notwithstanding the danger and difficulty of getting on through such a country, reached within eleven miles of the mountains, by computation. During his toilsome march he met with nothing very remarkable, except the impressions of the cloven feet of an animal differing from other cloven feet by the great width of the division in each. He was not fortunate enough to see the animal that had made them.

A lot of people really wanted to know more about the interior of this vast country, but the challenges in finding out and the various tasks we had to focus on prevented us from conducting any real research. The governor had explored westward as far as Richmond Hill, which is maybe fifty to sixty miles inland, but everything beyond that was unknown. Earlier this month, Lieutenant Dawes set out with a small group, taking just enough supplies to carry comfortably, in an effort to reach the western mountains from the banks of the freshwater river first seen some time ago by Captain Tench, thought to be a branch of the Hawkesbury. He returned on the ninth day without achieving his goal, encountering nothing but nearly impassable ravines after leaving the river. Despite the risks and difficulties of traveling through such terrain, he managed to get within eleven miles of the mountains, according to his calculations. During his challenging journey, he didn’t come across anything particularly remarkable, except for the footprints of a cloven-hoofed animal that were different from others due to the unusually wide split in each hoof. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to see the animal that had made them.

In this journey Lieutenant Dawes's line of march, unfortunately and unpleasantly for him, happened to lie, nearly from his setting out, across a line of high and steep rocky precipices, which required much caution in descending, as well as labour in ascending. Perhaps an open country, which might have led him readily and conveniently to the point he proposed to attain, was lying at no great distance from him either to his right or left. To seek for that, however, might have required more time than his stock of provisions would have admitted; and he was compelled to return through the same unprofitable country which he had passed.

In this journey, Lieutenant Dawes's path, unfortunately and unpleasantly for him, happened to lead almost from the start across a line of high and steep rocky cliffs that required a lot of caution to descend and effort to ascend. There may have been open land nearby that could have easily and conveniently taken him to his intended destination, either to his right or left. However, searching for that might have taken more time than the limited provisions he had could allow, so he was forced to go back through the same unproductive terrain he had already traversed.

On the 21st, between ten and eleven o'clock at night, the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent six weeks within a day. From thence Lieutenant King wrote that he expected his harvest would produce from four to six months flour for all his inhabitants, exclusive of a reserve of double feed for twenty acres of ground. Beside this promising appearance, he had ten acres in cultivation with Indian corn, which looked very well. His gardens had suffered much by the grub worm and from a want of rain, of which they had had scarcely any since the 23rd of September last. The ground which was cleared for the crown amounted to about twenty-eight acres, and he was busied in preparations for building a redoubt on an eminence named by him Mount George.

On the 21st, between ten and eleven o'clock at night, the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been gone for just over six weeks. From there, Lieutenant King wrote that he expected his harvest would provide four to six months' worth of flour for all his residents, plus a backup supply for twenty acres of land. In addition to this promising outlook, he had ten acres growing Indian corn, which looked great. His gardens suffered significantly from grub worms and a lack of rain, with hardly any since September 23rd. The cleared land designated for the crown totaled about twenty-eight acres, and he was busy preparing to build a fort on a hill he named Mount George.

The Supply, in her visit at Lord Howe Island, turned eighteen turtle; several of which unluckily dying before she reached Norfolk Island, she could leave only four there, and but three survived the short voyage thence to this place.

The Supply, during her visit to Lord Howe Island, caught eighteen turtles; unfortunately, several of them died before she got to Norfolk Island, so she could only leave four there, and only three survived the short trip from there to this place.

Several thefts having been lately committed by the convicts, and the offenders discovered by the vigilance of the members of our new police, several of them were tried before the criminal court of juidicature. Caesar the black, whose situation on Garden Island had been some time back rendered more eligible, by being permitted to work without irons, found means to make his escape, with a mind insensible alike to kindness and to punishment, taking with him a canoe which lay there for the convenience of the other people employed on the island, together with a week's provisions belonging to them; and in a visit which he made them a few nights after in his canoe, he took off an iron pot, a musket, and some ammunition.

Several thefts have recently been committed by the convicts, and the offenders were caught thanks to the vigilance of our new police. Many of them were tried in the criminal court. Caesar the black, whose situation on Garden Island had recently improved by being allowed to work without shackles, found a way to escape, showing no awareness of kindness or punishment. He took a canoe that was there for the convenience of others working on the island, along with a week's worth of their provisions. In a visit he made a few nights later in his canoe, he also took an iron pot, a musket, and some ammunition.

The working convicts at Sydney had lately been principally employed in constructing two convenient kitchens and ovens for the use of the detachment, adjoining to the quarters; building a house for the judge-advocate; forming roads either in or leading to the town; and removing the provisions from the old thatched storehouse to that in the marine quarters, which, by being covered in with tiles, was not so liable to an accident by fire, nor likely to prove so great an harbour for rats, to guard against whom it had become necessary to take as many precautions as against any other enemy. They, however, in defiance of every care which was taken to shut them out, when the provisions were removed, found means, by working under ground, to get in; and as it was now a matter of much moment to preserve every ounce of provisions that belonged to us, they were all taken out, and restowed with an attention suitable to their important value.

The working convicts in Sydney had recently been mainly focused on building two practical kitchens and ovens for the use of the detachment next to the quarters; constructing a house for the judge-advocate; creating roads within or leading to the town; and moving supplies from the old thatched storehouse to the one in the marine quarters, which, being tiled, was less likely to catch fire and not as prone to becoming a big hiding place for rats. To protect against them, it was necessary to take as many precautions as against any other threat. However, despite all the efforts made to keep them out, when the supplies were removed, they managed to find a way in by digging underground. Since it was crucial to preserve every ounce of our supplies, everything was taken out and restocked with the care that reflected their significant value.

At Rose Hill, where as yet there was not any night-watch established, petty thefts and depredations were frequently committed, particularly on the wheat as it ripened. The bakehouse also was robbed of a quantity of flour by a person unknown. These offences were generally attributed to the reduction which had taken place in the ration of provisions; and every one dreaded how much the commission of them might be increased, if accident or delay should render a still greater reduction necessary.

At Rose Hill, where there wasn't a night watch set up yet, small thefts and damages happened often, especially as the wheat began to ripen. The bakehouse was also robbed of some flour by an unknown person. These crimes were usually blamed on the cut in the food rations, and everyone feared how much worse things might get if an accident or delay forced an even bigger reduction.

Mr. Dodd, the superintendant at that settlement, a few days before Christmas, cut and sent down a cabbage which weighed twenty-six pounds. The other vegetables productions of his garden, which was by no means a rich mould, were plentiful and luxuriant.

Mr. Dodd, the superintendent at that settlement, a few days before Christmas, cut and sent down a cabbage that weighed twenty-six pounds. The other vegetables from his garden, which was by no means rich soil, were abundant and thriving.

Some people who had been out with a gun from Rose Hill brought in with them, on their return, a tinder-box, to which chance conducted them in a thick brush distinguished by the name of the New Brush, about six miles from the settlement. This article was known to have belonged to the two unfortunate soldiers who had been unaccounted for since last April, and who, in great probability, found there a miserable period to their existence. They also picked up in the same brush a piece of linen, said to have formed part of a petticoat which belonged to Anne Smith, a female convict who absconded a few days after our landing in the country. This might have been carried thither and dropped by some natives in their way through the brush; but it gave a strong colour to the supposition of her having likewise perished, by some means or other, in the woods.

Some people who had gone out with a gun from Rose Hill came back with a tinderbox they found by chance in a dense area called the New Brush, about six miles from the settlement. This item was known to have belonged to the two unfortunate soldiers who had been missing since last April and likely met a sad end there. They also found a piece of linen in the same area, which was said to have been part of a petticoat that belonged to Anne Smith, a female convict who escaped a few days after we arrived in the country. This could have been dropped by some locals passing through the brush, but it strongly suggested that she might have also died in the woods under some circumstances.

CHAPTER IX

A convict becomes a free settler
A nice fantasy
Abundant supply of fish
Caesar's story
Another convict injured by the locals
The Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
A large group of settlers sent there on the Sirius and Supply
Heavy rains
Increasing scarcity of food in a worrying way
Lieutenant Maxwell's madness
News of the loss of the Sirius comes in
Food rations are cut even more
The Supply is sent to Batavia for help
Robberies happening often and boldly
An elderly man dies from starvation
Rose Hill
Salt and fishing lines are made
The native escapes
Transactions

1790.]

1790.

January.] Early in the new year the Supply sailed again for Norfolk Island with twenty-two male and two female convicts, and one child; Lieutenant King having in his last letters intimated, that he could very well find employment for a greater number of people than he then had under his orders. With those convicts and some stores she sailed on the 7th, and on her return was to touch at Lord Howe island to procure turtle.

January.] Early in the new year, the Supply set sail again for Norfolk Island with twenty-two men, two women convicts, and one child. Lieutenant King, in his last letters, indicated that he could easily find work for more people than he currently had under his command. With those convicts and some supplies, she departed on the 7th, and on her way back, she was to stop at Lord Howe Island to get some turtles.

Of the convicts the period of whose sentences of transportation had expired, and of whom mention was made in the transactions of July last, one, who signified a wish of becoming a settler, had been sent up to Rose Hill by the governor; where his excellency, having only waited to learn with certainty that he had become a free man before he gave him a grant of land, caused two acres of ground to be cleared of the timber which stood on them, and a small hut to be built for him. This man had been bred to the business of a farmer, and during his residence in this country had shown a strong inclination to be industrious, and to return to honest habits and pursuits. Rewarding him, therefore, was but holding out encouragement to such good dispositions. The governor had, however, another object in view, beside a wish to hold him up as a deserving character: he was desirous of trying, by his means, in what time an industrious active man, with certain assistance, would be enabled to support himself in this country as a settler; and for that purpose, in addition to what he caused to be done for him at first, he furnished him with the tools and implements of husbandry necessary for cultivating his ground, with a proportion of grain to sow it, and a small quantity of live stock to begin with. He took possession of his ground the 21st of November 1789, and under some disadvantages. An opinion had prevailed, and had been pretty generally disseminated, that a man could not live in this country; and in addition to this discouragement, although he still received a ration from the public store, yet it was not a ration that bore any proportion to the labour which his situation required from him. The man himself, however, resolved to be industrious, and to surmount as well as he was able whatever difficulties might lie in his way.

Of the convicts whose sentences of transportation had ended, and who were mentioned in the reports from July, one expressed a desire to become a settler and was sent to Rose Hill by the governor. His excellency, having waited to confirm that he was indeed a free man, granted him land. He had two acres cleared of timber and arranged for a small hut to be built for him. This man had been raised as a farmer, and during his time in this country, he showed a strong desire to be hardworking and to return to honest ways. Therefore, rewarding him was simply promoting such good behavior. However, the governor had another goal beyond just showcasing him as a deserving person: he wanted to see how quickly a hardworking and active man could support himself as a settler with some assistance. To that end, in addition to the initial help he received, the governor provided him with farming tools needed for cultivating his land, a portion of grain to plant, and a small number of livestock to start with. He took possession of his land on November 21, 1789, despite facing challenges. There was a widespread belief that a person could not survive in this country. Furthermore, although he still received rations from the public store, they did not adequately reflect the labor required of him. Nonetheless, the man was determined to work hard and overcome any obstacles he faced.

The flour which had been brought from England did not serve much beyond the beginning of this month, and that imported from the Cape now supplied its place. Every one began to look forward with much anxiety to the arrival of supplies from England; and as it was reasonable to conclude that every day might bring them on the coast, Captain Hunter, accompanied by Mr. Worgan, the surgeon of the Sirius, and Mr. White, with six or eight seamen, having chosen a spot proper for their purpose, erected a flagstaff on the South Head of this harbour, whence, on the appearance of a ship in the offing, a signal might be made, as well to convey the wished-for information to the settlement, as to serve as a mark for the stranger. An hut was built for their accommodation, and this little establishment was of such importance, that our walks were daily directed to a spot whence it could be seen; thus fondly indulging the delusion, that the very circumstance of looking out for a sail would bring one into view.

The flour that had come from England didn't last much beyond the start of this month, and now the supply from the Cape took its place. Everyone started to anxiously anticipate the arrival of supplies from England; since it was reasonable to think that any day could bring them to the coast, Captain Hunter, along with Mr. Worgan, the surgeon of the Sirius, and Mr. White, along with six or eight seamen, picked a good spot for their purpose and set up a flagpole on the South Head of the harbor. From there, when a ship appeared in the distance, they could signal to both share the much-anticipated news with the settlement and act as a marker for the ship. A hut was built for their comfort, and this little setup was so significant that our daily walks were aimed at the spot where it could be seen, happily indulging the illusion that simply looking for a sail would help bring one into sight.

A sufficient quantity of fish having been taken one night in this month, to admit the serving of two pounds to each man, woman, and child belonging to the detachment, the governor directed, that a boat should in future be employed three times in the week to fish for the public; and that the whole quantity caught should be issued at the above rate to every person in turn. This allowance was in addition to the ration of provisions; and was received with much satisfaction several times during the month.

A good amount of fish was caught one night this month, allowing for two pounds to be given to each man, woman, and child in the group. The governor decided that a boat would be used three times a week to catch fish for the community, and that the total catch would be distributed at that rate to everyone in turn. This allocation was in addition to the regular food rations and was received with great satisfaction several times throughout the month.

Caesar, after his escape from and subsequent visit at Garden Island, found his way up to Rose Hill, whence he was brought on the 30th, very much wounded by some natives whom he had met with in the woods. Being fearful of severe punishment for some of his late offences, he reported, on being brought in, that he had fallen in with our cattle which had been so long lost; that they were increased by two calves; that they seemed to be under the care of eight or ten natives, who attended them closely while they grazed; and that, on his attempting to drive the cattle before him, he was wounded by another party of the natives. The circumstance of his being wounded was the only part of his story that met with any credit, and that could not well be contradicted, as he had several spear wounds about him in different parts of his body; but every thing else was looked upon as a fabrication (and that not well contrived) to avert the lash which he knew hung over him. He was well known to have as small a share of veracity as of honesty. His wounds however requiring care and rest, he was secured, and placed under the surgeon's care at the hospital.

Caesar, after escaping and visiting Garden Island, made his way to Rose Hill, where he was brought in on the 30th, heavily wounded by some natives he encountered in the woods. Fearing harsh punishment for his recent misdeeds, he claimed that he had found our long-lost cattle; that they had increased by two calves; that they seemed to be looked after by eight or ten natives who watched them closely while they grazed; and that, when he tried to drive the cattle away, he was attacked by another group of natives. The fact that he was wounded was the only part of his story that people believed, and that couldn’t really be disputed since he had several spear wounds all over his body; but everything else was seen as a lie (and a poorly thought-out one) to escape the punishment he knew awaited him. He was notoriously lacking in honesty as well as truthfulness. However, since his wounds needed care and rest, he was secured and placed under the surgeon's care at the hospital.

Information was also received at this time from Rose Hill, that a convict who had been employed to strike the sting ray, with another, on the flats, having gone on shore, engaged in some quarrel with the natives, who took all his clothes from him, severely wounded, and would inevitably have killed him, but for the humane, friendly, and disinterested interference of one of their own women, who happened to be present. This accident, and many others of the same nature, could not have happened, had the orders which he had received, not to land upon any account, been attended to.

Information was also received at this time from Rose Hill that a convict, who had been working with another to catch a stingray on the flats, went ashore and got into a fight with the locals. They stripped him of all his clothes and seriously injured him, and he would have been killed if it hadn’t been for the compassionate, friendly, and selfless intervention of one of their women who happened to be there. This incident, along with many others like it, could have been avoided if the orders he received not to go ashore under any circumstances had been followed.

The bricklayers, having finished the judge-advocate's house, were employed in building a dispensary on the west side contiguous to the hospital, the medicines and chirurgical instruments being much exposed to damps in the place where they had hitherto been necessarily kept.

The bricklayers, having completed the judge-advocate's house, were busy constructing a dispensary on the west side next to the hospital, as the medicines and surgical instruments were quite vulnerable to moisture in the location where they had previously been stored.

Garden robberies were frequent, notwithstanding the utmost care and vigilance were exerted to prevent them. A rainy tempestuous night always afforded a cloak for the thief, and was generally followed in the morning by some one complaining of his or her garden having been stripped of all its produce.

Garden thefts were common, even with the best efforts to stop them. A stormy, rainy night always provided cover for the thief, and usually the next morning, someone would be complaining that their garden had been cleaned out of all its fruits and vegetables.

February.] The first signal from the flagstaff at the South Head was displayed on the 10th of February; and though every imagination first turned toward the expected stranger, yet happening about the time at which the Supply was expected from Norfolk Island, conjecture soon fixed on the right object; and the temporary suspence was put an end to, by word being brought up to the settlement, that the Supply, unable to get into Port Jackson, had borne up for Botany Bay, in which harbour she anchored in the dusk of the evening. The next morning the letters which she had brought were received. Lieutenant King wrote, that his people continued healthy, and his settlement went on well. His wheat had returned twenty fold, notwithstanding he had had much dry weather. He had relinquished his intention of throwing up a redoubt on Mount George; but, instead of that work, had employed his people in constructing a stockade of piles round his house, inclosing an oblong square of one hundred feet by one hundred and forty, within which he purposed erecting storehouses, and a barrack for the military. He stated, that the convicts under his orders had in general very good gardens, and that many of them would have a very large produce of Indian corn.

February.] The first signal from the flagstaff at South Head was displayed on February 10th; and even though everyone initially thought it was the expected ship, it coincided with the arrival of the Supply from Norfolk Island, so speculation quickly focused on the right ship. The uncertainty ended when word reached the settlement that the Supply, unable to enter Port Jackson, had headed for Botany Bay, where it anchored just before dusk. The next morning, the letters it carried were received. Lieutenant King wrote that his people were still healthy and that his settlement was progressing well. His wheat had yielded twenty times despite a lot of dry weather. He had decided against building a fort on Mount George; instead, he had his people build a stockade of piles around his house, enclosing a rectangular area of one hundred feet by one hundred and forty, within which he planned to build storehouses and a barracks for the military. He mentioned that the convicts under his command generally had very good gardens, and many of them would have a substantial harvest of corn.

The Supply having in her way to Norfolk Island touched at Lord Howe Island, Lieutenant Ball left the gunner and a small party to turn turtle, but they met with no success; so that no dependance was to be placed on that island for any material relief. The gunner examined the island, and found fresh water in cavities, but not in any current.

The Supply, on its way to Norfolk Island, stopped at Lord Howe Island. Lieutenant Ball left the gunner and a small group to try and find provisions, but they were unsuccessful, so there was no reliance on that island for any significant help. The gunner explored the island and found fresh water in some depressions, but there wasn’t any running water.

The Supply could not get round from Botany Bay until the 12th, when she came to anchor in the cove, whence she had been absent just five weeks.

The Supply couldn’t make it back from Botany Bay until the 12th, when she finally dropped anchor in the cove, where she had been gone for just five weeks.

Lieutenant King having constantly written in high terms of the richness of the soil of Norfolk Island, the governor, on comparing the situation of the convicts there and in this settlement, where their gardens had not that fertility to boast of, and where the ration from the store was with too many hastily devoured, and with most derived but an uncertain and scanty aid from any other source, determined, and about the middle of the month announced his determination, to detach thither a large body of convicts, male and female, together with two companies of the marines. Some immediate advantages were expected to be derived from this measure; the garden ground that would be left by those who embarked would be possessed by those who remained, while the former would instantly on their arrival at Norfolk Island participate in the produce of luxuriant gardens, in a more constant supply of fish, and in the assistance that was occasionally obtained from the birds which settled on Mount Pitt.

Lieutenant King had frequently praised the fertile soil of Norfolk Island. After comparing the conditions of the convicts there with those in this settlement, where the gardens weren't as productive and many rations from the store were quickly consumed with limited support from other sources, the governor decided to send a large group of convicts, both male and female, along with two companies of marines, to Norfolk Island. He announced this decision around the middle of the month. Some immediate benefits were expected from this move: the garden land left behind by those who were leaving would be taken over by those staying, while the departing convicts would enjoy the bountiful produce from the flourishing gardens, a more reliable supply of fish, and occasional help from the birds that gathered on Mount Pitt.

At the same time that this intention was made public, the day of their departure was fixed. The whole were to embark on board the Sirius and the Supply in the beginning of the following month, and were, if no ship arrived from England to prevent them, to sail on the 5th. Should, unfortunately, the necessity of adopting the measure then exist, the Sirius was to proceed to China directly from Norfolk Island to procure a supply of provisions for the colony. China was chosen, under an idea that salt provisions were to be obtained there, and that it was preferable to sending to any of the islands in those seas, or to the Cape of Good Hope at this season of the year, when the Sirius and her crew would have had to encounter the cold and boisterous weather of a winter's passage thither.

At the same time this intention was announced, the date for their departure was set. Everyone was to board the Sirius and the Supply in early the following month, and if no ship arrived from England to stop them, they were scheduled to sail on the 5th. If it became necessary, unfortunately, the Sirius would head directly to China from Norfolk Island to obtain provisions for the colony. China was selected with the belief that salt provisions could be acquired there, which was better than sending shipments to any islands in the region or to the Cape of Good Hope at this time of year, when the Sirius and her crew would have to deal with the cold and rough weather of a winter journey.

As the numbers on Norfolk Island would be considerably increased by the arrival of this detachment from hence, the governor judged the presence of Major Ross necessary there, as lieutenant-governor of the territory. Lieutenant King was to be recalled and return to this settlement.

Since the population on Norfolk Island would significantly increase with the arrival of this group, the governor decided that Major Ross needed to be there as the lieutenant-governor of the territory. Lieutenant King would be recalled and return to this settlement.

Preparations were immediately set on foot for the embarkation of the marines and other persons who were to quit this colony. It had been a part of the first determinations on this business, that the Sirius should, as I have mentioned, proceed directly from Norfolk Island on her voyage to China; but Captain Hunter having represented the absolute necessity he should be under of touching somewhere to wood and water, owing to the number he should have on board, that idea was given up, and Captain Hunter was directed to return with the Sirius to this port for the above purposes of wooding and watering. An additional reason offered itself to influence this determination; it was hoped, that before she could return, the arrival of the expected supplies would have rendered the voyage altogether unnecessary; and it was but reasonable to suppose that this would happen. The governor had, in all his dispatches, uniformly declared the strong necessity there was of having at least two years provisions in store for some time to come; and as this information, together with an exact account of the situation of the colony, had been transmitted by seven different conveyances, if only one had arrived safe, it could not reasonably be doubted that supplies would be immediately dispatched. From the length of time too which had elapsed since the departure of the last ships* that sailed from hence direct for England (full fifteen months), it was as reasonable to suppose that they might arrive within the time that the Sirius would be absent.

Preparations were quickly underway for the departure of the marines and others leaving the colony. It had originally been decided that the Sirius would go directly from Norfolk Island to China; however, Captain Hunter pointed out that he needed to stop somewhere to get wood and water, given the number of people on board. That plan was abandoned, and Captain Hunter was instructed to return to this port for those supplies. Another reason influenced this decision: it was hoped that by the time she returned, the expected supplies would have arrived, making the voyage unnecessary. It was reasonable to assume this would happen. The governor had consistently stated in all his messages that there was a pressing need for at least two years’ worth of provisions in storage for the foreseeable future. Since this information had been sent by seven different ships, if just one made it safely, there was no doubt that supplies would be sent right away. Given the long time that had passed since the last ships left for England (a full fifteen months), it was reasonable to think they might arrive while the Sirius was away.

[* The Golden Grove and the Fishburn sailed from this port the 19th of November 1788, intending to make their passage round by Cape Horn, to which the season was most favourable.]

[* The Golden Grove and the Fishburn left this port on November 19, 1788, planning to take their route around Cape Horn, as the season was ideal for it.]

The month passed in the arrangements and preparations requisite on this occasion, to which the weather was extremely unfavourable, heavy rains, with gales of wind, prevailing nearly the whole time. The rain came down in torrents, filling up every trench and cavity which had been dug about the settlement, and causing much damage to the miserable mud tenements which were occupied by the convicts. By these rains, a pit which had been dug for the purpose of procuring clay to plaister the walls of a hut, was filled with water; and a boy upwards of two years of age, belonging to one of the female convicts, falling into it, was drowned. The surgeons tried, but without success, to save his life, using the methods practised by the Humane Society. Yet bad as the weather was, several gardens were robbed, and, as at this time they abounded with melons and pumpkins, they became the object of depredation in common with other productions of the garden.

The month went by with all the arrangements and preparations needed for this occasion, but the weather was really bad, with heavy rain and strong winds almost the entire time. The rain poured down in torrents, filling every trench and hole that had been dug around the settlement, and causing significant damage to the miserable mud houses occupied by the convicts. Because of these rains, a pit dug to collect clay for plastering a hut's walls filled with water, and a boy over two years old, belonging to one of the female convicts, fell in and drowned. The surgeons tried to save his life using methods from the Humane Society, but they were unsuccessful. Despite the terrible weather, several gardens were robbed, and since they were full of melons and pumpkins at that time, they became targets for theft just like other garden produce.

A brick building, fifty-nine feet in front, designed for a guard-house, of which the foundation had been laid a few days before the heavy rains commenced, suffered much by their continuance. The situation of this building was on the east side of the cove, at the upper part, contiguous to the bridge over the run of water, and convenient for detaching assistance to any part of the place where it might be requisite.

A brick building, fifty-nine feet wide, built as a guardhouse, had its foundation laid just before the heavy rains started, which caused a lot of damage. This building was located on the east side of the cove, at the upper end, near the bridge over the stream, making it easy to dispatch help to any part of the area if needed.

On the 1st of March a reduction in the allowance of spirits took place; the half pint per diem, which had hitherto been issued to each man who was entitled to receive it, was to be discontinued, and only the half of that allowance served. Thus was the gradual decrease in our stores followed by a diminution of our daily comforts and necessaries.

On March 1st, the allowance of spirits was reduced; the half pint per diem that was previously given to each eligible man would be stopped, and only half of that allowance would be served. This marked the slow decline of our supplies and a decrease in our daily comforts and necessities.

One immediate consequence, and that an evil one, was the effect of the intended embarkation for Norfolk Island. It being found that great quantities of stock were killed, an order was immediately given to prevent the further destruction of an article so essential in our present situation, until some necessary regulations could be published; but the officers and people who were about to embark were not included in this prohibition. The mention of future regulations in this order instantly begat an opinion among the convicts, that on the departure of the ships all the live stock in the colony would be called in, or that the owners would be deprived of the benefits which might result from the possession of it. Under colour, therefore, of its belonging to those who were exempted in the late order, nearly all the stock in the settlement was in the course of a few nights destroyed; a wound being thereby given to the independence of the colony that could not easily be salved, and whose injurious effects time and much attention alone could remove.

One immediate consequence, and a negative one, was the effect of the planned departure for Norfolk Island. It was found that large amounts of livestock were killed, so an order was quickly issued to stop any further destruction of such an essential resource in our current situation, until some necessary regulations could be established; however, the officers and people who were about to leave were not included in this ban. The mention of future regulations in this order immediately led to speculation among the convicts that once the ships left, all the livestock in the colony would be taken in, or that the owners would lose the benefits of having it. Under the pretense that it belonged to those exempt from the recent order, almost all the livestock in the settlement was destroyed within a few nights, causing a wound to the colony's independence that would not be easily healed and whose damaging effects could only be removed through time and careful attention.

The expected supplies not having arrived, on the 3rd, the two companies of marines with their officers and the colours of the corps embarked on board the Sirius and the Supply. With them also embarked the lieutenant-governor, and Mr. Considen the senior assistant surgeon of the settlement. On the day following, one hundred and sixteen male and sixty-eight female convicts, with twenty-seven children, were put on board; among the male convicts the governor had sent the troublesome and incorrigible Caesar, on whom he had bestowed a pardon. With these also was sent, though of a very different description, a person whose exemplary conduct had raised him from the situation of a convict to the privileges of a free man. John Irving had since our landing in the country been employed as an assistant at the hospital. He was bred a surgeon, and in no instance whatever, since the commission of the offence for which he was transported, had he given cause of complaint. He was now sent to Norfolk Island, to act as an assistant to the medical gentlemen there.

The expected supplies hadn't arrived, so on the 3rd, the two companies of marines, along with their officers and the colors of the corps, boarded the Sirius and the Supply. Also on board were the lieutenant-governor and Mr. Considen, the senior assistant surgeon of the settlement. The next day, one hundred and sixteen male and sixty-eight female convicts, along with twenty-seven children, were loaded on the ships; among the male convicts was the troublesome and incorrigible Caesar, whom the governor had granted a pardon. Alongside him was a very different person whose exemplary behavior had allowed him to move from being a convict to enjoying the privileges of a free man. John Irving had been working as an assistant at the hospital since we landed in the country. He was trained as a surgeon, and since the crime that led to his transportation, he had not caused any complaints. He was now being sent to Norfolk Island to work as an assistant to the medical staff there.

On the 5th the Sirius and the Supply left the cove, but did not get to sea until the following day, when at the close of the evening they were scarcely to be discerned from the South Head. At the little post at this place Captain Hunter left the gunner, a midshipman, and six of the Sirius's people. Mr. Maxwell, one of her lieutenants, having been for a considerable time past in a melancholy and declining way, and his disorder pronounced by the surgeons to be insanity, he was discharged from the ship, and had taken up his residence on shore under the care of the surgeon, with proper people who were left from the ship to attend him. This was the second officer whose situation in the Sirius it became necessary to have filled. Lieutenant King, the commandant of Norfolk Island, had for some time been discharged from the ship's books; and Mr. Newton Fowell, a young gentleman of the Sirius's quarter-deck, being deemed well qualified, was appointed by the governor (as the naval commanding officer) to succeed him. To fill the vacancy occasioned by Mr. Maxwell's unfortunate state of health, Mr. Henry Waterhouse, a young gentleman of promising abilities, was taken from the quarter-deck. Both these appointments were to wait the confirmation of the lords commissioners of the admiralty.

On the 5th, the Sirius and the Supply left the cove, but they didn't make it to sea until the next day. By the end of the evening, they were barely visible from the South Head. At the small post there, Captain Hunter left the gunner, a midshipman, and six crew members from the Sirius. Mr. Maxwell, one of the lieutenants, had been in a sad and declining state for a while, and the surgeons diagnosed him with insanity. He was discharged from the ship and began living on shore under the care of the surgeon, along with some crew members who stayed behind to look after him. This was the second officer position on the Sirius that needed to be filled. Lieutenant King, the commandant of Norfolk Island, had already been discharged from the ship's records. Mr. Newton Fowell, a young man from the Sirius's quarter-deck, was seen as well qualified and was appointed by the governor (the naval commanding officer) to take his place. To fill the vacancy left by Mr. Maxwell’s unfortunate health issues, Mr. Henry Waterhouse, a young man with promising skills, was transferred from the quarter-deck. Both of these appointments were pending confirmation by the lords commissioners of the admiralty.

Immediately after the departure of these ships, the governor directed his attention to the regulation of the people who were left at Sydney, and to the preservation of the stock in the colony. For these purposes, he himself visited the different huts and gardens whose tenants had just quitted them, distributing them to such convicts as were either in miserable hovels, or without any shelter at all. It was true, that by this arrangement the idle found themselves provided for by the labour of many who had been industrious; but they were at the same time assured, that unless they kept in good cultivation the gardens which they were allowed to possess, they would be turned out from the comforts of a good hut, to live under a rock or a tree. That they might have time for this purpose, the afternoon of Wednesday and the whole of Saturday in each week were given to them. Much room was made every where by the numbers who had embarked (in all two hundred and eighty-one persons); the military quarters had a deserted aspect; and the whole settlement appeared as if famine had already thinned it of half its numbers. The little society that was in the place was broken up, and every man seemed left to brood in solitary silence over the dreary prospect before him.

Immediately after these ships left, the governor focused on managing the people who stayed in Sydney and protecting the livestock in the colony. To do this, he personally visited the various huts and gardens that their occupants had just abandoned, handing them over to convicts who were either living in terrible conditions or had no shelter at all. It was true that this arrangement meant that those who were lazy benefited from the hard work of others, but they were warned that if they didn’t take care of the gardens they were given, they would be sent back to live under a rock or a tree. To ensure they had time for this, they were granted Wednesday afternoons and all of Saturday each week. There was a lot of space made available everywhere due to the number of people who had left (two hundred and eighty-one in total); the military quarters looked deserted; and the entire settlement seemed like it had been hit by famine, leaving half its population missing. The small community that remained was shattered, and everyone seemed to be left alone to silently dwell on the bleak future ahead of them.

With respect to the stock, his excellency directed, that no hogs under three months old should be killed, nor were any to be butchered without information being first given at headquarters.

With regard to the livestock, his excellency instructed that no pigs under three months old should be slaughtered, and that no animals should be butchered without prior notice being given to headquarters.

Those who bred poultry were left at liberty to dispose of it in such manner as they thought proper; and the commissary was directed to purchase for the use of the hospital such live stock as the owners were desirous of selling, complying with the above regulations, and receiving one shilling a pound as the price.

Those who raised poultry were free to sell it however they saw fit; and the commissary was instructed to buy any livestock that the owners wanted to sell for the hospital's use, adhering to the above rules, and paying one shilling per pound as the price.

Some provisions which yet remained in the old large thatched store were removed for greater security into the store in the marine quarters. It was strongly suspected, that an attempt had been made to obtain some part of these provisions in the night; and some convicts were examined before the judge-advocate on suspicion of having taken some flour from the store; but nothing appeared that could materially affect them. The provisions, when all collected together under one roof and into one view, afforded but a melancholy reflection; it was well that we had even them.

Some supplies that were still in the old large thatched store were moved for better security to the store in the marine quarters. There was a strong suspicion that an attempt had been made to steal some of these supplies during the night, and some convicts were questioned before the judge-advocate on suspicion of having taken flour from the store; however, nothing significant came to light that could implicate them. When all the supplies were gathered together in one place and visible, it offered a sad reflection; it was fortunate that we even had them.

On the 27th of the month, the long-expected signal not having been displayed, it became necessary to put the colony upon a still shorter ration of provisions. It was a painful but a necessary duty. The governor directed that the provisions should in future be served daily; for which purpose the store was to be opened from one to three in the afternoon. The ration for the week was to consist of four pounds of flour, two pounds and a half of pork, and one pound and a half of rice, and these were to be issued to every person in the settlement without distinction; but as the public labour must naturally be affected by this reduction, the working hours were in future to be from sunrise, with a small interval for breakfast, until one o'clock: the afternoons were to be allowed the people to receive their provisions and work in their gardens. These alterations in the ration and in the hours of labour, however, were not to commence until the 1st of the following month.

On the 27th of the month, since the long-expected signal hadn’t been shown, it became necessary to put the colony on an even shorter food supply. It was a painful but necessary duty. The governor ordered that the provisions would now be distributed daily; for this, the store would be open from one to three in the afternoon. The weekly ration would consist of four pounds of flour, two and a half pounds of pork, and one and a half pounds of rice, issued to everyone in the settlement without exception; however, since public work would naturally be affected by this cut, working hours would now be from sunrise, with a short break for breakfast, until one o'clock: the afternoons were to be given to the people to collect their provisions and tend to their gardens. These changes in the rations and working hours would not take effect until the 1st of the following month.

At Rose Hill similar regulations were made by the governor. The garden ground was enlarged; those who were in bad huts were placed in better; and every thing was said that could stimulate them to be industrious. This, with a few exceptions, appeared to be the principal labour both there and at Sydney; and the nightwatch were called upon by the common interest to be more than ever active and sedulous in their efforts to protect public and private property; for robberies of gardens and houses were daily and nightly committed. Damage was also received from the little stock which remained alive; the owners, not having wherewith to feed them, were obliged to turn them loose to browse among the grass and shrubs, or turn up the ground for the fern-root; and as they wandered without any one to prevent their doing mischief, they but too often found an easy passage over fences and through barriers which were now grown weak and perishing. It was however ordered, that the stock should be kept up during the night, and every damage that could be proved to have been received during that time was to be made good by the owners of the stock that might be caught trespassing; or the animals themselves were to be forfeited.

At Rose Hill, similar rules were implemented by the governor. The garden area was expanded; those living in poor huts were moved to better accommodations; and everything was said to encourage them to work hard. This, with a few exceptions, seemed to be the main focus both there and in Sydney. The night watch was urged by the community to be more vigilant and diligent in their efforts to protect public and private property, as thefts from gardens and homes occurred both day and night. There was also damage caused by the few animals that were still alive; owners, lacking food for them, had to let them roam to eat grass and shrubs or dig up fern roots. Since these animals wandered without supervision, they frequently found easy ways over weak fences and barriers. However, it was mandated that the animals be kept in at night, and any damage proven to occur during that time had to be compensated by the owners of any animals caught trespassing, or the animals would be forfeited.

The carpenters were employed in preparing a roof for a new storehouse, those which were first erected being now decaying, and having been always insecure. It was never expected to get up a building of one hundred feet in front, which this was designed to be, upon so reduced a ration as the present; but while the people did labour, it was proper to turn that little labour to the public account.

The carpenters were busy getting a roof ready for a new storehouse, as the ones built first were now falling apart and had always been unstable. It was never anticipated to construct a building with a front of one hundred feet, as this one was intended to be, on such a limited budget as the current one; but since the people were working, it made sense to put their efforts to good use for the community.

The working gangs being now so much reduced by the late embarkation, the hoy was employed in bringing the timber necessary for this building from the coves where it was cut down and deposited for that purpose. This vessel, when unemployed for public services, was given to the officers, and by them sent down the harbour to procure cabbage-tree for their stock, in the preservation and maintenance of which every one felt an immediate and anxious concern.

The work crews had shrunk significantly due to the recent departures, so the hoy was used to transport the timber needed for this building from the coves where it was cut and stored for that purpose. When not used for public services, this vessel was given to the officers, who sent it down the harbor to gather cabbage-tree for their livestock, which everyone was immediately and anxiously concerned about preserving and maintaining.

The weather had been very wet during this month; torrents of rain again laid every place under water; many little habitations, which had withstood the inundations of the last month, now suffered considerably; several chimneys fell in; but this was owing, perhaps, as much to their being built by job or taskwork (which the workmen hurried over in general to get a day or two to themselves) as to the heavy rains.

The weather had been really rainy this month; heavy downpours flooded everywhere again; many small homes that had survived last month’s floods now faced serious damage; several chimneys collapsed; but this was likely due, in part, to them being built quickly by workers who rushed through the job to have a day or two off, as much as it was due to the heavy rains.

April.] The reduced ration and the change in the working hours commenced, as was directed, on the 1st of this month; much time was not consumed at the store, and the people went away to dress the scanty allowance which they had received.

April.] The smaller ration and the shift in working hours started, as instructed, on the 1st of this month; not much time was spent at the store, and the people left to prepare the meager portion they had received.

Attention to our religious duties was never omitted. Divine service was performed in one of our emptied storehouses on the morning of the next day, being Good Friday; and the convicts were recommended to employ the remainder of it in their gardens. But, notwithstanding the evident necessity that existed for every man's endeavouring to assist himself, very few were observed to be so profitably occupied.

Attention to our religious duties was never overlooked. A divine service was held in one of our empty storehouses on the morning of the next day, which was Good Friday; and the convicts were encouraged to spend the rest of the day working in their gardens. However, despite the clear need for everyone to try to help themselves, very few were seen actually taking on that productive work.

As every saving that could be made in the article of provisions was of consequence in the present situation of the stores, it was directed on the 3rd, that such fish as should in future be taken by the public boats should be issued at the store, in the proportion of ten pounds of fish to two pounds and a half of pork; and one hundred and fifty pounds of fish, which had been brought up before the issuing of provisions commenced on that day, were served out agreeable to that order.

As every savings in food was important given the current state of the supplies, it was decided on the 3rd that any fish caught by the public boats would be distributed at the store in the ratio of ten pounds of fish for every two and a half pounds of pork. Additionally, one hundred and fifty pounds of fish, which had been brought in before the distribution of provisions started that day, were handed out according to that directive.

Mr. Maxwell, whose disorder at times admitted of his going out alone, was fortunately brought up from the lower part of the harbour, where he had passed nearly two days, without sustenance, in rowing from one side to the other, in a small boat by himself. He was noticed by a sergeant who had been fishing, and who observed him rowing under the dangerous rocks of the middle-head, where he must soon have been dashed to pieces, but for his fortunate interposition. After this escape he was more narrowly watched.

Mr. Maxwell, whose condition sometimes allowed him to go out alone, was fortunately found in the lower part of the harbor, where he had spent nearly two days without food, rowing back and forth in a small boat by himself. A sergeant who had been fishing noticed him and saw him rowing dangerously close to the rocks at the middle head, where he would have been crushed soon if the sergeant hadn’t stepped in. After this close call, he was watched more closely.

While occupied in listening to the tale, of his distresses, the Supply returned from Norfolk Island, with an account that was of itself almost sufficient to have deranged the strongest intellect among us. A load of accumulated evils seemed bursting at once upon our heads. The ships that were expected with supplies were still to be anxiously looked for; and the Sirius, which was to have gone in quest of relief to our distresses, was lost upon the reef at Norfolk Island, on the 19th of last month. This was a blow which, as it was unexpected, fell with increased weight, and on every one the whole weight seemed to have fallen.

While we were listening to his story of hardships, the Supply came back from Norfolk Island with news that was nearly enough to drive the strongest among us mad. A wave of accumulated troubles seemed to crash down on us all at once. The ships we were waiting for to bring supplies were still anxiously anticipated, and the Sirius, which was supposed to bring help for our struggles, had run aground on a reef at Norfolk Island on the 19th of last month. This was an unexpected blow that hit us even harder, and it felt like the entire burden had fallen on each of us.

This untoward accident happened in the following manner:

This unfortunate incident occurred as follows:

Captain Hunter was extremely fortunate in having a short passage hence to Norfolk Island, arriving there in seven days after he sailed. The soldiers, and a considerable part of the convicts, were immediately landed in Cascade Bay, which happened at the time to be the leeward side of the island. Bad weather immediately ensued, and for several days, the provisions could not be landed, so high was the surf occasioned by it. This delay, together with a knowledge that the provisions on the island were not adequate to the additional numbers that were now to be victualled, caused him to be particularly anxious to get the provisions on shore. The bad weather had separated the Sirius from the Supply; but meeting with a favourable slant of wind on the 19th, Captain Hunter gained the island from which he had been driven, and stood for Sydney Bay, at the south end of it, where he found the Supply; and it being signified by signal from the shore (where they could form the best judgment) that the landing might be effected with any boat, he brought to in the windward part of the bay, with the ship's head off the shore, got out the boats, and loaded them with provisions. When the boats had put off from the ship, it being perceived that she settled very much to leeward, the tacks were got on board, and every sail set that was possible to get her free from the shore. Notwithstanding which, she could not weather the reef off the south-west end of the bay, the wind having at that time very unfavourably shifted two points. The ship was then thrown in stays, which she missed, being with great difficulty wore clear of the breakers, and brought to the wind on the other tack, when every sail was again set. Finding that she still drifted fast upon the shore, another attempt was made to stay her; but being out of trim, it did not succeed. All the sheets and hallyards were then ordered to be let fly, and an anchor to be cut away; but before it reached the ground, she struck with violence on the reef, very soon bulged, and was irrecoverably lost. Her officers and people were all saved, having been dragged on shore, through the surf, on a grating.

Captain Hunter was really lucky to have a quick trip to Norfolk Island, arriving just seven days after he left. The soldiers and a significant number of the convicts were quickly unloaded in Cascade Bay, which was at that moment the leeward side of the island. Bad weather rolled in right away, and for several days, they couldn’t get the supplies unloaded because the surf was too rough. This delay, along with the fact that the island's supplies weren't enough for the increased numbers they had to feed, made him particularly anxious to get everything on shore. The bad weather had separated the Sirius from the Supply; however, on the 19th, when the wind turned favorable, Captain Hunter managed to return to the island he had been pushed away from and headed for Sydney Bay at the south end, where he found the Supply. It was signaled from the shore (where they had the best view) that landing could be done with any boat, so he anchored in the windward part of the bay, with the ship facing away from the shore, launched the boats, and loaded them with supplies. As the boats set off from the ship, it was noticed that she was leaning significantly to the leeward, so they brought in the tacks and set every sail they could to pull her free from the shore. Despite this, she couldn’t overcome the reef off the south-west corner of the bay, as the wind had shifted two points against them. The ship then attempted to turn, but missed, barely managing to steer clear of the breakers, and got back to the wind on the other tack, trying to set every sail again. Seeing that she was still being pushed quickly toward the shore, another effort was made to adjust her course; however, she was out of balance, and it didn’t work. All the sheets and halyards were then ordered to be let go, and an anchor was to be cut loose; but before it could even reach the bottom, she crashed hard onto the reef, quickly sustained damage, and was lost for good. All her officers and crew were saved, having been pulled ashore through the surf on a grating.

This day, which untoward circumstances had rendered so gloomy to us, was remarkably fine, and at the unfortunate moment of this calamity there was very little wind. On the next or second day after, permission was given to two convicts (one of whom, James Brannegan, was an overseer) to get off to the ship, and endeavour to bring on shore what live hogs they might be able to save; but with all that lamentable want of resolution and consideration which is characteristic of the lower order of people when temptations are placed before them, they both got intoxicated with the liquor which had escaped the plunder of the seamen, and set the ship on fire in two places. A light on board the ship being observed from the shore, several shot were fired at it, but the wretches would neither put it out, nor come on shore; when a young man of the name of Ascott, a convict, with great intrepidity went off through the surf, extinguished the fire, and forced them out of the ship.

This day, which unfortunate circumstances had made so gloomy for us, was surprisingly beautiful, and at the unfortunate moment of this disaster, there was barely any wind. The next day, permission was granted to two convicts (one of whom, James Brannegan, was a supervisor) to go to the ship and try to bring ashore any live hogs they could save; however, with all the regrettable lack of resolve and thoughtfulness typical of lower-class people when faced with temptation, they both got drunk on the liquor that had escaped from the sailors' plunder and set the ship on fire in two places. A light on the ship was spotted from the shore, and several shots were fired at it, but the scoundrels neither extinguished the fire nor came ashore; then a young man named Ascott, a convict, bravely went through the surf, put out the fire, and forced them off the ship.

The lieutenant-governor, immediately after the loss of the Sirius, called a council of all the naval and marine officers in the settlement, when it was unanimously determined that martial law should be proclaimed; that all private stock, poultry excepted, should be considered as the property of the state; that justice should be administered by a court-martial to be composed of seven officers, five of whom were to concur in a sentence of death; and that there should be two locks upon the door of the public store, whereof one key was to be in the keeping of a person to be appointed by Captain Hunter in behalf of the seamen; the other to be kept by a person to be appointed in behalf of the military. The day following, the troops, seamen, and convicts, being assembled, these resolutions were publicly read, and the whole confirmed their engagement of abiding by them by passing under the king's colour, which was displayed on the occasion.

The lieutenant governor, right after the loss of the Sirius, called a meeting of all the naval and marine officers in the settlement. They all agreed that martial law should be declared; that all private livestock, except for poultry, would be considered state property; that justice should be administered by a court-martial made up of seven officers, with five needing to agree for a death sentence; and that there would be two locks on the public store, with one key held by a person chosen by Captain Hunter for the seamen, and the other by a person appointed for the military. The next day, the troops, seamen, and convicts gathered, and these resolutions were publicly read. Everyone confirmed their commitment to follow them by passing under the king's colors, which were displayed for the occasion.

In the Supply arrived the late commandant of Norfolk Island, two lieutenants, four petty officers, twenty-four seamen, and two marines, lately belonging to the Sirius. These officers spoke in high terms of the activity and conduct of Mr. Keltie the master, Mr. Brooks the boatswain, and Mr. Donovan a midshipman of the Sirius, who ventured off to the ship in one of the island boats through a very dangerous surf, and brought on shore the end of the hawser, to which was slung the grating that saved the lives of the officers and people. They likewise somewhat blunted the edge of this calamity, by assurances that it was highly probable, from the favourable appearance of the weather when the Supply left Norfolk Island, that all or at least the greatest part of the provisions would be landed from the Sirius.

In the Supply arrived the late commandant of Norfolk Island, two lieutenants, four petty officers, twenty-four seamen, and two marines, who had recently been part of the Sirius. These officers praised the efforts and actions of Mr. Keltie the captain, Mr. Brooks the boatswain, and Mr. Donovan a midshipman of the Sirius, who bravely went out to the ship in one of the island boats through very dangerous surf and brought back the hawser's end, which was tied to the grating that saved the lives of the officers and crew. They also somewhat softened the impact of this disaster by assuring everyone that it was very likely, given the favorable weather conditions when the Supply left Norfolk Island, that all or at least most of the supplies would be unloaded from the Sirius.

The general melancholy which prevailed in this settlement when the above unwelcome intelligence was made public need not be described; and when the Supply came to an anchor in the cove every one looked up to her as to their only remaining hope.

The overall sadness that hung over this settlement when the unpleasant news was announced doesn't need to be described; and when the Supply dropped anchor in the cove, everyone looked to her as their last remaining hope.

In this exigency the governor thought it necessary to assemble all the officers of the settlement, civil and Military, to determine on what measures were necessary to be adopted. At this meeting, when the situation of the colony was thoroughly weighed and placed in every point of view, it was determined to reduce still lower what was already too low; the ration was to be no more then two pounds and a half of flour, two pounds of pork, one pint of peas, and one pound of rice, for each person for seven days. This allowance was to be issued to all descriptions of people in the colony, children under eighteen months excepted, who were to have only one pound of salt meat. Every exertion was to be made here, and at Botany Bay, in fishing for the general benefit. All private boats were to be surrendered to the public use; every effort was to be put in practice to prevent the robbing of gardens; and, as one step toward this, all suspicious characters were to be secured and locked up during the night. People were to be employed to kill, for the public, the animals that the country afforded; and every step was to be taken that could save a pound of the salt provisions in store, It was proposed to take all the hogs in the settlement as public property; but as it was absolutely necessary to keep some breeding sows, and the stock being small and very poor, that idea was abandoned.

In this emergency, the governor saw it as essential to bring together all the officers of the settlement, both civil and military, to decide what actions needed to be taken. During this meeting, after thoroughly evaluating the situation of the colony from all angles, they agreed to lower the already meager rations even further; each person would now receive only two and a half pounds of flour, two pounds of pork, one pint of peas, and one pound of rice for a week. This provision was to be given to everyone in the colony, except for children under eighteen months, who would only get one pound of salted meat. Every effort would be made here and at Botany Bay to fish for the overall benefit. All private boats were to be turned over for public use; measures were to be implemented to prevent theft from gardens; and as a step towards this, all suspicious individuals would be detained and locked up at night. People were to be employed to hunt the animals available in the area for public consumption, and every possible action was to be taken to conserve the remaining pound of salted supplies. It was suggested that all the hogs in the settlement be considered public property; however, since it was crucial to keep some breeding sows and the herd was small and in poor condition, that idea was discarded.

In pursuance of these resolutions, the few convicts who had been employed to shoot for individuals were given up for the public benefit; and a fishery was established at Botany Bay, under the inspection of one of the midshipmen of the Sirius. But this plan, not being found to answer, was soon relinquished. The quantity of fish that was from time to time taken was very inconsiderable, and the labour of transporting it by land from thence was greater than the advantage which was expected to be derived from it. The boats were therefore recalled, and employed with rather more success at Sydney.

In line with these resolutions, the few inmates who had been hired to fish for individuals were reassigned for the public good, and a fishery was set up at Botany Bay, overseen by one of the midshipmen from the Sirius. However, since this plan didn’t prove successful, it was quickly abandoned. The amount of fish caught was quite small, and the effort required to transport it overland was greater than the benefits it was supposed to bring. So, the boats were called back and used with more success in Sydney.

It was well known, that the integrity of the people employed in fishing could not be depended upon; the officers of the settlement therefore voluntarily took upon themselves the unpleasant task of superintending them; and it became a general duty, which every one cheerfully performed. The fishing-boat never went out without an officer, either by night or by day.

It was well known that the trustworthiness of the people working in fishing couldn't be relied upon; the settlement's officers therefore voluntarily took on the unpleasant job of supervising them, and it became a shared responsibility that everyone happily fulfilled. The fishing boat never left the shore without an officer, whether it was day or night.

On the 7th, about four hundred weight of fish being brought up, it was issued agreeable to the order; and could the like quantity have been brought in daily, some saving might have been made at the store, which would have repaid the labour that was employed to obtain it. But the quantity taken during this month, after the 7th, was not often much more than equal to supplying the people employed in the boats with one pound of fish per man, which was allowed them in addition to their ration. The small boats, the property of individuals, were therefore returned to their owners, and the people who had been employed in them, together with the seamen of the Sirius now here, were placed in the large boats belonging to the settlement.

On the 7th, around four hundred pounds of fish were brought in and distributed according to the order. If we could have brought in a similar amount every day, we could have saved some at the store, which would have compensated for the labor used to catch it. However, the amount caught after the 7th this month was often just enough to provide the people working on the boats with one pound of fish each, which was given to them in addition to their rations. The small boats owned by individuals were then returned to their owners, and the people who had been working in them, along with the crew of the Sirius now here, were moved to the larger boats belonging to the settlement.

Neither was much advantage obtained by employing people to shoot for the public. At the end of the month only three small kangaroos had been brought in. The convicts who were employed on this service, three in number, were considered as good marksmen, and were allowed a ration of flour instead of their salt provisions, the better to enable them to sustain the labour and fatigue of traversing the woods of this country.

Neither was there much benefit in hiring people to hunt for the public. By the end of the month, only three small kangaroos had been captured. The three convicts who worked in this role were regarded as decent marksmen and were given a ration of flour instead of their usual salted provisions, to help them cope with the labor and exhaustion of moving through the woods in this area.

The necessity of procuring relief became every day more pressing. The voyage of the Sirius to China was at an end; and nothing had yet arrived from England, though hourly expected. It was the natural and general opinion, that our present situation was to be attributed to accident rather than to procrastination. It was more probable, that the vessels which had been dispatched by the British government had met with some distress, that had either compelled them to return or had wholly prevented them from any further prosecution of the voyage, than that any delay should have taken place in their departure. The governor, therefore, determined on sending the Supply armed tender to Batavia; and, as her commander was most zealously active in his preparations for the voyage, she was soon ready for sea. Her tonnage, however, was trifling when compared with our necessities. Lieutenant Ball was, therefore, directed to procure a supply of eight months provisions for himself, and to hire a vessel and purchase 200,000 pounds of flour, 80,000 pounds of beef, 60,000 pounds of pork, and 70,000 pounds of rice; together with some necessaries for the hospital, such as sugar, sago, hogs lard, vinegar, and dongaree. The expectation of this relief was indeed distant, but yet it was more to be depended upon than that which might be coming from England. A given time was fixed for the return of the Supply; but it was impossible to say when a vessel might arrive from Europe. Whatever might be our distress for provisions, it would be some alleviation to look on to a certain fixed period when it might be expected to be removed. Lieutenant Ball's passage lay through the regions of fine weather, and the hope of every one was fixed upon the little vessel that was to convey him; yet it was painful to contemplate our very existence as depending upon her safety; to consider that a rough sea, a hidden rock, or the violence of elemental strife, might in one fatal moment precipitate us, with the little bark that had all our hopes on board, to the lowest abyss of misery. In the well-known ability and undoubted exertions of her commander however, under God, all placed their dependance; and from that principle, when she sailed, instead of predicting mischance, we all, with one wish for her safe return, fixed and anticipated the period at which it might reasonably be expected.

The need for help grew more urgent every day. The journey of the Sirius to China was over, and nothing had arrived from England, even though it was expected at any moment. It was the common view that our current situation was due to chance rather than delay. It seemed more likely that the ships sent by the British government had encountered some trouble that forced them to turn back or completely halted their journey, rather than any delay in their departure. The governor decided to send the Supply, an armed tender, to Batavia; and since her captain was really eager in his preparations, she was quickly ready to set sail. However, her capacity was minimal compared to our needs. Lieutenant Ball was instructed to secure enough supplies for eight months for himself and to hire a ship to purchase 200,000 pounds of flour, 80,000 pounds of beef, 60,000 pounds of pork, and 70,000 pounds of rice, along with some essentials for the hospital, like sugar, sago, lard, vinegar, and dongaree. Although the wait for these supplies seemed long, it was still more reliable than what was coming from England. A specific date was set for the return of the Supply, but it was impossible to know when a ship might arrive from Europe. No matter how desperate we were for food, it was somewhat comforting to have a fixed date when we could expect relief. Lieutenant Ball's route went through good weather, and everyone was hopeful for the small vessel carrying him; yet, it was distressing to think that our survival depended on her safety. The thought that a rough sea, a hidden rock, or fierce weather could suddenly plunge us and the tiny ship holding all our hopes into deep despair was troubling. However, the well-known skill and undeniable efforts of her captain were something everyone relied on, and because of that faith, when she left, instead of fearing disaster, we all eagerly anticipated her safe return at a reasonable time.

She sailed on Saturday the 17th of April, having on board Lieutenant King, the late commandant of Norfolk Island, who was charged with the governor's dispatches for the secretary of state, and Mr. Andrew Miller, the late commissary, whose ill state of health obliging him to resign that employment, the governor permitted him to return to England. and had appointed Mr. John Palmer, the purser of the Sirius, to supply his place.

She set sail on Saturday, April 17th, with Lieutenant King, the former commandant of Norfolk Island, who was in charge of the governor's dispatches for the secretary of state, and Mr. Andrew Miller, the former commissary. Due to his poor health, he had to resign from his position, and the governor allowed him to return to England. Mr. John Palmer, the purser of the Sirius, was appointed to take his place.

Lieutenant Newton Fowell, of the Sirius, was, together with the gunner of that ship, also embarked. The Supply was to touch at Norfolk Island, if practicable, and take on board Lieutenant Bradley of the Sirius, who, from his knowledge of the coast, was chosen by the governor to proceed to Batavia, and was to return to this port in whatever vessel might be freighted by Lieutenant Ball; Mr. Fowell and the gunner were to be left at the island.

Lieutenant Newton Fowell from the Sirius was also on board with the ship's gunner. The Supply was supposed to stop at Norfolk Island, if possible, to pick up Lieutenant Bradley from the Sirius. He was selected by the governor to go to Batavia due to his knowledge of the coast, and he was to come back to this port on whichever ship Lieutenant Ball arranged. Mr. Fowell and the gunner were going to stay at the island.

Mr. Palmer received his appointment from his excellency on the 12th of this month, on which day the following was the state of the provisions in the public store, viz

Mr. Palmer got his appointment from his excellency on the 12th of this month, on which day the following was the status of the supplies in the public store, namely

Pork    23,851 pounds,)  Which was     26th Aug.---4 months 14 days.
Beef     1,280 pounds,)  to serve
Rice    24,455 pounds,)  at the        13th Sept.--5 months  1 day.
Peas        17 bushels,) ration
Flour   56,884 pounds,)  then issued   19th Dec.---8 months  7 days.
Biscuit  1,924 pounds,)  until

Pork    23,851 pounds,)  which was     Aug. 26th---4 months 14 days.
Beef     1,280 pounds,)  to serve
Rice    24,455 pounds,)  at the        Sept. 13th---5 months  1 day.
Peas        17 bushels,) ration
Flour   56,884 pounds,)  then issued   Dec. 19th---8 months  7 days.
Biscuit  1,924 pounds,)  until

The duration of the Supply's voyage was generally expected to be six months; a period at which, if no relief arrived in the mean time from England, we should be found without salt provisions, rice, and peas.

The expected length of the Supply's voyage was about six months; a time when, if no help came from England in the meantime, we would run out of salt provisions, rice, and peas.

In the above statement three hundred bushels of wheat, which had been produced at Rose Hill, were not included, being reserved for seed.

In the above statement, three hundred bushels of wheat produced at Rose Hill were not included because they were set aside for seed.

The governor, from a motive that did him immortal honor, in this season of general distress, gave up three hundred weight of flour which was his excellency's private property, declaring that he wished not to see any thing more at his table than the ration which was received in common from the public store, without any distinction of persons; and to this resolution he rigidly adhered, wishing that if a convict complained, he might see that want was not unfelt even at Government house.

The governor, motivated by a desire to earn lasting respect during this time of widespread hardship, donated three hundred pounds of flour that belonged to him personally. He stated that he didn’t want to have anything at his table that wasn’t the same ration provided to everyone from the public supply, regardless of status. He strictly stuck to this decision, hoping that if a convict expressed dissatisfaction, they would realize that the need was recognized even at Government House.

On the 20th of the month, the following was the ration issued from the public store to each man for seven days, or to seven people for one day: flour, 2½ pounds, rice, 2 pounds, pork, 2 pounds. The peas were all expended. Was this a ration for a labouring man? The two pounds of pork, when boiled, from the length of time it had been in store. shrunk away to nothing; and when divided among seven people for their day's sustenance, barely afforded three or four morsels to each.

On the 20th of the month, the following was the ration given out from the public store to each man for a week, or to seven people for one day: 2½ pounds of flour, 2 pounds of rice, and 2 pounds of pork. The peas were all gone. Was this enough for a working man? The two pounds of pork, once boiled, had shrunk to almost nothing after being stored for so long, and when split among seven people for their day's food, barely provided three or four bites each.

The inevitable consequences of this scarcity of provisions ensued; labour stood nearly suspended for want of energy to proceed; and the countenances of the people plainly bespoke the hardships they underwent. The convicts, however, were employed for the public in the forenoons; and such labour was obtained from them as their situation would allow. The guard-house on the east side was finished and taken possession of during the month.

The unavoidable effects of this lack of resources followed; work was almost at a standstill due to a lack of energy to continue; and the faces of the people clearly showed the difficulties they faced. However, the convicts were used for public work in the mornings; and they provided as much labor as their circumstances permitted. The guardhouse on the east side was completed and occupied during the month.

There being many among the convicts who availed themselves of this peculiar situation to commit thefts, it became necessary to punish with severity all who were fully convicted before the court of criminal jurisdiction. One convict was executed for breaking into a house, and several others were sentenced to severe corporal punishments. Garden robberies were the principal offences committed. These people had been assembled by the governor, and informed that very severe punishment would follow the conviction of persons guilty of robbing gardens, as a necessary step toward preventing the continuance of such an evil; and he strongly inculcated the absolute necessity that existed for every man to cultivate his own garden, instead of robbing that of another. To the few who, from never having been industrious, had not any ground sown or planted with vegetables, he allotted a small but sufficient spot for their use, and encouraged them in their labour by his presence and directions; but they preferred any thing to honest industry. These people, though the major part of them were, during the night, locked up in the building lately occupied as a guardhouse, were ever on the watch to commit depredations on the unwary during the hours in which they were at large, and never suffered an opportunity to escape them. A female convict, who came down from Rose Hill, was robbed of her week's provisions; and as it was impossible to replace them from the public store, she was left to subsist on what she could obtain from the bounty (never more truly laudable than at this distressing juncture) of others who commiserated her situation.

Many of the convicts took advantage of this unusual situation to steal, so it became essential to punish anyone found guilty in court harshly. One convict was executed for breaking into a house, and several others received severe corporal punishments. Garden thefts were the main crimes committed. The governor gathered these individuals and made it clear that harsh penalties would follow for anyone caught stealing from gardens, as a crucial step to stop this wrongdoing. He emphasized the need for everyone to grow their own garden instead of stealing from someone else's. For the few who had never been hardworking and didn’t have any land planted with vegetables, he assigned a small but enough plot for their use and motivated them in their work with his presence and guidance; however, they preferred anything over honest labor. Although most of them were locked up at night in the building that had recently served as a guardhouse, they were always on the lookout to take advantage of the unsuspecting during the times they were free, and they never missed an opportunity. A female convict who came from Rose Hill was robbed of her week's worth of supplies; since it was impossible to replace them from the public store, she was left to survive on what she could get from the generosity (never more commendable than at this difficult time) of others who sympathized with her situation.

One male convict was executed; one female convict and one child died. The female convict occasioned her own death, by overloading her stomach with flour and greens, of which she made a mess during the day, and ate heartily; but, not being satisfied, she rose in the night and finished it. This was one of the evil effects of the reduced ration.

One male convict was executed; one female convict and one child died. The female convict caused her own death by overloading her stomach with flour and greens, which she made a mess of during the day and ate a lot of; but, not being satisfied, she got up at night and finished it off. This was one of the harmful effects of the reduced ration.

May.] The expedient of shooting for the public not being found to answer the expectations which had been formed of it, sixty pounds of pork only having been saved, the game-killers were called in, and the general exertion was directed to the business of fishing. The seine and the hooks and lines were employed, and with various success; the best of which afforded but a very trifling relief.

May.] The plan of hunting for the public didn’t meet the expectations set for it, as only sixty pounds of pork were obtained. So, the hunters were brought in, and everyone focused on fishing instead. They used seines, hooks, and lines, and had varying degrees of success; however, the best results still provided only minimal relief.

As the Sirius was fated not to return to perform her intended voyage to India, the biscuit which had been baked for that purpose was issued, in lieu of flour, that article being served again when the biscuit was expended; and it lasted only through seven days.

As the Sirius was destined not to return for her planned trip to India, the biscuit that had been made for that purpose was given out instead of flour, which was provided again once the biscuit was used up; and it only lasted for seven days.

It was naturally expected, that the miserable allowance which was issued would affect the healths of the labouring convicts. A circumstance occurred on the 12th of this month, which seemed to favor this idea; an elderly man dropped down at the store, whither he had repaired with others to receive his day's subsistence. Fainting with hunger, and unable through age to hold up any longer, he was carried to the hospital, where he died the next morning. On being opened, his stomach was found quite empty. It appeared, that not having any utensil of his own wherein to cook his provisions, nor share in any, he was frequently compelled, short as his allowance for the day was, to give a part of it to any one who would supply him with a vessel to dress his victuals; and at those times when he did not choose to afford this deduction, he was accustomed to eat his rice and other provisions undressed, which brought on indigestion, and at length killed him.

It was naturally expected that the meager rations given out would affect the health of the working convicts. An event on the 12th of this month seemed to support this idea; an elderly man collapsed at the store, where he had gone with others to pick up his daily food. Faint from hunger and unable to keep going due to his age, he was taken to the hospital, where he died the next morning. When examined, his stomach was found to be completely empty. It turned out that since he didn’t have any utensil of his own to cook his food or share in any, he often had to give up part of his small daily allowance to anyone who would give him a pot to prepare his meals. At those times when he didn’t want to make that sacrifice, he would eat his rice and other food raw, which caused him indigestion and ultimately led to his death.

It might have been supposed, that the severity of the punishments which had been ordered by the criminal court on offenders convicted of robbing gardens would have deterred others from committing that offence; but while there was a vegetable to steal, there were those who would steal it, wholly regardless as to the injustice done to the person they robbed, and of the consequences that might ensue to themselves. For this sort of robbery the criminal court was twice assembled in the present month. The clergyman had taken a convict in his garden in the act of stealing potatoes. Example was necessary, and the court that tried him, finding that the severity of former courts did not prevent the commission of the same offence, instead of the great weight of corporal punishment which had marked their former sentences, directed this prisoner to receive three hundred lashes, his ration of flour to be stopped for six months, and himself to be chained for that time to two public delinquents who had been detected in the fact of robbing the governor's garden, and who had been ordered by the justices to work for a certain time in irons.

It might have been assumed that the harsh punishments given by the criminal court to those convicted of stealing from gardens would have discouraged others from committing that crime. However, as long as there were vegetables to steal, there would always be people willing to take them, completely ignoring the injustice done to the victim and the potential consequences for themselves. This month, the criminal court met twice for this type of robbery. A clergyman caught a convict in his garden stealing potatoes. To set an example, the court, realizing that previous punishments hadn't stopped similar crimes, decided to impose a severe penalty on this prisoner: he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes, his flour rations were to be stopped for six months, and he was to be chained for that time to two public offenders who had been caught robbing the governor's garden. The justices ordered those offenders to work in chains for a set period.

This sentence was carried into execution; but the governor remitted, after some days trial, that part of it which respected the prisoner's ration of flour, without which he could not long have existed.

This sentence was carried out; however, after a few days of consideration, the governor decided to cancel the part that concerned the prisoner's supply of flour, as he wouldn't have survived long without it.

The governor's garden had been the object of frequent depredation; scarcely a night passed that it was not robbed, notwithstanding that many received vegetables from it by his excellency's order. Two convicts had been taken up, who confessed that within the space of a month they had robbed it seven or eight times, and that they had killed a hog belonging to an officer. These were the people who were ordered by the justices to work in irons. A soldier, a man of infamous character, had been detected robbing the garden while sentinel in the neighbourhood of it, and, being tried by a court-martial for quitting his post, was sentenced and received five hundred lashes. Yet all this was not sufficient: on the evening of the 26th, a seaman belonging to the Sirius got into the governor's garden, and was fired at by a watchman who had been stationed there for some nights past, and wounded, as it afterwards appeared, but so slightly as not to prevent his effecting his escape; leaving, however, a bag behind him, filled with vegetables. On close examination it was fixed upon him, and, being brought before a criminal court, he was sentenced to receive five hundred lashes; but at the same time was recommended to the governor's clemency, on account of a good character which had been given him in court. The governor, as it was his garden that was robbed, attended to the recommendation, remitting four out of the five hundred lashes which had been ordered him*. Being, after this, villain enough to accuse some of his shipmates of crimes which he acknowledged existed only in his own malicious mind, he received, by order of the justices, a further punishment of fifty lashes.

The governor's garden had been regularly plundered; hardly a night went by without it being robbed, even though many received vegetables from it by the governor's order. Two convicts were caught and confessed that they had stolen from it seven or eight times in a month and had also killed a pig belonging to an officer. These were the individuals ordered by the justices to work in chains. A soldier with a bad reputation was caught robbing the garden while on guard nearby. He was tried by a court-martial for leaving his post and was sentenced to five hundred lashes. Yet that wasn’t enough: on the evening of the 26th, a sailor from the Sirius got into the governor’s garden and was shot at by a watchman who had been stationed there for several nights. He was wounded, but not seriously enough to stop him from escaping, although he left behind a bag full of vegetables. Upon further investigation, it was determined he was responsible, and when he was brought before a criminal court, he was sentenced to five hundred lashes. However, he was also recommended for mercy by the court because of a good character reference. Since it was his garden that had been robbed, the governor considered the recommendation and reduced his sentence to only one hundred lashes. After this, in an act of malice, he falsely accused some of his shipmates of crimes that only existed in his own spiteful imagination, resulting in an additional punishment of fifty lashes ordered by the justices.

[* Sixty pounds of flour, which had been offered as a reward for bringing to justice a garden-thief, were paid to the watchman who fired at him.]

[* Sixty pounds of flour, which had been offered as a reward for catching a garden thief, were given to the watchman who shot at him.]

So great was either the villainy of the people, or the necessities of the times, that a prisoner lying at the hospital under sentence of corporal punishment having received a part of it, five hundred lashes, contrived to get his irons off from one leg, and in that situation was caught robbing a farm. On being brought in, he received another portion of his punishment.

So serious was either the wrongdoing of the people or the demands of the time that a prisoner in the hospital under sentence of corporal punishment, who had already received part of it—five hundred lashes—managed to get one of his leg irons off and was caught stealing from a farm in that condition. When he was brought in, he faced another part of his punishment.

Among other thefts committed in this season of general distress, was one by a convict employed in the fishing boats, who found means to secrete several pounds of fish in a bag, which he meant to secure in addition to the allowance which was to be made him for having been out on that duty. To deter others from committing the like offence, which might, by repetition, amount to a serious evil, he was ordered to receive one hundred lashes.

Among other thefts during this time of widespread hardship, a convict working on the fishing boats managed to hide several pounds of fish in a bag, planning to keep it in addition to the portion he was supposed to receive for his work. To discourage others from committing similar offenses, which could become a significant problem if it continued, he was sentenced to receive one hundred lashes.

At Rose Hill the convicts conducted themselves with much greater propriety; not a theft nor any act of ill behaviour having been for some time past heard of among them*.

At Rose Hill, the convicts acted with much more respect; there hasn't been a theft or any bad behavior reported among them for quite a while.

[* They had vegetables in great abundance.]

[* They had a lot of vegetables.]

At that settlement a kangaroo had been killed of one hundred and eighty pounds weight; and the people reported that they were much molested by the native dogs, which had been seen together in great numbers, and, coming by night about the settlement, had killed some hogs which were not housed.

At that settlement, a kangaroo weighing one hundred eighty pounds was killed; and the people reported that they were frequently bothered by the wild dogs, which had been spotted in large groups and, coming around the settlement at night, had killed some pigs that weren't kept in pens.

The colony had hitherto been supplied with salt from the public stores, a quantity being always shaken off from the salt provisions, and reserved for use by the store-keepers; but the daily consumption of salt provisions was now become so inconsiderable, and they had been so long in store, that little or none of that article was to be procured. Two large iron boilers were therefore erected at the east point of the cove; some people were employed to boil the salt water, and the salt which was produced by this very simple process was issued to the convicts.

The colony had previously been getting its salt from the public supplies, with some of the salt from the stored provisions set aside for the storekeepers. However, the daily use of salt provisions had now dropped so much, and they had been stored for so long, that there was hardly any salt available. So, two large iron boilers were set up at the east end of the cove, and some people were hired to boil the salt water. The salt produced by this straightforward process was then given out to the convicts.

Our fishing tackle began now, with our other necessaries, to decrease. To remedy this inconvenience, we were driven by necessity to avail ourselves of some knowledge which we had gained from the natives; and one of the convicts (a rope-maker) was employed to spin lines from the bark of a tree which they used for the same purpose.

Our fishing gear, along with our other supplies, started to run low. To fix this issue, we were forced to use some of the knowledge we had picked up from the locals; and one of the prisoners (a rope-maker) was assigned to make fishing lines from the bark of a tree that they also used for this purpose.

The native who had been taken in November last convinced us how far before every other consideration he deemed the possession of his liberty, by very artfully effecting his escape from the governor's house, where he had been treated with every indulgence and had enjoyed every comfort which it was in his excellency's power to give him. He managed his escape so ingeniously, that it was not suspected until he had completed it, and all search was rendered fruitless. The boy and the girl appeared to remain perfectly contented among us, and declared that they knew their countryman would never return.

The native who had been taken last November showed us how much he valued his freedom above everything else by cleverly escaping from the governor's house, where he had been treated with every kindness and given all the comforts that the governor could provide. He executed his escape so skillfully that no one suspected it until he was already gone, and all efforts to find him were in vain. The boy and the girl seemed completely happy with us and stated that they knew their fellow countryman would never come back.

During this month the bricklayer's gang and some carpenters were sent down to the Look-out, to erect two huts for the midshipmen and seamen of the Sirius who were stationed there, where the stonemason's gang were employed quarrying stone for two chimneys.

During this month, a group of bricklayers and some carpenters were sent to the Look-out to build two huts for the midshipmen and seamen of the Sirius who were stationed there, while the stonemasons were busy quarrying stone for two chimneys.

The greatest quantity of fish caught at any one time in this month was two hundred pounds. Once the seine was full; but through either the wilfulness or the ignorance of the people employed to land it, the greatest part of its contents escaped. Upwards of two thousand pounds were taken in the course of the month, which produced a saving of five hundred pounds of pork at the store, the allowance of thirty-one men for four weeks.

The largest amount of fish caught at one time this month was two hundred pounds. Once the net was full, but due to either the stubbornness or the lack of knowledge of the people who were supposed to land it, most of what was caught got away. More than two thousand pounds were caught over the month, which saved five hundred pounds of pork at the store, enough for thirty-one men for four weeks.

Very little labour could be enforced from people who had nothing to eat. Nevertheless, as it was necessary to think of some preparations for the next season, the convicts were employed in getting the ground ready both at Sydney and at Rose Hill for the reception of wheat and barley. The quantity of either article, however, to be now sown, fell far short of what our necessities required.

Very little work could be expected from people who had nothing to eat. Still, since it was important to plan for the next season, the convicts were tasked with preparing the land at both Sydney and Rose Hill for planting wheat and barley. However, the amount of either crop that could be sown now was far less than what we needed.

CHAPTER X

The Lady Juliana transport arrives from England
The Guardian
The King's birthday
Thanksgiving for the King's recovery
The Justinian supply ship arrives
Full rations ordered
Three transports arrive
Terrible condition of the convicts onboard
Sick taken ashore
Example of cleverness in a dog
One convict drowned
Death toll and number of sick on the 13th
Convicts sent to Rose Hill
A town laid out there
Ongoing work in Sydney
Guidelines regarding land grants
Mr. Fergusson drowned
Convicts' claims against the captain of the Neptune
Transactions
Criminal Court
Whale

June.] The first and second days of this month were exceedingly unfavourable to our situation; heavy rain and blowing weather obstructed labour and prevented fishing. But it was decreed that on the 3rd we should experience sensations to which we had been strangers ever since our departure from England. About half past three in the afternoon of this day, to the inexpressible satisfaction of every heart in the settlement, the long-looked-for signal for a ship was made at the South Head. Every countenance was instantly cheered, and wore the lively expressions of eagerness, joy, and anxiety; the whole settlement was in motion and confusion. Notwithstanding it blew very strong at the time, the governor's secretary, accompanied by Captain Tench and Mr. White, immediately went off, and at some risk (for a heavy sea was running in the harbour's mouth) reached the ship for which the signal had been made just in time to give directions which placed her in safety in Spring Cove. She proved to be the Lady Juliana transport from London, last from Plymouth; from which latter place we learned, with no small degree of wonder and mortification, that she sailed on the 29th day of last July (full ten months ago) with two hundred and twenty-two female convicts on board.

June.] The first two days of this month were really tough for us; heavy rain and strong winds made work impossible and fishing was out of the question. But on the 3rd, we were about to feel feelings that we hadn’t known since we left England. Around half past three in the afternoon, to the overwhelming joy of everyone in the settlement, the long-awaited signal for a ship was seen at the South Head. Everyone's face lit up with eagerness, joy, and anxiety; the entire settlement was buzzing with activity and chaos. Even though it was very windy at the time, the governor's secretary, along with Captain Tench and Mr. White, quickly set out and, at some risk (because there were big waves coming into the harbor), reached the ship just in time to guide her safely into Spring Cove. It turned out to be the Lady Juliana transport from London, having last docked in Plymouth; from there, we learned, to our great surprise and disappointment, that she had set sail on July 29th of last year (a full ten months ago) with two hundred and twenty-two female convicts on board.

We had long conjectured, that the non-arrival of supplies must be owing either to accident or delays in the voyage, and not to any backwardness on the part of government in sending them out. We now found that our disappointment was to be ascribed to both misfortune and delay. The Lady Juliana, we have seen, sailed in July last, and in the month of September following his majesty's ship Guardian, of forty-four guns, commanded by Lieutenant Edward Riou, sailed from England, having on board, with what was in the Lady Juliana, two years provisions, viz 295,344 pounds of flour, 149,856 pounds of beef, and 303,632 pounds of pork, for the settlement; a supply of clothing for the marines serving on shore, and for those belonging to the Sirius and Supply; together with a large quantity of sails and cordage for those ships and for the uses of the colony; sixteen chests of medicines; fifteen casks of wine; a quantity of blankets and bedding for the hospital; and a large supply of unmade clothing for the convicts; with an ample assortment of tools and implements of agriculture.

We had long suspected that the missing supplies were due to either accidents or delays during the journey, rather than any reluctance from the government to send them. We now realized that our disappointment was caused by both bad luck and hold-ups. The Lady Juliana, as we know, set sail last July, and in September, His Majesty's ship Guardian, armed with forty-four guns and commanded by Lieutenant Edward Riou, left England, carrying an additional two years’ worth of provisions along with what was already on the Lady Juliana. This included 295,344 pounds of flour, 149,856 pounds of beef, and 303,632 pounds of pork for the settlement; clothing supplies for the marines on land and those on the Sirius and Supply; a large amount of sails and ropes for these ships and for use in the colony; sixteen chests of medicine; fifteen casks of wine; blankets and bedding for the hospital; and a significant amount of unmade clothing for the convicts, along with a comprehensive variety of tools and equipment for agriculture.

At the Cape of Good Hope Lieutenant Riou took on board a quantity of stock for the settlement, and completed a garden which had been prepared under the immediate direction of Sir Joseph Banks, and in which there were near one hundred and fifty of the finest fruit trees, several of them bearing fruit.

At the Cape of Good Hope, Lieutenant Riou took aboard a supply of livestock for the settlement and finished a garden that had been prepared under the direct guidance of Sir Joseph Banks, which included nearly one hundred and fifty of the best fruit trees, some of which were already bearing fruit.

There was scarcely an officer in the colony that had not his share of private property embarked on board of this richly freighted ship; their respective friends having procured permission from government for that purpose.

There was hardly an officer in the colony who didn’t have some personal belongings on this well-stocked ship; their friends had gotten permission from the government for that reason.

But it was as painful then to learn, as it will ever be to recollect, that on the 23rd day of December preceding, the Guardian struck against an island of ice in latitude 45 degrees 54 minutes South, and longitude 41 degrees 30 minutes East, whereby she received so much injury, that Lieutenant Riou was compelled, in order to save her from instantly sinking, to throw overboard the greatest part of her valuable cargo both on the public and private account. The stock was all killed, (seven horses, sixteen cows, two bulls, a number of sheep, goats, and two deer,) the garden destroyed, and the ship herself saved only by the interposition of Providence, and the admirable conduct of the commander.

But it was as painful to learn then, as it will always be to remember, that on December 23rd, the Guardian ran into an iceberg at 45 degrees 54 minutes South and 41 degrees 30 minutes East. She was damaged so badly that Lieutenant Riou had to throw most of her valuable cargo overboard, both for public and private reasons, to prevent her from sinking immediately. All the livestock was lost (seven horses, sixteen cows, two bulls, a number of sheep, goats, and two deer), the garden was ruined, and the ship was saved only by divine intervention and the excellent leadership of the commander.

The Guardian was a fast-sailing ship, and would probably have arrived in the latter end of January or the beginning of February last. At that period the large quantity of live stock in the colony was daily increasing; the people required for labour were, comparatively with their present state, strong and healthy; the necessity of dividing the Convicts, and sending the Sirius to Norfolk Island, would not have existed; the ration of provisions, instead of the diminutions which had been necessarily directed, would have been increased to the full allowance; and the tillage of the ground consequently proceeded in with that spirit which must be exerted to the utmost before the settlement could render itself independent of the mother country for subsistence.

The Guardian was a fast-sailing ship and likely would have arrived in late January or early February last year. At that time, the large number of livestock in the colony was growing every day; the workers needed for labor were, compared to their current condition, strong and healthy; there wouldn't have been a need to split the convicts up and send the Sirius to Norfolk Island; the food rations, instead of the cuts that had to be made, would have been increased to the full allowance; and as a result, farming would have continued with the enthusiasm necessary for the settlement to become self-sufficient and no longer reliant on the mother country for food.

But to what a distance was that period now thrown by this unfortunate accident, and by the delay which took place in the voyage of the Lady Juliana! Government had placed a naval officer in this transport, Lieutenant Thomas Edgar*, for the purpose of seeing justice done to the convicts as to their provisions, cleanliness, etc. and to guard against any unnecessary delays on the voyage. Being directed to follow the route of the Sirius and her convoy, he called at Teneriffe and St. Iago, stayed seven weeks at Rio de Janeiro, and one month at the Cape of Good Hope; completing his circuitous voyage of ten months duration by arriving here on the 3rd day of June 1790.

But how far that time had been pushed back by this unfortunate accident and by the delays in the voyage of the Lady Juliana! The government had assigned a naval officer to this transport, Lieutenant Thomas Edgar*, to ensure that the convicts received proper treatment regarding their food, cleanliness, and so on, and to prevent any unnecessary delays during the journey. Following the same route as the Sirius and her convoy, he stopped at Teneriffe and St. Iago, spent seven weeks in Rio de Janeiro, and one month at the Cape of Good Hope; he completed his lengthy voyage of ten months by arriving here on June 3rd, 1790.

[* He had sailed with the late Captain Cook.]

On Lieutenant Edgar's arrival at the Cape he found the Guardian lying there, Lieutenant Riou having just safely regained that port, from which he had sailed but a short time, with every fair prospect of speedily and happily executing the orders with which he was entrusted, and of conveying to this colony the assistance of which it stood so much in need. Unhappily for us, she was now lying a wreck, with difficulty and at an immense expense preserved from sinking at her anchors.

On Lieutenant Edgar's arrival at the Cape, he found the Guardian there, with Lieutenant Riou having just safely returned to port. He had only set out a short time before, with every chance of quickly and successfully carrying out his orders and providing the much-needed assistance to the colony. Unfortunately for us, the ship was now a wreck, barely kept from sinking at her anchors and at a huge cost.

Beside the common share which we all bore in this calamity, we had to lament that the efforts of our several friends, in amply supplying the wants that they concluded must have been occasioned by an absence of three years, were all rendered ineffectual, the private articles having been among the first things that were thrown overboard to lighten the ship*.

Beside the shared burden we all carried in this disaster, we had to regret that the generous efforts of our friends to meet our needs, which they believed were caused by our three-year absence, were completely wasted, as personal belongings were among the first items tossed overboard to lighten the ship*.

[* The private property of the officers was all stowed, as the best and safest place in the ship, in the gun-room. Some officers were great losers.]

[* The officers' personal belongings were all stored in the gun-room, which was the best and safest spot on the ship. Some officers suffered significant losses.]

Government had sent out in the Guardian twenty-five male convicts, who were either farmers or artificers, together with seven persons engaged to serve as superintendants of convicts, for three years from their landing, at salaries of forty pounds per annum each. Of these, two, who were professed gardeners, were supposed to be drowned, having left the ship soon after she struck, with several other persons in boats, and not been heard of when the Lady Juliana left the Cape. The superintendants who remained came on in the transport; but the convicts, of whose conduct Lieutenant Riou spoke in the highest terms, were detained at the Cape.

The government had sent out twenty-five male convicts, who were either farmers or skilled workers, along with seven people hired to oversee the convicts for three years from their arrival, each earning forty pounds a year. Of these, two, who were professional gardeners, were thought to have drowned after leaving the ship soon after it hit the shore, along with several others in boats, and they hadn't been heard from when the *Lady Juliana* departed from the Cape. The remaining superintendents continued the journey on the transport; however, the convicts, who Lieutenant Riou praised highly, were held back at the Cape.

A clergyman also was on board the Guardian, the Rev. Mr. Crowther, who had been appointed, at a salary of eight shillings per diem, to divide the religious duties of the settlement with Mr. Johnson. This gentleman left the ship with the master and purser in the long-boat, taking provisions and water with them; and of five boats which were launched on the same perilous enterprise, this was the only one that conducted her passengers into safety. They were fortunately, after many days sailing, picked up by a French ship, which took them into the Cape, and thence to Europe.

A clergyman was also on board the Guardian, the Rev. Mr. Crowther, who had been hired with a salary of eight shillings a day to share the religious duties of the settlement with Mr. Johnson. This gentleman left the ship with the captain and purser in the lifeboat, taking supplies and water with them; out of five boats launched for the same dangerous mission, this was the only one that safely brought its passengers back. Fortunately, after many days of sailing, they were rescued by a French ship, which took them to the Cape, and then on to Europe.

One-third of the stores and provisions intended for the colony were put on board the transport, the remaining two-thirds were on board the Guardian; none of which it was supposed would ever reach the settlement, the small quantity excepted (seventy-five barrels of flour) which was put on board the transport at the Cape. The Dutch at that place were profiting by our misfortune, their warehouses being let out at an immense expense to receive such of the provisions and stores as remained on board the Guardian when she got in.

One-third of the supplies meant for the colony were loaded onto the transport, while the other two-thirds were on the Guardian; it was expected that none of these would ever make it to the settlement, except for a small amount (seventy-five barrels of flour) that was loaded onto the transport at the Cape. The Dutch there were taking advantage of our misfortune, as their warehouses were being rented at a huge cost to store the remaining supplies from the Guardian when it arrived.

In addition to the above distressing circumstances, we learned that one thousand convicts of both sexes were to sail at the latter end of the last year, and that a corps of foot was raising for the service of this country under the command of a major-commandant, Francis Grose esq. from the 29th foot, of which regiment, he was major. The transports which sailed hence in May, July, and November 1788 (the Friendship excepted) arrived in England within a very short time of each other; and their arrival relieved the public from anxiety upon our account.

In addition to the troubling situation mentioned earlier, we learned that a thousand convicts, both men and women, were set to sail at the end of last year. A foot brigade was being formed for the service of this country under Major Francis Grose, who was a major from the 29th foot. The transport ships that left in May, July, and November 1788 (except for the Friendship) arrived back in England within a short period and eased public concerns about us.

The joy that was diffused by the arrival of the transports was considerably checked by the variety of unpleasant and unwelcome intelligence which she brought. We learned that our beloved Sovereign had been attacked and for some months afflicted with a dangerous and alarming illness, though now happily recovered. Our distance from his person had not lessened our attachment, and the day following the receipt of this information being the anniversary of his Majesty's birth, it was kept with every mark of distinction that was in our power. The governor pardoned all offenders who were under confinement, or under sentence of corporal punishment; the ration was increased for that day, that every one might rejoice; at the governor's table, where all the officers of the settlement and garrison were met, many prosperous and happy years were fervently wished to be added to his Majesty's life; and Wednesday the 9th was appointed for a public thanksgiving on occasion of his recovery.

The happiness that came with the arrival of the supplies was greatly overshadowed by the unpleasant and unwelcome news that accompanied them. We learned that our beloved King had been seriously ill for several months, though thankfully he was now recovering. Our separation from him had not diminished our loyalty, and the day after receiving this news, which was the anniversary of his Majesty’s birthday, we celebrated it with every honor we could provide. The governor pardoned all prisoners who were locked up or facing corporal punishment; the food rations were increased that day so everyone could celebrate; at the governor’s table, where all the settlement and garrison officers gathered, many wished for many more prosperous and happy years to be added to the King’s life; and Wednesday the 9th was designated for a public thanksgiving to celebrate his recovery.

The Lady Juliana was, by strong westerly winds and bad weather, prevented from reaching the cove until the 6th, when, the weather moderating, she was towed up to the settlement. The convicts on board her appeared to have been well treated during their long passage, and preparations for landing them were immediately made; but, in the distressed situation of the colony, it was not a little mortifying to find on board the first ship that arrived, a cargo so unnecessary and unprofitable as two hundred and twenty-two females, instead of a cargo of provisions; the supply of provisions on board her was so inconsiderable as to permit only an addition of one pound and a half of flour being made to the weekly ration. Had the Guardian arrived, perhaps we should never again have been in want.

The Lady Juliana was unable to reach the cove until the 6th due to strong westerly winds and bad weather. Once the weather improved, she was towed up to the settlement. The convicts on board seemed to have been well taken care of during their long journey, and preparations for their landing were quickly arranged. However, given the colony's difficult situation, it was quite disheartening to see that the first ship to arrive was carrying such an unnecessary and unhelpful cargo of two hundred and twenty-two females instead of much-needed food supplies. The amount of provisions on board was so limited that it only allowed for an additional one and a half pounds of flour to be added to the weekly rations. If the Guardian had arrived, we might never have faced shortages again.

On the 9th, being the day appointed for returning thanks to Almighty God for his Majesty's happy restoration to health, the attendance on divine service was very full. A sermon on the occasion was preached by the Rev. Mr. Johnson, who took his text from the book of Proverbs, 'By me kings reign.' The officers were afterwards entertained at the governor's, when an address on the occasion of the meeting was resolved to be sent to his Majesty.

On the 9th, the day set aside to thank Almighty God for the King’s happy recovery to health, the attendance at the church service was quite large. The Rev. Mr. Johnson delivered a sermon, using the passage from Proverbs, 'By me kings reign.' Afterward, the officers were hosted at the governor's residence, where it was decided to send a message to the King regarding the meeting.

When the women were landed on the 11th, many of them appeared to be loaded with the infirmities incident to old age, and to be very improper subjects for any of the purposes of an infant colony. Instead of being capable of labour, they seemed to require attendance themselves, and were never likely to be any other than a burden to the settlement, which must sensibly feel the hardship of having to support by the labour of those who could toll, and who at the best were but few, a description of people utterly incapable of using any exertion toward their own maintenance.

When the women arrived on the 11th, many of them seemed to be burdened by the weaknesses that come with old age, making them not suitable for the needs of a new colony. Instead of being able to work, they appeared to need care themselves, and they were unlikely to be anything but a burden to the settlement, which would certainly feel the strain of having to support them with the labor of those who could work, and who were already few in number—people who were completely unable to exert any effort toward their own upkeep.

When the women were disembarked, and the provisions and stores landed, it was found that twenty casks of flour (from the unfitness of the ship to perform such a voyage, being old and far from tight) were totally destroyed. This was a serious loss to us, when only four pounds of flour constituted the allowance of that article for one man for seven days.

When the women were taken off the ship, and the supplies and goods were unloaded, it was discovered that twenty barrels of flour (because the ship wasn’t fit for such a journey, being old and barely seaworthy) were completely ruined. This was a significant loss for us, especially since only four pounds of flour was the ration for one person for seven days.

From this situation of distress, however, we were in a short time afterwards effectually relieved, and the colony might be pronounced to be restored, by the arrival (on the 20th) of the Justinian storeship, Mr. Benjamin Maitland master, from England, after a short passage of only five months. Mr. Maitland, on the 2nd of this month, the day preceding the arrival of the Lady Juliana, was off the entrance of this harbour, and would certainly have been found by that ship at anchor within the heads, had he not, by a sudden change of the wind, aided by a current, been driven as far to the northward as Black Head, in latitude 32 degrees S. where he was very nearly lost in an heavy gale of wind; but which he providentially rode out, having been obliged to come to an anchor, though close in with some dangerous rocks. The wind was dead on the shore, and the rocks so close when he anchored, that the rebound of the wave prevented him from riding any considerable strain on his cable. Had that failed him, we should never have seen the Justinian or her valuable cargo, which was found to consist of stores and provisions, trusted, it was true, to one ship; but as she had happily arrived in safety, and was full, we all rejoiced that we had not to wait for the arrival of a second before the colony could be restored to its former plenty.

From this difficult situation, we were soon relieved when the Justinian storeship, captained by Mr. Benjamin Maitland, arrived on the 20th from England after a brief journey of just five months. On the 2nd of this month, the day before the Lady Juliana's arrival, Mr. Maitland was near the entrance of the harbor and would have definitely been located by that ship anchored within the heads if not for a sudden change in the wind, combined with a current that pushed him as far north as Black Head, at latitude 32 degrees S. He nearly got caught in a severe gale but fortunately managed to ride it out, having to anchor close to some dangerous rocks. The wind was blowing straight towards the shore, and the rocks were so close when he anchored that the waves prevented him from putting much strain on his cable. If that cable had failed, we wouldn’t have seen the Justinian or her valuable cargo, which consisted of stored goods and provisions, indeed entrusted to one ship; but since she arrived safely and was fully loaded, we all celebrated that we didn’t have to wait for a second ship to restore the colony to its former abundance.

We now learned that three transports might be hourly expected, having on board the thousand convicts of whose destination we had received some information by the Lady Juliana, together with detachments of the corps raised for the service of this country. The remainder of this corps (which was intended to consist of three hundred men) were to come out in the Gorgon man of war, of forty-four guns. This ship was also to bring out Major Grose, who had been appointed lieutenant-governor of the territory in the room of Major Ross, which officer, together with the marines under his command, were intended to return to England in that ship.

We just learned that we can expect three transports to arrive every hour, carrying a thousand convicts whose destination we had heard about from the Lady Juliana, along with groups from the corps set up for the service of this country. The rest of this corps (which was supposed to have three hundred men) was going to come on the Gorgon, a warship with forty-four guns. This ship was also bringing Major Grose, who had been appointed lieutenant-governor of the territory to replace Major Ross, who, along with the marines under his command, was set to return to England on that ship.

Of the change which had been effected in the system of government in France we now first received information, and we heard with pleasure that it was not likely to interrupt the tranquillity of our own happy nation--happy in a constitution which might well excite the admiration and become the model of other states not so free.

Of the changes that had taken place in the government system in France, we were just now informed, and we were pleased to hear that it was unlikely to disturb the peace of our own happy nation—happy in a constitution that could easily inspire admiration and serve as a model for other less free states.

The Justinian had sailed on the 17th of last January from Falmouth, and touched only at St. Iago, avoiding, as she had not any convicts on board, the circuitous passage by the Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope.

The Justinian set sail on January 17th from Falmouth and made just one stop at St. Iago, skipping the longer route through Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope since there were no convicts on board.

On the day following her arrival, every thing seemed getting into its former train; the full ration was ordered to be issued; instead of daily, it was to be served weekly as formerly; and the drum for labour was to beat as usual in the afternoons at one o'clock. How general was the wish, that no future necessity might ever occasion another deduction in the ration, or an alteration in the labour of the people!

On the day after her arrival, everything seemed to be returning to normal; the full ration was set to be issued; instead of daily, it was going to be served weekly like before; and the drum for work was to sound as usual in the afternoons at one o'clock. Everyone hoped that no future need would ever lead to another cut in the ration or a change in the work of the people!

That Norfolk Island, whose situation at this time every one was fearful might call loudly for relief, should as quickly as possible reap her share of the benefit introduced among us by these arrivals, it was intended to send the Lady Juliana thither; and as she required some repairs, without which she could not proceed to sea, some carpenters from the shore were sent on board her, and employed to sheath her bends, which were extremely defective.

That Norfolk Island, which everyone was worried might urgently need help right now, should quickly benefit from the support brought by these newcomers, so it was decided to send the Lady Juliana there. Since she needed some repairs before she could set sail, a few carpenters from the shore were sent on board to work on her badly damaged hull.

A shop was opened on shore by the master of this ship, at the hut lately occupied as a bakehouse for the Supply, for the sale of some articles of grocery, glass, millinery, perfumery, and stationary; but the risk of bringing them out having been most injudiciously estimated too highly, as was evident from the increase on the first cost, which could not be disguised, they did not go off so quickly as the owners supposed they would.

A shop was set up on shore by the captain of this ship, in the hut that was recently used as a bakery for the Supply, to sell some grocery items, glassware, clothing, perfumes, and stationery. However, the risk of bringing these goods out was overestimated, as shown by the increased prices that were obvious to everyone. As a result, the products didn’t sell as quickly as the owners had expected.

A report having been circulated soon after the establishing of this settlement, that a considerable sum of money had been subscribed in England, to be expended in articles for the benefit of the convicts who embarked for this country, which articles had been entrusted to the Rev. Mr. Johnson, to be disposed of according to the intention of the subscribers after our arrival, Mr. Johnson wrote to his friends in England to confute this report; and by accounts lately received, it appeared that no such public collection had ever been made; at Mr. Johnson's request, therefore, the governor published a contradiction of the above report in the general orders of the settlement. The convicts had hitherto imagined that they had a right to the articles which had from time to time been distributed among them; but Mr. Johnson now thought it necessary that they should know it was to his bounty they were indebted for them, and that consequently the partakers of it were to be of his own selection.

A report circulated soon after this settlement was established, claiming that a significant sum of money had been raised in England to buy items for the benefit of the convicts who arrived in this country. These items were entrusted to Rev. Mr. Johnson to distribute according to the donors' intentions after our arrival. In response, Mr. Johnson wrote to his friends in England to deny this report, and recent accounts showed that no such public collection had ever taken place. At Mr. Johnson's request, the governor published a denial of this report in the settlement's general orders. The convicts had previously believed they had a right to the items distributed to them; however, Mr. Johnson felt it was necessary for them to understand that they owed these items to his generosity, and thus the recipients would be chosen by him.

The female convicts who had lately arrived attending at divine service on the first Sunday after their landing, Mr. Johnson, with much propriety, in his discourse, touched upon their situation, and described it so forcibly as to draw tears from many who were the least hardened among them.

The female convicts who had recently arrived were at church on the first Sunday after their landing. Mr. Johnson, quite appropriately, addressed their situation in his sermon and described it so vividly that it brought tears to the eyes of many who were least hardened among them.

Early in the morning of the 23rd, one of the men at the Lookout discerned a sail to the northward, but, the weather coming on thick, soon lost sight of it. The bad weather continuing, it was not seen again until the 25th, when word was brought up to the settlement, that a large ship, apparently under jury-masts, was seen in the offing; and on the following day the Surprise transport, Nicholas Anstis master (late chief mate of the Lady Penrhyn) anchored in the cove from England, having on board one captain, one lieutenant, one surgeon's mate, one serjeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty-three privates of the New South Wales corps; together with two hundred and eighteen male convicts. She sailed on the 19th of January from Portsmouth in company with two other transports, with whom she parted between the Cape of Good Hope and this place.

Early in the morning of the 23rd, one of the guys at the Lookout spotted a sail to the north, but as the weather turned bad, he quickly lost sight of it. Since the bad weather continued, it wasn't seen again until the 25th, when word came to the settlement that a large ship, apparently using jury-masts, was spotted offshore; and the next day, the Surprise transport, with Nicholas Anstis as captain (formerly the chief mate of the Lady Penrhyn), anchored in the cove after coming from England. On board were one captain, one lieutenant, one surgeon's mate, one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty-three privates of the New South Wales corps, along with two hundred and eighteen male convicts. She had set sail from Portsmouth on the 19th of January alongside two other transports, but they separated somewhere between the Cape of Good Hope and here.

We had the mortification to learn, that the prisoners in this ship were very unhealthy, upwards of one hundred being now in the sick list on board. They had been very sickly also during the passage, and had buried forty-two of these unfortunate people. A portable hospital had fortunately been received by the Justinian, and there now appeared but too great a probability that we should soon have patients enough to fill it; for the signal was flying at the South Head for the other transports, and we were led to expect them in as unhealthy a state as that which had just arrived.

We were embarrassed to find out that the prisoners on this ship were very sick, with over one hundred now on the sick list. They had also been quite ill during the journey, and we had buried forty-two of these unfortunate individuals. Luckily, a portable hospital had been brought on board the Justinian, and it seemed highly likely that we would soon have enough patients to fill it; the signal was up at the South Head for the other transports, and we were expecting them to arrive in just as poor health as those who had just gotten here.

On the evening of Monday the 28th, the Neptune and Scarborough transports anchored off Garden Island, and were warped into the cove the following morning.

On the evening of Monday the 28th, the Neptune and Scarborough transports anchored off Garden Island and were moved into the cove the next morning.

We were not mistaken in our expectations of the state in which they might arrive. By noon the following day, two hundred sick had been landed from the different transports. The west side afforded a scene truly distressing and miserable; upwards of thirty tents were pitched in front of the hospital, the portable one not being yet put up; all of which, as well as the hospital and the adjacent huts, were filled with people, many of whom were labouring under the complicated diseases of scurvy and the dysentery, and others in the last stage of either of those terrible disorders, or yielding to the attacks of an infectious fever.

We were right in our expectations of the condition in which they would arrive. By noon the next day, two hundred sick people had been brought in from the various transports. The west side presented a truly distressing and miserable scene; over thirty tents had been set up in front of the hospital, with the portable one yet to be assembled; all of these, along with the hospital and nearby huts, were filled with people, many of whom were suffering from the complicated diseases of scurvy and dysentery, and others in the final stages of either of those terrible illnesses, or succumbing to the effects of an infectious fever.

The appearance of those who did not require medical assistance was lean and emaciated. Several of these miserable people died in the boats as they were rowing on shore, or on the wharf as they were lifting out of the boats; both the living and the dead exhibiting more horrid spectacles than had ever been witnessed in this country. All this was to be attributed to confinement, and that of the worst species, confinement in a small space and in irons, not put on singly, but many of them chained together. On board the Scarborough a plan had been formed to take the ship, which would certainly have been attempted, but for a discovery which was fortunately made by one of the convicts (Samuel Burt) who had too much principle left to enter into it. This necessarily, on board that ship, occasioned much future circumspection; but Captain Marshall's humanity considerably lessened the severity which the insurgents might naturally have expected. On board the other ships, the masters, who had the entire direction of the prisoners, never suffered them to be at large on deck, and but few at a time were permitted there. This consequently gave birth to many diseases. It was said, that on board the Neptune several had died in irons; and what added to the horror of such a circumstance was, that their deaths were concealed, for the purpose of sharing their allowance of provisions, until chance, and the offensiveness of a corpse, directed the surgeon, or some one who had authority in the ship, to the spot where it lay.

The people who didn’t need medical help looked skinny and frail. Several of these unfortunate individuals died in the boats while trying to row to shore, or on the wharf as they were being lifted out; both the living and the dead presented a more horrifying sight than anyone had ever seen in this country. This was all due to confinement, and the worst kind at that—locked up in a small space and in chains, not just individually, but many of them chained together. On board the Scarborough, there was a plan to take the ship, which would likely have been attempted, if not for a discovery made by one of the convicts (Samuel Burt), who still had enough morals left not to go along with it. This led to increased caution on board that ship; however, Captain Marshall's compassion significantly reduced the harshness that the rebels might have expected. On the other ships, the captains, who had full control over the prisoners, never allowed them to roam freely on deck, and only a limited number were permitted there at any given time. This, in turn, resulted in many illnesses. It was reported that on board the Neptune, several had died in chains; what made this even more horrifying was that their deaths were kept hidden to continue sharing their food rations, until a chance encounter or the stench of a corpse alerted the surgeon or someone with authority on the ship to where it was located.

A contract had been entered into by government with Messrs. Calvert, Camden, and King, merchants of London, for the transporting of one thousand convicts, and government engaged to pay £17 7s 6d per head for every convict they embarked. This sum being as well for their provisions as for their transportation, no interest for their preservation was created in the owners, and the dead were more profitable (if profit alone was consulted by them, and the credit of their house was not at stake) than the living.

A contract was made between the government and Messrs. Calvert, Camden, and King, merchants from London, for the transportation of one thousand convicts. The government agreed to pay £17 7s 6d for each convict they boarded. This amount covered both their food and their transportation, which meant the owners had no incentive to keep the convicts alive. In fact, if profit was the only concern and their business reputation wasn't at risk, it would have been more profitable for them to have dead convicts than living ones.

The following accounts of the numbers who died on board each ship were given in by the masters:

The following reports of the number of people who died on each ship were provided by the captains:

                           Men  Women  Children
On board the Lady Juliana    0      5      2
On board the Surprise       42      0      0
On board the Scarborough    68      0      0
On board the Neptune       151     11      2
                           -----------------
Total                      261     16      4
                           -----------------

                           Men  Women  Children
On board the Lady Juliana    0      5      2
On board the Surprise       42      0      0
On board the Scarborough    68      0      0
On board the Neptune       151     11      2
                           -----------------
Total                      261     16      4
                           -----------------

All possible expedition was used to get the sick on shore; for even while they remained on board many died. The bodies were taken over to the north shore, and there interred.

All possible effort was made to get the sick ashore; even while they stayed on the ship, many died. The bodies were taken to the north shore and buried there.

Parties were immediately sent into the woods to collect the acid berry of the country, which for its extreme acetosity was deemed by the surgeons a most powerful antiscorbutic. Among other regulations, orders were given for baking a certain quantity of flour into pound loaves, to be distributed daily among the sick, as it was not in their power to prepare it themselves. Wine and other necessaries being given judiciously among those whose situations required such comforts, many of the wretches had recourse to stratagem to obtain more than their share by presenting themselves, under different names and appearances, to those who had the delivery of them, or by exciting the compassion of those who could order them.

Parties were immediately sent into the woods to gather the acid berry native to the area, which was considered by the surgeons to be a highly effective treatment for scurvy due to its extreme sourness. Among other rules, orders were issued to bake a specific amount of flour into pound loaves, which were to be handed out daily to the sick, as they were unable to prepare it for themselves. Wine and other essentials were distributed wisely to those whose circumstances required extra comfort. Many of the unfortunate individuals resorted to tricks to get more than their fair share by showing up under different names and appearances to those in charge of distribution, or by appealing to the sympathy of those who could grant them.

Blankets were immediately sent to the hospital in sufficient numbers to make every patient comfortable; notwithstanding which, they watched the moment when any one died to strip him of his covering (although dying themselves) and could only be prevented by the utmost vigilance from exercising such inhumanity in every instance.

Blankets were quickly sent to the hospital in enough quantity to keep every patient comfortable; despite this, they waited for the moment when someone died to take away their covering (even though they were dying themselves) and could only be stopped from showing such inhumanity in every case through extreme vigilance.

The detachment from the New South Wales corps, consisting of one captain, three subalterns, and a proportionate number of non-commissioned officers and privates, was immediately disembarked, and room being made in the marine barracks, they took possession of the quarters allotted for them.

The unit from the New South Wales corps, made up of one captain, three junior officers, and a suitable number of non-commissioned officers and privates, was quickly disembarked, and after making space in the marine barracks, they moved into the accommodations assigned to them.

Lieutenant Shapcote, the naval agent on board the Neptune, died between the Cape of Good Hope and this place. A son of this gentleman arrived in the Justinian, to which ship he belonged, and received the first account of his father's death, on going aboard the Neptune to congratulate him on his arrival.

Lieutenant Shapcote, the naval agent on board the Neptune, passed away between the Cape of Good Hope and here. A son of this man arrived on the Justinian, the ship he was part of, and got the first news of his father's death when he went aboard the Neptune to congratulate him on his arrival.

An instance of sagacity in a dog occurred on the arrival of the Scarborough, too remarkable to pass unnoticed; Mr. Marshall, the master of the ship, on quitting Port Jackson in May 1788, left a Newfoundland dog with Mr. Clark (the agent on the part of the contractor, who remained in the colony), which he had brought from England. On the return of his old master, Hector swam off to the ship, and getting on board, recognised him, and manifested, in every manner suitable to his nature, his Joy at seeing him; nor could the animal be persuaded to quit him again, accompanying him always when he went on shore, and returning with him on board.

An example of a dog's intelligence happened when the Scarborough arrived, and it was too impressive to ignore. Mr. Marshall, the captain of the ship, left a Newfoundland dog named Hector with Mr. Clark, the contractor's agent who stayed in the colony, when he departed from Port Jackson in May 1788. When his old master returned, Hector swam to the ship, got on board, recognized him, and showed his excitement in every way that suited a dog. The animal couldn’t be persuaded to leave his side, following him every time he went ashore and returning with him on board.

At a muster of the convicts which was directed during this month, one man only was unaccounted for, James Haydon. Soon after the muster was over, word was brought to the commissary, that his body had been found drowned in Long Cove, at the back of the settlement. Upon inquiry into the cause of his death, it appeared that he had a few days before stolen some tobacco out of an officer's garden in which he had been employed, and, being threatened with punishment, had absconded. He was considered as a well-behaved man; and if he preferred death to shame and punishment, which he had been heard to declare he did, and which his death seemed to confirm, he was deserving a better fate.

At a gathering of the convicts held this month, only one person was unaccounted for: James Haydon. Shortly after the gathering ended, the commissary was informed that his body had been found drowned in Long Cove, behind the settlement. Upon investigation into the cause of his death, it turned out that a few days earlier he had stolen some tobacco from an officer’s garden where he had been working, and after being threatened with punishment, he had run away. He was known to be a well-behaved man, and if he chose death over shame and punishment—which he had reportedly stated he would—and his death seems to support this, then he deserved a better fate.

The total number of sick on the last day of the month was three hundred and forty-nine.

The total number of sick people on the last day of the month was three hundred and forty-nine.

July.] The melancholy scenes which closed the last month appeared unchanged at the beginning of this. The morning generally opened with the attendants of the sick passing frequently backwards and forwards from the hospital to the burying-ground with the miserable victims of the night. Every exertion was made to get up the portable hospital; but, although we were informed that it had been put up in London in a very few hours, we did not complete it until the 7th, when it was instantly filled with patients. On the 13th, there were four hundred and eighty-eight persons under medical treatment at and about the hospital--a dreadful sick list!

July.] The sad scenes that ended last month seemed to persist at the start of this one. Mornings typically began with the hospital staff frequently moving back and forth between the hospital and the graveyard with the unfortunate victims from the night before. Every effort was made to set up the portable hospital; however, even though we were told it had been assembled in London in just a few hours, we didn't complete it until the 7th, when it was quickly filled with patients. By the 13th, there were four hundred and eighty-eight people receiving medical care at and around the hospital—a terrible number of sick individuals!

Such of the convicts from the ships as were in a tolerable state of health, both male and female, were sent up to Rose Hill, to be employed in agriculture and other labours. A subaltern's detachment from the New South Wales corps was at the same time sent up for the military duty of that settlement in conjunction with the marine corps.

Those convicts from the ships who were in decent health, both men and women, were sent to Rose Hill to work in farming and other tasks. A junior officer's unit from the New South Wales corps was also sent there for military duties alongside the marine corps.

There also the governor in the course of the month laid down the lines of a regular town. The principal street was marked out to extend one mile, commencing near the landing-place, and running in a direction west, to the foot of the rising ground named Rose Hill, and in which his excellency purposed to erect a small house for his own residence whenever he should visit that settlement. On each side of this street, whose width was to be two hundred and five feet, huts were to be erected capable of containing ten persons each, and at the distance of sixty feet one from the other; and garden ground for each hut was allotted in the rear. As the huts were to be built of such combustible materials as wattles and plaster, and to be covered with thatch, the width of the street, and the distance they were placed from each other, operated as an useful precaution against fire; and by beginning on so wide a scale the inhabitants of the town at some future day would possess their own accommodations and comforts more readily, each upon his own allotment, than if crowded into a small space.

There, the governor outlined the layout of a new town during the month. The main street was designated to stretch one mile, starting near the landing area and running west toward the base of the hill called Rose Hill, where the governor planned to build a small house for himself whenever he visited the settlement. On either side of this street, which was set to be two hundred and five feet wide, huts would be built, each capable of housing ten people and spaced sixty feet apart. There would also be garden space allocated behind each hut. Since the huts were to be made of flammable materials like wattles and plaster, topped with thatch, the width of the street and the spacing between them served as a useful fire prevention measure. By starting with such a broad layout, the future residents would be able to enjoy their own space and comforts more easily on their individual lots, rather than being crammed into a small area.

View of the Governor's house at Rose Hill in the township of Parramatta.

View of the governor's house at Rose Hill in the township of Parramatta.

While these works were going on at Rose Hill, the labouring convicts at Sydney were employed in constructing a new brick storehouse, discharging the transports, and forming a road from the town to the brick-kilns, for the greater ease and expedition in bringing in bricks to the different buildings.

While these projects were happening at Rose Hill, the convict workers in Sydney were busy building a new brick storehouse, unloading the ships, and creating a road from the town to the brick kilns, making it easier and faster to bring in bricks for the various buildings.

Our stores now wore a more respectable appearance than they had done for some time. In addition to the provisions put on board the transports in England, Lieutenant Riou had forwarded by those ships four hundred tierces of beef and two hundred tierces of pork, which he had saved from the wreck of the Guardian, and which we had the satisfaction to find were nothing the worse for the accident which befel her. These, with the seventy-five casks of flour which were brought on by the Lady Juliana, formed the amount of what we were now to receive of the large cargo of that unfortunate ship.

Our stores now looked much more respectable than they had in a while. Along with the supplies loaded onto the transports in England, Lieutenant Riou had sent four hundred tierces of beef and two hundred tierces of pork by those ships, which he had salvaged from the wreck of the Guardian. We were pleased to find that they were in perfect condition despite the accident that happened to her. Together with the seventy-five casks of flour brought over by the Lady Juliana, this made up the total amount we were set to receive from the large cargo of that unfortunate ship.

Lieutenant Riou also sent by these ships the twenty male convicts which had been selected as artificers and put on board the Guardian in England; and with them he sent the most pointed recommendations in their favour, describing their conduct, both before and after the accident which happened to the ship under his command, in the strongest terms of approbation.

Lieutenant Riou also sent on these ships the twenty male convicts who had been chosen as skilled workers and put on board the Guardian in England; along with them, he sent strong recommendations in their favor, highlighting their behavior both before and after the incident that occurred with the ship he was in charge of, using the strongest words of praise.

The Lady Juliana being found on inspection to require such extensive repairs as would too long delay the dispatching the necessary supplies to Norfolk Island, the governor directed the Surprise transport and Justinian storeship to proceed thither.

The Lady Juliana, after inspection, was found to need extensive repairs that would significantly delay sending the necessary supplies to Norfolk Island. The governor ordered the Surprise transport and Justinian storeship to head there instead.

By the 19th, the Justinian was cleared of her cargo, excepting about five hundred casks of provisions, which were not to be taken out until she arrived at Norfolk Island; and both that ship and the Surprise were preparing with all expedition for sailing. The Justinian, however, from the circumstance of retaining some part of her large cargo on board, was ready first, and sailed on the 28th. The master, Mr. Benjamin Maitland, was directed to follow his former orders after landing his stores and provisions at Norfolk Island, and proceed to Canton to freight home with teas upon account of government. She was hired by the month at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton, and was to be in government employ until her return to Deptford. By this ship the governor sent dispatches to the secretary of state.

By the 19th, the Justinian had finished unloading her cargo, keeping only about five hundred casks of supplies, which wouldn’t be removed until she reached Norfolk Island. Both that ship and the Surprise were getting ready to sail as quickly as possible. However, since the Justinian still had some of her large cargo on board, she was ready first and set sail on the 28th. The captain, Mr. Benjamin Maitland, was instructed to follow his previous orders after unloading his supplies at Norfolk Island and then head to Canton to load up with teas for the government. She was hired by the month at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton and was to remain in government service until she returned to Deptford. The governor used this ship to send dispatches to the secretary of state.

The Lady Juliana, having received some repairs by the carpenters of the colony at the time when it was designed she should to Norfolk Island, and some others by the assistance of her own carpenters, sailed a day or two after the Justinian for Canton. From the extravagant price set on his goods by the master, his shop had turned out badly; and it was said that he took many articles to sea, which he must of necessity throw overboard before he reached Canton.

The Lady Juliana, after getting some repairs done by the colony’s carpenters when it was planned to head to Norfolk Island, and some additional work by her own crew, set sail a day or two after the Justinian for Canton. The master’s outrageous pricing on his goods led to poor sales, and it was rumored that he took several items to sea that he would inevitably have to throw overboard before reaching Canton.

The governor received by these ships dispatches from the secretary of state, containing, among other articles of information, instructions respecting the granting of lands and the allotting of ground in townships. Soon after their arrival it was declared in public orders:

The governor received dispatches from the secretary of state via these ships, which included, among other information, instructions on granting land and allocating space in townships. Shortly after their arrival, it was announced in public orders:

That, in consequence of the assurances that were given to the non-commissioned officers and men belonging to the detachment of marines, on their embarking for the service of this country, that such of them as should behave well should be allowed to quit the service on their return to England, or be discharged abroad upon the relief, and permitted to settle in the country; his Majesty had been graciously pleased to direct the following terms to be held out as an encouragement to such non-commissioned officers and private men of the marines as might be desirous of becoming settlers in this country, or in any of the islands comprised within the government of the continent* of New South Wales, on the arrival of the corps raised and intended for the service of this country, and for their relief, viz.

That, as a result of the promises made to the non-commissioned officers and men of the marine detachment when they joined the service for this country, that those who behaved well would be allowed to leave the service upon their return to England, or be discharged abroad when relieved and permitted to settle in the country; His Majesty has graciously decided to offer the following terms as an encouragement to non-commissioned officers and private marines who might want to become settlers in this country, or in any of the islands under the government of the continent of New South Wales, when the corps raised for this country's service arrives for their relief, namely:

[* Now so called officially for the first time.]

[* Now officially referred to for the first time.]

To every non-commissioned officer, an allotment of one hundred and thirty acres of land if single, and one hundred and fifty if married.

To every non-commissioned officer, an allocation of one hundred thirty acres of land if single, and one hundred fifty if married.

To every private man, eighty acres of land if single, one hundred if married; and ten acres of land for each child at the time of granting the allotment; free of all fees, taxes, quit-rents, and other acknowledgments, for the term of five years; at the expiration of which term to be liable to an annual quit-rent of one shilling for every fifty acres.

To each individual, eighty acres of land if single, one hundred if married; and ten acres for each child when the land is granted; free from all fees, taxes, quit-rents, and other payments for five years; after which, there will be an annual quit-rent of one shilling for every fifty acres.

As a further encouragement, a bounty was offered of three pounds per man to every non-commissioned officer and private man who would enlist in the new corps (to form a company to be officered from the marines) and an allotment of double the above proportion of land if they behaved well for five years, to be granted them at the expiration of that time; the said allotments not to be subject to any fee or tax for ten years, and then to be liable to an annual quit-rent of one shilling for every fifty acres.

As an added incentive, a reward of three pounds was offered to every non-commissioned officer and private who enlisted in the new corps (to create a company led by marines). Additionally, they would receive twice the amount of land mentioned above if they performed well for five years, to be granted to them at the end of that period; these land grants would not be subject to any fees or taxes for ten years, after which they would incur an annual quit-rent of one shilling for every fifty acres.

And upon their discharge at either of the above periods they were to be supplied with clothing and one year's provisions, with feed grain, tools, and implements of agriculture. The service of a certain number of convicts was to be assigned to them for their labour when they could make it appear that they could maintain, feed, and clothe them. In these instructions no mention was made of granting lands to officers; and to other persons who might emigrate and be desirous of settling in this country, no greater proportion of land was to be allotted than what was to be granted to a non-commissioned officer of the marines.

And when they were released during either of those periods, they were to be given clothing and provisions for a year, along with feed grain, tools, and farming equipment. A certain number of convicts would be assigned to them for labor if they could prove they could provide for, feed, and clothe them. These instructions did not mention granting land to officers; and for others who might immigrate and want to settle in this country, no more land would be allocated than what would be given to a non-commissioned officer of the marines.

Government, between every allotment, reserved to itself a space on either side, which, as crown land, was equal to the largest grant, not to be granted, but leased only to individuals for the term of fourteen years.

Government, between each allotment, set aside a space on both sides, which, as crown land, was equal to the largest grant, not to be given away, but leased to individuals for a period of fourteen years.

Provision was made for the church, by allotting in each township which should be marked out four hundred acres for the maintenance of a minister; and half of that number was to be allotted for the maintenance of a school master.

Provision was made for the church by setting aside four hundred acres in each township designated for the support of a minister, and half of that amount was reserved for the support of a schoolmaster.

If the allotments should happen to be made on the banks of any navigable river or creek, care was to be taken that the breadth of each track did not extend along the banks thereof more than one-third of the length of such track, in order that no settler should engross more than his proportion of the benefit which would accrue from such a situation. And it was also directed, that the good and the bad land should be as equally divided as circumstances would allow.

If the plots were to be assigned along the banks of any navigable river or creek, it was important that the width of each plot did not exceed one-third of its length along those banks, so that no settler would claim more than their fair share of the advantages from that location. It was also instructed that the land, both good and bad, should be divided as equally as possible given the circumstances.

No new regulations were directed to take place in respect of granting lands to convicts emancipated or discharged; the original instructions, under which each male convict if single was to have thirty, if married fifty, and ten acres for every child he might have at the time of settling, remained in force.

No new rules were put in place regarding the granting of land to released or pardoned convicts; the original guidelines, stating that each single male convict would receive thirty acres, married convicts fifty acres, and ten acres for each child they had at the time of settlement, continued to apply.

The particular conditions required by the crown from a settler were, the residing upon the ground, proceeding to the improvement and cultivation of his allotment, and reserving such of the timber thereof as might be fit for naval purposes for the use of his Majesty.

The specific conditions that the crown required from a settler were to live on the land, work on improving and cultivating their plot, and to set aside any timber that could be used for naval purposes for the use of the King.

The period fixed by government for victualling a settler from the public stores, twelve months, was in general looked upon as too short, and it was thought not practicable for any one at the end of that period to maintain himself, unless during that time he should have very great assistance given him, and be fortunate in his crops.

The timeframe set by the government for supplying a settler from public stores, which was twelve months, was generally seen as too brief. It was believed that no one could manage to support themselves by the end of that period unless they received substantial help during that time and had good luck with their crops.

About the latter end of this month a spermaceti whale was seen in the harbour, and some boats from the transports went after it with harpoons; but, from the ignorance of the people in the use of them, the fish escaped unhurt. In a few days afterwards word was received that a punt belonging to Lieutenant Poulden had been pursued by a whale and overset, by which accident young Mr. Ferguson (a midshipman of the Sirius) and two soldiers were unfortunately drowned. The soldiers, with another of their companions, who saved his life by swimming, had been down the harbour fishing, and, calling at the Look-out, took in Mr. Ferguson, who had sat up all the preceding night to write to his father, Captain James Ferguson, lieutenant-governor of Greenwich hospital, and was now bringing his letters to Sydney for the purpose of sending them by the Justinian.

Towards the end of this month, a sperm whale was spotted in the harbor, and some boats from the transport ships went after it with harpoons. However, due to the crew's lack of experience with them, the whale got away unharmed. A few days later, it was reported that a small boat belonging to Lieutenant Poulden had been chased by a whale and capsized, resulting in the tragic drowning of young Mr. Ferguson (a midshipman from the Sirius) and two soldiers. The soldiers, along with another companion who managed to survive by swimming, had been fishing in the harbor and, after stopping at the Look-out, picked up Mr. Ferguson, who had stayed up all night writing to his father, Captain James Ferguson, the lieutenant-governor of Greenwich Hospital, and was now taking his letters to Sydney to send them with the Justinian.

Mr. Ferguson was a steady well-disposed young man, and the service, in all probability, by this extraordinary accident, lost a good officer.

Mr. Ferguson was a reliable and kind young man, and the service likely lost a good officer due to this unexpected incident.

The Scarborough was cleared this month, and, being discharged from government employ, the master was left at liberty to proceed to Canton, where he was to load home with teas.

The Scarborough was cleared this month, and, having been released from government service, the captain was free to head to Canton, where he was supposed to load up with teas for the journey home.

Much irregularity was committed by the seamen of the transports, who found means to get on shore at night, notwithstanding the port orders; and one, a sailor from the Neptune, was punished with twenty-five lashes for being found on shore without any permission at eleven o'clock at night.

Much disorder was caused by the transport sailors, who managed to go ashore at night despite the port orders; one sailor from the Neptune was given twenty-five lashes for being found on shore without permission at eleven o'clock at night.

The sick list, now consisting of only three hundred and thirty-two persons, was found to be daily decreasing, and the mortality was infinitely less at the end, than at the beginning of the month.

The sick list, now down to only three hundred and thirty-two people, was found to be decreasing daily, and the mortality rate was significantly lower at the end than at the beginning of the month.

August.] The Surprise transport sailed on the first of August for Norfolk Island, having on board thirty-five male and one hundred and fifty female convicts, two of the superintendants lately arrived, and one deputy commissary, Mr. Thomas Freeman, appointed such by the governor's warrant. There came out in the Neptune a person of the name of Wentworth, who, being desirous of some employment in this country, was now sent to Norfolk Island to act as an assistant to the surgeon there, being reputed to have the necessary requisites for such a situation.

August.] The Surprise transport set sail on August 1st for Norfolk Island, carrying thirty-five men and one hundred and fifty women convicts, two recently arrived superintendents, and one deputy commissary, Mr. Thomas Freeman, who was appointed by the governor's warrant. A person named Wentworth came on the Neptune, who, looking for work in this country, was sent to Norfolk Island to assist the surgeon there, believed to have the necessary qualifications for the job.

On the 8th, the Scarborough sailed for Canton, and the Neptune was preparing to follow her as soon as she could be cleared of the cargo she had on board upon account of government. While this was delivering, some of the convicts who came out in that ship put in before the judge-advocate their claims upon the master, Mr. Donald Trail, not only for clothing and other articles, but for money, which they stated to have been taken from them at the time of their embarkation, and had never since been returned to them. Many of these claims were disputed by Mr. Trail, and others were settled to the satisfaction of the claimants; but of their clothing, knives, buckles, etc. he could give no other account, than that he was directed by the naval agent, Lieutenant Shapcote, to destroy them at their embarkation for obvious reasons, tending to the safety of the ship and for the preservation of their healths.

On the 8th, the Scarborough set sail for Canton, and the Neptune was getting ready to follow as soon as it could clear its cargo due to government requirements. While this was being unloaded, some of the convicts who came on that ship brought their claims before the judge-advocate against the master, Mr. Donald Trail, not only for clothing and other items but also for money they said was taken from them when they boarded and had never been returned. Many of these claims were disputed by Mr. Trail, while others were resolved to the satisfaction of the claimants; however, regarding their clothing, knives, buckles, etc., he could only say he was ordered by the naval agent, Lieutenant Shapcote, to dispose of them at the time of embarkation for clear reasons related to the safety of the ship and the well-being of the convicts.

On the 19th the Neptune was cleared and discharged the service, having landed the cargo she brought out on government account in good condition. Preparatory to her sailing for China, she quitted the cove on the 22nd; soon after which, information being received that several convicts purposed to attempt making their escape in her from the colony, a small armed party of soldiers was sent on board her, under the direction of Lieutenant Long* of the marines, to search the ship, when one man and one woman were found on board. The man was one who had just arrived in the colony, and, being soon tired of his situation, had prevailed on some of the people to secrete him among the fire-wood which they had taken on board. In the night another person swam off to the ship, and was received by the guard. He pleaded being a free man, but as he had taken a very improper mode of quitting the colony, he was, by order of the governor, punished the day following, together with the convict who had been found concealed among the fire-wood. The Neptune sailed on the 24th, leaving behind her one mate Mr. Forfar, and two seamen; and the cove was once more without a ship.

On the 19th, the Neptune was cleared and officially released from service after successfully unloading her government cargo in good condition. To prepare for her journey to China, she left the cove on the 22nd. Shortly after, it was reported that several convicts planned to escape in her from the colony, so a small group of armed soldiers, led by Lieutenant Long* of the marines, was sent on board to search the ship. They found one man and one woman hiding there. The man had just arrived in the colony and, tired of his situation, had convinced some people to hide him among the firewood they loaded on board. That night, another person swam to the ship and was taken in by the guard. He claimed to be a free man, but since he had tried to leave the colony inappropriately, he was punished the next day by the governor, along with the convict found among the firewood. The Neptune set sail on the 24th, leaving behind her mate, Mr. Forfar, and two sailors, and the cove was once again without a ship.

[* Appointed by Governor Plillip, after the arrival of the New South Wales corps, to do the duty of town-adjutant.]

[* Appointed by Governor Phillip, after the New South Wales corps arrived, to serve as the town adjutant.]

An excursion into the country had been undertaken this month by Captain Tench and some other officers. They were absent six days, and on their return we learned, that they had proceeded in a direction SSW of Rose Hill; that they met with fresh water running to the northward; found the traces of natives wherever they went, and passed through a very bad country intersected every where with deep ravines. They had reason to think, that in rainy weather the run of water which they met with rose above its ordinary level between thirty and forty feet. They saw a flock of emus twelve in number.

This month, Captain Tench and a few other officers took a trip into the countryside. They were gone for six days, and upon their return, we found out they had traveled SSW of Rose Hill. They discovered fresh water flowing north, saw signs of Indigenous people wherever they went, and went through a tough area filled with deep ravines. They believed that during rainy weather, the water flow they encountered rose above its usual level by about thirty to forty feet. They also spotted a flock of twelve emus.

It having been found that the arms and ammunition which were entrusted to the convicts residing at the distant farms for their protection against the natives, were made a very different use of, an order was given recalling them, and prohibiting any convicts from going out with arms, except McIntire, Burn, and Randall, who were licensed game-killers.

It was discovered that the arms and ammunition given to the convicts living at the remote farms for protection against the locals were used for a completely different purpose. An order was issued to recall them and to prohibit any convicts from carrying arms, except for McIntire, Burn, and Randall, who were licensed to hunt game.

The clergyman complaining of non-attendance at divine service, which it must be observed was generally performed in the open air, alike unsheltered from wind and rain, as from the fervor of the summer's sun, it was ordered that three pounds of flour should be deducted from the ration of each overseer, and two pounds from that of each labouring convict, who should not attend prayers once on each Sunday, unless some reasonable excuse for their absence should be assigned.

The clergyman complained about people not attending church services, which, it should be noted, were usually held outdoors, exposed to the wind and rain as well as the blazing summer sun. It was decided that three pounds of flour would be deducted from the rations of each overseer and two pounds from each laboring convict if they didn't attend prayers at least once every Sunday, unless they provided a valid reason for their absence.

Toward the latter end of the month a criminal court was held for the trial of Hugh Low, a convict, who had been in the Guardian, and who was in custody for stealing a sheep, the property of Mr. Palmer the commissary. Being most clearly convicted of the offence by the evidence of an accomplice and others, he received sentence of death, and, the governor not deeming it advisable to pardon an offence of that nature, suffered the next day, acknowledging the commission of the fact for which he died.

Toward the end of the month, a criminal court was held to try Hugh Low, a convict who had been in the Guardian and was in custody for stealing a sheep owned by Mr. Palmer, the commissary. He was clearly found guilty based on the testimony of an accomplice and others. He was sentenced to death, and since the governor did not think it wise to pardon such a serious crime, he was executed the next day, admitting to the crime for which he was put to death.

The preservation of our stock was an object of so much consequence to the colony, that it became indispensably necessary to protect it by every means in our power. Had any lenity been extended to this offender on account of his good conduct in a particular situation, it might have been the cause of many depredations being made upon the stock, which it was hoped his punishment would prevent.

The protection of our livestock was incredibly important to the colony, so it was absolutely necessary to safeguard it by all means available to us. If any leniency had been shown to this offender because of his good behavior in a specific situation, it could have led to a lot of damage to the livestock, which we hoped his punishment would stop.

On the 28th a pair of shoes were served to each convict. The female convicts were employed in making the slops for the men, which had been now sent out unmade. Each woman who could work at her needle had materials for two shirts given her at a time, and while so employed was not to be taken for any other labour.

On the 28th, each convict received a pair of shoes. The female convicts were tasked with making the clothing for the men, which had now been sent out without being made. Each woman who could sew was given materials for two shirts at a time and, while working on this, was not to be assigned to any other tasks.

The storehouse which was begun in July was finished this month, and was got up and covered in without any rain. Its dimensions were one hundred feet by twenty-two.

The storehouse that started construction in July was completed this month, and it was built and covered without any rain. Its dimensions were one hundred feet by twenty-two.

At Rose Hill the convicts were employed in constructing the new town which had been marked out, building the huts, and forming the principal street. The governor, who personally directed all these works, caused a spot of ground for a capacious garden to be allotted for the use of the New South Wales corps, contiguous to the spot whereon his excellency meant to erect the barracks for that corps.

At Rose Hill, the prisoners were busy building the new town that had been laid out, constructing the huts, and creating the main street. The governor, who oversaw all of these projects himself, set aside an area of land for a large garden for the New South Wales corps, close to where he planned to build the barracks for them.

In addition to the flagstaff which had been erected on the South Head of the harbour, the governor determined to construct a column, of a height sufficient to be seen from some distance at sea, and the stonemasons were sent down to quarry stone upon the spot for the building.

In addition to the flagpole that was put up on the South Head of the harbor, the governor decided to build a column tall enough to be visible from a distance at sea, and the stonemasons were sent to the location to quarry stone for the construction.

The body of one of the unfortunate people who were drowned at the latter end of July last with Mr. Ferguson was found about the close of this month, washed on shore in Rose Bay, and very much disfigured. The whale which occasioned this accident, we were informed, had never found its way out of the harbour, but, getting on shore in Manly Bay, was killed by the natives, and was the cause of numbers of them being at this time assembled to partake of the repasts which it afforded them.

The body of one of the unfortunate individuals who drowned at the end of July with Mr. Ferguson was discovered at the end of this month, washed ashore in Rose Bay and severely disfigured. The whale that caused this incident, we were told, never made it out of the harbor; instead, it ended up on the beach in Manly Bay, where it was killed by the locals, leading to many of them gathering to enjoy the meals it provided.

CHAPTER XI

Governor Phillip injured by a local
Contact established with the locals
Large catch of fish
Prisoners escape with a boat
Projects
Lack of rain
Locals
Supply returns from Batavia
Activities there
Criminal Courts
James Bloodworth released
Oars discovered in the woods
A prisoner returned in the Supply
A boat with five people missing
Public projects
A prisoner injured by a local
Armed groups sent out to retaliate
A Dutch ship arrives with supplies from Batavia
Reduction due to illness and casualties in 1790

September.] Since the escape of Bennillong the native in May last, nothing had been heard of him, nor had any thing worthy of notice occurred among the other natives. In the beginning of this month, however, they were brought forward again by a circumstance which seemed at first to threaten the colony with a loss that must have been for some time severely felt; but which was succeeded by an opening of that amicable intercourse with these people which the governor had always laboured to establish, and which was at last purchased by a most unpleasant accident to himself, and at the risk of his life.

September.] Since Bennillong, the native, escaped in May, there had been no news of him, nor anything noteworthy happening among the other natives. However, at the start of this month, a situation arose that initially seemed to threaten the colony with a loss that would be deeply felt for a time. This was followed by the beginning of a friendly relationship with these people that the governor had always aimed to create, which ultimately came about due to a rather unfortunate incident involving him, and at the risk of his life.

The governor, who had uniformly directed every undertaking in person since the formation of the colony, went down in the morning of the 7th to the South Head, accompanied by Captain Collins and Lieutenant Waterhouse, to give some instructions to the people employed in erecting a column at that place. As he was returning to the settlement, he received information, by a boat which had landed Mr. White and some other gentlemen in the lower part of the harbour (they were going on an excursion towards Broken Bay) that Bennillong had been seen there by Mr. White, and had sent the governor as a present a piece of the whale which was then lying in the wash of the surf on the beach. Anxious to see him again, the governor, after taking some arms from the party at the Look-out, which he thought the more requisite in this visit as he heard the cove was full of natives, went down and landed at the place where the whale was lying. Here he not only saw Bennillong, but Cole-be also, who had made his escape from the governor's house a few days after his capture. At first his excellency trusted himself alone with these people; but the few months Bennillong had been away had so altered his person, that the governor, until joined by Mr. Collins and Mr. Waterhouse, did not perfectly recollect his old acquaintance. Bennillong had been always much attached to Mr. Collins, and testified with much warmth his satisfaction at seeing him again. Several articles of wearing apparel were now given to him and his companions (taken for that purpose from the people in the boat, who, all but one man, remained on their oars to be ready in case of any accident), and a promise was exacted from the governor by Bennillong to return in two days with more, and also with some hatchets or tomahawks. The cove was full of natives allured by the attractions of a whale feast; and it being remarked during the conference that the twenty or thirty which appeared were drawing themselves into a circle round the governor and his small unarmed party (for that was literally and most inexcusably their situation) the governor proposed retiring to the boat by degrees; but Bennillong, who had presented to him several natives by name, pointed out one, whom the governor, thinking to take particular notice of, stepped forward to meet, holding out both his hands toward him. The savage not understanding this civility, and perhaps thinking that he was going to seize him as a prisoner, lifted a spear from the grass with his foot, and fixing it on his throwing-stick, in an instant darted it at the governor. The spear entered a little above the collar bone, and had been discharged with such force, that the barb of it came through on the other side. Several other spears were thrown, but happily no further mischief was effected. The spear was with difficulty broken by Lieutenant Waterhouse, and while the governor was leading down to the boat the people landed with the arms, but of four muskets which they brought on shore one only could be fired.

The governor, who had personally managed every task since the colony was established, went down to South Head in the morning of the 7th, accompanied by Captain Collins and Lieutenant Waterhouse, to give some instructions to the crew working on a column there. On his way back to the settlement, he got word from a boat that had dropped off Mr. White and a few other gentlemen in the lower part of the harbor (they were heading towards Broken Bay) that Bennillong had been spotted by Mr. White and had sent the governor a piece of whale from the beach where it was resting. Eager to see him again, the governor took some weapons from the lookout party, thinking they would be necessary since he heard the area was crowded with natives, and went down to where the whale was. There, he not only saw Bennillong but also Cole-be, who had escaped from the governor’s house a few days after being captured. At first, the governor felt comfortable being alone with them, but Bennillong had changed so much in just a few months that the governor did not fully recognize him until Mr. Collins and Mr. Waterhouse joined him. Bennillong had always been very fond of Mr. Collins and happily expressed his joy at seeing him again. Several items of clothing were given to Bennillong and his friends (taken from the people in the boat, who, except for one man, stayed on their oars ready in case of trouble), and Bennillong made the governor promise to come back in two days with more supplies as well as some hatchets or tomahawks. The cove was packed with natives drawn in by the chance of a whale feast; and during the meeting, it was noted that the twenty or thirty natives present were forming a circle around the governor and his small, unarmed group (which was truly and quite dangerously their situation). The governor suggested they gradually head back to the boat, but Bennillong had introduced several natives by name and pointed out one in particular. The governor, wanting to acknowledge him specially, stepped forward with both hands outstretched. The native, not understanding this gesture and possibly thinking he was about to be captured, grabbed a spear from the grass with his foot, set it on his throwing-stick, and quickly threw it at the governor. The spear struck just above the collarbone with such force that the barb came out on the other side. Some other spears were thrown, but fortunately, there were no further injuries. Lieutenant Waterhouse managed to break the spear, and as the governor led the way back to the boat, the team landed with the weapons; however, only one out of the four muskets they brought ashore could be fired.

The boat had five miles to row before it reached the settlement; but the people in her exerting themselves to the utmost, the governor was landed and in his house in something less than two hours. The spear was extracted with much skill by Mr. Balmain, one of the assistant-surgeons of the hospital, who immediately pronounced the wound not mortal. An armed party was dispatched that evening toward Broken Bay for Mr. White, the principal surgeon, who returned the following day, and reported that in the cove where the whale lay they saw several natives; but being armed nothing had happened.

The boat had five miles to row before it reached the settlement, but the people on board pushed themselves to the limit, and the governor was safely ashore and in his house in just under two hours. Mr. Balmain, one of the hospital's assistant surgeons, skillfully removed the spear and quickly declared the wound not fatal. That evening, an armed group was sent toward Broken Bay to fetch Mr. White, the chief surgeon, who returned the next day and reported that in the cove where the whale was, they noticed several natives; however, since they were armed, nothing happened.

No other motive could be assigned for this conduct in the savage, than the supposed apprehension that he was about to be seized by the governor, which the circumstance of his advancing toward him with his hands held out might create. But it certainly would not have happened had the precaution of taking even a single musket on shore been attended to. The governor had always placed too great a confidence in these people, under an idea that the sight of fire arms would deter them from approaching; he had now, however, been taught a lesson which it might be presumed he would never forget.

No other reason could explain this behavior in the savage except for the fear that he was about to be captured by the governor, which the situation of him approaching with his hands out might have suggested. However, this wouldn’t have occurred if they had just taken a single musket ashore as a precaution. The governor had always trusted these people too much, believing that seeing firearms would scare them away; he had now learned a lesson that he would likely never forget.

This accident gave cause to the opening of a communication between the natives of this country and the settlement, which, although attended with such an unpromising beginning, it was hoped would be followed with good consequences.

This accident led to the start of communication between the locals of this country and the settlement, which, despite such a discouraging start, was hoped to lead to positive outcomes.

A few days after the accident, Bennillong, who certainly had not any culpable share in the transaction, came with his wife and some of his companions to a cove on the north shore not far from the settlement, where, by means of Boo-roong, the female who lived in the clergyman's house, an interview was effected between the natives and some officers, Mr. White, Mr. Palmer, and others, who at some personal risk went over with her.

A few days after the accident, Bennillong, who definitely wasn't responsible for what happened, came with his wife and some friends to a cove on the north shore, not far from the settlement. With the help of Boo-roong, the woman who lived in the clergyman's house, a meeting was arranged between the natives and some officers, including Mr. White, Mr. Palmer, and others, who bravely accompanied her.

At this time the name of the man who had wounded the governor was first known, Wil-le-me-ring; and Bennillong made many attempts to fix a belief that he had beaten him severely for the aggression. Bennillong declared that he should wait in that situation for some days, and hoped that the governor would be able, before the expiration of them, to visit him. On the tenth day after he had received the wound, his excellency was so far recovered as to go to the place, accompanied by several officers all armed, where he saw Bennillong and his companions. Bennillong then repeated his assurances of his having, in conjunction with his friend Cole-be, severely beaten Wille-me-ring; and added that his throwing the spear at the governor was entirely the effect of his fears, and done from the impulse of self-preservation.

At that time, the name of the man who had injured the governor became known: Wil-le-me-ring. Bennillong tried hard to convince everyone that he had seriously hurt Wil-le-me-ring in retaliation. Bennillong stated that he would remain in that position for a few days and hoped the governor would be able to visit him before then. On the tenth day after the injury, the governor had recovered enough to visit the location, accompanied by several armed officers, where he met Bennillong and his friends. Bennillong then reiterated his claims that, along with his friend Cole-be, he had seriously beaten Wil-le-me-ring, adding that Wil-le-me-ring throwing the spear at the governor was purely an act of fear and a desperate attempt at self-preservation.

The day preceding the governor's visit, the fishing boats had the greatest success which had yet been met with; near four thousand of a fish, named by us, from its shape only, the salmon, being taken at two hauls of the seine. Each fish weighed on an average about five pounds; they were issued to this settlement, and to that at Rose Hill; and thirty or forty were sent as a conciliating present to Bennillong and his party on the north shore.

The day before the governor's visit, the fishing boats had their best catch ever; nearly four thousand fish, which we called salmon just because of its shape, were caught in two seine hauls. Each fish weighed about five pounds on average; they were distributed to this settlement and the one at Rose Hill, and thirty or forty were sent as a friendly gift to Bennillong and his group on the north shore.

These circumstances, and the visit to the natives, in which it was endeavoured to convince them that no animosity was retained on account of the late accident, nor resentment harboured against any but the actual perpetrator of the fact, created a variety in the conversation of the day; and those who were desirous of acquiring the language were glad of the opportunity which the recently-opened intercourse seemed to promise them.

These circumstances, along with the visit to the locals, aimed to assure them that there were no hard feelings about the recent incident, and that resentment was only directed at the person responsible. This led to a lively conversation that day, and those who wanted to learn the language were excited about the opportunity that the new interactions seemed to offer them.

In the night of the 26th a desertion of an extraordinary nature took place. Five male convicts conveyed themselves, in a small boat called a punt, from Rose Hill undiscovered. They there exchanged the punt, which would have been unfit for their purpose, for a boat, though very small and weak, with a mast and sail, with which they got out of the harbour. On sending to Rose Hill, people were found who could give an account of their intentions and proceedings, and who knew that they purposed steering for Otaheite. They had each taken provisions for one week; their cloaths and bedding; three iron pots, and some other utensils of that nature. They all came out in the last fleet, and took this method of speedily accomplishing their sentences of transportation, which were for the term of their natural lives. Their names were, John Tarwood, a daring, desperate character, and the principal in the scheme; Joseph Sutton, who was found secreted on board the Neptune and punished; George Lee; George Connoway, and John Watson. A boat with an officer was sent to search for them in the north-west branch of this harbour, but returned, after several hours search, without discovering the least trace of them. They no doubt pushed directly out upon that ocean which, from the wretched state of the boat wherein they trusted themselves, must have proved their grave.

On the night of the 26th, an extraordinary desertion occurred. Five male convicts managed to escape, in a small boat called a punt, from Rose Hill without being noticed. They exchanged the punt, which wasn't suitable for their escape, for a very small and weak boat with a mast and sail, which allowed them to get out of the harbor. When people were sent to Rose Hill, they found individuals who could share information about the convicts' plans and who knew they intended to head for Otaheite. Each convict had packed enough food for a week, their clothes and bedding, three iron pots, and a few other kitchen items. They had all arrived in the last fleet and chose this method to quickly escape their transportation sentences, which were for life. Their names were John Tarwood, a bold and reckless person who was the main planner; Joseph Sutton, who had been caught hiding on board the Neptune and punished; George Lee; George Connoway; and John Watson. A boat with an officer was sent to search for them in the north-west branch of the harbor but returned after several hours without finding any trace of them. They undoubtedly headed straight out into the ocean, which, given the poor condition of the boat they were in, likely became their grave.

The governor purposing to erect a capacious storehouse and a range of barracks at Rose Hill, a convict who understood the business of brickmaking was sent up for the purpose of manufacturing a quantity sufficient for those buildings, a vein of clay having been found which it was supposed would burn into good bricks. A very convenient wharf and landing place were made at that settlement, and twenty-seven huts were in great forwardness at the end of the month.

The governor planned to build a large storehouse and a set of barracks at Rose Hill, so a convict who knew how to make bricks was sent there to produce enough for those buildings, as a good source of clay had been found. A useful wharf and landing area were created at that settlement, and by the end of the month, twenty-seven huts were well underway.

Very small hopes were entertained of the wheat of this season; extreme dry weather was daily burning it up. Toward the latter end of the month some rain fell, the first which deserved the name of a heavy rain since last June.

Very little hope was held for this season's wheat; the scorching dry weather was gradually destroying it. Toward the end of the month, some rain fell, the first that could really be called heavy rain since last June.

October.] The little rain which fell about the close of the preceding month soon ceased, and the gardens and the corn grounds were again parching for want of moisture. The grass in the woods was so dried, that a single spark would have set the surrounding country in flames; an instance of this happened early in the month, with the wind blowing strong at N W. It was however happily checked.

October.] The light rain that fell at the end of last month quickly stopped, and the gardens and fields were once again dry from lack of moisture. The grass in the woods was so dry that a single spark could have ignited the entire area; this actually happened early in the month, with a strong wind blowing from the northwest. Fortunately, it was quickly contained.

Bennillong, after appointing several days to visit the governor, came at last on the 8th, attended by three of his companions. The welcome reception they met with from every one who saw them inspired the strangers with such a confidence in us, that the visit was soon repeated; and at length Bennillong solicited the governor to build him a hut at the extremity of the eastern point of the cove. This the governor, who was very desirous of preserving the friendly intercourse which seemed to have taken place, readily promised, and gave the necessary directions for its being built.

Bennillong, after planning for several days to see the governor, finally arrived on the 8th, accompanied by three of his friends. The warm welcome they received from everyone they encountered gave the visitors such confidence in us that they quickly decided to come back; eventually, Bennillong asked the governor to build him a hut at the far end of the eastern side of the cove. The governor, eager to maintain the friendly relationship that seemed to have developed, readily agreed and provided the necessary instructions for the hut's construction.

19th.] While we were thus amusing ourselves with these children of ignorance, the signal for a sail was made at the South Head, and shortly after the Supply anchored in the cove from Batavia, having been absent from the settlement six months and two days. Lieutenant Ball arrived at Batavia on the 6th of July last, where he hired a vessel, a Dutch snow, which was to sail shortly after him with the provisions that he had purchased for the colony. While the Supply lay at Batavia the season was more unhealthy than had ever been known before; every hospital was full, and several hundreds of the inhabitants had died. Lieutenant Ball, at this grave of Europeans, buried Lieutenant Newton Fowell, Mr. Ross the gunner, and several of his seamen. He tried for some days to touch at Norfolk Island, but ineffectually, being prevented by easterly winds. Mr. King and Mr. Miller (the late commissary) had sailed on the 4th of last August in a Dutch packet for Europe.

19th.] While we were having fun with these uninformed kids, a signal for setting sail was raised at South Head, and soon after, the Supply anchored in the cove after coming back from Batavia, where it had been away for six months and two days. Lieutenant Ball arrived in Batavia on July 6th, where he chartered a Dutch ship that was set to leave shortly after him with the supplies he had bought for the colony. While the Supply was in Batavia, the sickness was worse than it had ever been before; every hospital was packed, and several hundred residents had died. During this tragic time, Lieutenant Ball buried Lieutenant Newton Fowell, Mr. Ross the gunner, and several of his crew members. He tried for several days to stop at Norfolk Island but was unsuccessful due to east winds. Mr. King and Mr. Miller (the former commissary) had left on August 4th in a Dutch packet for Europe.

By the return of this vessel several comforts were introduced into the settlement; her commander, with that attention to the wants of the different officers which always characterised him, having procured and taken on board their respective investments.

By the return of this ship, several comforts were brought into the settlement; her captain, with his usual concern for the needs of the various officers, had obtained and taken on board their respective supplies.

In his passage to Batavia, Lieutenant Ball saw some islands, to which, conjecturing, from not finding them in any charts which he had on board, that he might claim being the discoverer of them, he gave names accordingly. Although anxious to make an expeditious passage, he had the mortification to be baffled by contrary winds both to and from Batavia; and at that settlement, instead of finding the governor-general (to whom in his orders he was directed to apply for permission to purchase provisions, and for a ship to bring them) ready to forward the service he came on, which he represented as requiring the utmost expedition, he was referred to the Sabandhaar, Mr. N. Engelhard, who, after much delay and pretence of difficulty in procuring a vessel, produced one, a snow, which they estimated at three hundred and fifty tons burden, and demanded to be paid for at the rate of eighty rix dollars for every ton freight, amounting together to twenty-eight thousand rix dollars, each rix dollar being computed at forty-eight Dutch pennies; and the freight was to be paid although the vessel should be lost on the passage.

During his journey to Batavia, Lieutenant Ball spotted some islands that weren’t on any of the charts he had with him, so he thought he could claim to be their discoverer and gave them names accordingly. Even though he wanted to get there quickly, he was frustrated by contrary winds both going to and returning from Batavia. When he arrived at the settlement, instead of finding the governor-general—who he was instructed to approach for permission to buy provisions and arrange for a ship—ready to assist him with this urgent matter, he was referred to the Sabandhaar, Mr. N. Engelhard. After much delay and claims of difficulty in finding a vessel, he eventually produced a ship, a snow, which they estimated to be about three hundred and fifty tons. They charged him eighty rix dollars per ton for freight, totaling twenty-eight thousand rix dollars, with each rix dollar valued at forty-eight Dutch pennies; and the freight had to be paid even if the vessel was lost during the journey.

As it was impossible to hire any vessel there upon cheaper terms, Lieutenant Ball was compelled to engage for the Waaksamheyd (that being her name, which, englished, signified 'Good look out') upon the terms they proposed. Of the provisions which he was instructed to procure, the whole quantity of flour, two hundred thousand pounds, was not to be had, he being able only to purchase twenty thousand and twenty-one pounds, for which they charged ten stivers per pound, and an addition of about one-third of a penny per pound was charged for grinding it*. Instead of the flour Lieutenant Ball purchased two hundred thousand pounds of rice, at one rix dollar and forty-four stivers per hundred weight over and above the seventy thousand pounds he was directed to procure. The salt provisions were paid for at the rate of seven stivers per pound, and the amount of the whole cargo, including the casks for the flour, wood for dunnage, hire of cooleys, and of craft for shipping the provisions, was thirty thousand four hundred and forty-one rix dollars and thirty-three stivers; which added to the freight (twenty-eight thousand rix dollars) made a total of fifty-eight thousand four hundred and forty-one rix dollars and thirty-three stivers, or £11,688 6s 9d sterling.

Since it was impossible to hire any ship there at a lower price, Lieutenant Ball had no choice but to secure the Waaksamheyd (which means 'Good lookout' in English) on the terms they offered. Of the supplies he was instructed to get, the entire amount of flour, two hundred thousand pounds, was unavailable; he could only buy twenty thousand and twenty-one pounds, for which they charged ten stivers per pound, plus an extra third of a penny per pound for grinding. Instead of the flour, Lieutenant Ball bought two hundred thousand pounds of rice, at one rix dollar and forty-four stivers per hundredweight, in addition to the seventy thousand pounds he was supposed to obtain. The salted provisions were paid for at seven stivers per pound, and the total cost of the entire cargo, which included the casks for the flour, wood for dunnage, payment for laborers, and the tools for shipping the supplies, was thirty thousand four hundred and forty-one rix dollars and thirty-three stivers. When you add the freight costs (twenty-eight thousand rix dollars), the grand total came to fifty-eight thousand four hundred and forty-one rix dollars and thirty-three stivers, or £11,688 6s 9d sterling.

[* The flour, without the freight, including one hundred and ten rix dollars which were charged for twenty-two half leagers in which it was contained, amounted as nearly as possible to tenpence three farthings per pound.]

[* The flour, excluding shipping costs, totaled around one hundred and ten rix dollars for twenty-two half leagers, which comes to about ten pence and three farthings per pound.]

Mr. Ormsby, a midshipman from the Sirius, was left to come on with the snow, which it was hoped would sail in a few weeks after the Supply.

Mr. Ormsby, a midshipman from the Sirius, was left to proceed with the snow, which it was hoped would set sail a few weeks after the Supply.

The criminal court was twice assembled during this month. At the first a soldier was tried for a felony, but acquitted. At the second William Harris and Edward Wildblood were tried for entering a hut at Parramatta, in which was only one man, and that a sick person, whom they knocked down, and then robbed the hut. They were clearly convicted of the offence, and, being most daring and flagrant offenders, were executed at Rose Hill, near the hut which they had robbed. These people had given a great deal of trouble before they committed the offence for which they suffered. At the latter end of the last month they took to the woods, having more than once or twice robbed their companions at Rose Hill. As they were well known, the watch soon brought them in to the settlement at Sydney. They confessed, that the night before they were apprehended they killed a goat belonging to Mr. White. The governor directed them immediately to be linked together by the leg, and sent them back to Rose Hill, there to labour upon bread and water. It was in this situation that, taking advantage of their overseer's absence for a few minutes, they went to the hut, of the situation of which they had previous knowledge, and robbed it of every thing they could carry away.

The criminal court met twice this month. In the first session, a soldier was tried for a felony but was found not guilty. In the second session, William Harris and Edward Wildblood were tried for breaking into a hut in Parramatta, where there was only one person inside, a sick man. They attacked him and then stole from the hut. They were clearly found guilty of the crime, and since they were bold and reckless offenders, they were executed at Rose Hill, near the hut they had robbed. These individuals had caused a lot of trouble before committing the crime for which they were punished. At the end of last month, they went into the woods after previously robbing their fellow settlers at Rose Hill on more than one occasion. Since they were well-known, the watch quickly caught them and brought them back to the settlement in Sydney. They admitted that the night before their arrest, they had killed a goat belonging to Mr. White. The governor ordered them to be chained together by the leg and sent back to Rose Hill to work on bread and water. It was during this time, when their overseer was absent for a few minutes, that they took advantage of the situation, went to the hut they knew about, and stole everything they could carry away.

While these people were suffering the punishment they deserved, James Bloodworth, mentioned before in this narrative, received the most distinguishing mark of approbation which the governor had in his power to give him, being declared free, and at liberty to return to England whenever he should choose to quit the colony. Bloodworth had approved himself a most useful member of the settlement, in which there was not a house or building that did not owe something to him; and as his loss would be severely felt should he quit it while in its infancy, he bound himself by an agreement with the governor to work for two years longer in the colony, stipulating only to be fed and clothed during that time.

While these people were facing the punishment they deserved, James Bloodworth, mentioned earlier in this story, received the highest form of approval that the governor could give: he was declared free and allowed to return to England whenever he chose to leave the colony. Bloodworth had proven to be an invaluable member of the settlement, with every house and building owing something to him; and since his departure would be deeply felt while the colony was still young, he made an agreement with the governor to work for two more years in the colony, asking only to be fed and clothed during that time.

Encouraged by the facility with which Tarwood and his companions made their escape from the colony, some others were forming plans for a similar enterprise. A convict gave information that a scheme nearly ripe for execution was framed, and that the parties had provided themselves with oars, masts, sails, etc. for the purpose, which were concealed in the woods; and as a proof of the veracity of his account, he so clearly described the place of deposit, that on sending to the spot, four or five rude unfinished stakes were found, which he said were to be fashioned into oars. The person who gave the information dreaded so much being known as the author, that no further notice was taken of it than destroying the oars, and keeping a very vigilant eye on the conduct of the people who had been named by him as the parties in the business.

Encouraged by how easily Tarwood and his friends escaped from the colony, others were starting to make plans for a similar venture. A convict reported that a scheme was almost ready to go, and that the group had prepared oars, masts, sails, and other items for the escape, which were hidden in the woods. To prove his story was true, he described the hiding place so clearly that when they checked it out, they found four or five rough, unfinished stakes, which he claimed were meant to be turned into oars. The informant was so afraid of being identified that no further action was taken beyond destroying the oars and closely monitoring the behavior of those he had mentioned.

Attempts of this sort were always likely to be made, at least as long as any difficulty occurred in their quitting the colony after the term had expired for which by law they were sentenced to remain abroad. There must be many among them who would be anxious to return to their wives or children, or other relations, and who, perhaps, might not resort again to the companions of their idle hours. If these people found any obstacles in their way, they would naturally be driven to attempt the attainment of their wishes in some other mode; and it would then become an object of bad policy, as well as cruelty, to detain them.

Attempts like these were always likely to happen, at least as long as there were any challenges in leaving the colony once their legally mandated time abroad was up. Many of them must have wanted to return to their wives, children, or other family members, and probably wouldn't want to spend time with their old companions during their free time. If these individuals encountered obstacles, they would naturally be pushed to find other ways to achieve their goals; it would then be both bad policy and cruel to keep them from leaving.

The weather about this period was evidently becoming warmer every day; and although the trees never wholly lost their foliage, yet they gave manifest signs of the return of spring.

The weather during this time was clearly getting warmer every day; and even though the trees never completely lost their leaves, they showed obvious signs that spring was coming back.

November.] James Williams, who was missing on the sailing of the Supply for Batavia, was found by Lieutenant Ball to have secreted himself on board that vessel, and on her return he delivered him up as a prisoner to the provost-marshal. Williams owned that his flight was to avoid a punishment which he knew awaited him; and Lieutenant Ball spoke so favourably of his conduct while he was under his observation, that the governor would have forgiven him, had he not feared that others might, from such an example, think to meet the same indulgence: he therefore directed him to receive two hundred and fifty lashes, half of the punishment which by the court that tried him he was sentenced to receive, and remitted the remainder.

November.] James Williams, who had gone missing when the Supply set sail for Batavia, was discovered by Lieutenant Ball to have hidden himself on board that ship. When the ship returned, Lieutenant Ball handed him over as a prisoner to the provost-marshal. Williams admitted that he fled to avoid the punishment he knew was coming. Lieutenant Ball praised his behavior while he was being watched, so the governor would have pardoned him, but he worried that allowing leniency might encourage others to expect the same treatment. Consequently, he ordered Williams to receive two hundred and fifty lashes, which was half of the punishment mandated by the court that tried him, and he forgave the other half.

A small boat belonging to Mr. White, which had been sent out with a seine, was lost this month somewhere about Middle Head. She had five convicts in her; and, from the reports of the natives who were witnesses of the accident, it was supposed they had crossed the harbour's mouth, and, having hauled the seine in Hunter's Bay, were returning loaded, when, getting in too close with the rocks and the surf under Middle Head, she filled and went down. The first information that any accident had happened was given by the natives, who had secured the rudder, mast, an oar, and other parts of the boat, which they had fixed in such situations as were likely to render them conspicuous to any boat passing that way. Mr. White and some other gentlemen, going down directly, found their information too true. One of the bodies was lying dead on the beach; with the assistance of Cole-be and the other natives he recovered the seine which was entangled in the rocks, and brought away the parts of his boat which they had secured.

A small boat owned by Mr. White, which had been sent out with a seine, was lost this month somewhere near Middle Head. She had five convicts on board, and from the accounts of the local natives who saw the incident, it was thought they had crossed the mouth of the harbor and, after hauling in the seine at Hunter's Bay, were heading back loaded when they got too close to the rocks and surf under Middle Head, causing the boat to fill with water and sink. The first report of any accident came from the natives, who had retrieved the rudder, mast, an oar, and other pieces of the boat, fixing them in visible spots to catch the attention of any passing boats. Mr. White and a few other gentlemen went down immediately and found the natives' information was unfortunately accurate. One body was lying dead on the beach. With help from Cole-be and the other natives, he recovered the seine that was stuck in the rocks and took back the parts of his boat that they had salvaged.

This appeared to be a striking instance of the good effect of the intercourse which had been opened with these people; and there seemed only to be a good understanding between us and them wanting to establish an harmony which would have been productive of the best consequences, and might have been the means of preventing many of the unfortunate accidents that had happened. The governor, however, thought it necessary to direct, that offensive weapons should not be given to these people in exchange for any of their articles; being apprehensive that they might use them among themselves, and not wishing by any means to arm them against each other.

This seemed like a clear example of the positive outcome from the connections we had made with these people; there appeared to be a mutual understanding between us and them, aiming to create a harmony that could lead to great benefits and potentially prevent many of the unfortunate incidents that had occurred. The governor, however, deemed it necessary to instruct that no offensive weapons should be traded for any of their goods, worried that they might use them against one another and not wanting to arm them against each other in any way.

At Rose Hill a storehouse was begun and finished during the month, without any rain; its dimensions were one hundred feet by twenty-four feet. The bricks there, either from some error in the process, or defect in the clay, were not so good in quality as those made at Sydney. In their colour they were of a deep red when burned, but did not appear to be durable.

At Rose Hill, a storehouse was started and completed this month without any rain. It measured one hundred feet by twenty-four feet. The bricks made there, either due to a mistake in the process or a flaw in the clay, were not as good in quality as those made in Sydney. When burned, they had a deep red color, but they didn't seem very durable.

At Sydney, a good landing-place on the east side was completed; and two small brick huts, one for a cutler's shop, and another for the purpose of boiling oil or melting tallow, were built on the same side. A wharf was also marked out on the west side, which was to be carried far enough out into deep water to admit of the loaded hoy coming along-side at any time of tide. The hut, a brick one twelve feet square and covered with tiles, was finished for Bennillong, and taken possession of by him about the middle of the month.

At Sydney, a suitable landing area on the east side was finished, along with two small brick huts—one for a cutler's shop and another for boiling oil or melting tallow—built on the same side. A wharf was also laid out on the west side, designed to extend far enough into deep water to allow the loaded hoy to dock at any tide. The hut, a twelve-foot square brick structure with a tiled roof, was completed for Bennillong and occupied by him around the middle of the month.

Notwithstanding the accidents which had happened to many who had strayed imprudently beyond the known limits of the different settlements, two soldiers of the New South Wales corps, who had had every necessary caution given them on the arrival of their detachment at Rose Hill, strayed into the woods, and were missing for four or five days, in which time they had suffered severely from anxiety and hunger.

Despite the incidents that had occurred to many who had carelessly wandered beyond the known boundaries of the different settlements, two soldiers from the New South Wales corps, who had received all the necessary warnings upon their arrival at Rose Hill, got lost in the woods and were missing for four or five days, during which time they endured significant suffering from anxiety and hunger.

December.] The temporary barrack which had been erected within the redoubt at Rose Hill, formed only of posts and shingles nailed or fastened with pegs on battens, going fast to decay, and being found inadequate to guard against either the rain or wind of the winter months and the heat of those of the summer, the foundation of a range of brick buildings for the officers and soldiers stationed there was laid early in the month. The governor fixed the situation contiguous to the storehouse lately erected there, to which they might serve as a protection. They were designed for quarters for one company, with the proper number of officers, a guardroom, and two small store-rooms.

December.] The temporary barrack that had been built inside the redoubt at Rose Hill was just made of posts and shingles nailed or fastened with pegs on battens, quickly falling apart and proving insufficient to protect against the rain or wind in the winter months and the heat in the summer. Early in the month, the foundation for a series of brick buildings for the officers and soldiers stationed there was laid. The governor selected a location next to the recently erected storehouse, which they would help protect. These buildings were intended to serve as quarters for one company, along with the right number of officers, a guardroom, and two small storerooms.

On the 10th, John McIntire, a convict who was employed by the governor to shoot for him, was dangerously wounded by a native named Pe-mul-wy*, while in quest of game in the woods at some considerable distance from the settlement. When brought in he declared, and at a time when he thought himself dying, that he did not give any offence to the man who wounded him; that he had even quitted his arms, to induce him to look upon him as a friend, when the savage threw his spear at about the distance of ten yards with a skill that was fatally unerring. When the spear was extracted, which was not until suppuration took place, it was found to have entered his body under the left arm, to the depth of seven inches and a half. It was armed for five or six inches from the point with ragged pieces of shells fastened in gum. His recovery was immediately pronounced by Mr. White to be very doubtful.

On the 10th, John McIntire, a convict hired by the governor to hunt for him, was seriously injured by a native named Pe-mul-wy while searching for game in the woods far from the settlement. When he was brought in, he stated, thinking he was dying, that he had not done anything to provoke the man who attacked him; he had even put down his weapons to show that he meant no harm, when the native threw his spear from about ten yards away with deadly accuracy. When the spear was finally removed, which happened only after the wound became infected, it was found to have penetrated his body under the left arm to a depth of seven and a half inches. The spear was barbed for five or six inches from the tip with sharp pieces of shell attached with gum. Mr. White quickly declared that his recovery was very uncertain.

[* His name was readily obtained from the natives who lived among us, and who soon became acquainted with the circumstances.]

[* We easily got his name from the locals who lived near us, and they quickly learned about the situation.]

As the attack on this man was wanton, and entirely unprovoked on the part of McIntire, not only from his relation of the circumstance, but from the account of those who were with him, and who bore testimony to his being unarmed, the governor determined to punish the offender, who it was understood resorted with his tribe above the head of Botany Bay. He therefore directed that an armed party from the garrison should march thither, and either destroy or make prisoners of six persons (if practicable) of that tribe to which the aggressor belonged, carefully avoiding to offer any injury to either women or children. To this measure the governor resorted with reluctance. He had always wished that none of their blood might ever be shed; and in his own case, when wounded by Wille-me-ring, as he could not punish him on the spot, he gave up all thoughts of doing it in future. As, however, they seemed to take every advantage of unarmed men, some check appeared absolutely necessary. Accordingly, on Tuesday the 14th a party, consisting of two captains, Tench, of the marines, and Hill of the New South Wales corps, with two subalterns, three sergeants, two corporals, one drummer, and forty privates, attended by two surgeons, set off with three days' provisions for the purpose abovementioned.

As the attack on this man was completely random and totally unprovoked by McIntire, not only based on his account of the situation but also from the testimony of those with him, who confirmed that he was unarmed, the governor decided to punish the attacker, who was known to reside with his tribe near Botany Bay. He ordered an armed group from the garrison to march there and either capture or eliminate six members of that tribe, if possible, while strictly avoiding harm to any women or children. The governor approached this decision reluctantly. He had always hoped to avoid shedding any blood; even when he was wounded by Wille-me-ring, he had given up on the idea of punishing him afterward. However, since they seemed to exploit unarmed men constantly, some sort of action seemed absolutely necessary. Therefore, on Tuesday the 14th, a group consisting of two captains—Tench from the marines and Hill from the New South Wales corps—along with two lieutenants, three sergeants, two corporals, one drummer, and forty privates, accompanied by two surgeons, set out with three days’ worth of supplies for this mission.

There was little probability that such a party would be able so unexpectedly to fall in with the people they were sent to punish, as to surprise them, without which chance, they might hunt them in the woods for ever; and as the different tribes (for we had thought fit to class them into tribes) were not to be distinguished from each other, but by being found inhabiting particular residences, there would be some difficulty in determining, if any natives should fall in their way, whether they were the objects of their expedition, or some unoffending family wholly unconnected with them. The very circumstance, however, of a party being armed and detached purposely to punish the man and his companions who wounded McIntire, was likely to have a good effect, as it was well known to several natives, who were at this time in the town of Sydney, that this was the intention with which they were sent out.

There was little chance that such a group would unexpectedly run into the people they were sent to punish and catch them by surprise; without that luck, they might end up searching the woods forever. Also, since we decided to categorize them into tribes, it would be hard to tell if any natives they encountered were the ones they were looking for or just an innocent family with no connection to them. However, the fact that a group was armed and specifically sent to punish the man and his companions who injured McIntire was likely to have a positive effect, as it was well known to several natives currently in the town of Sydney that this was their mission.

On the third day after their departure they returned, without having wounded or hurt a native, or made a prisoner. They saw some at the head of Botany Bay, and fired at them, but without doing them any injury. Whenever the party was seen by the natives, they fled with incredible swiftness; nor had a second attempt, which the governor directed, any better success.

On the third day after they left, they came back without injuring or capturing any locals. They spotted some at the head of Botany Bay and shot at them, but didn't hurt anyone. Whenever the locals saw the group, they ran away incredibly fast; and a second attempt, ordered by the governor, wasn't any more successful.

The governor now determining to avail himself as much as possible of the health and strength of the working convicts, while by the enjoyment of a full ration they were capable of exertion, resolved to proceed with such public buildings as he judged to be necessary for the convenience of the different settlements. Accordingly, during this month, the foundation of another storehouse was laid, equal in dimensions and in a line with that already erected on the east side of the cove at Sydney.

The governor decided to make the most of the health and strength of the working convicts, knowing they could work effectively with a full ration. He resolved to move forward with public buildings that he deemed necessary for the convenience of the various settlements. Therefore, this month, the foundation for another storehouse was laid, matching the size and aligned with the one already built on the east side of the cove at Sydney.

On the 17th the Dutch snow the Waaksamheyd anchored in the cove from Batavia, from which place she sailed on the 20th day of last September, meeting on her passage with contrary winds. She was manned principally with Malays, sixteen of whom she buried during the passage. Mr. Ormsby the midshipman arrived a living picture of the ravages made in a good constitution by a Batavian fever. He was in such a debilitated state, that it was with great difficulty he supported himself from the wharf on which he landed to the governor's house.

On the 17th, the Dutch ship Waaksamheyd anchored in the cove after leaving Batavia, from where she set sail on September 20th. She faced strong headwinds during her journey. The crew was mainly made up of Malays, and sadly, they buried sixteen of them along the way. Mr. Ormsby, the midshipman, arrived looking like a living example of how a Batavian fever can destroy a healthy body. He was so weak that he struggled to make his way from the wharf to the governor's house.

The master produced a packet from the sabandhaar (his owner) at Batavia, inclosing two letters to the governor, one written in very good English, containing such particulars respecting the vessel as he judged it for his interest to communicate; the other, designed to convey such information as he was possessed of respecting European politics, being written in Dutch, unfortunately proved unintelligible; and we could only gather from Mr. Ormsby and the master, who spoke bad English, that a misunderstanding subsisted between Great Britain and Spain; but on what account could not be distinctly collected.

The captain took out a package from his owner in Batavia, which included two letters for the governor. One was written in very good English and detailed information about the ship that he thought was important to share. The other letter, meant to provide insights on European politics, was written in Dutch and, unfortunately, we couldn’t understand it. We could only piece together from Mr. Ormsby and the captain, who spoke poor English, that there was a misunderstanding between Great Britain and Spain, but we couldn’t clearly figure out the reason.

On the first working day after her arrival the people were employed in delivering the cargo from the snow. The quantity of rice brought in her was found to be short of that purchased and paid for by Lieutenant Ball 42,900 weight, and the governor consented to receive in lieu a certain proportion of butter*, the master having a quantity of that article on board very good. This deficiency was ascertained by weighing all the provisions which were landed; a proceeding which the master acquiesced in with much reluctance and some impertinence.

On the first day of work after her arrival, the people were busy unloading the cargo from the snow. The amount of rice found was 42,900 pounds less than what Lieutenant Ball had bought and paid for, so the governor agreed to accept a certain amount of good-quality butter as a substitute, since the captain had plenty on board. This shortfall was confirmed by weighing all the provisions that were unloaded, a process the captain reluctantly agreed to and with some attitude.

[* One pound of butter to eighteen pounds of rice.]

[* One pound of butter for eighteen pounds of rice.]

The numbers who died by sickness in the year 1790, were two seamen, one soldier, one hundred and twenty-three male convicts, seven females, and ten children; in all, one hundred and forty-three persons.

The number of people who died from illness in 1790 included two seamen, one soldier, one hundred and twenty-three male convicts, seven females, and ten children; in total, one hundred and forty-three individuals.

In the above time four male convicts were executed; one midshipman, two soldiers, and six male convicts were drowned; one male convict perished in the woods, and two absconded from the colony, supposed to be secreted on board a transport; making a total decrease of one hundred and fifty-nine persons.

In that period, four male convicts were executed; one midshipman, two soldiers, and six male convicts drowned; one male convict died in the woods, and two escaped from the colony, believed to be hidden on a transport ship; resulting in a total decrease of one hundred and fifty-nine individuals.

CHAPTER XII

New Year's Day
A convict drowned
A local was killed
Signal flags stolen
Supply sets sail for Norfolk Island
H. E. Dodd, Superintendent at Rose Hill, passes away
Public works
Terms offered for renting the Dutch snow to England
The Supply returns
Situation at Norfolk Island
Fishing boat capsized
Extreme heat
Officers and crew of the Sirius board the snow
Supply sets sail for Norfolk Island, and the Waaksamheyd for England
William Bryant and other convicts escape from New South Wales
Ruse, a settler, claims he can support himself without help from public stores
Rations reduced
Orders regarding marriage
Port regulations
Settlers
Public works

1791.]

1791.

January.] On the first day of the new year the convicts were excused from all kind of labour. At Rose Hill, however, this holiday proved fatal to a young man, a convict, who, going to a pond to wash his shirt, slipped from the side, and was unfortunately drowned.

January.] On the first day of the new year, the convicts were excused from all kinds of work. However, at Rose Hill, this holiday turned tragic for a young convict who went to a pond to wash his shirt, slipped by the edge, and sadly drowned.

The Indian corn beginning to ripen at that settlement, the convicts commenced their depredations, and several of them, being taken with corn in their possession, were punished; but nothing seemed to deter them, and they now committed thefts as if they stole from principle; for at this time they received the full ration, in which no difference was made between them and the governor, or any other free person in the colony. When all the provisions brought by the Dutch snow were received into the public stores, the governor altered the ration, and caused five pounds of rice to be issued in lieu of four pounds of flour, which were taken off.

The Indian corn started to ripen at that settlement, and the convicts began stealing it. Several of them were caught with corn and faced punishment, but nothing seemed to stop them, and they stole as if it were a matter of principle. At this time, they received the same full ration as the governor and any other free person in the colony. Once all the supplies brought by the Dutch ship were stored, the governor changed the ration and replaced four pounds of flour with five pounds of rice.

Information having been received toward the close of the last month, that some natives had thrown a spear or fiz-gig at a convict in a garden on the west side, where they had met together to steal potatoes, the governor sent an armed party to disperse them, when a club being thrown by one of the natives at the party, the latter fired, and one man was wounded. This circumstance was at first only surmised, from tracing a quantity of blood from the spot to the water; but in a few days afterward the natives in the town told us the name of the wounded man, and added, that he was then dead, and to be found in a cove which they mentioned. On going to the place, a man well known in the town since the intercourse between us and his countrymen had been opened was found dead, and disposed of for burning. He had been shot under the arm, the ball dividing the subclavian artery, and Mr. White was of opinion that he bled to death.

Information was received toward the end of last month that some locals had thrown a spear or a fishing spear at a convict in a garden on the west side, where they had gathered to steal potatoes. The governor sent an armed group to break them up, but when one of the locals threw a club at the group, they fired back, and one man was wounded. At first, this was only suspected based on a trail of blood leading from the spot to the water. However, a few days later, the locals in town told us the name of the wounded man and said he was dead, and that his body could be found in a cove they mentioned. When we went to the location, we found a man who was well-known in the town since the interactions between us and his people had begun, dead and prepared for cremation. He had been shot under the arm, with the bullet severing the subclavian artery, and Mr. White believed he bled to death.

It was much to be regretted that any necessity existed for adopting these sanguinary punishments, and that we had not yet been able to reconcile the natives to the deprivation of those parts of this harbour which we occupied. While they entertained the idea of our having dispossessed them of their residences, they must always consider us as enemies; and upon this principle they made a point of attacking the white people whenever opportunity and safety concurred. It was also unfortunately found, that our knowledge of their language consisted at this time of only a few terms for such things as, being visible, could not well be mistaken; but no one had yet attained words enough to convey an idea in connected terms. It was also conceived by some among us, that those natives who came occasionally into the town did not desire that any of the other tribes should participate in the enjoyment of the few trifles they procured from us. If this were true, it would for a long time retard the general understanding of our friendly intentions toward them; and it was not improbable but that they might for the same reason represent us in every unfavourable light they could imagine.

It was really unfortunate that there was a need for such harsh punishments, and that we hadn't been able to win the locals over regarding the parts of the harbor we occupied. As long as they believed we had taken their homes, they would see us as enemies; because of this belief, they would attack white people whenever they had the chance and felt safe. Sadly, our understanding of their language at this time was limited to just a few words for things that were obvious; no one had yet learned enough words to communicate in full sentences. Some of us also thought that the locals who occasionally came into town didn’t want other tribes to enjoy the few small items they got from us. If that was true, it would delay our ability to show them our genuine intentions for a long time, and it was likely that they would continue to portray us in every negative way they could think of.

About the middle of the month a theft of an extraordinary nature was committed by some of the natives. It had been the custom to leave the signal colours during the day at the flagstaff on the South Head, at which place they were seen by some of these people, who, watching their opportunity, ran away with them, and they were afterwards seen divided among them in their canoes, and used as coverings.

Around the middle of the month, an unusual theft occurred involving some of the locals. It had been the practice to leave the signal flags at the flagstaff on South Head during the day. Some of these individuals, seizing their chance, took them and were later spotted splitting them up among themselves in their canoes, using them as coverings.

On the 18th the Supply quitted the cove, preparatory to her sailing for Norfolk Island, which she did on the 22nd, having some provisions on board for that settlement. She was to bring back Captain Hunter, with the officers and crew of his Majesty's late ship Sirius. Her commander, Lieutenant Ball, labouring under a very severe and alarming indisposition, Mr. David Blackburn, the master, was directed by the governor to take charge of her until Mr. Ball should be able to resume the command.

On the 18th, the Supply left the cove to get ready to sail for Norfolk Island, which it did on the 22nd, carrying some supplies for that settlement. It was set to bring back Captain Hunter, along with the officers and crew of his Majesty's former ship Sirius. Since her commander, Lieutenant Ball, was suffering from a serious and concerning illness, the governor instructed Mr. David Blackburn, the master, to take charge of the ship until Mr. Ball could regain command.

The wound which McIntire had received proved fatal to him on the 22nd of this month. He had appeared to be recovering, but in the afternoon of that day died somewhat suddenly. On opening the body, the spear appeared to have wounded the left lobe of the lungs, which was found adhering to the side. In the cavity were discovered some of the pieces of stone and shells with which the weapon had been armed. This man had been suspected of having wantonly killed or wounded several of the natives in the course of his excursions after game; but he steadily denied, from the time he was brought in to his last moment of life, having ever fired at them but once, and then only in defence of his own life, which he thought in danger.

The wound McIntire received turned out to be fatal on the 22nd of this month. He seemed to be recovering, but died somewhat suddenly that afternoon. Upon examining the body, it was found that the spear had pierced the left lobe of the lungs, which was stuck to the side. Inside, some pieces of stone and shells from the weapon were discovered. This man had been suspected of having intentionally killed or hurt several of the locals during his hunting trips; however, he consistently denied, from the time he was brought in until his last moment, ever firing at them except once, and only in self-defense when he felt his life was at risk.

26th. Our colours were hoisted in the redoubt, in commemoration of the day on which formal possession was taken of this cove three years before.

26th. We raised our colors in the redoubt to commemorate the day when we officially took possession of this cove three years ago.

On the night of the 28th Henry Edward Dodd, the superintendant of convicts employed in cultivation at Rose Hill, died of a decline. He had been ill for some time, but his death was accelerated by exposing himself in his shirt for three or four hours during the night, in search after some thieves who were plundering his garden. His body was interred in a corner of a large spot of ground which had been inclosed for the preservation of stock, whither he was attended by all the free people and convicts at Rose Hill. The services rendered to the public by this person were visible in the cultivation and improvements which appeared at the settlement where he had the direction. He had acquired an ascendancy over the convicts, which he preserved without being hated by them; he knew how to proportion their labour to their ability, and, by an attentive and quiet demeanor, had gained the approbation and countenance of the different officers who had been on duty at Rose Hill.

On the night of the 28th, Henry Edward Dodd, the superintendent of convicts working in cultivation at Rose Hill, died from a decline. He had been sick for a while, but his death was hastened by exposing himself in just his shirt for three or four hours during the night while searching for some thieves who were stealing from his garden. His body was buried in a corner of a large area that had been enclosed for keeping livestock, where he was attended by all the free people and convicts at Rose Hill. The contributions he made to the public were evident in the cultivation and improvements seen at the settlement where he was in charge. He had established a level of authority over the convicts without being resented by them; he knew how to match their work to their abilities, and through his attentive and calm demeanor, he earned the respect and support of the various officers who had been on duty at Rose Hill.

Mr. Thomas Clark, a superintendant who arrived here in the last year, was directed by the governor to carry on the duties with which Mr. Dodd had been charged, in which, it must be remarked, the care of the public grain was included.

Mr. Thomas Clark, a superintendent who came here last year, was instructed by the governor to take over the responsibilities that Mr. Dodd had been assigned, which notably included the management of the public grain.

At Rose Hill great progress was made in the building of the new barracks.

At Rose Hill, significant progress was made in constructing the new barracks.

At Sydney, the public works in hand were, building the new storehouse, and two brick houses, one for the Rev. Mr. Johnson, and the other for Mr. Alt, the surveyor-general. These two buildings were erected on the east side of the cove, and in a line with those in the occupation of the commissary and judge-advocate.

At Sydney, the public works underway included constructing a new storehouse and two brick houses—one for Rev. Mr. Johnson and the other for Mr. Alt, the surveyor-general. These two buildings were put up on the east side of the cove, aligned with those occupied by the commissary and judge-advocate.

February.] The master of the Dutch snow having received instructions from his owner, the sabandhaar at Batavia, to offer the vessel to the governor, either for sale or for hire, after she should be cleared of her cargo, mentioned the circumstance to his excellency, and proposed to him to sell the vessel with all her furniture and provisions for the sum of thirty-three thousand rix dollars, about £6,600, or to let her to hire at fifteen rix dollars per ton per month; in either of which cases a passage was to be provided for his people to the Cape of Good Hope. The governor was desirous of sending this vessel to England with the officers and people of the Sirius; but it was impossible to close with either of these offers, and he rejected them as unreasonable. Her master therefore dropped the vessel down to the lower part of the harbour, meaning to sail immediately for Batavia. Choosing, however, to try the success of other proposals, he wrote from Camp Cove to the secretary, offering to let the vessel for the voyage to England for twenty-thousand rix dollars, stipulating that thirty thousand rix dollars should be paid for her in the event of her being lost; the crew to be landed at the Cape, and himself to be furnished with a passage to England. On receiving this his second offer, the governor informed him, that instead of his proposal one pound sterling per ton per month should be given for the hire of the snow, to be paid when the voyage for which she was to be taken up should be completed. With this offer of the governor's, the master, notwithstanding his having quitted the cove on his first terms being rejected, declared himself satisfied, and directly returned to the cove, saluting with five guns on coming to an anchor.

February.] The captain of the Dutch snow, having received instructions from his owner, the sabandhaar in Batavia, to offer the ship to the governor, either for sale or rental after unloading her cargo, informed his excellency and proposed selling the ship along with all her equipment and supplies for thirty-three thousand rix dollars, about £6,600, or renting her for fifteen rix dollars per ton per month; in either case, a passage would be provided for his crew to the Cape of Good Hope. The governor wanted to send this ship to England with the officers and crew of the Sirius, but he found both offers unreasonable and rejected them. The captain then moved the ship to the lower part of the harbor, planning to sail immediately for Batavia. However, wanting to explore other options, he wrote from Camp Cove to the secretary, offering to rent the ship for the trip to England for twenty thousand rix dollars, stipulating that thirty thousand rix dollars would be paid if the ship were lost; the crew would be dropped off at the Cape, and he would need a passage to England. Upon receiving this second offer, the governor informed him that instead of his proposal, he would offer one pound sterling per ton per month for renting the ship, to be paid once the voyage was completed. With the governor's offer, the captain, despite having left the cove after his first terms were rejected, expressed his satisfaction and immediately returned to the cove, saluting with five guns upon arriving at anchor.

In adjusting the contract or charter-party, the master displayed the greatest ignorance and the most tiresome perverseness, throwing obstacles in the way of every clause that was inserted. It was however at length finally settled and signed by the governor on the part of the crown, and by Detmer Smith, the master, on the part of his owners, he consenting to be paid for only three hundred tons instead of three hundred and fifty, for which she had been imposed upon Lieutenant Ball at Batavia. The carpenter of the Supply measured her in this cove.

In adjusting the contract or charter-party, the captain showed a complete lack of knowledge and an incredibly annoying stubbornness, creating barriers to every clause that was added. However, it was eventually finalized and signed by the governor on behalf of the crown, and by Detmer Smith, the captain, representing his owners. He agreed to be paid for only three hundred tons instead of three hundred and fifty, which had been forced upon Lieutenant Ball at Batavia. The carpenter of the Supply assessed her in this cove.

Directions were now given for fitting her up as a transport to receive the Sirius's late ship's company and officers; and Lieutenant Edgar, who came out in the Lady Juliana transport, was ordered to superintend the fitting her, as an agent; in which situation he was to embark on board her and return to England.

Directions were now given to prepare her as a transport to receive the Sirius's recent ship's company and officers; and Lieutenant Edgar, who arrived on the Lady Juliana transport, was assigned to oversee her fitting as an agent; in this role, he would board her and return to England.

26th. The Supply, after an absence of just five weeks, returned from Norfolk Island, having on board Captain Hunter, with the officers and people of the Sirius; and Lieutenant John Johnson of the marines, whose ill state of health would not permit him to remain there any longer.

26th. The Supply, after being away for just five weeks, came back from Norfolk Island, bringing Captain Hunter along with the officers and crew of the Sirius; and Lieutenant John Johnson of the marines, whose poor health prevented him from staying there any longer.

We now found that our apprehensions of the distressed situation of that settlement until it was relieved were well founded. The supply of provisions which was dispatched in the Justinian and Surprise reached them at a critical point of time, there being in store on the 7th of August, when they appeared off the island, provisions but for a few days at the ration then issued, which was three pounds of flour and one pint of rice; or, in lieu of flour, three pounds of Indian meal or of wheat, ground, and not separated from the husks or the bran. Their salt provisions were so nearly expended, that while a bird or a fish could be procured no salt meat was issued. The weekly ration of this article was only one pound and an half of beef, or seventeen ounces of pork. What their situation might have been but for the providential supply of birds which they met with, it was impossible to say; to themselves it was too distressing to be contemplated. On Mount Pitt they were fortunate enough to obtain, in an abundance almost incredible, a species of aquatic birds, answering the description of that known by the name of the Puffin. These birds came in from the sea every evening, in clouds literally darkening the air, and, descending on Mount Pitt, deposited their eggs in deep holes made by themselves in the ground, generally quitting, them in the morning, and returning to seek their subsistence in the sea. From two to three thousand of these birds were often taken in a night. Their seeking their food in the ocean left no doubt of their own flesh partaking of the quality of that upon which they fed; but to people circumstanced as were the inhabitants on Norfolk Island, this lessened not their importance; and while any Mount Pitt birds (such being the name given them) were to be had, they were eagerly sought. The knots of the pine tree, split and made into small bundles, afforded the miserable occupiers of a small speck in the ocean sufficient light to guide them through the woods, in search of what was to serve them for next day's meal. They were also fortunate enough to lose but a few casks of the provisions brought to the island in the Sirius, by far the greater part being got safely on shore; but so hazardous was at all times the landing in Sydney Bay, that in discharging the two ships, the large cutter belonging to the Sirius was lost upon the reef, as she was coming in with a load of casks, and some women; by which accident, two seamen of the Sirius, of whom James Coventry, tried at Sydney in 1788, for assaulting McNeal on Garden Island, was one, three women, one child, an infant at the breast whose mother got safe on shore, and one male convict who swam off to their assistance, were unfortunately drowned. The weather, notwithstanding this accident, was so favourable at other times, that in one day two hundred and ninety casks of provisions were landed from the ships.

We realized that our concerns about the dire situation of that settlement until it was helped were justified. The shipment of supplies sent on the Justinian and Surprise arrived at a crucial moment. On August 7th, when they showed up off the island, there were only enough provisions left for a few days, based on the ration being issued, which was three pounds of flour and one pint of rice; or, instead of flour, three pounds of cornmeal or wheat, which was ground but not separated from the husks or bran. Their stock of salted provisions was nearly gone, so no salt meat was issued as long as they could catch a bird or a fish. The weekly ration of this item was only one and a half pounds of beef or seventeen ounces of pork. It was hard to imagine what their condition would have been without the timely supply of birds they encountered; for them, it was a distressing thought. On Mount Pitt, they were fortunate to find an almost unbelievable abundance of a type of seabird known as Puffins. These birds would come in from the sea every evening in such numbers that they darkened the sky. They would land on Mount Pitt and lay their eggs in deep holes they dug in the ground, usually leaving them in the morning to go find food in the ocean. They often caught between two to three thousand of these birds in a night. The fact that their diet came from the ocean meant that their flesh had similarities to what they fed on, but for the people in the situation on Norfolk Island, this didn't reduce the significance of the birds. As long as any Mount Pitt birds were available, they were eagerly sought after. Splintered knots from pine trees, fashioned into small bundles, provided the unfortunate inhabitants of this tiny speck in the ocean enough light to navigate through the woods in search of food for the next day. They were also lucky to lose only a few barrels of the supplies brought to the island on the Sirius; most of it was brought safely ashore. However, landing at Sydney Bay was always risky, and while unloading the two ships, the large cutter from the Sirius was lost on the reef while coming in with a load of barrels and some women. This accident resulted in the drowning of two sailors from the Sirius, including James Coventry, who had been tried in Sydney in 1788 for assaulting McNeal on Garden Island, three women, one child, an infant at the breast whose mother got safely ashore, and one male convict who swam out to help them. Despite this tragedy, the weather was favorable at other times, allowing them to land two hundred and ninety barrels of provisions from the ships in one day.

The experience of three years had now shown, that the summer was the only proper season for sending stores and provisions to Norfolk Island, as during that period the passage through the reef had been found as good, and the landing as practicable as in any cove in Port Jackson. But this was by no means certain or constant; for the surf had been observed to rise when the sea beyond it was perfectly calm, and without the smallest indication of any change in the weather. A gale of wind at a distance from the island would suddenly occasion such a swell, that landing would be either dangerous or impracticable.

The experience of three years had shown that summer was the only suitable season for sending supplies to Norfolk Island, as during that time the passage through the reef was found to be good, and landing was as feasible as in any cove in Port Jackson. However, this was by no means guaranteed or reliable; the surf could rise even when the sea beyond it was perfectly calm, and there were no signs of any change in the weather. A distant gale of wind could suddenly create such a swell that landing became either dangerous or impossible.

It was matter of great satisfaction to learn, that the Sirius's people, under the direction of Captain Hunter, had been most usefully and successfully employed in removing several rocks which obstructed the passage through the reef; and that a correct survey of the island had been made by Lieutenant Bradley, by which several dangers had been discovered, which until then had been unknown.

It was very satisfying to learn that the Sirius crew, led by Captain Hunter, had effectively and successfully removed several rocks that were blocking the passage through the reef; and that Lieutenant Bradley had completed an accurate survey of the island, which revealed several dangers that had previously been unknown.

The lieutenant-governor had, since taking upon him the command of the settlement, caused one hundred and fourteen acres of land to be cleared; and the late crops of maize and wheat, it was supposed, would have proved very productive had they not been sown somewhat too late, and not only retarded by too dry a season but infested by myriads of grubs and caterpillars, which destroyed every thing before them, notwithstanding the general exertions which were made for their extirpation. These vermin were observed to visit the island during the summer, but at no fixed period of that season.

The lieutenant governor, since taking command of the settlement, had cleared one hundred and fourteen acres of land. It was thought that the recent crops of corn and wheat would have been very productive if they hadn't been planted a bit too late, and not only held back by a dry season but also plagued by countless grubs and caterpillars that destroyed everything in their path, despite the overall efforts made to eliminate them. These pests were seen on the island during the summer, but at no specific time during that season.

Two pieces of very coarse canvas manufactured at Norfolk Island were sent to the governor; but, unless better could be produced from the looms than these specimens, little expectation was to be formed of this article ever answering even the common culinary purposes to which canvas can be applied.

Two pieces of very rough canvas made at Norfolk Island were sent to the governor; however, unless better quality could be produced from the looms than these samples, there was little hope that this material would ever meet even the basic cooking needs that canvas can serve.

Those officers who had passed some time in both settlements remarked, that the air of Norfolk Island was somewhat cooler than that of ours, here at Sydney; every breeze that blew being, from its insular situation, felt there.

Those officers who had spent some time in both settlements noted that the air on Norfolk Island was a bit cooler than that in Sydney; every breeze that blew was felt there due to its island location.

Martial law continued in force until the supplies arrived; and of the general demeanor of the convicts during that time report spoke favourably.

Martial law stayed in effect until the supplies arrived, and reports during that time described the general behavior of the convicts positively.

The Lady Juliana, passing the island in her way to China, was the first ship that was seen; but, to the inexpressible disappointment and distress of those who saw her, as well as to the surprise of all who heard the circumstance, the master did not send a boat on shore. Nor were they relieved from their anxiety until two days had passed, when the other ships arrived.

The Lady Juliana, on her way to China, was the first ship spotted while passing the island; however, to the immense disappointment and distress of those who saw her, as well as the surprise of everyone who heard about it, the captain didn’t send a boat to shore. They weren’t relieved from their anxiety until two days later when the other ships arrived.

This was the substance of the information received from Norfolk Island. From an exact survey which had been made, it was computed, that not more than between three and four hundred families could be maintained from the produce of the island; and that even from that number in the course of twenty years many would be obliged to emigrate.

This was the gist of the information received from Norfolk Island. An accurate survey showed that no more than about three to four hundred families could be supported by the island's resources, and even from that number, many would have to move away within twenty years.

On the Supply's coming to an anchor, the Sirius's late ship's company, whose appearance bore testimony to the miserable fare they had met with in Norfolk Island for several months, were landed, and lodged in the military or portable hospital, until the Waaksamheyd Dutch snow could be got ready to receive them.

On the Supply arriving at anchor, the Sirius's former crew, whose looks showed the awful conditions they had endured in Norfolk Island for several months, were taken ashore and placed in the military or portable hospital until the Waaksamheyd Dutch ship could be prepared to accommodate them.

William Bryant, who had been continued in the direction of the fishing-boat after the discovery of his malpractices, was, at the latter end of the month, overheard consulting in his hut after dark, with five other convicts, on the practicability of carrying off the boat in which he was employed. This circumstance being reported to the governor, it was determined that all his proceedings should be narrowly watched, and any scheme of that nature counteracted. The day following this conference, however, as he was returning from fishing with a boat-load of fish, the hook of the fore tack giving way in a squall of wind, the boat got stern-way, and filled, by which the execution of his project was for the present prevented. In the boat with Bryant was Bennillong's sister and three children, who all got safe on shore, the woman swimming to the nearest point with the youngest child upon her shoulders. Several of the natives, on perceiving the accident, paddled off in their canoes, and were of great service in saving the oars, mast, etc. and in towing the boat up to the cove.

William Bryant, who had been kept in charge of the fishing boat after his wrongdoings were discovered, was overheard at the end of the month talking in his hut after dark with five other convicts about the possibility of stealing the boat he was working on. This was reported to the governor, who decided that all his activities should be closely monitored, and any such plans stopped. However, the day after this meeting, while he was coming back from fishing with a boat full of fish, the hook of the fore tack broke loose in a sudden gust of wind, causing the boat to go backwards and fill with water, which temporarily thwarted his plan. In the boat with Bryant were Bennillong's sister and three children, all of whom made it safely to shore, with the woman swimming to the nearest point with the youngest child on her shoulders. Several locals saw the accident and paddled out in their canoes, helping to save the oars, mast, etc., and towing the boat to the cove.

In addition to other works in hand this month, the surveyor was employed in clearing and deepening the run of water which supplied the settlement at Sydney, and which, through the long drought, was at this time very low, although still sufficient for the consumption of the place. Fresh water was indeed every where very scarce, most of the streams or runs of water about the cove being dried up.

In addition to other projects this month, the surveyor was busy clearing and deepening the waterway that supplied the settlement at Sydney. Due to the long drought, the water level was quite low, but it was still enough for the needs of the settlement. Freshwater was very scarce everywhere, with most of the streams around the cove having dried up.

At Rose Hill the heat on the 10th and 11th of the month. on which days at Sydney the thermometer stood in the shade at 105 degrees, was so excessive (being much increased by the fire in the adjoining woods) that immense numbers of the large fox bat were seen hanging at the boughs of the trees, and dropping into the water, which, by their stench, was rendered unwholesome. They had been observed for some days before regularly taking their flight in the morning from the northward to the southward, and returning in the evening. During the excessive heat many dropped dead while on the wing; and it was remarkable, that those which were picked up were chiefly males. In several parts of the harbour the ground was covered with different sorts of small birds, some dead, and others gasping for water.

At Rose Hill, the heat on the 10th and 11th of the month, when the thermometer in the shade at Sydney reached 105 degrees, was so intense (made worse by the fire in the nearby woods) that huge numbers of large fox bats were seen hanging from tree branches and falling into the water, which became unhealthy due to their odor. They had been noticed for several days flying regularly each morning from the north to the south and returning in the evening. During the extreme heat, many dropped dead mid-flight; notably, the ones that were picked up were mostly males. In several areas of the harbor, the ground was covered with various small birds, some dead and others gasping for water.

The relief of the detachment at Rose Hill unfortunately took place on one of these sultry days, and the officer having occasion to land in search of water was compelled to walk several miles before any could be found, the runs which were known being all dry; in his way to and from the boat he found several birds dropping dead at his feet. The wind was about north-west, and did much injury to the gardens, burning up every thing before it. Those persons whose business compelled them to go into the heated air declared, that it was impossible to turn the face for five minutes to the quarter from whence the wind blew.

The relief of the detachment at Rose Hill sadly happened on one of those humid days, and the officer needed to go ashore to find water. He had to walk several miles before he could find any, as all the known streams were dry. On his way to and from the boat, he saw several birds falling dead at his feet. The wind was coming from the northwest and was damaging the gardens, scorching everything in its path. Those who had to go out into the sweltering heat said it was impossible to face the direction from which the wind was blowing for even five minutes.

                                            8 a.m.  2 p.m,  10 p.m.
The greatest height of the thermometer
   during this month was,                    90      105     84
The least height of the thermometer
   during this month was,                    62      64½     61

                                            8 a.m.  2 p.m,  10 p.m.
The highest temperature recorded 
   this month was,                          90      105     84
The lowest temperature recorded 
   this month was,                          62      64.5     61

March.] On the 2nd of March Lieutenant Thomas Edgar hoisted a pendant on board the snow, in quality of naval agent, on which occasion she fired five guns. The preparations which were making on board that vessel were not completed until toward the latter end of the month, at which time the officers and seamen who were to go home in her were embarked.

March.] On March 2nd, Lieutenant Thomas Edgar raised a flag on the snow as the naval agent, and during this event, she fired five guns. The preparations being made on that ship weren’t finished until late in the month, at which point the officers and sailors who were set to return home on her were onboard.

Of the Sirius's late ship's company, ten seamen and two marines chose rather to settle here than return to their friends. Two of the seamen made choice of their lands in this country, the others in Norfolk Island. The majority of them had formed connections with women, for whose sake they consented to embrace a mode of life for which the natural restlessness of a sailor's disposition was but ill calculated. This motive, it is true, they disavowed; but one of the stipulations which they were desirous of making for themselves being the indulgence of having the women who had lived with them permitted still to do so, and it appearing not the least important article in their consideration, seemed to confirm the foregoing opinion.

Of the Sirius's late crew, ten sailors and two marines preferred to stay here instead of going back to their friends. Two of the sailors chose land in this country, while the others settled in Norfolk Island. Most of them had formed relationships with women, and for their sake, they agreed to adopt a lifestyle that didn't suit the natural restlessness of a sailor. Although they claimed otherwise, one of the conditions they wanted was to be allowed to continue living with the women they had been involved with, and this condition seemed to support the earlier assumption.

The number of officers who were to embark was lessened by Mr. Jamison, the surgeon's mate of the Sirius, receiving the governor's warrant appointing him an assistant surgeon to the colony, in which capacity he was to be employed at Norfolk Island. For that settlement the Supply was now ready to sail; and on the 21st, one captain, two subalterns, one serjeant, one corporal, one drummer, and eighteen privates of the New South Wales corps, embarked on board that vessel, to relieve a part of the marine detachment doing duty there. Mr. Jamison and the ten settlers from the Sirius were also put on board, together with some stores that had been applied for. Allotments of sixty acres each were to be marked out for the settlers, which they were to possess under the same conditions as were imposed on settlers in this country.

The number of officers set to board was reduced when Mr. Jamison, the surgeon's mate of the Sirius, received the governor's warrant appointing him as an assistant surgeon to the colony, where he would work on Norfolk Island. The Supply was now ready to sail for that settlement; on the 21st, one captain, two junior officers, one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and eighteen privates from the New South Wales corps boarded the vessel to relieve part of the marine detachment stationed there. Mr. Jamison and ten settlers from the Sirius were also placed on board, along with some requested supplies. Sixty-acre plots were to be designated for the settlers, which they would hold under the same conditions as those imposed on settlers in this country.

The Supply sailed the following morning, carrying an instrument under the hand and seal of the governor, restoring to the rights and privileges of a free man John Ascott, a convict at Norfolk Island, who had rendered himself very conspicuous by his exertions in preventing the Sirius from being burnt soon after she was wrecked.

The Supply set sail the next morning, carrying a document signed by the governor, granting John Ascott, a convict at Norfolk Island, the rights and privileges of a free man. He had notably distinguished himself by his efforts to prevent the Sirius from being destroyed shortly after it wrecked.

On Monday the 28th the Waaksamheyd transport sailed for England, having on board Captain Hunter, with the officers and crew of his majesty's late ship Sirius. By Captain Hunter's departure, which was regretted by every one who shared the pleasure of his society, the administration of the country would now devolve upon the lieutenant-governor, in case of the death or absence of the governor; a dormant commission having been signed by his majesty investing Captain Hunter with the chief situation in the colony in the event of either of the above circumstances taking place.

On Monday the 28th, the Waaksamheyd transport left for England, carrying Captain Hunter, along with the officers and crew of his majesty's former ship Sirius. Captain Hunter's departure was felt by everyone who enjoyed his company, and with it, the leadership of the country would now fall to the lieutenant-governor in case the governor died or was absent; a dormant commission had been signed by his majesty appointing Captain Hunter as the head of the colony in either of those situations.

In the course of the night of the 28th, Bryant, whose term of transportation, according to his own account, expired some day in this month, eluded the watch that was kept upon him, and made his escape, together with his wife and two children (one an infant at the breast) and seven other convicts, in the fishing-boat, which, since the accident at the latter end of the last month, he had taken care to keep in excellent order. Their flight was not discovered until they had been some hours without the Heads.

During the night of the 28th, Bryant, who claimed his time of transportation ended sometime this month, managed to avoid the watch that was on him and escaped with his wife and two children (one still an infant) along with seven other convicts, using the fishing boat he had kept in great condition since the incident at the end of last month. Their escape wasn’t noticed until they had been out of the Heads for several hours.

They were traced from Bryant's hut to the Point, and in the path were found a hand-saw, a scale, and four or five pounds of rice, scattered about in different places, which, it was evident, they had dropped in their haste. At the Point, where some of the party must have been taken in, a seine belonging to government was found, which, being too large for Bryant's purpose, he had exchanged for a smaller that he had made for an officer, and which he had from time to time excused himself from completing and sending home.

They were tracked from Bryant's hut to the Point, and along the way, a hand saw, a scale, and four or five pounds of rice were found scattered in different spots, which clearly showed that they had dropped these things in their rush. At the Point, where some of the group must have been picked up, a government seine was found. It was too large for Bryant's needs, so he had traded it for a smaller one he made for an officer, and he had kept putting off finishing and sending that one home.

The names of these desperate adventurers were,

Came in the first fleet,
William Bryant,                        His sentence was expired.
Mary Braud his wife, and two children, She had 2 years to serve.
James Martin,                          He had 1 year to serve.
James Cox,                             He was transported for life.
Samuel Bird,                           He had 1 year and 4 months to serve.
Came in the second fleet,
William Allen,                         He was transported for life.
Samuel Broom,                          He had 4 years and 4 months to serve.
Nathaniel Lilly,                       He was transported for life.
William Morton,                        He had 5 years and 1 month to serve.

Came in the first fleet,  
William Bryant,                        His sentence was up.  
Mary Braud his wife, and two children, She had 2 years left to serve.  
James Martin,                          He had 1 year left to serve.  
James Cox,                             He was sentenced to life.  
Samuel Bird,                           He had 1 year and 4 months left to serve.  
Came in the second fleet,  
William Allen,                         He was sentenced to life.  
Samuel Broom,                          He had 4 years and 4 months left to serve.  
Nathaniel Lilly,                       He was sentenced to life.  
William Morton,                        He had 5 years and 1 month left to serve.

So soon as it was known in the settlement that Bryant had got out of reach, we learned that Detmer Smith, the master of the Waaksamheyd, had sold him a compass and a quadrant, and had furnished him with a chart, together with such information as would assist him in his passage to the northward. On searching Bryant's hut, cavities under the boards were found, where he had secured the compass and such other articles as required concealment: and he had contrived his escape with such address, that although he was well known to be about making an attempt, yet how far he was prepared, as well as the time when he meant to go, remained a secret. Most of his companions were connected with women; but if these knew any thing, they were too faithful to those they lived with to reveal it. Had the women been bound to them by any ties of affection, fear for their safety, or the dislike to part, might have induced some of them to have defeated the enterprise; but not having any interest either in their flight, or in their remaining here, they were silent on the subject. For one young woman, Sarah Young, a letter was found the next morning, written by James Cox, and left at a place where he was accustomed to work in his leisure hours as a cabinet-maker, conjuring her to give over the pursuit of the vices which, he told her, prevailed in the settlement, leaving to her what little property he did not take with him, and assigning as a reason for his flight the severity of his situation, being transported for life, without the prospect of any mitigation, or hope of ever quitting the country, but by the means he was about to adopt. It was conjectured that they would steer for Timor, or Batavia, as their assistance and information were derived from the Dutch snow.

As soon as everyone in the settlement found out that Bryant had escaped, we learned that Detmer Smith, the captain of the Waaksamheyd, had sold him a compass and a quadrant, and had provided him with a chart, along with information to help him on his journey north. When we searched Bryant's hut, we discovered hiding spots under the floorboards where he had hidden the compass and other items that needed to be concealed. He had planned his escape so cleverly that, even though it was known he was attempting to flee, no one knew how prepared he was or when he intended to leave. Most of his companions had relationships with women, but if those women knew anything, they were too loyal to their partners to say anything. If the women had strong feelings for them, their fear for their safety or reluctance to part might have led some to thwart the escape. However, since they had no stake in whether the men left or stayed, they kept quiet about it. The next morning, a letter was found from James Cox to a young woman named Sarah Young. The letter was left at a place where he usually worked as a cabinetmaker, begging her to stop pursuing the vices he claimed were rampant in the settlement. He left her what little belongings he didn’t take with him and explained that he was fleeing because of the harshness of his situation—having been sentenced to life transportation with no hope of relief or a chance to leave the country except by the means he was about to use. It was speculated that they would head for Timor or Batavia, as their support and information came from the Dutch snow.

The situation of these people was very different from that of Tarwood and his associates, who were but ill provided for an undertaking so perilous; but Bryant had long availed himself of the opportunities given him by selling fish to collect provisions together, and his boat was a very good one, and in excellent order; so that there was little reason to doubt their reaching Timor, if no dissension prevailed among them, and they had but prudence enough to guard against the natives wherever they might land. William Morton was said to know something of navigation; James Cox had endeavoured to acquire such information on the subject as might serve him whenever a fit occasion should present itself, and Bryant and Bird knew perfectly well how to manage a boat. What story they could invent on their arrival at any port, sufficiently plausible to prevent suspicion of their real characters, it was not easy to imagine.

The situation for these people was very different from that of Tarwood and his associates, who were poorly prepared for such a dangerous journey; however, Bryant had long taken advantage of the opportunities available to him by selling fish to gather supplies, and his boat was very good and in excellent condition. So, there was little doubt they would reach Timor, as long as there wasn’t any conflict among them and they had enough caution to protect themselves from the locals wherever they landed. William Morton was said to know a bit about navigation; James Cox had tried to learn enough about it to be useful when the right opportunity arose, and Bryant and Bird were very capable of managing a boat. What story they could come up with upon arriving at any port that would be convincing enough to avoid suspicion about their true identities was hard to imagine.

The depredations committed on the Indian corn at Rose Hill were so frequent and so extensive, that it became absolutely necessary to punish such offenders as were detected with a severity that might deter others; to this end, iron collars of seven pounds weight were ordered as a punishment for flagrant offenders, who were also linked together by a chain, without which precaution they would still have continued to plunder the public grounds. The baker at that settlement absconded with a quantity of flour with which he had been entrusted, belonging to the military on duty there, and other persons. He was taken some days afterward in the woods near Sydney. It must be remarked, however, that all these thefts were for the procuring of provisions, and that offences of any other tendency were very seldom heard of.

The damage done to the corn at Rose Hill was so frequent and extensive that it became absolutely necessary to punish those caught in a way that would deter others. To achieve this, iron collars weighing seven pounds were ordered as a punishment for serious offenders, who were also chained together; otherwise, they would have continued to steal from the public lands. The baker at that settlement ran off with a quantity of flour he had been entrusted with, which belonged to the military stationed there and others. He was captured a few days later in the woods near Sydney. It’s worth noting, however, that all these thefts were aimed at obtaining food, and crimes of any other nature were very rarely reported.

Some time in this month, James Ruse, the first settler in this country, who had been upon his ground about fifteen months, having got in his crop of corn, declared himself desirous of relinquishing his claim to any further provisions from the store, and said that he was able to support himself by the produce of his farm. He had shown himself an industrious man; and the governor, being satisfied that he could do without any further aid from the stores, consented to his proposal, and informed him that he should be forthwith put in possession of an allotment of thirty acres of ground in the situation he then occupied.

Some time this month, James Ruse, the first settler in this country, who had been on his land for about fifteen months, having harvested his crop of corn, stated that he wanted to give up any further provisions from the store and said he was capable of supporting himself with the produce from his farm. He had proven to be a hard-working man; and the governor, convinced that he could manage without any more assistance from the stores, agreed to his request and informed him that he would soon be given ownership of a thirty-acre plot of land in the location he was currently occupying.

To secure our fresh water, which, though very low, might still be denominated a run, the governor caused a ditch to be dug on each side of it at some distance from the stream, and employed some people to erect a paling upon the bank, to keep out stock, and protect the shrubs within from being destroyed.

To protect our freshwater, which, although quite low, could still be called a run, the governor had ditches dug on each side of it, away from the stream, and hired some people to build a fence on the bank to keep livestock out and to safeguard the shrubs from being damaged.

April.] The supplies of provisions which had been received in the last year not warranting the continuing any longer at the ration now issued, the governor thought it expedient to make a reduction of flour, rice, and salt provisions. Accordingly, on the first Saturday in this month each man, woman, and child above ten years of age, was to receive:

April.] The food supplies received in the last year weren't enough to keep issuing the current rations, so the governor decided it was necessary to cut back on flour, rice, and salt provisions. Therefore, on the first Saturday of this month, each man, woman, and child over ten years old was to receive:

3 pounds of flour, 1 pound being taken off;
3 pounds of rice,    ditto;
3 pounds of pork,    ditto;
   or when beef should be served,
4½ pounds of beef, 2½ pounds being taken off.

3 pounds of flour, 1 pound removed;  
3 pounds of rice, same;  
3 pounds of pork, same;  
or when beef is served,  
4½ pounds of beef, 2½ pounds removed.

A small proportion was to be given to children under ten years of age; and this ration the commissary was directed to issue until further orders. Of this allowance the flour was the best article; the rice was found to be full of weevils; the pork was ill-flavoured, rusty, and smoked; and the beef was lean, and, by being cured with spices, truly unpalatable. Much of both these articles when they came to be dressed could not be used, and, being the best that could be procured at Batavia, no inclination was excited by these specimens to try that market again.

A small portion was to be given to children under ten years old; and the commissary was instructed to distribute this ration until further notice. The flour was the best part of the allocation; the rice was infested with weevils; the pork was unappetizing, stale, and overly smoked; and the beef was lean and made unappetizing by the spices used to cure it. A lot of both these items couldn't be used when cooked, and since they were the best available in Batavia, there was no desire to try that market again.

It having been reported to the governor, that Bryant had been frequently heard to express, what was indeed the general sentiment on the subject among the people of his description, that he did not consider his marriage in this country as binding; his excellency caused the convicts to be informed, that none would be permitted to quit the colony who had wives or children incapable of maintaining themselves and likely to become burdensome to the settlement, until they had found sufficient security for the maintenance of such wives or children as long as they might remain after them. This order was designed as a check upon the erroneous opinion which was formed of the efficacy of Mr. Johnson's nuptial benediction; and if Bryant had thought as little of it as he was reported to do, his taking his wife with him could only be accounted for by a dread of her defeating his plan by discovery if she was not made personally interested in his escape.

It was reported to the governor that Bryant had often stated, which was actually the common view among people like him, that he didn’t see his marriage in this country as valid. The governor instructed the convicts that no one would be allowed to leave the colony if they had wives or children who couldn’t support themselves and were likely to become a burden on the community, until they could provide enough security for the support of those wives or children for as long as they remained. This order was meant to counter the mistaken belief about the effectiveness of Mr. Johnson's marriage blessing. If Bryant really thought so little of it, as others claimed, the only reason for taking his wife with him would be his fear that she would ruin his plans by exposing him if she wasn't personally invested in his escape.

This order was shortly after followed by another, limiting the length of such boats as should be built by individuals to fourteen feet from stem to stern, that the size of such boats might deter the convicts from attempts to take them off.

This order was soon followed by another, restricting the length of boats that individuals could build to fourteen feet from bow to stern, to discourage convicts from trying to escape in them.

About this time some information being received, that it was in agitation to take away the sixteen-oared boat belonging to the colony, or some one or two of the smaller boats, a sentinel was placed at night on each wharf, and the officer of the guard was to be spoken to before any boat could leave the cove. In addition to this regulation, it was directed, that the names of all such people as it might be necessary to employ in boats after sun-set should be given in writing to the officer of the guard, to prevent any convicts not belonging to officers or to the public boats from taking them from the wharfs under pretence of fishing or other services.

Around this time, we received some information that there were plans to steal the sixteen-oared boat belonging to the colony, or possibly one or two of the smaller boats. As a precaution, a sentinel was placed at night on each wharf, and the officer in charge of the guard had to be consulted before any boat could leave the cove. Additionally, it was required that the names of all individuals who might need to use boats after sunset be submitted in writing to the officer of the guard. This was to ensure that convicts, who weren’t associated with the officers or public boats, couldn’t take the boats from the wharfs under the pretense of fishing or other tasks.

Mr. Schaffer, who came out from England as a superintendent of convicts, finding himself, from not speaking the language (being a German) inadequate to the just discharge of that duty, gave up his appointment as a superintendant, and accepted of a grant of land; and an allotment of one hundred and forty acres were marked out for him on the south side of the creek leading to Rose Hill. On the same side of the creek, but nearer to Rose Hill, two allotments of sixty acres each were marked out for two settlers from the Sirius. On the opposite side the governor had placed a convict, Charles Williams, who had recommended himself to his notice by extraordinary propriety of conduct as an overseer, giving him thirty acres, and James Ruse received a grant of the same quantity of land at Rose Hill. These were all the settlers at this time established in New South Wales; but the governor was looking out for some situations in the vicinity of Rose Hill for other settlers, from among the people whose sentences of transportation had expired.

Mr. Schaffer, who came from England as a superintendent of convicts, found that he couldn't effectively do his job because he didn't speak the language (he was German). So, he resigned from his position as superintendent and accepted a land grant. An area of one hundred and forty acres was designated for him on the southern side of the creek that leads to Rose Hill. On that same side of the creek, but closer to Rose Hill, two plots of sixty acres each were set aside for two settlers from the Sirius. On the opposite side, the governor assigned a convict, Charles Williams, who had impressed him with his exemplary conduct as an overseer, thirty acres. James Ruse also received a grant of thirty acres at Rose Hill. These were the only settlers established in New South Wales at that time, but the governor was looking for more spots around Rose Hill for other settlers from among those whose transportation sentences had ended.

During this month the governor made an excursion to the westward, but he reached no farther than the banks of the Hawkesbury, and returned to Rose Hill on the 6th, without making any discovery of the least importance. At that settlement, the Indian corn was nearly all gathered off the ground; but it could not be said to have been all gathered in, for much of it had been stolen by the convicts. So great a desire for tobacco prevailed among these people, that a man was known to have given the greatest part of his week's provisions for a small quantity of that article; and it was sold, the produce of the place, for ten and even fifteen shillings per pound. The governor, on being made acquainted with this circumstance, intimated an intention of prohibiting the growth of tobacco, judging it to be more for the true interest of the people to cultivate the necessaries than the luxuries of life.

During this month, the governor took a trip westward but only made it to the banks of the Hawkesbury before returning to Rose Hill on the 6th, without discovering anything significant. At that settlement, most of the Indian corn had been harvested; however, it couldn’t be said that everything had been collected, as a lot of it had been stolen by the convicts. There was such a strong desire for tobacco among these people that one man is known to have traded most of his weekly provisions for a small amount of it, and it was sold, grown locally, for ten to fifteen shillings per pound. When the governor learned of this situation, he expressed a desire to ban the growth of tobacco, believing it would be better for the people to focus on cultivating necessities rather than luxuries.

The public works at Rose Hill consisted in building the officers barracks; a small guardhouse near the governor's hut; a small house for the judge-advocate (whose occasional presence there as a magistrate was considered necessary by the governor), and for the clergyman; and in getting in the Indian corn.

The public works at Rose Hill involved constructing the officers' barracks, a small guardhouse near the governor's hut, a small house for the judge-advocate (whose occasional presence as a magistrate was deemed necessary by the governor), and for the clergyman, as well as harvesting the Indian corn.

At Sydney, the house for the surveyor-general was covered in; and the carpenters were employed in finishing that for the clergyman. Bricks were also brought in for a house for the principal surgeon, to be built near the hospital on the west side.

At Sydney, the house for the surveyor-general was under construction, and the carpenters were busy finishing the one for the clergyman. Bricks were also delivered for a house for the chief surgeon, set to be built near the hospital on the west side.

Many thefts, and some of money, were committed during the month at both settlements. A hut belonging to James Davis, employed as a coxswain to the public boats, was broken into; but nothing was stolen, Davis having taken his money with him, and nothing else appearing to have been the object of their search. His hut was situated out of the view of any sentinel, and a night was chosen for the attempt when it was known that he was on duty at Rose Hill.

Many thefts, including some involving money, happened throughout the month at both settlements. A hut owned by James Davis, who worked as a coxswain for the public boats, was broken into; however, nothing was stolen since Davis had taken his money with him, and nothing else seemed to be what the thieves were after. His hut was located out of sight of any guard, and they chose a night when they knew he would be on duty at Rose Hill.

CHAPTER XIII

A musket found by a local
Reports of plans to take boats
Supply arrives from Norfolk Island
The King's birthday
A canoe destroyed
Its negative impacts
Corn planted
Battery started
One hundred and forty acres fenced for cattle
The Mary Ann arrives
Two criminal courts held
Ration improved
The Matilda arrives
The Mary Ann departs for Norfolk Island
Settlers
The Atlantic and Salamander arrive
Full ration issued
The William and Ann arrives
Locals
Public works

May.] Cole-be, the native who since our communication with these people had attached himself to Mr. White, the principal surgeon, made his appearance one morning in the beginning of the month with a musket, which, on diving into the sea for something else, he had brought up with him. It was supposed to have been lost from Mr. White's boat in November last at the lower part of the harbour.

May.] Cole-be, the local who had connected with Mr. White, the head surgeon, showed up one morning at the beginning of the month with a musket that he had retrieved from the sea while diving for something else. It was believed to have been lost from Mr. White's boat last November in the lower part of the harbor.

The scheme for seizing one of the boats was resumed in this month, and appeared to be in great forwardness. The boat however was changed, the long-boat being chosen instead of that which was at first thought of. She was to be seized the first time she should be employed in towing the boy with provisions to Rose Hill; out of which they were to take what quantity they required for their purpose, land the crew, and run her ashore. On receiving this information, the governor, instead of sending the hoy up with different species of provisions, caused her to be loaded with rice, and a small quantity of flour, in some measure to defeat their scheme, at least for that time, as the information did not state that they had collected any salt provisions. She was accordingly dispatched with flour and rice, and returned safely, no attempt having been made to stop her. It was then said, that they were at a loss for a person to navigate her; and that a deposit of powder and ball was made at a farm near the brick-fields; where however, on searching, nothing of the kind was found. Various other reports were whispered during the month, which, whether founded in truth or not, had this good effect, that every necessary precaution was taken to prevent their succeeding in any attempt of that kind which they might be desperate enough to make.

The plan to take one of the boats was picked up again this month and seemed to be progressing well. However, they changed the target boat, deciding on the long-boat instead of the one they originally considered. They intended to seize it the next time it was used to tow the boy with supplies to Rose Hill; they would take whatever they needed, leave the crew behind, and run it aground. Upon hearing this, the governor decided not to send the boat up with various types of supplies. Instead, he had it loaded with rice and a small amount of flour, aiming to thwart their plan, at least for the time being, since the information didn’t indicate they had gathered any salted provisions. The boat was sent off with flour and rice and returned safely, with no attempts made to intercept it. It was then reported that they were struggling to find someone to pilot it; it was also said that some gunpowder and ammunition were stored at a farm near the brickfields, but a search yielded nothing of that sort. Throughout the month, various other rumors circulated, which, whether true or not, had the positive effect of ensuring that every necessary precaution was taken to prevent any attempt they might be reckless enough to make.

Much anxiety was excited on account of the long and unusual absence of the Supply, which sailed for Norfolk Island on the 22nd day of March, and did not return to this harbour until the 30th of this month, which completed ten weeks within a day since she sailed. Contrary winds and heavy gales had prevented her arrival at the time she might have been reasonably expected. She was three weeks in her passage hither, and was blown off the island for eleven days.

Much anxiety was raised because of the long and unusual absence of the Supply, which left for Norfolk Island on March 22nd and didn’t return to this harbor until the 30th of this month, marking nearly ten weeks since her departure. Strong winds and heavy storms had delayed her arrival beyond what was reasonably anticipated. She spent three weeks on her journey here and was pushed off course from the island for eleven days.

Captain Johnston, Lieutenants Creswell and Kellow, one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty privates of the marine detachment, arrived in the Supply; with two prisoners, one a soldier for some irregularity of conduct when sentinel, the other a convict.

Captain Johnston, Lieutenants Creswell and Kellow, one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty privates from the marine detachment arrived on the Supply; along with two prisoners, one a soldier for some misconduct while on watch, and the other a convict.

The weather had been as dry at Norfolk Island as it had been here; which, with the blighting winds, had considerably injured all the gardens, and particularly some crops of potatoes. Of the great fertility of the soil every account brought the strongest confirmation; and by attending to the proper season for sowing, it was the general opinion that two crops of corn might be got off in a year.

The weather at Norfolk Island had been just as dry as it was here; this, along with the harsh winds, had seriously damaged all the gardens, especially some potato crops. Every report confirmed the soil's great fertility, and by paying attention to the right season for planting, most people believed that two corn crops could be harvested in a year.

Their provisions, like ours, were again at so low an ebb, that the lieutenant-governor had reduced the ration. The whole number victualled when the Supply sailed amounted to six hundred and twenty-nine persons; and for that number there were in store at the full ration, flour and Indian corn for twenty weeks, beef for eighteen weeks, and pork for twenty-nine weeks; and these, at the ration then issued, would be prolonged, the grain to twenty-seven, the beef to forty-two, and the pork to twenty-nine weeks.

Their supplies, like ours, were once again running low, so the lieutenant-governor had cut back on the rations. When the Supply left, there were six hundred and twenty-nine people being fed; for that number, there was enough flour and corn for twenty weeks, beef for eighteen weeks, and pork for twenty-nine weeks at the full ration. With the current ration levels, that would stretch the grain to twenty-seven weeks, the beef to forty-two weeks, and the pork to twenty-nine weeks.

It must however be remarked, that the ration at Norfolk Island was often uncertain, being regulated by the plenty or scarcity of the Mount Pitt birds. Great numbers of these birds had been killed for some time before the Supply sailed thence; but they were observed about that time to be quitting the island.

It should be noted, however, that the food supply at Norfolk Island was often unpredictable, depending on the abundance or lack of Mount Pitt birds. A large number of these birds had been hunted before the Supply left; however, they were seen to be leaving the island around that time.

On board the Supply were some planks, and such part of the stores belonging to the Sirius as the lieutenant-governor could get on board. That ship had not then gone to pieces; the side of her which was on the reef was broken in and much injured, but the side next the sea (the larboard side) appeared fresh and perfect.

On the Supply were some planks and some of the supplies from the Sirius that the lieutenant-governor managed to get on board. That ship hadn’t completely fallen apart yet; the side that was on the reef was damaged and broken, but the side facing the sea (the port side) looked new and intact.

At Sydney, by an account taken at the latter end of the month of the provisions then remaining in store, there appeared to be at the ration then issued of

At Sydney, during a review conducted at the end of the month regarding the supplies still available, it seemed there was a ration being distributed of

Flour and rice 40 weeks, a supply till 31st March 1792;
Beef           12 weeks, a supply till 31st August 1791;
Pork           27 weeks, a supply till 21st December 1791.

Flour and rice for 40 weeks, a supply until March 31, 1792;  
Beef for 12 weeks, a supply until August 31, 1791;  
Pork for 27 weeks, a supply until December 21, 1791.

In this account the rice and flour were taken together as one article, but the rice bore by far the greatest proportion.

In this account, the rice and flour were considered together as one item, but the rice made up a much larger portion.

It was remarked by many in the settlement, that both at Sydney and at Rose Hill the countenances of the labouring convicts indicated the shortness of the ration they received; this might be occasioned by their having suffered so much before from the same cause, from the effects of which they had scarcely been restored when they were again called upon to experience the hardship of a reduced ration of provisions. The convicts who arrived in June had not recovered from the severity of their passage to this country.

Many in the settlement noted that both in Sydney and Rose Hill, the faces of the working convicts showed the effects of their limited rations. This could be due to the fact that they had already endured so much from the same issue, and they had barely started to recover when they were once again faced with the hardship of reduced food supplies. The convicts who arrived in June had not yet healed from the harshness of their journey to this country.

It having been said that James Ruse, who in March last had declared his ability to support himself independent of the store, was starving, the governor told him, that in consideration of his having been upon a short allowance of provisions during nearly the whole of the time he had been cultivating ground upon his own account, the storekeeper should be directed to supply him with twenty pounds of salt provisions. The man assured his excellency that he did not stand in need of his bounty, having by him at the time a small stock of provisions; a quantity of Indian corn (which he found no difficulty in exchanging for salt meat) and a bag of flour; all which enabled him to do so well, that he absolutely begged permission to decline the offer. So very contradictory was his own account of his situation to that which had been reported.

It was reported that James Ruse, who had claimed in March that he could support himself without relying on the store, was starving. The governor informed him that considering he had been on a limited supply of food for almost the entire time he had been farming for himself, the storekeeper would be instructed to give him twenty pounds of salted provisions. Ruse assured the governor that he didn’t need the support, as he had a small stock of food on hand—a supply of corn (which he had no trouble swapping for salted meat) and a bag of flour. This allowed him to do so well that he actually requested permission to decline the offer. His own account of his situation was very different from what had been reported.

The barracks at Rose Hill, being so far completed as to admit of being occupied, were taken possession of this month by the New South Wales corps.

The barracks at Rose Hill, having been completed enough to be occupied, were taken over this month by the New South Wales corps.

Several thefts of provisions were committed; two, that were of some consequence, appeared as if the provisions had been collected for some particular purpose; and, if so, perhaps only passed from the possession of one thief to that of another. While a stalk of Indian corn remained upon the ground, the convicts resolved to plunder it, and several were severely punished; but it did not appear that they were amended by the correction, nor that others were deterred by the example of their punishment. So truly incorrigible were many of these people!

Several thefts of supplies occurred; two of them, which were significant, seemed to suggest the provisions had been gathered for a specific reason; and, if that was the case, they may have simply changed hands from one thief to another. While a stalk of corn remained in the field, the prisoners decided to steal it, and several faced harsh punishments; however, it didn't seem that they learned from the corrections, nor did it discourage others from following their example. Many of these individuals were truly unmanageable!

Finishing the clergyman's and surveyor's houses; bringing in bricks for other buildings; posts and paling for a fence round the run of water; and making clothing for the people, occupied the convicts at Sydney.

Finishing the clergyman's and surveyor's houses; bringing in bricks for other buildings; putting up posts and a fence around the water source; and making clothes for the people kept the convicts busy in Sydney.

June.] The bad weather met with by the Supply during her late voyage to Norfolk Island had done her so much injury, that, on a careful examination of her defects, it appeared that she could not be got ready for sea in less than three months. In addition to other repairs which were indispensable, her main mast was found so defective, that after cutting off eighteen feet from the head of it and finding the heel nearly as bad, the carpenter was of opinion that she must be furnished with an entire new mast. This, when the difficulty of finding timber for her foremast (which, it must be remarked, bore the heavy gales of wind she met with, as well as could be desired even of wood the fittest for masts) was recollected, was an unlucky and an ill-timed want; for, should it happen that supplies were not received from England by the middle or end of the month of July, the services of this vessel would be again required; and, to save the colony, she must at that time have been dispatched to some settlement in India for provisions. She was therefore forthwith hauled along side the rocks, and people were employed to look for sound timber fit for a mast.

June.] The bad weather encountered by the Supply during her recent trip to Norfolk Island caused significant damage, so much so that, after a thorough inspection of her issues, it was determined that she couldn’t be ready for sea in less than three months. Besides other essential repairs, her main mast was found to be so damaged that after cutting off eighteen feet from the top and discovering the base was nearly as bad, the carpenter concluded she needed an entirely new mast. This was unfortunate and poorly timed, especially considering the difficulty of finding suitable timber for her foremast, which had already endured the strong winds she faced as well as could be expected from even the best mast wood. If supplies weren’t received from England by mid or late July, the ship would be needed again; to assist the colony, she would have to be sent to some settlement in India for provisions. Therefore, she was immediately moved alongside the rocks, and people were tasked with searching for suitable timber for a mast.

On his Majesty's birthday an extra allowance of provisions was issued to the garrison and settlements; each man receiving one pound of salt meat, and the like quantity of rice; each woman half a pound of meat and one pound of rice; and each child a quarter of a pound of meat and half a pound of rice. And to make it a cheerful day to every one, all offenders who had for stealing Indian corn been ordered to wear iron collars were pardoned.

On the king's birthday, the garrison and settlements received extra provisions; each man got one pound of salted meat and the same amount of rice; each woman received half a pound of meat and one pound of rice; and each child got a quarter pound of meat and half a pound of rice. To make it a joyful day for everyone, all offenders who had been sentenced to wear iron collars for stealing corn were pardoned.

The town which had been marked out at Rose Hill, and which now wore something of a regular appearance, on this occasion received its name. The governor called it Parramatta, being the name by which the natives distinguished the part of the country on which the town stood.

The town that was established at Rose Hill, and which now looked somewhat organized, was officially named on this occasion. The governor called it Parramatta, the name the local people used to refer to the area where the town was located.

Notwithstanding the lenity and indulgence which had been shown on his Majesty's birthday, in pardoning the plunderers of gardens and the public grounds, and by issuing an extra allowance of provisions to every one, the governor's garden at Parramatta was that very night entered and robbed by six men, who assaulted the watchman, Thomas Ocraft, and would have escaped all together, had he not, with much resolution, secured three of them for punishment.

Despite the leniency and kindness shown on the king's birthday, with the pardon for the garden thieves and extra food rations for everyone, the governor's garden in Parramatta was broken into that same night by six men. They attacked the watchman, Thomas Ocraft, and would have gotten away if he hadn't bravely managed to capture three of them for punishment.

Indulgences of this nature were certainly thrown away upon many who partook of them; but as it was impossible to discriminate so nicely between the good and the bad as wholly to exclude the undeserving, no distinction could be made.

Indulgences like this were definitely wasted on many who used them; but since it was impossible to carefully tell the difference between the good and the bad to completely exclude the unworthy, no distinction could be made.

The people who had assaulted the watchman were severely punished, as his authority could never have been supported without such an example; but either his vigilance, or the countenance which was shown to him on account of his strict performance of his duty, created him many enemies; and it became necessary to give him arms, as well for his own defence, as for the more effectual protection of the district he watched over. Some nights after, in a turnip ground at Parramatta, he was obliged to fire at a convict, whom he wounded, but not dangerously, and secured. He was sent down to the hospital at Sydney.

The people who attacked the watchman faced serious punishment because his authority needed to be upheld with such an example; however, his watchfulness, or the support he received due to his strict duties, earned him a lot of enemies. It became necessary for him to be armed, both for his own protection and for the more effective safeguarding of the area he monitored. A few nights later, in a turnip field at Parramatta, he had to shoot at a convict, wounding him, but not seriously, and managed to capture him. The convict was sent to the hospital in Sydney.

Since the establishment of that familiar intercourse which now subsisted between us and the natives, several of them had found it their interest to sell or exchange fish among the people at Parramatta; they being contented to receive a small quantity of either bread or salt meat in barter for mullet, bream, and other fish. To the officers who resided there this proved a great convenience, and they encouraged the natives to visit them as often as they could bring them fish. There were, however, among the convicts some who were so unthinking, or so depraved, as wantonly to destroy a canoe belonging to a fine young man, a native, who had left it at some little distance from the settlement, and as he hoped out of the way of observation, while he went with some fish to the huts. His rage at finding his canoe destroyed was inconceivable; and he threatened to take his own revenge, and in his own way, upon all white people. Three of the six people who had done him the injury, however, were so well described by some one who had seen them, that, being closely followed, they were taken and punished, as were the remainder in a few days after.

Since the establishment of the familiar interaction we now had with the locals, several of them found it beneficial to sell or trade fish with the people at Parramatta; they were satisfied to receive a small amount of either bread or salt meat in exchange for mullet, bream, and other fish. This was a great convenience for the officers living there, and they encouraged the locals to visit as often as they could bring fish. However, among the convicts, there were some who were so thoughtless or so corrupted that they wantonly destroyed a canoe belonging to a fine young native man, who had left it a little way from the settlement, hoping it would be out of sight while he went to the huts with some fish. His anger at finding his canoe destroyed was unimaginable; he threatened to take his own revenge in his own way against all white people. Three of the six people who had harmed him were so well described by someone who had seen them that they were closely followed, caught, and punished, as were the others a few days later.

The instant effect of all this was, that the natives discontinued to bring up fish; and Bal-loo-der-ry, whose canoe had been destroyed, although he had been taught to believe that one of the six convicts had been hanged for the offence, meeting a few days afterwards with a poor wretch who had strayed from Parramatta as far as the Flats, he wounded him in two places with a spear. This act of Ballooderry's was followed by the governor's strictly forbidding him to appear again at any of the settlements; the other natives, his friends, being alarmed, Parramatta was seldom visited by any of them, and all commerce with them was destroyed. How much greater claim to the appellation of savages had the wretches who were the cause of this, than the native who was the sufferer?

The immediate result of all this was that the locals stopped bringing in fish. Bal-loo-der-ry, whose canoe had been destroyed, even though he had been led to believe that one of the six convicts had been hanged for the wrongdoing, ran into a poor guy a few days later who had wandered from Parramatta out to the Flats. He injured him in two places with a spear. Because of this, the governor ordered that Bal-loo-der-ry was not allowed to show up at any of the settlements again. His friends, worried about the situation, led to fewer visits from the locals to Parramatta, and all trade with them came to a halt. Who really deserved the label of savages—the ones who caused this or the native who suffered?

By water to Parramatta, with a distant view of the western mountains.

Traveling by water to Parramatta, with a view of the distant western mountains.

During this month some rain had fallen, which had encouraged the sowing of the public grounds, and one hundred and sixteen bushels of wheat were sown at Parramatta. Until these rains fell, the ground was so dry, hard, and literally burnt up, that it was almost impossible to break it with a hoe, and until this time there had been no hope or probability of the grain vegetating.

During this month, some rain fell, which encouraged the planting of public land, and one hundred and sixteen bushels of wheat were sown at Parramatta. Before the rain, the ground was so dry, hard, and completely scorched that it was nearly impossible to break it with a hoe, and up until that point, there was no hope or chance of the grain growing.

In the beginning of the month, the stone-mason, with the people under his direction, had begun working at the west point of the cove, where the governor purposed constructing out of the rock a spot whereon to place the guns belonging to the settlement, which was to wear the appearance of a work. The flagstaff was to be placed in the same situation. The house for the principal surgeon was got up and covered in during this month.

At the start of the month, the stone mason and his crew began working at the west end of the cove, where the governor planned to carve out a site from the rock to set up the settlement's cannons, which was meant to look like a work. The flagpole was also going to be positioned there. The main surgeon's house was constructed and completed with a roof during this month.

Among the convicts who died about this time, was ---- Frazer, a man who came out in the first fleet, and who, since his landing, had been employed as a blacksmith. He was an excellent workman, and was supposed to have brought on an untimely end by hard drinking, as he seldom chose to accept of any article but spirits in payment for work done in his extra hours.

Among the convicts who died around this time was ---- Frazer, a man who arrived on the first fleet and had been working as a blacksmith since he landed. He was a skilled craftsman and was believed to have met an early death due to heavy drinking, as he often refused any payment for his extra work except for alcohol.

July.] To guard against a recurrence of the accident which happened to our cattle soon after we had arrived, the governor had for some time past employed a certain number of convicts at Parramatta in forming inclosures; and at the commencement of this month not less than one hundred and forty acres were thinned of the timber, surrounded by a ditch, and guarded by a proper fence.

July.] To prevent another accident like the one that happened to our cattle shortly after we arrived, the governor had been employing a certain number of convicts at Parramatta for a while to create enclosures; and at the start of this month, at least one hundred and forty acres were cleared of timber, surrounded by a ditch, and protected by a proper fence.

In addition to the quantity of ground sown with wheat, a large proportion was cleared to be sown this season with Indian corn; and the country about Parramatta, as well as the town itself, where eight huts were now built, wore a very promising appearance.

In addition to the amount of land planted with wheat, a significant portion was cleared to be planted this season with corn; and the area around Parramatta, as well as the town itself, where eight huts had now been built, looked very promising.

At Sydney, the little ground that was in cultivation belonged to individuals; the whole labour of the convicts employed in clearing ground being exerted at Parramatta, where the soil, though not the best for the purposes of agriculture (according to the opinion of every man who professed any knowledge of farming) was still better than the sand about Sydney, where, to raise even a cabbage after the first crop, manure was absolutely requisite.

At Sydney, the small piece of land that was being farmed belonged to private individuals; all the work done by convicts to clear land was focused on Parramatta, where the soil, while not the best for farming (according to everyone who claimed to know anything about agriculture), was still better than the sandy soil around Sydney, where even growing a cabbage after the first harvest absolutely required fertilizer.

On the morning of the ninth, the signal for a sail was made at the South Head; and before night it was made known that the Mary Ann transport was arrived from England, with one hundred and forty-one female convicts on board, six children, and one free woman, some clothing, and the following small quantity of provisions: one hundred and thirty-two barrels of flour; sixty-one tierces of pork; and thirty-two tierces of beef.

On the morning of the ninth, the signal to set sail was given at the South Head; and by nightfall, it was announced that the Mary Ann transport had arrived from England, carrying one hundred and forty-one female convicts, six children, and one free woman, along with some clothing and the following small amount of provisions: one hundred and thirty-two barrels of flour, sixty-one tierces of pork, and thirty-two tierces of beef.

This ship sailed alone; but we were informed that she was to be followed by nine sail of transports, on board of which were embarked (including one hundred and fifty women, the number put into the Mary Ann) two thousand and fifty male and female convicts; the whole of which were to be expected in the course of six weeks or two months, together with his Majesty's ship Gorgon.

This ship sailed on its own, but we were told that it would be followed by nine transport ships, which would carry (including one hundred and fifty women, the number on the Mary Ann) two thousand and fifty male and female convicts. All of them were expected to arrive within six weeks to two months, along with His Majesty's ship Gorgon.

We also learned that Lieutenant King, who sailed hence the 17th April 1790, arrived in London the 20th day of December following, having suffered much distress after leaving Batavia, whence he was obliged to go to the Mauritius, having lost nearly all the crew of the packet he was in by sickness. Mr. Millar, the late commissary, died on the 28th of August.

We also learned that Lieutenant King, who left on April 17, 1790, arrived in London on December 20 of the same year. He endured a lot of hardship after departing from Batavia and had to stop at Mauritius, having lost almost all the crew of his ship due to illness. Mr. Millar, the former commissary, passed away on August 28.

With great satisfaction we heard, that from our government having adopted a system of sending out convicts at two embarkations in every year, at which time provisions were also to be sent, it was not probable that we should again experience the misery and want with which we had been but too well acquainted, from not having had any regular mode of supply. Intimation was likewise given, that a cargo of grain might be expected to arrive from Bengal, some merchants at that settlement having proposed to Lord Cornwallis, on hearing of the loss of the Guardian, to freight a ship with such a cargo as would be adapted to the wants of the colony, and to supply the different articles at a cheaper rate than they could be sent hither from England. We were also to expect a transport with live stock from the north west coast of America.

We were very pleased to hear that our government had adopted a system of sending out convicts twice a year, at which times provisions would also be sent. Therefore, it was unlikely that we would again face the misery and scarcity we had been all too familiar with due to the lack of a regular supply method. We were also informed that a shipment of grain was expected to arrive from Bengal, as some merchants there had suggested to Lord Cornwallis, after hearing about the loss of the Guardian, that they would charter a ship with a cargo suited to the needs of the colony and supply various items at a lower cost than those shipped from England. Additionally, we were to expect a transport with livestock from the northwest coast of America.

The master, Mark Monroe, had not any private letters on board; but (what added to the disappointment every one experienced) he had not brought a single newspaper; and, having been but a few weeks from Greenland before he sailed for this country, he was destitute of any kind of information.

The captain, Mark Monroe, didn't have any personal letters on board; but (which only added to everyone's disappointment) he hadn't brought a single newspaper either; and, having just been a few weeks out of Greenland before he set sail for this country, he was lacking any kind of information.

The Mary Ann had a quick passage, having been only four months and sixteen days from England. She touched nowhere, except at the island of St. Iago, where she remained ten days. The master landed a boat in a bay on this coast about fifteen miles to the southward of Botany Bay; but made no other observation of any consequence to the colony, than that there was a bay in which a boat might land.

The Mary Ann had a fast trip, taking just four months and sixteen days from England. She only stopped at St. Iago, where she stayed for ten days. The captain launched a boat in a bay on this coast about fifteen miles south of Botany Bay, but didn’t make any other significant observations for the colony, other than noting that there was a bay where a boat could land.

The women, who were all very healthy, and who spoke highly of the treatment which they had experienced from Mr. Monroe, were landed immediately after the arrival of the transport in the cove, and were distributed among the huts at Sydney, while the governor went up to Parramatta to make such preparation as the time would admit for the numbers he expected to receive.

The women, all in great health and full of praise for the care they received from Mr. Monroe, were brought ashore right after the transport arrived in the cove and were assigned to the huts in Sydney, while the governor headed to Parramatta to make whatever arrangements he could for the number of people he expected to welcome.

The convicts whose terms of transportation had expired were now collected, and by the authority of the governor informed, that such of them as wished to become settlers in this country should receive every encouragement; that those who did not, were to labour for their provisions, stipulating to work for twelve or eighteen months certain; and that in the way of such as preferred returning to England no obstacles would be thrown, provided they could procure passages from the masters of such ships as might arrive; but that they were not to expect any assistance on the part of Government to that end. The wish to return to their friends appeared to be the prevailing idea, a few only giving in their names as settlers, and none engaging to work for a certain time.

The convicts whose transportation terms had ended were gathered and, with the governor's authority, informed that those who wanted to become settlers in this country would receive full support. Those who didn’t want to settle would need to work for their food, agreeing to a minimum of twelve or eighteen months. For those who preferred to return to England, there would be no obstacles, as long as they could find passage with the captains of ships that arrived; however, they shouldn't expect any help from the Government in this regard. The desire to return to their families seemed to be the main thought, with only a few signing up as settlers and none committing to work for a fixed period.

We had twice in this month found occasion to assemble the court of criminal judicature. In the night of Saturday the 16th, a soldier of the marine detachment was detected by the patrols in the spirit cellar adjoining to the deputy-commissary's house, the lock of which he had forced. On being taken up, he offered, if he could be admitted an evidence, to convict two others; which being allowed, the court was assembled on the 19th, when two of his brother soldiers were tried; but for want of evidence sufficiently strong to corroborate the testimony of the accomplice, they were of necessity acquitted. Godfrey the accomplice was afterwards tried by a military court for neglect of duty and disobedience of orders in quitting his post when sentinel; which offence being proved against him, he was sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes, and to be drummed out of the corps. In the evening of the day on which he was tried (the 21st) he received three hundred lashes, and was drummed out with every mark of disgrace that could be shown him. In a short time afterwards the two soldiers who had been acquitted were sent to do duty at the South Head. There was little room to doubt, but that in concert with Godfrey they had availed themselves of their situations as sentinels, and frequently entered the cellar; and it was judged necessary to place them where they would be disabled from concerting any future scheme with him.

We had met twice this month to hold the court of criminal justice. On the night of Saturday the 16th, a soldier from the marine detachment was caught by the patrols in the spirit cellar next to the deputy-commissary's house, which he had broken into. When he was arrested, he offered to testify against two others, and after this was allowed, the court was convened on the 19th. Two of his fellow soldiers were tried, but due to a lack of strong enough evidence to support the accomplice's testimony, they had to be acquitted. Godfrey, the accomplice, was later tried by a military court for neglecting his duty and disobeying orders by leaving his post as a sentinel; since this was proven, he was sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes and to be drummed out of the corps. On the evening of his trial (the 21st), he received three hundred lashes and was drummed out with every form of disgrace possible. Shortly after, the two soldiers who had been acquitted were sent to serve at South Head. There was little doubt that, in collusion with Godfrey, they had taken advantage of their positions as sentinels and frequently entered the cellar; it was deemed necessary to place them where they could no longer conspire with him.

A convict was tried for a burglary by the same court, but was acquitted. On the 27th another court was assembled for the trial of James Chapman, for a burglary committed in the preceding month in the house of John Petree, a convict, in which he stole several articles of wearing apparel. Charles Cross and Joseph Hatton, two convicts, were also tried for receiving them knowing them to be stolen. Chapman the principal, refusing to plead any thing but guilty, received sentence of death. Against the receivers it appeared in evidence, that after the burglary was committed the property was concealed in the woods between Sydney and Parramatta, at which place all the parties resided; that having suffered it to remain some weeks, Chapman and Cross went from Parramatta to bring it away; and while they were so employed, Hatton found that the watchmen were going in pursuit of Chapman; on which he directly set off to meet and advertise them of it, and receive the property, which, by a clear chain of evidence, he was proved to have taken and concealed again in the woods. Hatton was found guilty, and sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes. Cross was acquitted. Chapman was executed the following day at noon. Half an hour before he died, he informed the judge-advocate and the clergyman who attended him, that a plan was formed of breaking into the government-house, and robbing it of a large sum of money which it was imagined the governor kept in it; and that it was to be executed by himself and three other convicts, all of whom were, however, very far from being of suspicious characters. But as there was no reason to suppose that a person in such an awful situation would invent an accusation by which he could not himself be benefited, and which might injure three innocent people, the governor took all the precautions that he thought necessary to guard against the meditated villainy.

A convict was tried for burglary by the same court but was found not guilty. On the 27th, another court convened to try James Chapman for a burglary that happened the previous month in John Petree's house, a convict, where he stole several pieces of clothing. Charles Cross and Joseph Hatton, also convicts, were tried for receiving the stolen items. Chapman, the main offender, only pled guilty and was sentenced to death. Evidence showed that after the burglary, the stolen property was hidden in the woods between Sydney and Parramatta, where all the individuals lived. After leaving it there for several weeks, Chapman and Cross went from Parramatta to retrieve it. While they were doing this, Hatton learned that the watchmen were searching for Chapman, so he immediately set off to warn them and retrieve the property, which he was clearly found to have taken and hidden again in the woods. Hatton was found guilty and sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes. Cross was acquitted. Chapman was executed the next day at noon. Half an hour before he died, he told the judge advocate and the clergyman attending him that there was a plan to break into the government house and rob it of a large sum of money believed to be kept by the governor; he claimed it was to be carried out by himself and three other convicts, who actually didn’t seem suspicious at all. However, since there was no reason to think someone in his dire situation would make up an accusation that wouldn't benefit him and could harm three innocent people, the governor took all necessary precautions to guard against the planned crime.

A practice having been discovered, of purchasing the soldiers regimental necessaries for the purpose of disposing of them among the shipping, and this requiring a punishment that should effectually check it, Bond, a convict who baked for the hospital and others, was brought before two magistrates, and, being convicted of having bought several articles of wearing apparel which had been served to a soldier, was sentenced to pay the penalty prescribed by act of parliament, five pounds; or, on failure within a certain time, to go to prison. Having made some considerable profits in the exercise of his trade as a baker, he preferred paying the penalty.

A practice was discovered where soldiers' essential items were being bought to sell them on the ships, and this needed a punishment to effectively stop it. Bond, a convict who baked for the hospital and others, was brought before two magistrates. He was found guilty of purchasing several pieces of clothing that had been issued to a soldier and was sentenced to pay the fine set by law, which was five pounds; if he couldn't pay within a certain time, he would go to prison. After making a decent profit from his baking, he chose to pay the fine.

It being always desirable to go as near the established ration as the state of the stores would allow, and the governor never wishing to keep the labouring man one moment longer than was absolutely necessary upon a reduced allowance of provisions, he directed two pounds of rice to be added to the weekly proportion of that article; but, although by this addition eight pounds of grain were issued, viz three pounds of flour and five pounds of rice, the ration was far from being brought up to the standard established by the Treasury for the colony; five pounds of bad worm-eaten rice making a most inadequate substitute for the same quantity of good flour. In the article of meat the labouring man suffered still more; for in a given quantity of sixty pounds, which were issued on one serving day to two messes, there were no less than forty pounds of bone, and the remainder, which was intended to be eaten, was almost too far advanced in putrefaction for even hunger to get down. It must be observed that it came in the snow from Batavia.

It was always desirable to get as close to the established ration as the state of supplies would allow. The governor never wanted to keep the laboring man even a moment longer than absolutely necessary on a reduced allowance of provisions. He ordered an additional two pounds of rice to be added to the weekly amount of that item. However, even with this addition, eight pounds of grain were distributed—specifically, three pounds of flour and five pounds of rice—but the ration was still far from meeting the standard set by the Treasury for the colony. Five pounds of poor-quality, worm-eaten rice was a very inadequate substitute for the same quantity of good flour. The laboring man suffered even more with meat; on one serving day, sixty pounds were issued for two groups, and there were as many as forty pounds of bone in that amount, while the rest, which was meant to be eaten, was almost too decomposed for even hunger to overcome. It should be noted that it had come in the snow from Batavia.

Patrick Burn, a person employed to shoot for the commanding officer of the marine detachment, died this month: and the hut that he had lived in was burnt down in the night a few hours after his decease, by the carelessness of the people, who were Irish and were sitting up with the corpse, which was with much difficulty saved from the flames, and not until it was much scorched.

Patrick Burn, a guy who worked as a shooter for the commanding officer of the marine detachment, died this month. The hut he lived in was set on fire during the night just a few hours after he passed away due to the carelessness of some Irish people who were keeping watch over the body. It was saved from the flames with great difficulty, but not before it was badly scorched.

August.] On Monday, the 1st of August, the Matilda, the first of the expected fleet of transports, arrived, after an extraordinary passage of four months and five days, from Portsmouth; having sailed from thence on the 27th day of March last, with four sail of transports for this place, with whom she parted company that night off Dunnoze. Another division of transports had sailed a week before from Plymouth Sound. On board the Matilda were two hundred and five male convicts, one ensign, one. sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and nineteen privates, of the New South Wales corps; and some stores and provisions calculated as a supply for the above number for nine months after their arrival.

August.] On Monday, August 1st, the Matilda, the first of the expected fleet of transports, arrived after an incredible journey of four months and five days from Portsmouth. She had departed on March 27th with four other transport ships for this location, but separated from them that night off Dunnoze. Another group of transports had set sail a week earlier from Plymouth Sound. On board the Matilda were two hundred and five male convicts, one ensign, one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and nineteen privates from the New South Wales corps, along with supplies and provisions meant to feed that number for nine months after their arrival.

The master of this ship anchored for two days in a bay of one of Schoeten's Islands, distant from the main land about twelve miles, in the latitude of 42 degrees 15 minutes S.: where, according to his report, five or six ships might find shelter. Those who were on shore saw the footsteps of different kinds of animals, and traces of natives, such as huts, fires, broken spears, and the instrument which they use for throwing the spear. They spoke of the soil as sandy, and observed that the ground was covered with shrubs such as were to be found here.

The captain of this ship anchored for two days in a bay of one of Schoeten's Islands, about twelve miles from the mainland, at a latitude of 42 degrees 15 minutes S. He reported that five or six ships could find shelter there. Those who went ashore noticed footprints from various animals and signs of indigenous people, like huts, fires, broken spears, and the tool they use for throwing spears. They described the soil as sandy and noted that the ground was covered with shrubs typical of the area.

The convicts in this ship, on their landing, appeared to be aged and infirm, the state in which they were said to have been embarked. It was not therefore to be wondered at, that they had buried twenty-five on the passage. One soldier also died. Twenty were brought in sick, and were immediately landed at the hospital.

The convicts on this ship, when they arrived, looked old and weak, the same condition they were in when they boarded. So, it wasn't surprising that they had buried twenty-five during the journey. One soldier also died. Twenty were brought in sick and were immediately taken to the hospital.

It was intended by the governor that this ship should have proceeded immediately to Norfolk Island with the greater part of the convicts she had on board, together with all the stores and provisions; but the master, Mr. Matthew Weatherhead, requesting that as the ship was very leaky the Mary Ann might be permitted to perform the service required, instead of the Matilda (both ships belonging to the same owners), and the Mary Ann being perfectly ready for sea, the governor consented to this proposal; and that ship was hauled alongside the Matilda to receive her cargo. Fifty-five of the convicts brought in this ship, selected from the others as farmers or artificers, were sent up to Parramatta; of the remainder, those whose health would permit them to go were put on board the Mary Ann, together with thirty-two convicts of bad character from among those who came out in the preceding year, and eleven privates of the New South Wales corps. On the Monday following (the 8th) the Mary Ann sailed for Norfolk Island.

It was the governor's plan for this ship to head straight to Norfolk Island with most of the convicts on board, along with all the supplies and provisions. However, the captain, Mr. Matthew Weatherhead, requested that since the ship was leaking badly, the Mary Ann should be allowed to take on the task instead of the Matilda (both ships were owned by the same company), and since the Mary Ann was fully prepared to set sail, the governor agreed to his suggestion. That ship was then moved next to the Matilda to load its cargo. Fifty-five of the convicts from this ship, chosen from the others for their skills as farmers or craftsmen, were sent to Parramatta. Of the remaining prisoners, those healthy enough to travel were put on board the Mary Ann, along with thirty-two convicts with poor reputations from the previous year, and eleven soldiers from the New South Wales corps. The following Monday (the 8th), the Mary Ann left for Norfolk Island.

At Parramatta the only accommodation which the shortness of the notice admitted of being provided for the people who were on their passage was got up; two tent huts, one hundred feet long, thatched with grass, were erected; and, independent of the risk which the occupiers might run from fire, they would afford good and comfortable shelter from the weather.

At Parramatta, the only place to stay that could be arranged on short notice for the people passing through was set up; two tent huts, each a hundred feet long and thatched with grass, were built. Aside from the fire risk that the occupants might face, they provided good and comfortable shelter from the weather.

The governor had now chosen situations for his settlers, and fixed them on their different allotments. Twelve convicts, whose terms of transportation had expired, he placed in a range of farms at the foot of a hill named Prospect Hill, about four miles west from Parramatta; fifteen others were placed on allotments in a district named the Ponds, from a range of fresh-water ponds being in their vicinity; these were situated two miles in a direction north-east of Parramatta. Between every allotment, a space had been reserved equal to the largest grant on either side, pursuant to the instructions which the governor had received; but it was soon found that this distribution might be attended with much disadvantage to the settler; a thick wood of at least thirty acres must lie between every allotment; and a circumstance happened which showed the inconvenience consequent thereon, and determined the governor to deviate from the instructions, whenever, by adhering to them, the settlers were likely to be material sufferers.

The governor had now assigned locations for his settlers and designated them to their various plots of land. He placed twelve convicts, whose sentences had ended, on a series of farms at the base of a hill called Prospect Hill, about four miles west of Parramatta. Fifteen others were assigned to plots in an area known as the Ponds, named for the nearby freshwater ponds; these were located two miles northeast of Parramatta. A space equal to the largest grant on either side had been reserved between each plot, according to the governor's instructions. However, it quickly became apparent that this arrangement could create significant challenges for the settlers. A dense forest of at least thirty acres lay between each plot, leading to issues that demonstrated the drawbacks of this setup. This prompted the governor to adjust his plans whenever sticking to the original instructions would significantly disadvantage the settlers.

In the beginning of the month information was received, that a much larger party of the natives than had yet been seen assembled at any one time had destroyed a hut belonging to a settler at Prospect Hill, who would have been murdered by them, but for the timely and accidental appearance of another settler with a musket. There was no doubt of the hut having been destroyed, and by natives, though perhaps their numbers were much exaggerated; the governor, therefore, determined to place other settlers upon the allotments which had been reserved for the crown; by which means assistance in similar or other accidents would be more ready.

At the beginning of the month, it was reported that a much larger group of natives than had ever been seen together before had destroyed a hut belonging to a settler at Prospect Hill. The settler would have been killed if it weren't for the timely and unexpected arrival of another settler with a gun. There was no question that the hut had been destroyed by the natives, although their numbers may have been greatly exaggerated. As a result, the governor decided to place more settlers on the parcels of land reserved for the crown, which would provide quicker assistance in case of similar incidents or other emergencies.

After the arrival of the Matilda, the governor, judging that his stores would admit of increasing the weekly allowance of flour, directed that (instead of three) five pounds of that article should be issued to each man; and to each woman an addition of half a pound to the three which they before received. The other articles of the ration remained as before.

After the arrival of the Matilda, the governor, thinking that his supplies could support a bigger weekly flour allowance, ordered that instead of three pounds, each man would receive five pounds of flour; and each woman would get an extra half pound on top of the three she was already receiving. The other items in the ration stayed the same.

The platform which had been constructing on the West Point since June last being ready for the reception of the cannon, they were moved thither about the middle of the month; in doing which, a triangle which was made use of, not being properly secured, slipped and fell upon a convict (an overseer), by which accident his thigh was dislocated, and his body much bruised. He was taken to the hospital, where, fortunately, Mr. White immediately reduced the luxation.

The platform that had been built at West Point since June was ready to receive the cannons, so they were moved there around the middle of the month. During this process, a triangle that was being used slipped because it wasn't secured properly and fell on a convict (an overseer), causing his thigh to dislocate and his body to be severely bruised. He was taken to the hospital, where Mr. White was able to quickly put the dislocation back in place.

About noon on Saturday the 20th, the Atlantic transport anchored in the cove from Plymouth, whence she sailed with two other transports, and parted with them about five weeks since in bad weather between Rio de Janeiro and this port, the passage from which had not been more than ten weeks. She had on board a sergeant's party of the new corps as a guard to two hundred and twenty male convicts, eighteen of whom died on the passage. The remainder came in very healthy, there being only nine sick on board. The evening before her arrival she stood into a capacious bay, situated between Long Nose and Cape St. George, where they found good anchorage and deep water. Lieutenant Richard Bowen, the naval agent on board, who landed, described the soil to be sandy, and the country thickly covered with timber. He did not see any natives, but found a canoe upon the beach, whose owners perhaps were not far off. This canoe, by Lieutenant Bowen's account, appeared to be on a somewhat stronger construction than the canoes of Port Jackson.

About noon on Saturday the 20th, the Atlantic transport anchored in the cove after arriving from Plymouth, where she had set sail with two other transports. They had separated about five weeks ago due to bad weather between Rio de Janeiro and this port, and the journey had taken no more than ten weeks. Onboard, there was a sergeant's team from the new corps guarding two hundred and twenty male convicts, eighteen of whom died during the journey. The rest arrived in good health, with only nine sick on board. The evening before her arrival, she entered a spacious bay located between Long Nose and Cape St. George, where they found good anchorage and deep water. Lieutenant Richard Bowen, the naval agent on board, went ashore and described the soil as sandy, with the area heavily wooded. He didn’t encounter any natives but did find a canoe on the beach, likely belonging to nearby locals. According to Lieutenant Bowen, this canoe seemed to be constructed more sturdily than those typically seen in Port Jackson.

The signal for another sail was made the next morning at the Lookout, and about one o'clock the Salamander transport arrived. She sailed from England under Lieutenant Bowen's orders, with a sergeant's party of the new corps and one hundred and sixty male convicts on board, one hundred and fifty-five of whom she brought in all healthy, except one man who was in the sick list. The party arrived without the sergeant, he having deserted on their leaving England.

The signal for another ship was raised the next morning at the Lookout, and around one o'clock, the Salamander transport arrived. She had set sail from England under Lieutenant Bowen's command, carrying a sergeant’s group from the new corps and one hundred sixty male convicts on board, one hundred fifty-five of whom were brought in healthy, except for one man who was on the sick list. The group arrived without the sergeant since he deserted before they left England.

Both these transports having brought a supply of provisions calculated to serve nine months for the convicts that were embarked, the governor directed the commissary to issue the full ration of provisions, serving rice in lieu of peas; the reduced ration having continued from Saturday the 2nd day of last April to Saturday the 27th of August; twenty-one weeks.

Both of these shipments brought enough supplies to last nine months for the convicts on board. The governor instructed the commissary to provide the full ration of provisions, substituting rice for peas. The reduced rations had been in place from Saturday, April 2nd, to Saturday, August 27th; a total of twenty-one weeks.

A party of one hundred convicts were sent from the Atlantic to Parramatta, the remainder were landed and disposed of at Sydney. The Salamander was ordered to proceed to Norfolk Island with the people and the cargo she had on board.

A group of one hundred convicts was sent from the Atlantic to Parramatta, while the rest were taken off and settled in Sydney. The Salamander was instructed to head to Norfolk Island with the passengers and cargo it had on board.

There were at this time not less than seventy persons from the Matilda and Atlantic under medical treatment, being weak, emaciated, and unfit for any kind of labour; and the list was increasing. It might have been supposed that on changing from the unwholesome air of a ship's between-decks to the purer air of this country, the weak would have gathered strength; but it had been observed, that in general soon after landing, the convicts were affected with dysenteric complaints, perhaps caused by the change of water, many dying, and others who had strength to overcome the disease recovering from it but slowly.

At this time, there were at least seventy people from the Matilda and Atlantic receiving medical care, being weak, emaciated, and unable to work; and the number was growing. One might think that moving from the unhealthy air of a ship's hold to the cleaner air of this country would help the weak regain their strength. However, it was noticed that shortly after arriving, the convicts generally developed dysentery, possibly due to the change in water, with many dying and others who had enough strength to fight the illness recovering only very slowly.

On the 28th the William and Ann transport arrived (the last of Lieutenant Bowen's division). She had on board one sergeant and twelve privates of the new corps, one hundred and eighty-one male convicts, with her proportion of stores and provisions. She sailed with one hundred and eighty-eight convicts from England, but lost seven on the passage; the remainder came in very healthy, five only being so ill as to require removal. The first mate of this ship, Mr. Simms, formerly belonged to the Golden Grove transport.

On the 28th, the William and Ann transport arrived (the last ship of Lieutenant Bowen's division). It had one sergeant and twelve privates from the new corps on board, along with one hundred and eighty-one male convicts, plus its share of supplies and provisions. It set sail with one hundred and eighty-eight convicts from England but lost seven during the journey; the remaining passengers arrived in good health, with only five needing to be transferred due to illness. The first mate of this ship, Mr. Simms, previously worked on the Golden Grove transport.

The town beginning to fill with strangers (officers and seamen from the transports) and spirituous liquors finding their way among the convicts, it was ordered that none should be landed until a permit had been granted by the judge-advocate; and the provost-marshal, his assistant, and two principals of the watch, were deputed to seize all spirituous liquors which might be landed without.

The town started to fill with newcomers (officers and sailors from the ships), and alcoholic drinks were making their way among the convicts. It was decided that no one should be allowed to disembark until a permit was issued by the judge-advocate; the provost-marshal, his assistant, and two main watchmen were assigned to confiscate any alcoholic drinks that were brought ashore without permission.

Ballooderry, the proscribed native, having ventured into the town with some of his friends, one or two armed parties were sent to seize him, and a spear having been thrown (it was said by him) two muskets were fired, by which one of his companions was wounded in the leg; but Ballooderry was not taken. On the following day it was given out in orders, that he was to be taken whenever an opportunity offered; and that any native attempting to throw a spear in his defence, as it was well known among them why vengeance was denounced against him, was, if possible, to be prevented from escaping with impunity.

Ballooderry, the banned native, went into town with a few of his friends, which led to some armed groups being sent to capture him. A spear was thrown (reportedly by him), and in response, two muskets were fired, wounding one of his friends in the leg; however, Ballooderry was not caught. The next day, it was announced that he was to be captured whenever the chance arose, and that any native trying to throw a spear in his defense, since it was well known why he was being targeted, should be stopped from escaping without consequences.

Those who knew Ballooderry regretted that it had been necessary to treat him with this harshness, as among his countrymen we had no where seen a finer young man. The person who had been wounded by him in the month of June last was not yet recovered.

Those who knew Ballooderry regretted that it was necessary to treat him so harshly, as among his countrymen we had not seen a finer young man. The person he had wounded last June was still not recovered.

Discharging the transports formed the principal labour of the month; the shingles on the roof of the old hospital being found to decay fast, and many falling off, the whole were removed, and the building was covered with tiles.

Discharging the transports was the main work of the month; since the shingles on the roof of the old hospital were quickly deteriorating, with many falling off, they were all taken off, and the building was covered with tiles.

The convicts at Parramatta were employed in opening some ground about a mile and a half above that settlement, along the south side of the creek; and it was expected from the exertions which they were making, that between forty and fifty acres would be soon ready for sowing with Indian corn for this season. Their labour was directed by Thomas Daveney, a free person who came out with the governor.

The inmates at Parramatta were working to clear some land about a mile and a half above the settlement, along the south side of the creek. It was anticipated that, based on their efforts, around forty to fifty acres would soon be prepared for planting Indian corn this season. Their work was supervised by Thomas Daveney, a free man who arrived with the governor.

CHAPTER XIV

The Salamander departs for, and the Mary Ann arrives from Norfolk Island
Bondel, a local, comes back
A sailor gets punished for sinking a canoe
The Gorgon arrives
Commission for freedom, and official seal
The Active and Queen arrive
Complaints against the captain of the Queen
Supply ordered back
Albemarle arrives
Mutiny on board
Britannia and Admiral Barrington arrive
Future plans for the transports
The Atlantic and Queen hired
Atlantic departs for Bengal
Salamander returns from Norfolk Island
Transactions
Public projects
Suicide

September.] It became necessary to land the cargo brought out in the Salamander, for the purpose of restowing it in a manner convenient for getting it out at Norfolk Island while the ship was under sail. The great inconvenience attending landing a cargo in such a situation had been pointed out in letters which could not yet have been attended to. It was at the same time suggested, that ships should be freighted purposely for Norfolk Island, with casks and bales adapted to the size of the island boats, which would in a great measure lessen the inconvenience above mentioned.

September.] It became necessary to unload the cargo brought in the Salamander so it could be restowed in a way that made it easier to take out at Norfolk Island while the ship was still sailing. The significant issues with unloading cargo in such a situation had been mentioned in letters that hadn't yet been addressed. At the same time, it was suggested that ships should be specifically loaded for Norfolk Island with barrels and bales that fit the size of the island boats, which would greatly reduce the mentioned inconvenience.

On the 3rd, near two hundred male convicts, with a sergeant's party of the New South Wales corps, some stores and provisions, having been put on board the Salamander, she sailed for Norfolk Island the following morning: and the Mary Ann returned from that settlement on the 8th, having been absent only four weeks and two days. The convicts, troops, stores, and provisions, were all landed safely; but an unexpected surf rising at the back of the reef, filling the only boat (a Greenland whale-boat) which the master took with him, she was dashed upon the reef, and stove; the people, who all belonged to the whaler, fortunately saved themselves by swimming.

On the 3rd, around two hundred male convicts, along with a sergeant from the New South Wales corps and some supplies, boarded the Salamander, which set sail for Norfolk Island the next morning. The Mary Ann returned from that location on the 8th, having been away for just four weeks and two days. The convicts, troops, supplies, and provisions were all safely unloaded; however, an unexpected surf hit the back of the reef, filling the only boat—a Greenland whale boat—that the captain had taken with him. The boat was thrown onto the reef and wrecked, but fortunately, everyone from the whaler managed to save themselves by swimming.

From Norfolk Island we learned, that the crops of wheat then in the ground promised well, having been sown a month earlier than those of the last season. Of the public ground ninety acres were in wheat, and one hundred in Indian corn: of the ground cleared by the convicts, and cultivated by themselves for their own maintenance, there were not less, at the departure of the transport, than two hundred and fifty acres.

From Norfolk Island, we learned that the wheat crops currently in the ground looked promising, as they had been sown a month earlier than those from last season. Ninety acres of public land were planted with wheat, and one hundred acres were in Indian corn. Additionally, the land cleared by the convicts and cultivated for their own sustenance totaled at least two hundred and fifty acres by the time the transport departed.

Bondel, a native boy, who went thither with Captain Hill, to whom he was attached, in the month of March last, came back by this conveyance to his friends and relations at Port Jackson. During his residence on the island, which Mr. Monroe said he quitted reluctantly, he seemed to have gained some smattering of our language, certain words of which he occasionally blended with his own.

Bondel, a local boy who went there with Captain Hill, who he was close to, in March, came back with this transport to reunite with his friends and family at Port Jackson. During his time on the island, which Mr. Monroe mentioned he left with hesitation, he seemed to have picked up some basic knowledge of our language, occasionally mixing in certain words with his own.

Some prisoners having been sent from Norfolk Island, the criminal court was assembled on the 15th for the trial of one of them for a capital offence committed there; but for want of sufficient evidence he was acquitted. Great inconvenience was experienced from having to send prisoners from that island with all the necessary witnesses. In the case just mentioned the prosecutor was a settler, who being obliged to leave his farm for the time, the business of which was necessarily suspended until he could return, was ruined: and one of the witnesses was in nearly the same situation. But as the courts in New South Wales would always be the superior courts, it was not easy to discover a remedy for these inconveniences.'

Some prisoners were sent from Norfolk Island, and the criminal court met on the 15th to try one of them for a serious crime committed there; however, due to a lack of sufficient evidence, he was acquitted. It caused a lot of trouble to have to send prisoners from that island along with all the necessary witnesses. In this case, the prosecutor was a settler who had to leave his farm temporarily, which meant that his work was put on hold until he could return, ultimately leading to his ruin; one of the witnesses was in a similar situation. Since the courts in New South Wales were always considered superior courts, it was difficult to find a solution to these issues.

A seaman of one of the transports having been clearly proved to have wantonly sunk a canoe belonging to a native, who had been paddling round the ship, and at last ventured on board, he was ordered to be punished, and to give the native a complete suit of wearing apparel, as a satisfaction for the injury he had done him, as well as to induce him to abandon any design of revenge which he might have formed. The corporal punishment was however afterwards remitted, and the seaman ordered to remain on board his ship while she should continue in this port.

A crew member from one of the transport ships was found to have deliberately sunk a canoe belonging to a local who had been paddling near the ship and eventually came on board. He was ordered to face punishment and to give the local a complete set of clothes as compensation for the harm he caused, as well as to discourage any thoughts of revenge he might have had. However, the corporal punishment was later canceled, and the crew member was instructed to stay on his ship while it was docked at this port.

Some of the soldiers who came out in the William and Ann transport having exhibited complaints against the master, whom they accused of assaulting and severely beating them during the passage, the affair was investigated before three magistrates, and a fine laid upon the master, which he paid.

Some of the soldiers who arrived on the William and Ann transport complained about the captain, claiming he had assaulted and brutally beaten them during the journey. The matter was examined by three magistrates, and a fine was imposed on the captain, which he paid.

On Wednesday the 21st his Majesty's ship Gorgon of forty-four guns, commanded by Captain John Parker, anchored within the heads of the harbour, reaching the settlement the following morning, and anchoring where his Majesty's late ship Sirius used to moor.

On Wednesday the 21st, his Majesty's ship Gorgon, armed with forty-four guns and commanded by Captain John Parker, anchored inside the harbor entrance, arriving at the settlement the next morning and docking where his Majesty's former ship Sirius used to anchor.

The Gorgon sailed from England on the 15th of March last, touching on her passage at the islands of Teneriffe and St. Iago, and at the Cape of Good Hope, where she remained six weeks, taking in three bulls, twenty-three cows, sixty-eight sheep, eleven hogs, two hundred fruit trees, a quantity of garden seed, and other articles for the colony. Unfortunately, the bulls and seven of the cows died; but a bull calf, which had been produced on board, arrived in good condition.

The Gorgon set sail from England on March 15th, stopping at the islands of Tenerife and St. Iago, as well as the Cape of Good Hope, where she stayed for six weeks. During this time, she took on three bulls, twenty-three cows, sixty-eight sheep, eleven pigs, two hundred fruit trees, a bunch of garden seeds, and various other supplies for the colony. Unfortunately, the bulls and seven of the cows didn’t survive; however, a bull calf that was born on board arrived in good shape.

Six months provisions for about nine hundred people, with stores for his Majesty's armed tender the Supply, and for the marine detachment, were sent out in the Gorgon; wherein also was embarked Mr. King, the late commandant of Norfolk Island, now appointed by his Majesty lieutenant-governor of that settlement, and a commander in the navy; together with Mr. Charles Grimes, commissioned as a deputy surveyor-general to be employed at Norfolk Island; the chaplain and quarter-master of the New South Wales corps, and Mr David Burton, a superintendant of convicts.

Six months' worth of supplies for about nine hundred people, along with provisions for His Majesty's armed tender the Supply and the marine detachment, were sent out on the Gorgon. Also on board was Mr. King, the former commandant of Norfolk Island, now appointed by His Majesty as the lieutenant-governor of that settlement and a commander in the navy; along with Mr. Charles Grimes, who was commissioned as a deputy surveyor-general to work at Norfolk Island; the chaplain and quarter-master of the New South Wales corps; and Mr. David Burton, a superintendent of convicts.

By this ship we received a public seal to be affixed to all instruments drawn in his Majesty's name, and a commission under the great seal empowering the governor for the time being to remit, either absolutely or conditionally, the whole or any part of the term for which felons, or other offenders, should have been or might hereafter be transported to this country. Duplicates of each pardon were to be sent to England, for the purpose of inserting the names of the persons so emancipated in the first general pardon which should afterwards issue under the great seal of the kingdom.

By this ship, we received an official seal to be attached to all documents written in His Majesty's name, along with a commission under the great seal that gives the current governor the authority to completely or partially reduce the sentences of felons or other offenders who have been or may be transported to this country. Copies of each pardon were to be sent to England to include the names of the people granted freedom in the first general pardon that would be issued under the kingdom's great seal.

To deserving characters, of which description there were many convicts in the colony, a prospect of having the period of their banishment shortened, and of being restored to the privilege which by misconduct they had forfeited, had something in it very cheering, and was more likely to preserve well intentioned men in honest and fair pursuits, than the fear of punishment, which would seldom operate with good effect on a mind that entertained no hope of reward for propriety of conduct. The people with whom we had to deal were not in general actuated by that nice sense of feeling which draws its truest satisfaction from self approbation; they looked for something more substantial, something more obvious to the external senses.

For deserving individuals, including many convicts in the colony, the chance to have their banishment reduced and eventually regain the privileges they lost due to their behavior was very encouraging. This was likely to keep well-intentioned people engaged in honest and fair activities, more so than the fear of punishment, which rarely had a positive impact on those who saw no hope of reward for good behavior. The people we dealt with generally didn't have that refined sense of feeling that finds true satisfaction in self-approval; they sought something more tangible, something more noticeable to the senses.

In determining the device for the seal of the colony, attention had been paid to its local and peculiar circumstances. On the obverse were the king's arms, with the royal titles in the margin; on the reverse, a representation of convicts landing at Botany Bay, received by Industry, who, surrounded by her attributes, a bale of merchandise, a beehive, a pickaxe, and a shovel, is releasing them from their fetters, and pointing to oxen ploughing and a town rising on the summit of a hill, with a fort for its protection. The masts of a ship are seen in the bay. In the margin are the words Sigillum. Nov. Camb. Aust.; and for a motto 'Sic fortis Etruria crevit.' The seal was of silver; its weight forty-six ounces and the devices were very well executed.

In creating the seal for the colony, consideration was given to its unique local circumstances. On the front side were the king's arms, with the royal titles around the edge; on the back, there was an image of convicts arriving at Botany Bay, welcomed by Industry. She, surrounded by her symbols—a bundle of goods, a beehive, a pickaxe, and a shovel—is freeing them from their chains and pointing to oxen plowing and a town being built on a hilltop, along with a fort for protection. The masts of a ship can be seen in the bay. Around the edge are the words Sigillum. Nov. Camb. Aust.; and the motto is 'Sic fortis Etruria crevit.' The seal was made of silver, weighing forty-six ounces, and the designs were skillfully crafted.

The cattle were immediately landed, and turned into the inclosures which had been prepared for them. One cow died in the boat going up.

The cattle were quickly unloaded and placed in the enclosures that had been set up for them. One cow died on the boat during the journey.

The remaining transports of the fleet were now dropping in. On the 26th the Active from England, and the Queen from Ireland, with convicts of that country arrived and anchored in the cove. On board of the Active, beside the sergeant's guard, were one hundred and fifty-four male convicts. An officer's party was on board the Queen, with one hundred and twenty-six male and twenty-three female convicts and three children.

The rest of the fleet's transport ships were coming in now. On the 26th, the Active from England and the Queen from Ireland arrived and anchored in the cove, carrying convicts from that country. On the Active, along with the sergeant's guard, there were one hundred fifty-four male convicts. The Queen had an officer's party on board, along with one hundred twenty-six male convicts, twenty-three female convicts, and three children.

These ships had been unhealthy, and had buried several convicts in their passage. The sick which they brought in were landed immediately; and many of those who remained, and were not so ill as to require medical assistance, were brought on shore in an emaciated and feeble condition, particularly the convicts from the Active. They in general complained of not having received the allowance intended for them; but their emaciated appearance was to be ascribed as much to confinement as to any other cause. The convicts from the Queen, however, accusing the master of having withheld their provisions, an inquiry took place before the magistrates, and it appeared beyond a doubt, that great abuses had been practised in the issuing of the provisions; but as to the quantity withheld, it was not possible to ascertain it so clearly, as to admit of directing the deficiency to be made good, or of punishing the parties with that retributive justice for which the heinousness of their offence so loudly called; the proceedings of the magistrates were therefore submitted to the governor, who determined to transmit them to the secretary of state.

These ships were unhealthy and had buried several convicts during their journey. The sick they brought in were taken ashore immediately; many of those who remained, not sick enough to need medical help, were landed in a weak and emaciated state, especially the convicts from the Active. They generally complained about not receiving the rations that were supposed to be given to them; however, their thin appearance was due as much to confinement as to anything else. The convicts from the Queen, however, claimed that the captain had withheld their food, which led to an inquiry before the magistrates. It became clear that significant abuses had occurred in distributing provisions; but regarding the exact amount withheld, it wasn’t possible to determine that well enough to order the missing supplies to be delivered, or to punish those responsible with the justice their serious offense warranted. Therefore, the magistrates submitted their findings to the governor, who decided to pass them on to the secretary of state.

Nothing could have excited more general indignation than the treatment which these people appeared to have met with; for, what crime could be more offensive to every sentiment of humanity, than the endeavour, by curtailing a ration already not too ample, to derive a temporary advantage from the miseries of our fellow-creatures!

Nothing could have stirred more widespread outrage than the treatment these people seemed to have received; for, what crime could be more offensive to every sense of humanity than trying to gain a temporary benefit by cutting back on a ration that was already insufficient, exploiting the suffering of others?

By the arrival of these ships several articles of comfort were introduced among us, there being scarcely a vessel that had not brought out something for sale. It could not, however, be said that they were procurable on easier terms than what had been sold here in the last year. The Spanish dollar was the current coin of the colony, which some of the masters taking at five shillings and others at four shillings and six-pence, the governor, in consideration of the officers having been obliged to receive the dollars at five shillings sterling when given for bills drawn in the settlement, issued a proclamation fixing the currency of the Spanish dollar at that sum.

By the time these ships arrived, we had several new comforts available, and it seemed like every vessel had brought something to sell. However, it couldn't be said that they were easier to obtain than what had been sold here in the past year. The Spanish dollar was the main currency in the colony, with some merchants accepting it at five shillings and others at four shillings and sixpence. The governor, considering that the officers had to accept the dollars at five shillings sterling for bills drawn in the settlement, issued a proclamation setting the value of the Spanish dollar at that amount.

The Supply was now carefully surveyed, when it appeared, that her defects were such as to render it by no means difficult to put her into a state that would enable her to reach England; but that if she remained six months longer in this country, she would become wholly unserviceable. It was therefore determined to dispatch her immediately to England. Timber had with infinite labour been procured for her main-mast, and her other repairs were put in train for her sailing hence in the course of the next month.

The Supply was now closely examined, and it became clear that her flaws were not so severe that we couldn't fix her up enough to make it to England. However, if she stayed here for another six months, she'd be completely useless. So, it was decided to send her back to England right away. Timber had been gathered with great effort for her main-mast, and plans for her other repairs were underway to get her ready to sail next month.

October.] The remainder of the transports expected did not arrive until the middle of October. The Albermarle was off the coast some days, being prevented by a southerly current from getting in. She arrived on Thursday the 13th, with two hundred and fifty male and six female convicts, her proportion of stores and provisions, and one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty privates of the new corps.

October.] The rest of the ships we were waiting for didn't show up until the middle of October. The Albermarle spent a few days off the coast, held back by a southern current from coming in. She finally arrived on Thursday the 13th, bringing two hundred and fifty male convicts, six female convicts, her share of supplies and provisions, and one sergeant, one corporal, one drummer, and twenty soldiers from the new corps.

The convicts of this ship had made an attempt, in conjunction with some of the seamen, to seize her on the 9th of April, soon after she had sailed from England; and they would in all probability have succeeded, but for the activity and resolution shown by the master Mr. George Bowen, who, hearing the alarm, had just time to arm himself with a loaded blunderbuss, which he discharged at one of the mutineers, William Syney (then in the act of aiming a blow with a cutlass at the man at the wheel), and lodged its contents in his shoulder. His companions, seeing what had befallen him, instantly ran down below; but the master, his officers, and some of the seamen of the ship, following them, soon secured the ringleaders, Owen Lyons and William Syney. A consultation was held with the naval agent, Lieutenant Robert Parry Young, the ship's company, and the military persons on board, the result of which was, the immediate execution of those two at the fore-yard arm. They had at this time parted company with the other transports, and no other means seemed so likely to deter the convicts from any future attempt of the like nature. It afterwards appearing that two of the seamen had supplied them with instruments for sawing off their irons, these were left at the island of Madeira, where the Albermarle touched, to be sent prisoners to England.

The convicts on this ship tried to take control of it on April 9, shortly after leaving England. They probably would have succeeded if it weren't for the quick action and determination of the captain, Mr. George Bowen. Hearing the commotion, he had just enough time to grab a loaded blunderbuss and fire it at one of the mutineers, William Syney, who was about to strike the helmsman with a cutlass. The shot hit Syney in the shoulder. Seeing what happened to him, his fellow convicts quickly ran below deck. However, the captain, his officers, and some of the crew chased after them and managed to capture the ringleaders, Owen Lyons and William Syney. A meeting was held with the naval agent, Lieutenant Robert Parry Young, the ship's crew, and the military personnel on board. They decided to execute both men immediately at the fore-yard arm. They had already separated from the other transports, and immediate action seemed the best way to prevent the convicts from trying something like this again. It was later discovered that two of the crew had given the convicts tools to remove their shackles. Those two crew members were left on the island of Madeira when the Albermarle docked, to be sent back to England as prisoners.

On the day following the Britannia arrived, with one hundred and twenty-nine male convicts, stores, and provisions on board; and on the 16th the Admiral Barrington, the last of the ten sail of transports, anchored in the cove. This ship had been blown off the coast, and fears were entertained of her safety, as she left the cape with a crippled main-mast and other material defects. She had on board a captain and a party of the New South Wales corps, with two hundred and sixty-four male convicts, four free women, and one child. She had been unhealthy too, having lost thirty-six convicts in the passage, and brought in eighty-four persons sick, who were immediately landed. Her stores and proportion of provisions were the same as on board of the other ships.

On the day after the Britannia arrived, carrying one hundred and twenty-nine male convicts, supplies, and provisions; on the 16th, the Admiral Barrington, the last of the ten transport ships, anchored in the cove. This ship had been pushed off course, and there were concerns for her safety since she left the cape with a damaged main mast and other significant issues. On board were a captain and a group from the New South Wales corps, along with two hundred and sixty-four male convicts, four free women, and one child. The voyage had also been unhealthy, with thirty-six convicts lost during the journey and eighty-four people arriving sick, who were immediately disembarked. Her supplies and amount of provisions were the same as those on the other ships.

The whole number of convicts now received into the colony, including thirty on board the Gorgon, were, male convicts one thousand six hundred and ninety-five; female convicts one hundred and sixty-eight; and children nine. There were also eight free women (wives of convicts) and one child; making a total number of one thousand eight hundred and eighty-one persons, exclusive of the military. Upwards of two hundred convicts, male and female, did not reach the country.

The total number of convicts now brought into the colony, including thirty on the Gorgon, was one thousand six hundred and ninety-five male convicts, one hundred and sixty-eight female convicts, and nine children. There were also eight free women (wives of convicts) and one child; making a grand total of one thousand eight hundred and eighty-one people, not counting the military. More than two hundred convicts, both male and female, did not make it to the country.

Of the ten sail of transports lately arrived, five, after delivering their cargoes, were to proceed on the southern whale fishery, viz the Mary Ann, Matilda, William and Ann, Salamander, and Britannia. Melville, the master of the Britannia, conceiving great hopes of success on this coast from the numbers of spermaceti whales which he saw between the south cape and this port, requested to be cleared directly on his coming in, that he might give it a trial; and, the governor consenting, his ship was ready by the 22nd (a week after her arrival), and sailed on the 24th with the other whalers.

Of the ten transport ships that recently arrived, five were set to head out for southern whale fishing after unloading their cargoes: the Mary Ann, Matilda, William and Ann, Salamander, and Britannia. Melville, the captain of the Britannia, was very hopeful for success along this coast because of the number of spermaceti whales he spotted between the south cape and this port. He requested to be cleared as soon as he arrived so he could give it a shot; the governor agreed, and his ship was ready by the 22nd (a week after it arrived) and set sail on the 24th with the other whalers.

The Queen, Atlantic, Active, Albemarle, and Admiral Barrington, after being discharged from government employ, were to proceed to Bombay, by consent of the East India Company, and load home with cotton upon private account under the inspection of the company's servants at that settlement, provided the cotton should be afterwards sold at the company's sales, subject to the usual expenses (their duty only excepted), and provided the ships did not interfere with any other part of the company's exclusive commerce*.

The Queen, Atlantic, Active, Albemarle, and Admiral Barrington, after being released from government service, were set to head to Bombay, with the East India Company's approval, to load cotton for private accounts under the supervision of the company's staff at that location, as long as the cotton was sold at the company's auctions, subject to the usual costs (except for their duty), and provided the ships didn't disrupt any other part of the company's exclusive trade*.

[* Notwithstanding this provision, which was expressed more at large in the licence given by the company, and which extended to the prohibition of every article except the stores and provisions put on board by government, there was on board of these ships a very large quantity of iron, steel, and copper, intended for sale at a foreign settlement in India, with the produce of which they were to purchase the homeward-bound investment of cotton.]

[* Despite this provision, which was outlined in more detail in the license granted by the company, and which banned all items except the supplies placed on board by the government, these ships carried a significant amount of iron, steel, and copper intended for sale at a foreign settlement in India. With the proceeds from these sales, they planned to buy the cotton for the return trip.]

The quantity of provisions received by these ships being calculated for the numbers on board of each for nine months only after their arrival, and as, so large a body of convicts having been sent out, it was not probable that we should soon receive another supply, the governor judged it expedient to send one of the transports to Bengal, to procure provisions for the colony; for which purpose he hired the Atlantic at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month. In the way thither she was to touch at Norfolk Island, where lieutenant-governor King, with some settlers, was to be landed; and the Queen transport was hired for the purpose of bringing back lieutenant-governor Ross, and the marine detachment serving there, relieved by a company of the New South Wales corps.

The amount of supplies received by these ships was calculated for the number of people on board for only nine months after their arrival. Since a large group of convicts had been sent out, it was unlikely we would get another supply soon. The governor decided it was wise to send one of the transports to Bengal to get provisions for the colony, so he hired the Atlantic at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month. On the way there, she would stop at Norfolk Island, where lieutenant-governor King and some settlers would be disembarked. The Queen transport was hired to bring back lieutenant-governor Ross and the marine detachment stationed there, relieved by a company from the New South Wales corps.

On the 25th, the anniversary of his Majesty's accession to the throne, a salute of twenty-one guns was fired by the Gorgon, and the public dinner given on the occasion at the government-house was served to upwards of fifty officers, a greater number than the colony had ever before seen assembled together.

On the 25th, the anniversary of the King's accession to the throne, a salute of twenty-one guns was fired by the Gorgon, and the public dinner held at the government house was served to over fifty officers, a larger group than the colony had ever seen come together before.

The following morning the Atlantic sailed for Norfolk Island and Calcutta. For the first of these places, she had on board Lieutenant-Governor King and his family; Captain Paterson of the New South Wales corps (lately arrived in the Admiral Barrington); Mr. Balmain, the assistant-surgeon, sent to relieve Mr. Considen; the Rev. Mr. Johnson, who voluntarily visited Norfolk Island for the purpose of performing those duties of his office which had hitherto been omitted through the want of a minister to perform them; twenty-nine settlers discharged from the marines; several male and female convicts, and some few settlers from that class of people.

The next morning, the Atlantic set sail for Norfolk Island and Calcutta. On board for Norfolk Island were Lieutenant-Governor King and his family; Captain Paterson of the New South Wales corps (who had just arrived on the Admiral Barrington); Mr. Balmain, the assistant-surgeon who was sent to replace Mr. Considen; Rev. Mr. Johnson, who volunteered to visit Norfolk Island to fulfill the duties of his office that had previously been neglected due to the lack of a minister; twenty-nine settlers released from the marines; several male and female convicts; and a few settlers from that group of people.

At Calcutta, Lieutenant Bowen, who was continued in his employment of naval agent, was to procure a cargo of flour and peas, in the proportion of two tons of flour to one ton of peas; and was for that purpose furnished with letters to the merchants who had made proposals to Lord Cornwallis to supply the colony, the governor meaning for that reason to give their house the preference.

At Calcutta, Lieutenant Bowen, who remained in his role as naval agent, was tasked with getting a cargo of flour and peas, in the ratio of two tons of flour to one ton of peas. To accomplish this, he was provided with letters to the merchants who had proposed to Lord Cornwallis to supply the colony, as the governor intended to prioritize their business.

The Salamander had returned from Norfolk Island, where every person and article she had on board were safely landed. By letters received thence, we learned that it was supposed there had formerly been inhabitants upon the island, several stone hatchets, or rather stones in the shapes of adzes, and others in the shapes of chisels, having been found in turning up some ground in the interior parts of the island. Lieutenant-Governor King had formerly entertained the same supposition from discovering the banana tree growing in regular rows.

The Salamander had come back from Norfolk Island, where every person and item on board was safely unloaded. From letters we got, we learned that people think there used to be inhabitants on the island, as several stone hatchets—or rather stones shaped like adzes—and others shaped like chisels were found while digging in the interior parts of the island. Lieutenant-Governor King had also believed the same thing after discovering banana trees growing in neat rows.

It was not to be doubted but that the tranquillity and regularity of our little town would in some degree be interrupted by the great influx of disorderly seamen who were at times let loose from the transports. Much less cause of complaint on this score, however, arose than was expected. The port orders, which were calculated to preserve the peace of the place, were from time to time enforced; and on one occasion ten seamen belonging to the transports were punished for being found in the settlement after nine o'clock at night.

It was undeniable that the calm and order of our small town would be somewhat disturbed by the large number of unruly sailors who were occasionally released from the ships. However, there were far fewer issues than anticipated. The port regulations, which were designed to maintain peace in the area, were occasionally enforced; and at one point, ten sailors from the ships were punished for being in the town after nine o'clock at night.

At Parramatta, whither the greatest part of the convicts lately arrived had been sent, petty offences were frequently committed, and the constant presence of a magistrate became daily more requisite. The convicts at that place were chiefly employed in opening some new ground at a short distance from the settlement.

At Parramatta, where most of the recently arrived convicts were sent, minor crimes were often committed, and having a magistrate around was becoming increasingly necessary. The convicts there were mainly busy clearing some new land not far from the settlement.

The foundation of a new storehouse was begun this month at Sydney, on the spot where the redoubt had hitherto stood; which, since the construction of the platform near the magazine on the east point of the cove, had been pulled down, and the mould removed into the garden appropriated to government-house. This, and clearing the transports, formed the principal labour at Sydney.

The construction of a new storage building started this month in Sydney, at the site where the redoubt used to be. Since the platform was built near the magazine on the east side of the cove, the redoubt has been demolished, and the debris has been taken to the garden designated for the government house. This along with clearing the transport ships made up the main work at Sydney.

On the last day of this month, James Downey was found hanging in his hut. The cause of this rash action was said to have been the dread of being taken up for a theft which, according to some intimation he had received, was about to be alleged against him. He came out in the first fleet, had served his term of transportation, had constantly worked as a labourer in the bricklayers gang, and was in general considered as a harmless fellow.

On the last day of this month, James Downey was found hanging in his hut. The reason for this impulsive act was believed to be his fear of being accused of a theft, which, based on some information he had received, was about to be claimed against him. He arrived on the first fleet, completed his term of transportation, consistently worked as a laborer in the bricklayers' gang, and was generally seen as an innocuous guy.

From Parramatta two convicts were missing, and were said to be killed by the natives.

From Parramatta, two convicts were missing and were thought to have been killed by the locals.

CHAPTER XV

A group of Irish convicts escapes
The Queen heads to Norfolk Island
Whale hunting
Rations changed
The Supply departs for England
Public livestock in the colony
Land under cultivation
Illness
Water supply decreasing
Two ships set sail
Whale hunting discontinued
The Queen arrives from Norfolk Island
The Marines board the Gorgon for England
Rations further cut
Transactions
Convicts on the Guardian granted freedom
Store depleted
Deaths in 1791

November.] On the first day of this month, information was received from Parramatta, that a body of twenty male convicts and one female, of those lately arrived in the Queen transport from Ireland, each taking a week's provisions, and armed with tomahawks and knives, had absconded from that settlement, with the chimerical idea of walking to China, or of finding in this country a settlement wherein they would be received and entertained without labour. It was generally supposed, however, that this improbable tale was only a cover to the real design, which might be to procure boats, and get on board the transports after they had left the cove. An officer with a party was immediately sent out from Parramatta in pursuit of them, who traced them as far down the harbour as Lane Cove, whence he reached the settlement at Sydney, without seeing or hearing any thing more of them. A few days afterward the people in a boat belonging to the Albemarle transport, which had been down the harbour to procure wood on the north shore, met with the wretched female who had accompanied the men. She had been separated from them for three days, and wandered by herself, entirely ignorant of her situation, until she came to the water side, where, fortunately, she soon after met the boat. Boats were sent down the next day, and the woman's husband was found and brought up to the settlement. They both gave the same absurd account of their design as before related, and appeared to have suffered very considerably by fatigue, hunger, and the heat of the weather. The man had lost his companions forty eight hours before he was himself discovered; and no tidings of them were received for several days, although boats were constantly sent in to the north west arm, and the lower part of the harbour.

November.] On the first day of this month, news came in from Parramatta that a group of twenty male convicts and one female, who had recently arrived on the Queen transport from Ireland, each took a week's worth of provisions and armed themselves with tomahawks and knives. They had run away from that settlement, driven by the fanciful idea of walking to China or finding a place in this country where they would be welcomed and fed without needing to work. However, it was widely believed that this unlikely story was just a cover for their true plan, which might have been to get hold of boats and board the transports after they left the cove. An officer and a team were quickly sent out from Parramatta to track them down, and they traced them as far down the harbor as Lane Cove, after which the officer returned to the Sydney settlement without seeing or hearing anything more about them. A few days later, a boat from the Albemarle transport, which had gone down the harbor to gather firewood on the north shore, encountered the unfortunate female who had been with the men. She had been separated from them for three days and wandered alone, completely unaware of her situation, until she reached the water, where she fortunately met the boat. The following day, boats were sent down, and her husband was found and brought back to the settlement. They both provided the same ridiculous account of their plan as mentioned before and seemed to have suffered greatly from fatigue, hunger, and the heat. The man had lost his companions forty-eight hours before he was discovered, and there were no updates about them for several days, despite boats continuously searching the northwest arm and the lower part of the harbor.

Three of these miserable people were some time after met by some officers who were on an excursion to the lagoon between this harbour and Broken Bay; but, notwithstanding their situation, they did not readily give themselves up, and, when questioned, said they wanted nothing more than to live free from labour. These people were sent up to Parramatta, whence, regardless of what they had experienced, and might again suffer, they a second time absconded in a few days after they had been returned. Parties were immediately dispatched from that settlement, and thirteen of those who first absconded were brought in, in a state of deplorable wretchedness, naked, and nearly worn out with hunger. Some of them had subsisted chiefly by sucking the flowering shrubs and wild berries of the woods; and the whole exhibited a picture of misery, that seemed sufficient to deter others from the like extravagant folly. The practice of flying from labour into the woods still, however, prevailing, the governor caused all the convicts who arrived this year to be assembled, and informed them of his determination to put a stop to their absconding from the place where he had appointed them to labour, by sending out parties with orders to fire upon them whenever they should be met with; and he declared that if any were brought in alive, he would either land them on a part of the harbour whence they could not depart, or chain them together with only bread and water for their subsistence, during the remainder of their terms of transportation. He likewise told them, that he had heard they were intending to arm themselves and seize upon the stores (such a design had for some days been reported); but that if they made any attempt of that kind, every man who might be taken should be instantly put to death. Having thus endeavoured to impress them with ideas of certain punishment if they offended in future, he forgave some offences which had been reported by the magistrate, exhorted them to go cheerfully to their labour, and changed their hours of work, agreeably to a request which they had made.

Three of these unfortunate people were later encountered by some officers who were on a trip to the lagoon between this harbor and Broken Bay. Despite their situation, they were reluctant to surrender and, when asked, stated that they wanted nothing more than to live without having to work. These individuals were sent to Parramatta, but regardless of what they had been through and might face again, they escaped once more just a few days after their return. Parties were quickly dispatched from that settlement, and thirteen of those who initially fled were brought back in a state of terrible distress, naked and nearly exhausted from hunger. Some had survived mainly by sucking on flowering shrubs and wild berries in the woods, creating a scene of misery that seemed enough to dissuade others from trying the same reckless escape. However, the tendency to flee from labor into the woods persisted, so the governor ordered all the convicts who had arrived that year to be gathered and informed them of his intention to stop their escapes by sending out groups with orders to shoot them if they were found. He declared that anyone brought back alive would either be placed on a part of the harbor where they could not escape or chained together, surviving only on bread and water for the rest of their transportation terms. He also notified them that he had heard they were planning to arm themselves and take the supplies (which had been rumored for a few days). He warned that if they attempted such a thing, anyone caught would be executed immediately. After emphasizing the certainty of punishment for future offenses, he pardoned some of the transgressions reported by the magistrate, urged them to work cheerfully, and adjusted their working hours according to a request they had made.

Four hundred and two of these miserable people had received medicines from the hospital in the morning of the day when the governor had thus addressed them. The prevailing disease was a dysentery, which was accompanied by a general debility.

Four hundred and two of these unfortunate people had received medicine from the hospital that morning when the governor spoke to them. The common illness was dysentery, which came along with a general weakness.

The Queen sailed early in the month with an officer and a detachment of the New South Wales corps, some convicts, stores and provisions, for Norfolk Island. The Salamander sailed at the same time on her fishing voyage.

The Queen set sail early in the month with an officer and a group from the New South Wales corps, along with some convicts, supplies, and provisions, headed for Norfolk Island. The Salamander departed at the same time for her fishing trip.

From her intended trial of the whale-fishery on the coast the Britannia arrived on the 10th, and was followed the next day by the Mary Ann. Mr. Melvill killed, in company with the William and Ann, the day after he went out, seven spermaceti whales, two only of which they were able to secure from the bad weather which immediately succeeded. From the whale which fell to the Britannia's share, although but a small one, thirteen barrels of oil were procured; and in the opinion of Mr. Melvill, the oil, from its containing a greater proportion of that valuable part of the fish called by the whalers the head-matter, was worth ten pounds more per ton than that of the fish of any other part of the world he had been in. He thought that a most advantageous voyage might be made upon this coast, as he was confident upwards of fifteen thousand whales were seen in the first ten days that he was absent, the greater number of which were observed off this harbour; and he was prevented from filling his ship by bad weather alone, having met with only one day since he sailed in which he could lower down a boat.

On her planned trial of the whale fishery on the coast, the Britannia arrived on the 10th, followed the next day by the Mary Ann. Mr. Melvill, along with the William and Ann, managed to kill seven spermaceti whales the day after they set out, but due to the bad weather that followed, they could only secure two of them. From the whale caught by the Britannia, although it was small, they got thirteen barrels of oil; Mr. Melvill believed this oil was worth ten pounds more per ton than the oil from any other part of the world he had visited, as it contained a higher proportion of the valuable part of the whale known to whalers as the head-matter. He felt that a very profitable voyage could be made along this coast since he was confident that over fifteen thousand whales had been spotted during the first ten days of his absence, with most of them seen off this harbor. He was only prevented from filling his ship by the bad weather, having only had one day since setting sail when he could lower a boat.

The success and report of the master of the Mary Ann were very different; he had been as far to the southward as the latitude of 45 degrees without seeing a whale; and in a gale of wind shipped a sea that stove two of his boats, and washed down the vessels for boiling the oil, which were fixed in brick-work, and to repair which he came into this harbour.

The journey and account of the captain of the Mary Ann were quite different; he had traveled as far south as latitude 45 degrees without spotting a whale; and during a heavy storm, a wave damaged two of his boats and knocked over the oil boiling vessels, which were secured in brickwork, leading him to come into this harbor for repairs.

The Matilda came in a few days afterwards from Jervis Bay, in latitude 35 degrees 6 minutes S and longitude 152 degrees 0 minutes E, where she had anchored for some days, being leaky. The master of this ship, Mr. Matthew Weatherhead, saw many whales, but was prevented from killing any by the badness of the weather.

The Matilda arrived a few days later from Jervis Bay, at a latitude of 35 degrees 6 minutes S and longitude 152 degrees 0 minutes E, where she had been anchored for several days due to being leaky. The captain of the ship, Mr. Matthew Weatherhead, spotted many whales but couldn’t hunt any because of the terrible weather.

The William and Ann came in soon after, confirming the report of the great numbers of fish which were to be seen upon the coast, and the difficulty of getting at them. She had killed only one fish, and came in to repair and shorten her main-mast.

The William and Ann arrived shortly after, verifying the report about the huge amounts of fish visible along the coast and the challenge of reaching them. She had only caught one fish and returned to fix and shorten her main mast.

A difference of opinion prevailed among the masters of the ships which had been out respecting the establishing a whale-fishery upon this coast. In one particular, however, they all agreed, which was, that the coast abounded with fish; but the major part of them thought that the currents and bad weather prevailing at this season of the year, and which appeared to be also the season of the fish, would prevent any ships from meeting with that success, of which on their setting out they themselves had had such sanguine hopes. One of them thought that the others, in giving this opinion, were premature, and that they were not sufficiently acquainted with the weather on the coast to form any judgment of the advantage to be derived from future attempts. They were determined, nevertheless, to give it another trial, on the failure of which they meant to prosecute their voyage to the coast of Peru. Having set up their rigging, they went out again toward the latter end of the month.

A disagreement arose among the captains of the ships that had been out regarding the establishment of a whale-fishing industry along this coast. However, they all shared one opinion: that the coast was full of fish. The majority believed that the currents and rough weather typical for this time of year, which also seemed to be the season for the fish, would prevent any ships from achieving the success they had initially hoped for. One captain argued that the others were jumping to conclusions and lacked enough knowledge about the coastal weather to judge the potential benefits of future attempts. Nevertheless, they were determined to make another effort, and if that failed, they planned to continue their voyage to the coast of Peru. After setting up their rigging, they headed out again towards the end of the month.

About the middle of the month an alteration took place in the ration; two pounds of flour were taken off, and one pint of peas and one pint of oatmeal were issued in their stead; the full ration, which was first served on the 27th of August last, having been continued not quite three months.

About the middle of the month, there was a change in the ration; two pounds of flour were taken away, and one pint of peas and one pint of oatmeal were given instead; the full ration, which was first provided on August 27th last year, had been in place for just under three months.

The Supply armed tender, having completed her repairs, sailed for England on the 26th, her commander, Lieutenant Ball, purposing to make his passage round Cape Horn, for which the season of the year was favourable. Lieutenant John Creswell of the marines went in her, charged with the governor's dispatches.

The Supply armed tender, after finishing her repairs, set sail for England on the 26th, with her commander, Lieutenant Ball, planning to navigate around Cape Horn, as the time of year was suitable for it. Lieutenant John Creswell of the marines joined her, tasked with delivering the governor's dispatches.

The services of this little vessel had endeared her, and her officers and people, to this colony. The regret which we felt at parting with them was, however, lessened by a knowledge that they were flying from a country of want to one of abundance, where we all hoped that the services they had performed would be rewarded by that attention and promotion to which they naturally looked up, and had an indisputable claim.

The services of this little ship had won the affection of her and her crew among the colony. Our sadness at saying goodbye was eased by the understanding that they were leaving a place of scarcity for one of plenty, where we all hoped that the efforts they had made would be recognized and lead to the attention and advancement they rightfully deserved.

At this time the public live stock in the settlement consisted of one stallion aged, one mare, two young stallions, two colts, sixteen cows, two calves, one ram, fifty ewes, six lambs, one boar, fourteen sows (old and young), and twenty-two pigs.

At this time, the public livestock in the settlement consisted of one aged stallion, one mare, two young stallions, two colts, sixteen cows, two calves, one ram, fifty ewes, six lambs, one boar, fourteen sows (both old and young), and twenty-two pigs.

The ground in cultivation at and about Parramatta amounted to three hundred and fifty-one acres in maize, forty-four in wheat, six in barley, one in oats, two in potatoes, four in vines, eighty-six in garden ground, and seventeen in cultivation by the New South Wales corps. In addition to these there were one hundred and fifty acres cleared to be sown with turnips, ninety-one acres were in cultivation by settlers, twenty-eight by officers civil and military at and about Sydney; and at Parramatta one hundred and forty acres were inclosed and the timber thinned for cattle; making a total of nine hundred and twenty acres of land thinned, cleared, and cultivated.

The land being farmed around Parramatta covered three hundred and fifty-one acres of corn, forty-four acres of wheat, six acres of barley, one acre of oats, two acres of potatoes, four acres of vines, eighty-six acres of garden space, and seventeen acres farmed by the New South Wales corps. Additionally, there were one hundred and fifty acres cleared to be planted with turnips, ninety-one acres cultivated by settlers, and twenty-eight acres by civil and military officers in and around Sydney; at Parramatta, one hundred and forty acres were fenced in and the trees cleared for cattle, bringing the total to nine hundred and twenty acres of land cleared, thinned, and farmed.

The platform at the west point of the cove was completed during this month. The flag-staff had been for some time erected, and the cannon placed on the platform. A corporal's guard was also mounted daily in the building which had been used as an observatory by Lieutenant Dawes.

The platform at the west point of the cove was finished this month. The flagpole had been put up for a while, and the cannon was positioned on the platform. A corporal's guard was also posted daily in the building that had been used as an observatory by Lieutenant Dawes.

The mortality during this month had been great, fifty male and four female convicts dying within the thirty days. Five hundred sick persons received medicines at the end of the month. That list however was decreasing. The extreme heat of the weather during the month had not only increased the sick list, but had added one to the number of deaths. On the 4th, a convict attending upon Mr. White, in passing from his house to his kitchen. without any covering upon his head, received a stroke from a ray of the sun, which at the time deprived him of speech and motion, and, in less than four-and-twenty hours, of his life. The thermometer on that day stood at twelve o'clock at 94¾ degrees and the wind was at NW.

The death toll during this month was high, with fifty male and four female convicts dying over thirty days. By the end of the month, five hundred sick individuals received medication, but that number was decreasing. The extreme heat experienced this month not only increased the number of sick but also contributed to the number of deaths. On the 4th, a convict who was helping Mr. White, while walking from his house to the kitchen without any head covering, suffered a heatstroke from the sun that left him unable to speak or move, and he died in less than twenty-four hours. The thermometer at noon that day registered 94¾ degrees, with the wind coming from the northwest.

By the dry weather which prevailed our water had been so much affected, beside being lessened by the watering of some of the transports, that a prohibition was laid by the governor on the watering of the remainder at Sydney, and their boats were directed to go to a convenient place upon the north shore. To remedy this evil the governor had employed the stone-mason's gang to cut tanks out of the rock, which would be reservoirs for the water large enough to supply the settlement for some time.

Due to the dry weather, our water supply had been significantly impacted, in addition to being reduced by the watering of some of the transport vessels. As a result, the governor imposed a ban on watering the remaining ships at Sydney, and their boats were instructed to go to a suitable spot on the north shore. To address this issue, the governor had the stone mason crew work on carving tanks out of the rock, which would serve as reservoirs large enough to supply the settlement for an extended period.

December.] On the 3rd of this month the ships Albemarle and Active sailed for India. After their departure several people were missing from the settlement; some whose sentences of transportation had expired, and others who were yet convicts. Previous to their sailing (it having been reported that the seamen intended to conceal such as had made interest among them to get off) the governor instructed the master to deliver any persons whom he might discover to be on board without permission to quit the colony, as prisoners to the commanding officer of the first British settlement they should touch at in India. About this time a boat belonging to Mr. White was taken from its mooring; and it was for a time supposed that she had been taken off by some runaways to get on board one of the ships then about to sail, and afterwards set adrift; but she was found by some gentlemen of the Gorgon the day after their departure, between this harbour and Broken Bay, with two men in her, who on the appearance of the party which found her ran into the woods. The gentlemen left her with a plank knocked out, an oar and the rudder broken, and otherwise rendered useless to the people who ran away with her. They also fell in with a convict, an Irishman, who had been absent five weeks from Parramatta, and who had set off with some others to proceed along the coast in search of another settlement. The boat was brought up a few days afterwards.

December. On the 3rd of this month, the ships Albemarle and Active left for India. After they departed, several people went missing from the settlement; some whose sentences of transportation had ended, and others who were still convicts. Before their sailing (since it was reported that the sailors planned to hide those who had tried to bribe them to escape), the governor instructed the captain to hand over any individuals he discovered onboard without permission to leave the colony, as prisoners to the commanding officer of the first British settlement they reached in India. Around this time, a boat belonging to Mr. White was taken from its mooring. For a while, it was thought that it was taken by some runaways trying to board one of the ships that were about to sail, and then set adrift; but it was found by some gentlemen from the Gorgon the day after their departure, between this harbor and Broken Bay, with two men in it, who ran into the woods when they saw the party that found them. The gentlemen left the boat with a plank knocked out, a broken oar, and a damaged rudder, making it useless to the people who had run away with it. They also encountered a convict, an Irishman, who had been missing for five weeks from Parramatta, and who had left with some others to travel along the coast in search of another settlement. The boat was recovered a few days later.

Two of the whalers, the Matilda and Mary Ann, came in from sea the day on which the other ships sailed. The former landed a boat in a bay on the coast about six miles to the southward of Port Stephens, where the seine was hauled and a large quantity of fish taken; but of the fish which they went to procure (whales) they saw none.

Two of the whalers, the Matilda and Mary Ann, returned from sea on the same day the other ships set sail. The Matilda dropped off a boat in a bay along the coast about six miles south of Port Stephens, where they pulled in a seine and caught a lot of fish; however, they didn’t spot any of the whales they were actually looking for.

The Mary Ann was rather more fortunate. By going to the southward, she killed nine fish; of five of them she secured enough to procure about thirty barrels of oil; but was prevented by bad weather from getting more. These ships sailed again immediately, and both ran down the coast as far to the southward as 36 degrees 30 minutes, and returned on the 16th without killing a fish. The masters attributed their bad success to currents; and, giving up all hopes of a fishery here, they determined, after refitting, to quit the coast. The Salamander and Britannia whalers came in at the same time, and with like ill fortune. Melvill the master of the Britannia, who had been formerly so sanguine in his hopes of a fishery, seemed now to have adopted a different opinion, and hinted to some in the colony, that he did not think he should try the coast any longer. It must be remarked however, that the whalers were not out of port at any one time long enough to enable them to speak with any great degree of precision either for or against the probability of success. They seemed more desirous of obtaining a knowledge of the harbours on the coast; the William and Ann had been seen in Broken Bay; others had visited Botany Bay and Jervis Bay; the Salamander had remained long enough in Port Stephens (an harbour to the northward, until then not visited by any one) to take an eye-sketch of the harbour and of some of its branches or arms; and Port Jackson was found to have its conveniences. After a well-manned and well-found whaler should have kept the sea for an entire season, the success might be determined.

The Mary Ann had somewhat better luck. By heading south, she caught nine fish; from five of those, she gathered enough to get about thirty barrels of oil, but bad weather stopped her from catching more. The ships set sail again right away, both traveling down the coast as far south as 36 degrees 30 minutes, and returned on the 16th without catching any fish. The captains blamed their poor results on the currents and, losing hope for a successful catch here, decided to leave the coast after restocking. The Salamander and Britannia whalers arrived at the same time, facing similar bad luck. Melvill, the captain of the Britannia, who had previously been very optimistic about the fishing prospects, now seemed to have changed his mind and suggested to some in the colony that he might not try the coast again. It's worth noting, however, that the whalers hadn't spent enough time at sea to provide a reliable assessment of the chances for success. They appeared more interested in learning about the harbors along the coast; the William and Ann had been spotted in Broken Bay; others had checked out Botany Bay and Jervis Bay; the Salamander had stayed long enough in Port Stephens—an untouched harbor to the north—to sketch its layout and some of its branches; and Port Jackson turned out to have its advantages. After a properly crewed and equipped whaler had spent an entire season at sea, the chances of success could be properly evaluated.

The Queen transport having returned from Norfolk Island, with the lieutenant-governor and the officers and soldiers of the marine corps, who were to take their passage to England in the Gorgon, the greatest part of the marine detachment embarked on board of that ship on the 13th. Those who did not embark were left for the duty of the place until the remainder of the New South Wales corps should arrive.

The Queen transport returned from Norfolk Island, bringing the lieutenant-governor and the officers and soldiers of the marine corps, who were set to travel to England on the Gorgon. Most of the marine detachment boarded that ship on the 13th. Those who didn't board stayed behind to handle duties at the location until the rest of the New South Wales corps arrived.

By the Queen several convicts whose sentences of transportation had expired were allowed to return to this settlement, pursuant to a promise made them on their going thither; and we were informed, that the Atlantic sailed from Norfolk Island for Calcutta on the 13th of the last month. Both ships landed safely every article they had on board for the colony, being favoured by very fine weather while so employed. Lieutenant-governor King, on taking upon him the government of the island, pardoned all offenders whom he found in custody.

By the Queen, several convicts whose sentences of transportation had expired were allowed to return to this settlement, as promised to them when they first arrived. We were told that the Atlantic left Norfolk Island for Calcutta on the 13th of last month. Both ships successfully delivered everything they had on board for the colony, enjoying very nice weather while doing so. Lieutenant-governor King, upon taking charge of the island, pardoned all offenders he found in custody.

Governor Phillip having no further occasion for the services of the Gorgon, that ship sailed for England on Sunday the 18th. Two convicts had the folly to attempt making their escape from the colony in this ship, but they were detected and brought back. A woman was also supposed to have effected her escape; but she was found disguised in men's apparel at the native's hut on the east point of the cove.

Governor Phillip, having no more use for the Gorgon, sent the ship back to England on Sunday the 18th. Two convicts foolishly tried to escape from the colony on this ship, but they were caught and returned. A woman was also thought to have successfully escaped, but she was discovered disguised in men's clothing at a native's hut on the east point of the cove.

On board of the Gorgon were embarked the marines who came from England in the first ships; as valuable a corps as any in his Majesty's service. They had struggled here with greatly more than the common hardships of service, and were now quitting a country in which they had opened and smoothed the way for their successors, and from which, whatever benefit might hereafter be derived, must be derived by those who had the easy task of treading in paths previously and painfully formed by them.

On board the Gorgon were the marines who had arrived from England on the first ships; a unit as valuable as any in His Majesty's service. They had dealt with far more than the usual challenges of military duty, and were now leaving a country where they had paved the way for those who would come after them. Any benefits gained in the future would come from those who had the easier task of walking the paths that they had painstakingly created.

The cove and the settlement were now resuming that dull uniformity of uninteresting circumstances which had generally prevailed. The Supply and the Gorgon had departed, and with them a valuable portion of our friends and associates. The transports which remained were all preparing to leave us, and in a few days after the Gorgon, the Matilda and Mary Ann sailed for the coast of Peru. These ships had some convicts on board, who were permitted to ship themselves with the masters.

The cove and the settlement were falling back into the dull routine of boring circumstances that had usually been the case. The Supply and the Gorgon had left, taking a valuable part of our friends and colleagues with them. The remaining ships were all getting ready to leave us, and a few days after the Gorgon, the Matilda and Mary Ann set sail for the coast of Peru. These ships had some convicts on board, who were allowed to sign on with the captains.

A further reduction of the ration was directed to take place at the end of the month, one pound being taken from the allowance of flour served to the men. From the state of the provision stores, the governor, on Christmas Day, could only give one pound of flour to each woman in the settlement. On that day divine service was performed here and at Parramatta, Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the new corps, assisting Mr. Johnson in the religious duties of the morning. There were some among us, however, by whom even the sanctity of this day was not regarded; for at night the marine store was robbed of twenty-two gallons of spirits.

A further cut to the ration was scheduled for the end of the month, with one pound being deducted from the flour allowance given to the men. Based on the state of the provision stores, the governor could only provide one pound of flour to each woman in the settlement on Christmas Day. That day, a church service was held here and at Parramatta, with Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the new corps, helping Mr. Johnson with the morning's religious duties. However, there were some among us who didn't even respect the sanctity of this day; at night, the marine store was robbed of twenty-two gallons of spirits.

At Parramatta various offences were still committed, notwithstanding the lenity which had been shown to several offenders at the close of the last month. Many of the convicts there not having any part of their ration left when Tuesday or Wednesday night came, the governor directed, as he had before done from the same reason, that the provisions of the labouring convicts should be issued to them daily. This measure being disapproved of by them, they assembled in rather a tumultuous manner before the governor's house at Parramatta on the last day of the month, to request that their provisions might be served as usual on the Saturdays. The governor, however, dispersed them without granting their request; and as they were heard to murmur, and talk of obtaining by different means what was refused to entreaty (words spoken among the crowd, and the person who was so daring not being distinguishable from the rest), he assured them that as he knew the major part of them were led by eight or ten designing men to whom they looked up, and to whose names he was not a stranger, on any open appearance of discontent, he should make immediate examples of them. Before they were dismissed they promised greater propriety of conduct and implicit obedience to the orders of their superiors, and declared their readiness to receive their provisions as had been directed.

At Parramatta, various offenses were still happening, despite the leniency shown to several offenders at the end of the previous month. Many of the convicts there had run out of their rations by Tuesday or Wednesday night, so the governor instructed, as he had done before for the same reason, that the provisions for the working convicts should be issued to them daily. This decision was not well received by them, and they gathered in a somewhat disorderly fashion outside the governor's house at Parramatta on the last day of the month to request that their provisions be served as usual on Saturdays. However, the governor sent them away without granting their request. As they were heard murmuring and discussing other ways to get what they had been denied through requests (with no one person standing out in the crowd), he assured them that he knew most of them were being led by eight or ten scheming men whose names he recognized. He warned that if there were any signs of discontent, he would make immediate examples of them. Before they were dismissed, they promised to behave properly and obey their superiors' orders, and said they were ready to accept their provisions as directed.

This was the first instance of any tumultuous assembly among these people, and was now to be ascribed to the spirit of resistance and villany lately imported by the new comers from England and Ireland.

This was the first time there was any chaotic gathering among these people, and it could now be attributed to the spirit of rebellion and wickedness recently brought in by the newcomers from England and Ireland.

Among the public works of the month the most material was the completing and occupying the new store on the east side, which was begun in October last; its dimensions were eighty by twenty-four feet; and as it was built for the purpose of containing dry stores, the height was increased beyond that commonly adopted here, and a spacious loft was formed capable of containing a large quantity of bale goods. This was by far the best store in the country.

Among the public works of the month, the most significant was finishing and moving into the new store on the east side, which started in October. Its dimensions were eighty by twenty-four feet, and since it was built to hold dry goods, the height was raised above what is typically used here, creating a large loft that could hold a substantial amount of bale goods. This was easily the best store in the country.

In the course of the month a warrant of emancipation passed the seal of the territory to John Lowe, Henry Cone, Richard Chears, Thomas Fisk, Daniel Cubitt, Charles Pass, George Bolton, William Careless, William Curtis, John Chapman Morris, Thomas Merrick, William Skinner, and James Weavers, convicts who left England in the Guardian, on condition of their residing within the limits of this government, and not returning to England within the period of their respective sentences. Instructions to this effect had been received from home, Lieutenant Riou having interested himself much in their behalf. They were to be at liberty to work at any trade they might be acquainted with; but during their continuance in the country they were to be disposed of wherever the governor should think proper. They were also at liberty to settle land upon their own account.

During the month, a warrant for emancipation was issued to John Lowe, Henry Cone, Richard Chears, Thomas Fisk, Daniel Cubitt, Charles Pass, George Bolton, William Careless, William Curtis, John Chapman Morris, Thomas Merrick, William Skinner, and James Weavers, who were convicts that left England on the Guardian. They could stay as long as they lived within the boundaries of this government and didn’t return to England before their sentences were up. Instructions came from home, with Lieutenant Riou advocating strongly for them. They were free to work in any trade they knew, but while they were in the country, the governor could decide where they would be placed. They were also allowed to claim land for themselves.

The numbers who died by sickness in the year 1791 were, one of the civil establishment (H. E. Dodd); two soldiers; one hundred and fifty-five male and eight female convicts; and five children: in all one hundred and seventy-one persons (twenty-eight more than had died during the preceding year).

The number of people who died from illness in 1791 included one member of the civil establishment (H. E. Dodd), two soldiers, one hundred fifty-five male convicts, eight female convicts, and five children: a total of one hundred seventy-one people (twenty-eight more than the previous year).

In the above time one male convict was executed; one drowned; four lost in the woods (exclusive of the Irish convicts who had absconded, of whom no certain account was procured); one destroyed himself, and eight men, one woman, and two children, had run from the settlement; making a loss of one hundred and eighty-nine persons.

In that time, one male convict was executed; one drowned; four went missing in the woods (not counting the Irish convicts who had escaped, about whom no detailed information was obtained); one took his own life, and eight men, one woman, and two children had fled the settlement; resulting in a total loss of one hundred and eighty-nine people.

CHAPTER XVI

The Queen is headed for Norfolk Island
Whalers on their fishing trips
Convicts missing
Various thefts
Dispensary and bakery robbed
Proclamation
A criminal court is held
Convict executed
Transactions
The Pitt arrives with Lieutenant-Governor Grose
Military duty assigned to Parramatta
Goods being sold in Sydney from the Pitt
The Pitt is set to go to Norfolk Island
Commissions announced
Sickness
The Pitt leaves
Mr. Burton killed
Stormy weather
Public works
Regulations for those who have completed their sentences
Natives

1792.]

1792.

January.] Early in this month sixty-two people, settlers and convicts, with Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the New South Wales corps, who offered his services, as there never had been a clergyman there, embarked on board the Queen transport for Norfolk Island, the master of that ship having engaged to carry them and a certain quantity of provisions thither for the sum of £150. Of the settlers twenty-two were lately discharged from the marine service, and the remainder were convicts; some of the latter, whose terms of transportation had expired, had chosen Norfolk Island to settle in, and others were sent to be employed for the public.

January.] Early this month, sixty-two people, including settlers and convicts, along with Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the New South Wales corps, who volunteered his services since there had never been a clergyman there, boarded the Queen transport for Norfolk Island. The captain of that ship agreed to take them and a certain amount of supplies for £150. Of the settlers, twenty-two had recently been released from marine service, while the rest were convicts; some of the latter had completed their sentences and chose to settle on Norfolk Island, while others were sent to work for the public.

This ship, with the Admiral Barrington for India, sailed on the 6th; and the Salamander and Britannia whalers on the 7th, the masters of the two latter ships signifying an intention of cruising for three months upon this coast; at the end of which time, according to their success, they would either return to this port, or pursue their voyage to the northward.

This ship, the Admiral Barrington, left for India on the 6th, while the whalers Salamander and Britannia departed on the 7th. The captains of the latter two ships mentioned their plan to hunt in these waters for three months, after which they would either come back to this port or continue their journey north, depending on how successful they were.

Several convicts attempted to escape from the settlement on board of these ships, some of whom were discovered before they sailed, and, being brought on shore, were punished; but there was great reason to suppose that others were secreted by the connivance of the seamen, and eluded the repeated searches which were made for them.

Several convicts tried to escape from the settlement on these ships. Some were caught before they set sail and were brought back to shore for punishment. However, there was strong reason to believe that others were hidden with the help of the crew and managed to dodge the numerous searches conducted for them.

In addition to this exportation, the colony lost some useful people whom it could ill spare; but who, their terms of transportation having expired, would not be induced to remain in the settlement, and could not be prevented from quitting it.

In addition to this exportation, the colony lost some valuable people it could hardly afford to lose; however, once their transportation terms were up, they wouldn’t agree to stay in the settlement and couldn’t be stopped from leaving.

By the commissary's report of the muster it appeared, that forty-four men and nine women were absent and unaccounted for; among which number were included those who were wandering in the woods, seeking for a new settlement, or endeavouring to get into the path to China! Of these people many, after lingering a long time, and existing merely on roots and wild berries, perished miserably. Others found their way in, after being absent several weeks, and reported the fate of their wretched companions, being themselves reduced to nearly the same condition, worn down and exhausted with fatigue and want of proper sustenance. Yet, although the appearance of these people confirmed their account of what they had undergone, others were still found ignorant and weak enough to run into the woods impressed with the idea of either reaching China by land, or finding a new settlement where labour would not be imposed on them, and where the inhabitants were civil and peaceable. Two of these wretches at the time of their absconding met a convict in their way not far from the new grounds, whom they robbed of his provisions, and beat in so cruel a manner that, after languishing for some time, he died in the hospital at Parramatta. He described their persons, and mentioned their names, with the precise circumstances attending their treatment of him, and it was hoped that they would have lived to return, and receive the reward of their crime; but one of their companions who survived them brought in an account of their having ended a wicked and miserable existence in the woods.

By the commissary's report of the muster, it appeared that forty-four men and nine women were absent and unaccounted for; among them were those who were wandering in the woods, looking for a new settlement, or trying to find a way to China! Many of these people, after a long time of surviving only on roots and wild berries, died in terrible conditions. Others eventually returned after being gone for several weeks and reported what happened to their unfortunate companions, having been reduced to nearly the same state, worn out and exhausted from fatigue and lack of proper food. Yet, despite the condition of these returnees confirming their stories, some people were still foolish and weak enough to run into the woods, convinced they could either reach China overland or find a new settlement where they wouldn’t have to work and where the locals were friendly and peaceful. Two of these unfortunate souls, when they ran away, encountered a convict near the new grounds, whom they robbed of his provisions and beat so brutally that he eventually died in the hospital at Parramatta. He described their appearance and mentioned their names, along with the exact details of how they treated him, and there was hope that they would be caught and face the consequences of their crime; however, one of their surviving companions later reported that they had ended their wicked and miserable lives in the woods.

Depredations being nightly committed at the skirts of the town, and at the officers' farms, by some of these vagrants, who were supposed to lurk between this place and Parramatta, it was thought necessary to send armed parties out at night for a certain distance round the settlement, with orders to seize, or fire on, all persons found straggling; and several were detected by them in the act of robbing the gardens at the different farms. Indeed neither the property nor the persons of individuals were safe for some time. Two villains came to a hut which was occupied by one Williams a sawyer, and which he had erected at a spot at some distance from the town where he could have a little garden ground, and attempted to rob him; but the owner surprised them, and, in endeavouring to secure them, was wounded so severely in the arm with a tomahawk, that the tendon was divided; and it was supposed that he never would recover the perfect use of the limb. They even carried their audacity so far, as to be secretly meditating an attempt upon the barrack and storehouse at Parramatta; at least, information of such a plan was given by some of the convicts; and as there had been seen among them people silly enough to undertake to walk to the other side of this extensive continent, expecting that China would be found there, it was not at all improbable that some might be mad enough to persuade others that it would be an easy matter to attempt and carry the barracks and stores there. But no other use was made of the report than the exertion of double vigilance in the guards, which was done without making public the true motive. To the credit of the convicts who came out in the first fleet it must be remarked, that none of them were concerned in these offences; and of them it was said the new comers stood so much in dread, that they never were admitted to any share in their confidence.

Nightly attacks were taking place on the edges of the town and at the officers' farms by some of these vagrants, who were thought to be hiding between here and Parramatta. It was deemed necessary to send out armed groups at night to patrol a certain distance around the settlement, with orders to detain or shoot anyone found wandering about. Several individuals were caught in the act of stealing from the gardens at various farms. For a time, neither property nor personal safety was guaranteed. Two criminals approached a hut occupied by a sawyer named Williams, which he had built at a spot far from town so he could have a small garden. They attempted to rob him, but he surprised them, and while trying to capture them, he was severely injured in the arm with a tomahawk, causing a tendon to be severed; it was believed that he would never fully recover the use of his arm. Their boldness even extended to secretly planning an attack on the barracks and storehouse in Parramatta; at least, some convicts reported such a plan. Given that there were people among them foolish enough to think they could walk across the entire continent expecting to find China on the other side, it wasn't completely implausible that some might be crazy enough to convince others it would be easy to take the barracks and supplies. However, the only action taken in response to the report was increased vigilance among the guards, which was implemented without disclosing the real reason. It's worth noting that none of the convicts from the first fleet were involved in these crimes, and the newcomers were said to fear them so much that they were never trusted.

As the Indian corn began to ripen the convicts recommenced their depredations, and many were punished with a severity seemingly calculated to deter others, but actually without effect. They appeared to be a people wholly regardless of the future, and not dreading any thing that was not immediately present to their own feelings. It was well known that punishment would follow the detection of a crime; but their constant reliance was on a hope of escaping that detection; and they were very rarely known to stand forward in bringing offenders to punishment, although such rewards were held out as one would imagine were sufficient to induce them. It being necessary to secure four dangerous people, who, after committing offences, had withdrawn into the woods, a reward of fifty pounds of flour was offered for the apprehension of either of them, but only one was taken.

As the Indian corn started to ripen, the convicts resumed their plundering, and many were punished with a severity that seemed aimed at deterring others, but it didn't really work. They seemed to be a group completely indifferent to the future, not fearing anything that wasn't immediately affecting them. Everyone knew that punishment would follow once a crime was discovered, but they placed their hope in escaping that discovery; they rarely came forward to report offenders, even though rewards were offered that one would think would be enough to encourage them. When it became necessary to capture four dangerous individuals who had fled into the woods after committing crimes, a reward of fifty pounds of flour was offered for the capture of any one of them, but only one was caught.

The easy communication between Sydney and Parramatta had been found to be a very great evil from the time the path was first made; but since the numbers had been so much augmented at Parramatta, it became absolutely necessary to put a stop to the intercourse. The distance was about sixteen miles; and, unless information was previously given, a person would visit Sydney and return without being missed: and as stolen property was transferred from one place to another by means of this quick conveyance, orders were given calculated to cut off all unlicensed intercourse.

The easy communication between Sydney and Parramatta had been seen as a significant problem since the path was first created. However, as the population in Parramatta grew, it became essential to stop this interaction. The distance was about sixteen miles, and if someone didn’t notify anyone beforehand, they could go to Sydney and return without anyone noticing. Since stolen goods were moved quickly between the two places using this route, measures were implemented to eliminate all unauthorized communication.

A report having been falsely propagated at Parramatta, that it was intended by the governor to take the corn of individuals on the public account, the settlers and convicts who had raised maize or other grain, and who were not provided with proper places to secure it in, were informed, that they might send it to the public store, and draw it from thence as their occasions required; and farther, that they were at liberty to dispose of such live stock, corn, grain, or vegetables, which they might raise, as they found convenient to themselves, the property of every individual being equally secured to him, and by the same law, whether belonging to a free man or a convict. Such of the above articles as they could not otherwise dispose of, they were told, would be purchased by the commissary on the public account at a fair market-price.

A report that was falsely spread in Parramatta claimed that the governor planned to seize individuals' corn for public use. The settlers and convicts who grew maize or other grains, and who didn't have proper storage for it, were informed that they could send it to the public store and take it back as needed. Additionally, they were free to sell any livestock, corn, grain, or vegetables they produced as they saw fit, with each person's property equally protected by the same law, whether they were a free person or a convict. Those who couldn't sell their surplus were told that the commissary would buy it for public use at a fair market price.

Toward the latter end of the month some villains broke into the dispensary at the hospital, and stole two cases of portable soup, one case of camomile flowers, and one case containing sudorific powder. These articles had been placed in the dispensary on the very evening it was broken into, to be sent to Parramatta the following morning. The cases with the camomile and sudorific powder (which perhaps they had taken for sugar or flour) were found at the back of the hill behind the hospital; and, in order to discover the persons concerned in this theft, as well as those who maimed the sawyer, as before related, a proclamation was published, offering to any person or persons giving such information as should convict the principal offenders, a free pardon for every offence which he, she, or they might have committed since their arrival in this country; and that a full ration of provisions should be issued to such person or persons during the remainder of their respective terms of transportation.

Toward the end of the month, some criminals broke into the hospital's dispensary and stole two cases of portable soup, one case of chamomile flowers, and one case of diaphoretic powder. These items had just been delivered to the dispensary on the very evening of the break-in, to be sent to Parramatta the next morning. The cases containing the chamomile and diaphoretic powder (which they might have mistaken for sugar or flour) were found behind the hill at the back of the hospital. To identify those involved in this theft, as well as the individuals who harmed the sawyer, as mentioned before, a proclamation was issued. It offered anyone who provided information leading to the conviction of the main offenders a free pardon for any crimes committed since their arrival in the country, along with a full supply of provisions for the remainder of their transportation sentences.

Several people died at Parramatta, some of whom were at labour, apparently in health, and dead in twenty-four hours. An extraordinary circumstance attended, though it was not the cause of the death of one poor creature: while dragging with others at a brick cart he was seized with a fainting fit, and when he recovered was laid down under a cart which stood in the road, that he might be in the shade. Being weak and ill, he fell asleep. On waking, and feeling something tight about his neck, he put up his hand, when, to his amazement and horror, he grasped the folds of a large snake which had twined itself round his neck. In endeavouring to disengage it, the animal bit him by the lip, which became instantly tumid. Two men, passing by, took off the snake and threw it on the ground, when it erected itself and flew at one of them; but they soon killed it. The man who had fainted at the cart died the next morning, not, however, from any effect of the bite of the snake, but from a general debility.

Several people died in Parramatta, some of whom were working, apparently healthy, and dead within twenty-four hours. An unusual incident happened, though it wasn't the cause of one poor man's death: while he was helping with a brick cart, he had a fainting spell, and when he came to, he lay down under a cart that was in the road to stay in the shade. Weak and unwell, he fell asleep. When he woke up and felt something tight around his neck, he raised his hand, only to be shocked and horrified to find a large snake coiled around him. In trying to get free, the snake bit him on the lip, which quickly swelled. Two men walked by, removed the snake, and threw it on the ground, where it reared up and lunged at one of them; but they killed it soon after. The man who fainted by the cart passed away the next morning, but not from the snake bite—he died from general weakness.

At Parramatta the public bakehouse was broken into, and robbed of a large quantity of flour and biscuit. The robber had made his way down the chimney of the house, and, though a man and woman slept in the place, carried off his booty undiscovered.

At Parramatta, someone broke into the public bakehouse and stole a large amount of flour and biscuits. The thief came down the chimney of the building, and even though a man and a woman were sleeping there, he managed to take his loot without being caught.

The convicts having assembled there at the latter end of the last month in an improper and tumultuous manner, the governor now thought proper to issue a proclamation, directing that 'in case of any riot or disturbance among the convicts, every one who was seen out of his hut would (if such riot or disturbance should happen in the night, or during the hours of rest from labour, or if he were absent from his labour during the hours of work) be deemed to be aiding and assisting the rioters, and be punished accordingly.'

The prisoners gathered there at the end of last month in a disorderly and disruptive way, so the governor decided it was necessary to issue a proclamation stating that 'if there is any riot or disturbance among the prisoners, anyone found outside their hut (whether the disturbance happens at night, during rest hours, or if they are absent from work during work hours) will be considered to be helping the rioters and will be punished accordingly.'

The convicts were strictly forbidden ever to assemble in numbers under any pretence of stating a complaint, or for any other cause whatever, all complaints being to be made through the medium of the superintendants or overseers.

The convicts were strictly forbidden from gathering in groups for any reason, including to voice a complaint; all complaints had to be made through the superintendents or overseers.

A disobedience to this proclamation was to be punished with the utmost severity; and any person who, knowing of any intended riot or tumultuous and unlawful assembly among the convicts, did not take the first opportunity of informing either the commanding officer of the military or one of the superintendants thereof, would be deemed and punished as a principal in such riot.

A failure to obey this proclamation would be punished very harshly; and anyone who, knowing about any planned riot or unlawful gathering among the convicts, did not immediately inform either the commanding officer of the military or one of the supervisors would be considered and punished as if they were a main participant in that riot.

An instance of the profligacy of the convicts which occurred at this time is deserving of notice: a woman who had been entrusted to carry the allowance of flour belonging to two other women to the bakehouse, where she had run in debt for bread which she had taken up on their account, mixed with it a quantity of pounded stone, in the proportion of two-thirds of grit, to one of flour. Fortunately, she was detected before it had been mixed with other flour at the bakehouse, and was ordered to wear an iron collar for six months as a punishment.

An example of the reckless behavior of the convicts during this time is worth mentioning: a woman who was supposed to deliver the flour allowance meant for two other women to the bakehouse, where she had borrowed bread on their behalf, mixed in a large amount of crushed stone, using two-thirds grit to one part flour. Thankfully, she was caught before it was combined with other flour at the bakehouse and was sentenced to wear an iron collar for six months as punishment.

February.] A criminal court was held at Parramatta on the 7th of this month for the trial of James Collington, who, as before mentioned, had broken into the public bakehouse at that place by getting down the chimney in the night. It appeared that he had taken off about fifty pounds of flour, which he tied up in an apron that he found in the room, and the leg of a pair of trousers. He deposited the property under a rock, and occasionally visited it; but it was soon seized by some other nocturnal adventurer, and Collington then broke into another hut, wherein eight people were sleeping, and took thereout a box containing wearing apparel and provisions, without disturbing them, so soundly did fatigue make them sleep; but he was detected in a garden with the property, and secured. Being found guilty, he received sentence of death, and was executed early the following morning. At the tree he addressed the convicts, warning them to avoid the paths he had pursued; but said, that he was induced by hunger to commit the crime for which he suffered. He appeared desirous of death, declaring that he knew he could not live without stealing.

February.] A criminal court was held in Parramatta on the 7th of this month to trial James Collington, who, as mentioned earlier, had broken into the public bakehouse at night by coming down the chimney. It was reported that he had taken around fifty pounds of flour, which he packed in an apron he found in the room, along with the leg of a pair of trousers. He hid the stolen goods under a rock and visited it from time to time, but it was soon taken by another night-time thief. Afterward, Collington broke into another hut where eight people were sleeping and stole a box with clothes and food without waking them, as they were deeply asleep from exhaustion. However, he was caught in a garden with the stolen items and arrested. Found guilty, he was sentenced to death and executed early the next morning. At the gallows, he addressed the convicts, advising them to stay away from the paths he had taken, but admitted that hunger drove him to commit the crime for which he was punished. He seemed eager for death, saying that he knew he couldn't live without stealing.

Information having been received, that a great body of convicts at the new grounds intended to seize some arms which had been given to the settlers for their protection against the natives, and (after robbing their huts) to proceed to the sea-coast, where, destroying every person who should oppose them, they were to build a vessel, a convict who was said to be a ringleader was taken up, and, upon the information which he gave, five others were apprehended and chained together; in which situation they continued for some time, when their scheme having been defeated, and other steps taken to prevent their putting it in execution, they were liberated, and returned to their usual labour.

Information was received that a large group of convicts at the new grounds planned to take some weapons that had been provided to the settlers for protection against the natives. After robbing their huts, they intended to head to the coast, where they would kill anyone who got in their way and build a boat. One convict who was believed to be the ringleader was captured, and based on the information he provided, five others were arrested and chained together. They remained in that situation for a while, but once their plan was thwarted and measures were put in place to stop them from carrying it out, they were released and returned to their regular work.

Information would have been at all times more readily procured from these people, had they not been constantly apprehensive of receiving ill-treatment not only from the parties concerned, but from others who were not; and although every assurance of protection was given by those who were authorised to hold it out, yet it was not found sufficient to do away the dread they were said to labour under. Accident, or a quarrel among themselves, sometimes furnished information that was not otherwise to be procured; and in general to one or other of these causes was to be attributed every information that was received of any malpractices among them.

Information would have been much easier to obtain from these people if they hadn’t been so worried about being mistreated, not just by those directly involved but also by others. Even though those in authority provided plenty of guarantees of protection, it wasn’t enough to eliminate the fear they lived with. Occasionally, chance events or disagreements among themselves led to information that wouldn’t have been available otherwise; generally, any information received about their wrongdoings could be traced back to one of these causes.

A person who had been employed under one of the superintendants at Parramatta, and in whom, from an uniformity of good conduct during his residence in this country, some trust was at times placed, was detected in giving corn to a settler from the public granary, to which he had occasional access. The offence being fully proved, he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes, and the person to whom he had given the corn two hundred lashes. It was seen with great concern, that there were but few among them who were honest enough to resist any temptation that was placed in their way.

A person who had worked under one of the superintendents at Parramatta, and in whom some trust was sometimes placed due to consistent good behavior during his time in this country, was caught giving corn to a settler from the public granary, which he had occasional access to. The offense was clearly proven, and he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes, while the person who received the corn was sentenced to two hundred lashes. It was very concerning to see that there were very few among them who were honest enough to resist any temptation that came their way.

A convict who had absconded five weeks since was apprehended by some of the military at the head of one of the coves leading from Parramatta. He had built himself a hut in the woods, and said when brought in, that he had preserved his existence by eating such fish as he was fortunate enough to catch, rock oysters, and wild berries; and that the natives had more than once pursued him when employed in these researches. But very little credit was given to any account he gave, and it was generally supposed that he had lived by occasionally visiting and robbing the huts at Sydney and Parramatta. He had taken to the woods to avoid a punishment which hung over him, and which he now received.

A convict who had escaped five weeks ago was caught by some military personnel at the entrance of one of the inlets leading from Parramatta. He had built a hut in the woods and claimed, when brought in, that he had survived by eating the fish he managed to catch, rock oysters, and wild berries; he also said that the locals had chased him several times while he was gathering food. However, very little of his story was believed, and it was widely thought that he had survived by periodically visiting and stealing from the huts in Sydney and Parramatta. He had fled into the woods to avoid a punishment that was hanging over him, and now he faced that punishment.

Early in the month eight settlers from the marines received their grants of land situated on the north side of the harbour near the Flats, and named by the governor the Field of Mars.

Early in the month, eight settlers from the marines got their land grants located on the north side of the harbor near the Flats, which the governor named the Field of Mars.

The convicts employed in cultivating and clearing public ground beyond Parramatta, having been landed in a weak and sickly state, wore in general a most miserable and emaciated appearance, and numbers of them died daily. The reduced ration by no means contributed to their amendment; the wheat that was raised last year (four hundred and sixty-one bushels) after reserving a sufficiency for seed, was issued to them at a pound per man per week, and a pound of rice per week was issued to each male convict at Sydney.

The prisoners working to clear and farm public land beyond Parramatta, who arrived in a weak and unhealthy condition, generally looked incredibly miserable and thin, and many of them died every day. The diminished food supply definitely didn't help their recovery; the wheat harvested last year (four hundred and sixty-one bushels), after saving enough for seeds, was distributed to them at one pound per person each week, and each male prisoner in Sydney received one pound of rice per week.

On Tuesday the 14th the signal was made for a sail, and shortly after the Pitt, Captain Edward Manning, anchored in the cove from England. She sailed the 17th of last July from Yarmouth Roads, and had rather a long passage, touching at St. Iago, Rio de Janeiro, and the Cape of Good Hope. She had on board Francis Grose, esq the lieutenant-governor of the settlements, and major-commandant of the New South Wales corps, one company of which, together with the adjutant and surgeon's mate, came out with him.

On Tuesday the 14th, the signal was given for a sail, and soon after, the Pitt, Captain Edward Manning, anchored in the cove after arriving from England. She had set sail on July 17th of last year from Yarmouth Roads and had quite a long journey, stopping at St. Iago, Rio de Janeiro, and the Cape of Good Hope. On board was Francis Grose, Esq., the lieutenant-governor of the settlements and major-commandant of the New South Wales corps, along with one company, the adjutant, and the surgeon's mate, who all came with him.

She brought out three hundred and nineteen male and forty-nine female convicts, five children, and seven free women; with salt provisions calculated to serve that number of people ten months, but which would only furnish the colony with provisions for forty days. The supply of provisions was confined to salt meat, under an idea that the colony was not in immediate want of flour, and that a supply had been sent from Calcutta, which, together with what had been procured from Batavia, that which had been sent before from England, and the grain that might have been raised in the settlements, would be adequate to our consumption for the present. The dispatches, however, which had been forwarded from this place by the Justinian in July 1790 having been received by the secretary of state, what appeared from those communications to be necessary for the colony were to be sent in one or more ships to be dispatched in the autumn of last year, with an additional number of convicts, and the remaining company of the New South Wales corps. A sloop in frame, of the burden of forty-one tons, was sent out in the Pitt; to make room for which, several bales of clothing, and many very useful articles, were obliged to be shut out.

She brought out three hundred and nineteen male convicts, forty-nine female convicts, five children, and seven free women, along with salt provisions meant to last that many people for ten months, but which would actually only provide food for the colony for forty days. The food supply was limited to salt meat, based on the assumption that the colony didn’t urgently need flour and that a shipment had been sent from Calcutta. This, along with what was obtained from Batavia, previously sent from England, and the grain that could have been grown in the settlements, was thought to be enough for our current needs. However, dispatches sent from here by the Justinian in July 1790, which were received by the secretary of state, indicated that what was needed for the colony would be sent in one or more ships dispatched in the autumn of last year, along with an additional group of convicts and the remaining members of the New South Wales corps. A sloop, weighing forty-one tons, was sent out on the Pitt; to make space for it, several bales of clothing and many other useful items had to be left behind.

By this conveyance information was received, that the Daedalus hired storeship, which was sent out to carry provisions to the Sandwich islands for two ships employed in those parts on discovery, was directed to repair to this settlement after performing that service, to be employed as there should be occasion, and that she might be expected in the beginning of the year 1793.

By this message, we learned that the Daedalus, a chartered supply ship, was sent to deliver supplies to the Sandwich Islands for two ships working in that area for exploration. After completing that mission, it was instructed to come to this settlement to be used as needed, and it was expected to arrive in early 1793.

The Pitt brought in many of her convicts sick; and several of her seamen and fifteen soldiers of the New South Wales corps had died shortly after her leaving St. Iago, owing to her having touched there during an unhealthy season.

The Pitt brought many of her convicts in sick; and several of her sailors and fifteen soldiers from the New South Wales corps had died shortly after leaving St. Iago, because she had stopped there during an unhealthy season.

The whole of the New South Wales corps, except one company, being now arrived, the numbers requisite for the different duties were settled; and one company, consisting of a captain, two lieutenants, one ensign, three sergeants, three corporals, two drummers, and seventy privates, was fixed for the duty of Parramatta; a like number for Norfolk Island, and the remainder were to do duty at Sydney, the head quarters of the corps.

The entire New South Wales corps, except for one company, has now arrived, so the necessary numbers for the various duties were determined. One company, including a captain, two lieutenants, one ensign, three sergeants, three corporals, two drummers, and seventy privates, was assigned to Parramatta; a similar number for Norfolk Island, and the rest would perform duty in Sydney, the headquarters of the corps.

Permission having been obtained, a shop was opened at a hut on shore for the sale of various articles brought out in the Pitt; and notwithstanding a fleet of transports had but lately sailed hence, notwithstanding the different orders which had been sent to Bengal, and the high price at which every thing was sold, the avidity with which all descriptions of people grasped at what was to be purchased was extraordinary, and could only be accounted for by the distance of our situation from the mother country, the uncertainty of receiving supplies thence, and the length of time which we had heretofore the mortification to find elapse without our receiving any.

Having received permission, a shop was set up in a hut on the shore to sell various items brought over on the Pitt; and even though a fleet of transport ships had recently departed from here, despite the different orders that had been sent to Bengal, and the high prices at which everything was sold, the eagerness with which people of all kinds snatched up what was available for purchase was remarkable. This can only be explained by our distance from the mother country, the uncertainty of receiving supplies from there, and the frustrating length of time we had previously endured without receiving anything.

March.] It being necessary to send to Norfolk Island a proportion of what provisions were in store, the Pitt was engaged for that purpose; and for performing this service her owners were to receive £651, a sum equal to six weeks demurrage for that ship. From Norfolk Island she was to proceed, upon her owners account, to Bengal; and her commander was charged with duplicates of the letters and instructions given to Lieutenant Bowen. In the event of any accident having prevented the arrival of that officer at Calcutta, Captain Manning was to cause the service with which he was entrusted to be executed, by applying to the governor-general, and the house of Messrs. Lambert, Ross, and company, for the supply of provisions, which the Atlantic was to have brought, to be forwarded to this country either by the Pitt, or by vessels to be hired by that house at Calcutta.

March.] It was necessary to send a portion of the provisions in storage to Norfolk Island, so the Pitt was hired for that purpose. Her owners would receive £651 for this service, which was equivalent to six weeks of demurrage for the ship. After leaving Norfolk Island, she would head to Bengal on her owners' account; her captain was given duplicates of the letters and instructions for Lieutenant Bowen. If any incident prevented that officer from arriving in Calcutta, Captain Manning was to ensure the tasks he was assigned were completed by reaching out to the governor-general and the firm of Messrs. Lambert, Ross, and Company to request the supply of provisions that the Atlantic was supposed to bring, which should then be sent to this country either by the Pitt or by ships hired by that firm in Calcutta.

This precaution was taken rather to guard against the worst that might happen, than from any probability that the Atlantic would not have reached Calcutta, that ship being well fitted for such a voyage, strong, well manned, and under the direction of an able and an active officer. To her arrival, however, we looked forward at this period with some anxiety, as the flour and salt provisions in the settlement already occupied but a small portion of the stores which contained them, there being only fifty-two days flour, and twenty-one weeks salt meat in store at the ration now issued.

This precaution was taken more to protect against the worst-case scenario than because we believed the Atlantic wouldn’t reach Calcutta, since that ship was well-equipped for the journey, sturdy, well-staffed, and under the command of a capable and proactive officer. However, we were anxiously anticipating her arrival during this time, as the flour and salt provisions in the settlement already made up only a small part of the supplies, with just fifty-two days’ worth of flour and twenty-one weeks’ worth of salt meat available based on the current rations being issued.

On the morning of Saturday the 17th the marines and New South Wales corps formed under arms on the parade in front of the quarters, when his Majesty's commission appointing Francis Grose, Esquire, to be lieutenant-governor of this territory, and the letters patent under the great seal for establishing the civil and criminal courts of judicature, were publicly read by the judge-advocate. The governor and the principal officers of the settlement attended, and his excellency received from the corps under arms the honours due to his rank in the colony. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Pitt, by a well-concerted signal, saluted with fifteen guns, as a compliment to the lieutenant-governor.

On the morning of Saturday the 17th, the marines and New South Wales corps assembled in front of the quarters for a ceremony. His Majesty's commission appointing Francis Grose, Esquire, as lieutenant-governor of this territory, along with the letters patent establishing the civil and criminal courts, were publicly read by the judge-advocate. The governor and key officials of the settlement were present, and his excellency received the honors due to his rank in the colony from the troops assembled. At the end of the ceremony, the Pitt, signaling appropriately, fired fifteen guns in salute to the lieutenant-governor.

A person who came out to this country in the capacity of a carpenter's mate on board the Sirius, and who had been discharged from that ship's books into the Supply, having been left behind when that vessel sailed for England, offered his services to put together the vessel that arrived in frame in the Pitt; and being deemed sufficiently qualified as a shipwright, he was engaged at two shillings per diem and his provisions to set her up. Her keel was accordingly laid down on blocks placed for the purpose near the landing-place on the east side. As this person was the only shipwright in the colony, the vessel would much sooner have rendered the services which were required of her, had she been put together, coppered, and sent out manned and officered from England; by these means too the colony would have received many articles which were of necessity shut out of the Pitt to make room for her stowage.

A person who arrived in this country as a carpenter's assistant on the Sirius, and who had been taken off that ship's records and onto the Supply, after being left when that ship sailed for England, offered to help assemble the vessel that arrived in pieces on the Pitt. Since he was considered qualified as a shipwright, he was hired for two shillings per diem along with his food to put her together. Her keel was then laid down on blocks set up for that purpose near the landing area on the east side. Since this person was the only shipwright in the colony, the vessel could have provided the needed services much sooner if she had been assembled, coppered, and sent out manned and with officers from England; this way, the colony would also have received many items that had to be left out of the Pitt to make room for her cargo.

About this time a malady of an alarming nature was perceived in the colony. Four or five of the convicts were seized with insanity; and, as the major part of those who were visited by this calamity were females, who on account of their sex were not harassed with hard labour, and who in general shared largely of such little comforts as were to be procured in the settlement, it was difficult to assign a cause for this disorder.

About this time, a troubling sickness was noticed in the colony. Four or five of the convicts went insane, and since most of those affected were women—who, due to their gender, weren't subjected to hard labor and generally received a larger share of the limited comforts available in the settlement—it was hard to determine the cause of this condition.

April.] With a dreadful sick list, and with death making rapid strides among us, the month of April commenced: a lamentable circumstance to those who had to provide by their labour for the support of a colony, in which, from its great distance, not only from the parent country, but from every port where supplies could be procured, it became an object of the first magnitude and importance to endeavour speedily, and by every possible exertion, to place its inhabitants in a situation that accident or delay might not affect. His Majesty's ship Guardian afforded a melancholy recollection how much this colony had already felt from misadventure, and the delay which occurred in the voyage of the Lady Juliana transport had proved equally calamitous. The recent circumstance of a ship arriving without a supply of flour, and other contingencies, spoke with a warning voice, and loudly demanded that every arm which could be raised should be exerted to make provision against the hour of want. Few, however, in comparison with the measure of our necessities, were the numbers daily brought into the field for the purpose of cultivation; and of those who could handle the hoe or the spade by far the greater part carried hunger in their countenances; but it was earnestly hoped and anxiously expected, that by the speedy arrival of supplies from England the full ration of every species of provisions would be again issued, when labour would be renewed with additional vigour and effect; health and strength be seen residing among us; and the approaches of independence on Great Britain be something more than a sanguine hope or visionary speculation.

April.] With a terrible list of the sick and death spreading quickly among us, the month of April began. This was a sad situation for those who had to work to support a colony that was so far away, not only from the mother country but from any port where supplies could be obtained. It was crucial to make every effort to put its inhabitants in a position where accidents or delays would not impact them. His Majesty's ship Guardian served as a grim reminder of how much this colony had already suffered from misadventures, and the delays in the voyage of the Lady Juliana transport had been just as disastrous. The recent incident of a ship arriving without flour and other supplies warned us and urgently demanded that everyone who could help needed to work hard to prepare for times of need. However, the number of people available for cultivation was small compared to our needs, and most of those who could wield a hoe or spade showed hunger on their faces. But we sincerely hoped and anxiously anticipated that the quick arrival of supplies from England would allow for the full rations of all kinds of provisions to be distributed again. This would lead to renewed labor with more energy and effectiveness, health and strength would return, and our hopes of being independent from Great Britain would become more than just unrealistic dreams.

The convicts, and such stores and provisions as the governor thought it necessary to send to Norfolk Island, being embarked, the Pitt sailed on the 7th. Previous to her departure, a female convict was found secreted on board, who declaring in her justification that the fourth mate of the ship had assisted her in her escape, he was tried by the civil court of judicature for taking a convict from the settlement, but, for want of sufficient proof, was acquitted.

The convicts, along with the supplies and provisions that the governor deemed necessary to send to Norfolk Island, were loaded onto the Pitt, which set sail on the 7th. Before it left, a female convict was discovered hiding on board. She claimed that the fourth mate of the ship had helped her escape, so he was put on trial by the civil court for assisting a convict in leaving the settlement. However, due to a lack of sufficient evidence, he was found not guilty.

The practicability of being secreted on board of ships would always operate as an inducement to wretches who saw a long term of servitude before them to attempt their escape; but it certainly behoved every master of a merchantman bound from this port to be very vigilant and sedulous to prevent their succeeding, as the safety of the ship might be very much endangered by having numbers of such people on board mixing with their ship's company.

The ability to hide on ships would always encourage desperate individuals facing a long period of servitude to try to escape. However, it was essential for every captain of a merchant ship leaving this port to be very alert and diligent in preventing such attempts, as the safety of the ship could be seriously threatened by having many of these people on board mingling with the crew.

On Friday the 13th died Mr. David Burton, of a gunshot wound which he received on the preceding Saturday. This young man, on account of the talents he possessed as a botanist, and the services which he was capable of rendering in the surveying line, could be but ill spared in this settlement. His loss was occasioned by one of those accidents which too frequently happen to persons who are inexperienced in the use of fire-arms. Mr. Burton had been out with Ensign Beckwith, and some soldiers of the New South Wales corps, intending to kill ducks on the Nepean. With that sensation of the mind which is called presentiment he is said to have set out, having more than once observed, that he feared some accident would happen before his return; and he did not cease to be tormented with this unpleasant idea, until his gun, which he carried rather awkwardly, went off, and lodged its contents in the ground within a few inches of the feet of the person who immediately preceded him in the walk through the woods. Considering this as the accident which his mind foreboded, he went on afterwards perfectly freed from any apprehension. But he was deceived. Reaching the banks of the river, they found on its surface innumerable flocks of those fowl of which they were in search. Mr. Burton, in order to have a better view of them, got upon the stump of a tree, and, resting his hand upon the muzzle of his piece, raised himself by its assistance as high as he was able. The butt of the piece rested on the ground, which was thickly covered with long grass, shrubs, and weeds. No one saw the danger of such a situation in time to prevent what followed. By some motion of this unfortunate young man the piece went off, and the contents, entering at his wrist, forced their way up between the two bones of his right arm, which were much shattered, to the elbow. Mr. Beckwith, by a very happy presence of mind, applying bandages torn from a shirt, succeeded in stopping the vast effusion of blood which ensued, or his patient must soon have bled to death. This accident happened at five in the afternoon, and it was not till ten o'clock at night of the following day that Mr. Burton was brought into Parramatta. The consequence was, such a violent fever and inflammation had taken place that any attempt to save life by amputation would only have hastened his end. In the night of the 12th the mortification came on, and he died the following morning, leaving behind him, what he universally enjoyed while living, the esteem and respect of all who knew him.

On Friday the 13th, Mr. David Burton passed away from a gunshot wound he received the previous Saturday. This young man was invaluable to the settlement due to his skills as a botanist and his contributions in surveying. His loss was the result of one of those unfortunate accidents that often happen to those who are not experienced with firearms. Mr. Burton had gone out with Ensign Beckwith and some soldiers from the New South Wales corps, intending to hunt ducks on the Nepean. He reportedly set out with a feeling of dread, having expressed multiple times that he feared something would go wrong before he came back. This unpleasant thought nagged at him until his gun, which he was carrying somewhat awkwardly, fired unexpectedly, shooting the ground just inches from the feet of the person walking ahead of him. Thinking this was the accident he had foreseen, he continued on, feeling relieved of any worries. However, he was mistaken. When they reached the riverbank, they saw countless ducks on the water. To get a better look, Mr. Burton climbed onto a tree stump, resting his hand on the muzzle of his gun as he pulled himself up as high as he could. The butt of the gun was on the ground, which was thick with long grass, shrubs, and weeds. No one noticed the danger in time to prevent what happened next. Due to some movement from this unfortunate young man, the gun discharged, and the shot entered through his wrist, shattering the two bones in his right arm up to the elbow. Mr. Beckwith, showing remarkable quick thinking, applied makeshift bandages torn from a shirt and managed to stop the significant blood loss, or Mr. Burton would have bled to death. This incident occurred at five in the afternoon, and Mr. Burton was not brought into Parramatta until ten o'clock the following night. Unfortunately, by that time, he had developed a severe fever and inflammation, rendering any attempt at amputation futile and likely to hasten his death. During the night of the 12th, he began to suffer from mortification, and he died the next morning, leaving behind the esteem and respect of all who knew him, which he had enjoyed throughout his life.

A person of a far different character and description met with an accidental death the following day. He had been employed to take some provisions to a settler who occupied a farm on the creek leading to Parramatta, and was killed by a blow from the limb of a tree, which fell on his head and fractured his skull, without having allowed him that time for repentance of which a sinful life stood so much in need. His companions and fellow prisoners (for he was a convict) declared him to have been so great a reprobate, that he was scarcely ever known to speak without an oath, or without calling on his Maker as a witness to the truth of the lie he was about to utter.

A person with a completely different character and background met with an accidental death the next day. He had been hired to deliver some supplies to a settler who lived on a farm by the creek leading to Parramatta, and was killed by a falling tree branch that struck his head and fractured his skull, without giving him a moment for repentance that a sinful life desperately needed. His companions and fellow prisoners (since he was a convict) claimed he was such a notorious sinner that he hardly ever spoke without swearing or without calling on his Maker as a witness to the lie he was about to tell.

The weather had been for some days extremely bad, heavy storms of wind and rain having generally prevailed from Monday the 9th till Friday the 13th, when fair weather succeeded. At Parramatta the gale had done much damage; several huts which were built in low grounds were rendered almost inaccessible, and the greater part of the wattled huts suffered considerably. A large portion of the cleared ground was laid under water, and such corn as had not been reaped was beaten down. At Sydney the effects of the storm, though it had been equally violent, were not so severe. Most of the houses were rendered damp, and had leaks in different parts; seeds which had been recently sown were washed out of the ground, and the bridge over the stream was somewhat injured. In the woods it had raged with much violence; the people employed to kill game reported that it was dangerous to walk in the forests; and the ground, covered with huge limbs or whole trunks of trees, confirmed the truth of their report.

The weather had been really bad for several days, with heavy storms of wind and rain mostly lasting from Monday the 9th until Friday the 13th, when clear skies finally arrived. In Parramatta, the storm caused a lot of damage; several huts built in low areas were nearly inaccessible, and most of the wattled huts suffered a lot. A large part of the cleared land was flooded, and any corn that hadn’t been harvested was knocked down. In Sydney, the storm was just as intense, but the damage wasn't as severe. Most houses were damp and had leaks in various places; seeds that had just been planted were washed away, and the bridge over the stream was somewhat damaged. In the woods, the storm raged fiercely; those sent to hunt game reported that it was dangerous to walk in the forests, and the ground, littered with large branches and entire tree trunks, confirmed their claims.

The bricklayers were immediately sent up to Parramatta, to repair the damages effected by the storm; and the bridge at Sydney was not only repaired, but considerably widened.

The bricklayers were quickly sent to Parramatta to fix the damage caused by the storm, and the bridge in Sydney was not only repaired but also significantly widened.

On Saturday the 13th an alteration took place in the ration. Three pounds of flour, and two pounds of maize, with four pounds of pork, were served to each man, and three pounds of flour, and one pound of maize, with four pounds of pork, were served to each woman in the settlement.The children received the usual proportion. To such alterations the settlement had now for some years been habituated; and although it was well known that they never were imposed but when the state of the stores rendered them absolutely necessary, it was impossible to meet the deduction without reflecting, that the established ration would have been adequate to every want; the plea of hunger could not have been advanced as the motive and excuse for thefts; and disease would not have met so powerful an ally in its ravages among the debilitated and emaciated objects which the gaols had crowded into transports, and the transports had landed in these settlements.

On Saturday the 13th, there was a change in the food ration. Each man in the settlement received three pounds of flour, two pounds of maize, and four pounds of pork, while each woman got three pounds of flour, one pound of maize, and four pounds of pork. The children received their usual share. The settlement had become accustomed to such changes over the years; and even though it was well understood that these adjustments were only made when the state of the supplies made them absolutely necessary, it was hard not to reflect that the original ration would have been sufficient for all needs. The excuse of hunger could not have been used as a reason for theft, and disease would not have found such a strong ally in its impact on the weakened and emaciated individuals that the jails had packed into transports, which had then brought them to these settlements.

The works in hand were, building brick huts at Sydney for convicts, consisting of two apartments, each hut being twenty-six feet in front, and fourteen feet in width, and intended to contain ten people, with a suitable allotment of garden ground; completing tanks for water; widening the bridge, etc. One day in each week was dedicated to issuing provisions, and the labour of the other five (with interruptions from bad weather, and the plea of the reduced ration) did not amount in all to three good working days.

The projects involved building brick huts in Sydney for convicts, which had two rooms each, measuring twenty-six feet long and fourteen feet wide, designed to house ten people along with a designated garden area; finishing water tanks; widening the bridge, etc. One day each week was set aside for distributing supplies, and the work done on the other five days (with interruptions due to bad weather and claims of reduced food rations) totaled less than three full working days.

At Parramatta the principal labour was the getting in and housing the maize, and preparing ground for the next year's grain. The foundations of two material buildings were laid, a town-hall and an hospital. The town-hall was intended to include a market-place for the sale of grain, fish, poultry, live stock, wearing apparel, and every other article that convicts might purchase or sell. An order establishing this regulation had been given out at Parramatta, and a clerk of the market appointed to register every commodity that was brought for sale or barter; directing, in the case of non-compliance, the forfeiture both of the purchase-money and of the article, to be given, one moiety to the informer, and the other to the hospital for the benefit of the sick.

At Parramatta, the main tasks were harvesting and storing the corn, and preparing the land for the next year's crops. The foundations for two significant buildings were established: a town hall and a hospital. The town hall was meant to include a marketplace for selling grain, fish, poultry, livestock, clothing, and any other items that convicts might need to buy or sell. A rule to set up this system had been issued at Parramatta, and a market clerk was appointed to keep track of every item brought for sale or trade. If anyone didn’t follow the rules, both the money paid and the item would be confiscated, with half going to the informant and the other half to the hospital to help the sick.

This order was meant to prevent the selling or interchanging of stolen goods among the convicts; a measure that appeared to be daily becoming more necessary. The depredations which were committed, hourly it might be said, upon the maize, were very serious, and called for the interposition of some measure that might prevent them, as punishments, however severe, were not found effectually to answer the end. A convict who lived as a servant with an officer was tried by the criminal court for robbing his master, and being found guilty was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes.

This order was intended to stop the sale or exchange of stolen goods among the convicts; a measure that seemed increasingly necessary. The thefts that were happening virtually every hour on the maize were very serious and required some action to prevent them, as punishments, no matter how harsh, weren't effectively achieving the goal. A convict who worked as a servant for an officer was tried by the criminal court for stealing from his master, and after being found guilty, he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes.

The colony had now been so long established, that many convicts who had come out in the first fleet, and might be termed the first settlers in the country, had served the several terms of transportation to which they had been sentenced. Of the people of this description, some had become settlers; some had left the country; others, to use their own expressions, had taken themselves off the stores, that is to say, had declined receiving any farther provisions from the public stores or doing any public labour, but derived their support from such settlers or other persons as could employ and maintain them; while others, with somewhat more discretion, continued to labour for government, and to receive their provisions as usual from the commissary. Of the latter description, fourteen who were indulged with the choice of the place where they were to labour, preferred the settlement at Sydney, and there had one hut assigned to them for their residence. To prevent any imposition on the part of those who professed to be supported by settlers, they were directed to render an account at the end of each week of their respective employments; for people who had not any visible means of living would soon have become nuisances in the settlement.

The colony had been established for so long that many convicts who came over on the first fleet, and could be called the first settlers in the country, had completed their sentences. Among these people, some had become settlers; some had left the country; others, as they put it, had stopped taking provisions from the public stores, meaning they had opted out of receiving any more food from the government or doing public work, instead relying on settlers or others who could support them. Meanwhile, others, showing a bit more sense, continued to work for the government and kept getting their provisions as usual from the commissary. Of this latter group, fourteen who were given a choice of where to work chose the settlement in Sydney, where they were assigned one hut to live in. To avoid any fraud from those claiming to be supported by settlers, they were instructed to report weekly on their activities; otherwise, people without any visible means of support would quickly become a burden in the settlement.

It required something more than common application to adapt remedies to the various irregularities which from time to time grew up in the settlement, and something more than common ingenuity to counteract the artifices of those whose meditations were hourly directed to schemes of evasion or depredation.

It took more than just regular effort to adjust solutions to the different problems that popped up in the settlement, and it required more than average cleverness to outsmart those whose thoughts were constantly aimed at loopholes or theft.

The natives had not lately given us any interruption by acts of hostility. Several of their young people continued to reside among us, and the different houses in the town were frequently visited by their relations. Very little information that could be depended upon respecting their manners and customs was obtained through this intercourse; and it was observed, that they conversed with us in a mutilated and incorrect language formed entirely on our imperfect knowledge and improper application of their words.

The locals hadn't caused us any trouble lately. Many of their young people still lived with us, and their relatives often visited different houses in the town. We gained very little reliable information about their traditions and customs through these interactions, and it was noted that they communicated with us in a broken and inaccurate version of a language that was entirely based on our limited understanding and misuse of their words.

CHAPTER XVII

Mortality in April
Condition and situation of the convicts
Ration cut again
Amount of flour in store
Settlers
Status of dealings with the natives
Corn stolen
Public projects
Average prices of grain, etc. in Sydney and Parramatta
Mortality declines
King's birthday
The Atlantic returns from Bengal
Update on Bryant and his companions
Ration further reduced
Atlantic cleared
Sheep pens attempted at Parramatta
Quality of supplies received from Calcutta
The Brittania arrives from England
Ration increased
One convict freed
Public projects

May.] The mortality in the last month had been extremely great. Distressing as it was, however, to see the poor wretches daily dropping into the grave, it was far more afflicting to observe the countenances and emaciated persons of many that remained soon to follow their miserable companions. Every step was taken that could be devised to save them; a fishery was established at the South Head, exclusively for the use of the sick, under the direction of one Barton, who had been formerly a pilot, and who, in addition to this duty, was to board all ships coming into the harbour and pilot them to the settlement. The different people who were employed by individuals to kill game were given up for the use of the hospital; and to stimulate them to exertion, two pounds of flour in addition to the ration were ordered for every kangaroo that they should bring, beside the head, one forequarter, and the pluck of the animal.

May.] The death rate in the past month had been shockingly high. While it was heartbreaking to see the unfortunate souls slipping into the grave each day, it was even more painful to witness the faces and gaunt bodies of those who were soon to follow their unfortunate friends. Every possible action was taken to try to save them; a fishing operation was set up at the South Head solely for the sick, overseen by a guy named Barton, who used to be a pilot. Besides this responsibility, he was also tasked with boarding all ships entering the harbor and guiding them to the settlement. The various people hired by individuals to hunt game were redirected to the hospital’s use; to encourage them, they were offered an extra two pounds of flour along with their rations for every kangaroo they brought in, plus the head, one forequarter, and the innards of the animal.

The weakest of the convicts were excused from any kind of hard labour; but it was not hard labour that destroyed them; it was an entire want of strength in the constitution to receive nourishment, to throw off the debility that pervaded their whole system, or to perform any sort of labour whatever.

The weakest of the inmates were excused from any hard labor; but it wasn't hard labor that broke them; it was a complete lack of strength in their bodies to absorb nourishment, to shake off the weakness that filled their entire system, or to do any kind of work at all.

This dreadful mortality was chiefly confined to the convicts who had arrived in the last year; of one hundred and twenty-two male convicts who came out in the Queen transport from Ireland, fifty only were living at the beginning of this month. The different robberies which were committed were also confined to this class of the convicts, and the wretches who were concerned in the commission of them were in general too weak to receive a punishment adequate to their crimes. Their universal plea was hunger; but it was a plea that in the then situation of the colony could not be so much attended to as it certainly would have been in a country of greater plenty.

This terrible mortality primarily affected the convicts who had arrived the previous year; out of one hundred twenty-two male convicts who came on the Queen transport from Ireland, only fifty were alive at the start of this month. The various robberies that occurred were also limited to this group of convicts, and those involved were generally too weak to face a punishment that matched their crimes. Their common excuse was hunger, but in the current state of the colony, that excuse couldn't be given the attention it would have received in a more prosperous country.

The quantity of Indian corn stolen and destroyed this season was not ascertained, but was supposed to have been at least one sixth of what was raised. The people employed in bringing it in daily reported that they found immense piles of the husks and stalks concealed in the midst of what was standing, having been there shelled and taken off at different times. This was a very serious loss, and became an object of immediate consideration in such a scarcity as the colony then experienced; most anxiously it expected supplies from England, which did not arrive, though the time had elapsed in which they should have appeared had their departure taken place at the period mentioned by the secretary of state (the autumn of last year). His excellency therefore thought it prudent still farther to abridge the ration of flour which was then issued; and on the 9th of the month directed the commissary to serve weekly, until further orders, one pound and an half of flour with four pounds of maize to each man; and one pound and an half of flour with three pounds of maize to each woman, and to every child ten years of age; but made no alteration in the ration of salt provisions.

The amount of corn stolen and destroyed this season wasn't determined, but it was estimated to be at least one-sixth of what was produced. Those who were tasked with gathering it reported finding huge piles of husks and stalks hidden among the standing crops, which had been taken at various times. This was a significant loss and quickly became a major concern given the scarcity the colony was facing; there was a desperate hope for supplies from England, which did not arrive, even though the time had passed when they should have come, based on the information from the secretary of state (last autumn). Consequently, the governor decided it was wise to reduce the flour rations further. On the 9th of the month, he instructed the commissary to provide, until further notice, one and a half pounds of flour and four pounds of corn for each man, and one and a half pounds of flour and three pounds of corn for each woman and every child aged ten and under; however, there was no change in the salt provisions.

This ration was to take place on Saturday the 12th; and as maize or Indian corn was now necessarily become the principal part of each person's subsistence, hand-mills and querns were set to work to grind it coarse for every person both at Sydney and at Parramatta; and at this latter place, wooden mortars, with a lever and a pestle, were also used to break the corn, and these pounded it much finer than it could be ground by the hand-mills; but it was effected with great labour.

This ration was scheduled for Saturday the 12th. Since maize or corn had now become the main part of everyone's diet, hand-mills and querns were put to use to grind it coarsely for each person in both Sydney and Parramatta. In Parramatta, they also used wooden mortars with a lever and pestle to break the corn, which resulted in a much finer texture than what the hand-mills could achieve, but it required a lot of effort.

On comparing this ration with that issued in the month of April 1790, it will appear that the allowance then received from the public store was in most respects better than that now ordered. We then received, in addition to two pounds and a half of flour, two pounds of rice, which taken together yielded more nutritive substance than the four pounds of maize and one pound and a half of flour; for the maize when perfectly ground, sifted, and divested of the unwholesome and unprofitable part, the husk, would not give more than three pounds of good meal; and the rice was used by the convicts in a much greater variety of modes than it was possible to prepare the maize in.

On comparing this ration with what was given out in April 1790, it seems that the allowance we received from the public store back then was, in many ways, better than what we have now. At that time, we got two and a half pounds of flour along with two pounds of rice, which together provided more nutritional value than the four pounds of corn and one and a half pounds of flour we have now. When the corn is fully ground, sifted, and stripped of the unhealthy husk, it would yield no more than three pounds of usable meal. Additionally, the convicts were able to prepare the rice in many more ways than it was possible to use the corn.

As at this period the flour in store was reduced to a very inconsiderable quantity, twenty-four days at the new ration (one pound and a half per week), and the salt provisions at the present ration not affording a supply for a longer time than three months, it became a melancholy, although natural reflection, that had not such numbers died, both in the passage and since the landing of those who survived the voyage, we should not at this moment have had any thing to receive from the public stores; thus strangely did we derive a benefit from the miseries of our fellow creatures!

At this time, the flour we had left was down to a very small amount, enough for twenty-four days at the new ration (one and a half pounds per week), and the salt provisions at the current ration would only last us about three months. It was a sad but natural thought that if so many had not died, both during the journey and after landing, those of us who survived wouldn’t have anything to get from the public stores. It was strange how we ended up benefiting from the suffering of others!

Several of the settlers who had farms at or near Parramatta, notwithstanding the extreme drought of the season preceding the saving of their corn, had such crops that they found themselves enabled to take off from the public store, some one, and others two convicts, to assist in preparing their grounds for the next season. The salt provisions with which they supplied them they procured by bartering their corn for that article, reserving a sufficiency for the support of themselves and families, and for seed. Mr. Schaffer from a small patch of ground got in about two hundred bushels of Indian corn; and with the assistance of four convicts expected to have thirty acres in cultivation the next season. But others of the settlers, inattentive to their own interests, and more desirous of acquiring for the present what they deemed comforts, than studious to provide for the future, not only neglected the cultivation of their lands, but sold the breeding stock with which they had been supplied by order of the governor. Two settlers of the former description having clearly forfeited their grants, and it being understood that they did not intend to proceed to cultivation any further than to save appearances till they could get away, their grants were taken from them, and other settlers placed on the grounds. But exclusive of the idle people, of which there were but few, the settlers were found in general to be doing very well, their farms promising to place them shortly in a state of independence on the public stores in the articles of provisions and grain; and it must not be omitted in this account, that they had to combat with the bad effects of a short and reduced ration nearly the whole of the time that they had been employed in cultivating ground on their own account.

Several settlers with farms at or near Parramatta, despite the harsh drought of the previous season that nearly ruined their crops, managed to grow enough to take one or two convicts from the public store to help prepare their land for the next season. They traded their corn for salt provisions, keeping enough for themselves and their families, as well as for seeds. Mr. Schaffer harvested about two hundred bushels of Indian corn from a small plot and expected to cultivate thirty acres next season with the help of four convicts. However, other settlers, neglecting their own interests and more focused on immediate comforts than future needs, not only ignored cultivating their land but also sold off their breeding stock given to them by the governor. Two of these settlers lost their grants after it became clear they were only interested in maintaining appearances until they could leave. Their land was reassigned to other settlers. But aside from the few idle people, most settlers were generally doing quite well, with their farms likely to make them independent of public food supplies soon. It's important to note that they had to deal with the negative effects of a short and reduced ration for almost the entire time they were working their own land.

Many complaints having been made by the settlers, of depredations committed on their Indian corn by some of the convicts, it was ordered, that every convict residing at Parramatta, who should be fully convicted before a magistrate of stealing Indian corn, should, in addition to such corporal punishment as he might think it necessary to adjudge, be sent from Parramatta to the New Grounds, there to be employed in cultivation. Mr. Richard Atkins, who came out in the Pitt, and who had been sworn a Justice of the peace, went up to Parramatta to reside there, the constant presence of a magistrate being deemed by the governor indispensable at that settlement.

Many complaints were made by the settlers about damage done to their corn by some of the convicts. It was decided that any convict living in Parramatta who was found guilty by a magistrate of stealing corn would, in addition to any physical punishment deemed appropriate, be sent from Parramatta to the New Grounds to work in agriculture. Mr. Richard Atkins, who arrived on the Pitt and had been appointed a Justice of the Peace, went to live in Parramatta, as the governor believed that having a magistrate present at that settlement was essential.

It was soon perceived, that the punishment of being sent from Parramatta was more dreaded by the convicts than any corporal correction, however severe, that could have been inflicted on them. The being deprived of a comfortable hut and garden, and quitting a place whence the communication with Sydney was frequent, particularly when shipping were in the cove, operated so powerfully with one offender, who was ordered out to the New Grounds, that he chose rather to make an attempt to destroy himself than be sent thither; and had very nearly effected his purpose, having made an incision in his neck of such depth as to lay bare the carotid artery.

It was soon clear that the punishment of being sent away from Parramatta was feared by the convicts more than any physical punishment, no matter how harsh. Being stripped of a comfortable hut and garden, and leaving a place where they could frequently communicate with Sydney—especially when ships were in the cove—affected one offender so intensely, who was ordered out to the New Grounds, that he preferred to try to take his own life rather than go there; and he nearly succeeded, having made a deep cut in his neck that exposed the carotid artery.

In addition to the depredations of our own people, the natives had for some time been suspected of stealing the corn at the settlements beyond Parramatta. On the 18th a party of the tribe inhabiting the woods, to the number of fifteen or sixteen, was observed coming out of a hut at the middle settlement, dressed in such clothing as they found there, and taking with them a quantity of corn in nets. The person who saw them imagined at first from their appearance that they were convicts; but perceiving one of them preparing to throw a spear at him, he levelled his piece, which was loaded with small shot, and fired at him. The native instantly dropped his spear, and the whole party ran away, leaving behind them the nets with the corn, some blankets, and one or two spears. It was supposed that the native was wounded; for in a few days information was received from Parramatta, that a convict who was employed in well-digging at Prospect Hill, having come in from thence to receive some slops which were issued, was on his return met midway and murdered, or rather butchered by some of the natives. When the body was found, it was not quite cold, and had at least thirty spear wounds in it. The head was cut in several places, and most of the teeth were knocked out. They had taken his clothing and provisions, and the provisions of another man which he was carrying out to him. The natives with whom we had intercourse said, that this murder was committed by some of the people who inhabited the woods, and was done probably in revenge for the shot that was fired at the natives who some time before were stripping the hut.

In addition to the damage caused by our own people, the locals had been suspected for a while of stealing corn from the settlements beyond Parramatta. On the 18th, a group from the tribe living in the woods, numbering about fifteen or sixteen, was seen coming out of a hut at the middle settlement, wearing clothes they had found there and taking away corn in nets. The person who spotted them initially thought they were convicts based on their appearance, but when he saw one of them getting ready to throw a spear at him, he aimed his gun, which was loaded with small shot, and fired. The native immediately dropped his spear, and the whole group ran off, leaving behind the nets with the corn, a few blankets, and one or two spears. It was believed that the native had been injured; within a few days, news came from Parramatta that a convict working on a well at Prospect Hill had been attacked and killed—better described as butchered—by some of the natives on his way back from getting supplies. When the body was found, it was still warm and had at least thirty spear wounds. The head had several cuts, and most of the teeth were missing. They had taken his clothes and his supplies, as well as the provisions meant for another man he was bringing. The natives we interacted with said this murder was carried out by some of the people living in the woods, probably as revenge for the shot fired at the natives who had been robbing the hut some time earlier.

Toward the end of the month the corn was all got in and housed at Parramatta. As the grounds were cleared of the stalks, the depredations which had been committed became visible; and several of the convicts were detected by the night-watch in bringing in large quantities of shelled corn which had been stolen, buried or concealed in the woods, and shelled as they could find opportunity. Seven bushels were recovered in one night by the vigilance of the watch; and as different quantities were found from time to time in the huts, the people who resided in them were all ordered to the New Grounds.

Toward the end of the month, all the corn was harvested and stored in Parramatta. As the fields were cleared of the stalks, the damage from the thefts became apparent; several convicts were caught by the night watch bringing in large amounts of stolen corn that had been buried or hidden in the woods, and they shelled it whenever they had the chance. The watch recovered seven bushels in one night due to their vigilance; and since different amounts were found from time to time in the huts, everyone living there was ordered to move to the New Grounds.

The works during this month, both at Sydney and at Parramatta, went on but slowly. At Sydney a tank that would contain about seven thousand nine hundred and ninety-six gallons of water, with a well in the centre fifteen feet deep, was finished, and the water let into it. Brick huts were in hand for the convicts in room of the miserable hovels occupied by many, which had been put up at their first landing, and in room of others which, from having been erected on such ground as was then cleared, were now found to interfere with the direction of the streets which the governor was laying out. People were also employed in cutting paling for fencing in their gardens. At Parramatta and the New Grounds, during the greatest part of the month, the people were employed in getting in the maize and sowing wheat. A foundation for an hospital was laid, a house built for the master carpenter, and roofs prepared for the different huts either building, or to be built in future.

The work this month, both in Sydney and Parramatta, progressed but slowly. In Sydney, a tank capable of holding about seven thousand nine hundred and ninety-six gallons of water, with a well in the center that's fifteen feet deep, was completed, and water was let into it. Brick huts were being constructed for the convicts to replace the miserable shacks they had occupied since their arrival, as well as others that were built on cleared land and now disrupted the street layout the governor was establishing. People were also busy cutting fence posts for their gardens. In Parramatta and the New Grounds, most of the month was spent harvesting maize and planting wheat. A foundation for a hospital was laid, a house was built for the master carpenter, and roofs were prepared for the various huts either being built or planned for the future.

The following were the prices of grain and other articles, as they were sold during this month at Sydney, and at the market-place at Parramatta.

The following were the prices of grain and other items as they were sold this month in Sydney and at the market in Parramatta.

AT SYDNEY

Flour from 6d to 1s per lb.
Maize per bushel from 12s 6d to 15s.
Laying hens from 7s to 10s each.
Cocks for killing from 4s to 7s each.
Half grown chickens from 2s 6d to 3s 6d each.
Chickens six weeks old 1s each.
Eggs 3s per dozen, or 3d a-piece.
Fresh pork 1s per lb.
Potatoes 3d per lb.
Good white heart cabbages 1d each.
Greens per dozen 6d.
Turnips 6d per dozen.
Sows in pig from £4 10s to £6 6s.
Sows just taken the boar from £3 to £4 4s.
Growing pigs from £1 to £2 10s each.
Sucking pigs 10s each.
Moist sugar from 1s 6d to 2s 6d per lb.
Coffee 2s to 2s 6d per lb.
Salt pork per lb. from 8d to 9d.
Tobacco, Brazil, per lb. from 3s to 5s.

AT PARRAMATTA

Flour 1s per lb.
Maize per bushel from 11s to 13s.
Laying hens from 7s 6d to 10s each.
Cocks for killing from 4s 6d to 5s each.
Chickens two months old 3s each.
Eggs per dozen 3s.
Fresh pork per lb. from 1s 1d to 1s 3d.
Salt pork per lb. from 10d to 1s.
Potatoes per lb. from 3d to 4d.
A lot of cabbages, per hundred 10s.
Tea per lb. from 16s to £1 1s.
Coffee per lb. from 2s to 3s.
Moist sugar from 2s to 2s 6d per lb.
Tobacco grown in the country from 1s 6d to 2s per lb.
Virginia or Brazil from 4s to 6s.
Soap from 1s 6d to 2s 6d per lb.
Cheese from 1s 6d to 2s per lb.

AT SYDNEY

Flour from 6d to 1s per lb.  
Maize per bushel from 12s 6d to 15s.  
Laying hens from 7s to 10s each.  
Cocks for killing from 4s to 7s each.  
Half-grown chickens from 2s 6d to 3s 6d each.  
Chickens six weeks old 1s each.  
Eggs 3s per dozen, or 3d each.  
Fresh pork 1s per lb.  
Potatoes 3d per lb.  
Good white heart cabbages 1d each.  
Greens per dozen 6d.  
Turnips 6d per dozen.  
Sows in pig from £4 10s to £6 6s.  
Sows just taken by the boar from £3 to £4 4s.  
Growing pigs from £1 to £2 10s each.  
Sucking pigs 10s each.  
Moist sugar from 1s 6d to 2s 6d per lb.  
Coffee 2s to 2s 6d per lb.  
Salt pork per lb. from 8d to 9d.  
Tobacco, Brazil, per lb. from 3s to 5s.  

AT PARRAMATTA

Flour 1s per lb.  
Maize per bushel from 11s to 13s.  
Laying hens from 7s 6d to 10s each.  
Cocks for killing from 4s 6d to 5s each.  
Chickens two months old 3s each.  
Eggs per dozen 3s.  
Fresh pork per lb. from 1s 1d to 1s 3d.  
Salt pork per lb. from 10d to 1s.  
Potatoes per lb. from 3d to 4d.  
A lot of cabbages, per hundred 10s.  
Tea per lb. from 16s to £1 1s.  
Coffee per lb. from 2s to 3s.  
Moist sugar from 2s to 2s 6d per lb.  
Tobacco grown in the country from 1s 6d to 2s per lb.  
Virginia or Brazil from 4s to 6s.  
Soap from 1s 6d to 2s 6d per lb.  
Cheese from 1s 6d to 2s per lb.

June.] With infinite satisfaction it was observed at the beginning of the month, that the mortality and sickness among the people had very much decreased. This was attributed by the medical gentlemen to the quantities of fresh meat which had been obtained at Parramatta by the people who were employed to shoot for the hospital; a sufficiency having been brought in at one time to supply the sick with fresh meat for a week; and for the remainder of the month in the proportion of twice or three times a week. Great quantities of vegetables had also been given to those who were in health, as well as to the sick, both from the public ground at the farther settlement (which had been sown, and produced some most excellent turnips) and from the governor's garden.

June.] At the start of the month, it was observed with great satisfaction that there was a significant decrease in mortality and illness among the people. The medical professionals attributed this to the large amounts of fresh meat that had been sourced from Parramatta, brought in by those assigned to hunt for the hospital. Enough was delivered at one time to provide the sick with fresh meat for a week, and for the rest of the month, it was supplied two to three times a week. Additionally, a substantial amount of vegetables had been distributed to both the healthy and the sick, coming from the public land at the distant settlement (which had been planted and yielded some excellent turnips) and from the governor's garden.

4th.] The anniversary of his Majesty's birthday was observed with as much distinction as was in our power. The governor always wished to celebrate that day in the year in a manner that should render it welcome to all descriptions of people in the different settlements. Heretofore on the same occasion he had increased the ration of provisions; but the situation of the public stores not admitting of such increase at the present, the commissary was directed to issue on that day half a pint of rum to each person of the civil and military department, and a quarter of a pint of rum to each female in the settlement. At noon the New South Wales corps fired three volleys, and the governor received the compliments of the day; after which the officers of each department were entertained by his Excellency at dinner at government-house. Bonfires were made at night, and the day concluded joyfully, without any interruption to the peace of the settlement.

4th.] The anniversary of the King’s birthday was celebrated with as much distinction as we could manage. The governor always wanted to make that day enjoyable for everyone in the different settlements. In previous years, he had increased the food rations on that occasion; however, since the current state of the public stores didn't allow for that, the commissary was instructed to distribute half a pint of rum to each person in the civil and military departments and a quarter of a pint of rum to each female in the settlement. At noon, the New South Wales corps fired three volleys, and the governor received the day’s congratulations; afterward, he hosted the officers from each department for dinner at government house. Bonfires were set up at night, and the day ended joyfully, without any disruption to the peace of the settlement.

The small allowance of spirits which was given for the day to the convalescents, and to such sick in the hospital as the surgeon judged proper, being found of infinite service to them, the governor directed that the surgeon should receive a certain quantity, and at his discretion issue it from time to time to such sick under his care as he thought would derive benefit from it; the remainder was ordered to be reserved for the use of the sloop when it might be necessary to send her to sea. The spirits at this time in the colony were the surplus of what had been sent out for his majesty's ship Sirius, and the Supply armed tender.

The small allowance of alcohol provided daily to the recovering patients and to certain sick individuals in the hospital, as deemed appropriate by the surgeon, proved to be extremely beneficial for them. The governor instructed that the surgeon should receive a specific amount and distribute it as needed to those he believed would benefit from it. The remaining supply was to be kept for the sloop’s use when it was necessary to send it out to sea. The alcohol currently in the colony was the excess that had been sent for His Majesty's ship Sirius and the Supply armed tender.

As it had been customary too, on this day, to grant a pardon to such offenders as might be in custody or under sentence of corporal punishment, his Excellency was pleased a few days after to release such convicts as were sentenced to work in irons for a limited time at Parramatta and the New Grounds, and who were not very notorious offenders. This lenity was the rather shown at this time, as the convicts were in general giving proofs of a greater disposition to honesty than had for some time been visible among them. The convicts at the New Grounds being assembled for this purpose, the governor acquainted them, 'that the state of the colony requiring a still farther reduction in the ration, it would very shortly take place; but that he hoped soon to have it in his power to augment it. The deficiencies in the established ration, he informed them, should at a future period be made up; but in the meantime he expected that every man would continue to exert himself and get the corn into the ground to insure support for the next year.' Indeed these exertions became every day more necessary. On the 6th of this month there was only a sufficiency of flour in store to serve till the 2nd of July, and salt provisions till the 6th of August following, at the ration then issued; and neither the Atlantic storeship from Calcutta, nor the expected supplies from England, had arrived.

As was customary on this day, a pardon was granted to those offenders in custody or facing corporal punishment. A few days later, the governor decided to release some convicts who had been sentenced to labor with chains for a limited time at Parramatta and the New Grounds, provided they were not serious offenders. This leniency was particularly noteworthy since the convicts had recently shown a greater willingness to be honest than had been seen for a while. The convicts at the New Grounds gathered for this announcement, and the governor informed them that due to the state of the colony, a further reduction in their rations would soon happen; however, he hoped to increase them again in the near future. He told them that any shortfall in the established rations would be addressed later, but in the meantime, he expected everyone to keep working hard to plant corn to ensure food for the next year. In fact, these efforts were becoming increasingly urgent. On the 6th of this month, there was only enough flour in stock to last until July 2nd, and salt provisions until August 6th, based on the current ration; neither the Atlantic supply ship from Calcutta nor the expected supplies from England had arrived.

Notwithstanding the mortality and sickness which had prevailed among the convicts who came out in the last ships, much labour had been performed at the New Grounds by those who were capable of handling the hoe and the spade. At this time the quantity of ground in wheat, and cleared and broken up for maize, there and at Parramatta, was such as (if not visited again by a dry season) would at least, computing the produce even at what it was the last year, yield a sufficiency of grain for all our numbers for a twelvemonth. But every one doubted the possibility of getting all the corn into the ground within the proper time, unless the colony should be very speedily relieved from its distresses, as the reduction in the ration would inevitably be followed by a diminution of the daily labour.

Despite the death and sickness that had affected the convicts who arrived on the last ships, a lot of work had been done at the New Grounds by those capable of using a hoe and a spade. At this time, the amount of land planted with wheat and cleared for maize, both there and at Parramatta, was enough that, assuming they weren’t hit by another dry season, it would at least produce enough grain for everyone for a year, based on last year's yield. However, everyone was uncertain about whether they could get all the corn planted on time without the colony quickly overcoming its hardships, since the reduction in rations would inevitably lead to a decrease in daily labor.

On the 20th however, to the inexpressible joy of all ranks of people in the settlements, the Atlantic storeship anchored safely in the cove, with a cargo of rice, soujee, and dholl, from Calcutta, having been much longer performing her voyage than was expected, owing to some delays at Calcutta, in settling and arranging the contract for the supply of provisions which had been required. The merchants who, in the year 1790, had made a tender to supply this colony with certain articles at a stipulated price, were, from several concurring circumstances, unable to furnish what was required by Lieutenant Bowen, agreeable to the prices then stipulated; it was therefore determined by the members of the council at Calcutta, to whom Lieutenant Bowen delivered his letters and instructions (Earl Cornwallis, who had, several months previous to his arrival, been desired by the secretary of state to direct any supplies which might be required for this settlement, being absent with the army), to invite offers for supplying the different articles which were required by contract. Lieutenant Bowen arrived at Calcutta on the 4th of February, and it was not till the 27th of the following month that the business was finally arranged, and a contract entered into by the house of Lambert, Ross, and Co. satisfactory to the council and to Lieutenant Bowen.

On the 20th, however, to the immense joy of everyone in the settlements, the Atlantic storeship anchored safely in the cove, bringing a cargo of rice, soujee, and dholl from Calcutta. The voyage took much longer than expected due to delays in Calcutta, as they were sorting out the contract for the needed provisions. The merchants who, in 1790, had submitted bids to supply the colony with certain goods at a set price were, for various reasons, unable to provide what Lieutenant Bowen needed at the agreed prices. Therefore, the council members in Calcutta, to whom Lieutenant Bowen delivered his letters and instructions (Earl Cornwallis, who had been asked by the secretary of state to manage any necessary supplies for the settlement months before and was absent with the army), decided to invite offers for the supply of the needed goods. Lieutenant Bowen arrived in Calcutta on February 4, and it wasn’t until March 27 that everything was finally sorted out, leading to a contract with the firm of Lambert, Ross, and Co. that satisfied both the council and Lieutenant Bowen.

It appearing that the flour of Bengal, unless it was dressed for the purpose, which would have taken a great deal of time, was not of a quality to keep even for the voyage from Calcutta to this country a large proportion of rice, of that sort which was said to be the fittest for preservation, was purchased. A small quantity of flour too was put on board, but merely for the purpose of experiment. It was called soujee by the natives, but was much inferior in quality to the flour prepared in Europe, and more difficult to make into bread.

It seemed that the flour from Bengal, unless it was specially processed for this purpose—which would have taken a lot of time—wasn't good enough to last even for the journey from Calcutta to this country. A large amount of rice, known to be the best for preservation, was bought. A small amount of flour was also loaded onto the ship, but only for testing. The locals referred to it as soujee, but it was far inferior to the flour made in Europe and harder to turn into bread.

The Atlantic left Calcutta the 28th of March, and on her passage met with much bad weather, and some heavy gales of wind. She brought two bulls and a cow of the Bengal breed, together with twenty sheep and twenty goats; but these were of so diminutive a species, that, unless the breed could be considerably improved by that already in the country, very little benefit was for a length of time to be expected from their importation. Various seeds and plants also were received from the company's botanical garden; and much commendation was due to Colonel Kydd, the gentleman who superintended the selection and arrangement of them for the voyage; as well as to Lieutenant Bowen, for his care, and for the accommodation which he gave up, both to them and to the cattle, in the cabin of the ship.

The Atlantic left Calcutta on March 28th and encountered a lot of bad weather, including some strong gales. She brought two bulls and a cow of the Bengal breed, along with twenty sheep and twenty goats; however, these were such a small breed that, unless they could be significantly improved by crossbreeding with local livestock, little benefit was expected from their import over a long period. The ship also received various seeds and plants from the company's botanical garden, and Colonel Kydd deserves a lot of praise for supervising their selection and arrangement for the journey. Lieutenant Bowen also deserves credit for his care and for the accommodations he provided for both the plants and the animals in the ship's cabin.

Information was received by the Calcutta papers of the loss of his Majesty's ship Pandora, Captain Edwards, who had been among the Friendly islands in search of Christian and his piratical crew, fourteen of whom he had secured, and was returning with the purpose of surveying Endeavour Straits pursuant to his instructions, when he unfortunately struck upon a reef in latitude 23 degrees S eleven degrees only to the northward of this port. By his boats he providentially reached Timor with ninety-nine of his officers and people, being the whole of his ship's company which were saved. At Timor, on his arrival, he found Bryant and his companions, who made their escape from this place in the fishing cutter in the night of the 28th of March 1791. These people had framed and told a plausible tale of distress, of their having been cast away at sea; and this for a time was believed; but they soon, by their language to each other, and by practising the tricks of their former profession, gave room for suspicion; and being taken up, their true characters and the circumstances of their escape were divulged. The Dutch governor of Timor delivered them to Captain Edwards, who took them on with him to Batavia, whence he was to proceed to England. The circumstance of these people having reached Timor confirmed what was suggested immediately after their departure, that the master of the snow Waaksamheyd had furnished Bryant with instructions how to proceed, and with every thing he stood in need of for his voyage; and it must be remembered, that though this man, during his stay in this port, had constantly said that every sort of refreshment was to be procured at Timor, yet when Captain Hunter, while at sea, proposed to steer for that island, he declared that nothing was to be got there, and so prevented that officer from going thither. There cannot be a doubt that, expecting to find his friends at Timor, he did not choose either to endanger them, or risk a discovery of the part he had acted in aiding their escape.

Information was received by the Calcutta newspapers about the loss of His Majesty's ship Pandora, Captain Edwards, who had been in the Friendly Islands searching for Christian and his pirate crew. He had captured fourteen of them and was on his way back to survey Endeavour Straits as per his instructions when he unfortunately hit a reef at latitude 23 degrees S, just eleven degrees north of this port. By using his boats, he miraculously reached Timor with ninety-nine of his officers and crew members, which was the entire ship’s company that was saved. Upon arriving in Timor, he found Bryant and his companions, who had escaped from this location in a fishing cutter on the night of March 28, 1791. These men had spun a convincing story about being shipwrecked at sea, and for a while, it was believed. However, their conversation and tricks from their past profession raised suspicion, and once apprehended, the truth about their identities and the circumstances of their escape came to light. The Dutch governor of Timor handed them over to Captain Edwards, who took them along to Batavia, from where he was to set off for England. The fact that these men made it to Timor confirmed what was suspected right after their departure—that the captain of the snow Waaksamheyd had given Bryant instructions on how to proceed and everything he needed for his voyage. It’s worth noting that while this man was in port, he consistently claimed that all kinds of supplies could be found in Timor, yet when Captain Hunter proposed sailing to that island while at sea, he insisted that there was nothing available there, preventing that officer from going. There’s no doubt that, anticipating finding his friends in Timor, he chose not to jeopardize them or risk revealing his role in helping their escape.

Had it not been for the fortunate discovery and subsequent delivery of these people to a captain of a British man of war, the evident practicability of reaching Timor in an open boat might have operated with others to make the attempt, and to carry off boats from the settlements; which, during the absence of the king's ships belonging to the station, was never difficult; and it was now hoped, that the certainty of every boat which should reach that or any other Dutch settlement under similar circumstances being suspected and received accordingly, would have its due effect here.

Had it not been for the fortunate discovery and subsequent delivery of these people to a captain of a British warship, the clear possibility of reaching Timor in an open boat might have motivated others to make the attempt and take boats from the settlements, which, during the absence of the king's ships assigned to the station, was never hard. It was now hoped that the certainty that every boat reaching that or any other Dutch settlement under similar circumstances would be suspected and treated accordingly would have the desired effect here.

The supply of provisions received by the Atlantic being confined to grain, it became necessary to reduce the ration of salt meat. It was therefore ordered on the 21st, that after the Friday following only two pounds of pork should be issued in lieu of four. The allowance of one pound and a half of flour and four pounds of maize was continued, but one pound of rice and one quart of peas were added.

The supply of food for the Atlantic was limited to grain, so it became necessary to lower the amount of salt meat. On the 21st, it was decided that starting the Friday after, only two pounds of pork would be given instead of four. The allowance of one and a half pounds of flour and four pounds of corn remained the same, but one pound of rice and one quart of peas were added.

The general order given out on this occasion stated,

The general order issued on this occasion stated,

That the arrival of ships with further supplies of provisions might be daily looked for; but as it was possible that some unforeseen accident might have happened to the ships which were expected to have sailed from England shortly after the departure of the Pitt, it became necessary to reduce the ration of provisions then issued, in order that the quantity in store might hold out till the arrival of those ships, which might be supposed to have sailed for this country about the months of January or February last; it having been the intention of government that ships should sail from England for this colony twice in every year. And as all deficiencies in the ration were to be made good hereafter, the following extract from the instructions which fixed the ration for the colony was inserted, viz

That the arrival of ships with more supplies of food was expected daily; however, it was possible that some unforeseen accident could have happened to the ships that were supposed to have left England shortly after the departure of the Pitt. Therefore, it became necessary to reduce the ration of food being distributed, so that the amount in stock would last until those ships arrived, which were expected to have set sail for this country around January or February of last year. The government intended for ships to leave England for this colony twice a year. Since any shortages in the ration would be compensated later, the following extract from the instructions that set the ration for the colony was included, viz

Ration for each marine and male convict for seven days successively: 7 pounds of bread, or in lieu thereof 7 pounds of flour; 7 pounds of beef, or in lieu thereof 4 pounds of pork; 3 pints of peas; 6 ounces of butter; 1 pound of flour, or in lieu thereof half a pound of rice:

Ration for each marine and male convict for seven days in a row: 7 pounds of bread, or instead 7 pounds of flour; 7 pounds of beef, or instead 4 pounds of pork; 3 pints of peas; 6 ounces of butter; 1 pound of flour, or instead half a pound of rice:

Being the same as are allowed his Majesty's troops serving in the West-India Islands, excepting only the allowance of spirits.

Being the same as what is permitted for His Majesty's troops stationed in the West Indies, except for the allowance of alcohol.

And two thirds of the above ration were directed to be issued to each woman in the settlement.

And two-thirds of the above ration were ordered to be given to each woman in the settlement.

So far the general order.

So far, the overall plan.

As, however, a sufficient quantity of rice could not be landed in time to issue on the Saturday, one pound of maize was issued in lieu of the same quantity of rice.

As a sufficient amount of rice couldn't be delivered in time for the Saturday distribution, one pound of maize was given instead of the same amount of rice.

At this ration the rice and flour or soujee were calculated to last five months; and the peas or dholl for nearly a twelvemonth. But if the Atlantic had not arrived, the prospect in the colony would have been truly dreary and distressing; as it was intended to have issued only one pound and a half of flour, three pounds of maize, and two pounds of pork per week, on Saturday the 23rd; a ration that would have derived very little assistance from vegetables, as at that season of the year the gardens had scarcely any thing in them. Gloomy and unpromising, however, as was the situation of the settlements before her arrival, that event, which happened the very day on which, two years before, the colony had been relieved by the arrival of the Justinian storeship, cast a gleam of sunshine which penetrated everyone capable of reflection, and, by effecting a sudden change in the ideas, operated so powerfully on the mind, that we all felt alike, and found it impossible to sit for one minute seriously down to any business or accustomed pursuit.

At this rate, the rice and flour or semolina were expected to last five months, and the peas or lentils for almost a year. But if the Atlantic hadn’t arrived, the future in the colony would have been really bleak and distressing; it was planned to distribute only one and a half pounds of flour, three pounds of corn, and two pounds of pork per week, starting Saturday the 23rd—a ration that would get very little support from vegetables since, at that time of year, the gardens had hardly anything in them. Although the situation in the settlements was gloomy and unpromising before her arrival, that event, which occurred on the very day two years earlier when the colony had been saved by the arrival of the Justinian storeship, brought a ray of hope that uplifted everyone who could think clearly. It suddenly changed our mindset so strongly that we all felt the same way and found it impossible to focus on any work or routine for even a minute.

A black, the same who had secreted himself on board the Supply when she went to Batavia, having found means to conceal himself on board the Atlantic on her departure for Calcutta, and to remain concealed until she had left Norfolk Island, was brought back again to the settlement, notwithstanding he endeavoured to escape from the ship in the Ganges. As it appeared that he had served the term for which he was sentenced to be transported even before he got off on board the Atlantic, of which Lieutenant Bowen had only his assertion, no punishment was inflicted upon him, and he was left at liberty to get away in any ship that would receive him on board.

A Black man, the same one who hid on the Supply when it went to Batavia, managed to conceal himself on the Atlantic when it left for Calcutta and stayed hidden until the ship left Norfolk Island. He was brought back to the settlement, even though he tried to escape from the ship in the Ganges. Since it appeared that he had already served his sentence for transportation even before he got on board the Atlantic, which was only Lieutenant Bowen's claim, no punishment was given to him, and he was free to leave on any ship that would take him.

The little live stock that was received by the Atlantic was landed at Parramatta directly after her arrival, and placed in an inclosure separated from the others.

The small livestock that was brought in by the Atlantic was unloaded at Parramatta right after its arrival and kept in a separate enclosure away from the others.

About two hundred and fifty gallons of Bengal rum having been received, the governor directed, that in consequence of the ration being reduced, that quantity, together with what was in store, and had been intended for the use of the sloop at a future time, should be issued to the civil and military, reserving a proportion for those at Norfolk Island.

About two hundred and fifty gallons of Bengal rum were received, and the governor ordered that because the ration was being reduced, that amount, along with what was already in stock and meant for future use by the sloop, should be distributed to the civil and military personnel, while keeping a portion for those at Norfolk Island.

The flag-staff which had been erected at the South Head under the direction of Captain Hunter, in the month of January 1790, being found too short to show the signal at any great distance, a new one was taken down the harbour, and erected the day the Atlantic arrived, within a few feet of the other; its height above ground was sixty feet.

The flagpole that was put up at South Head under Captain Hunter's supervision in January 1790 was found to be too short to display the signal from a long distance. A new one was brought down the harbor and set up on the same day the Atlantic arrived, just a few feet away from the original. Its height above the ground was sixty feet.

It was not found that the return of the Atlantic had caused any diminution in the price of grain or stock, either at Parramatta or at Sydney. At this latter place a market had been established for the sale of grain, fish, or poultry, similar to that at Parramatta; a clerk being appointed to superintend it, and take account of the different articles brought for sale, to prevent the barter of goods stolen by the convicts.

It was not found that the return of the Atlantic had caused any decrease in the price of grain or livestock, either in Parramatta or Sydney. In Sydney, a market had been set up for the sale of grain, fish, and poultry, similar to the one in Parramatta; a clerk was appointed to oversee it and keep track of the different items brought for sale, to prevent the exchange of goods stolen by the convicts.

On the last day of the month, some natives residing at the south shore of Botany Bay, whether from a hope of reward, or from actually having seen some ships at a distance, informed the governor that a few days before they had perceived four or five sail, one of which they described to be larger than the others, standing off the land, with a westerly wind. Little credit was however given to their report.

On the last day of the month, some locals living on the south shore of Botany Bay, whether hoping for a reward or having actually spotted some ships in the distance, told the governor that a few days earlier they had seen four or five sails, one of which they described as larger than the others, moving away from the land with a westerly wind. However, not much trust was placed in their report.

July.] As the merchants who supplied the provisions received by the Atlantic were only to be paid for such part of the cargo as was actually landed, and found to be in a merchantable condition, it became necessary to weigh and survey the whole of the cargo; for which purpose two surveyors were appointed by the governor. This of course proved a very tedious business, from the weakness of the gangs at Sydney. Seldom more than four hundred bags, each bag containing one hundred and sixty-four pounds, were at first landed in a day; latterly, this number was by great exertions got up to somewhat more than five hundred in a day. It was not, however, till the 21st of the month that she was cleared.

July.] Since the merchants who provided the supplies for the Atlantic would only get paid for the part of the cargo that was actually unloaded and found to be in good condition, it was necessary to weigh and inspect the entire cargo. For this task, two surveyors were appointed by the governor. This ended up being a very slow process due to the weakness of the laborers in Sydney. At first, they rarely unloaded more than four hundred bags, each containing one hundred sixty-four pounds, in a day; later on, with a lot of effort, this number was increased to just over five hundred bags daily. However, it wasn’t until the 21st of the month that the ship was fully cleared.

Having discharged her cargo, she began the serious labour of ballasting, and it being wished to expedite her preparations for Norfolk Island, her ship's company were assisted with twelve convicts from the settlement, and the occasional use of such boats as could be spared to convey the ballast to the ship. The governor was anxious to learn the state of that dependency, not having heard from it since the return of the Queen transport early in the last December.

Having unloaded her cargo, she started the hard work of adding ballast, and since there was a desire to speed up her preparations for Norfolk Island, her crew received help from twelve convicts from the settlement, as well as the occasional use of any available boats to transport the ballast to the ship. The governor was eager to find out how that outpost was doing, as he hadn’t heard from it since the return of the Queen transport earlier last December.

The maize being all got in, it was hoped that the convicts would not find any new object for their depredations, and that order and tranquillity would for a time at least be restored among them. But the houses of individuals soon became their prey, and three or four daring burglaries were committed this month: I say daring burglaries, as the houses which were broken into were either within the view of a sentinel, or within the round of a watchman. This, however, must not be otherwise understood than as a proof of the perseverance and cunning of these people, who could find means to elude any vigilance that was opposed to their designs. An attempt to steal some of the sheep at Parramatta was also made by two notorious offenders, who, from being deemed incorrigible, were not included in the pardon which the governor granted to the wretches in irons after his Majesty's birthday, but were ordered to be chained together for some longer time. Being fortunately overheard by the person who lived in the inclosure, and had the care of the stock, he snapped a piece at them, and, finding it miss fire, gave an alarm to the watch, by whose activity they were apprehended two miles from the place. They were provided with every thing necessary for their design, such as a tomahawk, an iron kettle, knives, spoons, platters, and a quantity of vegetables. It was found, that with the assistance of the tomahawk they had divided the chain that linked them together, and had secured round the leg the iron that remained with each, so as not to be heard when they moved.

Once the corn was fully harvested, it was hoped that the convicts wouldn’t find any new targets for their thefts and that some order and peace would be restored among them, at least for a while. However, the homes of individuals soon became their targets, and three or four bold burglaries were committed this month; I call them bold because the houses that were broken into were either in view of a guard or within the patrol of a watchman. This should not be understood in any other way than as evidence of the determination and cleverness of these individuals, who found ways to evade any vigilance against their plans. There was also an attempt to steal some sheep in Parramatta made by two known offenders, who, since they were considered unmanageable, were not included in the pardon the governor granted to the wretched convicts after His Majesty’s birthday, but were ordered to be chained together for a longer period. Fortunately, they were overheard by the person who lived nearby and was responsible for the livestock; he took a shot at them, and after missing, raised the alarm for the watch, who quickly apprehended them two miles from the scene. They were equipped with everything needed for their scheme, including a tomahawk, an iron pot, knives, spoons, plates, and a bunch of vegetables. It was discovered that with the help of the tomahawk, they had broken the chain that linked them together and had secured the remaining iron around each of their legs in a way that it wouldn’t make noise when they moved.

The different species of provisions which had been received from Calcutta were not much esteemed by the people. The flour or soujee, from our not knowing the proper mode of preparing it for bread, soon became sour, particularly if not assisted with some other grain; the dholl, or peas, were complained of as boiling hard, and not breaking, though kept on the fire for a greater length of time than the impatience of those who were to use it would in general admit of; and the rice, though termed the best of the cargo, was found to be full of husks, and ill dressed. Some pork also, of which eight casks had been sent as an experiment, was, on being issued, found to be for the most part putrid, and, in the language of surveyors of provisions, not fit for men to eat. These circumstances, together with the extreme minuteness of the Bengal breed of cattle, excited a general hope, that these settlements would not have to depend upon that country for supplies. To the parent country every one anxiously looked for a speedy and substantial assistance; and day after day used to pass in a fruitless hope that the morrow would come accompanied with the long wished-for arrival of ships.

The various types of supplies that were received from Calcutta were not very valued by the people. The flour or semolina quickly went bad because we didn’t know the right way to prepare it for bread, especially if it wasn’t mixed with other grains; the lentils or peas were said to cook hard and wouldn't break apart, even after being on the fire longer than those who were supposed to eat them usually could tolerate; and the rice, although called the best of the shipment, was found to be full of husks and poorly prepared. Some pork, of which eight casks had been sent as a test, was mostly spoiled, and, in the words of food inspectors, not fit for human consumption. These issues, along with the extremely small size of the Bengal cattle, raised a common hope that these settlements wouldn’t have to rely on that region for supplies. Everyone was eagerly looking to the home country for quick and substantial help; each day passed in vain hope that tomorrow would finally bring the long-awaited arrival of ships.

Eastern view of Sydney.

The natives who lived among us assured us from time to time, that the report formerly propagated of ships having been seen on the coast had a foundation in reality; and as every one remembered that the Justinian, after making the heads of Port Jackson, had been kept at sea for three weeks, a fond hope was cherished that the sun had shone upon the whitened sails of some approaching vessel, which had been discovered by the penetrating eyes of our savage neighbours at Botany Bay. In this anxiety and expectation we remained till the 26th, when the long-wished-for signal was made, and in a few hours after the Britannia storeship, Mr. William Raven master, anchored in the cove, after a passage of twenty-three weeks from Falmouth, having sailed from thence on the 15th of last February, the day after the arrival of the Pitt in this country.

The locals who lived near us occasionally told us that the stories about ships being spotted along the coast were actually true. Everyone remembered that the Justinian, after reaching Port Jackson, had spent three weeks at sea, so there was a hopeful belief that the sun had glinted off the white sails of a ship that our keen-eyed Indigenous neighbors at Botany Bay had noticed. We held onto this anxiety and anticipation until the 26th, when the long-awaited signal was finally made. Just a few hours later, the supplies ship Britannia, under the command of Mr. William Raven, anchored in the cove after a journey of twenty-three weeks from Falmouth, having set sail from there on February 15th, the day after the Pitt arrived in this country.

The Britannia was the first of three ships that were to be dispatched hither, having on board twelve months clothing for the convicts, four months flour, and eight months beef and pork for every description of persons in the settlements, at full allowance, calculating their numbers at four thousand six hundred and thirty-nine, which it was at home supposed they might amount to after the arrival of the Pitt. It was still a matter of uncertainty in England, even at the departure of the Britannia, whether the merchants of Calcutta had supplied this country with provisions; and under the idea that some circumstance might have prevented them, this supply was ordered to be forwarded. The Kitty transport, one of the three ships which were to contain these supplies, had sailed from Deptford, at the time the Britannia passed through the Downs; her arrival therefore might be daily expected, and in her, or on board of the other ship, it was imagined that fifteen families of Quakers, who had made proposals to government to be received in this country as settlers, were to take their passage.

The Britannia was the first of three ships set to sail here, carrying a year's worth of clothing for the convicts, four months of flour, and eight months of beef and pork for everyone in the settlements, based on an estimated population of four thousand six hundred and thirty-nine, which people back home thought they might reach after the Pitt arrived. Even when the Britannia left, it was still uncertain in England if merchants from Calcutta had supplied this country with food, so it was decided to send this supply just in case. The Kitty transport, one of the three ships carrying these supplies, had already set sail from Deptford by the time the Britannia went through the Downs; her arrival was expected any day, and it was believed that on her, or the other ship, there were fifteen families of Quakers who had asked the government to allow them to settle here.

It was with great pleasure heard in the colony, that some steps had been taken toward prosecuting Donald Trail, the master of the Neptune transport, for his treatment of the convicts with which he sailed from England for this settlement in the year 1790. The sickness and mortality which prevailed among them excited a suspicion that they had been improperly treated; and information upon oath was soon procured of many acts of neglect, ill usage, and cruelty toward them.

It was with great pleasure in the colony that news spread about steps being taken to prosecute Donald Trail, the captain of the Neptune transport, for how he treated the convicts he brought from England to this settlement in 1790. The sickness and high death rate among them raised suspicions of improper treatment, and sworn testimony was soon gathered detailing numerous acts of neglect, mistreatment, and cruelty toward them.

In the consequence of the arrival of the Britannia, the commissary was on the following day directed to issue, until further orders, the following weekly ration, viz to each man 4 pounds of maize, 3 pounds of soujee, 7 pounds of beef, or in lieu thereof 4 lbs. of pork, 3 pints of peas or dholl, and ½ a pound of rice.

In light of the arrival of the Britannia, the commissary was instructed the next day to provide, until further notice, the following weekly ration: 4 pounds of corn, 3 pounds of flour, 7 pounds of beef, or instead 4 pounds of pork, 3 pints of peas or lentils, and ½ pound of rice.

Two thirds of the man's ration was directed to be issued to each woman and to every child above ten years of age; one half of the man's ration to each child above two, and under ten years of age; and one fourth of the man's ration to each child under two years of age.

Two-thirds of the man's ration was designated to be given to each woman and every child over ten years old; half of the man's ration to each child over two and under ten years old; and a quarter of the man's ration to each child under two years old.

Thus happily was the colony once more put upon something like a full ration of provisions; a change in our situation that gave universal satisfaction, as at the hour of the arrival of the Britannia there were in the public store only twenty-four days salt provisions for the settlement at the ration then issued. A delay of a month in her voyage would have placed the colony in a state that must have excited the commiseration of its greatest enemies; a vast body of hard-working people depending for their support upon one pound and a half of soujee, or bad Bengal flour, four pounds of maize, one pound of rice, and one quart of peas for one man per week, without one ounce of meat! But with this new ration all entertained new hopes, and trusted that their future labours would be crowned with success, and that the necessity of sending out supplies from the mother country until the colony could support itself without assistance would have become so evident from the frequency of our distresses and the reduction of the ration, that the journalist would no longer have occasion to fill his page with comparisons between what we might have been and what we were; to lament the non arrival of supplies; nor to paint the miseries and wretchedness which ensued; but might adopt a language to which he might truly be said to have been hitherto a stranger, and paint the glowing prospects of a golden harvest, the triumph of a well-filled store, and the increasing and consequent prosperity of the settlements.

The colony was once again provided with a decent supply of food, which made everyone happy. At the time the Britannia arrived, there were only twenty-four days’ worth of salt provisions left in the public store for the settlement based on the current rations. If her journey had been delayed by a month, the colony would have faced a situation that would have drawn sympathy even from its worst enemies; a large group of hardworking people relying on just a pound and a half of soujee, or bad Bengal flour, four pounds of maize, one pound of rice, and one quart of peas per person each week—without any meat! But with the new rations, everyone felt hopeful and believed that their future efforts would lead to success. They thought it would become clearer that sending supplies from the mother country would be necessary until the colony could support itself independently, given how often they faced hardships and the shrinking rations. The journalist would no longer have to fill his pages with comparisons between what they could have been and what they were, lament the lack of supplies, or describe the ensuing misery and hardship. Instead, he could use a language he had previously been unfamiliar with, painting the bright prospects of a bountiful harvest, the success of a well-stocked store, and the growing prosperity of the settlements.

His excellency this month thought fit to exercise the power vested in him by act of parliament, and by his Majesty's commission under the great seal, of remitting either wholly, or in part, the term for which felons might be transported, by granting an absolute remission of the term for which Elizabeth Perry had been sentenced. This woman came out in the Neptune in 1790, and had married James Ruse a settler. The good conduct of the wife, and the industry of the husband, who had for some time supported himself, his wife, a child, and two convicts, independent of the public store, were the reasons assigned in the instrument which restored her to her rights and privileges as a free woman, for extending to her the hand of forgiveness.

His Excellency this month decided to use the authority given to him by an act of Parliament and by His Majesty's commission under the Great Seal to completely or partially reduce the term for which felons could be transported. He granted an absolute remission of the sentence for which Elizabeth Perry had been convicted. This woman arrived on the Neptune in 1790 and married James Ruse, a settler. The good behavior of the wife and the hard work of the husband, who had been supporting himself, his wife, a child, and two convicts without relying on the public store, were the reasons stated in the document that restored her rights and privileges as a free woman and for extending forgiveness to her.

This power, so pleasing to the feelings of its possessor, had hitherto been very sparingly exercised; and those persons who had felt its influence were not found to have been undeserving. I speak only of such convicts as had been deemed proper objects of this favour by the governor himself; the convicts, however, who came out in the Guardian were emancipated by the King's command, and of these by far the greater part conducted themselves with propriety.

This power, which was so satisfying for the person who held it, had been used very sparingly until now; and those who experienced its effects were not found to be unworthy. I'm only talking about the convicts who were considered suitable recipients of this favor by the governor himself; however, those convicts who arrived on the Guardian were freed by the King's order, and most of them behaved appropriately.

Preparing roofs for new barracks, bringing in bricks to the spot appointed for their construction, and discharging the Atlantic and the Britannia, were the principal works in hand at Sydney during the month. At the settlements beyond Parramatta (which had lately obtained and were in future to be distinguished by the name of Toongabbie) the convicts were employed in preparing the ground for the reception of next year's crop of maize. At and near Parramatta, the chief business was erecting two houses on allotments of land which belonged to Mr. Arndell the assistant surgeon, and to John Irving (one of those persons whose exemplary conduct and meritorious behaviour both in this country and on the passage to it had been rewarded with unconditional freedom by the governor), each of whom had been put in possession, the former of sixty and the latter of thirty acres of land on the creek leading to Parramatta; erecting chimneys for the different settlers at the ponds, preparing roofs for various buildings, sawing timber, cutting posts and railing for inclosures, and hoeing and preparing ground for maize.

Preparing roofs for new barracks, bringing bricks to the site designated for their construction, and unloading the Atlantic and the Britannia were the main tasks underway in Sydney during the month. At the settlements beyond Parramatta, recently named Toongabbie, the convicts were working on preparing the land for next year's maize crop. In and around Parramatta, the primary activities involved building two houses on parcels of land owned by Mr. Arndell, the assistant surgeon, and John Irving, one of those individuals whose exemplary conduct and commendable behavior both in this country and on the passage to it had earned him unconditional freedom from the governor. The former was granted sixty acres of land and the latter thirty acres along the creek leading to Parramatta; work included constructing chimneys for various settlers at the ponds, preparing roofs for different buildings, sawing timber, cutting posts and fencing for enclosures, and hoeing and getting the ground ready for maize.

CHAPTER XVIII

The Britannia has set sail
Survey of supplies
Total cargo received from Bengal
Atlantic departs with supplies for Norfolk Island
Transactions
General behavior of convicts
Criminal Courts
Prisoner conditionally pardoned
Another one found not guilty
New barracks started
Thefts
The Atlantic returns from Norfolk Island
Information
Settlers there are dissatisfied
Main projects
The Britannia is taken by the officers of the New South Wales Corps to gather livestock
The Royal Admiral, an East Indiaman, arrives from England
Regulations at the store
A burglary has occurred
Criminal Court
The Britannia sets sail
Shops are opened
Bad behavior from some settlers
Oil distributed
Supplies issued
Governor Phillip expresses his intention to return to England

August.] The Britannia was cleared, and discharged from government employ, on the 17th of this month. A deficiency appearing in the weight of the salt provisions delivered from that ship, a survey was immediately ordered; and it appeared from the report of the persons employed to conduct it, and who from their situations were well qualified to judge, Mr. Bowen, a lieutenant in the navy, and Mr. Raven, the commander of the Britannia and a master of a man of war, that the casks of beef were deficient, on an average, thirty-six pounds and one-third, and the tierces twenty-one pounds and one-third. It also appeared that the meat was lean, coarse, and boney, and worse than they have ever been issued in his Majesty's service. A deception of this nature would be more severely felt in this country, as its inhabitants had but lately experienced a change from a very short ration of salt provisions; and every ounce lost here was of importance, as the supply had been calculated on a supposition of each cask containing its full weight.

August.] The Britannia was cleared and released from government service on the 17th of this month. A shortage in the weight of the salt provisions delivered from that ship was noticed, prompting an immediate survey. The report, produced by qualified individuals, including Mr. Bowen, a navy lieutenant, and Mr. Raven, the captain of the Britannia and a warship master, revealed that the casks of beef were short by an average of thirty-six pounds and one-third, while the tierces were lacking twenty-one pounds and one-third. It was also noted that the meat was lean, tough, and bony, and of poorer quality than any previously issued in His Majesty's service. Such deception would have a serious impact in this country, especially since its residents had recently undergone a reduction to very limited rations of salt provisions; every ounce lost here was significant, as the supply had been estimated on the assumption that each cask contained its full weight.

It having been covenanted, as already mentioned, by Messrs. Lambert, Ross, and Company, that only such part of the cargo as on its arrival here should be found to be in a merchantable state should be paid for, the following quantity, having been deemed merchantable by the persons appointed to take the survey, was received into the store; viz

It was agreed, as mentioned before, by Messrs. Lambert, Ross, and Company, that only the portion of the cargo that is found to be in good condition upon arrival here would be paid for. The following quantity, considered merchantable by the appointed surveyors, was received into the store; viz

                Tons   Cwt   Qrs   lbs
Rice            190     3     2     3
Dholl           152    18     2    13
Peas             15     9     2    23
Soujee           57     3     0     4
Wheat             1    15     1    24
                ---------------------
Total of Grain  417    10     1    11
                ---------------------
[28lb=1qr, 4qr=1cwt, 20cwt=1ton. 67lb=2qr+11lb, etc.]

                Tons   Cwt   Qrs   lbs
Rice            190     3     2     3
Dholl           152    18     2    13
Peas             15     9     2    23
Soujee           57     3     0     4
Wheat             1    15     1    24
                ---------------------
Total of Grain  417    10     1    11
                ---------------------
[28lb=1qr, 4qr=1cwt, 20cwt=1ton. 67lb=2qr+11lb, etc.]

Eight casks of pork (as an experiment) from Lambert and Company; and two casks of rum containing one hundred and twenty-six gallons, supplied at 3s per gallon. Four casks of flour, and four casks of soujee from Mr. Cockraine (sent likewise as an experiment) were also received into the store.

Eight casks of pork (as a test) from Lambert and Company; and two casks of rum with one hundred and twenty-six gallons, supplied at 3s per gallon. Four casks of flour and four casks of semolina from Mr. Cockraine (also sent as a test) were also received into the store.

The unmerchantable articles, consisting of soujee, dholl, and rice, were sold at public auction; and though wholly unfit for men to eat, yet being not too bad for stock, were quickly purchased, and in general went off at a great price. Several lots, consisting of five bags of the soujee, each bag containing about one hundred and fourteen pounds, sold for £4 14s. The whole quantity of damaged grain which was thus disposed of amounted to nine hundred and ninety-one bags, and sold for £373 9s making a most desirable and acceptable provision for the private stock in the colony. For this sum of £373 9s credit was given to the merchants at the final settling of the account; at which time it appeared, that the whole of the Atlantic's cargo of rice, dholl, peas, soujee, wheat, and rum, which was to be paid for by government, amounted to the sum of £7538 14s 4d.

The unsellable items, which included semolina, lentils, and rice, were auctioned off; and although they were completely unfit for human consumption, they weren't too bad for livestock, so they sold quickly, often for a good price. Several lots, each with five bags of semolina weighing about one hundred fourteen pounds, went for £4 14s. In total, nine hundred ninety-one bags of damaged grain were sold for £373 9s, providing a much-needed supply for private stocks in the colony. For this total of £373 9s, merchants were credited at the final account settlement, where it was revealed that the total cost for the cargo of the Atlantic—which included rice, lentils, peas, semolina, wheat, and rum—was £7538 14s 4d, to be paid by the government.

This cargo might be termed an experiment, to which it was true we were driven by necessity; and it had become the universal and earnest wish that no cause might ever again induce us to try it.

This cargo could be called an experiment, driven by necessity; and it had become everyone's sincere hope that no reason would ever make us try it again.

The maize being expended, except a certain proportion which was reserved for seed, seven pounds of soujee were issued per week to each man; but as the quantity of this article which had been received from India was but small (fifty-seven tons) compared with the rice and dholl, toward the latter end of the month it became necessary to make up a new ration compounded of the various grain which had been introduced from Calcutta, and the different articles of food which had been received from England.

The corn was running low, except for a portion set aside for seed. Each man was given seven pounds of semolina per week; however, since the amount received from India was quite limited (fifty-seven tons) compared to the rice and lentils, by the end of the month it became necessary to create a new ration made up of various grains that had arrived from Calcutta, along with different food items received from England.

One third of the provisions received from Bengal by the Atlantic, and the like proportion of the stores add provisions which had been landed from the Britannia, having been put on board the former of those ships, she sailed on the 19th for Norfolk Island, having also on board two settlers from the marine detachment, twenty-two male convicts, an incorrigible lad who had been drummed out of the New South Wales corps, three natives, and a free woman, wife to one of the convicts. Among the latter description of persons were some of very bad character; others who were supposed to have formed a design of escaping from the colony; some who professed to be flax dressers, and a few artificers who might be useful at that island.

One-third of the supplies received from Bengal by the Atlantic, along with a similar amount of the stores and provisions that had been unloaded from the Britannia, were loaded onto the former ship. It set sail on the 19th for Norfolk Island, carrying two settlers from the marine detachment, twenty-two male convicts, an unruly boy who had been expelled from the New South Wales corps, three natives, and a free woman who was the wife of one of the convicts. Among those described were some with very bad reputations, others believed to be planning an escape from the colony, some who claimed to be flax dressers, and a few skilled workers who might prove helpful on that island.

At the head of a party of convicts who were said to have formed a design of seizing a boat and effecting their escape, was J. C. Morris, one of those convicts who left England in the Guardian, and who, from their meritorious behaviour before and after the disaster that befel that ship, received conditional emancipation by his Majesty's command. Morris was at Norfolk Island when the intimation of the royal bounty reached this country. Being permitted to return to this settlement, he obtained a grant of thirty acres of land at the Eastern Farms, in an advantageous situation on the northside of the creek leading to Parramatta. Here it soon became evident that he had not the industry necessary for a bona fide settler, and that, instead of cultivating his own ground, he lent himself to his neighbours, who were to repay his labour by working for him at a future day. The governor deemed this a clear forfeiture of his grant, in which it was unequivocally expressed, that he held the thirty acres on condition of his residing within the same, and proceeding to the improvement and cultivation thereof. Being no longer a settler, he declared himself able to procure his daily support without the assistance of the public stores, from which, it must be remarked, he had been maintained all the time he held his grant. Soon after this, it was said, he formed the plan of going off with a boat; yet not so cautiously, but that information was given of it to the governor, who resolved to send him back to Norfolk Island, whence an escape was by no means so practicable as from this place; and he was, very much against his inclination, put on board the Atlantic for that purpose. He found means, however, to get on shore in the night preceding her departure; and she sailed without him. A reward being offered for apprehending him, he was soon taken, and sent up to Parramatta, there to be confined on a reduced ration, until an opportunity offered of sending him to Norfolk Island.

At the head of a group of convicts who were rumored to have planned to hijack a boat and escape was J. C. Morris, one of the convicts who left England on the Guardian. He received conditional freedom by royal decree due to his good behavior before and after the disaster that befell that ship. Morris was at Norfolk Island when news of the royal favor reached this country. After being allowed to return to this settlement, he received a grant of thirty acres of land at the Eastern Farms, in a prime location on the north side of the creek leading to Parramatta. It soon became clear that he lacked the work ethic needed to be a true settler, and instead of farming his own land, he worked for his neighbors, who promised to return the favor by working for him later. The governor saw this as a clear violation of his grant, which stated that he held the thirty acres on the condition that he lived there and developed the land. No longer considered a settler, he claimed he could support himself without relying on public stores, from which, it should be noted, he had been getting supplies the whole time he held the grant. Shortly after this, it was said that he planned to escape in a boat; however, he was not discreet enough, and the governor was informed. The governor decided to send him back to Norfolk Island, where escaping was much more difficult than from this location, and, much to his displeasure, he was put on board the Atlantic for that purpose. However, he managed to get ashore the night before it left, and the ship sailed without him. After a reward was announced for his capture, he was quickly caught and sent to Parramatta, where he would be confined on a reduced ration until an opportunity arose to send him back to Norfolk Island.

During the month the governor thought it necessary to issue some regulations to be observed by those convicts whose sentences of transportation had expired. The number of people of this description in the colony had been so much increased of late, that it had become requisite to determine with precision the line in which they were to move. Having emerged from the condition of convicts, and got rid of the restraint which was necessarily imposed on them while under that subjection, many of them seemed to have forgotten that they were still amenable to the regulations of the colony, and appeared to have shaken off, with the yoke of bondage, all restraint and dependence whatsoever. They were, therefore, called upon to declare their intentions respecting their future mode of living. Those who wished to be allowed to provide for themselves were informed, that on application to the judge-advocate, they would receive a certificate of their having served their several periods of transportation, which certificate they would deposit with the commissary as his voucher for striking them off the provision and clothing lists; and once a week they were to report in what manner and for whom they had been employed.

During the month, the governor decided it was necessary to put some rules in place for those convicts whose sentences of transportation had ended. The number of these individuals in the colony had grown significantly lately, making it essential to clearly define how they should proceed. Once they emerged from being convicts and the restrictions that came with it, many seemed to forget that they were still subject to the colony's regulations and acted as if they had fully shed all control and dependence. They were, therefore, asked to state their plans regarding their future way of life. Those who wanted to be allowed to support themselves were told that by applying to the judge-advocate, they would receive a certificate confirming they had completed their transportation sentences. This certificate would need to be submitted to the commissary as proof to remove them from the food and clothing lists. Additionally, they were required to report weekly on how and for whom they had been working.

Such as should be desirous of returning to England were informed, that no obstacle would be thrown in their way, they being at liberty to ship themselves on board of such vessels as would give them a passage. And those who preferred labouring for the public, and receiving in return such ration as should be issued from the public stores, were to give in their names to the commissary, who would victual and clothe them as long as their services might be required.

Those who wanted to return to England were told that there would be no obstacles to their departure; they were free to board any ships that would take them. Those who preferred to work for the public and in exchange receive rations from the public stores were to submit their names to the commissary, who would provide them with food and clothing for as long as their services were needed.

Of those, here and at Parramatta, who had fulfilled the sentence of the law, by far the greater part signified their intention of returning to England by the first opportunity; but the getting away from the colony was now a matter of some difficulty, as it was understood that a clause was to be inserted in all future contracts for shipping for this country, subjecting the masters to certain penalties, on certificates being received of their having brought away any convicts or other persons from this settlement without the governor's permission; and as it was not probable that many of them would, on their return, refrain from the vices or avoid the society of those companions who had been the causes of their transportation to this country, not many could hope to obtain the sanction of the governor for their return.

Of those here and at Parramatta who had completed their sentences, most expressed their desire to return to England at the first chance. However, leaving the colony had become quite challenging, as it was understood that a clause would be added to all future shipping contracts for this country, imposing penalties on captains who were found to have taken any convicts or others from this settlement without the governor's approval. Since it was unlikely that many would avoid falling back into bad habits or associating with those who had led to their transportation to this country, few could expect to receive the governor's permission for their return.

With very few exceptions, however, the uniform good behaviour of the convicts was still to be noted and commended.

With very few exceptions, the overall good behavior of the inmates was still noticeable and worthy of praise.

September.] The month of September was ushered in with rain, and storms of wind, thunder, and lightning. At Parramatta and Toongabbie too, as well as at Sydney, much rain fell for several days. On the return of fine weather, it was seen with general satisfaction that the wheat sown at the latter settlement looked and promised well, and had not suffered from the rain.

September.] The month of September started off with rain, strong winds, thunder, and lightning. At Parramatta and Toongabbie, as well as Sydney, there was a lot of rain for several days. When the good weather returned, everyone was pleased to see that the wheat sown in the latter settlement looked healthy and was thriving, having not been harmed by the rain.

Early in the month the criminal court was assembled for the trial of Benjamin Ingram, a man who had served the term for which he was ordered to be transported. He had broken into a house belonging to a female convict, in which he was detected packing up her property for removal. Being found guilty, he received sentence of death; but, on the recommendation of the court, the governor was induced to grant him a pardon, upon condition of his residing for life on Norfolk Island. With this extension of mercy the culprit was not made acquainted till that moment had arrived which he thought was to separate him from this world for ever. Upon the ladder, and expecting to be turned off, the condition on which his life was spared was communicated to him; and with gratitude both to God and the governor, he received the welcome tidings. He afterwards confessed, that he had for some time past been in the habit of committing burglaries and other depredations; for, having taken himself off the stores to avoid working for the public, he was frequently distressed for food, and was thus compelled to support himself at the expense perhaps of the honest and industrious. He readily found a rascal to receive what property he could procure for sale, and for a long time escaped detection. This depraved man had two brothers in the colony; one who came out with him in the first fleet, and who had been for some time a sober, hard-working, industrious settler, having also served the term of his transportation; the other brother came out in the last year, and bore the character of a well-behaved man. There was also a fourth brother; but he was executed in England. It was said, that these unfortunate men had honest and industrious people for their parents; they could not, however, have paid much attention to the morals of their family; or, out of four, some might surely have laid claim to the character of the parents.

Early in the month, the criminal court gathered for the trial of Benjamin Ingram, a man who had completed his sentence for transportation. He had broken into a house belonging to a female convict, where he was caught packing up her belongings to take away. Found guilty, he received a death sentence; however, based on the court's recommendation, the governor agreed to grant him a pardon on the condition that he would live on Norfolk Island for the rest of his life. He was not informed of this mercy until just before he thought he was about to be executed. While on the ladder and expecting to be hanged, the condition for sparing his life was revealed to him, and he received the news with gratitude towards both God and the governor. He later admitted that he had been committing burglaries and other crimes for a while; having opted out of working for the public to avoid labor, he often struggled for food and felt compelled to take from others, possibly at the expense of honest, hardworking individuals. He easily found a partner to sell the stolen goods and managed to evade capture for a long time. This corrupt man had two brothers in the colony; one came over with him on the first fleet and had been a sober, diligent settler who had also completed his transportation sentence, while the other brother arrived the following year and was known to be well-behaved. There was a fourth brother, but he was executed in England. It was said that these unfortunate men had honest and hardworking parents; however, they must not have been very attentive to the morals of their family, or else out of the four, at least one would likely have embodied their parents' values.

The criminal court was again assembled on the 20th of this month, for the trial of William Godfrey, who was taken up on a suspicion of having seized the opportunity of some festivity on board of the Britannia, then nearly ready for sea, and taken half a barrel of powder out of the gun-room, about nine o'clock at night. Proof however was not brought home to him; although many circumstances induced every one to suppose he was the guilty person.

The criminal court was once again gathered on the 20th of this month to try William Godfrey, who was arrested on suspicion of taking advantage of a celebration on board the Britannia, which was nearly ready to set sail, and stealing half a barrel of gunpowder from the gun-room around nine o'clock at night. However, there wasn't enough evidence to convict him, even though many factors led everyone to believe he was the one responsible.

Western view of Sydney Cove.

Western view of Sydney Harbour.

This month was fixed for beginning the new barracks. For the private soldiers there were to be five buildings, each one hundred feet by twenty-four in front, and connected by a slight brick wall. At each end were to be two apartments for officers, seventy-five feet by eighteen; each apartment containing four rooms for their accommodation, with a passage of sixteen feet. Of these barracks, one at each end was to be constructed at right angles with the front, forming a wing to the centre buildings. Kitchens were to be built, with other convenient offices, in the rear, and garden ground was to be laid out at the back. Their situation promised to be healthy, and it was certainly pleasant, being nearly on the summit of the high ground at the head of the cove, overlooking the town of Sydney, and the shipping in the cove, and commanding a view down the harbour, as well of the fine piece of water forming Long Cove, as that branching off to the westward at the back of the lieutenant governor's farm.

This month was set to start building the new barracks. There would be five buildings for the soldiers, each measuring one hundred feet by twenty-four in the front, connected by a low brick wall. At each end, there were to be two officer apartments, seventy-five feet by eighteen; each apartment would have four rooms for their comfort, with a sixteen-foot passage. Of these barracks, one at each end would be built at a right angle to the front, creating a wing for the center buildings. Kitchens and other practical facilities were to be constructed in the back, and a garden area was to be developed at the rear. The location was expected to be healthy and was definitely attractive, situated nearly at the top of the high ground at the head of the cove, overlooking the town of Sydney and the ships in the cove, with a view down the harbor, including the beautiful water of Long Cove and the branch off to the west behind the lieutenant governor's farm.

The foundation of one of the buildings designed for an officer's barrack having been dug, and all the necessary materials brought together on the spot, the walls of it were got up, and the whole building roofed and covered in, in eleven days.

The foundation for one of the buildings meant for an officer's barracks was dug, and all the needed materials were gathered on-site. The walls were constructed, and the entire building was roofed and finished in eleven days.

Their situation being directly in the neighbourhood of the ground appropriated to the burial of the dead, it became necessary to choose another spot for the latter purpose; and the governor, in company with the Rev. Mr. Johnson, set apart the ground formerly cultivated by the late Captain Shea of the marines.

Their location was right next to the area designated for burying the dead, so it was necessary to select a different spot for that purpose. The governor, along with Rev. Mr. Johnson, designated the land that was previously farmed by the late Captain Shea of the marines.

Several thefts were committed at Sydney and at Parramatta, from which latter place three male convicts absconded, taking with them the provisions of their huts, intending, it was supposed, to get on board the Britannia. Rewards being offered, some of them were taken in the woods. It had been found, that the masters of ships would give passages to such people as could afford to pay them from ten to twenty pounds for the same, and the perpetrators of some of the thefts which were committed appeared to have had that circumstance in view, as one or two huts, whose proprietors were well known to have amassed large sums of money for people in their situations, were broken into; and in one instance they succeeded. On the night of the 22nd the hut of Mary Burne, widow of a man who had been employed as a game-killer, was robbed of dollars to the amount of eleven pounds; with which the pillagers got off undiscovered.

Several thefts occurred in Sydney and Parramatta, where three male convicts escaped, taking supplies from their huts. It was believed they planned to board the Britannia. With rewards offered, some of them were captured in the woods. It was found that ship captains would give rides to people who could pay between ten to twenty pounds, and those involved in some of the thefts seemed to have that opportunity in mind, as a couple of huts belonging to individuals known to have saved significant amounts of money were broken into; in one instance, they succeeded. On the night of the 22nd, the hut of Mary Burne, a widow whose husband had worked as a game-killer, was robbed of eleven pounds in dollars, and the thieves left without being noticed.

On the 30th the Britannia left the cove, dropping down below Bradley's Point, preparatory to sailing on her intended voyage to Dusky Bay in New Zealand; and while every one was remarking, that the cove (being left without a ship) again looked solitary and uncomfortable, the signal was made at the South Head, and at ten o'clock at night the Atlantic anchored in the cove from Norfolk Island, where, we had the satisfaction to learn, the large cargo which she had on board was landed in safety, although at one time the ship was in great danger of running ashore at Cascade Bay. We now learned that the expectations which had been formed of the crops at Norfolk Island had been too sanguine; but their salt provisions lasted very well. Governor King, however, wrote that the crops then in the ground promised favourably, although he would not venture to speak decidedly, as they were very much annoyed by the grub. This was an enemy produced by the extreme richness of the soil; and it was remarked, that as the land was opened and cleared, it was found to be exposed to the blighting winds which infest the island.

On the 30th, the Britannia left the cove, moving down past Bradley's Point, getting ready to sail on her planned voyage to Dusky Bay in New Zealand. While everyone was commenting that the cove, now without a ship, looked empty and uncomfortable again, the signal was raised at the South Head, and at ten o'clock that night, the Atlantic anchored in the cove after coming from Norfolk Island. We were pleased to learn that the large cargo she was carrying was safely unloaded, even though at one point the ship was in serious danger of running aground at Cascade Bay. We also found out that the expectations for the crops on Norfolk Island were too optimistic; however, their salted provisions held up well. Governor King, though, wrote that the crops currently in the ground looked promising, although he couldn't say for sure since they were being heavily impacted by the grubs. This was a pest caused by the extremely rich soil, and it was noted that as the land was cleared, it became vulnerable to the harsh winds that plague the island.

The great havoc and destruction which the reduced ration had occasioned among the birds frequenting Mount Pitt had so thinned their numbers, that they were no longer to be depended upon as a resource. The convicts, senseless and improvident, not only destroyed the bird, its young, and its egg, but the hole in which it burrowed; a circumstance that ought most cautiously to have been guarded against; as nothing appeared more likely to make them forsake the island.

The massive chaos and destruction caused by the reduced rations had significantly decreased the bird population at Mount Pitt, making them an unreliable resource. The convicts, reckless and shortsighted, not only killed the birds, their chicks, and their eggs but also destroyed their nesting sites; a situation that should have been carefully avoided, as it was highly likely to drive the birds away from the island.

The stock in the settlement was plentiful, but, from being fed chiefly on sow thistle during the general deficiency of hard food, the animals looked ill, and were as badly tasted. The Pitt, however, took from the island a great quantity of stock; barrow pigs and fowls, pumpkins and other vegetables; for which Captain Manning and his officers paid the owners with many articles of comfort to which they had long been strangers.

The livestock in the settlement was abundant, but since they were mainly fed on sow thistle during the overall shortage of solid food, the animals appeared unhealthy and tasted just as bad. The Pitt, however, brought back a substantial amount of livestock from the island, including barrow pigs, chickens, pumpkins, and other vegetables. Captain Manning and his officers compensated the owners with many items of comfort that they had been without for a long time.

The convicts in general wore a very unhealthy cadaverous appearance, owing, it was supposed, not only to spare diet, but to the fatigue consequent on their traversing the woods to Mount Pitt, by night, for the purpose of procuring some slender addition to their ration, instead of reposing after the labours of the day. They had committed many depredations on the settlers, and one was shot by a person of that description in the act of robbing his farm.

The convicts generally looked very sickly and gaunt, which was believed to be due not only to their meager diet but also to the exhaustion from walking through the woods to Mount Pitt at night to try to get a little extra food, instead of resting after their day's work. They had stolen from the settlers multiple times, and one was shot by a settler while trying to rob his farm.

Governor King, having discovered that the island abounded with that valuable article lime-stone, was building a convenient house for his own residence, and turning his attention to the construction of permanent storehouses, barracks for the military, and other necessary buildings.

Governor King, after finding out that the island was full of valuable limestone, was building a comfortable house for himself and focusing on constructing permanent storage buildings, barracks for the military, and other essential structures.

The weather had been for some time past very bad, much rain having fallen accompanied with storms of wind, thunder, and lightning. In some of these storms the wreck of his Majesty's ship Sirius went to pieces and disappeared, no part of that unfortunate ship being left together, except what was confined by the iron ballast in her bottom.

The weather had been really bad for a while, with a lot of rain and storms featuring wind, thunder, and lightning. During some of these storms, the wreck of His Majesty's ship Sirius broke apart and vanished, with no parts of that unfortunate ship remaining together, except for what was held in place by the iron ballast in its bottom.

On board of the Atlantic came sixty-two persons from Norfolk Island, among whom were several whose terms of transportation had expired; thirteen offenders; and nine of the marine settlers, who had given up the hoe and the spade, returned to this place to embrace once more a life to which they certainly were, from long habit, better adapted than to that of independent settlers. They gave up their estates, and came here to enter as soldiers in the New South Wales corps.'

On board the Atlantic were sixty-two people from Norfolk Island, including several whose transportation terms had ended; thirteen offenders; and nine of the marine settlers, who had put down their tools and returned to embrace a life they were definitely more suited to after so long than that of independent settlers. They abandoned their farms and came here to join the New South Wales corps as soldiers.

Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy-surveyor, arrived in the Atlantic, being sent by Mr. King to state to the governor the situation of the settlers late belonging to the Sirius, whose grounds had, on a careful survey by Mr. Grimes, been found to intersect each other. They had been originally laid down without the assistance of proper instruments, and being situated on the side of the Cascade Stream, which takes several windings in its course, the different allotments, being close together, naturally interfered with each other when they came to be carried back. The settlers themselves saw how disadvantageously they were situated, and how utterly impossible it was for every one to possess a distinct allotment of sixty acres, unless they came to some agreement which had their mutual accommodation in view; but this, with an obstinacy proportioned to their ignorance, they all declined: as their grounds were marked out so would they keep them, not giving an inch in one place, though certain of possessing it with advantage in another. These people proved but indifferent settlers; sailors and soldiers, seldom bred in the habits of industry, but ill brooked the personal labour which they found was required from them day after day, and month after month. Men who from their infancy had been accustomed to have their daily subsistence found them were but ill calculated to procure it by the sweat of their brows, and must very unwillingly find that without great bodily exertions they could not provide it at all. A few months experience convinced them of the truth of these observations, and they grew discontented; as a proof of which they wrote a letter to the judge-advocate, to be submitted to the governor, stating, as a subject of complaint among other grievances, that the officers of the settlement bred stock for their own use, and requesting that they might be directed to discontinue that practice, and purchase stock of them.

Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy surveyor, arrived on the Atlantic, sent by Mr. King to inform the governor about the situation of the settlers who formerly belonged to the Sirius. Mr. Grimes had carefully surveyed their lands and found that they overlapped. The original plots were drawn up without using proper tools, and since they were located along the winding Cascade Stream, the neighboring allotments naturally conflicted with each other when they were mapped out. The settlers realized how poorly their properties were laid out and acknowledged that it was impossible for everyone to have their own separate sixty-acre allotment unless they reached some mutual agreement; however, out of stubbornness linked to their ignorance, they refused. They insisted on keeping their defined plots, unwilling to give up even a small portion, despite knowing that they could benefit from adjustments in other areas. These individuals were not very good settlers; they were mainly sailors and soldiers, not used to the demands of hard work, and they struggled with the daily labor they were required to do month after month. Men who had relied on others for their basic needs from a young age were ill-equipped to earn their living through hard work, and they were reluctant to face the reality that they couldn’t provide for themselves without significant physical effort. A few months of this reality led to growing discontent, which they expressed in a letter to the judge-advocate to be sent to the governor. In the letter, they complained about several issues, including that the settlement officers raised livestock for their own needs, and they requested that these officers be told to stop that practice and instead buy livestock from them.

Very few of the convicts at Norfolk Island whose terms of transportation had expired were found desirous of becoming permanent settlers; the sole object with the major part appearing to be, that of taking ground for the purpose of raising by the sale of the produce a sum sufficient to enable them to pay for their passages to England. The settler to benefit this colony, the bona fide settler, who should be a man of some property, must come from England. He is not to be looked for among discharged soldiers, shipwrecked seamen, or quondam convicts.

Very few of the convicts at Norfolk Island whose sentences had ended wanted to become permanent settlers; most seemed only interested in taking land to grow crops and sell the produce to cover the cost of their passage back to England. The type of settler who would genuinely benefit this colony, the bona fide settler, who should have some property, needs to come from England. You won’t find him among discharged soldiers, shipwrecked sailors, or former convicts.

Governor King finding, after trying every process that came within his knowledge for preparing and dressing the flax-plant, that unless some other means were devised, it never would be brought to the perfection necessary to make the canvas produced from it an object of importance, either as an article of clothing for the convicts or for maritime purposes, proposed to Mr. Ebor Bunker, the master of the William and Ann, who had some thoughts of touching at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, to procure him two natives of that country, if they could be prevailed on to embark with him, and promised him one hundred pounds if he succeeded, hoping from their perfect knowledge of the flax-plant, and the process necessary to manufacture it into cloth, that he might one day render it a valuable and beneficial article to his colony; but Captain Bunker had never returned.

Governor King, after trying every method he knew to prepare and process the flax plant, realized that unless he found a new approach, it would never reach the level of quality needed to make the canvas from it significant, whether as clothing for the convicts or for maritime use. He proposed to Mr. Ebor Bunker, the captain of the William and Ann, who was considering stopping by Dusky Bay in New Zealand, to bring back two locals from that area if they could be convinced to come aboard. He promised Bunker one hundred pounds if he succeeded, hoping that the locals' expertise with the flax plant and the manufacturing process would eventually make it a valuable resource for his colony. However, Captain Bunker never returned.

Norfolk Island had been visited by all the whalers which sailed from this port on that fishery. The Admiral Barrington and Pitt left with Mr. King eleven men and two female convicts, who had secreted themselves at this port on board of those ships.

Norfolk Island had been visited by all the whalers that set sail from this port for that fishery. The Admiral Barrington and Pitt left with Mr. King, eleven men, and two female convicts who had hidden themselves at this port on those ships.

October.] The Britannia, which had quitted the cove on the last day of September, preparatory to her departure on a fishing voyage (a licence for which had been granted by the East India Company for the space of three years), returned to the cove on the third of this month for the purpose of fitting for the Cape of Good Hope, the officers of the New South Wales corps having engaged the master to proceed thither and return on their account with a freight of cattle, and such articles as would tend to the comfort of themselves and the soldiers of the corps, and which were not to be found in the public stores. Mr. Raven, the master, let his ship for the sum of £2000; and eleven shares of £200 each were subscribed to purchase the stock and other articles. The ship was well calculated for bringing cattle, having a very good between-decks; and artificers from the corps were immediately employed to fit her with stalls proper for the reception and accommodation of cows, horses, etc. A quantity of hay was put on board sufficient to lessen considerably the expense of that article at the Cape; and she was ready for sea by the middle of the month. Previous to her departure, on the 7th, the Royal Admiral East-Indiaman, commanded by Captain Essex Henry Bond, anchored in the cove from England, whence she had sailed on the 30th of May last. Her passage from the Cape of Good Hope was the most rapid that had ever been made, being only five weeks and three days from port to port.

October.] The Britannia, which left the cove on the last day of September to get ready for a fishing trip (a license for which was granted by the East India Company for three years), returned to the cove on the third of this month to prepare for a journey to the Cape of Good Hope. The officers of the New South Wales corps had hired the captain to go there and bring back cattle and other items that would help both them and the soldiers, which weren’t available in public stores. Mr. Raven, the captain, rented out his ship for £2000, and eleven shares of £200 each were contributed to buy stock and other goods. The ship was well-suited for transporting cattle since it had a good space below decks, and craftsmen from the corps were quickly brought in to fit her with stalls for the accommodation of cows, horses, etc. A sufficient amount of hay was loaded onto her to significantly reduce costs for that item at the Cape, and she was ready to set sail by the middle of the month. Before her departure, on the 7th, the Royal Admiral East-Indiaman, commanded by Captain Essex Henry Bond, anchored in the cove after arriving from England, having set sail on May 30th. Her journey from the Cape of Good Hope was the fastest ever recorded, taking only five weeks and three days from port to port.

On board of the Royal Admiral came stores and provisions for the colony; one sergeant, one corporal, and nineteen privates, belonging to the New South Wales corps; a person to be employed in the cultivation of the country; another as a master miller; and a third as a master carpenter; together with two hundred and eighty-nine male and forty-seven female convicts. She brought in with her a fever, which had been much abated by the extreme attention paid by Captain Bond and his officers to cleanliness, the great preservative of health on board of ships, and to providing those who were ill with comforts and necessaries beyond what were allowed for their use during the passage. Of three hundred male convicts which she received on board, ten only died, and one made his escape from the hospital at False Bay; in return for whom, however, Captain Bond brought on with him Thomas Watling, a male convict, who found means to get on shore from the Pitt when at that port in December last, and who had been confined by the Dutch at the Cape town from her departure until this opportunity offered of sending him hither.

On the Royal Admiral, they brought supplies and provisions for the colony; one sergeant, one corporal, and nineteen privates from the New South Wales corps; a person to work on farming the land; another as a master miller; and a third as a master carpenter; along with two hundred and eighty-nine male and forty-seven female convicts. The ship also arrived with a fever, which was largely reduced thanks to Captain Bond and his officers' strict attention to cleanliness, the main way to stay healthy on ships, and by giving those who were sick extra comforts and necessities beyond what was typically provided during the journey. Of the three hundred male convicts taken on board, only ten died, and one managed to escape from the hospital at False Bay; however, in exchange, Captain Bond brought along Thomas Watling, a male convict who found a way to get on shore from the Pitt when it was in that port last December, and who had been held by the Dutch in Cape Town from the time of her departure until this chance to send him here.

We had the satisfaction of hearing that the Supply armed tender made good her passage to England in somewhat less than five months, arriving at Plymouth on the 21st of April last. It was, however, matter of much concern to all who were acquainted with him, to learn at the same time, that Captain Hunter, who sailed from this port in March 1791, in the Dutch snow Waaksamheyd, and who had anxiously desired to make a speedy passage, had been thirteen months in that vessel striving to reach England, where he at last let go his anchor a day after the termination of Lieutenant Ball's more successful voyage in the Supply, arriving at Spithead on the evening of the 22nd of April last. His Majesty's ship Gorgon had been at the Cape of Good Hope, but had not arrived in England when the Royal Admiral left that country.

We were pleased to hear that the Supply armed tender successfully made its journey to England in just under five months, arriving in Plymouth on April 21st. However, it was a significant concern for everyone who knew him to learn at the same time that Captain Hunter, who left this port in March 1791 aboard the Dutch snow Waaksamheyd, and who had hoped for a swift voyage, spent thirteen months on that ship trying to reach England. He finally dropped anchor a day after Lieutenant Ball completed his more successful journey on the Supply, arriving at Spithead on the evening of April 22nd. His Majesty's ship Gorgon had been at the Cape of Good Hope but had not returned to England by the time the Royal Admiral departed from that country.

We were also informed, that the Kitty transport had sailed with provisions and a few convicts from England some weeks before the Royal Admiral; and Captain Bond left at False Bay an American brig, freighted on speculation with provisions for this colony, and whose master intended putting to sea immediately after him.

We were also told that the Kitty transport had set sail with supplies and a few convicts from England a few weeks before the Royal Admiral; and Captain Bond left an American brig at False Bay, loaded with supplies for this colony, and the captain planned to head out to sea right after him.

The sick, to the number of eighty, were all immediately disembarked from the Indiaman; the remainder of her convicts were sent up to be employed at Parramatta and the adjoining settlement. At these places was to be performed the great labour of clearing and cultivating the country; and thither the governor judged it necessary at once to send such convicts as should arrive in future, without permitting them to disembark at Sydney, which town (from the circumstance of its being the only place where shipping anchored) possessed all the evils and allurements of a sea port of some standing, and from which, if once they got into huts, they would be with difficulty removed when wanted; they pleaded the acquirement of comforts, of which, in fact, it would be painful though absolutely necessary to deprive them. At once to do away therefore the possibility of any attachment to this part of the colony, the governor gave directions for their being immediately sent from the ship to the place of their future residence and employment; and, having no other thoughts, they went with cheerfulness.

The sick, a total of eighty, were all immediately taken off the Indiaman; the rest of the convicts were sent up to work at Parramatta and the nearby settlement. At these locations, the main task of clearing and farming the land was to be done; and the governor decided it was necessary to send any future arriving convicts directly there, without letting them disembark in Sydney. This town, being the only port where ships docked, had all the issues and temptations of a well-established sea port, and if they settled into huts there, it would be hard to move them when needed. They argued about the comforts they would gain, which, in reality, it would be painful but absolutely necessary to take away from them. To eliminate any chance of them becoming attached to this part of the colony, the governor ordered that they be sent straight from the ship to their future home and work; with no other thoughts, they went willingly.

There arrived in the Royal Admiral as a superintendant charged with the care of the convicts, Mr. Richard Alley, who formerly belonged to the Lady Juliana transport, in quality of surgeon, in the memorable voyage of that ship to this colony; a voyage that could never be thought on by an inhabitant of it without exciting a most painful sensation. This gentleman went to England in the snow with Captain Hunter, whither the comforts of long voyages seemed to accompany him. Immediately on his arrival there, he was appointed by the commissioners of the navy to come out in the Royal Admiral as surgeon and superintendant of the convicts embarked in that ship, with an allowance of twelve shillings and sixpence per diem until his arrival in England, exclusive of his half pay as surgeon of the navy.

Mr. Richard Alley came on the Royal Admiral as a superintendent responsible for the care of the convicts. He previously worked on the Lady Juliana transport as a surgeon during that ship's notable voyage to this colony—a voyage that brings painful memories to anyone who lives here. After that trip, he returned to England on the snow with Captain Hunter, where the comforts of long journeys seemed to follow him. As soon as he arrived, the navy commissioners appointed him to join the Royal Admiral as the surgeon and superintendent of the convicts on board, with a daily allowance of twelve shillings and sixpence per diem until he got back to England, in addition to his half pay as a navy surgeon.

It had always been an object of the first consequence, that the people employed about the stores, if not free, should at least have been so situated as to have found it their interest to resist temptation. This had never hitherto been accomplished; capital and other exemplary punishments did not effect it; the stores were constantly robbed, although carefully watched, and as well secured as bolts, locks, and iron fastenings could make them. The governor therefore now adopted a plan which was suggested to him; and, discharging all the convicts employed at the provision-store, replaced them by others, to whom he promised absolute emancipation at the end of a certain number of years, to be computed from the dates of their respective arrivals in this country.

It had always been a top priority that the people working in the stores, if not free, should at least be in a position where it was in their best interest to resist temptation. This had never been achieved before; punishments like fines and other severe measures didn’t solve the issue. The stores were frequently robbed, even though they were closely monitored and as secure as bolts, locks, and iron fittings could make them. Therefore, the governor decided to try a new approach that had been suggested to him. He let go of all the convicts working at the provision store and replaced them with others, to whom he promised complete freedom after a certain number of years, starting from their arrival dates in this country.

If any thing could produce the integrity so much to be desired, this measure seemed the best calculated for the purpose; an interest was created superior to any reward that could have been held out, a certain salary, an increase of ration, a greater proportion of clothing, or even emancipation itself, if given at the time. To those who had no other prospect but that of passing their lives in this country, how cheering, how grateful must have been the hope of returning to their families at no very distant period, if not prevented by their own misconduct! There were two in this situation among those placed at the stores, Samuel Burt and William Sutton, both of whom had conducted themselves with the greatest propriety since their conviction, and who beheld with joy the probability that appeared of their being again considered and ranked in the class of honest men and good members of society; estimations that depended wholly upon themselves.

If anything could create the integrity so desperately needed, this measure seemed to be the best option for achieving that. An interest was created that was more valuable than any reward that could have been offered—like a steady salary, extra rations, more clothing, or even freedom itself if it had been given at that time. For those who had no other hope but to spend their lives in this country, how uplifting and thankful must the idea of returning to their families soon have been, as long as they didn’t mess it up themselves! There were two such individuals among those assigned to the stores, Samuel Burt and William Sutton, both of whom had acted with the utmost good behavior since their conviction. They looked forward with joy to the possibility of being recognized and classified again as honest men and good members of society; their worthiness depended entirely on their own actions.

As a store-keeper was a person on whom much dependence must necessarily be placed, it being his duty to be constantly present whenever the stores were opened, and with a vigilant eye to observe the conduct of the inferior servants, at the strong recommendation of the officers under whom he had served, Sergeant Thomas Smyth was discharged from the marine detachment, and placed upon the list of superintendants of convicts as a storekeeper. This appointment gave general satisfaction; and the commissary now felt himself, under all these arrangements, more at ease respecting the safety of the stores and provisions under his charge.

As a storekeeper was someone who was heavily relied upon, responsible for being present whenever the stores were open and for keeping a close watch on the behavior of the lower-ranking staff, Sergeant Thomas Smyth was discharged from the marine detachment at the strong recommendation of the officers he had served under, and was added to the list of convict superintendents as a storekeeper. This appointment was well-received, and the commissary now felt more at ease regarding the safety of the stores and provisions he was responsible for.

On the night of the 10th a daring burglary was committed. Mr. Raven, the master of the Britannia, occupied a hut on shore, which was broken open and entered about midnight, and from the room in which he was lying asleep, and close to his bedside, his watch and a pair of knee-buckles were stolen; a box was forced open, in which was a valuable timepiece and some money belonging to Mr. Raven, who, fortunately waking in the very moment that the thief was taking it out at the door, prevented his carrying it off. Assistance from the guard came immediately, but too late--the man had got off unseen. In a day or two afterwards, however, Charles Williams, a settler, gave information that a convict named Richard Sutton, the morning after the burglary, had told him that he had stolen and secured the property, which he estimated at sixty pounds, and which he offered to put into his possession for the purpose of sale, first binding him by a horrid ceremony* and oath not to betray him. Williams, on receiving the watch, which proved a metal one, worth only about ten pounds, and the disproportion of which to the value he had expected, probably had induced him to make the discovery, immediately caused him to be taken into custody, and delivered the property to a magistrate, giving at the same time an account how he came by them. All these circumstances were produced in evidence before a criminal court; but the prisoner, proving an alibi that was satisfactory to the court, was acquitted. With the evidence that he produced in his defence it was impossible to convict him; but the court and the auditors were in their consciences persuaded that the prisoner had committed the burglary and theft, and that he intended to have employed Williams to dispose of the property; which the latter had undertaken, and would have performed, had the watch proved to have been a timepiece which the prisoner imagined he had been lucky enough to secure. Williams, had he been put to prove where he was at the very time the house was entered, had people ready to depose that he was on his way by water to his farm near Parramatta. This man had formerly been remarkable for propriety of conduct; but, after he became a settler, gave himself up to idleness and dissipation, and went away from the court in which he had been giving his testimony, much degraded in the opinion of every man who heard him.

On the night of the 10th, a bold burglary took place. Mr. Raven, the captain of the Britannia, was staying in a hut on the shore that was broken into around midnight. While he was asleep in his room, right next to his bed, his watch and a pair of knee-buckles were stolen. A box containing a valuable timepiece and some money belonging to Mr. Raven was also forced open. Thankfully, Mr. Raven woke just as the thief was taking it out the door, which stopped him from getting away with it. Help from the guards arrived quickly, but it was too late—the thief had escaped without being seen. A couple of days later, though, a settler named Charles Williams reported that a convict named Richard Sutton had told him the morning after the burglary that he had stolen and hidden the property, which he claimed was worth sixty pounds, and that he wanted to give it to Williams for sale. Sutton made Williams swear through a horrific ceremony and oath not to betray him. When Williams received the watch— which turned out to be a metal one worth only about ten pounds— he realized the significant difference from what he had expected. This likely led him to report the crime. He quickly had Sutton arrested and turned over the property to a magistrate, explaining how he got it. All of this evidence was presented in a criminal court, but the defendant was able to provide an alibi that satisfied the court, resulting in his acquittal. The evidence he offered in his defense made it impossible to convict him. However, both the court and those present believed in their hearts that the defendant had committed the burglary and theft, intending to have Williams help him sell the property, which Williams would have done if the watch had turned out to be the valuable timepiece the defendant thought he had stolen. If Williams had been asked to prove his whereabouts at the exact time of the break-in, he had witnesses ready to testify that he was traveling by water to his farm near Parramatta. Williams had previously been known for his good behavior, but after becoming a settler, he fell into laziness and debauchery, leaving the court where he had testified with his reputation significantly tarnished in the eyes of everyone who heard him.

[* They cut each other on the cheek with their knives.]

[* They each used their knives to cut their cheeks.]

The Britannia sailed on the 24th for the Cape of Good Hope, Mr. Raven taking with him Governor Phillip's dispatches for England, in which was contained a specific demand for twelve months provisions for the colony, and the wishes as well of those whom he considered as his employers, as of those who were not, for the safe and speedy execution of his commission; as his return to the colony would introduce many articles of comfort which were not to be found in the public stores among the articles issued by government.

The Britannia departed on the 24th for the Cape of Good Hope, with Mr. Raven carrying Governor Phillip's letters for England, which included a clear request for twelve months’ worth of supplies for the colony, along with the wishes of both his supporters and those he didn’t consider as such, for the safe and quick completion of his mission; since his return to the colony would bring many comforts that weren't available in the public stores among the government-issued supplies.

At Sydney and at Parramatta shops were opened for the sale of the articles of private trade brought out in the Royal Admiral. A licence was given for the sale of porter; but, under the cover of this, spirits found their way among the people, and much intoxication was the consequence. Several of the settlers, breaking out from the restraint to which they had been subject, conducted themselves with the greatest impropriety, beating their wives, destroying their stock, trampling on and injuring their crops in the ground, and destroying each other's property. One woman, having claimed the protection of the magistrates, the party complained of, a settler, was bound over to the good behaviour for two years, himself in twenty pounds, and to find two sureties in ten pounds each. Another settler was at the same time set an hour in the stocks for drunkenness. The indulgence which was intended by the governor for their benefit was most shamefully abused; and what he suffered them to purchase with a view to their future comfort, was retailed among themselves at a scandalous profit; several of the settlers houses being at this time literally nothing else but porter-houses, where rioting and drunkenness prevailed as long as the means remained. It was much to be regretted that these people were so blind to their own advantage, most of them sacrificing to the dissipation of the moment what would have afforded them much comfort and convenience, if reserved for refreshment after the fatigue of the day.

At Sydney and Parramatta, shops opened to sell the private goods brought in by the Royal Admiral. A license was granted for selling porter, but this was misused, and spirits made their way among the people, leading to widespread intoxication. Several settlers, breaking free from the restrictions they had faced, acted very inappropriately, beating their wives, damaging their livestock, trampling on their crops, and destroying each

The only addition made to the weekly ration in consequence of the arrival of the Royal Admiral was an allowance of six ounces of oil to each person; a large quantity, nine thousand two hundred and seventy-eight gallons, having been put on board that ship and the Kitty transport, to be issued in lieu of butter; as an equivalent for which it certainly would have answered well, had it arrived in the state in which it was reported to have been put on board; but it grew rancid on the passage, and was in general made more use of to burn as a substitute for candles, than for any other purposes to which oil might have been applied.

The only addition to the weekly ration following the arrival of the Royal Admiral was an allowance of six ounces of oil per person. A large amount, nine thousand two hundred and seventy-eight gallons, had been loaded onto that ship and the Kitty transport to replace butter. It would have worked well as a substitute if it had arrived in the condition it was supposed to be in, but it went rotten on the way and was mostly used for burning as a candle substitute rather than for any of the other intended uses of oil.

Toward the latter end of the month, the convicts received a general serving of clothing, and other necessary articles. To each male were issued two frocks made of coarse and unsubstantial osnaburgs, in which there were seldom found more than three weeks wear; two pairs of trousers made of the same slight materials as the frocks, and open to the same observation as to wear; one pair of yarn stockings; one hat; one pair of shoes; one pound of soap; three needles; a quarter of a pound of thread, and one comb.

Toward the end of the month, the prisoners got a general supply of clothing and other essentials. Each guy received two coats made of coarse and flimsy fabric, which usually lasted no more than three weeks; two pairs of pants made from the same thin material as the coats, which had the same issue with wear; one pair of wool socks; one hat; one pair of shoes; one pound of soap; three needles; a quarter of a pound of thread, and one comb.

The females received each one cloth petticoat; one coarse shift; one pair of shoes; one pair of yarn stockings; one pound of soap; a quarter of a pound of thread; two ounces of pins; six needles; one thimble, and one pair of scissors.

The women got one cloth petticoat each; one rough shift; one pair of shoes; one pair of yarn stockings; one pound of soap; a quarter pound of thread; two ounces of pins; six needles; one thimble, and one pair of scissors.

These articles were supplied by commission; and Mr. Davison, the person employed by government, was limited in the price of each article, which was fixed too low to admit of his furnishing them of the quality absolutely necessary for people who were to labour in this country. The osnaburgs in particular had always been complained of, for it was a fact, that the frocks and trousers made of them were oftener known to have been worn out within a fortnight, than to have lasted three weeks.

These articles were provided on commission, and Mr. Davison, the government employee, was restricted by the low price set for each item, which didn't allow him to supply the quality needed for people working in this country. The osnaburgs, in particular, were often criticized because, in reality, the frocks and trousers made from them were more likely to wear out within two weeks than to last three.

The month closed with a circumstance that excited no small degree of concern in the settlement: Governor Phillip signified a determination of quitting his government, and returning to England in the Atlantic. To this he was induced by perceiving that his health hourly grew worse, and hoping that a change of air might contribute to his recovery. His Excellency had the satisfaction, at the moment that he came to this resolution, of seeing the public grounds wear every appearance of a productive harvest. At Toongabbie, forty-two acres of wheat, sown about the middle of last March, looked as promising as could be wished; the remainder of the wheat, from being sown six weeks later, did not look so fine and abundant, but still held out hopes of an ample return. The Indian corn was all got into the ground, and such of it as was up looked remarkably well.

The month ended with a situation that caused a lot of concern in the settlement: Governor Phillip announced his decision to leave his position and return to England on the Atlantic. He was motivated by the fact that his health was getting worse every day and he hoped that a change of scenery could help him recover. At the time he made this decision, he was pleased to see that the public lands showed every sign of a successful harvest. At Toongabbie, forty-two acres of wheat, planted around mid-March, looked as promising as anyone could hope for; the rest of the wheat, which was planted six weeks later, didn’t seem quite as impressive but still offered hopes of a good yield. The Indian corn had all been planted, and the crops that had sprouted looked really healthy.

CHAPTER XIX

A ship from America arrives
Part of its cargo bought
George Barrington and others are conditionally freed
The Royal Admiral sets sail
The Kitty Transport arrives
£1001 received by it
A hospital built at Parramatta
Harvest starts at Toongabbie
Rations increased
The Philadelphia departs for Norfolk Island
Status of the farming before the governor left
Settlers
Governor Phillip departs for England
Rules set by the Lieutenant Governor
The Hope, an American ship, arrives
Its cargo purchased for the colony
The Chesterfield whaler arrives
Land granted to an officer
Extreme heat and fire
Deaths in 1792
Prices of Stock, etc.

November.] On the 1st of November, about eleven o'clock at night, the Philadelphia brigantine, Mr. Thomas Patrickson master, anchored in the cove from Philadelphia. Lieutenant-governor King, on his passage to this country in the Gorgon in the month of July 1791, had seen Mr. Patrickson at the Cape of Good Hope, and learning at that time from the Lady Juliana and Neptune transports, which had just arrived there from China, that the colony was in great distress for provisions, suggested to him the advantage that might attend his bringing a cargo to this country on speculation. On this hint Captain Patrickson went to England, and thence to Philadelphia, from which place he sailed the beginning of last April with a cargo consisting chiefly of American beef, wine, rum, gin, some tobacco, pitch, and tar. He sailed from Philadelphia with thirteen hands; but, in some very bad weather which he met with after leaving the African shore, his second mate was washed overboard and lost, it blowing too hard to attempt saving him.

November.] On November 1st, around eleven at night, the Philadelphia brigantine, captained by Mr. Thomas Patrickson, anchored in the cove after arriving from Philadelphia. Lieutenant-governor King had encountered Mr. Patrickson at the Cape of Good Hope during his trip to this country on the Gorgon in July 1791. He learned from the Lady Juliana and Neptune transports, which had just come from China, that the colony was facing a serious food shortage. King suggested it would be beneficial for Patrickson to bring a cargo here as a business opportunity. Acting on this advice, Captain Patrickson traveled to England and then to Philadelphia, where he set sail at the beginning of last April with a cargo mainly consisting of American beef, wine, rum, gin, some tobacco, pitch, and tar. He left Philadelphia with thirteen crew members, but in very rough weather after departing from the African coast, his second mate was washed overboard and lost because it was too stormy to try to save him.

The governor directed the commissary to purchase such part of the Philadelphia's cargo as he thought was immediately wanting in the colony; and five hundred and sixty-nine barrels of American cured beef, each barrel containing one hundred and ninety-three pounds, and twenty-seven barrels of pitch and tar, were taken into store; the expense of which amounted to £2829 lls.

The governor instructed the commissary to buy whatever part of the Philadelphia's cargo he believed was urgently needed in the colony; and five hundred sixty-nine barrels of American cured beef, each barrel weighing one hundred ninety-three pounds, along with twenty-seven barrels of pitch and tar, were put into storage; the total cost was £2829 11s.

Notwithstanding the great length of time Captain Patrickson had been on his voyage (from the beginning of April to November) his speculation did not prove very disadvantageous to him. A great part of his cargo, that was not taken by government, was disposed of among the officers and others of the settlement; and the governor hired his vessel to take provisions to Norfolk Island, giving him £150 for the run. Captain Patrickson had formed some expectation of disposing of his vessel in this country; but the governor, having received intimation that the Kitty might be detained in the service as long as he found it necessary after her arrival, did not judge it expedient to purchase the vessel.

Despite the long duration of Captain Patrickson's voyage (from the beginning of April to November), his venture didn't turn out too poorly for him. A significant portion of his cargo that the government didn’t seize was sold to the officers and others in the settlement; additionally, the governor chartered his ship to transport supplies to Norfolk Island, paying him £150 for the trip. Captain Patrickson had hoped to sell his vessel in this country; however, the governor, having been informed that the Kitty could be kept in service for as long as he deemed necessary after its arrival, decided it wasn't wise to buy the ship.

On the 3rd of the month three warrants of emancipation passed the seal of the territory: one to John Trace, a convict who came out in the first fleet; having but three months of his term of transportation remaining, that portion of it was given up to him, that he might become a settler. The second was granted to Thomas Restil (alias Crowder) on the recommendation of the lieutenant-governor of Norfolk Island, on condition that he should not return to England during the term of his natural life, his sentence of transportation being durante vitae. The third warrant was made out in favour of one who whatever might have been his conduct when at large in society, had here not only demeaned himself with the strictest propriety, but had rendered essential services to the colony--George Barrington. He came out in the Active; on his arrival the governor employed him at Toongabbie, and in a situation which was likely to attract the envy and hatred of the convicts, in proportion as he might be vigilant and inflexible. He was first placed as a subordinate, and shortly after as a principal watchman; in which situation he was diligent, sober, and impartial; and had rendered himself so eminently serviceable, that the governor resolved to draw him from the line of convicts; and, with the instrument of his emancipation, he received a grant of thirty acres of land in an eligible situation near Parramatta.* Here was not only a reward for past good conduct, but an incitement to a continuance of it; and Barrington found himself, through the governor's liberality, though not so absolutely free as to return to England at his own pleasure, yet enjoying the immunities of a free man, a settler, and a civil officer, in whose integrity much confidence was placed.

On the 3rd of the month, three emancipation warrants were issued by the territory: one for John Trace, a convict who arrived on the first fleet; with just three months left on his sentence, that time was waived to allow him to become a settler. The second was granted to Thomas Restil (also known as Crowder) on the recommendation of the lieutenant-governor of Norfolk Island, with the condition that he would not return to England for the rest of his natural life, as his sentence was durante vitae. The third warrant was issued for someone who, despite his past behavior in society, had conducted himself with the utmost propriety here and had provided essential services to the colony—George Barrington. He came over on the Active; upon arrival, the governor employed him at Toongabbie in a role that was likely to attract envy and resentment from the convicts, depending on how vigilant and strict he was. Initially, he served as a subordinate and soon became the main watchman; in that role, he was hard-working, sober, and fair. He proved to be so valuable that the governor decided to remove him from the convict ranks; along with his emancipation document, he received a grant of thirty acres of land in a desirable location near Parramatta.* This was not just a reward for his past good behavior, but also a motivation to keep it up; Barrington found himself, thanks to the governor’s generosity, although not completely free to return to England at will, able to enjoy the rights of a free man, a settler, and a civil officer in whom a lot of trust was placed.

[* He was afterwards sworn in as a peace officer.]

[* He was later sworn in as a peace officer.]

On the 13th the Royal Admiral sailed for Canton. Of the private speculation brought out in this ship, they sold at this place and at Parramatta to the amount of £3600 and left articles to be sold on commission to the amount of £750 more.

On the 13th, the Royal Admiral set sail for Canton. The private goods brought in this ship were sold here and at Parramatta for a total of £3600, and they left items to be sold on commission worth an additional £750.

Captain Bond was obliged to leave behind him one of his quartermasters and six sailors, who ran away from the ship. The quartermaster had served in the same capacity on board of the Sirius, and immediately after his arrival in England (in the snow) engaged himself with Captain Bond for the whole of the voyage; but a few days before the departure of the ship from this port, he found means to leave her, and, assisted by some of the settlers, concealed himself in the woods until concealment was no longer necessary. On giving himself up, he entered on board the Atlantic; but on his declaring that he did not intend returning to England, the governor ordered him into confinement. The sailors were put into one of the longboats, to be employed between this place and Parramatta, until they could be put on board a ship that might convey them hence.

Captain Bond had to leave one of his quartermasters and six sailors behind when they deserted the ship. The quartermaster had previously served in the same role on the Sirius, and after returning to England (in the snow), he signed on with Captain Bond for the entire voyage. However, just a few days before the ship was set to leave port, he found a way to escape and, with help from some settlers, hid in the woods until it was safe to come out. When he surrendered, he boarded the Atlantic, but after he said he didn’t plan to go back to England, the governor had him imprisoned. The sailors were put into one of the longboats to work between this location and Parramatta until they could be transferred to a ship that would take them away.

It was never desirable that seamen should receive encouragement to run from their ships; they became public nuisances here; the masters of such ships would find themselves obliged to procure convicts at any rate to supply their places; indeed, so many might be shipped or secreted on board, as might render the safety of the vessel very precarious; and as the governor determined to represent the conduct of any master who carried away convicts without his approbation, so he resolved never to deprive them of their seamen. Under this idea, a hut, in which a seaman from the Royal Admiral was found concealed, was pulled down, and two convicts who had been secreted on board that ship were sent up to Toongabbie, as a punishment, as well as to be out of the way of another attempt.

It was never a good idea for sailors to be encouraged to abandon their ships; they became a public nuisance here. The captains of those ships would be forced to hire convicts in any case to fill their roles; in fact, so many could be smuggled or hidden on board that it could seriously jeopardize the safety of the vessel. The governor decided to report any captain who took convicts without his approval, and he was also determined never to deprive them of their crew. With that in mind, a hut where a sailor from the Royal Admiral was found hiding was torn down, and two convicts who had been hidden on that ship were sent up to Toongabbie as punishment and to prevent any further attempts.

On the 18th the Kitty transport anchored in the cove from England, after a circuitous passage of thirty-three weeks, round by the Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope. She twice sailed from England. On her first departure, which was in March last, she had on board thirty female and ten male convicts; but being obliged to put back to Spithead, to stop a leak which she sprung in her raft port, eight of her ten male convicts found means to make their escape. This was an unfortunate accident; for they had been particularly selected as men who might be useful in the colony. Of the two who did remain, the one was a brick-maker and the other a joiner.

On the 18th, the Kitty transport arrived in the cove from England after a long journey of thirty-three weeks, going around by Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope. She set sail from England twice. On her first trip in March, she had thirty female and ten male convicts on board; however, she had to return to Spithead to fix a leak that occurred in her raft port, which allowed eight of the ten male convicts to escape. This was an unfortunate incident since they were specifically chosen as men who could be helpful in the colony. Of the two who stayed, one was a brick-maker and the other was a joiner.

When her cargo was landing, it was found to have suffered considerably by the bad weather she had experienced; the flour in particular, an article which could at no time bear any diminution in this country, was much damaged. The convicts had for a long time been nearly as much distressed for utensils to dress their provisions, as they had been for provisions; and we had now the mortification to find, that of the small supply of iron pots which had been put on board, a great part were either broken or cracked, having been literally stowed among the provision casks in the hold.

When her cargo was unloaded, it was discovered that it had been badly affected by the harsh weather she had faced; the flour especially, a staple that could not afford to be diminished in this country, was heavily damaged. The convicts had been struggling for a long time, not just for food but also for cooking utensils; now, we were frustrated to find that a large portion of the few iron pots that had been loaded on board were either broken or cracked, as they had been packed tightly among the food barrels in the hold.

There arrived in this ship two chests, containing three thousand eight hundred and seventy ounces of silver, in dollars, amounting to £1001. This remittance was sent out for the purpose of paying such sums as were due to the different artificers who had been employed in this country. It was also applied to the payment of the wages due to the superintendants, who had experienced much inconvenience from not receiving their salaries here; and indeed the want of public money had been very much felt by every one in the colony. When the marines, who became settlers before and at the relief of the detachment, were discharged for that purpose, they would have suffered great difficulties from the want of public money to pay what was due to them, had not the commissary taken their respective powers of attorney, and given them notes on himself, payable either in cash, or in articles which might be the means of rendering them comfortable, and of which he had procured a large supply from Calcutta. These notes passed through various hands in traffic among the people of the description they were intended to serve, and became a species of currency which was found very convenient to them.

There were two chests on this ship, holding three thousand eight hundred and seventy ounces of silver, which totaled £1001. This shipment was sent to pay the various craftsmen who had worked in this country. It was also used to pay the salaries owed to the supervisors, who had faced a lot of issues due to not receiving their pay here; in fact, the lack of public funds had been felt by everyone in the colony. When the marines, who became settlers before and during the relief of the detachment, were discharged for this reason, they would have faced significant difficulties due to the lack of public funds to pay what they were owed, if the commissary hadn't taken their powers of attorney and given them notes on himself, payable in cash or in items that could make their lives more comfortable, which he had obtained in large quantities from Calcutta. These notes circulated among people for trade and became a type of currency that was very useful to them.

The female convicts who arrived in the Kitty, twenty-seven in number, were immediately sent up to Parramatta.

The twenty-seven female convicts who arrived on the Kitty were quickly taken up to Parramatta.

Government had put on board the Kitty a naval agent, Lieutenant Daniel Woodriff, for the purpose of seeing that no unnecessary delays were made in the voyage, and that the convicts on board were not oppressed by the master or his people. This officer, on his arrival, stated to the governor his opinion that the master had not made the best of his way, and that he had remained longer in the port of Rio de Janeiro than there could possibly be occasion for. He likewise stated several disagreements which had occurred between him and the master, and in which the latter seemed to think very lightly of the authority of a naval agent on board his ship. There was also on board this ship, on the part of the crown, a medical gentleman who was appointed for the express purpose of attending to such convicts as might be ill during the voyage; so extremely solicitous were the members of Administration to guard against the evils which had befallen the convicts in former passages to this country.

The government had sent a naval agent, Lieutenant Daniel Woodriff, aboard the Kitty to ensure that there were no unnecessary delays during the voyage and that the convicts on the ship weren't mistreated by the captain or his crew. When he arrived, Woodriff told the governor that the captain had not been efficient in his navigation and had stayed in the port of Rio de Janeiro longer than necessary. He also mentioned several conflicts between himself and the captain, who appeared to dismiss the authority of a naval agent on his ship. Additionally, there was a medical officer on board appointed by the crown specifically to care for any convicts who might become ill during the voyage, reflecting the Administration's strong desire to prevent the problems that had plagued convicts on previous trips to this country.

At Parramatta a brick hospital, consisting of two wards, was finished this month; and the sick were immediately removed into it. The spot chosen for this building was at some distance from the principal street of the town, and convenient to the water; and, to prevent any improper communication with the other convicts, a space was to be inclosed and paled in round the hospital, in which the sick would have every necessary benefit from air and exercise.

At Parramatta, a brick hospital with two wards was completed this month, and the sick were moved in right away. The location selected for this building was a bit away from the main street of the town and close to the water. To prevent any inappropriate contact with the other convicts, a fenced area was planned around the hospital, where the sick would have access to fresh air and exercise.

At the other settlement they had begun to reap the wheat which was sown in April last; and for want of a granary at that place it was put into stacks. From not being immediately thrashed out, there was no knowing with certainty what the produce of it was; but it had every appearance of turning out well. The ear was long and full, and the straw remarkably good.

At the other settlement, they had started to harvest the wheat that was planted last April. Since there was no granary there, they stacked it instead. Because they hadn't threshed it right away, they couldn't say for sure what the yield was, but it looked promising. The ears were long and full, and the straw was notably good.

December.] On the 3rd of this month, the governor, as one of his last acts in the settlement, ordered one pound of flour to be added to the weekly ration, which, by means of this addition, stood on his departure at 3 pounds of flour, 5 pounds of rice, 4 pounds of pork or 7 pounds of beef, 3 pounds of dholl, and 6 ounces of oil.

December.] On the 3rd of this month, the governor, as one of his final actions in the settlement, ordered that one pound of flour be added to the weekly ration, which, with this addition, was at his departure set at 3 pounds of flour, 5 pounds of rice, 4 pounds of pork or 7 pounds of beef, 3 pounds of dholl, and 6 ounces of oil.

On the 7th the Philadelphia sailed for Norfolk Island, having on board for that settlement Mr. Grimes, the deputy surveyor; Mr. Jamieson who was to superintend the convicts employed there in cultivations; Mr. Peat, the master-carpenter (there being a person* in that situation here of much ability); a convict who came out in the Royal Admiral, to be employed as a master-tailor; two Convicts sawyers, and one convict carpenter, the same who came out with his family in the Kitty; together with some provisions and stores. His excellency had always attended to this little colony with a parental care; often declaring, that from the peculiarity of its situation he would rather that want should be felt in his own government than in that dependency; and as they would be generally eight or ten weeks later than this colony in receiving their supplies, by reason of the time which the ships necessarily required to refit after coming in from sea, he purposed furnishing them with a proportion of provisions for three months longer than the provisions in store at this place would last: and his excellency took leave of that settlement, by completing, as fully as he was able, this design.

On the 7th, the Philadelphia set sail for Norfolk Island, carrying Mr. Grimes, the deputy surveyor; Mr. Jamieson, who was in charge of overseeing the convicts working on the farms there; Mr. Peat, the master carpenter (as there was a highly skilled person in that role here); a convict from the Royal Admiral, who was being employed as a master tailor; two convict sawyers, and one convict carpenter, the same one who came with his family on the Kitty; along with some provisions and supplies. His excellency had always looked after this small colony with a nurturing concern, often stating that due to its unique situation, he would prefer to experience shortages in his own government rather than let it occur in that settlement. Since they would generally receive their supplies eight to ten weeks later than this colony because of the time required for ships to refit after returning from sea, he planned to provide them with enough provisions for three months beyond what was currently available here. His excellency bid farewell to that settlement by fulfilling this plan as much as he could.

[* Mr. Thomas Livingstone, at a salary of £50 per annum.]

[* Mr. Thomas Livingstone, with an annual salary of £50.]

He was now about taking leave of his own government. The accommodations for his excellency and the officers who were going home in the Atlantic being completed, the detachment of marines under the command of Lieutenant Poulden embarked on the 5th, and at six o'clock in the evening of Monday the 10th Governor Phillip quitted the charge with which he had been entrusted by his Sovereign, and in the execution of which he had manifested a zeal and perseverance that alone could have enabled him to surmount the natural and artificial obstacles which the country and its inhabitants had thrown in his way.

He was now getting ready to leave his own government. The accommodations for his excellency and the officers who were returning home on the Atlantic were completed, and the detachment of marines under Lieutenant Poulden boarded on the 5th. At six o'clock in the evening on Monday the 10th, Governor Phillip stepped down from the responsibility entrusted to him by his Sovereign, demonstrating a dedication and determination that only he could have shown to overcome the natural and man-made challenges posed by the country and its people.

The colony had now been established within a few weeks of five years; and a review of what had been done in cultivation under his excellency's direction in that time cannot more properly be introduced than at the close of his government.

The colony had now been established for almost five years, and a look back at what had been achieved in farming under his excellency's direction during that time is best presented at the end of his administration.

Previous to the sailing of the Britannia on the 24th of last October, an accurate survey of the whole ground in cultivation, both on account of the crown, and in the possession of individuals, was taken by the surveyor-general, and transmitted to England by that ship; and from the return which he then made, the following particulars were extracted:

Before the Britannia set sail on October 24th of last year, the surveyor-general conducted a detailed survey of all the farmland in cultivation, both owned by the crown and by individuals, and sent it to England on that ship. From the report he submitted, the following details were gathered:

GROUND IN CULTIVATION, THE 16TH OCTOBER 1792
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Acres  Acres  Acres        Ground    Total
                          in     in     in    Garden cleared   number
                          wheat  barley maize ground of timber of acres
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
At Parramatta                ¾     7½    308     -      -       316¼
At and leading to         171½    14     511     -      -       696½
Toongabbie
Total public ground       172¼    21½    819     -      -      1012¾

_Belonging to Settlers and others_
At Parramatta,                                 (1
The governor's garden       -       ½      2   (3 vines -         6½
Garden ground belonging to
different people, including
convicts' gardens           -      -       -  104       -       104
At Parramatta, 1 settler    3      -      18    1       7        29
At Prospect Hill, four miles
to the westward of
Parramatta, 18 settlers    11¼     -      84    -       -        95¼
At the Ponds, two miles to
the northeast of
Parramatta, 16 settlers    10¼     2¼     63    3½     16½       95½
At the Northern boundary
farms, two miles from
Parramatta, 5 settlers      3      -      35    2¾     11        51¾
At the Field of Mars, on
the north shore, near the
entrance of the creek
leading to Parramatta,
8 settlers, (marines)       4      -      44½   2      31        81½
At the Eastern farms,
12 settlers                 -      -      40½   -      12½       53
On the creek leading to
Parramatta, 7 settlers      4¾     -      80½   4      22       111¼
In cultivation by the civil
and military at Sydney      -      -       -    -       6½        6½
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                     208½    24¼   1186½ 121¼    162½      1703
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

GROUND IN CULTIVATION, THE 16TH OCTOBER 1792
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Acres  Acres  Acres        Ground    Total
                          in     in     in    Garden cleared   number
                          wheat  barley maize ground of timber of acres
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
At Parramatta                ¾      7½    308     -      -       316¼
At and leading to         171½    14     511     -      -       696½
Toongabbie
Total public ground       172¼    21½    819     -      -      1012¾

_Belonging to Settlers and others_
At Parramatta,                                 (1
The governor's garden       -       ½      2   (3 vines -         6½
Garden ground belonging to
different people, including
convicts' gardens           -      -       -  104       -       104
At Parramatta, 1 settler    3      -      18    1       7        29
At Prospect Hill, four miles
to the westward of
Parramatta, 18 settlers    11¼     -      84    -       -        95¼
At the Ponds, two miles to
the northeast of
Parramatta, 16 settlers    10¼     2¼     63    3½     16½       95½
At the Northern boundary
farms, two miles from
Parramatta, 5 settlers      3      -      35    2¾     11        51¾
At the Field of Mars, on
the north shore, near the
entrance of the creek
leading to Parramatta,
8 settlers, (marines)       4      -      44½   2      31        81½
At the Eastern farms,
12 settlers                 -      -      40½   -      12½       53
On the creek leading to
Parramatta, 7 settlers      4¾     -      80½   4      22       111¼
In cultivation by the civil
and military at Sydney      -      -       -    -       6½        6½
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total                     208½    24¼   1186½ 121¼    162½      1703
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Of the sixty-seven settlers above enumerated, one, James Ruse, who had a grant of thirty acres at Parramatta, went upon his farm the latter end of November 1789; but none of the others began to cultivate ground upon their own accounts earlier than the middle of July 1791; but many of them at a much later date. The eight marine settlers at the Field of Mars took possession of their allotments at the beginning of February 1792. The conditions held out to settlers were, to be victualled and clothed from the public store for eighteen months from the term of their becoming settlers; to be furnished with tools and implements of husbandry; grain to sow their grounds, and such stock as could be spared from the public. They were likewise to have assigned them the services of such a number of convicts as the governor should think proper, on their making it appear that they could employ, feed, and clothe them. Every man had a hut erected on his farm at the public expense. At the time of the governor's departure, many of them, by their own industry, and the assistance he had afforded them, were enabled to have one or two convicts off the store, and employed by them at their farms; and such as were not married were allowed a convict hutkeeper. In general they were not idle, and the major part were comfortably situated.

Of the sixty-seven settlers listed above, one, James Ruse, who received a grant of thirty acres in Parramatta, started on his farm in late November 1789. However, none of the others began farming on their own until around mid-July 1791, and many started even later. The eight marine settlers at the Field of Mars claimed their plots at the beginning of February 1792. The conditions offered to settlers included being provided with food and clothing from the public store for eighteen months from the time they became settlers, being supplied with farming tools and equipment, grain to plant their fields, and any livestock that could be spared from the public. They were also to be assigned a number of convicts as determined by the governor, as long as they could demonstrate that they could feed, clothe, and employ them. Each man had a hut built on his farm at public expense. At the time the governor left, many of them, through their own hard work and the assistance he provided, were able to have one or two convicts from the store working on their farms; those who weren’t married were allowed a convict hutkeeper. Generally, they weren’t idle, and most were in a comfortable situation.

At this time the quantity of land which had passed to settlers* in this territory under the seal of the colony amounted to three thousand four hundred and seventy acres; of which quantity four hundred and seventeen acres and a half were in cultivation, and the timber cleared from one hundred more, ready for sowing; which, compared with the total of the public ground in cultivation (one thousand and twelve acres and three quarters) will be found to be by eleven acres more than equal to one half of it. A striking proof of what some settlers had themselves declared, on its being hinted to them that they had not always been so diligent when labouring for the whole, 'We are now working for ourselves.' One material good was, however, to be expected from a tract of land of that extent being cultivated by individuals, if at any time an accident should happen to the crop on the public ground, they might be a resource, though an inconsiderable one. Fortunately, no misfortune of that nature had ever fallen upon the colony; but it had been, at the beginning of this month, very near experiencing a calamity that would have blasted all the prospects of the next season, and in one moment have rendered ineffectual the labour of many hands and of many months. Two days after the wheat had been reaped, and got off the ground at Toongabbie, the whole of the stubble was burnt. The day on which this happened had been unusually hot, and the country was every where on fire. Had it befallen us while the wheat was upon the ground, nothing could have saved the whole from being destroyed. From this circumstance, however, one good resulted; precautions against a similar accident were immediately taken, by clearing the timber for a certain distance round the cultivated land.

At this time, the amount of land that settlers had received in this territory under the colony's seal was three thousand four hundred and seventy acres. Out of this, four hundred and seventeen and a half acres were being farmed, and timber had been cleared from another one hundred acres, which were ready for planting. This was more than eleven acres above half of the total public ground under cultivation, which was one thousand and twelve and three quarters acres. This served as a clear indication of what some settlers had mentioned when it was suggested they hadn’t always worked as hard for everyone’s benefit: "Now we're working for ourselves." One significant benefit from individuals cultivating such a large tract of land was that if anything happened to the crop on the public land, they could serve as a backup, even if it was a small one. Thankfully, the colony had never faced such a disaster; however, at the beginning of this month, it came very close to experiencing a calamity that would have ruined all the next season’s hopes and rendered the hard work of many hands pointless. Two days after the wheat was harvested and removed from the ground at Toongabbie, the entire stubble was set on fire. The day this occurred was extremely hot, and fires were breaking out everywhere. If it had happened while the wheat was still in the ground, there would have been no way to save it. Nevertheless, one good outcome emerged from this incident: immediate steps were taken to prevent a similar disaster by clearing timber from a certain distance around the cultivated land.

[* Some few had been added since the surveyor's return of the 16th October.]

[* A few had been added since the surveyor returned on October 16th.]

The stock belonging to the public was kept at Parramatta. It consisted of three bulls*, two bull calves, fifteen cows, three calves, five stallions, six mares, one hundred and five sheep, and forty-three hogs.

The livestock owned by the public was kept at Parramatta. It included three bulls*, two bull calves, fifteen cows, three calves, five stallions, six mares, one hundred and five sheep, and forty-three pigs.

[* Two from Calcutta, and one which was calved on board the Gorgon.]

[* Two from Calcutta, and one that was born on the Gorgon.]

Of the sheep, the governor gave to each of the married settlers from the convicts, and to each settler from the marines, and from the Sirius, one ewe for the purpose of breeding; and to others he gave such female goats as could be spared. This stock had been procured at much expense; and his excellency hoped that the people among whom he left it would see the advantage it might prove to them, and cherish it accordingly.

Of the sheep, the governor gave each of the married settlers from the convicts, and each settler from the marines and from the Sirius, one ewe for breeding; and he gave other female goats that could be spared to others. This livestock had been acquired at a high cost, and the governor hoped that the people he left it with would realize its potential benefits and take care of it accordingly.

His excellency, at embarking on board the Atlantic, was received near the wharf on the east-side, (where his boat was lying), by Major Grose, at the head of the New South Wales corps, who paid him, as he passed, the honors due to his rank and situation in the colony. He was attended by the officers of the civil department, and the three marine officers who were to accompany him to England.

His Excellency, when getting on board the Atlantic, was welcomed near the wharf on the east side (where his boat was waiting) by Major Grose, leading the New South Wales Corps, who showed him the respect appropriate to his rank and status in the colony as he passed by. He was accompanied by officials from the civil department and three marine officers who would be going with him to England.

At daylight on the morning of the 11th, the Atlantic was got under way, and by eight o'clock was clear of the Heads, standing to the ESE with a fresh breeze at south. By twelve o'clock she had gained a considerable offing.

At daybreak on the morning of the 11th, the Atlantic set off, and by eight o'clock, it was past the Heads, heading to the ESE with a strong breeze from the south. By noon, it had made significant distance.

With the governor there embarked, voluntarily and cheerfully, two natives of this country, Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie, two men who were much attached to his person; and who withstood at the moment of their departure the united distress of their wives, and the dismal lamentations of their friends, to accompany him to England, a place that they well knew was at a great distance from them."

With the governor on board, two locals, Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie, gladly and willingly joined him. These men were very close to him and, despite the heartfelt sorrow of their wives and the mournful cries of their friends at the time of their departure, chose to accompany him to England, a place they understood was far away.

One or two convicts also who had conducted themselves to his satisfaction, and whose periods of transportation were expired, were permitted by the governor to return to England in the same ship with himself.

One or two convicts who had behaved well and whose time in exile was over were allowed by the governor to return to England on the same ship as him.

The Atlantic had likewise on board various specimens of the natural productions of the country, timber, plants, animals, and birds. Among the animals were four fine kangaroos, and several native dogs.

The Atlantic also had various samples of the country’s natural resources on board, including timber, plants, animals, and birds. Among the animals were four healthy kangaroos and several native dogs.

The Atlantic had been put into excellent condition for the voyage which she had to perform; she was well found and well manned, and there appeared no reason to doubt her reaching England in six months from her departure. A safe and speedy passage to her was the general wish, not only on account of the governor, whose health and constitution (already much impaired) might suffer greatly by the fatigues of a protracted voyage; but that the information of which his excellency was in possession respecting these settlements, from their establishments to the moment of his quitting them, might as quickly as possible be laid before administration.

The Atlantic was in great shape for the journey ahead; it was well-equipped and well-staffed, and there seemed to be no reason to doubt it would reach England within six months of leaving. Everyone hoped for a safe and quick passage, not just because of the governor, whose health (already fragile) could worsen from the strain of a long voyage, but also so that the information he had about these settlements—from their beginnings to when he left—could be presented to the administration as soon as possible.

The government of the colony now devolved, by his Majesty's letters patent under the great seal of Great Britain, upon the lieutenant-governor. This office was filled by the major-commandant of the New South Wales corps, Francis Grose, esq who arrived in February last in the Pitt transport. At his taking upon himself the government, on which occasion the usual oaths were administered by the judge-advocate, he gave out the following order, regulating the mode of carrying on the duty at Parramatta:

The colony's government was now transferred, by the King's letters patent under the Great Seal of Great Britain, to the lieutenant-governor. This position was held by the major-commandant of the New South Wales Corps, Francis Grose, Esq., who arrived last February on the Pitt transport. When he assumed control of the government, the judge-advocate administered the usual oaths, and he issued the following order to regulate how duties would be conducted at Parramatta:

'All orders given by the captain who commands at Parramatta, respecting the convicts stationed there, are to be obeyed; and all complaints or reports that would be made to the lieutenant-governor when present, are in his absence to be communicated to captain Foveaux, or such other captain as may be doing duty with the detachment.'

'All orders from the captain in charge at Parramatta regarding the convicts stationed there must be followed. Any complaints or reports that would typically be addressed to the lieutenant-governor in his presence should, in his absence, be directed to Captain Foveaux or any other captain on duty with the detachment.'

The alteration which this order produced, consisted in substituting the military for the civil officer. Before this period, all complaints had been inquired into by the civil magistrate, who, in the governor's absence from Parramatta, punished such slight offences as required immediate cognizance, reporting to the governor from time to time whatever he did; and all orders and directions which regarded the convicts, and all reports which were made respecting them, went through him.

The change that this order caused involved replacing the civil officer with a military one. Prior to this time, all complaints were handled by the civil magistrate, who, when the governor was absent from Parramatta, dealt with minor offenses that needed immediate attention and reported what actions he took to the governor periodically. All orders and instructions related to the convicts, as well as all reports about them, went through him.

The military power had hitherto been considered as requisite only for the protection of the stores, and the discharge of such duties as belonged to their profession, without having any share in the civil direction of the colony*; but as it was provided by his Majesty's commission already spoken of, that, in case, of the death or absence both of the governor and lieutenant-governor of the territory, the officer next in rank on service in the colony should take upon himself and exercise the functions of the governor, until such time as instructions should be received from England; under this idea, the lieutenant-governor issued the above order, placing the captain commanding the detachment of the New South Wales corps at Parramatta, in the direction of the civil duties of that settlement.

The military power had previously been seen as necessary only for protecting supplies and fulfilling their professional duties, without getting involved in the civil management of the colony; however, as stated in his Majesty's previously mentioned commission, in the event of the death or absence of both the governor and lieutenant governor of the territory, the officer next in rank on duty in the colony would assume the responsibilities of the governor until instructions were received from England. With this understanding, the lieutenant governor issued the above order, assigning the captain in charge of the detachment of the New South Wales corps at Parramatta to oversee the civil responsibilities of that settlement.

[* The commanding officer of the corps or regiment serving in the territory excepted, who held likewise the civil appointment of lieutenant-governor.]

[* The commanding officer of the corps or regiment operating in the area, who also held the civil position of lieutenant-governor.]

Direct south view of Sydney.

Direct south view of Sydney.

Similar regulations took place at Sydney, where 'the captain of the day was directed to report to the commanding officer all convict prisoners, stating by whom and on what account they might be confined;' and this order was in a few days after enforced by another, which directed 'that all inquiries by the civil magistrate were in future to be dispensed with, until the lieutenant-governor had given directions on the subject; and the convicts were not on any account to be punished but by his particular order.'

Similar regulations were put in place in Sydney, where 'the captain on duty was instructed to report to the commanding officer all convict prisoners, specifying who had confined them and why;' and this order was enforced a few days later by another one, which stated 'that all inquiries by the civil magistrate were to be put on hold until the lieutenant-governor provided guidance on the matter; and convicts were not to be punished under any circumstances except by his specific order.'

At Sydney, it had been usual for the magistrates to take examinations, and make enquiry into offences, either weekly, or as occasion required, and to order such punishment as they thought necessary, always reporting their proceedings to the chief authority.

At Sydney, it was common for the magistrates to conduct examinations and investigate offenses either weekly or as needed, and to determine punishments they deemed appropriate, always reporting their actions to the chief authority.

It must be noticed, that at this time the civil magistrates in the colony consisted of the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate, who were justices of the peace by virtue of their respective commissions; the Rev. Mr. Johnson; Augustus Alt and Richard Atkins*, Esquires, who had been sworn in as magistrates by authority of the governor.

It should be noted that at this time, the civil officials in the colony included the lieutenant-governor and the judge-advocate, who served as justices of the peace due to their official appointments; the Rev. Mr. Johnson; and Augustus Alt and Richard Atkins*, Esquires, who had been sworn in as magistrates by the governor's authority.

[* This gentleman had been appointed registrar of the court of vice-admiralty by Governor Phillip.]

[* This man had been appointed the registrar of the vice-admiralty court by Governor Phillip.]

As no inconvenience had ever been experienced in the mode which was practised of conducting the business of the settlement, the necessity or cause of these alterations was not directly obvious, and could not be accounted for from any other motive than that preference which a military man might be supposed to give to carrying on the service by means of his own officers, rather than by any other.

As there had never been any issues with the way the settlement's business was conducted, the need for these changes wasn’t immediately clear and couldn’t be explained by any reason other than the idea that a military person might prefer to manage operations with their own officers rather than through others.

On Saturday the 15th the convicts received their provisions according to the ration that was issued before the governor's departure; but on the Monday following, the usual day of serving provisions to the civil and military, a distinction was made, for the first time, in the ration they received; the commissary being directed to issue to the officers of the civil and military departments, the soldiers, superintendants, watchmen, overseers, and settlers from the marines, six pounds of flour, and but two pounds of rice per man, per week, instead of three pounds of flour, and five pounds of rice, which was the allowance of the convicts. This distinction was intended to be discontinued whenever the full ration could be served.

On Saturday the 15th, the prisoners got their supplies based on the ration that was given out before the governor left; however, the following Monday, the regular day for distributing provisions to the civil and military personnel, a difference was made for the first time in the rations they received. The commissary was instructed to give the officers of the civil and military departments, the soldiers, supervisors, watchmen, overseers, and settlers from the marines, six pounds of flour and only two pounds of rice per person, per week, instead of the convicts' allowance of three pounds of flour and five pounds of rice. This difference was meant to be ended once the full ration could be provided.

The stock which had been distributed among the married settlers and others by Governor Phillip for the purpose of breeding from (as has been already observed) appeared to have been thrown away upon them when viewed as a breeding stock for settlers. No sooner had the Atlantic sailed, than the major part of them were offered for sale; and there was little doubt (many of their owners making no scruple to publish their intentions) that had they not been bought by the officers, in a very few weeks many of them would have been destroyed. By this conduct, as far as their individual benefit was concerned, they had put it out of their own power to reap any advantage from the governor's bounty to them; but the stock by this means was saved, and had fallen into hands that certainly would not wantonly destroy it. There were a few among the settlers who exchanged their sheep for goats, deeming them a more profitable stock; but, in general, spirits were the price required by the more ignorant and imprudent part of them; and several of their farms, which had been, and ought to have always been, the peaceful retreats of industry, were for a time the seats of inebriety and consequent disorder.

The livestock that Governor Phillip had given to the married settlers and others for breeding purposes (as previously mentioned) seemed to be wasted on them when considered as a breeding stock for settlers. No sooner had the Atlantic departed than most of them were put up for sale; and there was little doubt (many of their owners openly shared their intentions) that if the officers hadn't bought them, many would have been destroyed in just a few weeks. By acting this way, they had taken away their own chance to benefit from the governor's generosity; however, this ensured that the stock was preserved and ended up in the hands of those who would not recklessly destroy it. A few settlers traded their sheep for goats, thinking they were a better investment, but in general, the less prudent settlers demanded alcohol as the price; and several of their farms, which should always have been peaceful hubs of hard work, briefly became centers of drunkenness and chaos.

About this time there anchored in the cove an American ship, the Hope, commanded by a Mr. Benjamin Page, from Rhode island, with a small cargo of provisions and spirits for sale. The cause of his putting into this harbour, the master declared, was for the purpose of procuring wood and water, of which he stated his ship to be much in want; thus making the sale of his cargo appear to be but a secondary object with him.

Around this time, an American ship called the Hope docked in the cove. It was commanded by Mr. Benjamin Page from Rhode Island and carried a small load of supplies and alcohol for sale. The captain explained that he needed to stop in this harbor to get wood and water, which his ship really needed; so he made it sound like selling his cargo was just a secondary goal.

As the colony had not yet seen the day when it could have independently said, 'We are not in want of provisions; procure your wood and your water, and go your way,' the lieutenant-governor directed the commissary to purchase such part of his cargo as the colony stood in need of; and two hundred barrels of American cured beef, at four pounds per barrel; eighty barrels of pork, at four pounds ten shillings per barrel; forty-four barrels of flour, at two pounds per barrel; and seven thousand five hundred and ninety-seven gallons of (new American) spirits at four shillings and sixpence per gallon, were purchased; amounting in all to the sum of £2957 6s 6d.

As the colony hadn't reached the point where it could confidently say, 'We don't need supplies; go find your own wood and water,' the lieutenant-governor instructed the commissary to buy whatever the colony required from his cargo. They purchased two hundred barrels of American cured beef at four pounds per barrel; eighty barrels of pork at four pounds ten shillings per barrel; forty-four barrels of flour at two pounds per barrel; and seven thousand five hundred and ninety-seven gallons of (new American) spirits at four shillings and sixpence per gallon, totaling £2957 6s 6d.

This ship had touched at the Falkland Islands for the purpose of collecting skins from the different vessels employed in the seal trade from the United States of America, with which she was to proceed to the China market. From the Cape of Good Hope her passage had been performed in two months and one day. The master said, he found the prevailing winds were from the NW and described the weather as the most boisterous he had ever known for such a length of time. By one sea, his caboose was washed over the side, and one of his people going with it was drowned. He observed, when about the South-cape of this country, that the weather was clear; but after passing the latitude of the Maria Islands, he found it close, hazy, and heated, and had every appearance of thick smoke. About that time we had the same sort of weather here; and the excessive heats which at other times have been experienced in the settlements have been also noticed at sea when at some distance from the land.

This ship had stopped at the Falkland Islands to collect skins from various vessels involved in the seal trade from the United States, which she was set to take to the China market. The passage from the Cape of Good Hope took two months and one day. The captain noted that the prevailing winds were from the northwest and described the weather as the most turbulent he had ever experienced for such an extended period. During one storm, his stove was swept overboard, and one of his crew members drowned with it. He remarked that when he was near the South Cape of this country, the weather was clear; however, after passing the latitude of the Maria Islands, it became overcast, hazy, and warm, resembling thick smoke. Around that time, we experienced similar weather here, and the extreme heat that has been felt in the settlements at other times was also observed at sea when far from land.

By this ship we were not fortunate enough to receive any European news. The master saw only one English ship at the Cape, the Chesterfield whaler, commanded by a Mr. Alt, who had formerly been a midshipman in his Majesty's ship Sirius, and who went home on board of the Neptune transport."

By this ship, we weren't lucky enough to get any news from Europe. The captain only spotted one English ship at the Cape, the Chesterfield whaler, led by a Mr. Alt, who had previously been a midshipman on His Majesty's ship Sirius and returned home on the Neptune transport.

In a few days after the arrival of the Hope, the signal was again made at the South Head, and in a few hours the Chesterfield, the ship just mentioned to us by the American, anchored in the cove. She sailed from the Cape of Good Hope shortly after Mr. Page; and the master said he touched at Kerguelan's Land, where, some other ship having very recently preceded him (which he judged from finding several sea elephants dead on the beach, and a club which is used in killing them) he remained but a short time, having very bad weather. He supposed the ship which preceded him to have been the first which had visited those desolate islands since Captain Cook had been there, as he found the fragments of the bottle in which that officer had deposited a memorial of his having examined them. This was conjecture and might be erroneous, as the mere pieces of the bottle afforded no proof that it had been recently broken.

In a few days after the arrival of the Hope, a signal was made at South Head, and within a few hours, the Chesterfield, the ship we had just heard about from the American, anchored in the cove. She had set sail from the Cape of Good Hope shortly after Mr. Page; and the captain said he stopped at Kerguelen's Land, where another ship had recently been (he figured this out from finding several dead sea elephants on the beach and a club used to kill them). He didn’t stay long because the weather was really bad. He thought the ship that had been there before him might have been the first to visit those desolate islands since Captain Cook, since he found fragments of the bottle that Cook used to leave a message about his visit. This was just a guess and could be wrong, as the broken pieces of the bottle didn’t prove it had been broken recently.

Mr. Alt spoke of meeting with very bad weather, and of his ship having thereby suffered such injury, that he was compelled on the representation of his people to put in here for the purpose of getting repairs. Indeed her appearance very amply justified their representations; and it was a wonder how she had swam so far, for her complaints must have been of very long standing.

Mr. Alt talked about encountering really bad weather, and because of that, his ship got so damaged that he had to stop here to get repairs, as his crew insisted. In fact, the condition of the ship clearly supported their claims; it was amazing how she had made it so far, considering her issues must have been ongoing for a long time.

To expedite the building of the new barracks, which formed the most material labour at Sydney, two overseers and forty men were sent down from Parramatta. One barrack being now completed, towards the latter end of the month it was occupied by Captain George Johnston, a party-wall having been thrown down adapting the building to the accommodation of one instead of two officers.

To speed up the construction of the new barracks, which represented the bulk of the labor in Sydney, two supervisors and forty workers were sent down from Parramatta. With one barrack now finished, by the end of the month it was occupied by Captain George Johnston, after a wall was removed to modify the building for one officer instead of two.

On the last day of the month, two warrants of emancipation passed the seal of the territory, together with a grant of twenty-five acres of land to Ensign Cummings of the New South Wales corps. In the instructions for granting lands in this country, no mention of officers had yet been made; it was however fairly presumed that the officers could not be intended to be precluded from the participation of any advantages which the crown might have to bestow in the settlements; particularly as the greatest in its gift, the free possession of land, was held out to people who had forfeited their lives before they came into the country.

On the last day of the month, two emancipation warrants were officially issued in the territory, along with a grant of twenty-five acres of land to Ensign Cummings of the New South Wales corps. The guidelines for granting land in this country hadn't mentioned officers yet; however, it was generally assumed that officers weren't meant to be excluded from any benefits the crown might offer in the settlements, especially since the most significant of these benefits, the free possession of land, was given to people who had risked their lives before arriving in the country.

Among the regulations which took place at Sydney, must be noticed the dispensing with the officer's guard which had always mounted there; and the changing the hours of labour. The convicts now had more time given to them, for the purpose not only of avoiding the heat of the day, but of making themselves comfortable at home. They were directed to work from five in the morning until nine; rest until four in the afternoon, and then labour until sun-set.

Among the regulations enacted in Sydney, it’s important to note the removal of the officer's guard that had always been present there, as well as the changes to work hours. The convicts were now given more time, not just to escape the heat of the day but also to make themselves comfortable at home. They were instructed to work from five in the morning until nine, rest until four in the afternoon, and then labor until sunset.

The Kitty, having delivered her cargo, began to prepare for taking some stores and provisions and a detachment of the New South Wales corps to Norfolk Island.

The Kitty, after dropping off her cargo, started getting ready to pick up some supplies and a group from the New South Wales corps to head to Norfolk Island.

The weather during this month was very hot. The 5th was a day most excessively sultry. The wind blew strong from the northward of west; the country, to add to the intense heat of the atmosphere, was everywhere on fire. At Sydney, the grass at the back of the hill on the west side of the cove, having either caught or been set on fire by the natives, the flames, aided by the wind which at that time blew violently, spread and raged with incredible fury. One house was burnt down, several gardens with their fences were destroyed; and the whole face of the hill was on fire, threatening every thatched hut with destruction. The conflagration was with much difficulty (notwithstanding the exertions of the military) got under, after some time, and prevented from doing any further mischief. At different times during this uncomfortable day distant thunder was heard, the air darkened, and some few large drops of rain fell. The apparent danger from the fires drew all persons out of their houses; and on going into the parching air, it was scarcely possible to breathe; the heat was insupportable; vegetation seemed to suffer much, the leaves of many culinary plants being reduced to a powder. The thermometer in the shade rose above one hundred degrees. Some rain falling toward evening, the excessive heat abated.

The weather this month was extremely hot. The 5th was an especially sweltering day. The wind blew strongly from the northwest, and to make the intense heat even worse, fires were burning everywhere. In Sydney, the grass on the hill behind the cove had either caught fire or been deliberately set ablaze by the locals, and the flames, fueled by the violent wind, spread uncontrollably. One house was burned down, several gardens and their fences were destroyed, and the entire hillside was ablaze, threatening every thatched hut in the area. Despite the military's efforts, it took a long time to get the fire under control and prevent any further damage. Throughout this uncomfortable day, distant thunder could be heard at times, the sky darkened, and a few large drops of rain fell. The apparent threat from the fires forced everyone out of their homes, and stepping into the scorching air made it nearly impossible to breathe; the heat was unbearable. Vegetation suffered greatly, with the leaves of many edible plants reduced to dust. The thermometer in the shade rose above one hundred degrees. Some rain fell in the evening, which cooled down the excessive heat.

At Parramatta and Toongabbie also the heat was extreme; the country there too was every where in flames. Mr. Arndell was a great sufferer by it. The fire had spread to his farm; but by the efforts of his own people and the neighbouring settlers it was got under, and its progress supposed to be effectually checked, when an unlucky spark from a tree, which had been on fire to the topmost branch, flying upon the thatch of the hut where his people lived, it blazed out; the hut with all the out-buildings, and thirty bushels of wheat just got into a stack, were in a few minutes destroyed. The erecting of the hut and out-houses had cost £15 a short time before.

At Parramatta and Toongabbie, the heat was intense; the land there was on fire everywhere. Mr. Arndell suffered greatly because of it. The fire had reached his farm, but thanks to the efforts of his workers and nearby settlers, they managed to control it, and it was thought to be effectively halted. Unfortunately, a stray spark from a tree that had burned down to the last branch landed on the thatched roof of the hut where his people lived, igniting it. In just a few minutes, the hut along with all the outbuildings and thirty bushels of wheat that had just been stacked were destroyed. It had only cost £15 to build the hut and outbuildings a little while ago.

The day preceding that of the excessive heat, James Castles, an industrious and thriving settler at Prospect Hill, had his hut accidentally burnt down, with all his comforts, and three bushels of wheat which he had just reaped. The governor ordered his hut to be rebuilt, and every assistance given which the stores afforded to repair his loss.

The day before the extreme heat, James Castles, a hardworking and successful settler at Prospect Hill, had his hut accidentally burned down, along with all his belongings and three bushels of wheat he had just harvested. The governor ordered his hut to be rebuilt and ensured he received all the help that the stores could provide to make up for his loss.

There died between the 1st of January and 31st of December 1792, two of the civil department, six soldiers, four hundred and eighteen male convicts, eighteen female convicts, and twenty-nine children; one male convict was executed; and three male convicts were lost in the woods; making a decrease by death of four hundred and eighty-two persons.

There were deaths between January 1 and December 31, 1792, including two from the civil department, six soldiers, four hundred and eighteen male convicts, eighteen female convicts, and twenty-nine children; one male convict was executed; and three male convicts were lost in the woods; resulting in a total decrease of four hundred and eighty-two people due to death.

The following were the prices of stock, grain, and other articles, as they were sold at Sydney, and at Parramatta, at the close of the year:

The following were the prices of stock, grain, and other items as they were sold in Sydney and Parramatta at the end of the year:

AT SYDNEY

Maize per lb. 3d
Rice per lb 3d
Peas or dholl from 1½d to 2d per lb.
Flour 9d per lb.
Potatoes 3d per lb.
Sheep £10 10s each.
Milch goats from £8 8s to £10 10s
Kids from £2 10s to £4
Breeding sows from £6 6s to £7 7s and £10 10s
Young ditto from £3 to £4
Laying hens 10s
Full grown fowls from 5s to 7s 6d
Chickens 1s 6d
Fresh pork per lb 1s
Prime salt pork from 6d to 8d
Salt beef 4d
Eggs per dozen from 2s to 3s
Moist sugar per lb 1s 6d
Tea from 8s to 16s
Soap 1s
Butter from 1s 6d to 2s
Cheese from 1s 6d to 2s
Hams from 1s 6d to 2s
Bacon from 1s 6d to 2s

AT PARRAMATTA

Maize per lb. 3d
Rice per lb. 3d
Peas or dholl 2d per lb.
Flour 6d per lb
Potatoes 2d per lb
Sheep £10 10s each
Milch goats from £5 5s to £10
Breeding sows from £6 6s to £10 10s
Pigs of a month old 12s
Laying hens from 7s to 10s
Full grown fowls from 7s to 10s
Chickens 1s 6d
Fresh pork per lb 1s
Prime salt pork 6d
Salt beef 4d
Eggs per dozen 2s
Moist sugar per lb 1s 6d
Tea from 6s to 16s
Soap 1s
Coffee 2s
Tobacco, American Brazil, 4s
Tobacco of the colony 2s

AT SYDNEY

Corn per lb. 3d  
Rice per lb 3d  
Peas or dholl from 1½d to 2d per lb.  
Flour 9d per lb.  
Potatoes 3d per lb.  
Sheep £10 10s each.  
Milch goats from £8 8s to £10 10s  
Kids from £2 10s to £4  
Breeding sows from £6 6s to £7 7s and £10 10s  
Young ones from £3 to £4  
Laying hens 10s  
Full grown chickens from 5s to 7s 6d  
Chickens 1s 6d  
Fresh pork per lb 1s  
Prime salt pork from 6d to 8d  
Salt beef 4d  
Eggs per dozen from 2s to 3s  
Moist sugar per lb 1s 6d  
Tea from 8s to 16s  
Soap 1s  
Butter from 1s 6d to 2s  
Cheese from 1s 6d to 2s  
Hams from 1s 6d to 2s  
Bacon from 1s 6d to 2s  

AT PARRAMATTA

Corn per lb. 3d  
Rice per lb. 3d  
Peas or dholl 2d per lb.  
Flour 6d per lb  
Potatoes 2d per lb  
Sheep £10 10s each  
Milch goats from £5 5s to £10  
Breeding sows from £6 6s to £10 10s  
Pigs a month old 12s  
Laying hens from 7s to 10s  
Full grown chickens from 7s to 10s  
Chickens 1s 6d  
Fresh pork per lb 1s  
Prime salt pork 6d  
Salt beef 4d  
Eggs per dozen 2s  
Moist sugar per lb 1s 6d  
Tea from 6s to 16s  
Soap 1s  
Coffee 2s  
American Brazil tobacco 4s  
Colony tobacco 2s

The price of fish and vegetables varied from day to day; spirits in exchange were estimated at from twelve to twenty shillings per gallon; porter was sold from nine to ten pounds per hogshead, or from one shilling to one shilling and three pence per quart.

The price of fish and vegetables changed daily; spirits were valued between twelve and twenty shillings per gallon; porter sold for nine to ten pounds per hogshead, or from one shilling to one shilling and three pence per quart.

It did not appear that the settlers had brought any new wheat or other grain to market.

It didn’t seem like the settlers had brought any new wheat or other grains to the market.

CHAPTER XX

Order respecting spirits
Seamen punished
Convicts enlisted into the new corps
Regulations respecting Divine Service
The Hope sails
The Bellona arrives
Cargo damaged
Information
Two women and a child drowned
The Kitty sails for Norfolk Island
Ration
An Officer sent up to inspect the cultivation at Parramatta
A theft committed
Works
Kangaroo Ground opened
Settlers
Liberty Plains
Conditions
Bellona sails
Transactions
The Shah Hormuzear from Calcutta arrives
Information received by her
The dholl expended
Sickness and death occasioned by the American spirits
The Chesterfield sent to Norfolk Island
Convicts sell their clothing
Two Spanish ships arrive
Information
Epitaph
A Criminal Court
The Kitty returns from Norfolk Island
Fraud at the store at Parramatta

Order regarding spirits
Sailors punished
Inmates recruited for the new corps
Rules regarding Divine Service
The Hope departs
The Bellona arrives
Cargo damaged
Updates
Two women and a child drowned
The Kitty departs for Norfolk Island
Rations
An officer sent to check the farming at Parramatta
A theft occurred
Projects
Kangaroo Ground opened
Settlers
Liberty Plains
Conditions
Bellona departs
Transactions
The Shah Hormuzear from Calcutta arrives
Information received by her
The dholl used up
Illness and death caused by the American spirits
The Chesterfield sent to Norfolk Island
Inmates sell their clothing
Two Spanish ships arrive
Updates
Epitaph
A Criminal Court
The Kitty returns from Norfolk Island
Fraud at the store in Parramatta

1793.]

1793.

January.] The lieutenant-governor having directed the commissary to dispose of the spirits purchased from the American to the military and civil officers of the colony, in which were included the superintendants, and some others in that line, it was found that it had been purchased by many individuals of the latter description with the particular view of retailing it among the convicts. He therefore found it necessary to declare in public orders, 'That it was his intention to make frequent inquiries on the subject; and it might be relied upon, that if it ever appeared that a convict was possessed of any of the liquor so supplied by the commissary, the conduct of those who had thought proper to abuse what was designed as an accommodation to the officers of the garrison, would not be passed over unnoticed.'

January.] The lieutenant-governor instructed the commissary to distribute the alcohol bought from the Americans to the military and civil officials of the colony, which included the superintendents and others in similar positions. It was discovered that many individuals in that group had purchased it specifically to sell it to the convicts. Therefore, it became necessary for him to announce in public orders, 'That he intended to conduct regular inquiries on this matter; and it would be guaranteed that if it was ever revealed that a convict had any of the liquor supplied by the commissary, the actions of those who had misused what was meant as a convenience for the garrison officers would not be overlooked.'

Some such order had indeed become very necessary; for the American spirit had by some means or other found its way among the convicts; and, a discreet use of it being wholly out of the question with those people, intoxication was become common among them. The free use of spirits had been hitherto most rigidly prohibited in the colony; that is to say, it was absolutely forbidden to the convicts. It might therefore have been expected, that when that restraint was in ever so small a degree removed, they would break out into acts of disorder and contempt of former prohibitions. It was therefore indispensable to the preservation of peace and good order in the settlement, to prevent, if possible, the existence of so great an evil as drunkenness; which, if suffered, would have been the parent of every irregularity. The fondness expressed by these people for even this pernicious American spirit was incredible; they hesitated not to go any lengths to procure it, and preferred receiving liquor for labour, to every other article of provisions or clothing that could be offered them.

Some sort of regulation had definitely become essential; because the American spirit had somehow made its way into the hands of the convicts, and since they were incapable of using it responsibly, intoxication had become common among them. The unrestricted use of alcohol had previously been strictly forbidden in the colony, especially for the convicts. It was therefore expected that once that restriction was even slightly lifted, they would engage in acts of disorder and disregard for previous bans. To maintain peace and order in the settlement, it was crucial to prevent the significant issue of drunkenness, as allowing it would lead to all sorts of irregular behavior. The eagerness these people showed for this harmful American spirit was astonishing; they didn't hesitate to go to great lengths to obtain it and preferred receiving alcohol in exchange for labor over any other food or clothing that could be offered to them.

The master of the Kitty having represented to the lieutenant-governor that the conduct of his ship's company was at times so irregular and mutinous (some of them refusing to do their duty, going on shore and taking boats from the ship without permission) that he found it impossible to carry on the business of the ship, unless he could receive some assistance from the civil authority, the lieutenant-governor directed one, of whom the master particularly complained, Benjamin Williams, to receive one hundred lashes, and another, Adams, to receive twenty-five lashes. This in some measure checked the spirit of disobedience in the ship, and the duty was carried on better than before. Her preparations for Norfolk Island however went on but slowly, four or five of her hands having left her. These, together with some other seamen who had been left behind from the Royal Admiral, were either employed in the public boats belonging to the colony, or had entered into the New South Wales corps; into which corps also several convicts of good character had been lately received, to complete the company that had been formed from the marines under the command of Captain Johnston. This company was a valuable addition, being composed of many excellent soldiers from the marines; who entered into it voluntarily, and whose conduct had met the entire approbation of their officers.

The captain of the Kitty informed the lieutenant-governor that the behavior of his crew was sometimes so unruly and defiant (with some refusing to do their jobs, going ashore, and taking boats from the ship without permission) that he found it impossible to manage the ship's operations without help from the authorities. In response, the lieutenant-governor ordered that one crew member, Benjamin Williams, whom the captain specifically complained about, receive one hundred lashes, while another, Adams, was to receive twenty-five lashes. This somewhat curbed the disobedience aboard the ship, and duties improved compared to before. However, preparations for Norfolk Island progressed slowly, as four or five crew members had left. These, along with some other seamen stranded from the Royal Admiral, were either working in the colony's public boats or had joined the New South Wales corps; several well-behaved convicts had also recently been accepted into this corps to strengthen the company formed from marines under Captain Johnston's command. This company was a valuable asset, made up of many skilled soldiers from the marines, who joined voluntarily and whose behavior won the complete approval of their officers.

On the departure of the governor, the house that he had lived in was taken possession of by the oldest captain of the corps, his apartments in the officers quarters being confined, and tumbling to pieces.

On the governor's departure, the house he had lived in was taken over by the oldest captain of the corps, as his rooms in the officers' quarters were small and falling apart.

Divine service was now performed at six o'clock in the morning. For want of a building dedicated to that purpose, many inconveniences were suffered, as well by the clergyman as by those who attended him. The lieutenant-governor therefore did not require the ceremony to be performed more than once a day; and that the health of the convicts might not be injured from the heat of the sun, which at this season of the year was excessive, he directed the church call to be beat at a quarter before six in the morning. The overseers were enjoined to be particularly careful to collect as many of their gangs to attend Mr. Johnson as could conveniently be brought together; for, although it was not wished that the huts should be left without proper persons to look after them, it was nevertheless expected, that no idle excuses should keep the convicts from attending divine service.

Divine service now took place at six in the morning. Due to the lack of a dedicated building for this purpose, both the clergyman and the attendees faced many inconveniences. The lieutenant-governor, therefore, limited the ceremony to once a day, and to protect the health of the convicts from the harsh summer heat, which was extreme at this time of year, he ordered the church call to be sounded a quarter before six in the morning. The overseers were instructed to ensure that as many of their groups as possible attended Mr. Johnson’s service, as it was important that the huts were not left without proper supervision, but it was also expected that no laziness should prevent the convicts from attending divine service.

On the 10th the Hope sailed for Canton, the master having been allowed to ship three convicts, whose sentences of transportation had expired; viz Murphy, a sail-maker; Sheppard, a joiner; and Bateman, a lad who had been employed as an attendant on an officer.

On the 10th, the Hope set off for Canton, and the captain was permitted to take on three convicts whose transportation sentences had ended: Murphy, a sail-maker; Sheppard, a carpenter; and Bateman, a young man who had worked as an attendant for an officer.

At six o'clock in the evening of Tuesday the 15th, the signal which always gave satisfaction in the colony was made at the South Head; several boats went down, but when night closed it was only known that a ship was off. A large fire for the information of the stranger was made at the South Head; and at about ten o'clock the following morning, the Bellona transport, Mr. Mathew Boyd commander, anchored in the cove from England; from which place she sailed on the 8th day of August last, having on board a cargo of stores and provisions for the colony; seventeen female convicts; five settlers, and their families; Thorpe, a person engaged as a master millwright at a salary of £100 per annum; and Walter Broady, who returned to New South Wales to be employed in his former capacity of master blacksmith. The quaker families which had been expected for some time past had engaged to take their passage in the Bellona; but it was said, that they had been diverted from their purpose by some misrepresentations which had been made to them respecting this country.

At six o'clock in the evening on Tuesday the 15th, the signal that always pleased the colony was sent out at South Head; several boats went down, but by nightfall, it was only known that a ship was offshore. A large fire was lit at South Head to inform the newcomer, and around ten o'clock the next morning, the Bellona transport, commanded by Mr. Mathew Boyd, anchored in the cove after coming from England. She had set sail on August 8th, carrying a load of supplies and provisions for the colony, seventeen female convicts, five settlers and their families, Thorpe, a master millwright hired at a salary of £100 a year, and Walter Broady, who returned to New South Wales to resume his previous job as a master blacksmith. The Quaker families that had been expected for some time had planned to travel on the Bellona, but it was said they were deterred by some false information they received about this country.

Among other articles now received were five pipes of port wine and a quantity of rum, which were consigned to the governor for the purpose of being sold to the officers of the civil and military establishments at prime cost; and three thousand pounds of tobacco for the use of the soldiers of the garrison and others.

Among other items now received were five barrels of port wine and a quantity of rum, which were sent to the governor to be sold to the officers of the civil and military establishments at cost price; and three thousand pounds of tobacco for the use of the soldiers at the garrison and others.

The shameful impositions which had been practised by many who had brought out articles for sale in the colony, and the advantage which had been taken in too many instances of our necessities, had been properly stated at home, and this measure had been adopted by Government for our accommodation. The wine was immediately distributed; coming to the officer, after every expense of wharfage, etc. at £19 10s per hogshead, and the rum at five shillings per gallon. The tobacco was likely to remain for some time undisposed of, as a quantity had been lately brought into the settlement, and was selling at a lower price than could be taken for that imported by this ship; and tobacco formed a material article of the different investments in the Britannia.

The unfair practices carried out by many vendors in the colony, who exploited our needs, were appropriately reported back home, leading the Government to take action for our benefit. The wine was quickly distributed, costing the officer £19 10s per hogshead after covering all the wharf fees, and the rum was priced at five shillings per gallon. The tobacco was likely to stay unsold for a while since a large amount had recently arrived in the settlement and was being sold at a lower price than what could be charged for the tobacco brought by this ship; tobacco was an important item in the various investments in the Britannia.

With great pleasure we also found that Government, in consequence of the representations of Governor Phillip, had directed a strong substantial Russia duck to be substituted for the slight unserviceable Osnaburgs with which the convicts had been hitherto supplied.

With great pleasure, we also discovered that the Government, following the requests of Governor Phillip, had ordered a durable Russia duck to replace the flimsy, useless Osnaburgs that the convicts had been given until now.

We learned by the Bellona, that his Majesty's ship Gorgon arrived at Spithead on the 19th of June last. In her passage, which she made by Cape Horn, on the 18th of February last, being in the latitude of 51 degrees 30 minutes S and longitude 34 degrees 07 minutes W variation 13 degrees 37 minutes E she fell in with twenty-nine islands of ice. When the ship reached within three or four miles of the first of these islands, they observed one compact body, without the smallest appearance of any opening, bearing from NNE to WNW and which with some difficulty, being embayed*, they were enabled to clear, by hauling the ship from N to WSW. This was done at ten in the forenoon; they did not reach the extreme western point of the ice until five in the evening; and from the rate at which the ship sailed, from her coming up with the first island of ice, until she cleared the north-west point of the field abovementioned, it was computed that she had run full twenty leagues.

We learned from the Bellona that His Majesty's ship Gorgon arrived at Spithead on June 19th. During her journey around Cape Horn, on February 18th, while she was at a latitude of 51 degrees 30 minutes South and longitude 34 degrees 07 minutes West with a variation of 13 degrees 37 minutes East, she encountered twenty-nine ice islands. When the ship got within three or four miles of the first island, they noticed one solid mass with no signs of any openings, stretching from NNE to WNW. After some difficulty, as they were somewhat trapped, they managed to navigate around it by turning the ship from North to WSW. This maneuver was accomplished at ten in the morning; they didn't reach the far western point of the ice until five in the evening. Based on the ship's speed from the time they first spotted the ice until they cleared the northwest edge of the mentioned field, it was estimated that they had traveled a full twenty leagues.

[* When near this great body of ice, the thermometer was as low as thirty-six degrees; and it rose from that point, as she drew off, to forty degrees.]

[* When close to this massive ice formation, the temperature dropped to thirty-six degrees; and as she moved away, it increased to forty degrees.]

It must be remarked, that the Sirius, in the month of December 1788, saw several islands of ice in nearly the same latitude and longitude.

It should be noted that the Sirius, in December 1788, encountered several icebergs in almost the same latitude and longitude.

At the Cape of Good Hope Captain Parker had met with Captain Edwards of the Pandora, who delivered to him Mary Braud, the widow of Bryant, who escaped to Timor in the fishing cutter, with one of the children, and only four of the male convicts who accompanied Bryant in his flight. Bryant died at Batavia, with the other child, and two of his companions; one of them, James Cox, was said to be drowned in the Straits of Sunda. On their arrival in England the story of their sufferings in the boat excited much compassion; and, before the Bellona sailed, they had been brought up to the bar of the Old Bailey, and ordered by the court to remain in Newgate until the period of their original sentence of transportation should expire, there to finish their unsuccessful attempts to regain their liberty.

At the Cape of Good Hope, Captain Parker met Captain Edwards of the Pandora, who handed over Mary Braud, the widow of Bryant. She had escaped to Timor in a fishing cutter, along with one of her children and only four of the male convicts who had fled with Bryant. Bryant died in Batavia with the other child and two of his companions; one of them, James Cox, was reportedly drowned in the Straits of Sunda. When they arrived in England, their story of suffering in the boat drew a lot of sympathy, and before the Bellona set sail, they were brought to the bar of the Old Bailey and ordered by the court to stay in Newgate until their original transportation sentence expired, still trying unsuccessfully to regain their freedom.

While the cargo of the Bellona was landing much of it was found to be damaged; the ship had been overloaded, and had met with very boisterous weather on her passage. This practice of crowding too much into one ship had in many instances been very prejudicial to the colony; in the present instance, of the Russia duck, which was excellent in its kind, and which had cost the sum of £6636 0s 9d; sixty-eight bales, containing thirteen thousand one hundred and forty-eight yards, were damaged; sixty-nine casks of flour also were found to be much injured. Of seventy-six hogsheads of molasses, eleven hundred and seventy-two gallons were found to have leaked out; one cask of pork was stinking and rotten; seventy-nine gallons of rum, and one hundred and ninety-eight gallons of wine, were deficient, owing to improper stowage; three hundred and thirty-five hammocks, thirteen rugs, five hundred and twenty-seven yards of brown cloths, and one case of stationary, were rendered totally unfit for use. Of the articles thus found to be unserviceable to the colony, there was not one which in its proper state would not have been valuable; and when the expense attending their conveyance, the risk of the passage, the inconvenience that must be felt from the want of every damaged article, and the impossibility of getting them replaced for a great length of time, were considered, it was difficult to ascertain their precise value.

While the cargo of the Bellona was being unloaded, much of it was found to be damaged; the ship had been overloaded and faced very rough weather during its journey. This habit of packing too much into one ship had often harmed the colony; in this case, the Russia duck, which was top-notch and had cost £6636 0s 9d, had sixty-eight bales containing thirteen thousand one hundred and forty-eight yards damaged; sixty-nine casks of flour were also found to be badly affected. Of the seventy-six hogsheads of molasses, eleven hundred and seventy-two gallons had leaked out; one cask of pork was rotten and foul; seventy-nine gallons of rum and one hundred and ninety-eight gallons of wine were short due to poor stowage; three hundred and thirty-five hammocks, thirteen rugs, five hundred and twenty-seven yards of brown cloth, and one case of stationery were rendered completely unusable. Every item found to be unusable by the colony would have been valuable if it had been in good condition; and when considering the costs of transporting them, the risks of the journey, the inconvenience caused by the lack of every damaged item, and the long wait to replace them, it was hard to determine their exact value.

Among the occurrences of this month one appears to deserve particular notice. On Friday the 18th, Eleanor McCave, the wife of Charles Williams, the settler, was drowned, together with an infant child, and a woman of the name of Green. These unfortunate people had been drinking and revelling with Williams the husband and others at Sydney, and were proceeding to Parramatta in a small boat, in which was a bag of rice belonging to Green. The boat heeling considerably, and some water getting at the bag, by a movement of Green's to save her rice the boat overset near Breakfast Point, and the two women and the child were drowned. If assistance could have been obtained upon the spot, the child might have been saved; for it was forced from the wretched mother's grasp just before she finally sunk, and brought on shore by the father; but for want of medical aid it expired. The parents of this child were noted in the colony for the general immorality of their conduct; they had been rioting and fighting with each other the moment before they got into the boat; and it was said, that the woman had imprecated every evil to befal her and the infant she carried about her (for she was six months gone with child) if she accompanied her husband to Parramatta. The bodies of these two unfortunate women were found a few days afterwards, when the wretched and rascally Williams buried his wife and child within a very few feet of his own door. The profligacy of this man indeed manifested itself in a strange manner: a short time after he had thus buried his wife, he was seen sitting at his door, with a bottle of rum in his hand, and actually drinking one glass and pouring another on her grave until it was emptied, prefacing every libation by declaring how well she had loved it during her life. He appeared to be in a state not far from insanity, as this anecdote certainly testifies; but the melancholy event had not had any other effect upon his mind.

Among the events of this month, one stands out that deserves special attention. On Friday the 18th, Eleanor McCave, the wife of Charles Williams, the settler, drowned along with an infant child and a woman named Green. These unfortunate individuals had been drinking and partying with Williams and others in Sydney and were on their way to Parramatta in a small boat, which contained a bag of rice belonging to Green. The boat tilted significantly, and as some water got into the bag, Green tried to save her rice, causing the boat to capsize near Breakfast Point, resulting in the drowning of the two women and the child. If help had been available at that moment, the child might have been saved; it was pulled from the desperate mother’s grasp just before she sank and was brought to shore by the father, but due to a lack of medical assistance, it died. The parents of this child were known in the colony for their immoral behavior; they had been drinking and fighting with each other just before getting into the boat. It was said that the woman had cursed every misfortune to befall her and the child she was carrying (she was six months pregnant) if she went with her husband to Parramatta. The bodies of these two unfortunate women were discovered a few days later, and the miserable and unprincipled Williams buried his wife and child just a few feet from his own door. This man’s depravity was evident in a bizarre way: shortly after burying his wife, he was seen sitting at his door with a bottle of rum, drinking one glass and pouring another on her grave until it was empty, declaring how much she had loved it during her life with each pour. He seemed to be on the brink of insanity, as this story certainly shows; however, the tragic event had not impacted his mind in any other way.

The Kitty transport being ready for sea, on Sunday the 20th two subalterns, three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, and sixty privates, of the New South Wales corps, were embarked, for the purpose of relieving the detachment from that corps now on duty at Norfolk Island under the command of a captain, who received orders to return to this settlement.

The Kitty was all set to leave for the sea, and on Sunday the 20th, two junior officers, three sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, and sixty privates from the New South Wales corps boarded the ship to replace the troops currently stationed at Norfolk Island under a captain, who was ordered to come back to this settlement.

On board of this ship were also embarked, Mr. Clarke, the deputy-commissary for Norfolk Island; Mr. Peate, the master carpenter, who came out in the Royal Admiral; two coopers; two tailors; two officers' servants; John Chapman Morris, Benjamin Ingram (pursuant to the conditional pardon which he received from Governor Phillip), and a few women: and on the 25th she sailed.

On this ship were also Mr. Clarke, the deputy-commissary for Norfolk Island; Mr. Peate, the master carpenter who came on the Royal Admiral; two coopers; two tailors; two officers' servants; John Chapman Morris, Benjamin Ingram (following the conditional pardon he received from Governor Phillip); and a few women. She set sail on the 25th.

On Saturday the 26th, the rice being expended, the convicts received three pounds of flour, and the civil and military one pound of flour in addition to the former allowance.

On Saturday the 26th, since the rice was running out, the convicts got three pounds of flour, and the civil and military personnel received an extra pound of flour on top of their previous allowance.

In the course of this month the lieutenant-governor judged it necessary to send an officer to Parramatta, whom he could entrust with the direction of the convicts employed there and at Toongabbie in cultivation, as well as to take charge of the public grain. This business had always been executed by one of the superintendants, under the immediate inspection and orders of the governor, who latterly had dedicated the greatest part of his time and attention to these settlements. But it was attended with infinite fatigue to his excellency; and the business had now grown so extensive, that it became absolutely necessary that the person who might have the regulation of it should reside upon the spot, that he might personally enforce the execution of his orders, and be at all times ready to attend to the various applications which were constantly making from settlers.

During this month, the lieutenant-governor decided it was necessary to send an officer to Parramatta, someone he could trust to manage the convicts working there and in Toongabbie in farming, as well as oversee the public grain. This task had always been handled by one of the superintendents under the direct supervision and orders of the governor, who had recently focused most of his time and attention on these settlements. However, it was incredibly exhausting for him, and the work had grown so extensive that it became essential for the person in charge to live on-site. This way, they could personally enforce their instructions and be available to respond to the various requests from settlers at all times.

The lieutenant-governor, therefore (his presence being required at Sydney, the head-quarters of his regiment, and the seat of the government of the country) deputed this trust to Lieutenant John Macarthur, of the New South Wales corps; the superintendants, storekeepers, overseers, and convicts at the two settlements, being placed under his immediate inspection.

The lieutenant governor, needing to be in Sydney, where his regiment is based and where the government is located, assigned this responsibility to Lieutenant John Macarthur from the New South Wales corps. The superintendents, storekeepers, overseers, and convicts at the two settlements were put under his direct supervision.

Charles Gray, a man who had rendered himself notorious in the registers of this colony by repeated acts of villainy, exhibited himself again to public view at the close of this month, and at a time when every one thought him a reclaimed man. He had been sent to Norfolk Island as a place where he would have fewer opportunities of exercising his predatory abilities than at Sydney; but the law having spent its force against him, he returned to this settlement as a free man in September last. On his declaring that he was able to provide for himself, he was allowed to work for his own support, and for some time past he had cut wood and drawn water for a drummer in the New South Wales corps, a man who, by much self-denial and economy, had got together and laid up thirty-three guineas, for the prudent and laudable purpose of hereafter apprenticing his children; but having unfortunately and most indiscreetly suffered this man to know, not only that he had such a sum, but where he kept it, Gray availed himself of a convenient opportunity, and carried off the whole sum, together with a shirt which lay in his way. On being taken up (for suspicion was directly fixed on him) he readily acknowledged the theft, and either was, or pretended to be, very much in liquor. On being urged to restore the property, he sent the watchmen to search for it in different places, but without directing them to the spot where he had concealed it. At last he was taken out himself, when accidentally meeting the lieutenant-governor he threw himself on the ground, pretending to be in a fit; on which he was directly ordered to be tied up and punished with one hundred lashes. After this he would not make any discovery, and was sent to the hospital. The drummer who had suffered so materially by this wretch, although the object of pity, yet, knowing as he must have done the character of the man, was certainly entitled to no small degree of blame for trusting with a secret of such importance to his family a man who he must have known could not have withstood so great a temptation.

Charles Gray, a man who had become notorious in this colony for his repeated acts of wrongdoing, made an appearance again at the end of this month, just when everyone thought he had turned his life around. He had been sent to Norfolk Island, a place where he would have fewer chances to exploit others than in Sydney. However, once the legal consequences against him had been exhausted, he returned to this settlement as a free man last September. After claiming he could support himself, he was allowed to work for his own living, and for some time, he had been cutting wood and fetching water for a drummer in the New South Wales corps. This drummer, through hard work and saving, had managed to save up thirty-three guineas to eventually apprentice his children. Unfortunately, he indiscreetly revealed not only that he had this amount but also where he kept it. Seizing a convenient chance, Gray stole the entire sum along with a shirt that happened to be nearby. When apprehended—since suspicion quickly fell on him—he admitted to the theft and either was or pretended to be drunk. When pressed to return the money, he sent the watchmen to search various locations, not telling them where he had hidden it. Eventually, when he was taken out himself and happened to encounter the lieutenant-governor, he threw himself on the ground, pretending to be having a fit, which led to him being ordered to be tied up and whipped with a hundred lashes. After that, he refused to reveal anything and was sent to the hospital. The drummer, although a victim of Gray’s actions and deserving of sympathy, was certainly to blame for trusting someone with such an important secret, knowing full well the man's character and that he would struggle to resist such a temptation.

The lieutenant-governor proposing to open and cultivate the ground commonly known by the name of the Kangaroo Ground, situate to the westward of the town of Sydney between that settlement and Parramatta, a gang of convicts was sent from the latter place for that purpose. The soil here was much better for agriculture than that immediately adjoining to the town of Sydney, and the ground lay well for cultivation; but it had hitherto been neglected, from its being deficient in the very essential requisite of water; on which account Parramatta had been preferred to it. The eligibility of cultivating it was however now going to be tried; and, permission having been received by the Bellona to grant lands to those officers who might desire it, provided the situations of the allotments were such as might be advantageous to bona fide settlers hereafter, if they ever should fall into such hands, several officers chose this as the spot which they would cultivate, and allotments of one hundred acres each were marked out for the clergyman (who, to obtain a grant here, relinquished his right to cultivate the land allotted for the maintenance of a minister), for the principal surgeon, and for two officers of the corps.

The lieutenant-governor proposed to open up and farm the area known as Kangaroo Ground, located west of Sydney between that settlement and Parramatta. A group of convicts was sent from Parramatta for this purpose. The soil here was much better for farming than that right next to Sydney, and the land was well-suited for cultivation. However, it had been overlooked because it lacked a crucial resource: water. That’s why Parramatta had been favored instead. Now, the possibility of farming this land was about to be tested. Permission was granted to the Bellona to allocate land to any officers who were interested, as long as the locations of the plots would be beneficial for future genuine settlers, should the land end up in their hands. Several officers decided to cultivate this area, and one hundred-acre plots were designated for the clergyman (who gave up his right to farm the land designated for the minister's maintenance to get a grant here), the principal surgeon, and two officers from the corps.

February.] The settlers who came out in the Bellona having fixed on a situation at the upper part of the harbour above the Flats, and on the south side, their different allotments were surveyed and marked out; and early in this month they took possession of their grounds. Being all free people, one convict excepted, who was allowed to settle with them, they gave the appellation of 'Liberty Plains' to the district in which their farms were situated. The most respectable of these people, and apparently the best calculated for a bona fide settler, was Thomas Rose, a farmer from Dorsetshire, who came out with his family, consisting of his wife and four children. An allotment of one hundred and twenty acres was marked out for him. With him came also Frederic Meredith, who formerly belonged to the Sirius, Thomas Webb, who also belonged to the Sirius, with his nephew, and Edward Powell, who had formerly been here in the Lady Juliana transport. Powell having since his arrival married a free woman, who came out with the farmer's family, and Webb having brought a wife with him, had allotments of eighty acres marked out for each; the others had sixty each. The conditions under which they engaged to settle were, 'To have their passages provided by government*; an assortment of tools and implements to be furnished them out of the public stores; to be supplied with two years' provisions; their lands to be granted free of expense; the service of convicts also to be assigned them free of expense; and those convicts whose services might be assigned them to be supplied with two years' rations and one year's clothing.' The convict who settled with them (Walter Rouse, an industrious quiet man) came out in the first fleet, and being a bricklayer by trade they thought he might be of some service to them in constructing their huts. He had an allotment of thirty acres marked out for him.

February.] The settlers who arrived on the Bellona chose a location in the upper part of the harbor, above the Flats, on the south side. Their different plots were surveyed and marked out, and early this month, they moved onto their land. All of them were free individuals, except for one convict who was allowed to settle with them; they named the area where their farms were located 'Liberty Plains'. The most prominent among them, and seemingly the best suited to be a genuine settler, was Thomas Rose, a farmer from Dorsetshire, who came with his wife and four children. He was given a plot of one hundred and twenty acres. Along with him were Frederic Meredith, who had formerly served on the Sirius, Thomas Webb, also from the Sirius, along with his nephew, and Edward Powell, who had previously arrived on the Lady Juliana transport. Since arriving, Powell married a free woman who came with the farmer's family, and Webb brought a wife, with both receiving plots of eighty acres each; the others received sixty acres each. The agreement for their settlement included having their passages paid for by the government, receiving an assortment of tools and equipment from public stores, provision for two years, free land grants, and the assignment of convicts for their labor without charge. The convicts assigned to them would also receive two years' rations and one year's clothing. The convict who settled with them (Walter Rouse, a diligent and quiet man) arrived on the first fleet and, being a bricklayer by trade, was expected to help them build their huts. He was allotted thirty acres.

[* Government paid for each person above ten years of age the sum of eight pounds eight shillings; and allowed one shilling per diem for victualling them; and sixpence per diem for every one under that age.]

[* The government paid eight pounds and eight shillings for each person over ten years old; and provided one shilling per day for their food; and sixpence per day for each person under that age.]

Many more officers availed themselves of the assent given by government to their occupying land, and fixed, some at Parramatta and others in different parts of the harbour, where they thought the ground most likely to turn out to their convenience and advantage. They began their settlements in high spirits; the necessary tools and implements of husbandry were furnished to them from the stores; and they were allowed each the use of ten convicts. From their exertions the lieutenant-governor was sanguine in his hopes of being enabled to increase considerably the cultivation of the country; they appeared indeed to enter vigorously into these views, and not being restrained from paying for labour with spirits, they got a great deal of work done at their several farms (on those days when the convicts did not work for the public) by hiring the different gangs; the great labour of burning the timber after it was cut down requiring some such extra aid.

Many more officers took advantage of the government's approval to occupy land, settling in Parramatta and various locations around the harbor where they believed the land would be most beneficial. They began their settlements with enthusiasm; the necessary tools and equipment for farming were provided to them from the stores, and each was allowed to use ten convicts. The lieutenant-governor was optimistic about significantly increasing the cultivation of the area thanks to their efforts; they seemed genuinely committed to these goals, and since they weren't restricted from using alcohol to pay for labor, they managed to get a lot of work done on their farms (on the days when the convicts were not working for the public) by hiring different gangs, especially for the extensive task of burning the timber after it was cut down, which required some extra help.

On the 5th of the month the Bellona was discharged from government employ. Twenty-one days were allowed for the delivery of her cargo; but, by taking off the people from the brick carts, and from some other works, she was cleared within the time. This ship was of four hundred and fifty-four tons burden, and was paid by government at the rate of four pounds four shillings per ton per month. A clause was inserted in the charter-party, forbidding the master to receive any person from the colony, without the express consent and order of the governor. The governor was also empowered to take her up for the purposes of the colony should he want her; but as the Daedalus was expected, and the Kitty was already here, both in the service of government, it was not necessary to detain her, and she sailed on the 19th for Canton.

On the 5th of the month, the Bellona was released from government service. She had twenty-one days to deliver her cargo, but by removing some workers from the brick carts and other tasks, she was cleared within that time. This ship had a capacity of four hundred and fifty-four tons and the government paid her at a rate of four pounds, four shillings per ton per month. A clause was added to the charter agreement, prohibiting the captain from taking on anyone from the colony without the governor's explicit consent. The governor was also given the authority to commandeer the ship for colony needs if required; however, since the Daedalus was expected and the Kitty had already arrived, both serving the government, there wasn't a need to hold her back, and she sailed on the 19th for Canton.

The master having been permitted to receive on board two convicts (the number he requested) whose terms of transportation had expired, consented to his ship being smoked, when four people were found secreted on board, two of whom had not yet served the full periods of their sentences.

The captain, having been allowed to take on two convicts (the number he asked for) whose time of transportation was up, agreed to let his ship be searched, when four people were discovered hiding on board, two of whom had not yet completed their sentences.

To prevent this ship's coming on demurrage while her cargo was delivering, the convicts worked in their own hours, as well as those allotted to the public, under a promise of having the extra time allowed them at a future day. While this labour was in hand, the building of the barracks stood still for want of materials; it therefore became necessary, when the brick carts could again be manned, to lose no time in bringing in a sufficient number of bricks to employ the bricklayers. This having performed, they claimed their extra time, which now amounted to sixteen days. As it would have proved very inconvenient to have allowed them to remain unemployed for that number of days, the lieutenant-governor directed the commissary to issue to each person so employed half a pint of spirits per diem for sixteen days. Liquor given to them in this way operated as a benefit and a comfort to them: it was the intemperate use of spirits, procured at the expense of their clothing or their provisions, which was to be guarded against, and which operated as a serious evil.

To avoid this ship racking up charges while her cargo was being unloaded, the convicts worked during their own hours, as well as those assigned to the public, with the promise that they would be compensated for the extra time later. While this work was happening, the construction of the barracks came to a halt due to a lack of materials; so, it became essential, when the brick carts could be used again, to quickly transport enough bricks to keep the bricklayers busy. Once this was done, they asked for their extra time, which had now totaled sixteen days. Since it would have been very inconvenient to leave them idle for that long, the lieutenant-governor instructed the commissary to provide each worker with half a pint of spirits per day for sixteen days. Giving them liquor in this way served as a benefit and a comfort: it was the excessive consumption of spirits, bought at the cost of their clothing or food, that needed to be controlled and was a serious issue.

For want of sufficient store-room, it was found necessary to stow a great part of the wet provisions and flour arrived by the Bellona in tiers before the provision-store. Care was taken to shelter them from the sun and from the weather; and when the pile was completed, it was, until the eye was accustomed to the sight, an object of novelty and wonder; it never having occurred to us since we first built a store, to have more provisions than our stores could contain.

Due to not having enough storage space, we needed to stack a large portion of the wet supplies and flour that arrived on the Bellona in layers in front of the supply store. We made sure to protect them from the sun and the weather; and once the stack was finished, it was quite a sight to see, something unusual and fascinating to us. We had never thought, since the first time we built a storage facility, that we would have more supplies than we could store.

Gray, who had recovered from his last punishment, being now again urged to discover what he had done with the drummer's money, trifled until he was again punished, and then declared he had buried it in the man's garden; but being taken to the spot he could not find it, and in fact did not seem to know where to look for it. It was supposed, that, being in liquor when he committed the robbery, he was ignorant how he had disposed of the property, or that it had fallen into the hands of some person too dishonest to give it to the right owner. He was afterwards sent to the hospital, whence he made his escape into the woods.

Gray, who had gotten over his last punishment, was asked again to reveal what he did with the drummer's money. He stalled until he was punished again, and then claimed he had buried it in the man's garden. However, when taken to the spot, he couldn't find it and seemed unsure of where to look. It was believed that because he was drunk when he stole the money, he didn't remember what he did with it, or that it had ended up in the hands of someone too dishonest to return it. He was later sent to the hospital, from where he escaped into the woods.

On the evening of Sunday the 24th the signal was made at the South Head, a short time before dark, but too late to be observed at the settlement; at nine o'clock, however, information was received by the boat belonging to the South Head, that a ship from Calcutta was at anchor in the lower part of the harbour. In the morning she worked up, and anchored just without the cove. She proved to be the Shah Hormuzear, of about four hundred tons burden, commanded by Mr. Matthew Wright Bampton, from Calcutta, who had embarked some property on a private speculation for this country. Mr. Bampton, in September last, had sailed from Bombay, with a cargo of provisions and stock for this settlement; but when near the Line, his ship springing a leak, he was obliged to return, and got to Bengal, where, with the sanction of Lord Cornwallis, he took on board a fresh cargo for the colony. At Bengal he had met with Captain Manning, who sailed from hence in the Pitt in April last, and who mentioned to him such articles as he thought were most wanted in these settlements.

On the evening of Sunday the 24th, a signal was sent from the South Head just before dark, but it was too late to be seen from the settlement. However, at nine o'clock, the boat from South Head informed that a ship from Calcutta was anchored in the lower part of the harbor. In the morning, she sailed up and anchored just outside the cove. She turned out to be the Shah Hormuzear, weighing about four hundred tons and captained by Mr. Matthew Wright Bampton, who had carried some goods on a private venture for this country. Mr. Bampton had set sail from Bombay last September with a load of provisions and livestock for this settlement; however, when he was near the equator, his ship developed a leak, forcing him to turn back, and he reached Bengal. There, with Lord Cornwallis's approval, he took on a fresh cargo for the colony. In Bengal, he met Captain Manning, who had left here on the Pitt last April, and who told him about the items that were most needed in these settlements.

Mr. Bampton had on board when he sailed, one bull, twenty-four cows, two hundred and twenty sheep, one hundred and thirty goats, five horses, and six asses; together with a quantity of beef, flour, rice, wheat, gram, paddy, and sugar; a few pipes of wine, some flat iron, and copper sufficient for the sloop's bottom which had been received in frame by the Pitt, and which Captain Manning remembered to have been sent out without that necessary article; a large quantity of spirits, and some canvas. In the article of stock, however, Mr. Bampton had been very unfortunate. His cattle died; of the sheep more than half perished; one horse and three asses died; and very few of the goats survived the voyage, a voyage by no means a long one, having been performed in eight weeks wanting three days, and in good weather. This mortality evidently did not proceed from any want of proper care, but was to be ascribed to their having been embarked immediately on being taken from the fields, and consequently wanting that stamina which a sea-voyage required.

Mr. Bampton had on board when he sailed one bull, twenty-four cows, two hundred and twenty sheep, one hundred and thirty goats, five horses, and six donkeys; along with a supply of beef, flour, rice, wheat, gram, paddy, and sugar; a few casks of wine, some flat iron, and enough copper for the sloop's bottom, which had arrived in frame from the Pitt, and that Captain Manning recalled was sent out missing that essential item; a large amount of spirits, and some canvas. However, in terms of livestock, Mr. Bampton faced significant misfortunes. His cattle died; more than half of the sheep perished; one horse and three donkeys died; and very few of the goats made it through the voyage, which wasn't long at all, taking only eight weeks and three days in good weather. This high death toll clearly wasn’t due to a lack of proper care but was because they had been put on board right after being taken from the fields and therefore lacked the stamina needed for a sea voyage.

The cattle that survived was purchased by the different officers of the colony, while the other part of the cargo, the spirits and canvas excepted, were taken by government. The amount of the whole purchased by government was £9603 5s 6d; for although a supply of provisions had been lately received from England, it was but a small one, and we were not yet in possession of that plenty which would have warranted our rejecting a cargo of provisions, particularly when brought on speculation. The hour of distress might again arrive, and occasions might occur that would excite a wish, perhaps in vain, for a cargo of provisions from Bengal. In addition to these reasons, it must be remarked, that the different articles which were purchased were of the best quality, and offered on reasonable terms.

The cattle that survived were bought by various officers of the colony, while the rest of the cargo, excluding the spirits and canvas, was taken by the government. The total amount purchased by the government was £9603 5s 6d; even though we had recently received some provisions from England, it was a small amount, and we still didn't have enough abundance to turn down a cargo of provisions, especially when it was brought in on speculation. The time of need could come again, and there might be situations that would lead us to wish, perhaps in vain, for a cargo of provisions from Bengal. Additionally, it should be noted that the different items purchased were of the highest quality and offered at reasonable prices.

By this ship we received information, that the Queen transport had arrived safe at Bombay; but it was much feared that the Admiral Barrington, which sailed in company with the Queen from this place on the 6th of January 1792, was lost, as no accounts had been received of her at any port in India, a considerable time after her arrival at Bombay from Batavia might reasonably have been expected. There arrived in the Chesterfield a person who had been a convict in this country, but who had been allowed to take his passage on board the Admiral Barrington. This man quitted the Admiral Barrington at Batavia, and got to the Cape in a Dutch ship, where meeting with Mr. Alt, he embarked with him, and by the accident which brought the Chesterfield hither returned to this colony. On his arrival here, he circulated a report, that several of the convicts who had got on board of these two ships had been landed by order of the masters at an island which they met with in their passage to Batavia, inhabited indeed, but by savages; and that those who remained experienced such inhuman treatment, that they were glad to run away from them at the first port where any civilised people were to be found. He was himself among this number, and now declared that he was ready to make oath to the truth of his relation if it should be required. If there was any truth in his account, and the masters of these ships did actually turn any people on shore in the manner already described, it was more than probable that an act of such apparent cruelty had been occasioned by some attempt of the convicts to take the ships from them; and the numbers which were supposed to have been on board (seventeen) rather justified the supposition. Captain Manning, of the Pitt, who had taken from this settlement twenty men and nine women, found them so useless and troublesome, that he was very glad to leave the greatest part of them at Batavia*, and now declared that he regretted ever having received them on board. When these circumstances should be made public, it was thought that the masters of ships would not be so desirous of recruiting their ships' companies from among the inhabitants of this colony.

By this ship, we learned that the Queen transport had arrived safely in Bombay; however, there were serious concerns that the Admiral Barrington, which had set sail with the Queen from this place on January 6, 1792, was lost, as no updates had been received from her at any port in India long after her arrival in Bombay from Batavia had been expected. A person who had been a convict in this country arrived on the Chesterfield, but he had been allowed to travel on the Admiral Barrington. This man left the Admiral Barrington at Batavia and managed to reach the Cape on a Dutch ship, where he met Mr. Alt, and boarded with him. The incident that brought the Chesterfield here allowed him to return to this colony. Upon his arrival, he spread a report that several convicts who had boarded these two ships were landed by the captains on an island they encountered on their way to Batavia, which was inhabited, but by savages; and that those who remained encountered such brutal treatment that they were eager to escape at the first port where they could find any civilized people. He claimed to be one of this group and said he was ready to swear to the truth of his story if needed. If there was any truth to his account, and if the captains of these ships really did leave people onshore as described, it was likely that an act of such obvious cruelty was prompted by some attempt by the convicts to seize the ships. The estimated number of people on board (seventeen) supported this assumption. Captain Manning of the Pitt, who had taken twenty men and nine women from this settlement, found them to be so useless and troublesome that he was very relieved to leave most of them in Batavia and now regretted ever having taken them on board. Once these details became public, it was believed that ship captains would be less inclined to recruit their crews from the residents of this colony.

[* At that grave of Europeans the Pitt lost eighteen of her people.]

[* At that grave of Europeans, the Pitt lost eighteen of its crew.]

The grain called dholl, which had been issued as part of the ration at the rate of three pints per man per week since the arrival of the Atlantic, was discontinued on the 25th, the whole of that article having been served out. It had been found useful for stock.

The grain known as dholl, which had been given out as part of the ration at three pints per person per week since the arrival of the Atlantic, was stopped on the 25th, as all of that supply had been distributed. It had proven to be beneficial for livestock.

At Toongabbie the workmen were now employed in constructing a barn and granary upon a very extensive scale.

At Toongabbie, the workers were now busy building a large barn and granary.

Among the females who died this month was one, a stout healthy young woman, of the name of Martha Todd, who came out in the Mary Ann, and fell a victim to a dysenteric complaint, which seized her after drinking too freely of the pernicious spirits which had been lately introduced into the colony. The same fate attended James Hatfield, a man who had been looked upon as a sober good character. He was on the point of obtaining a grant of land, and came from Parramatta to Sydney for the purpose of speaking about his allotment, when, unfortunately, he met with some of his friends, and partaking intemperately of the American rum, he was seized with a dysentery, which carried him off in a few days. In this way many others were affected after drinking, through want of a sufficient stamina to overcome the effect of the spirit.

Among the women who died this month was a strong, healthy young woman named Martha Todd, who arrived on the Mary Ann and fell victim to a dysentery after drinking too much of the harmful spirits that had recently been brought into the colony. The same fate befell James Hatfield, a man who was considered to be of good character. He was about to secure a land grant and had come from Parramatta to Sydney to discuss his allotment when, unfortunately, he ran into some friends. After indulging excessively in American rum, he was struck by dysentery, which took his life within a few days. Many others were similarly affected after drinking because they lacked the stamina to cope with the effects of the alcohol.

March.] The repairs of the Chesterfield having been completed, she was on the point of proceeding to sea, when the lieutenant-governor proposed to the master for the sum of £120 to take on board a freight of provisions for Norfolk Island; which he consenting to, she was hauled alongside the ship from Bengal, and a certain proportion of grain was put into her; after which, such salt provisions and stores as were intended to be conveyed by her were sent from the colony, and on the 10th she sailed for Norfolk Island.

March.] The repairs on the Chesterfield were finished, and she was about to head out to sea when the lieutenant-governor offered the captain £120 to load supplies for Norfolk Island. Since he agreed, she was brought alongside the ship from Bengal, and a portion of grain was loaded onto her. After that, the salt provisions and stores meant for her journey were sent from the colony, and on the 10th, she set sail for Norfolk Island.

In lieu of the three pints of dholl, which were now discontinued, an additional pound of flour was served; the civil and military receiving eight pounds, and the convicts seven pounds of flour per week, from the 9th; and in order to make a little room in the store, and that the officers might be accommodated with a better kind of flour, they were permitted to receive from the commissary two casks of American flour each, which were to be deducted from their ration.

In place of the three pints of dholl, which were no longer available, an extra pound of flour was provided; the civil and military personnel received eight pounds, and the convicts received seven pounds of flour per week, starting on the 9th. To make some space in the store and to allow the officers to get a higher quality flour, they were allowed to take two casks of American flour each from the commissary, which would be deducted from their ration.

The ship from Bengal, which was manned with Lascars, had no sooner hauled into the cove, and opened a communication with the shore, than a practice commenced among the convicts of disposing of the slops and blankets which they had lately received to the Lascars, who, trembling with the cold even of this climate, very readily availed themselves of their propensity to part with them; which was so great, that it became necessary to punish with severity such offenders as were detected.

The ship from Bengal, crewed by Lascars, had barely docked in the cove and established a connection with the shore when the convicts began trading away the leftover food and blankets they had recently received to the Lascars, who, shivering from the cold even in this climate, were quick to take advantage of the situation. Their willingness to trade became so excessive that it was necessary to impose harsh punishments on those caught doing it.

On Tuesday the 12th the signal was made at the South Head, and by the noon of the following day two Spanish ships anchored in the lower part of the harbour. An officer from one of them arriving at the settlement, we learned that they were the two ships of whose expected arrival information had been received from government in the year 1790; and to whom it was recommended that every attention should be paid. They were named the Descuvierta and Atrevida (the Discovery and the Intrepid); the former commanded by Don Alexandro Malaspina, with a broad pendant as the commander of the expedition, and the latter by Don Jose de Bustamante y Guerra. They had been three years and a half from Europe on a voyage of discovery and information; and were now arrived from Manilla, after a passage of ninety-six days; touching in their way hither at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, from which they had sailed about a fortnight.

On Tuesday the 12th, the signal was sent out at South Head, and by noon the next day, two Spanish ships anchored in the lower part of the harbor. An officer from one of them arrived at the settlement, and we learned that they were the two ships whose arrival had been anticipated based on information received from the government in 1790; it was recommended that they receive every attention. They were named the Descuvierta and Atrevida (the Discovery and the Intrepid); the former was commanded by Don Alexandro Malaspina, who had a broad pendant signifying he was the commander of the expedition, and the latter was commanded by Don Jose de Bustamante y Guerra. They had spent three and a half years on a voyage of exploration and gathering information, and had just arrived from Manilla after a journey of ninety-six days, stopping along the way at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, from which they had sailed about two weeks ago.

On their coming up, they anchored just abreast of the two points which form Sydney Cove, declining saluting, as it was not in our power to return it. These ships were of three hundred and five tons burden each, and were built for the particular voyage on which they were sent. Great care was observable in their construction, both as to the strength of the vessels and the accommodation of the officers and the equipage. They were well manned, and had, beside the officers customary in king's ships, a botanist and limner on board each vessel.

On their arrival, they anchored right next to the two points that make up Sydney Cove, choosing not to salute since we couldn’t return the gesture. Each of these ships weighed three hundred and five tons and was specifically built for this journey. There was noticeable attention to their construction, both in terms of the vessel's strength and the comfort of the officers and equipment. They were well-staffed and included, in addition to the usual officers found on royal ships, a botanist and an artist on each vessel.

They had visited all the Spanish possessions in South America and other parts of the world, ascertaining with precision their boundaries and situations; gaining much information respecting their customs and manners, their importance with regard to the mother country, their various productions commercial, agricultural, botanical, and mineral. For all which purposes the officers on board appeared to have been selected with the happiest success. They most forcibly reminded us of the unfortunate Count de la Perouse and his followers, of whom these gentlemen had only heard that they were no more; and for whose destiny they expressed a feeling arising from their having traversed the ocean in the same pursuit, and followed in the same path. Equally sincere and polite as Count de la Perouse, the Spanish commodore paid a tribute to the abilities and memory of our circumnavigator Cook, in whose steps the Chevalier Malaspina, who was an Italian marquis and a knight of Malta, declared it was a pleasure to follow, as it left him nothing to attend to, but to remark the accuracy of his observations. They lost at the island of Luconia Don Antonio Pineda, a colonel of the Spanish guards, who was charged with that department of the expedition which respected the natural history of the places they visited. They spoke of him in high terms as a man of science and a gentleman, and favoured us with an engraving of the monument which they had caused to be erected over his grave at the place where he died; and from which the following inscription was copied:

They had explored all the Spanish territories in South America and other parts of the world, accurately determining their borders and locations; gathering extensive information about their customs and way of life, their significance to the mother country, and their various commercial, agricultural, botanical, and mineral products. The officers on board seemed to have been chosen with remarkable success for these objectives. They strongly reminded us of the unfortunate Count de la Perouse and his crew, of whom these men had only heard were gone; they expressed a sentiment derived from having crossed the ocean in the same quest and followed the same journey. Just as sincere and courteous as Count de la Perouse, the Spanish commodore paid tribute to the skills and memory of our circumnavigator Cook, whose path the Chevalier Malaspina, an Italian marquis and a knight of Malta, stated was a pleasure to follow, as it left him with nothing to do but note the precision of his observations. They lost Don Antonio Pineda, a colonel of the Spanish guards, at the island of Luconia, who was responsible for the natural history aspect of their expedition. They praised him highly as a scholar and a gentleman, and shared an engraving of the monument they had erected over his grave at the site of his death; from which the following inscription was copied:

ANTONIO . PINEDA .
Tribuno . Militum .
Virtute . In . Patriam . Bello . Armisque . Insigni .
Naturae . Demum . Indefesso . Scrutatori .
Trienni . Arduo . Itinere . Orbis . Extrema . Adiit .
Telluris . Viscera . Pelagi . Abyssos . Andiumque . Cacumina. Lustrans .
Vitae . Simul . Et . Laborum . Gravium .
Diem . Supremum . Obiit . In . Luconia . Phillipicarum .
VI Calendas . Julii . M.D.C.C.X.C.II.
Prematuram . Optimi . Mortem .
Luget . Patria . Luget . Fauna . Lugent . Amici .
Qui . Hocce . Posuere . Monumenturn .

ANTONIO Pineda  
Tribune of the Soldiers  
He was extraordinary in his service to the country, in war and arms.  
Ultimately, he was an indefatigable explorer of nature.  
After a hard three-year journey, he reached the farthest corners of the world.  
He traversed the depths of the Earth, the abyss of the ocean, and the peaks of the Andes.  
At the same time, he lived a life of heavy labor.  
He passed away in Luconia, in the Philippine Islands,  
on July 6, 1792.  
The homeland mourns the premature death of this great man.  
The country weeps, the fauna weeps, friends weep.  
Those who set up this monument.

The monument was designed by Don Fernando Brambila, the landscape-painter on board the Atrevida; and the inscription did credit to the classical knowledge of Senor Don Fadeo Heencke, the botanist on board the Descuvierta.

The monument was designed by Don Fernando Brambila, the landscape painter on board the Atrevida; and the inscription acknowledged the classical knowledge of Señor Don Fadeo Heencke, the botanist on board the Descuvierta.

Having requested permission to erect an observatory, they chose the point of the cove on which a small brick hut had been built for Bennillong by Governor Phillip, making use of the hut to secure their instruments. They did not profess to be in want of much assistance; but such as they did require was directed to be furnished them without any expense; it was indeed too inconsiderable to become an object of charge.

Having asked for permission to set up an observatory, they selected the spot on the cove where Governor Phillip had constructed a small brick hut for Bennillong, using the hut to store their instruments. They didn't claim to need much help; however, any assistance they did require was to be provided at no cost, as it was really too minor to warrant any expense.

The arrival of these strangers, together with that of the ship from Bengal, gave a pleasant diversity to the dull routine that commonly prevailed in the town of Sydney; everyone striving to make their abode among us as cheerful as possible, and to convince them, that though severed from the mother country, and residing in woods and among savages, we had not forgotten the hospitalities due to a stranger.

The arrival of these newcomers, along with the ship from Bengal, brought a welcome change to the usual monotony that often marked life in Sydney; everyone tried to make their homes as welcoming as possible to show them that even though we were far from our homeland and living in the wilderness among indigenous people, we hadn't forgotten how to treat a guest.

The commission of offences was now so frequent, that it had become necessary to assemble the criminal court during this month; and William Ashford, a lad who had been drummed out of the New South Wales corps, was tried for stealing several articles of wearing apparel from some of the convicts; of which being convicted, he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes.

The commission of crimes was now so common that it became necessary to hold the criminal court this month; and William Ashford, a guy who had been kicked out of the New South Wales corps, was tried for stealing several pieces of clothing from some of the convicts; upon being found guilty, he was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes.

On the 21st the Kitty returned from Norfolk Island, having on board Captain Paterson and his company of the new corps, together with a number of free people and convicts; amounting in all to one hundred and seventy-two persons; Governor King having been desired to get rid of any such characters as might be dangerous or troublesome to him.

On the 21st, the Kitty came back from Norfolk Island, carrying Captain Paterson and his crew from the new corps, along with a group of free people and convicts; totaling one hundred and seventy-two individuals. Governor King had been asked to remove any characters that might pose a danger or cause trouble for him.

Mr. King wrote very favourably of the state of the settlements, under his command. The crops of wheat and maize had produced so abundantly, as to insure him a sufficiency of that article for the next twelve months. The inhabitants were healthy; and such had been the effects of some wholesome regulations, and the attention of the magistrates to enforce them, that for the last three months not any offence deserving of punishment had been committed, nor a cob of corn purloined either of private or public property.

Mr. King wrote very positively about the state of the settlements under his command. The crops of wheat and corn had produced so abundantly that he was set for a sufficient supply of both for the next twelve months. The residents were healthy; and due to some good regulations and the magistrates’ commitment to enforce them, there hadn’t been any offenses deserving of punishment in the last three months, nor had any ears of corn been stolen from private or public property.

At the departure of the Kitty, he was busied in erecting some necessary buildings, as barracks, a granary, storehouses, etc. and had completed a very excellent house for his own use. Lime-stone having been found in great abundance on Norfolk Island, enabled him to build with some extent and security than had hitherto been done even in New South Wales. Several casks of this useful article were now imported in the Kitty, with a quantity of plank.

At the departure of the Kitty, he was busy building essential structures like barracks, a granary, and storehouses, and had finished a very nice house for himself. With limestone found abundantly on Norfolk Island, he was able to construct buildings more extensively and securely than had been done before, even in New South Wales. Several barrels of this useful material were now imported on the Kitty, along with a supply of planks.

Captain Johnston's company in the new corps received some addition by this ship. Eight of the marine settlers, whose grounds, on extending the lines of their allotments, were found to intersect each other, and who had declined such accommodation as Governor King thought it proper to offer them, had resigned their farms, and preferred returning to their former profession.

Captain Johnston's company in the new corps got some reinforcements from this ship. Eight of the marine settlers, whose land, when the boundaries of their allotments were expanded, ended up overlapping, and who had turned down the help that Governor King thought was appropriate to offer them, had given up their farms and chose to go back to their previous profession.

Toward the latter end of the month information was received of some nefarious practices which had been carrying on at the store at Parramatta; the sum of which was, that the two convicts who had been employed in issuing the provisions under the storekeeper had been for some time in the habit of serving out on each issuing-day an extra allowance of provisions to one, or occasionally to two messes. The messes consisted of six people, and one of these six (taking any mess he chose) used to be previously informed by one or other of the convicts who served the provisions, that an extra allowance for the whole mess would be served to him, which he was to receive and convey away, taking care to return the allowance to them at night, then to be divided into three shares. To accomplish this fraud, an opportunity was to be taken of the storekeeper's absence, which might happen during the course of a long serving, and for which they took care to watch. On his return the mess for which one allowance had just been served was publicly called, and the whole served a second time. With this practice they had trusted nine or ten different people; and the wife of one man, who had assisted in the crime, in a fit of drunkenness confessed the whole.

Toward the end of the month, information was received about some shady practices happening at the store in Parramatta. The gist of it was that two convicts, who had been working under the storekeeper to hand out provisions, had been regularly giving an extra allowance of provisions on each issuing day to one, or sometimes two messes. Each mess consisted of six people, and one of these six (whichever mess he chose) would be tipped off by one of the convicts about receiving an extra allowance for the entire mess. He was supposed to take the extra provisions and bring them back at night, where it would then be divided into three shares. To pull off this scam, they waited for the storekeeper to be absent, which could happen during a long shift, and they made sure to keep an eye on his return. When the mess for which an extra allowance had just been given was called, they would serve it all again. They managed to trick nine or ten different people this way, and the wife of one man involved, in a drunken stupor, confessed to the whole scheme.

On examination before the judge-advocate it appeared, in addition to the above circumstances, that this scheme had been carried on for about two months past; but there was little doubt of its having existed much longer.

On examination before the judge-advocate, it became clear that this plan had been in operation for about two months; however, there was little doubt that it had been going on for much longer.

It was no difficult matter to discover the persons who had assisted in this practice; and on their being taken up several confessed the share that they and others had had in it: upon which the lieutenant-governor ordered them all to be severely punished.

It wasn’t hard to find the people who had helped with this practice; when they were caught, several admitted their involvement and that of others. As a result, the lieutenant-governor ordered them all to be punished harshly.

In the Kitty arrived one of the superintendants who had at Norfolk Island been employed in manufacturing the flax plant; but which, for want of some necessary tools, he could not bring to much perfection. These had been written for to England, and he came hither to be employed at these settlements till they should arrive. He was now sent up to Toongabbie, to superintend the delivery of provisions at that place.

In the Kitty, one of the superintendents who had been working with the flax plant at Norfolk Island arrived; however, due to the lack of some essential tools, he wasn't able to achieve much success. These tools had been requested from England, and he came here to work at these settlements until they arrived. He was now sent up to Toongabbie to oversee the distribution of provisions at that location.

Notwithstanding the orders which had been given respecting spirits being in the possession of the convicts, on a search made in some suspected houses, fourteen or fifteen gallons were found in one night; and, being seized by the watchmen and the guard, were divided among them as a stimulus to future vigilance. The evil effect of this spirit was perceptible in the number of prisoners which were to be found every morning in the watch-house; for, when intoxicated, it could not be expected that people of this description would be very careful to avoid breaking the peace.

Notwithstanding the orders regarding the possession of alcohol by the convicts, during a search of some suspected houses, fourteen or fifteen gallons were discovered in one night. The watchmen and the guard seized it, and divided it among themselves as a reward to encourage future vigilance. The negative impact of this alcohol was evident in the number of prisoners found every morning in the watch-house; because when intoxicated, it was unrealistic to expect that these individuals would be careful about maintaining the peace.

CHAPTER XXI

The Spanish ships are sailing
The Chesterfield returns from Norfolk Island
A contract has been signed to bring cattle from India to this country
Provisions loaded onto the Bengal ship for Norfolk Island
The Daedalus arrives
Cattle have been lost
Discoveries made by Captain Vancouver
Two natives from New Zealand have been brought in
The Bengal ship sets sail
There’s a phenomenon in the sky
The work hours and rations have been changed
Lead has been stolen
The detachment at Parramatta has been relieved
There was an accident at that settlement
Lands cleared by the officers
A mutiny occurred on board the Kitty
The Kitty departs for England
His Majesty's birthday
Condition of the provision store
The Britannia has arrived
Loss of cattle
General report on cattle purchased, lost during the journey, and landed in New South Wales
Natives

April.] The Spanish officers having nearly completed the astronomical observations which the commodore thought it necessary to make in this port, that officer signified his intention of shortly putting to sea on the further prosecution of the instructions and orders which he had received from his court. Previous to their departure, however, the lieutenant-governor, with the officers of the settlement and of the corps, were entertained first on board the Descuvierta, and the next day on board the Atrevida, the lieutenant-governor being each day received with a salute of nine guns, with the Spanish flag hoisted on the foretopmast-head, being the compliment that is paid in the Spanish service to a lieutenant-general. The dinner was prepared and served up after their own custom, and bore every appearance of having been furnished from a plentiful market.* The healths of our respective sovereigns, being united in one wish, were drank with every token of approbation, under a discharge of cannon; and 'Prosperity to the British colonies in New South Wales' concluded the ceremonials of each day.

April.] The Spanish officers were nearly done with the astronomical observations that the commodore deemed essential to carry out in this port, and he indicated his plan to set sail soon to continue following the orders and instructions he had received from his government. Before they left, though, the lieutenant-governor, along with the settlement officers and the military corps, were hosted first on board the Descuvierta, and the following day on board the Atrevida, with the lieutenant-governor being greeted each day with a salute of nine cannon shots, while the Spanish flag was raised at the foretopmast-head—this is the honor given in the Spanish service to a lieutenant-general. The dinner was prepared and served in their usual style, and it looked like it came from a bountiful market.* The toasts to our respective monarchs, united in a common wish, were celebrated with every sign of approval, accompanied by cannon fire; and 'Prosperity to the British colonies in New South Wales' wrapped up the festivities of each day.

[* A small cow from Monterrey was sacrificed on the occasion]

[* A small cow from Monterrey was sacrificed for the occasion]

The commodore presented the lieutenant-governor with two drawings of this settlement, and one of Parramatta, done in Indian ink, by F. Brambila; together with a copy of the astronomical observations which had been made at the observatory, and at Parramatta. From these it appeared that the longitude of the observatory which they had erected at the Point, deduced from forty-two sets of distances of the sun and moon, taken on the morning of the 2nd of this month, was 151 degrees 18 minutes 8 seconds E from Greenwich; and the latitude, 33 degrees 51 minutes 28 seconds S. The latitude of the governor's house at Parramatta was 33 degrees 48 minutes 0 seconds S; and the distance west from the observatory about nineteen miles.

The commodore gave the lieutenant-governor two drawings of this settlement and one of Parramatta, created in Indian ink by F. Brambila, along with a copy of the astronomical observations made at the observatory and at Parramatta. From these observations, it was determined that the longitude of the observatory they set up at the Point, calculated from forty-two sets of distances of the sun and moon taken on the morning of the 2nd of this month, was 151 degrees 18 minutes 8 seconds East from Greenwich; and the latitude was 33 degrees 51 minutes 28 seconds South. The latitude of the governor's house at Parramatta was 33 degrees 48 minutes 0 seconds South, and it was located about nineteen miles west from the observatory.

The commodore left a packet with dispatches for the Spanish ambassador at the court of London, to be forwarded by the first ship which should depart hence direct for England; and on the 12th both ships sailed. Their future route was never exactly spoken of by them; but, from what the officers occasionally threw out, it appeared that they expected to be in Europe in about fourteen months from their departure. They spoke of visiting the Society and Friendly Islands, and of proceeding again to the coast of South America.

The commodore left a packet with messages for the Spanish ambassador at the court in London, to be sent by the first ship that left directly for England; and on the 12th, both ships set sail. They never explicitly discussed their future route, but from what the officers occasionally hinted at, it seemed they expected to be in Europe about fourteen months after their departure. They mentioned plans to visit the Society and Friendly Islands and to head back to the coast of South America.

As it had been the general wish to render the residence of these strangers among us as pleasant as our situation would allow, we received with great satisfaction the expressions of regret which they testified at their departure, a regret that was at least equally felt on our part. Our society was very small; we could not therefore but sensibly feel the departure of these gentlemen, who united to much scientific knowledge those qualities of the heart which render men amiable in society; and the names of Malaspina, Bustamante, Tova, Espinosa, Concha, Cevallos, Murphy*, Robredo, Quintano, Viana, Novales, Pineda**, Bauza, Heencke***, Nee***, Ravenet****, and Brambila****, were not likely to be soon forgotten by the officers of this settlement. During their stay here, the greatest harmony subsisted between the seamen of the two ships and our people, the latter in but few instances exercising their nimble-fingered talents among them; such, however, as did choose to hazard a display, and were detected, were severely punished.

As it had been the general desire to make the stay of these strangers among us as enjoyable as possible under the circumstances, we were very pleased by the expressions of regret they showed at their departure, a sentiment that we felt just as strongly. Our community was quite small; thus, we couldn't help but feel the absence of these gentlemen, who brought not only significant scientific knowledge but also the qualities that make people pleasant in social settings. The names Malaspina, Bustamante, Tova, Espinosa, Concha, Cevallos, Murphy*, Robredo, Quintano, Viana, Novales, Pineda**, Bauza, Heencke***, Nee***, Ravenet****, and Brambila****, would not soon be forgotten by the officers of this settlement. During their time here, there was great harmony between the crew of the two ships and our people, although our people only occasionally showcased their skills among them; those who did choose to perform and were caught faced severe punishment.

[* This gentleman was of Irish extraction.]

[* This man was of Irish descent.]

[** Brother of D. A. Pineda.]

[*** The botanists.]

[*** The plant scientists.]

[**** The limner, and landscape-painter.]

[**** The illustrator and landscape artist.]

A few days before these ships left us, the Chesterfield returned (after an absence of only thirty days) from Norfolk Island, where she landed safely every thing she had on board for that settlement. Mr. Alt anchored for some days in Cascade Bay, where Governor King had constructed a wharf, and had hopes of making the landing more convenient that could ever be practicable at Sydney Bay. This was truly a desideratum, as few ships had gone to this island without having in the course of their stay either been blown off, or been in some danger on the shore. It was understood that scarcely any thing less than a miracle could have saved the Kitty from being wrecked on a rock just off the reef.

A few days before these ships left us, the Chesterfield returned (after being away for only thirty days) from Norfolk Island, where she successfully delivered everything she had on board for that settlement. Mr. Alt anchored for a few days in Cascade Bay, where Governor King had built a wharf and hoped to make the landing more convenient than would ever be possible at Sydney Bay. This was truly a necessity, as few ships had come to this island without encountering either strong winds or being in some danger on the shore during their stay. It was understood that only a miracle could have saved the Kitty from being wrecked on a rock just off the reef.

The master of the Shah Hormuzear having laid before the lieutenant-governor some proposals for bringing cattle to this country, they were taken into consideration; and as the introducing cattle into the colony was a most desirable object, and Bengal had been pointed out as the settlement from which they were to be procured, after some days a contract was entered into between Mr. Bampton on his own part, and the lieutenant-governor on behalf of the crown, wherein it was covenanted, that Mr. Bampton should freight at some port in India a ship with one hundred head of large draught cattle; one hundred and fifty tons of the best provision rice, and one hundred and fifty tons of dholl, both articles to be equal in quality to samples then produced and approved of, and one hundred tons of the best Irish cured beef or pork; or, in lieu of the salt provisions, fifty tons of rice. For the cattle, it was covenanted on the part of the crown that Mr. Bampton should receive at the rate of thirty-five pounds sterling per head for all that he should land in a merchantable condition in the colony; for the rice he was to be paid twenty-six pounds sterling, and for the dholl eighteen pounds sterling, for every merchantable ton which should be landed; and, lastly, for the salt provisions he was to receive four-pence halfpenny per pound for all that should be landed in proper condition. In this contract there were several conditions and restrictions, and the master was bound in one thousand five hundred pounds penalty to fulfil them.

The captain of the Shah Hormuzear presented some proposals to the lieutenant-governor for bringing cattle to this country, which were considered seriously. Since introducing cattle into the colony was highly desirable, and Bengal was identified as the place to source them, a few days later, a contract was made between Mr. Bampton and the lieutenant-governor on behalf of the crown. The agreement stated that Mr. Bampton would arrange to load a ship at a port in India with one hundred large draught cattle, one hundred fifty tons of the best quality provision rice, and one hundred fifty tons of dholl, both of which had to meet the quality of the approved samples, as well as one hundred tons of high-quality Irish cured beef or pork; alternatively, he could substitute fifty tons of rice for the salt provisions. For the cattle, the crown agreed to pay Mr. Bampton thirty-five pounds sterling for each head that he successfully delivered in good condition to the colony; he would earn twenty-six pounds sterling for every merchantable ton of rice and eighteen pounds sterling for each merchantable ton of dholl that he brought in. Lastly, for the salt provisions, he would receive four-pence halfpenny per pound for everything that was delivered properly. The contract included several conditions and restrictions, and Mr. Bampton was liable for a penalty of one thousand five hundred pounds if he failed to fulfill them.

The lieutenant-governor, wishing to send a supply to Norfolk Island sufficient to place that settlement, as far as depended upon him, in a comfortable state in point of provisions, engaged the Shah Hormuzear to carry two hundred and twenty tons of provisions thither for the sum of £220; and the quantity now sent, added to what the Kitty and Chesterfield had already conveyed, insured to Governor King provisions for more than twelve months for all his people at the full ration. Mr. Bampton engaging the Chesterfield to carry some part of these provisions, both ships began taking them in, and by the 19th had quitted the cove, intending to sail the following morning; but the signal being made for a sail at daylight, they waited to see the event.

The lieutenant governor, wanting to send enough supplies to Norfolk Island to ensure that settlement was in a good state in terms of provisions, hired the Shah Hormuzear to transport two hundred and twenty tons of supplies there for £220. The amount sent now, combined with what the Kitty and Chesterfield had already delivered, guaranteed Governor King enough provisions for more than twelve months for all his people at full rations. Mr. Bampton arranged for the Chesterfield to carry some of these supplies, and both ships started loading them. By the 19th, they had left the cove, planning to set sail the next morning; however, when a signal was made for a sail at dawn, they decided to wait and see what would happen.

At the close of the evening of the 10th the Daedalus storeship anchored in the cove, from the north-west coast of America. The Daedalus left England with a cargo of provisions and stores, consisting chiefly of articles of traffic, for the use of the vessels under the command of Captain Vancouver, whom she joined at Nootka Sound on the north-west coast of America, and it was designed that she should, after delivering her cargo, be dispatched to this colony with such stock as she might be able to procure from the different islands whereat she might touch, and be afterwards employed as the service might require, should Captain Vancouver not make any application for her return; which was thought probable, as well as that he might require some assistance from the colony.

At the end of the evening on the 10th, the Daedalus supply ship anchored in the cove off the north-west coast of America. The Daedalus had departed from England with a load of supplies, mainly goods for trade, intended for the ships under Captain Vancouver, whom she met at Nootka Sound on the north-west coast of America. The plan was for her to deliver her cargo and then head to this colony to acquire whatever supplies she could gather from the various islands she visited. She would then be used as needed unless Captain Vancouver requested her return, which was considered likely, as he might also need help from the colony.

Captain Vancouver, after taking out as much of the cargo as could be received on board the vessels under his command, dispatched her according to his orders, although not so early as he could have wished, owing to particular circumstances; and he was now obliged to send with her a requisition for the remainder of the provisions and stores being returned to him, together with a certain quantity of provisions from the colony; the whole to be dispatched from hence so as to join him either at Nootka, or some of the Sandwich islands, in the month of October next.

Captain Vancouver, after loading as much cargo as he could onto his ships, sent her off as instructed, though not as soon as he'd hoped because of certain circumstances. He had to include a request for the rest of the supplies and materials being returned to him, along with a specific amount of provisions from the colony. Everything was to be sent from here to meet him either at Nootka or one of the Sandwich Islands in October.

The agent Lieutenant Richard Hergist, who left England in this ship, was unfortunately killed, together with a Mr. Gootch (an astronomer, on his way to join Captain Vancouver) and one seaman, at Wahool one of the Sandwich Islands, where they touched to procure refreshments. Captain Vancouver had replaced this officer, by Lieutenant James Hanson, of the Chatham armed-tender, who now arrived in the ship.

The agent Lieutenant Richard Hergist, who left England on this ship, was sadly killed, along with a Mr. Gootch (an astronomer heading to join Captain Vancouver) and one seaman, at Wahool, one of the Sandwich Islands, where they stopped to get supplies. Captain Vancouver had replaced this officer with Lieutenant James Hanson from the Chatham armed-tender, who now arrived on the ship.

On board of the Daedalus were embarked at Monterrey, a Spanish settlement at a short distance from Nootka, six bulls, twelve cows, six rams, and eight ewes; and at Otaheite, Lieutenant Hanson took on board upwards of one hundred hogs (most of them, unluckily, barrows) of all which stock four sheep and about eighty hogs only survived the passage. The loss of the cattle was attributed to their having been caught wild from the woods, and put on board without ever having tasted dry food. The major part of the hogs, apparently of a fine breed, arrived in very poor condition.

On the Daedalus, which was docked at Monterrey, a Spanish settlement not far from Nootka, they loaded six bulls, twelve cows, six rams, and eight ewes. At Otaheite, Lieutenant Hanson took on board over one hundred pigs (most of them, unfortunately, males). Out of all this livestock, only four sheep and about eighty pigs survived the journey. The loss of the cattle was blamed on them being caught wild from the woods and put on board without ever having eaten dry food. Most of the pigs, which seemed to be of good breed, arrived in very poor condition.

Lieutenant Hanson, having touched at the northernmost island of New Zealand, brought away with him two natives of that country, having received directions to that effect for the purpose of instructing the settlers at Norfolk Island in the manufacture of the flax plant. They were both young men, and, as they arrived before the departure of the Shah Hormuzear, the lieutenant-governor determined to send them at once to Norfolk Island.

Lieutenant Hanson, after stopping at the northernmost island of New Zealand, brought back two locals, as he had been instructed to help teach the settlers at Norfolk Island how to process the flax plant. Both were young men, and since they arrived before the departure of the Shah Hormuzear, the lieutenant-governor decided to send them immediately to Norfolk Island.

Captain Vancouver transmitted by Lieutenant Hanson a chart and drawings of a spacious harbour, which he discovered on the southwest coast of this country, and which he named King George the Third's Sound. Its situation was without the line prescribed as the boundary of the British possessions in this country, being in the latitude of 35 degrees 05 minutes 30 seconds South, and longitude 118 degrees 34 minutes 0 seconds E. He also sent an account of the discovery of a dangerous cluster of rocks, which he named the Snares, the largest of which was about a league in circuit, and lay in latitude 48 degrees 03 minutes S and longitude 166 degrees 20 minutes East, bearing from the South-end of New Zealand S 40 degrees W true, twenty leagues distant; and from the southernmost part of the Traps (rocks discovered by Captain Cook) S 67½ degrees W true, twenty leagues distant. The largest of these rocks, which was the highest and the northeasternmost, might be seen in clear weather about eight or nine leagues: the whole cluster was composed of seven barren rocks, extending in a direction about N 70 degrees E and S 70 degrees W true, occupying the space of about three leagues.

Captain Vancouver sent a chart and drawings of a large harbor he found on the southwest coast of this country, which he named King George the Third's Sound, through Lieutenant Hanson. This location was outside the boundary line defined for British possessions in this country, situated at a latitude of 35 degrees 05 minutes 30 seconds South and a longitude of 118 degrees 34 minutes 0 seconds E. He also shared details about the discovery of a hazardous group of rocks he called the Snares; the largest one was about a league in circumference and located at latitude 48 degrees 03 minutes S and longitude 166 degrees 20 minutes East, lying from the southern end of New Zealand at S 40 degrees W true, twenty leagues away, and from the southernmost point of the Traps (rocks discovered by Captain Cook) at S 67½ degrees W true, twenty leagues away. The biggest rock, which was the tallest and northeasternmost, could be seen in clear weather from about eight or nine leagues away. The entire group consisted of seven barren rocks, extending in a direction of about N 70 degrees E and S 70 degrees W true, taking up a space of about three leagues.

The Chatham, being separated in a gale of wind from the Discovery, fell in with an island, which was named 'Chatham Island,' and along the north-side of which she sailed for twelve leagues. Its inhabitants much resembled the natives of New Zealand, and it was situated in latitude 43 degrees 48 minutes S and longitude 183 degrees 02 minutes East.

The Chatham, having been separated from the Discovery during a storm, encountered an island that was named 'Chatham Island,' sailing along its northern coast for twelve leagues. The people living there closely resembled the natives of New Zealand, and it was located at latitude 43 degrees 48 minutes S and longitude 183 degrees 02 minutes E.

We learned from Lieutenant Hanson, that the Matilda whaler, which sailed hence in the latter end of the year 1791, on her fishing voyage, was wrecked on a reef in 22 degrees South latitude, and 138 degrees 30 minutes West longitude. The master and people reached Otaheite, from whence some were taken by an American vessel, and some by Captain Bligh of the Providence. Five sailors only remained on the island, with one runaway convict from this place, when the Daedalus touched there in her route hither, and of that number one sailor only could be prevailed on to quit it.

We heard from Lieutenant Hanson that the Matilda whaler, which set sail at the end of 1791 on its fishing trip, was wrecked on a reef at 22 degrees South latitude and 138 degrees 30 minutes West longitude. The captain and crew made it to Otaheite, where some were picked up by an American ship and others by Captain Bligh of the Providence. Only five sailors stayed on the island along with one escaped convict from this area when the Daedalus stopped there on its way here, and only one sailor was willing to leave with them.

We had now the satisfaction of learning that Captain Bligh had sailed for Jamaica in July last, with ten thousand breadfruit plants on board in fine order; having so far accomplished the object of this his second mission to that island.

We were now pleased to find out that Captain Bligh had set sail for Jamaica last July, with ten thousand breadfruit plants on board, all in great condition; successfully achieving the goal of his second mission to that island.

The natives from New Zealand having been put on board the Shah Hormuzear at the last moment of her stay in port, Lieutenant Hanson remaining with them until the ship was without the Heads, she sailed, together with the Chesterfield, on the 24th.

The natives from New Zealand were boarding the Shah Hormuzear at the last minute while it was still in port. Lieutenant Hanson stayed with them until the ship was outside the Heads, and then it sailed alongside the Chesterfield on the 24th.

Mr. Bampton purposed making his passage to India through the straits at the south end of New Guinea, known by the name of Torres Straits. Captain Hill, of the New South Wales corps, took his passage to England by the way of India with Mr. Bampton.

Mr. Bampton planned to travel to India through the straits at the southern end of New Guinea, called Torres Straits. Captain Hill, from the New South Wales corps, took his route to England via India with Mr. Bampton.

But few convicts were allowed to quit the colony in these ships; four men and one woman only, whose terms of transportation were expired, being received on board.

But only a few convicts were allowed to leave the colony on these ships; only four men and one woman, whose sentences had ended, were taken on board.

Gray, who had absconded from the hospital in February last, made his appearance about the latter end of this month at Toongabbie, where he was detected in stealing Indian corn.

Gray, who had escaped from the hospital last February, showed up towards the end of this month at Toongabbie, where he was caught stealing Indian corn.

Richard Sutton was stabbed with a knife in the belly by one Abraham Gordon, at the house of a female convict, on some quarrel respecting the woman, and at a time when both were inflamed with liquor. In the struggle Sutton was also dangerously cut in the arm; and when the surgeon came to dress him, he found six inches of the omentum protruding at the wound in his belly. Gordon was taken into custody.

Richard Sutton was stabbed in the stomach with a knife by a man named Abraham Gordon at the home of a female convict, during a dispute over the woman, while both were intoxicated. In the scuffle, Sutton also suffered a severe cut on his arm; and when the surgeon arrived to tend to him, he discovered six inches of the omentum hanging out of the wound in his stomach. Gordon was arrested.

Some people were taken up at Parramatta on suspicion of having murdered one of the watchmen belonging to that settlement; the circumstances of which affair one of them had been overheard relating to a fellow convict, while both were under confinement for some other offence. A watchman certainly had been missing for some time past; but after much inquiry and investigation nothing appeared that could furnish matter for a criminal prosecution against them.

Some people were arrested in Parramatta on suspicion of murdering one of the watchmen from that settlement. One of them was overheard talking about the incident to another convict while they were both locked up for a different offense. A watchman had indeed been missing for a while, but after a lot of questioning and investigation, there was nothing that could be used to bring criminal charges against them.

A soldier, who had been sentenced by a court-martial to receive three hundred lashes, on being led out to receive his punishment, attempted to cut his throat, wounding himself under the ear with a knife. The punishment was put off until the evening, when he declared that he was the person who killed the watchman at Parramatta, which he effected by shooting him; and that he would lead any one to the place where the body lay. This, however, not preventing his receiving as much of his punishment as he could bear, he afterwards declared that he knew nothing of the murder, and had accused himself of perpetrating so horrid a crime solely in the hope of deferring his punishment.

A soldier, sentenced by a court-martial to receive three hundred lashes, tried to slash his throat with a knife when he was taken out for his punishment, managing to wound himself under the ear. The punishment was postponed until the evening, when he claimed he was the one who killed the watchman at Parramatta by shooting him, offering to show anyone where the body was. However, this didn’t stop him from receiving as much of his punishment as he could endure. Later, he claimed he knew nothing about the murder and had confessed to committing such a dreadful crime only in the hope of delaying his punishment.

The natives, who now and then showed themselves about the distant settlements, toward the latter end of the month wounded a convict who was taking provisions from Parramatta to a settler at Prospect Hill. The wound was not dangerous; but it occasioned the loss of the provisions with which he was entrusted.

The locals, who occasionally appeared around the far-off settlements, at the end of the month injured a convict who was delivering supplies from Parramatta to a settler at Prospect Hill. The injury wasn't serious; however, it resulted in the loss of the supplies he was carrying.

The rains of this month came too late to save the Indian corn of the season, which now wore a most unpromising appearance. A grain had been lately introduced into the settlement, and grown at Toongabbie, and other places, which promised to answer very well for stock. It was the caffre corn of Africa, and had every appearance of proving a useful grain.

The rains this month arrived too late to save the Indian corn for the season, which now looked quite disappointing. A new grain had recently been brought into the settlement and grown in Toongabbie and other locations, which looked like it would work well for livestock. It was the caffre corn from Africa and seemed likely to be a useful grain.

An extraordinary appearance in the sky was observed by several people between five and six o'clock in the evening of Friday the 12th of this month. It was noticed in the north-west, and appeared as if a ray of forked lightning had been stationary in that quarter of the sky for about fifteen minutes, which was the time it was visible. It was not to be discerned, however, after the sun had quitted the horizon.

An unusual sighting in the sky was seen by several people between five and six o'clock in the evening on Friday, the 12th of this month. It was noticed in the northwest and looked like a bolt of forked lightning that had been lingering in that part of the sky for about fifteen minutes, which was how long it was visible. However, it couldn’t be seen after the sun went down.

May.] The days being considerably shortened, and the weather having lately been bad, it became necessary to alter the hours of labour. On the first of May, therefore, the lieutenant-governor directed that the convicts employed in cultivation, those employed under the master bricklayer, and those who worked at the brick carts and timber carriages, should labour from seven in the morning until ten, rest from that time until three in the afternoon, and continue at their work till sunset. The carpenters, whose business mostly lay within doors, and who were therefore not exposed to the weather, were directed to work one hour more in the afternoon, beginning at one instead of two o'clock.

May.] With the days getting noticeably shorter and the weather having been bad lately, it became necessary to change the working hours. Therefore, on the first of May, the lieutenant-governor ordered that the convicts working in agriculture, those working under the head bricklayer, and those handling the brick carts and timber carriages should work from seven in the morning until ten, take a break until three in the afternoon, and then continue working until sunset. The carpenters, whose work mainly took place indoors and who weren’t exposed to the weather, were instructed to work an extra hour in the afternoon, starting at one instead of two o'clock.

On the 4th the weekly ration was altered, the male convicts receiving (instead of seven) four pounds of flour, to which were added four pounds of wheat and four pounds of maize; the allowance of salt provisions continued the same; but, the oil being expended, six ounces of sugar were issued in lieu of that article. The wheat was that received from Bengal, and the maize was issued the first week shelled, but unground; on the second the people received it in the cob, getting six pounds in that state in lieu of four shelled. This was unquestionably a good ration, and when a sufficient number of mills were put up to grind the maize and the wheat, the people themselves allowed it to be so.

On the 4th, the weekly ration changed. Male convicts received four pounds of flour instead of seven, along with four pounds of wheat and four pounds of corn. The allowance of salt provisions stayed the same, but since the oil was used up, six ounces of sugar were given instead. The wheat was from Bengal, and the corn was provided for the first week shelled but not ground. In the second week, people got it on the cob, receiving six pounds in that form instead of four shelled. This was definitely a good ration, and once enough mills were set up to grind the corn and wheat, the people themselves acknowledged it as such.

With a ration that they admitted to be a good one, with about six hours labour during five days of the week, and with the advantages of gardens and good huts, the situation of the convicts might at this period be deemed comfortable, and such as precluded all excuse for misconduct. Garden robberies were, notwithstanding, often committed at Sydney; and at the other settlements the maize which was still in the field suffered considerable depredation.

With a food supply they agreed was good, about six hours of work for five days a week, and the perks of gardens and decent huts, the conditions for the convicts at this time could be considered comfortable, leaving little reason for misbehavior. However, garden thefts were still frequently happening in Sydney, and at the other settlements, the corn that was still in the fields faced significant damage.

A distinction was made in the ration served to the civil and military, they receiving weekly six instead of eight pounds of flour, two pounds of wheat, and four pounds of maize per man.

A distinction was made in the rations served to civilians and military personnel, with them receiving six instead of eight pounds of flour, two pounds of wheat, and four pounds of corn per person each week.

About the middle of the month the weather was remarkably bad. In the forenoon of the 15th a report was spread, in the midst of a most violent squall of wind and rain, that a ship was coming in. The wind having blown from the southward for some days before favoured the story, and, every one who heard it believing it to be true, the town was soon in motion notwithstanding the storm; for, although it was not so rare as it had been to hear of a ship, yet there was always something cheering and grateful, and perhaps ever will be, in entertaining the idea that our society was perhaps about to be increased, and that we were on the point of receiving intelligence from our connections, or information of what was doing in that world from which we felt themselves almost severed. On this occasion, however, we were disappointed; for, on the return of a boat which had been sent to the South Head, we were informed that the signal had not been made, nor a ship seen to occasion it. But we had been well trained in New South Wales to meet and endure disappointment!

About the middle of the month, the weather was really bad. On the morning of the 15th, in the middle of a fierce storm with wind and rain, a rumor spread that a ship was coming in. The wind had been blowing from the south for a few days, which made the story seem more believable, and everyone who heard it believed it to be true. The town quickly became active despite the storm; while it wasn’t as rare as it used to be to hear about a ship, there was always something uplifting and hopeful about the idea that our community might grow, and that we might receive news from our friends or updates on what was happening in the world that felt so distant from us. However, this time we were let down; when a boat returned from the South Head, we learned that no signal had been made and no ship had been seen to cause it. But we had been well prepared in New South Wales to handle and cope with disappointment!

On the night of this day, during the very heavy rain which fell, some person or persons found means to take off, undiscovered by the sentinel at the store on the east side, five hundred weight of sheet lead, which had been landed from the Daedalus, and rolled to the storehouse door, where, being an article not likely from its weight to become an easy object of depredation, it was supposed to be perfectly safe. A very diligent search was made, but without success; and it remained undiscovered until the 27th, when a seaman belonging to the Kitty transport, on the ebbing of a spring tide, perceived it lying on the shore at low-water mark, opposite to the spot where the Daedalus lay at anchor. From this circumstance suspicion fell upon the people belonging to that ship; but as any design they could have in stealing it was not very obvious, it was more probable that some of the convicts had dropped it there for the purpose of secreting it till a future day, when it would have been got up, and cast into shot for those who are allowed to kill game.

On the night of that day, during the heavy rain, someone managed to steal five hundred weight of sheet lead from the store on the east side without being seen by the guard. The lead had just arrived from the Daedalus and was rolled up to the storehouse door. Since it was heavy, it was considered secure. A thorough search was conducted, but nothing was found. The lead remained missing until the 27th, when a sailor from the Kitty transport spotted it on the shore at low tide, right where the Daedalus was anchored. Because of this, suspicion fell on the crew of that ship; however, their reason for stealing it wasn't clear. It seemed more likely that some of the convicts had left it there to hide it until they could retrieve it later to make shot for hunting.

About the end of the month the detachment of the New South Wales corps on duty at Parramatta was relieved. The party that remained there was placed under the command of Lieutenant Macarthur, the officer charged with the direction of the civil duties of that settlement. The relief took place by land, the party from Sydney marching up in about seven hours, and that from Parramatta arriving at their quarters in Sydney in something more than six. The computed distance by land is between seventeen and eighteen miles.

About the end of the month, the detachment of the New South Wales Corps on duty at Parramatta was replaced. The party that stayed was led by Lieutenant Macarthur, the officer responsible for the civil duties of that settlement. The changeover happened over land, with the party from Sydney marching up in about seven hours, and the group from Parramatta arriving at their quarters in Sydney in a little more than six. The estimated distance by land is between seventeen and eighteen miles.

On the 29th our colours were displayed at the fort, in grateful remembrance of the restoration of monarchy in England.

On the 29th, our flags were flown at the fort, in thankful remembrance of the restoration of the monarchy in England.

Information was the same day received from Parramatta, that on the evening of Saturday the 24th a settler of the name of Lisk, having been drinking at the house of Charles Williams with Rose Burk (a woman with whom he cohabited) until they were very much intoxicated, as he was returning to his farm through the town of Parramatta, a dispute arose between him and the woman, during which a gun that he had went off, and the contents lodged in the woman's arm below the elbow, shattering the bones in so dreadful a manner as to require immediate amputation; which Mr. Arndell, being fortunately at home, directly performed. The unhappy woman acquitted her companion of any intention to do her so shocking an injury, and when the account reached Sydney she was in a favourable way.

Information was received the same day from Parramatta that on the evening of Saturday the 24th, a settler named Lisk had been drinking at Charles Williams's place with Rose Burk (a woman he lived with) until they were quite drunk. As he was heading back to his farm through Parramatta, an argument broke out between them. During this altercation, a gun he had accidentally discharged, and the shot hit the woman's arm below the elbow, shattering the bones so badly that it required immediate amputation. Luckily, Mr. Arndell was home and performed the surgery right away. The unfortunate woman stated that she did not believe her companion intended to cause her such a horrific injury, and when the news reached Sydney, she was recovering well.

In this accident Williams, it is true, had no further share than what he might claim from their having intoxicated themselves at his house; but that, however, established him more firmly in the opinion of those who could judge of his conduct as a public nuisance.

In this incident, Williams, it's true, had no involvement beyond the fact that they got drunk at his place; however, that only solidified the views of those who could evaluate his behavior as a public nuisance.

The principal labour in hand at Sydney at this time was what the building of the barracks occasioned; and at the other settlements the people were chiefly employed in getting into the ground the grain for the ensuing season, and in preparing for sowing the maize. This article of subsistence having in the late season proved very unprofitable, the average quantity being not more than six bushels per acre in the whole, the lieutenant-governor determined to sow with wheat as much of the public grounds as he could; and every settler who chose to apply was permitted to draw as much wheat from the public granary as his ground required, proper care being taken to insure its being applied solely to that use. At Toongabbie no addition had been made to the public ground since Governor Phillip's departure; but by a survey made at the latter end of this month it appeared, that the officers to whom lands had been granted, had cultivated and cleared two hundred and thirty-three acres, and had cut down the timber from two hundred and nineteen more. All the settlers of a different description had added something to their grounds; and there were many who might be pronounced to be advancing fast toward the comfortable situation of independent farmers.

The main work happening in Sydney at this time was due to the construction of the barracks. In the other settlements, people were primarily busy planting grain for the upcoming season and preparing to sow maize. Since maize hadn't been very profitable last season, averaging only six bushels per acre overall, the lieutenant-governor decided to sow as much wheat as possible on public lands. Any settler who wanted to could take as much wheat from the public granary as they needed for their land, with proper precautions to ensure it was used only for that purpose. At Toongabbie, there hadn't been any expansion of public land since Governor Phillip left. However, a survey conducted at the end of this month showed that the officers who had been granted land had cultivated and cleared two hundred and thirty-three acres and had cut down timber from two hundred and nineteen more. Other settlers had also made some improvements to their land, with many on track to become successful independent farmers.

The quantity of land granted since the governor's departure amounted to one thousand five hundred and seventy-five acres, eight hundred and thirty of which lay between the towns of Sydney and of Parramatta, the lieutenant-governor wishing and purposing to form a chain of farms between these settlements. The advantages to be derived from this communication were, the opening of an extent of country in the neighbourhood of both townships, and the benefit that would ultimately accrue to the colony at large from the cultivation of a track of as good land as any that had been hitherto opened; by some indeed it was deemed superior to the land immediately about Parramatta or Toongabbie. In this chain, on the Parramatta side, were placed those settlers who came out in the Bellona; and although they had only taken possession of their farms about the middle of February, they had got some ground ready for wheat, and by their industry had approved themselves deserving of every encouragement.

The amount of land granted since the governor left totaled one thousand five hundred seventy-five acres, with eight hundred thirty acres located between the towns of Sydney and Parramatta. The lieutenant-governor aimed to create a chain of farms between these settlements. The benefits of this connection included opening up a stretch of land near both towns and the overall advantage to the colony from cultivating an area of land that was as good as any previously opened; some even considered it better than the land around Parramatta or Toongabbie. In this chain, on the Parramatta side, were the settlers who arrived on the Bellona; although they only took possession of their farms around mid-February, they managed to prepare some ground for wheat and, through their hard work, proved themselves worthy of every support.

June.] The Kitty transport, which, since her arrival from Norfolk Island on the 21st of April last, had been fitting for her return to England, at length hauled out of the cove on the 1st of this month, it being intended that she should sail on the following morning. Her departure, however, was delayed by the appearance of a mutiny among the sailors at the very moment of being ordered to get the anchor up and proceed to sea. The master, George Ramsay, had frequently complained of some of the sailors belonging to the ship for various offences, and several of them had been punished on shore; one in particular, Benjamin Williams, for resisting Mr. Ramsay's authority as master of this ship, had been punished with one hundred lashes. This man, and four or five of the other sailors, having procured half a gallon of liquor from a man who (his term of transportation having expired) was permitted to return to England, were found by the master drinking, and with a light burning in the forecastle, at the late and improper hour of twelve o'clock on the night preceding their intended sailing. On being ordered to put out the light, they refused, Williams declaring with an oath, that if the master extinguished it, he would light it again. This, however, the master effected; but on his afterwards going forward for the purpose of discovering if they had procured another light, he was seized by Williams and the other sailors, and thrown clear of the ship into the water. Fortunately he could swim, a circumstance unknown to these miscreants, and he reached the ship's side, whence, the mate coming to his assistance, he was, though with some difficulty, being a very heavy man, got into the ship. The master, notwithstanding the outrage which he had thus experienced at their hands, would have contented himself with making a deposition of the circumstance, and have put to sea the next morning; but when he ordered the topsails to be hoisted, and the ship got under way, Williams stood forward, and, for himself and the rest, declared with much insolence, that the anchor should not be moved until the proper number of hands belonging to the ship were on board*. The anchor, however, was got up by the assistance of the passengers and some people who had boats from the settlement alongside, and with the wind at west she dropped gradually down the harbour. The lieutenant-governor, on being informed by some officers who were present of the dangerous and alarming temper which the seamen manifested on board, resolved, by taking a firm and very active part, to crush the disorder at once, He accordingly went on board in person, with some soldiers, and, ordering the ship to be brought to an anchor, returned with Williams, and two others who were pointed out by the master as his confederates, not only in refusing the duty of the ship, but in throwing him overboard during the preceding night. This resolute step was instantly followed up by their being taken to the public parade, and there punished, Williams with one hundred and fifty, and his companions with one hundred lashes each, by the drummers of the New South Wales corps. At the place and in the moment of punishment Williams's courage forsook him, and the spirit which he had displayed on board the Kitty was all evaporated**. He would have said or done any thing to have averted the lash.

June.] The Kitty transport, which had been preparing for her return to England since arriving from Norfolk Island on April 21, finally left the cove on the 1st of this month, planning to sail the next morning. However, her departure was postponed due to a mutiny among the sailors just as they were getting ready to raise the anchor and head out to sea. The captain, George Ramsay, had often complained about several of the ship's crew for various offenses, and some had been punished onshore; one in particular, Benjamin Williams, was given one hundred lashes for defying Mr. Ramsay's authority. This man, along with four or five others, managed to get half a gallon of liquor from a person who had completed his transportation sentence and was allowed to return to England. They were caught by the captain drinking with a light on in the forecastle at the inappropriate hour of midnight before they were supposed to sail. When ordered to extinguish the light, they refused, with Williams swearing that if the captain put it out, he would light it again. The captain managed to put out the light, but when he went forward to check if they had another one, Williams and the other sailors seized him and threw him overboard. Luckily, he could swim, which the troublemakers didn’t know, and he reached the side of the ship. The mate came to help him, and despite some difficulty because he was quite heavy, he was pulled back on board. Despite the assault he had just endured, the captain planned to simply report the incident and sail the next morning; however, when he ordered the topsails to be raised and the ship to get underway, Williams boldly declared that the anchor wouldn't be lifted until the right number of crew members were back on board. Nonetheless, the anchor was raised with help from the passengers and some people from the settlement with boats, and with the wind from the west, she gradually moved down the harbor. The lieutenant-governor, having been informed by some officers present about the sailors' dangerous and alarming attitude, decided to take decisive action to put an end to the disorder. He went on board with some soldiers and ordered the ship to anchor, and brought back Williams and two others whom the captain had identified as his accomplices for refusing to perform their duties and for throwing him overboard the night before. This bold move was quickly followed by their punishment on the public parade, with Williams receiving one hundred and fifty lashes and his companions receiving one hundred lashes each from the drummers of the New South Wales corps. At the moment of his punishment, Williams's bravery faltered, and the defiance he had shown on the Kitty disappeared completely. He would have said or done anything to avoid the lash.

[* She was deficient three men and two boys. The latter had run away the night before.]

[* She was short three men and two boys. The boys had escaped the night before.]

[** He pretty well knew what a flogging was; for he was recognised by a soldier of the New South Wales corps, who had seen him flogged from ship to ship at Spithead for a similar offence.]

[** He pretty much understood what a flogging was; he was recognized by a soldier from the New South Wales corps, who had seen him being flogged from ship to ship at Spithead for a similar offense.]

The appearance of a mutiny is at all times and in every situation to be dreaded; but in this country nothing could be more alarming. The lieutenant-governor saw the affair in that light; and with a celerity and firmness adapted to the exigency of the case restored tranquillity and safety to all those who were concerned in the fate of the Kitty. The day following several depositions were taken by the judge-advocate, for the purpose of being transmitted to the navy-board, and the three seamen who had been taken out of the Kitty being replaced by two convicts and one seaman lately discharged from the Daedalus, she sailed at daylight on the morning of the 4th instant, and by twelve o'clock at noon was not to be seen from the South Head.

The threat of a mutiny is always something to be feared, but in this country, it’s particularly alarming. The lieutenant-governor understood the situation this way and acted quickly and decisively to restore calm and safety for everyone involved with the Kitty. The next day, several statements were taken by the judge-advocate to be sent to the navy board. The three sailors who had been removed from the Kitty were replaced by two convicts and one recently discharged sailor from the Daedalus, and she set sail at dawn on the 4th, disappearing from view by noon at South Head.

On board the Kitty were embarked Mr. Dennis Considen, one of the assistant-surgeons of the settlement, who had received permission to return to England on account of his health, which had been formerly impaired in the East Indies, Lieutenant Stephen Donovan, who had been employed in superintending the landing of provisions and stores at Norfolk Island, and was now returning to England, having been appointed a lieutenant in the navy; Mr. Richard Clarke, who came out in the Bellona as a medical superintendant; Mr. Alexander Purvis Cranston, late surgeon of his Majesty's sloop Discovery, who was returning to England, being from ill health no longer capable of attending to the duties of his profession; Mr. Henry Phillips, late carpenter of the same vessel, who was sent hither to be forwarded to England as a prisoner; two seamen and one marine, invalids from the vessels under the command of Captain Vancouver; five men and one woman*, who, their terms of transportation being expired, were permitted to return to their friends; the seaman who was left behind from the Atrevida; also five men, who were permitted to enter on board the Kitty for the purpose of navigating her. For the officers and invalids who were on board, provisions for six months were sent from the colony; but the others provided for themselves.

On board the Kitty were Mr. Dennis Considen, one of the assistant-surgeons from the settlement, who had been allowed to return to England due to health issues that had begun in the East Indies; Lieutenant Stephen Donovan, who had been overseeing the landing of supplies at Norfolk Island and was now heading back to England after being appointed a lieutenant in the navy; Mr. Richard Clarke, who traveled on the Bellona as a medical superintendent; Mr. Alexander Purvis Cranston, former surgeon of His Majesty's sloop Discovery, who was returning to England because his health prevented him from fulfilling his professional duties; Mr. Henry Phillips, former carpenter of the same vessel, who was sent here to be forwarded to England as a prisoner; two seamen and one marine, invalids from the vessels under Captain Vancouver's command; five men and one woman*, who were allowed to return to their friends after completing their terms of transportation; the seaman who was left behind from the Atrevida; and five men who were permitted to board the Kitty to help navigate her. For the officers and invalids on board, provisions for six months were sent from the colony, but the others provided for themselves.

[* Dorothy Handland, who at the time of her departure was upwards of eighty years of age, but who nevertheless had not a doubt of weathering Cape Horn.]

[* Dorothy Handland, who was over eighty years old at the time of her departure, still had no doubt about making it past Cape Horn.]

The services of the Kitty were to be summed up in very few words. Of ten artificers with which she sailed from England, she lost eight; and of the cargo of stores and provisions which she brought out, a part was damaged. In seventeen months that she had been in the service of government, she had made a long and circuitous voyage from England, and had taken one freight of provisions, stores, and troops to Norfolk Island from this place. For these services her owners were to receive the sum of £3500; and, allowing her to be seven months on her passage to England, the total amount of her hire will be found to be very little short of £5000.

The services of the Kitty can be summed up in just a few words. Out of the ten crew members she set sail with from England, eight were lost; and some of the cargo of supplies and provisions she brought was damaged. In the seventeen months she had been serving the government, she made a long and roundabout journey from England and delivered one load of supplies, provisions, and troops to Norfolk Island from this location. For these services, her owners were to receive £3500; and, considering she took seven months to return to England, the total amount of her hire will be nearly £5000.

His Majesty's birthday passed with the usual marks of distinction. The regiment fired three vollies on their own parade, and the convicts were allowed the day to themselves. On this occasion also the lieutenant-governor caused twelve of the largest hogs which had been received by the Daedalus, to be killed and divided among the military, superintendants, and sick at the hospital; sufficient being given to the latter for two days.

His Majesty's birthday went by with the usual honors. The regiment fired three volleys during their parade, and the convicts had the day off. On this occasion, the lieutenant-governor ordered twelve of the biggest pigs brought in by the Daedalus to be slaughtered and shared among the military, supervisors, and the sick at the hospital; enough was provided for the latter for two days.

Notwithstanding the purchases of provisions which had fortunately been made from the Philadelphia brigantine before governor Phillip's departure, and since that time from the Hope and from the Shah Hormuzear, the lieutenant-governor found it necessary on the 12th of the month to give notice, 'That unless supplies arrived before the 22nd he should be under the disagreeable necessity of ordering the ration to be reduced on that day.'

Not considering the supplies that had thankfully been bought from the Philadelphia brigantine before Governor Phillip left, and since then from the Hope and from the Shah Hormuzear, the lieutenant-governor found it necessary on the 12th of the month to announce, 'That unless supplies arrived before the 22nd he would regrettably have to order a reduction in rations on that day.'

A view of the provisions remaining in store here and at Parramatta on the 24th of last month (the date of the return sent home by the commissary in the Kitty) will evince the necessity of such an alteration.

A look at the supplies still available here and at Parramatta on the 24th of last month (the date of the report sent back by the commissary in the Kitty) will show the need for such a change.

On the 24th of May there were in store

On May 24th, there were in stock

Of Flour 137,944 lbs
Of Wheat 154,560 lbs
Of Paddy  49,248 lbs

Of Flour 137,944 lbs  
Of Wheat 154,560 lbs  
Of Paddy 49,248 lbs

making a total of three hundred and forty-one thousand seven hundred and fifty-two pounds of grain; which, at the established ration of eight pounds per man per week, would last six weeks and three days.

making a total of three hundred and forty-one thousand seven hundred and fifty-two pounds of grain; which, at the established ration of eight pounds per person per week, would last six weeks and three days.

Beef  93,969 lbs
Pork 125,178 lbs

Beef: 93,969 lbs  
Pork: 125,178 lbs

which, at the ration of seven pounds of beef, or four pounds of pork, per man per week, would last, the beef five weeks, and the pork eleven weeks and a half.

which, at the rate of seven pounds of beef or four pounds of pork per person per week, would last five weeks for the beef and eleven and a half weeks for the pork.

There was also in store, though not at present issued, the Indian corn rendering it unnecessary, seventy-one thousand two hundred and eighty pounds of grain and peas; which, at the allowance of three pints per man per week, would last eight weeks and a half; and nineteen thousand eight hundred pounds of sugar; which, at six ounces per man per week, would last eighteen weeks and a half. This latter article had been issued since the beginning of the last month, when it was served as an equivalent for oil.

There was also some Indian corn that wasn’t available yet, making it unnecessary, along with seventy-one thousand two hundred and eighty pounds of grain and peas; at three pints per person each week, that would last for eight and a half weeks; and nineteen thousand eight hundred pounds of sugar; at six ounces per person each week, that would last for eighteen and a half weeks. This sugar had been given out since the start of last month, when it was provided as a substitute for oil.

It must be remarked, that but for the purchases which had most fortunately been made of provisions, the colony must at this moment have been again groaning under the oppression of a very reduced ration.

It should be noted that if it weren't for the fortunate purchases of supplies, the colony would be struggling once again under the burden of very limited rations.

From the Philadelphia   were purchased Beef 109,817 lbs.
From the Hope           were purchased Beef  38,600 lbs.
From the Shah Hormuzear were purchased Beef 107,988 lbs.
                                           -------
Total of Beef                               256,405 lbs.

From the Hope were purchased Pork            15,600 lbs.
                                            -------
Whole quantity purchased                    272,005 lbs.

of which, deducting the quantity remaining, we shall be found to have
then consumed fifty-two thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight pounds,
something more than equal to one-fifth part.

From the Hope           were purchased Flour  8,800 lbs.
From the Shah Hormuzear were purchased Flour 36,539 lbs.
                                            -------
Whole quantity purchased                     45,339 lbs.

which deducted from the quantity remaining,
we should then only have had in store        92,605 lbs.
of the other articles of which the present ration was composed (the maize
excepted) we should not have had any in the colony; for the wheat and the
sugar were brought hither in the ship from Bengal.

From Philadelphia, we bought 109,817 lbs of beef.  
From the Hope, we bought 38,600 lbs of beef.  
From the Shah Hormuzear, we bought 107,988 lbs of beef.  
                                           -------  
Total beef purchased:                              256,405 lbs.  

From the Hope, we bought 15,600 lbs of pork.  
                                            -------  
Total quantity purchased:                     272,005 lbs.  

After deducting the remaining amount, we found that we had consumed 52,858 lbs, which is slightly more than one-fifth.  

From the Hope, we bought 8,800 lbs of flour.  
From the Shah Hormuzear, we bought 36,539 lbs of flour.  
                                            -------  
Total flour purchased:                     45,339 lbs.  

After deducting from the remaining quantity, we would only have had 92,605 lbs of the other items in the current ration (excluding maize); we wouldn’t have had any in the colony because the wheat and sugar were brought here by the ship from Bengal.

As none of these incidental supplies could be known in England, it was fair to conclude, that our situation must have been adverted to, and that ships with provisions were now not very distant. Under this idea, although on the 22nd no supplies had arrived, the lieutenant-governor did not make any alteration in the ration, determining to wait one week longer before he directed the necessary reduction. It was always a painful duty to abridge the food of the labouring man, and had been too often exercised here. The putting off, therefore, the evil day for another week in the hope of any decrease being rendered unnecessary by the arrival of supplies, met with general applause.

As none of these extra supplies were known in England, it seemed reasonable to think that someone must have noticed our situation and that ships with food weren’t too far away. With this mindset, even though no supplies had arrived by the 22nd, the lieutenant-governor decided not to change the rations, choosing to wait another week before making any necessary cuts. It was always a tough job to reduce the food for the working man, and this had happened too often here. So, delaying the difficult decision for another week in hopes that the arrival of supplies would make cuts unnecessary was generally well-received.

On the Monday following the signal was made for a sail, and about nine o'clock at night the Britannia was safe within the Heads, having to a day completed eight months since she sailed hence. The length of time she had been absent gave birth to some anxiety upon her account, and her arrival was welcomed with proportionate satisfaction.

On the Monday after the signal was made to set sail, at around nine o'clock at night the Britannia was safely inside the Heads, marking exactly eight months since she had left. Her long absence caused some worry about her safety, and her return was met with great relief and happiness.

Mr. Raven touched at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, where he left his second mate Mr. John Leith and some of his people, for the purpose of procuring seals (the principal object of his voyage from England); and of the timber which he found there he made a very favourable report, pronouncing it to be light, tough, and in every respect fit for masts or yards. From New Zealand the Britannia, after rounding Cape Horn in very favourable weather, proceeded to the island of Santa Catherina, on the Brasil coast, where the Portuguese have a settlement, and from whose governor Mr. Raven received much civility during the eighteen days that he remained there. Not being able to procure at this place any of the articles he was instructed to purchase (one cow and one cow-calf excepted) he stood over to the African continent, and arrived at the Cape of Good Hope on the 24th of March last. At this port he took on board thirty cows; three mares; twelve goats; a quantity of flour, sugar, tobacco, and spirits; and other articles, according to the orders of his employers. Mr. Raven afforded another instance of the great difficulty attending the transporting of cattle to this country; for, notwithstanding the extreme care and attention which were paid to them, twenty-nine of the cows and three goats unfortunately died. This he attributed solely, and no doubt justly, to their not being properly prepared for such a voyage, and previously fed for some weeks on dry food.

Mr. Raven stopped at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, where he left his second mate, Mr. John Leith, and some crew members to gather seals (which was the main goal of his voyage from England). He made a very positive report on the timber he found there, stating it was light, durable, and perfect for masts or yards. After leaving New Zealand, the Britannia rounded Cape Horn in great weather and headed to Santa Catherina, an island on the Brazilian coast with a Portuguese settlement. The governor there was very courteous to Mr. Raven during his eighteen-day stay. However, since he couldn't find most of the items he was supposed to buy (except for one cow and one calf), he continued to the African continent and reached the Cape of Good Hope on March 24th. At this port, he loaded up thirty cows, three mares, twelve goats, a supply of flour, sugar, tobacco, spirits, and other items as instructed by his employers. Mr. Raven demonstrated once again the significant challenges of transporting cattle to this country; despite the careful attention they received, twenty-nine of the cows and three goats sadly died. He attributed this solely, and quite rightly, to their inadequate preparation for the voyage, as they had been fed on dry food for weeks before.

In her passage from the Cape of Good Hope to this port, the Britannia met with much bad weather, running for fourteen days under her bare poles. The prevailing winds were from SW to NW. She came round Van Dieman's Land in a gale of wind without seeing it. To the southward of New Zealand Mr. Raven fell in with the rocks seen by Captain Vancouver, and named by him the Snares. In the latitude of them Mr. Raven differed from Captain Vancouver only four miles; their longitude he made exactly the same. Such similarity in the observations was rare and remarkable. He passed some islands of ice at three and five leagues distance, in latitudes 51 degrees and 52 degrees S and longitudes 232 degrees and 240 degrees East.

During her journey from the Cape of Good Hope to this port, the Britannia faced a lot of bad weather, spending fourteen days sailing with no sails up. The main winds were coming from the southwest to northwest. She rounded Van Dieman's Land in a strong wind without spotting it. South of New Zealand, Mr. Raven encountered the rocks that Captain Vancouver had seen and named the Snares. Mr. Raven's measurements differed from Captain Vancouver's by only four miles in latitude; they were exactly the same in longitude. Such a close match in observations was rare and notable. He passed some ice islands at distances of three and five leagues, at latitudes 51 degrees and 52 degrees South and longitudes 232 degrees and 240 degrees East.

At the Cape Mr. Raven found the Pitt, Captain Manning, from Calcutta, to whom he delivered his dispatches; and he received information from the captains of the Triton and Warley East Indiamen of the agitated state of Europe; of the naval and military preparations which were making in our own country; and of the spirit of loyalty and affection for our justly-revered sovereign which breathed throughout the nation, accompanied with firm and general determinations to maintain inviolate our happy constitution. These accounts, while they served to excite an ardent wish for the speedy arrival of a ship from England, seemed to throw the probability of one at a greater distance, particularly as Mr. Raven could not learn with any certainty of a ship being preparing for New South Wales.

At the Cape, Mr. Raven met the Pitt, Captained by Manning, coming from Calcutta, to whom he handed over his dispatches. He also got updates from the captains of the Triton and Warley East Indiamen about the turbulent situation in Europe, the naval and military preparations taking place in our own country, and the strong sense of loyalty and affection for our well-respected sovereign that was felt throughout the nation, alongside a solid and widespread commitment to uphold our cherished constitution. These reports made him eager for the quick arrival of a ship from England, but they also suggested that it might be a while before one showed up, especially since Mr. Raven couldn't find out for sure if a ship was being prepared for New South Wales.

Among other circumstances which he mentioned was one which deserved notice. The Royal Admiral East Indiaman, Captain Bond, was lying on the 19th of last December in the Tigris. She sailed hence on the 13th of November, and, admitting that she had only arrived on the day on which she was stated to a certainty to be at anchor in the river, she must have performed the voyage in thirty-seven days from this port. This ship, it may be remembered, made the passage from the Cape of Good Hope to this place in five weeks and three days; a run that had never before been made by any other ship coming to this country.

Among other things he mentioned, there was one that stood out. The Royal Admiral East Indiaman, captained by Bond, was anchored in the Tigris on December 19th of last year. She left here on November 13th, and if we assume she arrived on the day she was reported to be anchored in the river, she managed to complete the journey in thirty-seven days from this port. This ship, as you might recall, made the trip from the Cape of Good Hope to here in five weeks and three days; a record that had never been achieved by any other ship coming to this country.

From the length of time which the Britannia had been absent, our observation was forcibly drawn to the distance whereat we were placed from any quarter which could furnish us with supplies; and a calculation of the length of time which had been taken by other ships to procure them confirmed the necessity that existed of using every exertion that might place the colony in a state of independence.

Given how long the Britannia had been gone, we were acutely aware of how far we were from any place that could provide us with supplies. A comparison of how long it took other ships to gather supplies reinforced the need to make every effort to ensure the colony could become self-sufficient.

When the Sirius went to the Cape of Good Hope in 1788, she was absent seven months and six days.

When the Sirius went to the Cape of Good Hope in 1788, she was gone for seven months and six days.

The Supply, which was sent for provisions in 1789, returned herself in six months and two days; but the supplies which had been purchased for the colony were two months longer in reaching it.

The Supply, sent for provisions in 1789, came back in six months and two days; however, the supplies that were bought for the colony took an additional two months to arrive.

The Atlantic sailed hence for Calcutta on the 26th of October 1791, touching at Norfolk Island, from which place she took her departure on the 13th of November; and, calculating her passage from that time, she will be found to have been seven months and one week in procuring the supplies for which she was sent out.

The Atlantic set sail for Calcutta on October 26, 1791, stopping at Norfolk Island, from which it left on November 13. Based on the passage calculations from that date, it took her seven months and one week to gather the supplies she was sent for.

The Britannia too was eight months absent. From all this it was to be inferred, that there should not only be always provisions in the stores for twelve months beforehand; but that, to guard against accidents, whenever the provisions in the colony were reduced to that quantity and no more, then would be the time to dispatch a ship for supplies.

The Britannia was also gone for eight months. From this, it could be concluded that there should always be enough supplies in the store for twelve months ahead; and to avoid any issues, whenever the supplies in the colony dropped to that level and no more, that would be the time to send a ship for more supplies.

The difficulty of introducing cattle into the colony had been rendered evident by the miscarriage of the different attempts made by this and other ships. In this particular we had indeed been singularly unfortunate; for we had not only lost the greatest part of what had been purchased and embarked for the colony, as will appear by the following statement; but we had at the beginning, as will be remembered, lost the few that did survive the passage. Of these it never was known with any certainty what had been the fate. Some of the natives who resided among us did, in observing some that had been landed, declare that they had seen them destroyed by their own people; and even offered to lead any one to the place where some of their bones might be found; but, from the distance of the supposed spot, and our more important concerns, this had never been sought after. It was very probable that they had been so destroyed; if not, and that they had met with no other accident, their increase at this time must have been very considerable.

The challenge of bringing cattle into the colony had become clear due to the failed attempts from this and other ships. We had been particularly unlucky; we lost most of what we had bought and shipped for the colony, as shown in the following statement. Moreover, at the start, we had lost the few that made it through the journey. It was never certain what happened to them. Some of the locals who lived among us claimed that they saw them killed by their own people and even offered to take someone to where some of their bones might be found. However, we never pursued this, given the distance to the supposed location and our more pressing issues. It was very likely they had been killed; if not, and if they hadn’t encountered any other problems, their population would have been quite large by now.

Account of Black Cattle purchased for, lost in the passage to, and landed in New South Wales.

Account of Black Cattle bought for, lost during the trip to, and arrived in New South Wales.

                                              Purchased  Lost in  Landed
                                                         Passage
            (B=Bull Cw=Cow Cf=Calf)           B  Cw Cf B  Cw Cf B  Cw Cf
Embarked in 1787 on board the Sirius and
one of the transports                         1  7  1  -  2  -  1  5  1
Embarked in 1789 on board the Guardian        2 16  -  2 16  -  -  -  -
Embarked in 1791 on board the Gorgon,
   Admiral Barrington, and calved
   on the passage                             3 24  1  3  7  -  - 17  1 Bull
Embarked on board the Atlantic
   in 1792, at Calcutta                       2  2  1  -  1  1  2  1  -
Embarked on board the Pitt                    -  2  -  -  1  -  -  1  -
Embarked on board the Royal Admiral           -  1  -  -  -  -  -  -  0
Embarked on board the Shah Hormuzear
   in 1792, in India                          1 24  2  1 23  -  -  1  2
Embarked on board the Daedalus                6 12  -  6 12  -  -  -  -
Embarked on board the Britannia               - 31  1  - 29  -  -  2  1

Total Purchased           15 bulls, 119 cows, 6 calves;
Total Lost in the passage 12 bulls,  91 cows, 1 calf;
Total Landed               3 bulls,  28 cows, 5 calves.

                                              Purchased  Lost in  Landed
                                                         Passage
            (B=Bull Cw=Cow Cf=Calf)           B  Cw Cf B  Cw Cf B  Cw Cf
Embarked in 1787 on board the Sirius and
one of the transports                          1  7  1  -  2  -  1  5  1
Embarked in 1789 on board the Guardian        2 16  -  2 16  -  -  -  -
Embarked in 1791 on board the Gorgon,
   Admiral Barrington, and calved
   during the journey                          3 24  1  3  7  -  - 17  1 Bull
Embarked on board the Atlantic
   in 1792, at Calcutta                       2  2  1  -  1  1  2  1  -
Embarked on board the Pitt                    -  2  -  -  1  -  -  1  -
Embarked on board the Royal Admiral           -  1  -  -  -  -  -  -  0
Embarked on board the Shah Hormuzear
   in 1792, in India                          1 24  2  1 23  -  -  1  2
Embarked on board the Daedalus                6 12  -  6 12  -  -  -  -
Embarked on board the Britannia               - 31  1  - 29  -  -  2  1

Total Purchased           15 bulls, 119 cows, 6 calves;
Total Lost in the passage 12 bulls,  91 cows, 1 calf;
Total Landed               3 bulls,  28 cows, 5 calves.

Of the three bulls which were landed two only were living at this period, beside the bull calf produced on board the Gorgon. Of the twenty-eight cows only twenty, and of the five calves only two were living; but the cows which arrived in the Gorgon had produced three cow and two bull calves; and one small cow must be added to the number in the colony, which had been presented by the Spanish commodore to the lieutenant-governor.

Of the three bulls that were brought ashore, only two were alive at this time, along with the bull calf born on the Gorgon. Of the twenty-eight cows, only twenty survived, and out of the five calves, only two were alive; however, the cows that arrived on the Gorgon had given birth to three female and two male calves. Additionally, one small female cow must be included in the total for the colony, which had been gifted by the Spanish commodore to the lieutenant-governor.

Sheep, horses, and hogs were found, better than any other stock, to stand the rough weather which was in general met with between the Cape of Good Hope and this country.

Sheep, horses, and pigs were found to handle the harsh weather better than any other livestock typically encountered between the Cape of Good Hope and this country.

The mortality which had happened among the stock on board the Britannia set a high price on those which survived. For the cows Mr. Raven bought at the Cape he gave twenty dollars each, and for each horse he gave thirty dollars. For the cow with her calf, which he purchased at Santa Catharina, he gave no more than sixteen Spanish dollars.

The death rate among the livestock on board the Britannia made the ones that survived much more valuable. Mr. Raven paid twenty dollars for each cow he bought at the Cape and thirty dollars for each horse. For the cow with her calf that he purchased at Santa Catharina, he paid only sixteen Spanish dollars.

On Saturday the 29th, the lieutenant-governor determining to try the present ration yet another week, the usual allowance was issued, and on the next day the following general order appeared: 'It being unsafe to continue at the present ration, the commissary has received instructions to reduce the weekly allowance, either one pound of pork, or two pounds of beef, making a proportionate deduction from the women and children. This alteration to take place on Saturday the 6th of July.'

On Saturday the 29th, the lieutenant governor decided to keep the current ration for another week, so the usual amount was distributed, and the next day the following general order was issued: 'Since it’s unsafe to maintain the current ration, the commissary has been instructed to reduce the weekly allowance to either one pound of pork or two pounds of beef, with a proportional deduction for women and children. This change will take effect on Saturday, July 6th.'

The natives had lately become troublesome, particularly in lurking between the different settlements, and forcibly taking provisions and clothing from the convicts who were passing from one to another. One or two convicts having been wounded by them, some small armed parties were sent out to drive them away, and to throw a few shot among them, but with positive orders to be careful not to take a life.

The locals had recently become a problem, especially by hiding between the different settlements and forcefully taking food and clothing from the convicts moving between them. After one or two convicts were injured by them, some small armed groups were sent out to scare them off and fire a few shots, but they were given strict orders to avoid taking any lives.

Several of these people, however, continued to reside in the town, and to mix with the inhabitants in the most unreserved manner. It was no uncommon circumstance to see them coming into town with bundles of fire-wood which they had been hired to procure, or bringing water from the tanks; for which services they thought themselves well rewarded with any worn-out jacket or trousers, or blankets, or a piece of bread. Of this latter article they were all exceedingly fond, and their constant prayer was for bread, importuning with as much earnestness and perseverance as if begging for bread had been their profession from their infancy; and their attachment to us must be considered as an indication of their not receiving any ill treatment from us.

Several of these people, however, continued to live in the town and interacted with the locals quite freely. It was common to see them coming into town carrying bundles of firewood that they had been hired to collect, or fetching water from the tanks; for these tasks, they felt well compensated with any old jacket or pair of pants, blankets, or a piece of bread. They all had a deep fondness for bread, and their constant request was for it, begging with as much sincerity and determination as if begging for bread had been their job since childhood; their loyalty to us must be seen as a sign that they were not mistreated by us.

CHAPTER XXII

The Daedalus sets sail for Nootka
A temporary church is established
Criminal court
The colonial vessel is launched
A plan to take a longboat
Two soldiers desert
Counterfeit dollars are circulating
A soldier is punished
The Boddingtons arrives from Cork
General Court Martial takes place
The Britannia is hired and chartered for Bengal
The new church opens
Accident
Supplies in stock
Corn bought from settlers
The Britannia sails for Bengal, and the Francis Schooner heads for New Zealand
Irish convicts steal a boat
The Sugar Cane arrives
Planned mutiny on board is stopped
Excursion to the west
Public works

July.] On the first of this month the Daedalus sailed to convey to Captain Vancouver the provisions and stores which had been required by that officer. Lieutenant Hanson, the naval agent on board, received the most pointed orders for the ship to return to this port immediately after having executed the service on which she was then going. The Daedalus was considered as a colonial ship; and nothing but Captain Vancouver's express requisition to have the stores and provisions which were on board her (the stores being chiefly articles of traffic) sent back to him, to enable him to fulfil the instructions he had received, would have induced the lieutenant-governor, in the present state of the colony, to have parted with her, when it was not improbable that her services might be wanting to procure supplies, and at no very distant period, if ships did not arrive.

July.] On the first of this month, the Daedalus set sail to deliver the supplies and equipment requested by Captain Vancouver. Lieutenant Hanson, the naval officer on board, received strict orders for the ship to return to this port right after completing that task. The Daedalus was seen as a colonial ship, and only Captain Vancouver's specific request to have the supplies (mostly trade items) returned to him to help him carry out his instructions would have convinced the lieutenant-governor, given the current situation in the colony, to let her go, especially when it was likely that her services might be needed soon to gather supplies if ships didn’t arrive.

The Daedalus being, like other ships which had preceded her, short of hands, the master was permitted to recruit his numbers here, and took with him six convicts, who had served their several terms of transportation, and were of good character; and two seamen, who had been left behind from other ships. The extensive population of the islands at some of which the Daedalus might have occasion to touch rendered it absolutely necessary that she should be completely manned; as we well knew the readiness with which, at all times, their inhabitants availed themselves of any inferiority or weakness which they might discover among us.

The Daedalus, like other ships before her, was short on crew, so the captain was allowed to hire more people here. He took on six convicts who had completed their sentences and had good reputations, along with two sailors who had been left behind by other ships. The large population of the islands, where the Daedalus might stop, made it essential that the ship was fully staffed; we all knew how quickly the locals would take advantage of any weakness or vulnerability they might see in us.

On board of the Daedalus also was embarked a native of this country, who was sent by the lieutenant-governor for the purpose of acquiring our language. Lieutenant Hanson was directed by no means to leave him at Nootka, but, if he survived the voyage, to bring him back safe to his friends and countrymen. His native names were Gnung-a gnung-a, Mur-re-mur-gan; but he had for a long time entirely lost them, even among his own people, who called him 'Collins,' after the judge-advocate, whose name he had adopted on the first day of his coming among us. He was a man of a more gentle disposition than most of his associates; and, from the confidence he placed in us, very readily undertook the voyage, although he left behind him a young wife (a sister of Bennillong who accompanied Governor Phillip) of whom he always appeared extremely fond.

On board the Daedalus was a local native who had been sent by the lieutenant-governor to learn our language. Lieutenant Hanson was specifically instructed not to leave him at Nootka but, if he survived the journey, to safely return him to his friends and fellow countrymen. His native names were Gnung-a gnung-a and Mur-re-mur-gan; however, he had completely forgotten them over time, even among his own people, who called him 'Collins' after the judge-advocate, a name he had adopted on his first day with us. He was gentler than most of his peers, and because he trusted us, he agreed to the journey, even though he was leaving behind a young wife (a sister of Bennillong, who accompanied Governor Phillip) whom he seemed to care for a lot.

On Saturday the 6th the intended change took place in the ration; and it being a week on which pork was to be issued, three pounds of that article were served instead of four. The other articles remained the same.

On Saturday the 6th, the planned change in the rations happened; since it was a week when pork was supposed to be given out, three pounds of it were provided instead of four. The other items stayed the same.

The clergyman, who suffered as much inconvenience as other people from the want of a proper place for the performance of divine service, himself undertook to remove the evil, on finding that, from the pressure of other works it was not easy to foresee when a church would be erected. He accordingly began one under his own inspection, and chose the situation for it at the back of the huts on the east side of the cove. The front was seventy-three feet by fifteen; and at right angles with the centre projected another building forty feet by fifteen. The edifice was constructed of strong posts, wattles, and plaster, and was to be thatched.* Much credit was due to the Rev. Mr. Johnson for his personal exertions on this occasion.

The clergyman, who experienced as much inconvenience as others from the lack of a proper place for holding church services, decided to take action since it was unclear when a church would actually be built due to other demands. He began constructing one himself, overseeing the project, and chose a location behind the huts on the east side of the cove. The main part was seventy-three feet by fifteen; and at right angles in the center was another structure measuring forty feet by fifteen. The building was made of sturdy posts, wattles, and plaster, and was set to have a thatched roof.* A lot of credit goes to Rev. Mr. Johnson for his personal efforts in this matter.

[* The expense of building it was computed to be about forty pounds]

[* The cost of building it was estimated to be around forty pounds]

Representation having been made to the lieutenant-governor, that several of the soldiers had been so thoughtless as to dispose of the sugar and tobacco which had been served out to them by their officers since the arrival of the Britannia, almost as soon as they had received those articles, and that some artful people had availed themselves of their indiscretion, in many instances bartering a bottle of spirits (Cape brandy) for six times its value, he judged it necessary to give notice, that any convict detected in exchanging liquor with the soldiers for any article served out to them by their officers, would immediately be punished, and the articles purchased taken away: and further (now become a most necessary restriction), that any persons attempting to sell liquor without a licence might rely on its being seized, and the houses of the offending parties pulled down.

After informing the lieutenant-governor that some soldiers had foolishly sold the sugar and tobacco they received from their officers since the arrival of the Britannia, almost as soon as they got those items, and that some clever individuals had taken advantage of their carelessness by trading a bottle of spirits (Cape brandy) for six times its value, he decided it was necessary to announce that any convict caught exchanging liquor with soldiers for any items given to them by their officers would be punished immediately, and the purchased items would be confiscated. Furthermore (now a crucial restriction), anyone trying to sell liquor without a license should expect it to be seized, and the establishments of the offenders would be demolished.

About the middle of the month all the wheat which was to be sown on the public account was got in at and near Toongabbie; the quantity of ground was about three hundred and eighty acres. The wheat of last season being now nearly thrashed out, some judgment was formed of its produce, and it was found to have averaged between seventeen and eighteen bushels an acre. A large quantity of wheat was also sown this season by individuals, amounting to about one thousand three hundred and eighty-one bushels, every encouragement having been given to them to sow their grounds with that grain.

About the middle of the month, all the wheat meant for public planting was gathered at and around Toongabbie; the area covered was about three hundred and eighty acres. With last season's wheat nearly harvested, an estimate was made of its yield, which turned out to be between seventeen and eighteen bushels per acre on average. A significant amount of wheat was also sown this season by individuals, totaling about one thousand three hundred and eighty-one bushels, with plenty of encouragement given to them to plant that crop.

Several houses having been lately broken open, the criminal court of judicature was assembled on the 15th, when Samuel Wright, a convict who arrived in 1791, was tried for breaking into a hut in the day-time, and stealing several articles of wearing apparel; of which offence being found guilty, he received sentence of death, and was to have been executed on the Monday following; but the court having recommended him to mercy on account of his youth, being only sixteen years of age, the lieutenant-governor as readily forgave as the court had recommended him; but, that the prisoner might have all the benefit of so awful a situation, the change in his fate was not imparted to him until the very moment when he was about to ascend the ladder from which he was to be plunged into eternity. He had appeared since his conviction as if devoid of feeling; but on receiving this information, he fell on his knees in an agony of joy and gratitude. The solemn scene appeared likewise to make a forcible impression on all his fellow prisoners, who were present.

Several houses had recently been broken into, so the criminal court gathered on the 15th to try Samuel Wright, a convict who arrived in 1791, for breaking into a hut during the day and stealing several items of clothing. Being found guilty of this crime, he was sentenced to death and was set to be executed the following Monday. However, the court recommended him for mercy because he was only sixteen years old, and the lieutenant-governor quickly granted that mercy. To ensure the prisoner fully understood the gravity of his situation, the news of his reprieve was not shared with him until the exact moment he was about to climb the ladder leading to his execution. Since his conviction, he had seemed emotionless, but upon receiving this news, he fell to his knees in a mix of joy and gratitude. The serious nature of the scene also left a strong impact on all the other prisoners who were present.

The weather of this winter having been colder than any that we had before experienced, great exertions were made to clothe all the labouring convicts; and for that purpose the work of the tailors had for some time been confined to them. Every male convict received one cloth jacket, two canvas frocks, one pair of shoes, and one leathern cap. The females also had been clothed.

The weather this winter has been colder than any we’ve experienced before, so significant efforts were made to provide clothing for all the working convicts. To achieve this, the tailors had focused their work on them for some time. Every male convict received one cloth jacket, two canvas frocks, one pair of shoes, and one leather cap. The females also received clothing.

The vessel which had been received in frame by the Pitt was now completed, and, to avoid the labour which would have attended her being launched in the usual manner, Mr. Raven, the master of the Britannia, offered his own services and the assistance of his ship to lay her down upon her bilge, and put her into the water on rollers. This mode having been adopted, in the forenoon of Wednesday the 24th of this month she was safely let down upon the rollers, and by dusk, with the assistance of the Britannia, was hove down to low-water mark, whence, at a quarter before eight o'clock, she floated with the tide, and was hauled safely alongside the Britannia. The ceremony of christening her was performed at sunrise the next morning, when she was named The Francis, in compliment to the lieutenant-governor's son, whose birthday this was; and, Mr. Raven coinciding with the general opinion that she would be much safer if rigged as a schooner than as a sloop, for which she had been originally intended, the carpenters were directed to fit her accordingly; and that gentleman very obligingly supplied a spar, which he had procured for the Britannia at Dusky Bay, to make her a foremast.

The ship that had been framed by the Pitt was now finished, and to save the effort of launching it the usual way, Mr. Raven, the captain of the Britannia, offered his help and his ship to lay it down on its side and put it into the water on rollers. This method was used, and on the morning of Wednesday, the 24th of this month, it was carefully placed on the rollers. By sunset, with the help of the Britannia, it was moved down to low-water mark, and at a quarter before eight o'clock, it floated with the tide and was safely pulled alongside the Britannia. The christening ceremony took place at sunrise the next morning, and it was named The Francis, in honor of the lieutenant-governor's son, whose birthday it was; and since Mr. Raven agreed with the general view that it would be much safer rigged as a schooner rather than a sloop, as originally planned, the carpenters were instructed to fit it accordingly. That gentleman kindly provided a spar he had obtained for the Britannia at Dusky Bay to use as a foremast.

The command of this little vessel, of whose utility great expectations were formed, was given by the lieutenant-governor to Mr. William House, late boatswain of the Discovery, who arrived here in the Daedalus for the purpose of proceeding to England as an invalid; but being strongly recommended by Captain Vancouver as an excellent seaman, with whom he was very unwilling to part, and signifying a wish to be employed in this country, the command of this vessel was given to him, with the same allowance that is made to a superintendant; on which list he was placed. The two boys who were left behind from the Kitty were also entered for her, and she was ordered to be fitted forthwith for sea. As it was well known that many people had their eyes upon this vessel as the means of their escaping from the colony, it was intended, in addition to other precautions, that none but the most trusty people should ever be employed in her.

The command of this small ship, which had sparked high hopes for its usefulness, was given by the lieutenant governor to Mr. William House, the former boatswain of the Discovery. He had arrived here in the Daedalus intending to head to England for health reasons. However, Captain Vancouver strongly recommended him as an outstanding seaman, and he was reluctant to let him go. Since he expressed a desire to work here, the command of the ship was offered to him, along with the same salary as a superintendent; he was placed on that list. The two boys who were left behind from the Kitty were also assigned to her, and she was ordered to be prepared for sea immediately. It was well known that many people were keenly interested in this vessel as a way to escape the colony, so it was planned that, in addition to other security measures, only the most trustworthy individuals would be employed on her.

On the last day of the month a plan to take off one of the longboats was revealed to the lieutenant-governor. The principal parties in it were soldiers; and their scheme was, to proceed to Java, with a chart of which they had by some means been furnished. If their plan had been put into execution, the evil would have carried with it its own punishment; for, had they survived the voyage, they would never have been countenanced by the Dutch, who were always very jealous of strangers coming among them, and had, no doubt, heard of the desertion of Bryant and his associates from this settlement. Two of the soldiers were immediately put into confinement; and in the night two others, one a corporal, went off into the woods, taking with them their arms, about one hundred rounds of powder and ball, which they collected from the different pouches in the barrack, their provisions and necessaries.

On the last day of the month, a plan to take one of the longboats was revealed to the lieutenant-governor. The main players in this were soldiers, and their plan was to head to Java, for which they had somehow obtained a map. If they had actually carried out their plan, it would have backfired on them; because even if they had survived the journey, the Dutch, who were always very wary of outsiders, would have never welcomed them, especially since they likely knew about Bryant and his associates deserting this settlement. Two of the soldiers were immediately put in confinement, and during the night, two others, one of whom was a corporal, escaped into the woods, taking their weapons, about one hundred rounds of ammunition they collected from various pouches in the barracks, as well as their supplies and essentials.

The principal works in hand by the people at Sydney were, erecting kitchens and storerooms for the officers' new barracks, bringing in timber for rollers for the sloop, and constructing huts at Petersham for convicts. At Toongabbie the Indian corn was not all gathered, and housing of that, and preparing the ground for the reception of the next season's crop, occupied the labouring convicts at that settlement.

The main tasks being tackled by the people in Sydney included building kitchens and storage rooms for the officers' new barracks, bringing in timber for rollers for the sloop, and constructing huts at Petersham for convicts. At Toongabbie, not all the Indian corn had been harvested, and the work of housing it and preparing the ground for next season's crop kept the convicts busy at that settlement.

Some counterfeit dollars were at this time in circulation; but the manufacturers of them were not discovered.

Some counterfeit dollars were in circulation at this time, but the people who made them were not caught.

August.] The two soldiers who were put into confinement on suspicion of being parties in a plan to seize one of the long-boats, were tried by a regimental court-martial on the first day of this month, and one was acquitted; but Roberts, a drummer, who was proved to have attempted to persuade another drummer to be of the party, was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes, and in the evening did receive two hundred and twenty-five of them. While smarting under the severity with which his punishment was inflicted, he gave up the names of six or eight of his brother soldiers as concerned with him, among whom were the two who had absented themselves the preceding evening. These people, the day following their desertion, were met in the path to Parramatta, and told an absurd story of their being sent to the Blue Mountains. They were next heard of at a settler's (John Nicholls) at Prospect Hill, whose house they entered forcibly, and, making him and a convict hutkeeper prisoners, passed the night there. At another settler's they took sixteen pounds of flour, which they sent by his wife to a woman well known to one of them, and had them baked into small loaves. They signified a determination not to be taken alive, and threatened to lie in wait for the game-killers, of whose ammunition they meant to make themselves masters. These declarations manifested the badness of their hearts, and the weakness of their cause; and the lieutenant-governor, on being made acquainted with them, sent out a small armed party to secure and bring them in, rightly judging that people who were so ready at expressing every where a resolution to part with their lives rather than be taken, would not give much trouble in securing them.

August.] The two soldiers who were held in confinement on suspicion of being involved in a plan to take one of the longboats were tried by a regimental court-martial on the first day of this month. One was acquitted, but Roberts, a drummer, who was found to have tried to convince another drummer to join the plan, was sentenced to receive three hundred lashes. That evening, he received two hundred and twenty-five lashes. While enduring the pain of his punishment, he revealed the names of six or eight fellow soldiers who were involved, including the two who had gone AWOL the previous evening. The day after they deserted, these men were spotted on the road to Parramatta, telling a ridiculous story about being sent to the Blue Mountains. They were next heard from at a settler's place (John Nicholls) at Prospect Hill, where they broke in, took Nicholls and a convict hutkeeper hostage, and spent the night. At another settler's place, they stole sixteen pounds of flour, which they had sent through Nicholls's wife to a woman known to one of them, to be baked into small loaves. They expressed a determination not to be taken alive and threatened to ambush the game-killers, planning to seize their ammunition. These statements revealed their malicious intentions and the frailty of their situation. The lieutenant-governor, upon hearing about them, dispatched a small armed group to capture and bring them in, correctly assuming that people so eager to declare they would rather die than be caught would not put up much resistance when it came to their capture.

This desertion, and the disaffection of those who meant to take off a long-boat, was the more unaccountable, as the commanding officer had uniformly treated them with every indulgence, putting it entirely out of their power to complain on that head. Spirits and other comforts had been procured for them; he had distinguished them from the convicts in the ration of provisions; he had allowed them to build themselves comfortable huts, permitting them while so employed the use of the public boats; he had indulged them with women; and, in a word, have never refused any of them a request which did not militate against the rules of the service, or of the discipline which he had laid down for the New South Wales corps; at the same time, however, to prevent these indulgencies from falling into contempt, they were counterbalanced by a certainty of their being withdrawn when abused, and flagrant offenders were sure of meeting with punishment: yet there were many among them who were so ungrateful for the benefits which they received, and so unmindful of their own interest and accommodation, that they behaved ill whenever they had an opportunity.

This desertion, along with the discontent of those who planned to take a longboat, was even more baffling since the commanding officer had always treated them with every kindness, making it impossible for them to complain about it. He had arranged for them to have spirits and other comforts; he had given them better rations than the convicts; he had let them build comfortable huts and allowed them to use public boats while they worked on this; he had allowed them to have women; and, in short, he never turned down any request that didn’t go against the service rules or the discipline he established for the New South Wales corps. However, to ensure these privileges weren’t taken for granted, they were guaranteed to be taken away if misused, and anyone who broke the rules faced punishment. Yet, many among them were so ungrateful for the benefits they received and so careless about their own well-being that they acted poorly whenever they had the chance.

The parties who had been sent after the runaways, by dividing themselves, fell in with them near Toongabbie on the 6th. and secured them without any opposition.

The teams sent after the runaways split up and caught up with them near Toongabbie on the 6th and captured them without any resistance.

There were at this time in the New South Wales corps, distributed among the different companies, thirty recruits who had been selected from among the convicts as people of good characters, and, having formerly been in the army, were permitted to enlist. These people had conducted themselves with remarkable propriety, one man only excepted, who had some time since been punished by the sentence of a court-martial, and who afterwards misbehaving was discharged from the corps. They were in general enlisted for life, a condition to which they subscribed on being attested; and such as had a long time to serve under their sentence, were emancipated on the above condition.

At this time, the New South Wales corps had thirty recruits spread across different companies. These recruits were chosen from among the convicts for their good character and were allowed to enlist because they had previously served in the army. They had generally behaved very well, except for one man who had been punished by a court-martial some time ago and was later discharged for misbehavior. In general, they were enlisted for life, which was a condition they agreed to upon joining, and those who had a long sentence were released on this condition.

On the 7th the Boddingtons transport anchored in the cove from Ireland, having sailed from Cork on the 15th of February last, with one hundred and twenty-four male, and twenty female convicts of that kingdom on board, provisions calculated to serve them nine months* after their arrival, and a proportion of clothing for twelve months. As a guard, there was embarked a subaltern's party of the New South Wales corps; and this precaution was found to have been very necessary, the ignorance of the Irish convicts having displayed itself in an absurd scheme to take the ship; but which was happily frustrated by the vigilance and activity of the master** and the officers.

On the 7th, the Boddingtons transport anchored in the cove after coming from Ireland, having left Cork on February 15th, with one hundred and twenty-four male and twenty female convicts from that kingdom on board, provisions meant to last nine months after their arrival, and a supply of clothing for twelve months. To guard the transport, a junior officer’s party from the New South Wales corps was on board; this measure proved to be very necessary, as the ignorance of the Irish convicts revealed itself in a ridiculous plan to take over the ship, which was fortunately thwarted by the vigilance and quick actions of the captain and the officers.

[* Two hundred and twenty-eight barrels of flour; one hundred and eight tierces of pork, and fifty-four tierces of beef; twenty-eight bales and thirteen cases of stores.]

[* 228 barrels of flour; 108 tierces of pork; 54 tierces of beef; 28 bales and 13 cases of supplies.]

[* Captain Robert Chalmers, on the captain's half pay of the marines.]

[* Captain Robert Chalmers, receiving half pay as a marine.]

Mr. Richards jun, who had the contract for supplying the ships which sailed for this country in 1788 and the Lady Juliana transport, was employed again by government; a circumstance of general congratulation among the colonists on its being made known. On the present occasion he had contracted to furnish two ships to bring out three hundred male and female convicts from Ireland, with stores and provisions. The Boddingtons, being the first ready, sailed alone; the Sugar Cane (the second ship) was at Deptford ready to drop down to Gravesend when her intended companion was about leaving Ireland. Government were to pay four pounds four shillings per ton for such stores as should be put on board, and for the convicts at the rate of twenty-two pounds per head. This mode of payment was complained of in the contract made formerly with Messrs. Calvert and Co.; but in the present instance the evil attending that contract was avoided, by a part of the above sum (five pounds) being left to be paid by certificate for every convict which should be landed. No ship, however, could have brought out their convicts in higher order, nor could have given stronger proofs of attention to their health and accommodation, than did this vessel. Each had a bed to himself, and a new suit of clothes to land in. On the part of the crown also, to see justice done to the convicts, there was a surgeon of the navy on board, Mr. Kent, as a superintendant; and on the part of the contractor, a gentleman who had visited us before with Mr. Marshall, in the second voyage of the Scarborough to this country, Mr. A. Jac. Bier, a surgeon also. They had not any sick list, and had lost only one man on the passage.

Mr. Richards Jr., who had the contract to supply the ships that sailed for this country in 1788, including the Lady Juliana transport, was employed by the government again, which was celebrated among the colonists when it was announced. This time, he had contracted to provide two ships to bring out three hundred male and female convicts from Ireland, along with supplies and provisions. The Boddingtons, being the first ready, sailed alone; the Sugar Cane (the second ship) was at Deptford, prepared to head down to Gravesend when her intended partner was about to leave Ireland. The government agreed to pay four pounds four shillings per ton for the supplies loaded on board, and twenty-two pounds for each convict. This payment method had been criticized in the previous contract with Messrs. Calvert and Co.; however, in this case, the issue was avoided by allowing five pounds to be paid by certificate for each convict that was disembarked. No ship, however, could have brought their convicts in better condition or demonstrated greater concern for their health and comfort than this vessel. Each convict had their own bed and received a new suit of clothes for disembarkation. To ensure fair treatment of the convicts, there was a navy surgeon on board, Mr. Kent, serving as a supervisor; and representing the contractor was a gentleman who had previously visited us with Mr. Marshall on the second voyage of the Scarborough to this country, Mr. A. Jac. Bier, who was also a surgeon. They did not have any sick list and had lost only one man during the voyage.

Captain Chalmers informed us, that on his arrival at Rio de Janeiro, in which port he anchored on the 10th of last April, he heard that the Atlantic transport had sailed thence about three weeks, and had made her passage from this country round Cape Horn to Rio de Janeiro in fifty-eight days. He learned from the gentlemen about the palace, that his excellency Governor Phillip when he touched there appeared to be in perfect health. He had there too heard of the agitated state of Europe; and understanding that in all probability the Channel would be infested with French privateers, he purchased some guns, to strengthen the force which he had already on board the Atlantic.

Captain Chalmers told us that when he arrived in Rio de Janeiro, where he anchored on April 10th, he heard that the Atlantic transport had left about three weeks earlier and made the journey from this country around Cape Horn to Rio de Janeiro in fifty-eight days. He learned from the people around the palace that Governor Phillip seemed to be in perfect health when he visited there. He also heard about the unsettled situation in Europe and, knowing that the Channel would likely be swarming with French privateers, he bought some guns to bolster the force he already had on board the Atlantic.

Advices were received by this ship, that administration intended to make arrangements for our being supplied from Bengal with live cattle: and this became a favourite idea with every person in the colony; for the sheep, though small, were found to be very productive, breeding twice in the year, and generally bringing two lambs at a birth. The climate was also found to agree well with the cattle of the buffalo species which had been received.

Advices were received by this ship that the administration planned to arrange for us to be supplied with live cattle from Bengal. This idea quickly became a favorite among everyone in the colony because the sheep, although small, were very productive, breeding twice a year and usually giving birth to two lambs. The climate also proved to be suitable for the buffalo cattle that had been brought in.

The convicts received by the Boddingtons were disembarked a day or two after her arrival, and sent up to Toongabbie. On quitting the ship they with one voice bore testimony to the humane treatment they had received from Captain Chalmers, declaring that they had not any complaints to prefer, and cheering him when the boats which carried them put off from her side.

The prisoners brought aboard the Boddingtons were unloaded a day or two after the ship arrived and sent up to Toongabbie. As they left the ship, they all praised the kind treatment they had received from Captain Chalmers, stating that they had no complaints to make, and cheered him as the boats that took them away pushed off from the ship.

It being necessary to mark with some degree of severity the offence which had been committed by the two soldiers, a general court-martial was assembled for their trial on the 12th. The lieutenant-governor, with much humanity, forebore to charge them with a capital offence; bringing them to trial for absenting themselves from head-quarters without leave, instead of the more serious crime of desertion.

It was necessary to address the offense committed by the two soldiers with some seriousness, so a general court-martial was set up for their trial on the 12th. The lieutenant-governor, showing considerable compassion, chose not to charge them with a capital offense; instead, he brought them to trial for being absent from headquarters without permission, rather than the more serious charge of desertion.

By the mutiny act, a general court-martial may, in Africa, consist of less than thirteen commissioned officers, but not less than five; the like provision was also extended to New South Wales; and nine officers formed the court now assembled for the first time in this colony. Captain Collins officiated as deputy judge-advocate. The prisoners did not deny the crime they were charged with; and the court, after reducing the corporal to the ranks, sentenced him to receive five hundred lashes, and the private soldier eight hundred. The sentence, being approved by the lieutenant-governor, was in part carried into execution on Saturday the 17th, the corporal receiving two hundred and seventy-five, and the soldier three hundred lashes.

By the mutiny act, a general court-martial in Africa can consist of fewer than thirteen commissioned officers, but at least five; a similar rule was also applied in New South Wales; and nine officers made up the court that convened for the first time in this colony. Captain Collins served as the deputy judge-advocate. The prisoners admitted to the crime they were accused of; and the court, after demoting the corporal to the ranks, sentenced him to receive five hundred lashes, and the private soldier eight hundred. The sentence, after being approved by the lieutenant-governor, was partially carried out on Saturday the 17th, with the corporal receiving two hundred and seventy-five lashes and the soldier getting three hundred.

South-east view in Sydney, including the church, etc.

The Britannia being now nearly ready for sea, having had some very necessary articles of repair done to her, and which the master declared had been as well executed by the artificers of the colony as if the ship had been in England, she was tendered to be employed for the service of the settlement wherever the lieutenant-governor might think it necessary to send her. In the charter-party of the Boddingtons, a clause was inserted, empowering the governor to send her to Norfolk Island, or elsewhere, should he have occasion, the crown paying the same hire as was paid for the Atlantic transport (fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month) during the time she should be so employed. The Britannia was tendered at one shilling per ton less, and had moreover the advantage of being a coppered ship.

The Britannia was almost ready to set sail after completing some important repairs, which the captain said were done just as well by the local craftsmen as if the ship had been in England. She was offered to be used for the settlement's needs wherever the lieutenant-governor deemed it necessary. In the charter-party for the Boddingtons, there was a clause that allowed the governor to send her to Norfolk Island or elsewhere if needed, with the crown covering the same hire rate that was paid for the Atlantic transport (fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month) for as long as she was used. The Britannia was offered at one shilling less per ton and also had the advantage of being a coppered ship.

It has been seen that the supply brought by the Boddingtons was very inconsiderable. No greater quantity was expected with any degree of certainty by the Sugar Cane. The salt provisions remaining in store (by a calculation made up to the 28th) were sufficient for only fourteen weeks at the full ration, including what had been received by the Boddingtons, and some surplus provisions which had been purchased of the agent to the contractor, and one hundred casks of pork, which had been omitted by an oversight in the last account taken in May a few days before the Kitty sailed. When it was considered that our supplies would always be affected by commotions at home, and that if a war should take place between England and any other nation, which at the departure of the Boddingtons was hourly expected, they might be retarded, or taken by the enemy, the lieutenant-governor determined, while he had in his own hands the means of supplying himself, to employ them; and on the 26th chartered the Britannia for India. Our principal want was salt provisions; of flour we well remembered that Bengal produced none, and a coming crop was before us on our own grounds. The Britannia was therefore to proceed to Bengal, to be freighted by the government of that presidency with salt provisions, Irish beef or pork; and in the event of its not being possible to procure them, the ship was to return loaded with sugar, rice, and dholl, these being the articles which, next to salt provisions, were the most wanted in the colony.

It has been observed that the supply brought by the Boddingtons was very limited. No larger quantity was expected with any certainty by the Sugar Cane. The remaining salt provisions in stock (according to a calculation made up to the 28th) were enough for only fourteen weeks at the full ration, including what had been received by the Boddingtons, some extra provisions that had been bought from the agent for the contractor, and one hundred casks of pork, which had been accidentally left out of the last account taken in May just before the Kitty set sail. Considering that our supplies would always be influenced by unrest back home, and that if a war were to occur between England and any other nation, which was highly anticipated at the time of the Boddingtons' departure, they might be delayed or seized by the enemy, the lieutenant-governor decided, while he still had the means to supply himself, to take action; and on the 26th, he chartered the Britannia for India. Our main need was for salt provisions; we well remembered that Bengal produced none of that, and a future crop was available from our own lands. The Britannia was therefore to head to Bengal, where it would be loaded by the government of that presidency with salt provisions, Irish beef, or pork; and if it wasn't possible to obtain those, the ship was to return loaded with sugar, rice, and dholl, as these were the items most needed in the colony after salt provisions.

Mr. Raven, the master of the Britannia, having, as was before observed, left a mate and some of his people at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, the lieutenant-governor directed the Francis to be got ready with all expedition, purposing that she should accompany the Britannia as far on her way as that harbour, where she had permission to touch; and Mr. Raven was directed to transmit by the master all such information respecting that extensive bay, and the seal-fishery in its vicinity, as he should be of opinion might in anywise tend to the present or future benefit of his Majesty's service as connected with these settlements.

Mr. Raven, the captain of the Britannia, having, as mentioned earlier, left a first mate and some crew members at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, the lieutenant-governor ordered the Francis to be prepared as quickly as possible, intending for her to accompany the Britannia as far as that harbor, where she had permission to stop. Mr. Raven was instructed to send through the captain all the information he thought could be beneficial, either now or in the future, to support His Majesty's interests related to these settlements, specifically about that large bay and the seal fishery nearby.

The clergyman having completed the building which he began in July last, divine service was performed in it for the first time on Sunday the 25th of this month; and for a temporary accommodation it appeared likely to answer very well. Mr. Johnson in his discourse, which was intended to impress the minds of his audience with the necessity of holiness in every place, lamented that the urgency of public works had prevented any undertaking of the kind before, and had thus thrown it upon him; he declared that he had no other motive for standing forward in the business, than that of establishing a place sheltered from bad weather, and from the summer heats, where public worship might be performed. He said, that the uncertainty of a place where they might attend had prevented many from coming; but he now hoped the attendance would be full whenever he preached there. The place was constructed to hold five hundred people.

The clergyman finished the building he started last July, and the first service was held there on Sunday the 25th of this month. It seemed like a good temporary solution. Mr. Johnson, in his talk, aimed to make his audience realize the need for holiness everywhere and expressed regret that the demands of public projects had delayed such efforts until now, putting the responsibility on him. He stated that his only reason for stepping up was to create a place that was protected from bad weather and summer heat, where public worship could take place. He mentioned that the uncertainty about where they could gather had kept many people away, but he now hoped attendance would be strong whenever he preached there. The venue was designed to hold five hundred people.

It appeared by an estimate which Mr. Johnson afterwards gave in, for the purpose of being reimbursed what it had cost him, that the expense of this building considerably exceeded his first calculation, the whole amount of it being £67 12s 11½d; of which Mr. Johnson paid to the different artificers he had employed £59 18s in dollars; twenty gallons and a half of spirits; one hundred and sixteen pounds of flour; fifty-two pounds of salt provisions; three pounds of tobacco; and five ounces of tea. Spirits were at this time sold in the colony at ten shillings per gallon; but Mr. Johnson observed in his estimate that he only charged that and other articles at the prices which they had actually cost him. This account Mr. Johnson requested might be transmitted to the secretary of state, and he accompanied it with a letter stating his reasons for having undertaken the building?

It turned out, based on an estimate that Mr. Johnson later provided to get reimbursed for his costs, that the expenses for the building were significantly higher than he initially calculated, totaling £67 12s 11½d. Mr. Johnson paid the various workers he hired £59 18s in cash; twenty and a half gallons of spirits; one hundred and sixteen pounds of flour; fifty-two pounds of salted provisions; three pounds of tobacco; and five ounces of tea. At that time, spirits were sold in the colony for ten shillings per gallon, but Mr. Johnson noted in his estimate that he only charged for this and other items at the prices they actually cost him. He requested that this account be sent to the secretary of state and included a letter explaining his reasons for undertaking the building.

The Boddingtons were cleared of her cargo, and discharged from Government employ on the 26th. The cargo, when landed, was found in most excellent condition, not a single article being damaged; far different from that received by the Bellona, where the ship was overloaded. Had the Boddingtons been coppered, no ship could have been better calculated for the transport of provisions to this country from any part of the world.

The Boddingtons finished unloading their cargo and were released from government service on the 26th. The cargo, when offloaded, was in excellent condition, with not a single item damaged; very different from what the Bellona received, where the ship was overloaded. If the Boddingtons had been copper-bottomed, no ship would have been better suited for transporting provisions to this country from anywhere in the world.

A remarkable instance of fecundity in a female goat occurred at the house of one of the superintendants at Sydney. She produced five kids, three females and two males, all of which died (a blow which the animal received bringing them before their time) excepting the first which was kidded, a female. The same goat in March last brought four kids, three males and one female, all of which lived. She was a remarkably fine creature.

A notable example of fertility in a female goat happened at the home of one of the supervisors in Sydney. She gave birth to five kids—three females and two males—all of which died (another blow the animal received brought them before their time), except for the first one that was born, a female. That same goat in March gave birth to four kids—three males and one female—all of which survived. She was an exceptionally fine animal.

Much apprehension was now entertained for the wheat, which began to look yellow and parched for want of rain. Toward the latter end of the month, however, some rain fell during three days and nights, which considerably refreshed it. But there being no fixed period at which wet weather was to be expected in this country, it might certainly be pronounced too dry for wheat.

Much worry was now felt for the wheat, which had started to look yellow and dry from lack of rain. Toward the end of the month, though, some rain fell over three days and nights, which really helped it. But since there was no set time when rainy weather was expected in this area, it could definitely be said to be too dry for wheat.

An unpleasant accident occurred at the lieutenant-governor's farm. A convict of good character, who had the care of the sheep, was found dead in the woods. He had declined coming in to his breakfast, and was left eating some bread made of Indian corn and coarse-ground wheat. His body was opened, but no cause for his sudden dissolution could be assigned from its appearance.

An unfortunate accident happened at the lieutenant-governor's farm. A convict of good standing, who was responsible for the sheep, was found dead in the woods. He had refused to come in for breakfast and was left eating some cornmeal bread and coarse wheat bread. His body was examined, but no cause for his sudden death could be determined from its appearance.

At the Ponds, a district of settlers in the neighbourhood of Parramatta, John Richards, in possession of a grant of thirty acres of land, died of intoxication. This was the first death which had occurred among any of the people of that description.

At the Ponds, a settlement area near Parramatta, John Richards, who owned a thirty-acre land grant, died from alcohol poisoning. This was the first death among this group of people.

By an account taken of the provisions remaining in store on the 28th of the month, it appeared that we had, calculating each article at the established ration for two thousand eight hundred and forty-five persons, the numbers victualled at Sydney and Parramatta,

By a count of the supplies left on the 28th of the month, it showed that we had, calculating each item at the set ration for two thousand eight hundred and forty-five people, the number served in Sydney and Parramatta,

Flour,         to last    4 weeks, -- or  91,040 lbs
Beef,          to last    3 weeks, -- or  59,745 lbs
Pork,          to last   11 weeks, -- or 125,180 lbs
Wheat,         to last    1 week,  -- or  22,760 lbs
Gram and Peas, to last    8 weeks, -- or  68,280 lbs
Sugar,         to last    3 weeks, -- or   3,200 lbs
Paddy,                                    43,000 lbs

Flour,         enough for    4 weeks, -- or  91,040 lbs  
Beef,          enough for    3 weeks, -- or  59,745 lbs  
Pork,          enough for   11 weeks, -- or 125,180 lbs  
Wheat,         enough for    1 week,  -- or  22,760 lbs  
Gram and Peas, enough for    8 weeks, -- or  68,280 lbs  
Sugar,         enough for    3 weeks, -- or   3,200 lbs  
Paddy,                                    43,000 lbs

September.] Unproductive as the Indian corn proved which was sown last year on the public grounds, the settlers must have had a better crop; for, after reserving a sufficiency for seed for the ensuing season, and for their domestic purposes, a few had raised enough to enable them to sell twelve hundred bushels to Government, who, on receiving it into the public stores, paid five shillings per bushel to the bringer. Government, however, was not resorted to in the first instance by the settler, who preferred disposing of his corn where he could receive spirits in payment (which he retailed for labour) to bringing it to the commissary for five shillings a bushel; but at this price, from whose hands soever it might come, it was received into the public stores.

September.] Although the Indian corn planted last year on public land was not productive, the settlers must have had a better yield; after keeping enough for seed for the next season and their personal use, a few managed to harvest enough to sell twelve hundred bushels to the Government, which paid five shillings per bushel upon receipt into the public stores. However, the settlers didn’t initially turn to the Government; they preferred to sell their corn where they could get spirits in exchange, which they later sold for labor, rather than taking it to the commissary for five shillings a bushel. Regardless of who it came from, that price was accepted into the public stores.

The Britannia and Francis schooner sailed on Sunday. the 8th for Dusky Bay. The Francis was manned with seamen and boys who had been left here from ships, and the master had for his assistant as mate Robert Watson, who formerly belonged to his Majesty's ship Sirius, and was afterwards a settler at Norfolk Island; but his allotment having been erroneously surveyed, he, being obliged to resign a part of it, gave up the whole, and gladly returned to his former way of life. One of the three seamen who had been taken out of the Kitty, and punished, was permitted to enter on board the schooner; another of them was taken by the captain of the Boddingtons; Williams, the principal, remained in the colony, not bearing that sort of character which would recommend him to any master of a ship.

The Britannia and Francis schooner set sail on Sunday, the 8th, for Dusky Bay. The Francis was crewed by seamen and boys who had been left here from other ships, and the captain's assistant was Robert Watson, who had previously served on His Majesty's ship Sirius and later became a settler at Norfolk Island. However, since his land was incorrectly surveyed and he had to give up part of it, he decided to return to his previous way of life. Of the three seamen taken from the Kitty and punished, one was allowed to join the schooner, another was taken by the captain of the Boddingtons, and Williams, the main one, stayed in the colony because he didn't have the kind of reputation that would attract any ship captain.

Captain Nicholas Nepean, the senior captain in the New South Wales corps, having been for some time past in an ill state of health, obtained the lieutenant-governor's leave to return to England by the way of Bengal, and quitted the colony in the Britannia. Three men and one woman also received permission to leave the settlement.

Captain Nicholas Nepean, the senior captain in the New South Wales corps, had been unwell for some time and got permission from the lieutenant-governor to return to England via Bengal. He left the colony on the Britannia. Three men and one woman were also given permission to leave the settlement.

It might have been supposed, that the fatal consequences of endeavouring to seek a place in the woods of this country where they might live without labour had been sufficiently felt by the convicts who arrived here in the Queen transport from Ireland, to deter others from rushing into the same error, as they would, doubtless, acquaint the new comers with the ill success which attended their schemes of that nature. Several of those, however, who came out in the Boddingtons went off into the woods soon after their landing; and a small party, composed of some desperate characters, about the same time stole a boat from Mr. Schaffer, the settler, with which, as they were not heard of for some days after, it was supposed they had either got out of the harbour, or were lying concealed until, being joined by those who had taken to the woods, they could procure a larger and a safer conveyance from the country.

It might have been thought that the deadly consequences of trying to find a place in the woods of this country where they could live without working had been clearly experienced by the convicts who arrived here on the Queen transport from Ireland, which would discourage others from making the same mistake, as they would certainly warn the newcomers about the failures that came with those plans. However, several of those who came on the Boddingtons disappeared into the woods soon after they arrived; and a small group made up of some desperate individuals, around the same time, stole a boat from Mr. Schaffer, the settler. Since they hadn’t been heard from for several days afterward, it was believed they had either escaped from the harbor or were hiding out until they could join up with those who had gone into the woods to find a larger and safer way to leave the country.

A slight change took place in the ration this month; the sugar being expended, molasses was ordered to be served in lieu of that article, in the proportion of a pint of molasses to a pound of sugar.

A small change occurred in the ration this month; since the sugar was running out, molasses was ordered to be given instead, at a ratio of a pint of molasses for every pound of sugar.

On Sunday the 15th died James Nation, a soldier in the New South Wales corps, into which he had entered from the marine detachment. He sunk under an inflammatory complaint brought on by hard drinking. With this person Martha Todd cohabited at the time of her decease, which, as before related, was occasioned by the same circumstance, and which, together with her death, Nation had been frequently heard to say was the cause of much unhappiness to him.

On Sunday the 15th, James Nation, a soldier in the New South Wales corps who had come from the marine detachment, passed away. He succumbed to an inflammatory illness caused by heavy drinking. At the time of her death, he was living with Martha Todd, whose demise, as previously mentioned, was also due to the same issue. Nation had often been heard saying that both her death and their situation brought him a lot of misery.

On Tuesday the 17th the signal was made at the South Head, and about six o'clock in the evening the Sugar Cane transport anchored in the cove from Cork, whence she sailed the 13th of last April, having on board one hundred and ten male and fifty female convicts, with a sergeant's party of the New South Wales corps as a guard. Nothing had happened on board her until the 25th of May, when information was given to Mr. David Wake Bell, the agent on the part of Government, that a mutiny was intended by the convicts, and that they had proceeded so far as to saw off some of their irons. Insinuations were at the same time thrown out, of the probability of their being joined by certain of the sailors and of the guard. The agent, after making the necessary inquiry, thought it indispensable to the safety of the ship to cause an instant example to be made, and ordered one of the convicts who was found out of irons to be executed that night. Others he punished the next morning; and by these measures, as might well be expected, threw such a damp on the spirits of the rest, that he heard no more during the voyage of attempts or intentions to take the ship.

On Tuesday the 17th, the signal was sent from South Head, and around six in the evening, the Sugar Cane transport anchored in the cove after leaving Cork, where she had departed on the 13th of last April. On board were one hundred and ten male and fifty female convicts, along with a sergeant's party from the New South Wales corps as a guard. Nothing significant happened on the ship until May 25th, when Mr. David Wake Bell, the government agent, was informed that the convicts were planning a mutiny and had even begun sawing off some of their shackles. There were also hints that some of the sailors and guards might join them. After conducting the necessary inquiries, the agent concluded that for the ship's safety, it was crucial to make an immediate example. He ordered the execution of one convict found out of his shackles that night, and he punished others the following morning. As could be expected, these actions severely dampened the spirits of the remaining convicts, and he heard no further attempts or plans to take the ship during the voyage.

Since the arrival of the Boddingtons many circumstances respecting the intended mutiny in that ship had been disclosed by the convicts themselves which were not before known. They did not hesitate to say, that all the officers were to have been murdered, the first* mate and the agent excepted, who were to be preserved alive for the purpose of conducting the ship to a port, when they likewise were to be put to death.

Since the arrival of the Boddingtons, many details about the planned mutiny on that ship have been revealed by the convicts that were previously unknown. They openly stated that all the officers were meant to be killed, except for the first mate and the agent, who were to be kept alive to navigate the ship to a port, after which they too were to be executed.

[* Mr. Duncan McEver. He belonged to the Atlantic, which ship he quitted at Bengal.]

[* Mr. Duncan McEver. He was a part of the Atlantic, which he left in Bengal.]

As intentions of this kind had been talked of in several ships, the military guard should never have been less than an officer's command, and that guard (especially when embarked for the security of a ship full of wild lawless Irish) ought never to have been composed either of young soldiers, or of deserters from other corps.

As these kinds of intentions had been discussed on several ships, the military guard should have always been under the command of an officer, and that guard (especially when on board for the safety of a ship full of unruly, lawless Irish) should never have been made up of young soldiers or deserters from other units.

This ship had a quick passage from Rio de Janeiro, arriving here in sixty-five days from that port. She brought the following quantity of provisions and stores for the colony:

This ship had a fast journey from Rio de Janeiro, getting here in sixty-five days from that port. She brought the following amount of supplies and resources for the colony:

Beef                         46 tierces 15,496 ) 31,496 pounds;
   Shipped at Cork           80 barrels 16,000 )
Pork                         92 tierces 29,440 ] 45,440 pounds;
   Shipped at Cork           80 barrels 16,000 ]
Flour                       192 barrels,         64,512 pounds;
Lime-stone, shipped at Cork                      44 tons;
Clothing and necessaries                         17 bales and 5 cases

Beef                         46 tierces (15,496) 31,496 pounds;  
   Shipped from Cork           80 barrels (16,000)  
Pork                         92 tierces (29,440) 45,440 pounds;  
   Shipped from Cork           80 barrels (16,000)  
Flour                       192 barrels,         64,512 pounds;  
Limestone, shipped from Cork                      44 tons;  
Clothing and essentials                         17 bales and 5 cases

The convicts arrived in a very healthy state, nor was any one lost by sickness during the voyage.

The convicts arrived in great health, and no one got sick during the journey.

Captain Paterson, of the New South Wales corps, an account of whose journeys in Africa appeared in print some years ago, conceiving that he might be able to penetrate as far as, or even beyond, the western mountains (commonly known in the colony by the name of the Blue Mountains, from the appearance which land so high and distant generally wears), set off from the settlement with a small party of gentlemen (Captain Johnston, Mr. Palmer, and Mr. Laing the assistant-surgeon) well provided with arms, and having provisions and necessaries sufficient for a journey of six weeks, to make the attempt. Boats were sent round to Broken Bay, whence they got into the Hawkesbury, and the fourth day reached as far as Richmond Hill. At this place, in the year 1789, the governor's progress up the river was obstructed by a fall of water, which his boats were too heavy to drag over. This difficulty Captain Paterson overcame by quitting his large boats, and proceeding from Richmond Hill with two that were smaller and lighter. He found that this part of the river carried him to the westward, and into the chasm that divided the high land seen from Richmond Hill. Hither, however, he got with great difficulty and some danger, meeting in the space of about ten miles with not less than five waterfalls, one of which was rather steep, and was running at the rate of ten or twelve miles an hour. Above this part the water was about fifteen yards from side to side, and came down with some rapidity, a fall of rain having swollen the stream. Their navigation was here so intricate, lying between large pieces of rock that had been borne down by torrents, and some stumps of trees which they could not always see, that (after having loosened a plank in one boat, and driven the other upon a stump which forced its way through her bottom) they gave up any further progress, leaving the western mountains to be the object of discovery at some future day. It was supposed that they had proceeded ten miles farther up the river than had ever before been done, and named that part of it which until then had been unseen, 'the Grose;' and a high peak of land, which they had in view in the chasm, they called 'Harrington Peak.'

Captain Paterson, from the New South Wales corps, who published an account of his travels in Africa a few years back, believed he could journey as far as or even past the western mountains (known in the colony as the Blue Mountains due to their distant, hazy appearance). He set out from the settlement with a small group of gentlemen (Captain Johnston, Mr. Palmer, and Mr. Laing the assistant surgeon) who were well-equipped with arms, provisions, and essentials for a six-week journey. They sent boats around to Broken Bay, then entered the Hawkesbury River, reaching as far as Richmond Hill by the fourth day. Here, in 1789, the governor had to halt his journey up the river due to a waterfall that his boats were too heavy to navigate over. Captain Paterson tackled this challenge by abandoning his larger boats and moving forward from Richmond Hill with two smaller and lighter ones. He discovered that this section of the river led him westward into the gap that separated the highlands visible from Richmond Hill. However, he faced significant difficulty and danger in this area, encountering five waterfalls over just ten miles, one of which was quite steep and flowed at about ten to twelve miles per hour. Above this point, the river spanned roughly fifteen yards across and flowed swiftly due to recent rain increasing the water level. The navigation was tricky, with large rocks washed down by torrents and tree stumps hidden just beneath the surface, leading to challenges like loosening a plank in one boat and damaging the other by crashing it onto a stump that breached its bottom. Ultimately, they decided to abandon further progress and leave the western mountains for exploration another day. It was believed they had traveled ten miles further up the river than anyone had before and named that previously unseen section ‘the Grose’; they also designated a prominent peak of land visible in the gap as 'Harrington Peak.'

Captain Paterson, as a botanist, was amply rewarded for his labour and disappointment by discovering several new plants. Of the soil in which they grew, he did not, however, speak very favourably.

Captain Paterson, a botanist, was well rewarded for his hard work and disappointments by discovering several new plants. However, he didn’t have much good to say about the soil they grew in.

He saw but few natives, and those who did visit them were almost unintelligible to the natives of this place who accompanied him. He entertained a notion that their legs and arms were longer than those of the inhabitants of the coast. As they live by climbing trees, if there really was any such difference, it might perhaps have been occasioned by the custom of hanging by their arms and resting on their feet at the utmost stretch of the body, which they practise from their infancy. The party returned on the 22nd, having been absent about ten days.

He saw only a few locals, and those who came to visit him were almost impossible for the locals accompanying him to understand. He thought their arms and legs were longer than those of the people living on the coast. Since they climb trees for a living, if there was any difference, it might have come from the way they hang by their arms and rest on their feet, which they practice from a young age. The group returned on the 22nd, having been away for about ten days.

In their walk to Pitt Water, they met with the boat which had been stolen by some of the Irish convicts; and a few days after their return some of those who had run into the woods came into Parramatta, with an account of two of their party having been speared and killed by the natives. The men who were killed were of very bad character, and had been the principals in the intended mutiny on board the Boddingtons. Their destruction was confirmed by some of the natives who lived in the town.

In their walk to Pitt Water, they encountered the boat that had been stolen by some Irish convicts. A few days after their return, some of those who had fled into the woods showed up in Parramatta, reporting that two members of their group had been speared and killed by the locals. The men who were killed had very bad reputations and were key players in the planned mutiny on the Boddingtons. The locals in town confirmed their deaths.

The foundation of another barrack for officers was begun in this month. For the privates one only was yet erected; but this was not attended with any inconvenience, as all those who were not in quarters had built themselves comfortable huts between the town of Sydney and the brick-kilns. This indulgence might be attended with some convenience to the soldiers; but it had ever been considered, that soldiers could no where be so well regulated as when living in quarters, where, by frequent inspections and visitings, their characters would be known, and their conduct attended to. In a multiplicity of scattered huts the eye of vigilance would with difficulty find its object, and the soldier in possession of a habitation of his own might, in a course of time, think of himself more as an independent citizen, than as a subordinate soldier.

The construction of another barracks for officers started this month. So far, only one barracks for the privates had been built, but this wasn't much of a problem since those not living in the barracks had made themselves comfortable huts between the town of Sydney and the brick kilns. While this arrangement might have been convenient for the soldiers, it was always believed that soldiers were better managed when living in quarters. There, with regular inspections and visits, their behavior could be monitored and their character assessed. In a scattered collection of huts, it would be hard for anyone to keep track of the soldiers, and over time, a soldier with their own place might start to see themselves more as an independent citizen rather than just a subordinate soldier.

On the 23rd the first part of the cargo of the Sugar Cane was delivered, and in a very few days all that she had on board on account of government was received into the store, together with some surplus provisions of the contractor's. The convicts which she brought out were, very soon after her arrival, sent to the settlements up the harbour. At these places the labouring people were employed, some in getting the Indian corn for the ensuing season into such ground as was ready, and others in preparing the remainder. At the close of the month, through the favourable rains which had fallen, the wheat in general wore the most flattering appearance, giving every promise of a plenteous harvest. At Toongabbie the wheat appeared to bid defiance to any accident but fire, against which some precautions had however been judiciously and timely taken. From this place, and from the settlers, a quantity of corn sufficient to supply all our numbers for a twelvemonth was expected to be received into the public granaries, if those who looked so far forward, and took into their calculation much corn not yet in ear, were not too sanguine in their expectations.

On the 23rd, the first part of the cargo from the Sugar Cane was delivered, and within just a few days, everything she had on board for the government was received into storage, along with some extra provisions from the contractor. The convicts she brought were quickly sent to the settlements up the harbor after her arrival. At these locations, the laborers were busy, some planting Indian corn for the upcoming season in the prepared fields, while others were getting the rest ready. By the end of the month, thanks to the favorable rains that had fallen, the wheat looked very promising, showing every indication of a bountiful harvest. At Toongabbie, the wheat seemed resistant to any issues except fire, although some precautions had been wisely and timely taken against that risk. From this location, along with contributions from the settlers, a sufficient amount of corn was expected to be stored in the public granaries to supply everyone for a year, assuming those who were looking so far ahead and considered a lot of corn that wasn’t ripe yet weren't being overly optimistic about their expectations.

CHAPTER XXIII

The Boddingtons and Sugar Cane set sail
A mill built
Thefts occurred
Convicts freed
Two people struck by lightning
The Fairy arrives
Farms sold
Public infrastructure
The Francis returns from New Zealand
The Fairy departs
Rations changed
Transactions
Harvest starts
Criminal Court held
A convict executed
Supplies
Mill at Parramatta
Christmas Day
Indigenous people
Convicts
Boats
Land grants
Settlers
Public infrastructure
Costs to be calculated
Deaths in 1793
Prices of grain, livestock, and labor

October.] The Boddingtons and Sugar Cane being both bound for the same port in India (Bengal) the masters agreed to proceed together; and on the 13th, the Sugar Cane having set up her rigging, and hurried through such refitting as was indispensably necessary, both ships left the harbour with a fair wind, purposing to follow in the Atlantic's track. The master of the Boddingtons was furnished by us with a copy of a chart made on board the Pitt Indiaman, and brought hither by the Britannia, of a passage or channel found by that ship in the land named by Lieutenant Shortland New Georgia; which channel was placed in the latitude of 8 degrees 30 minutes S and in the longitude of 158 degrees 30 minutes E and named 'Manning's Straits,' from the commander of the Pitt.

October. The Boddingtons and Sugar Cane, both heading to the same port in India (Bengal), agreed to travel together. On the 13th, the Sugar Cane finished setting up her rigging and quickly completed the necessary repairs, and both ships left the harbor with a favorable wind, planning to follow the Atlantic's route. The captain of the Boddingtons was provided by us with a copy of a chart created on board the Pitt Indiaman, which was brought here by the Britannia. This chart showed a passage or channel discovered by that ship in the area Lieutenant Shortland named New Georgia. The channel was recorded at a latitude of 8 degrees 30 minutes S and a longitude of 158 degrees 30 minutes E and was called 'Manning's Straits,' after the commander of the Pitt.

The master of the Sugar Cane, had he been left to sail alone, determined to have tried the passage to India by the way of the South Cape of this country, instead of proceeding to the northward, and seemed not to have any doubt of meeting with favourable winds after rounding the cape. By their proceeding together, however, it remained yet to be determined, whether a passage to India round the South Cape of this country was practicable, and whether it would be a safer and a shorter route than one through Endeavour or Torres Strait, the practicability of which was likewise undetermined as to any knowledge which was had of it in this colony.

The captain of the Sugar Cane, if he had been sailing alone, planned to try the route to India by way of the South Cape of this country, instead of heading north, and seemed confident he would encounter favorable winds after rounding the cape. However, since they were traveling together, it was still unclear whether a passage to India around the South Cape was feasible, and whether it would be a safer and quicker route than going through Endeavour or Torres Strait, the feasibility of which was also unknown in this colony.

Seven persons whose terms of transportation had expired, were permitted to quit the colony in these ships, and the master of the Sugar Cane had shipped Benjamin Williams, the last of the Kitty's people who remained undisposed of. One free woman, the wife of a convict, took her passage in the Sugar Cane.

Seven people whose transportation terms had ended were allowed to leave the colony on these ships, and the captain of the Sugar Cane had taken on Benjamin Williams, the last of the Kitty's group who hadn't been assigned elsewhere. One free woman, the wife of a convict, also booked her passage on the Sugar Cane.

Notwithstanding the facility with which passages from this place were procured (very little more being required by the masters than permission to receive them, and that the parties should find their own provisions) it was found after the departure of these ships that some convicts had, by being secreted on board, made their escape from the colony; and two men, whose terms as convicts had expired, were brought up from the Sugar Cane the day she sailed, having got on board without permission; for which the lieutenant-governor directed them to be punished with fifty lashes each, and sent up to Toongabbie.

Despite the ease with which passages from this place were obtained (the only requirements from the masters were permission to take them, and that the individuals should find their own supplies), it was discovered after these ships left that some convicts had secretly boarded and escaped from the colony; and two men, whose sentences as convicts had ended, were brought up from the Sugar Cane on the day she sailed, having gotten on board without permission; for which the lieutenant-governor ordered them to be punished with fifty lashes each and sent to Toongabbie.

Early in the month an alteration took place in the weekly ration, the four pounds of wheat served to the convicts were discontinued, and a substitution of one pint of rice, and two pints of gram (an East India grain resembling dholl) took place. The serving of wheat was discontinued for the purpose of issuing it as flour; to accomplish which a mill had been constructed by a convict of the name of James Wilkinson, who came to this country in the Neptune. His abilities as a millwright had hitherto lain dormant, and perhaps would longer have continued so, had they not been called forth by a desire of placing himself in competition with Thorpe the millwright sent out by government.

Early in the month, there was a change in the weekly ration. The four pounds of wheat given to the convicts were replaced with one pint of rice and two pints of gram (a type of East Indian grain like dholl). The wheat was removed from the ration to be processed into flour; for this purpose, a mill had been built by a convict named James Wilkinson, who arrived in this country on the Neptune. His skills as a millwright had previously been unutilized, and they might have stayed that way if not for his ambition to compete with Thorpe, the millwright sent by the government.

His machine was a walking mill, the principal wheel of which was fifteen feet in diameter, and was worked by two men; while this wheel was performing one revolution, the mill-stones performed twenty. As it was in opposition to the public millwright that he undertook to construct this mill, he of course derived no assistance whatever from Thorpe's knowledge of the business, and had to contend not only with his opinion, but the opinion of such as he could prejudice against him. The heavy part of the work, cutting and bringing in the timber, and afterwards preparing it, was performed by his fellow-prisoners, who gave him their labour voluntarily. He was three months and five days from taking it in hand to his offering it for the first trial. On this trial it was found defective in some of the machinery, which was all constructed of the timber of the country, and not properly seasoned. Its effects in grinding were various; at first it would grind no more than two bushels an hour; with some alteration, it ground more, and did for some time complete four bushels; it afterwards ground less, and at the end of the month produced not more than one bushel. Had the whole of the machinery been upon a larger scale, there was reason to suppose it would have answered every expectation of the most interested. The constructor, however, had a great deal of merit, and perceiving himself what the defects were in this, he undertook to make another upon a larger scale at Sydney, and on an improved plan. For this purpose, all the artificers and a gang of convicts were brought down from Parramatta, and were first employed in forming a timber-yard at Petersham, two hundred feet square.

His machine was a walking mill, with a main wheel that was fifteen feet in diameter and operated by two men; while this wheel completed one full turn, the millstones made twenty turns. Since he was going up against the local millwright to build this mill, he obviously got no help from Thorpe's expertise and had to deal not just with his opinions but also with those of others he could sway against him. The more labor-intensive tasks, like cutting and bringing in the timber and then preparing it, were done by his fellow prisoners, who volunteered their work. It took him three months and five days from starting the project to offering it for its first trial. During this trial, some of the machinery was found to be defective, as it was all made from local timber that wasn't properly seasoned. The grinding results varied; at first, it ground only two bushels an hour, but after some adjustments, it managed to produce four bushels for a while; eventually, it ground less and by the end of the month, it produced only one bushel. If all the machinery had been built on a larger scale, it likely would have met the highest expectations. Nonetheless, the builder showed significant skill and, recognizing the flaws, decided to create another one on a larger scale in Sydney with an improved design. To do this, all the craftsmen and a group of convicts were brought in from Parramatta and were initially tasked with setting up a timber yard at Petersham, measuring two hundred feet square.

At that place, a small district in the neighbourhood of Sydney so named by the lieutenant-governor, nine huts for labouring convicts were built, and sixty acres of government ground cleared of timber, twenty of which were sown with Indian corn. This was the only addition made to the public ground this season; and the sole difference that was observable in the progress of our cultivation consisted in sowing this year with wheat a large portion of that ground which last year grew Indian corn. The weather throughout the month continued extremely favourable for wheat.

At that location, a small area near Sydney named by the lieutenant-governor, nine huts for working convicts were built, and sixty acres of government land were cleared of trees, with twenty acres planted with corn. This was the only addition made to the public land this season; the only noticeable change in our farming was that a large part of the land that grew corn last year was sown with wheat this year. The weather throughout the month remained very favorable for wheat.

The number of convicts which it was intended to receive for the present into the New South Wales corps being determined, a warrant of emancipation passed the seal of the territory, giving conditional freedom to twenty three persons of that description, seven of whom were transported for life, and three had between six and nine years to serve, having been sent out for fourteen. The condition of the pardon was, their continuing to serve in the corps into which they had enlisted until they should be regularly discharged therefrom.

The number of convicts intended to be received into the New South Wales corps was decided, and a warrant of emancipation was issued, granting conditional freedom to twenty-three people of that description. Seven of them were sentenced to life, and three had between six and nine years left to serve, having initially been sent out for fourteen. The condition of their pardon was that they continue to serve in the corps they had joined until they were officially discharged.

Several instances of irregularity and villainy among the convicts occurred during this month. From Parramatta, information was received, that in the night of the 15th four people broke into the house of John Randall, a settler, where with large bludgeons they had beaten and nearly murdered two men who lived with him. The hands and faces of these miscreants were blackened; and it was observed, that they did not speak during the time they were in the hut. It was supposed, that they were some of the new-comers, and meant to rob the house; and this they would have effected, but for the activity of the two men whom they attacked, and for the resistance which they met with from them. At this time seven of the male convicts lately arrived from Ireland, with one woman, had absconded into the woods. Some of these people were afterwards brought in to Parramatta, where they confessed that they had planned the robbing of the millhouse, the governor's, and other houses; and that they were to be visited from time to time in their places of concealment by others of their associates who were to reside in the town, and to supply them with provisions, and such occasional information as might appear to be necessary to their safety. They also acknowledged that the assault at Randall's hut was committed by them and their companions.

Several incidents of irregular behavior and wrongdoing among the convicts took place this month. From Parramatta, it was reported that on the night of the 15th, four individuals broke into the home of John Randall, a settler, and with large clubs, they beat and almost killed two men living with him. The hands and faces of these criminals were blackened, and it was noted that they didn’t speak while they were in the hut. It was believed that they were some of the newcomers who intended to rob the house; they likely would have succeeded if not for the quick actions of the two men they attacked and the resistance they put up. At this time, seven male convicts who had recently arrived from Ireland, along with one woman, had escaped into the woods. Some of these individuals were later brought back to Parramatta, where they admitted that they had planned to rob the millhouse, the governor's residence, and other homes; they intended to be visited periodically in their hiding spots by other associates living in the town, who would supply them with food and any information they needed for their safety. They also confessed that the assault at Randall's hut was carried out by them and their accomplices.

About the same time the house of Mr. Atkins at Parramatta was broken into, and a large quantity of provisions, and a cask of wine, removed from his store-room to the garden fence, where they left them on being discovered and pursued. They, however, got clear off, though without their booty.

Around the same time, Mr. Atkins' house in Parramatta was broken into, and a large amount of supplies and a cask of wine were taken from his storage room to the garden fence, where they were left when discovered and chased. However, they managed to get away, though not with their loot.

At Sydney, in the night of the 26th, a box belonging to John Sparrow (a convict) was broke open, and three watches stolen out, one of which with the seals had cost thirty-two guineas, and belonged to an officer. This theft was committed at the hospital, where Sparrow was at the time a patient, although able to work occasionally at his business; and being a young man of abilities as a watchmaker, and of good character, was employed by most of the gentlemen of the settlement. Suspicion fell upon a notorious thief who was in the same ward, and who had some time before proposed to another man to take the box. On his examination he accused two others of the theft, but with such equivocation in his tale as clearly proved the falsehood of it. As there was no evidence against him, except the proposal just mentioned, he was discharged, and during the month nothing was heard of the watches. An old man belonging to the hospital was robbed at the same time of eight guineas and some dollars, which he had got together for the purpose of paying for his passage and provisions in any ship that would take him home.

At Sydney, on the night of the 26th, a box belonging to John Sparrow (a convict) was broken into, and three watches were stolen, one of which, including the seals, had cost thirty-two guineas and belonged to an officer. This theft happened at the hospital, where Sparrow was a patient at the time, although he could occasionally work at his trade. A young man with skills as a watchmaker and a good reputation, he was employed by most of the gentlemen in the settlement. Suspicion fell on a notorious thief who was in the same ward and had previously suggested to another man that they steal the box. During his questioning, he accused two others of the theft, but his story was so inconsistent that it clearly proved his dishonesty. Since there was no evidence against him apart from the earlier proposal, he was released, and no information about the watches surfaced during that month. An elderly man from the hospital was also robbed at the same time of eight guineas and some dollars he had saved to pay for his passage and provisions on any ship that would take him home.

During a storm of rain and thunder which happened in the afternoon of Saturday the 26th, two convict lads Dennis Reardon and William Meredith, who were employed in cutting wood just by the town when the rain commenced, ran to a tree for shelter, where they were found the next morning lying dead, together with a dog which followed them. There was no doubt that the shelter which they sought had proved their destruction, having been struck dead by lightning, one or two flashes of which had been observed to be very vivid and near. One of them, when he received the stroke, had his hands in his bosom; the hands of the other were across his breast, and he seemed to have had something in them. The pupils of their eyes were considerably dilated, and the tongue of each, as well as that of the dog, was forced out between the teeth. Their faces were livid, and the same appearance was visible on several parts of their bodies. The tree at the foot of which they were found was barked at the top, and some of its branches torn off. In the evening they were decently buried in one grave, to which they were attended by many of their fellow-prisoners. Mr. Johnson, to a discourse which he afterwards preached on the subject, prefixed as a text these words from the first book of Samuel, chap xx verse 3. 'There is but a step between me and death.'

During a storm with rain and thunder on the afternoon of Saturday, the 26th, two young convicts, Dennis Reardon and William Meredith, who were cutting wood near town when the rain started, ran to a tree for shelter. They were found the next morning lying dead, alongside a dog that had followed them. It was clear that the shelter they sought led to their demise, as they had been struck dead by lightning. One or two flashes had been observed to be very bright and close by. One of them had his hands tucked into his shirt when he was struck; the other had his hands crossed over his chest and seemed to be holding something. The pupils of their eyes were greatly dilated, and the tongues of both of them, as well as that of the dog, were protruding between their teeth. Their faces were pale, and similar discoloration was noticeable on various parts of their bodies. The tree where they were found had its bark stripped at the top, and some branches were broken off. In the evening, they were buried respectfully in a single grave, attended by many of their fellow prisoners. Mr. Johnson began a sermon on the topic with these words from the first book of Samuel, chapter 20, verse 3: "There is but a step between me and death."

This was the first accident of the kind that, to our knowledge, had occurred in the colony, though lightning more vivid and alarming had often been seen in storms of longer duration.

This was the first accident of its kind that we knew of in the colony, although more intense and shocking lightning had often been seen during longer storms.

While every one was expecting our colonial vessel, the Francis, from New Zealand. the signal for a sail was made on the 29th; and shortly after the Fairy, an American snow, anchored in the cove from Boston in New England, and last from the island of St. Paul, whence she had a passage of only four weeks. The master, Mr. Rogers, touched at False Bay; but from there not having been any recent arrivals from Europe, he procured no other intelligence at that port, than what we had already received. At the island of St. Paul he found five seamen who had been left there from a ship two years before, and who had procured several thousand seal-skins. They informed him, that Lord Macartney in his Majesty's ship the Lion, and the Hindostan East-Indiaman, had touched there in their way to China, and Mr. Rogers expected to have heard that his lordship had visited this settlement.

While everyone was waiting for our colonial ship, the Francis, to arrive from New Zealand, a signal for a sail was raised on the 29th. Shortly after, the Fairy, an American snow from Boston in New England and recently from the island of St. Paul, anchored in the cove after just four weeks of travel. The captain, Mr. Rogers, stopped at False Bay; however, since there hadn’t been any recent arrivals from Europe, he didn’t get any new information at that port besides what we already knew. At the island of St. Paul, he found five sailors who had been left there by a ship two years earlier, and they had collected several thousand seal skins. They told him that Lord Macartney, aboard His Majesty's ship the Lion, along with the Hindostan East-Indiaman, had also stopped there on their way to China, and Mr. Rogers was hoping to hear that his lordship had visited this settlement.

The Fairy was to proceed from this place to the north-west coast of America, where the master hoped to arrive the first for the fur market. Thence he was to go to China with his skins, and from China back to St. Paul, where he had left a mate and two sailors. Their success was to regulate his future voyages.

The Fairy was set to head from this spot to the northwest coast of America, where the captain hoped to be the first to arrive for the fur market. After that, he planned to travel to China with his pelts, and then return to St. Paul, where he had left a partner and two crew members. Their success would determine his future trips.

Mr. Rogers expressed a surprise that we had not any small craft on the coast, as he had observed a plentiful harvest of seals as he came along. He came in here merely to refresh, not having any thing on board for sale, his cargo consisting wholly of articles of traffic for the north-west coast of America.

Mr. Rogers was surprised that we didn't have any small boats on the coast since he had seen a lot of seals while passing by. He stopped here just to take a break, not having anything on board to sell; his cargo was entirely made up of goods meant for trade on the northwest coast of America.

Charles Williams, the settler so often mentioned in this narrative, wearied of being in a state of independence, sold his farm with the house, crop, and stock, for something less than one hundred pounds, to an officer of the New South Wales corps, Lieutenant Cummings, to whose allotment of twenty-five acres Williams's ground was contiguous. James Ruse also, the owner of Experiment farm, anxious to return to England, and disappointed in his present crop, which he had sown too late, sold his estate with the house and some stock (four goats and three sheep) for forty pounds. Both these people had to seek employment until they could get away; and Williams was condemned to work as a hireling upon the ground of which he had been the master. But he was a stranger to the feelings which would have rendered this circumstance disagreeable to him.

Charles Williams, the settler often mentioned in this story, grew tired of being independent, so he sold his farm, including the house, crops, and livestock, for just under one hundred pounds to Lieutenant Cummings, an officer from the New South Wales corps, whose twenty-five-acre plot was next to Williams's land. James Ruse, the owner of Experiment farm, eager to return to England and disappointed with his current crop, which he had sown too late, sold his estate, including the house and some livestock (four goats and three sheep) for forty pounds. Both had to seek jobs until they could leave; Williams had to work as a laborer on the land he once owned. But he didn’t feel the discomfort that might have made this situation bothersome to him.

The allotment of thirty acres, late in the possession of James Richards, a settler at the Ponds, deceased, was put into the occupation of a private soldier of the New South Wales corps; and a grant of thirty acres at the Eastern Farms was purchased for as many pounds by another soldier.

The thirty-acre allotment, previously owned by James Richards, a deceased settler at the Ponds, was given to a private soldier of the New South Wales corps. Additionally, another soldier bought a thirty-acre grant at the Eastern Farms for the same amount in pounds.

The greatest inconvenience attending this transfer of landed property was the return of such a miscreant as Williams, and others of his description, to England, to be let loose again upon the public. The land itself came into the possession of people who were interested in making the most of it, and who would be more studious to raise plentiful crops for market.

The biggest hassle with this land transfer was the return of a troublemaker like Williams and others like him to England, where they could be free again to cause issues for the public. The land itself ended up in the hands of people who were eager to maximize its potential and who would be more focused on producing abundant crops for the market.

Building and covering the new barrack, and bringing in timber for the new mill-house, which was not to be built of brick, formed the principal labour of this month at Sydney. The shipwrights were employed in putting up the frame of a long-boat purchased of the master of the Britannia, and repairing the hoy, which had been lying for some months useless for want of repairs, having been much injured by the destructive worm that was found in the waters of this cove.

Building and covering the new barrack and bringing in timber for the new mill house, which wasn’t going to be made of brick, was the main work this month in Sydney. The shipwrights were busy constructing the frame of a longboat they bought from the captain of the Britannia and fixing the hoy, which had been sitting idle for several months due to needed repairs because it was badly damaged by the destructive worm found in the waters of this cove.

At the other settlements the convicts were employed in planting the Indian corn. About four hundred and twenty acres were planted with that article for this season's crop.

At the other settlements, the convicts were working on planting corn. About four hundred and twenty acres were planted with it for this season's crop.

November.] In the night of Thursday the 7th of November, the Francis schooner anchored in the cove from Dusky Bay in New Zealand; her long absence from this place (nearly nine weeks) having been occasioned by meeting with contrary and heavy gales of wind. The alteration which had been made in this vessel by rigging her as a schooner instead of a sloop, for which she was built, was found to have materially affected her sailing; for a schooner she was too short, and, for want of proper sail, she did not work well. Four times she was blown off the coast of New Zealand, the Britannia having anchored in Dusky Bay sixteen days before the Francis.

November.] On the night of Thursday, November 7th, the Francis schooner anchored in the cove at Dusky Bay in New Zealand. Its long absence from this spot (nearly nine weeks) was due to facing strong, unfavorable winds. The changes made to the vessel, rigging it as a schooner instead of a sloop, for which it was originally built, significantly affected its sailing performance; as a schooner, it was too short, and due to inadequate sails, it didn’t maneuver well. It was blown off the coast of New Zealand four times, with the Britannia having anchored in Dusky Bay sixteen days earlier than the Francis.

Mr. Raven found in health and safety all the people whom he had left there. They had procured him only four thousand five hundred seal-skins, having been principally occupied in constructing a vessel to serve them in the event of any accident happening to the Britannia. This they had nearly completed when Mr. Raven arrived. She was calculated to measure about sixty-five tons, and was chiefly built of the spruce fir, which Mr. Raven stated to be the fittest wood he had observed there for ship-building, and which might be procured in any quantity or of any size. The carpenter of the Britannia, an ingenious man, and master of his profession, compared it to English oak for durability and strength.

Mr. Raven found all the people he had left in health and safety. They had only managed to get him four thousand five hundred seal skins because they were mostly busy building a vessel to use in case something happened to the Britannia. They were almost finished with it when Mr. Raven arrived. It was designed to be about sixty-five tons and was mainly constructed from spruce fir, which Mr. Raven said was the best wood he had seen there for shipbuilding, available in any quantity or size. The carpenter of the Britannia, a skilled and clever man, compared it to English oak for its durability and strength.

The natives had never molested the Britannia's people: indeed they seemed rather to abhor them; for if, by chance, in their excursions, which were but very few, they visited and left any thing in a hut, they were sure, on their next visit, to find the hut pulled down, and their present remaining where it had been left. Some few articles which Mr. Raven had himself placed in a hut, when he touched there to establish his little fishery, were found three months after by his people in the same spot.

The locals had never bothered the people of the Britannia: in fact, they appeared to dislike them; because if, by chance, during their rare outings, they left anything in a hut, they could be sure that on their next visit, the hut would be torn down, while their belongings remained untouched. A few items that Mr. Raven had personally put in a hut when he stopped by to set up his small fishery were found three months later by his crew in the same place.

Their weather had been very bad; severe gales of wind from the north-west and heavy rains often impeding their fishery and other labour. A shock of an earthquake too had been felt. They had an abundance of fresh provisions, ducks, wood-hens, and several other fowl; and they caught large quantities of fish. The soil, to a great depth, appeared to be composed of decayed vegetable substances.

Their weather had been really bad; strong winds from the northwest and heavy rain often disrupted their fishing and other work. They also felt a shake from an earthquake. They had plenty of fresh food, including ducks, wood-hens, and several other types of birds; and they caught a lot of fish. The soil, deep down, seemed to be made up of decomposed plant matter.

From Mr. Raven, who had waited some days for the appearance of the Francis, the master received such assistance as he stood in need of; and on the 20th of October she sailed from Dusky Bay, in company with the Britannia, with whom she parted immediately, leaving her to pursue her voyage to Bengal.

From Mr. Raven, who had waited several days for the arrival of the Francis, the captain got the help he needed; and on October 20th, she set sail from Dusky Bay, alongside the Britannia, with whom she separated right away, allowing her to continue her journey to Bengal.

Nothing appeared by this information from Dusky Bay, that held out encouragement to us to make any use of that part of New Zealand. So little was said of the soil, or face of the country, that no judgment could be formed of any advantages which might be expected from attempting to cultivate it; a seal fishery there was not an object with us at present, and, beside, it did not seem to promise much. The time, however, that the schooner was absent was not wholly misapplied; as we had the satisfaction of learning the event of a rather uncommon speculation, that of leaving twelve people for ten months on so populous an island, the inhabitants whereof were known to be savages, fierce and warlike. We certainly may suppose that these people were unacquainted with the circumstance of there being any strangers near them; and that consequently they had not had any communication with the few miserable beings who were occasionally seen in the coves of Dusky Bay.

Nothing from the information we received about Dusky Bay gave us any reason to consider that part of New Zealand useful. There was so little mention of the soil or the landscape that we couldn't form any judgment on the potential benefits of trying to farm there. A seal fishery wasn't something we were focused on right now, and besides, it didn't look promising. However, the time the schooner was gone wasn’t entirely wasted; we were satisfied to find out the outcome of a rather unusual venture—leaving twelve people on such a populous island for ten months, knowing that the locals were fierce and warlike. We can assume that these people were unaware of any strangers being nearby and, as a result, hadn't had any contact with the few unfortunate individuals occasionally spotted in the coves of Dusky Bay.

A few days after the arrival of the Francis, Mr. Rogers sailed for China, taking with him two women and three men who had received permission to quit the colony. On board of the Fairy was found a convict, John Crow, who for some offence had been confined in the military guardhouse at Parramatta, whence he found means to make his escape, and reached Sydney in time to swim on board the American. On being brought on shore he received a slight punishment, and was confined in the black hole at the guardhouse at Sydney, out of which he escaped a night or two after, by untiling a part of the roof. After this he was not heard of, till the watch apprehended him at Parramatta, where he had broken into two houses, which he had plundered, and was caught with the property upon him.

A few days after the arrival of the Francis, Mr. Rogers sailed for China, taking with him two women and three men who had gotten permission to leave the colony. On board the Fairy, they found a convict, John Crow, who had been held in the military guardhouse at Parramatta for some offense. He managed to escape and made it to Sydney just in time to swim onto the American ship. Once brought ashore, he received a minor punishment and was locked up in the black hole at the Sydney guardhouse, from which he escaped a night or two later by removing part of the roof. After that, he was not heard from until the watch caught him at Parramatta, where he had broken into two houses, stolen items, and was caught with the stolen goods on him.

The frequency of enormous offences had rendered it necessary to inflict a punishment that should be more likely to check the commission of crimes than mere flagellation at the back of the guardhouse, or being sent to Toongabbie. Crow, therefore, was lodged in the custody of the civil power, and ordered for trial by the court of criminal judicature.

The frequency of serious crimes made it necessary to impose a punishment that would be more effective in preventing crime than simple beatings in the guardhouse or being sent to Toongabbie. Therefore, Crow was placed in the custody of civil authorities and scheduled for trial by the criminal court.

During the time the Fairy lay at anchor in this cove, a sergeant and three privates of the New South Wales corps were sent and remained on board, for the purpose of preventing all improper visitations from the shore, and inspecting whatever might be either received into or sent from the ship in a suspicious manner: a regulation from which the master professed to have found essential service, as he thereby kept his decks free from idle or bad people, and his seamen went on unmolested with the duty of the vessel.

During the time the Fairy was anchored in this cove, a sergeant and three privates from the New South Wales corps were sent to stay on board to prevent any inappropriate visits from the shore and to inspect anything that was received or sent from the ship in a suspicious way. The captain claimed this regulation was crucial because it kept his decks clear of idle or undesirable people, allowing his crew to carry out their duties without interruption.

On Saturday the 23rd, the flour and rice in store being nearly expended, the ration was altered to the following proportions of those articles, viz:

On Saturday the 23rd, since the flour and rice in stock were almost used up, the ration was changed to the following proportions of those items, viz:

To the officers, civil and military, soldiers, overseers, and the settlers from free people, were served, of biscuit or flour 2 pounds; wheat 2 pounds; Indian corn 5 pounds; peas 3 pints.

To the officers, both civil and military, soldiers, overseers, and the settlers from free people, were provided with 2 pounds of biscuit or flour; 2 pounds of wheat; 5 pounds of Indian corn; and 3 pints of peas.

To the male convicts were served, women and children receiving in the proportions always observed, (of biscuit or flour, none, and for the first time since the establishment of the colony) wheat 3 pounds; Indian corn 5 pounds; paddy 2 pints; gram 2 pints.

To the male prisoners, the food was served, with women and children receiving their portions as usual: no biscuit or flour, and for the first time since the colony was established, 3 pounds of wheat; 5 pounds of corn; 2 pints of rice; and 2 pints of gram.

This was universally felt as the worst ration that had ever been served from his Majesty's stores; and by the labouring convict particularly so, as no one article of grain was so prepared for him as to be immediately made use of. The quantity that was now to be ground, and the numbers who brought grain to the mill, kept it employed all the night as well as the day; and as, from the scarcity of mills, every man was compelled to wait for his turn, the day had broke, and the drum beat for labour, before many who went into the mill house at night had been able to get their corn ground. The consequence was, that many, not being able to wait, consumed their allowance unprepared. By the next Saturday, a quantity of wheat sufficient for one serving having been passed through the large mill at Parramatta, the convicts received their ration of that article ground coarse.

This was widely regarded as the worst ration ever provided from the King’s stores, especially by the laboring convicts, as there wasn’t a single type of grain that was ready for immediate use. The amount that needed to be ground and the number of people bringing grain to the mill kept it running all night and day. Because there were so few mills, everyone had to wait their turn, and day had broken, with the drum sounding for work, before many who entered the mill at night could get their corn ground. As a result, many, unable to wait, consumed their rations unprepared. By the following Saturday, enough wheat for one serving had been processed at the large mill in Parramatta, and the convicts received their ration of that grain ground coarse.

The lumber yard near Sydney being completed, the convict millwright Wilkinson was preparing his new mill with as much expedition as he could use; and John Baughan, an ingenious man, formerly a convict, had undertaken to build another mill upon a construction somewhat different from that of Wilkinson's, in which he was assisted by some artificers of the regiment. Both these mills were to be erected on the open spot of ground formerly used as a parade by the marine battalion.

The lumber yard near Sydney was being finished, and the convict millwright Wilkinson was getting his new mill ready as quickly as he could; meanwhile, John Baughan, a clever man and former convict, had taken on the task of building another mill with a design that was a bit different from Wilkinson's. He was getting help from some skilled workers in the regiment. Both mills were going to be set up in the open area that was previously used as a parade ground by the marine battalion.

Short as was the quantity of flour in store, we did not, however, despair of being able to issue some meal of this season's growth before it could be entirely expended. About the middle of the month, the wheat that was sown in April last, about ninety acres, being perfectly ripe, the harvest commenced, and from that quantity of ground it was calculated that upwards of twenty-two bushels an acre would be received. Most of the settlers had also begun to reap; and they, as well as others who had grown that grain, were informed, that 'Wheat properly dried and cleaned would be received at Sydney by the commissary at ten shillings the bushel; but that none could be purchased from any other persons than those who had grown it on their own farms; neither could any be taken into the stores at Parramatta.'

Shortly after realizing how little flour we had left, we didn’t lose hope of getting some fresh grain from this season before it all ran out. Around the middle of the month, the wheat sown last April on about ninety acres was fully ripe, and we started the harvest. From that area, we estimated that we would harvest more than twenty-two bushels per acre. Most of the settlers had also started reaping, and they, along with others who had grown that grain, were told that 'Wheat that’s properly dried and cleaned would be accepted in Sydney by the commissary for ten shillings per bushel; but only those who had grown it on their own farms could sell it; and none could be taken into the stores at Parramatta.'

The precaution of receiving wheat only from those persons who had raised it on their own farms was intended to prevent the petty and rascally traffic which would otherwise have been carried on between free people off the stores and persons who might employ them to sell the fruits of their depredations on the public and other grounds.

The rule of accepting wheat only from those who grew it on their own farms was meant to stop the small-time, shady trade that would have taken place between private individuals and those who might hire them to sell the stolen goods from public and other lands.

December.] Early in this month a criminal court was assembled, at which Charles Williams, a boy of fourteen years of age, and John Bevan, a notorious offender, though also very young, were tried for breaking into a house at Toongabbie; but, for want of evidence, were acquitted. John Crow was also tried for the burglary in the hut at Parramatta, out of which he had stolen a quantity of wearing apparel and provisions; and, being clearly convicted, he received sentence of death.

December.] Early this month, a criminal court was convened, where fourteen-year-old Charles Williams and John Bevan, a well-known young offender, were tried for breaking into a house in Toongabbie. However, due to lack of evidence, they were acquitted. John Crow was also tried for the burglary at the hut in Parramatta, from which he stole a quantity of clothes and food, and was clearly convicted, receiving a death sentence.

An idea very generally prevailed among the ignorant part of the convicts, that the lieutenant-governor was not authorised to cause a sentence of death to be carried into execution, a notion that was in their minds confirmed by the mercy which he had extended to Samuel Wright, who was pardoned by him in July. It became, therefore, absolutely necessary, for their own sakes, to let them see that he was not only possessed of the power, but that he would also exercise it. On this account the prisoner, after petitioning more than once for a respite, which he received, was executed on Tuesday the 10th, eight days after his trial. There did not exist in the colony at this time a fitter object for example than John Crow. Unfortunately, the poor wretch to his last moment cherished the idea that he should not suffer; and consequently could have been but ill prepared for the change he was about to experience. He had endeavoured to effect his escape by jumping down a privy a few hours before his execution; and it was afterwards found, that he had with much ingenuity removed some bricks in the wall of the hole in which he was confined, whence, had he obtained the respite of another day, he would easily have escaped.

A common belief among the less educated convicts was that the lieutenant-governor did not have the authority to carry out a death sentence. This idea was reinforced in their minds by the mercy shown to Samuel Wright, who was pardoned by him in July. It became crucial for their own good to demonstrate that he not only had the power to execute the sentence but would also use it. For this reason, the prisoner, who had petitioned multiple times for a delay, was executed on Tuesday the 10th, eight days after his trial. At that time, there was no better example in the colony than John Crow. Unfortunately, the poor man clung to the hope that he would not face death until the very end, which left him poorly prepared for the drastic change he was about to face. He had tried to escape by jumping down a toilet a few hours before his execution; it was later discovered that he had cleverly removed some bricks from the wall of his cell, and had he received another day of respite, he might have easily escaped.

Independent of the consideration that this man had long been a proper object of severe punishment, to have pardoned him (even on any condition) would only have tended to strengthen the supposition that the lieutenant-governor had not the power of life and death; and many daring burglaries and other enormities would have followed. Crow pretended that he was in the secret respecting the watches which were stolen from the hospital in October last; but all that he knew amounted to nothing that could lead to a discovery either of them or of the thief. He did not appear to be at all commiserated or regretted by any of his fellow prisoners; a certain proof of the absence of every good quality in his character.

Regardless of the fact that this man had long been deserving of harsh punishment, pardoning him (even under any conditions) would have only reinforced the idea that the lieutenant-governor lacked the authority over life and death; and many bold robberies and other serious crimes would have followed. Crow claimed that he was aware of the details regarding the watches that were stolen from the hospital last October; however, all he knew amounted to nothing that could help identify either the watches or the thief. He didn't seem to be missed or regretted by any of his fellow prisoners, which was clear evidence of the absence of any good qualities in his character.

In the night of the 6th, during a violent storm of rain and thunder, a long-boat, which had arrived in the evening from Parramatta with grain for the next day's serving, and was then lying at the wharf on the west side under the care of a sentinel, filled with the quantity of water which ran from the wharf, and sunk. By this accident two hundred and eighty bushels of Indian corn in cob, and a few bushels of wheaten meal, were totally lost. The natives who could dive availed themselves of the circumstance, and recovered a great quantity of the corn, of which they were very fond. The boats were not injured.

On the night of the 6th, during a fierce storm with heavy rain and thunder, a longboat that had arrived in the evening from Parramatta with grain for the next day's serving was docked at the wharf on the west side, under the watch of a guard. It took on water from the wharf and sank. As a result, two hundred and eighty bushels of Indian corn on the cob, along with a few bushels of wheat flour, were completely lost. The locals who could dive took advantage of the situation and recovered a significant amount of the corn, which they really liked. The boats were not damaged.

Sudden storms of this kind were frequent; and gusts of wind have been so sudden and violent, that ships, loosely moored, have driven at their anchors in the cove.

Sudden storms like this were common, and gusts of wind could be so abrupt and fierce that ships, not securely moored, were pushed wildly at their anchors in the cove.

On Saturday the 7th a change took place in the ration; this was, the discontinuing of the three pints of peas which were served to the civil and military, and the three pints of gram which were served to the convicts, and giving them instead an equal quantity of wheat.

On Saturday the 7th, a change occurred in the rations; specifically, the three pints of peas that were provided to civilians and military personnel, as well as the three pints of gram given to the convicts, were replaced with an equivalent amount of wheat.

Notwithstanding every supply of flour which had been purchased, or received into the store from England, it was at length entirely exhausted; the civil and military receiving the last on Monday the 9th. This total deprivation of so valuable, so essential an article in the food of man happened, fortunately, at a season when its place could in some measure be supplied immediately, the harvest having been all safely got in at Toongabbie by the beginning of this month. About the middle of it, eight hundred bushels were threshed out, and on Monday the 16th the civil and military received each seven pounds of wheat coarsely ground at the mill at Parramatta. This mill, from the brittleness of the timber with which it was constructed, was found to be unequal to the consumption of the settlements. The cogs frequently broke, and hence it was not of any very great utility. To remedy this inconvenience, a convict blacksmith undertook to produce one iron hand-mill each week, for which he was to be paid at the rate of two guineas; and by his means several mills were distributed in the settlements.

Despite the supply of flour that had been bought and received from England, it was finally completely gone, with the civil and military receiving the last of it on Monday the 9th. This total lack of such a valuable and essential food item fortunately happened at a time when it could be partly replaced, as the harvest had all been safely collected at Toongabbie by the beginning of the month. By the middle of it, eight hundred bushels were threshed out, and on Monday the 16th, the civil and military each received seven pounds of coarsely ground wheat from the mill at Parramatta. This mill, built from brittle timber, was not able to keep up with the needs of the settlements. The cogs frequently broke, making it not very useful. To solve this problem, a convict blacksmith agreed to produce one iron hand-mill each week for a pay of two guineas, and through his efforts, several mills were distributed among the settlements.

The salt meat being the next article which threatened a speedy expenditure, on Saturday the 28th one pound was taken from the weekly allowance of beef; and but a small quantity of Indian corn remaining in store, the male convicts received eight pounds of new wheat, whole; and only three pounds of Indian corn, or paddy, were served.

The salt meat was the next item that was likely to run out quickly, so on Saturday the 28th, one pound was taken from the weekly beef allowance. Since there was only a small amount of Indian corn left in stock, the male convicts were given eight pounds of whole new wheat, and only three pounds of Indian corn, or paddy, were distributed.

On Christmas day, the Reverend Mr. Johnson preached to between thirty and forty persons only, though on a provision day some four or five hundred heads were seen waiting round the storehouse doors. The evening produced a watchhouse full of prisoners; several were afterwards punished, among whom were some servants for stealing liquor from an officer.

On Christmas day, Reverend Mr. Johnson preached to only about thirty to forty people, even though on a provision day, around four or five hundred people were seen waiting outside the storehouse. That evening, a watchhouse was filled with prisoners; several were later punished, including some servants for stealing liquor from an officer.

The passion for liquor was so predominant among the people, that it operated like a mania, there being nothing which they would not risk to obtain it: and while spirits were to be had, those who did any extra labour refused to be paid in money, or any other article than spirits, which were now, from their scarcity, sold at six shillings per bottle. Webb, the settler near Parramatta, having procured a small still from England, found it more advantageous to draw an ardent diabolical spirit from his wheat, than to send it to the store and receive ten shillings per bushel from the commissary. From one bushel of wheat he obtained nearly five quarts of spirit, which he sold or paid in exchange for labour at five and six shillings per quart.

The obsession with alcohol was so overwhelming among the people that it felt like a craze; they would risk anything to get it. While spirits were available, those willing to work extra hours preferred to be paid in alcohol rather than money or any other goods. Since spirits had become rare, they were now selling for six shillings per bottle. Webb, the settler near Parramatta, managed to get a small still from England and found it more profitable to distill a strong spirit from his wheat than to sell it to the store for ten shillings per bushel from the commissary. From one bushel of wheat, he produced almost five quarts of spirit, which he either sold or used to pay for labor at five and six shillings per quart.

McDonald, a settler at the Field of Mars, made a different and a better use of the produce of his farm. Having a mill, he ground and dressed his wheat, and sold it to a baker at Sydney at fourpence per pound, procuring forty-four pounds of good flour from a bushel of wheat, which was taken at fifty-nine pounds. This person also killed a wether sheep (the produce of what had been given to him by Governor Phillip) at Christmas, and sold it at two shillings per pound, each quarter weighing about fifteen pounds.

McDonald, a settler at the Field of Mars, made a different and better use of his farm's produce. Having a mill, he ground and processed his wheat, selling it to a baker in Sydney for four pence per pound, getting forty-four pounds of quality flour from a bushel of wheat that weighed fifty-nine pounds. He also butchered a wether sheep (the result of what had been given to him by Governor Phillip) at Christmas and sold it for two shillings per pound, with each quarter weighing about fifteen pounds.

The town of Sydney had this year increased considerably; not fewer than one hundred and sixty huts, beside five barracks, having been added since the departure of Governor Phillip. Some of these huts were large, and to each of them upwards of fourteen hundred bricks were allowed for a chimney and floor. These huts extended nearly to the brickfields, whence others were building to meet them, and thus to unite that district with the town.

The town of Sydney had grown significantly this year; not fewer than one hundred and sixty huts, along with five barracks, were added since Governor Phillip left. Some of these huts were quite large, and each was granted over fourteen hundred bricks for a chimney and floor. These huts stretched almost to the brickfields, where more were being built to connect that area with the town.

About the latter end of the month a large party of the natives attacked some settlers who were returning from Parramatta to Toongabbie, and took from them all the provisions which they had just received from the store. By flying immediately into the woods, they eluded all pursuit and search. They were of the Hunter's or Woodman's tribe, people who seldom came among us, and who consequently were little known.

About the end of the month, a big group of locals attacked some settlers who were coming back from Parramatta to Toongabbie and took all the supplies they had just received from the store. By quickly running into the woods, they got away from all pursuit and searching. They belonged to the Hunter's or Woodman's tribe, people who rarely visited us and, as a result, were not well-known.

The natives who lived about Sydney appeared to place the utmost confidence in us, choosing a clear spot between the town and the brickfield for the performance of any of their rites and ceremonies; and for three evenings the town had been amused with one of their spectacles, which might properly have been denominated a tragedy, for it was attended with a great effusion of blood. It appeared from the best account we could procure, that one or more murders having been committed in the night, the assassins, who were immediately known, were compelled, according to the custom of the country, to meet the relations of the deceased, who were to avenge their deaths by throwing spears, and drawing blood for blood. One native of the tribe of Cammerray, a very fine fellow named Carradah*, who had stabbed another in the night, but not mortally, was obliged to stand for two evenings exposed to the spears not only of the man whom he had wounded, but of several other natives. He was suffered indeed to cover himself with a bark shield, and behaved with the greatest courage and resolution. Whether his principal adversary (the wounded man) found that he possessed too much defensive skill to admit of his wounding him, or whether it was a necessary part of his punishment, was not known with any certainty; but on the second day that Carradah had been opposed to him and his party, after having received several of their spears on his shield, without sustaining any injury, he suffered the other to pin his left arm (below the elbow) to his side, without making any resistance; prevented, perhaps, by the uplifted spears of the other natives, who could easily have destroyed him, by throwing at him in different directions. Carradah stood, for some time after this, defending himself, although wounded in the arm which held the shield, until his adversaries had not a whole spear left, and had retired to collect the fragments and piece them together. On his sitting down his left hand appeared to be very much convulsed, and Mr. White was of opinion that the spear had pierced one of the nerves. The business was resumed when they had repaired their weapons, and the fray appeared to be general, men, women, and children mingling in it, giving and receiving many severe wounds, before night put an end to their warfare.

The locals around Sydney seemed to trust us completely, selecting an open area between the town and the brickfield for their rituals and ceremonies. For three evenings, the town was entertained by one of their performances, which could rightly be called a tragedy due to the significant amount of bloodshed involved. From the best accounts we gathered, it appeared that one or more murders had occurred during the night: the killers, who were immediately identified, had to face the relatives of the victims, who sought revenge by throwing spears and seeking blood for blood. One member of the Cammerray tribe, a strong man named Carradah*, who had stabbed another person during the night but didn’t kill him, had to stand exposed to the spears of not just the man he wounded but also several others for two evenings. He was allowed to protect himself with a bark shield and showed great courage and determination. It wasn't clear if his main opponent found him too skilled in defense to strike or if this was part of his punishment. On the second day of facing his opponent and his group, after deflecting several spears with his shield without getting hurt, he allowed his opponent to pin his left arm (below the elbow) to his side without fighting back. Perhaps he was held back by the raised spears of the other natives, who could have easily killed him by throwing spears from different angles. Carradah continued to defend himself for some time, even though he was wounded in the arm holding the shield, until his adversaries had run out of whole spears and had to retreat to gather the broken pieces and fix them. When he sat down, his left hand seemed to be convulsing quite a bit, and Mr. White believed the spear had damaged one of the nerves. They resumed the conflict once their weapons were ready, and the fighting escalated with men, women, and children all joining in, inflicting and receiving many serious wounds until darkness ended their battle.

[* So he was called among his own people before he knew us; but having exchanged names with Mr. Ball (who commanded the Supply,) he went afterwards by that name, which they had corrupted into Midjer Bool.]

[* So he was known among his own people before he met us; but after trading names with Mr. Ball (who was in charge of the Supply), he was later referred to by that name, which they had altered to Midjer Bool.]

What rendered this sort of contest as unaccountable as it was extraordinary was, that friendship and alliance were known to subsist between several that were opposed to each other, who fought with all the ardour of the bitterest enemies, and who, though wounded, pronounced the party by whom they had been hurt to be good and brave, and their friends.

What made this kind of contest as unexplainable as it was remarkable was that friendships and alliances existed between many of those who were opposing each other, fighting with all the intensity of the fiercest enemies. Even when wounded, they declared the person who had hurt them to be good and brave, and their friend.

Possessing by nature a good habit of body, the combatants very soon recovered of their wounds; and it was understood, that Carradah, or rather Midjer Bool, had not entirely expiated his offence, having yet another trial to undergo from some natives who had been prevented by absence from joining in the ceremonies of that evening.

Possessing a naturally strong constitution, the fighters quickly healed from their injuries; and it was understood that Carradah, or rather Midjer Bool, hadn't fully atoned for his wrongdoing, as he still had to face another judgment from some locals who had missed the evening's ceremonies due to being away.

About this time several houses were attempted to be broken into; many thefts were committed; and the general behaviour of the convicts was far from that propriety which ought to have marked them. The offences were various, and several punishments were of necessity inflicted. The Irish who came out in the last ships were, however, beginning to show symptoms of better dispositions than they landed with, and appeared only to dislike hard labour.

Around this time, several houses were attempted to be broken into; many thefts occurred, and the general behavior of the convicts was far from the proper behavior that should have characterized them. The offenses varied, and several punishments had to be enforced. However, the Irish who arrived on the last ships were starting to show signs of better attitudes than when they first landed, although they still seemed to dislike hard work.

Among the conveniencies that were now enjoyed in the colony must be mentioned the introduction of passage-boats, which, for the benefit of settlers and others, were allowed to go between Sydney and Parramatta. They were the property of persons who had served their respective terms of transportation; and from each passenger one shilling was required for his passage; luggage was paid for at the rate of one shilling per cwt; and the entire boat could be hired by one person for six shillings. This was a great accommodation to the description of people whom it was calculated to serve, and the proprietors of the boats found it very profitable to themselves.

Among the conveniences that were now available in the colony was the introduction of passenger boats, which, for the benefit of settlers and others, were allowed to operate between Sydney and Parramatta. These boats were owned by individuals who had completed their terms of transportation; each passenger was charged one shilling for their trip, and luggage was charged at one shilling per hundredweight. Additionally, a single person could rent the entire boat for six shillings. This was a significant benefit for the type of people it was designed to serve, and the boat owners found it to be quite profitable.

The boat-builders and shipwrights found occupation enough for their leisure hours, in building boats for those who could afford to pay them for their labour. Five and six gallons of spirits was the price, and five or six days would complete a boat fit to go up the harbour; but many of them were very badly put together, and threatened destruction to whoever might unfortunately be caught in them with a sail up in blowing weather.

The boat builders and shipwrights had plenty to keep them busy during their free time, constructing boats for anyone who could pay for their work. The cost was five or six gallons of liquor, and it would take about five or six days to finish a boat ready to sail up the harbor. However, many of these boats were poorly made and posed a real danger to anyone unfortunate enough to be out in them with a sail up in stormy weather.

On the 24th ten grants of land passed the seal of the territory, and received the lieutenant-governor's signature. Five allotments of twenty-five acres each, and one of thirty, were given to six non-commissioned officers of the New South Wales corps, who had chosen an eligible situation nearly midway between Sydney and Parramatta; and who, in conjunction with four other settlers, occupied a district to be distinguished in future by the name of Concord. These allotments extended inland from the water's side, within two miles of the district named Liberty Plains.

On the 24th, ten land grants were officially approved and signed by the lieutenant-governor. Five plots of twenty-five acres each, along with one plot of thirty acres, were given to six non-commissioned officers of the New South Wales corps. They chose a prime location almost halfway between Sydney and Parramatta, and, together with four other settlers, settled in an area that would later be known as Concord. These plots extended inland from the waterfront, within two miles of the area called Liberty Plains.

The settlers at this latter place appeared to have very unproductive crops, having sown their wheat late. They were, indeed, of opinion, that they had made a hasty and bad choice of situation; but this was nothing more than the language of disappointment, as little judgment could be formed of what any soil in this country would produce until it had been properly worked, dressed, cleansed, and purged of that sour quality that was naturally inherent in it, which it derived from the droppings of wet from the leaves of gum and other trees, and which were known to be of an acrid destructive nature.

The settlers at this latter place seemed to have very unproductive crops because they planted their wheat late. They really believed that they had made a quick and poor choice of location; however, this was just the expression of their disappointment, as it was hard to assess what any soil in this country would yield until it had been properly tilled, treated, cleaned, and cleared of the naturally sour quality it had, stemming from the moisture that dripped from the leaves of gum and other trees, which was known to be harmful and destructive.

Another barrack for officers was got up this month at Sydney; but, for want of tiles, was only partly covered in. The millwrights Wilkinson and Baughan had got up the frames and roofs of their respective mill-houses, and, while waiting for their being tiled, were proceeding with preparing the wood-work of their mills.

Another barrack for officers was constructed this month in Sydney; however, due to a lack of tiles, it was only partially covered. The millwrights Wilkinson and Baughan had set up the frames and roofs of their respective millhouses, and while they waited for the tiling, they continued preparing the woodwork for their mills.

The great want of tiles that was occasionally felt, proceeded from there being only one person in the place who was capable of moulding tiles, and he could never burn more than thirty thousand tiles in six weeks, being obliged to burn a large quantity of bricks in the same kilns. It required near sixty-nine thousand bricks to complete the building of one barrack, and twenty-one thousand tiles to cover it in. The number of tiles rendered useless by carriage, and destroyed in the kilns, was estimated at about three thousand in each kiln, and fifteen thousand were generally burnt off at a time.

The significant shortage of tiles that was sometimes experienced was due to the fact that there was only one person in town who could make tiles, and he could only fire about thirty thousand tiles in six weeks because he also had to burn a lot of bricks in the same kilns. It took nearly sixty-nine thousand bricks to finish building one barrack, and twenty-one thousand tiles to cover it. The number of tiles that were lost during transportation and damaged in the kilns was estimated to be around three thousand in each kiln, and typically, fifteen thousand were burned off at a time.

To furnish bricks for these barracks, and other buildings, three gangs were constantly at work, finding employment for three overseers and about eighty convicts.

To supply bricks for these barracks and other buildings, three teams were always working, providing jobs for three supervisors and about eighty inmates.

To convey these materials from the brickfield to the barrack-ground, a distance of about three-quarters of a mile, three brick-carts were employed, each drawn by twelve men, under the direction of one overseer. Seven hundred tiles, or three hundred and fifty bricks, were brought by each cart, and every cart in the day brought either five loads of bricks, or four of tiles. To bring in the timber necessary for these and other buildings, four timber-carriages were employed, each being drawn by twenty-four men. In addition to these, to each carriage were annexed two fallers, and one overseer, making a total of two hundred and twenty-eight men, who must be employed in any such heavy labour as the building of a barrack or a storehouse, exclusive of the sawyers, carpenters, smiths, painters, glaziers, and stonemasons, without whose labour they could not be completed.

To transport these materials from the brickfield to the barrack ground, a distance of about three-quarters of a mile, three brick carts were used, each pulled by twelve men, under the supervision of one overseer. Each cart delivered seven hundred tiles or three hundred and fifty bricks, with each cart making either five trips with bricks or four with tiles in a day. To bring in the timber needed for these and other buildings, four timber carriages were used, each drawn by twenty-four men. Additionally, each carriage had two fallers and one overseer, resulting in a total of two hundred and twenty-eight men required for any heavy labor, such as constructing a barrack or a storehouse, not counting the sawyers, carpenters, smiths, painters, glaziers, and stonemasons, whose work was essential for completion.

The expense of victualling and clothing these people (both their provisions and the materials for making their clothes being augmented above their prime cost, by freight and by the cost of what might be damaged and useless) must be supposed to be considerable; and must be taken into account, together with the cost of tools and of such materials as were not to be procured in the country, when calculating the expenses of the public works erected in this colony.

The cost of feeding and clothing these people (since both their supplies and the materials for making their clothes increased beyond their original cost due to shipping and the expenses related to damaged or unusable items) is probably significant; and it needs to be considered along with the cost of tools and materials that couldn’t be sourced in the country when calculating the expenses of the public works built in this colony.

There died between the 1st of January and 31st of December, both inclusive, two settlers, seven soldiers, seventy-eight male convicts, twenty-six female convicts, and twenty-nine children. One male convict was executed; six male convicts were lost in the woods; one male convict was found dead in the woods; one male convict was killed by the fall of a tree, and two male convicts were killed by lightning; making a decrease by death and accidents of one hundred and fifty-three persons. To this decrease may be added, four male convicts, who found means to escape from the colony on board of some of the ships which had been here.

Between January 1st and December 31st, there were two settlers, seven soldiers, seventy-eight male convicts, twenty-six female convicts, and twenty-nine children who died. One male convict was executed; six male convicts went missing in the woods; one male convict was found dead in the woods; one male convict was killed by a falling tree, and two male convicts were struck by lightning. This resulted in a total decrease of one hundred and fifty-three people due to deaths and accidents. Additionally, four male convicts managed to escape from the colony on some of the ships that had visited.

The following were the prices of grain, live and dead stock, grocery, spirits, etc. as they were sold or valued at Sydney and Parramatta at the close of the year 1793:

The following were the prices of grain, live and dead stock, groceries, spirits, etc. as they were sold or valued in Sydney and Parramatta at the end of the year 1793:

AT SYDNEY

GRAIN
Wheat per bushel, for cash, 10s
Ditto, in payment for labour, 14s
Maize per bushel, for cash, 7s
Ditto, in payment for labour, 12s 6d
Caffre corn 5s
English flour per lb 6d
Flour of this country, for cash, 3d
Ditto, for labour, 4d

VEGETABLES
Potatoes per cwt 10s
Ditto per lb 1½d

LIVE AND DEAD STOCK
Ewes (Cape) from £6 to £8 8s
Wethers (Cape) from £4 to £5 10s
She goats, full grown, £8 8s
Ditto, half grown, £4 4s
Male goat, full grown, £2
Breeding sows from £3 to £6
Sucking pigs 6s
A full grown hog from £3 to £3 10s
Turkeys per couple, nearly full grown, £2 ss
Ducks per couple, nearly ditto, 10s
Laying hens, each 5s
A full grown cock 4s
Half grown fowls 2s
Chickens, six weeks old, per couple 2s
Fresh pork per lb 9d
Mutton per lb from 2s to 2s 6d
Kangaroo per lb 4d
Salt pork per lb 9d
Salt beef per lb 6d

GROCERIES
Tea (green) from 12s to 16s
Tea (black) from 10s to 12s
Loaf sugar per lb 2s 6d
Fine moist sugar per lb 2s
Coarse moist sugar per lb 1s 6d
Butter from 2s per lb to 2s 6d
Cheese from 2s per lb to 2s 6d
Soap per lb from 2s to 3s
Tobacco per lb from 1s to 1s 6d
Lamp oil, made from shark's liver, per gall 4s

WINE--SPIRITS--PORTER
Jamaica rum per gallon from £1 to £1 8s
Rum (American) from 16s per gall to £1
Coniac brandy per gallon from £1 to £1 4s
Cape brandy per gallon from 16s to £1
Cherry brandy per dozen £3 12s
Wine (Cape Madeira) per gallon 12s
Porter per gallon from 4s to 6s

AT PARRAMATTA

GRAIN
Wheat per bushel, for cash, 10s
Ditto, in payment for labour, 14s
Maize per bushel, for cash, 7s 6d
Ditto, in payment for labour, l0s
Caffre corn, none
English flour per lb 6d
Flour of this country, for cash, 4d
Ditto, for labour, 6d

VEGETABLES
Potatoes per lb 3d
Greens per hundred 6s

LIVE AND DEAD STOCK
Ewes from £4 to £10
Wethers from £2 10s to £4
She goats from £4 to £10 10s
A young male goat £3
Breeding sows from £3 to £7
Sucking pigs from 4s to 7s 6d
Turkeys per couple, nearly full grown, £2 2s
Ducks per couple, full grown, £1 1s
Laying Hens, each from 4s to 7s 6d
A full grown cock 5s
Half grown fowls 3s
Chickens, six weeks old, per couple 2s
Fresh pork per lb 9d
Mutton per lb from 2s to 2s 6d
Kangaroo per lb 4d
Salt pork per lb 9d
Salt beef per lb 5d

GROCERIES
Tea (green) from 16s to £1 1s
Black tea from 10s to 16s
Moist sugar (coarse) 2s
Butter per lb 2s 6d
Cheese per lb 2s 6d
Soap per lb 3s
Tobacco per lb 2s
Lamp oil, made from shark's liver, per gall 4s

WINE--SPIRITS--PORTER
Neat spirits per gallon from £1 10s to £2
Wine of the most inferior quality per gall 16s

AT SYDNEY

GRAIN  
Wheat per bushel, for cash, 10 shillings  
Wheat, in payment for labor, 14 shillings  
Maize per bushel, for cash, 7 shillings  
Maize, in payment for labor, 12 shillings 6 pence  
Caffre corn 5 shillings  
English flour per pound 6 pence  
Local flour, for cash, 3 pence  
Local flour, for labor, 4 pence  

VEGETABLES  
Potatoes per hundredweight 10 shillings  
Potatoes per pound 1.5 pence  

LIVE AND DEAD STOCK  
Ewes (Cape) from £6 to £8 8 shillings  
Wethers (Cape) from £4 to £5 10 shillings  
Full-grown female goats £8 8 shillings  
Half-grown female goats £4 4 shillings  
Full-grown male goat £2  
Breeding sows from £3 to £6  
Sucking pigs 6 shillings  
A full-grown hog from £3 to £3 10 shillings  
Turkeys per couple, nearly full-grown, £2  
Ducks per couple, nearly the same, 10 shillings  
Laying hens, each 5 shillings  
A full-grown rooster 4 shillings  
Half-grown chickens 2 shillings  
Chickens, six weeks old, per couple 2 shillings  
Fresh pork per pound 9 pence  
Mutton per pound from 2 shillings to 2 shillings 6 pence  
Kangaroo per pound 4 pence  
Salt pork per pound 9 pence  
Salt beef per pound 6 pence  

GROCERIES  
Green tea from 12 shillings to 16 shillings  
Black tea from 10 shillings to 12 shillings  
Loaf sugar per pound 2 shillings 6 pence  
Fine moist sugar per pound 2 shillings  
Coarse moist sugar per pound 1 shilling 6 pence  
Butter from 2 shillings per pound to 2 shillings 6 pence  
Cheese from 2 shillings per pound to 2 shillings 6 pence  
Soap per pound from 2 shillings to 3 shillings  
Tobacco per pound from 1 shilling to 1 shilling 6 pence  
Lamp oil, made from shark's liver, per gallon 4 shillings  

WINE--SPIRITS--PORTER  
Jamaica rum per gallon from £1 to £1 8 shillings  
American rum from 16 shillings per gallon to £1  
Cognac brandy per gallon from £1 to £1 4 shillings  
Cape brandy per gallon from 16 shillings to £1  
Cherry brandy per dozen £3 12 shillings  
Cape Madeira wine per gallon 12 shillings  
Porter per gallon from 4 shillings to 6 shillings  

AT PARRAMATTA

GRAIN  
Wheat per bushel, for cash, 10 shillings  
Wheat, in payment for labor, 14 shillings  
Maize per bushel, for cash, 7 shillings 6 pence  
Maize, in payment for labor, 10 shillings  
Caffre corn, none  
English flour per pound 6 pence  
Local flour, for cash, 4 pence  
Local flour, for labor, 6 pence  

VEGETABLES  
Potatoes per pound 3 pence  
Greens per hundred 6 shillings  

LIVE AND DEAD STOCK  
Ewes from £4 to £10  
Wethers from £2 10 shillings to £4  
Female goats from £4 to £10 10 shillings  
A young male goat £3  
Breeding sows from £3 to £7  
Sucking pigs from 4 shillings to 7 shillings 6 pence  
Turkeys per couple, nearly full-grown, £2 2 shillings  
Ducks per couple, full-grown, £1 1 shilling  
Laying hens, each from 4 shillings to 7 shillings 6 pence  
A full-grown rooster 5 shillings  
Half-grown chickens 3 shillings  
Chickens, six weeks old, per couple 2 shillings  
Fresh pork per pound 9 pence  
Mutton per pound from 2 shillings to 2 shillings 6 pence  
Kangaroo per pound 4 pence  
Salt pork per pound 9 pence  
Salt beef per pound 5 pence  

GROCERIES  
Green tea from 16 shillings to £1 1 shilling  
Black tea from 10 shillings to 16 shillings  
Coarse moist sugar 2 shillings  
Butter per pound 2 shillings 6 pence  
Cheese per pound 2 shillings 6 pence  
Soap per pound 3 shillings  
Tobacco per pound 2 shillings  
Lamp oil, made from shark's liver, per gallon 4 shillings  

WINE--SPIRITS--PORTER  
Neat spirits per gallon from £1 10 shillings to £2  
Wine of the most inferior quality per gallon 16 shillings

The high prices of wine, spirits, and porter, proceeded not only from their scarcity, but from the great avidity with which they were procured by the generality of the people in these settlements, with whom money was of so little value, that the purchaser had been often known (instead of asking) to name himself a price for the article he wanted, fixing it at as high again would otherwise have been required of him.

The high prices of wine, spirits, and porter came not only from their scarcity but also from the intense desire with which most people in these settlements bought them. For these folks, money held so little value that buyers were often known to state a price for what they wanted, setting it at twice what would normally be asked.

The live stock in the country belonging to individuals was confined to three or four persons, who kept up the price in order to create an interest in the preservation of it. An English cow, in calf by the bull which was brought here in the Gorgon, was sold by one officer to another for eighty pounds; and the calf, which proved a male, was sold for fifteen pounds. A mare, brought in the Britannia from the Cape, was valued at forty pounds, and, although aged and defective, was sold twice in the course of a few days for that sum. It must however be remarked, that in these sales stock itself was generally the currency of the country, one kind of animals being commonly exchanged for another.

The livestock in the country owned by individuals was limited to three or four people, who kept the prices high to encourage interest in their preservation. An English cow, pregnant by the bull brought here on the Gorgon, was sold by one officer to another for eighty pounds; the male calf that was born was sold for fifteen pounds. A mare, brought on the Britannia from the Cape, was valued at forty pounds and, despite being old and imperfect, was sold twice within a few days for that amount. It should be noted that in these sales, livestock itself was generally the currency of the country, with one type of animal commonly exchanged for another.

Labour was also proportionably high. For sawing one hundred feet of timber, in their own time, for individuals, a pair of sawyers demanded seven shillings; a carpenter for his day's work charged three shillings; and for splitting paling for fences, and bringing it in from the woods, they charged from one shilling and six-pence to two shillings and six-pence per hundred. An officer who had an allotment of one hundred acres of land near the town of Sydney having occasion for a hundred thousand bricks to build a dwelling-house, contracted with a brickmaker and his gang, and for that number of bricks paid him the sum of forty-two pounds ten shillings. In the fields, for cutting down the timber of an acre of ground, burning it off, and afterwards hoeing it for corn, the price was four pounds. Five-and-twenty shillings were demanded and paid for hoeing an acre of ground already cleared.

Labor costs were also relatively high. For sawing one hundred feet of timber in their own time for individuals, a pair of sawyers charged seven shillings; a carpenter demanded three shillings for a full day's work; and for splitting fence palings and bringing them in from the woods, they charged between one shilling and six pence to two shillings and six pence per hundred. An officer who had a one hundred-acre lot near Sydney needed one hundred thousand bricks to build a house, so he contracted with a brickmaker and his crew, paying a total of forty-two pounds ten shillings for those bricks. For clearing an acre of land, burning the timber, and then hoeing it for corn, the cost was four pounds. For hoeing an already cleared acre, they charged and received twenty-five shillings.

For all this labour, where money was paid, it was taken at its reputed value; but where articles were given in lieu of labour, they were charged according to the prices stated.

For all this work, when money was involved, it was accepted at its estimated value; but when items were exchanged for work, they were priced according to the stated values.

The masters of merchantmen, who generally made it their business immediately on their arrival to learn the prices of commodities in the colony, finding them so extravagantly high as before related, thought it not their concern to reduce them to anything like a fair equitable value; but, by asking themselves what must be considered a high price, after every proper allowance for risk, insurance, and loss, kept up the extravagant nominal value which every thing bore in the colony.

The captains of merchant ships, who usually made it a point to find out the prices of goods in the colony as soon as they arrived, noticed that the prices were still ridiculously high as mentioned earlier. They didn’t think it was their responsibility to bring them down to a reasonably fair value. Instead, by considering what could be seen as a high price after accounting for risk, insurance, and loss, they maintained the inflated nominal value that everything had in the colony.

CHAPTER XXIV

A murder happened near Parramatta
The Francis is headed to Norfolk Island
Supplies
A storm hit Parramatta
Crops
A settlement established at the Hawkesbury
Indigenous people
A burglary took place
Samuel Burt was freed
Death of William Crozier Cook
The watches were recovered
The Francis comes back from Norfolk Island
Updates
The New Zealand Indigenous people were sent back to their home country
Disturbance at Norfolk Island
Court of inquiry in Sydney
The Francis goes back to Norfolk Island
Indigenous people causing trouble
Condition of supplies

1794.]

1794.

January.] The report that was spread in April last, of a murder having been committed on a watchman belonging to the township of Parramatta, never having been confirmed, either by finding the body among the stalks of Indian corn as was expected, or by any one subsequent circumstance, it was hoped that the story had been fabricated, and that murder was a crime which for many years to come would not stain the annals of the colony. In proportion, indeed, as our numbers increased, and the inhabitants began to possess those comforts or necessaries which might prove temptations to the idle and the vicious, that high and horrid offence might, in common with others of the same tendency, be expected to exist; but at this moment all thought their persons secure, though their property was frequently invaded. On the 5th of this month, however, John Lewis, an elderly convict, employed to go out with the cattle at Parramatta, was most barbarously murdered. The cattle, having lost their conductor, remained that night in the woods; and when they were found, the absence of Lewis excited an apprehension that some accident had happened to him. His body was not discovered however until the Wednesday following, when, by the snorting and great uneasiness of the cattle which had been driven out for the purpose, it was perceived lying in a hollow or ravine, into which it had been thrown by those who had butchered him, covered with logs, boughs, and grass. Some native dogs, led by the scent of human blood, had found it, and by gnawing off both the hands, and the entire flesh from one arm, had added considerably to the horrid spectacle which the body exhibited on being freed from the load of rubbish which had been heaped upon it.

January.] The report that circulated last April about a murder of a watchman in the township of Parramatta was never confirmed, either by finding the body among the stalks of Indian corn as expected or by any other subsequent evidence. It was hoped that the story was made up and that murder would not stain the history of the colony for many years. As our population grew and people began to have comforts or necessities that could tempt the idle and immoral, it was likely that such a serious crime could occur along with others of similar nature. But at that moment, everyone felt safe in their persons, even though their property was often violated. However, on the 5th of this month, John Lewis, an older convict employed to tend the cattle at Parramatta, was brutally murdered. The cattle, having lost their driver, spent the night in the woods; when they were found, Lewis's absence raised concerns that something bad had happened to him. His body wasn't discovered until the following Wednesday, when the snorting and distress of the cattle led to his lying in a hollow or ravine, where it had been thrown by his killers, covered with logs, branches, and grass. Some native dogs, attracted by the scent of blood, had found it and had gnawed off both hands and all the flesh from one arm, adding to the horrific scene revealed when the debris was removed.

This unfortunate man had imprudently boasted of being worth much money, and that he always carried it with him sewed up in some part of his clothes, to guard against losing it while absent from his hut. If this was true, what he carried with him certainly proved his destruction; if not, the catastrophe must be attributed to his indiscreet declarations. By the various wounds which he had received, it appeared that he must have well defended himself, and could not have parted with his life until overpowered by numbers; for, though advanced in years, he was a stout, muscular man; and it was from this circumstance concluded, that more than one person was concerned in the murder of him. To discover, if possible, the perpetrators of this atrocious offence, one or two men of bad characters were taken up and examined, as well as all the people employed about the stockyard: but nothing came out that tended to fix it upon any one of them; and, desirable as it was that they should be brought to that punishment which sooner or later awaited them, it was feared that until some riot or disagreement among themselves should occur, no clue would be furnished that would lead to their detection. The body was therefore brought in from the spot where it had been concealed, about four miles from Parramatta, and buried at that place, after having been very carefully examined by the assistant-surgeon Mr. Arndell.

This unfortunate man had foolishly bragged about being wealthy and claimed he always carried his money sewn into his clothes to avoid losing it while away from his hut. If this was true, what he carried with him definitely led to his downfall; if not, the tragedy must be blamed on his careless statements. The multiple wounds he sustained suggested he fought back well and did not lose his life until overwhelmed by numbers; even though he was older, he was a strong, muscular man. This led to the conclusion that more than one person was involved in his murder. To try to find the culprits behind this horrific crime, one or two known troublemakers were questioned, along with everyone who worked around the stockyard. However, nothing emerged that could link any of them to the crime. Although it was crucial to bring them to justice, it was feared that until some conflict arose among themselves, no evidence would surface to help identify them. Therefore, the body was brought in from where it had been hidden, about four miles from Parramatta, and buried there after being carefully examined by the assistant-surgeon Mr. Arndell.

In tracing the motives that could lead to this murder, the pernicious vice of gaming presented itself as the first and grand cause. To such excess was this pursuit carried among the convicts, that some had been known, after losing provisions, money, and all their spare clothing, to have staked and lost the very clothes on their wretched backs, standing in the midst of their associates as naked, and as indifferent about it, as the unconscious natives of the country. Money was, however, the principal object with these people; for with money they could purchase spirits, or whatever else their passions made them covet, and the colony could furnish. They have been seen playing at their favourite games cribbage and all-fours, for six, eight, and ten dollars each game; and those who were not expert at these, instead of pence, tossed up for dollars. Their meetings were scenes of quarrelling, swearing, and every profaneness that might be expected from the dissolute manners of the people who composed them; and to this improper practice must undoubtedly be attributed most of the vices that existed in the colony, pilferings, garden-robberies, burglaries, profanation of the Sabbath, and murder.

In examining the reasons behind this murder, the harmful habit of gambling emerged as the main cause. The convicts were so consumed by this activity that some were known to gamble away their food, money, and all their extra clothing, even losing the very clothes off their backs, standing among their peers completely naked and seemingly unfazed, much like the unaware natives of the land. Money was the primary focus for these individuals; with it, they could buy alcohol or anything else that their desires drove them to, which the colony could provide. They were often seen playing their favorite games, cribbage and all-fours, for six, eight, and ten dollars per game; and those who weren’t skilled at these games would bet dollars instead of small coins. Their gatherings were filled with arguments, swearing, and all kinds of disrespectful behavior one would expect from such a depraved group, and it's clear that this negative behavior was a major factor contributing to many of the vices in the colony, including theft, garden robberies, break-ins, desecration of the Sabbath, and murder.

On the 5th the Francis sailed for Norfolk Island. The last accounts from thence were dated in March 1793; and as we were uncertain that the supplies which had been sent in the April following by Mr. Bampton had been safely landed, we became extremely anxious to learn the exact state of the settlement there. This information was all the advantage that was expected to be derived from the voyage; for, whatever Mr. King's wants might be, the stores at Sydney were incapable of alleviating them. Little apprehension was however entertained of his being in any need of supplies, as, at the date of his last letter, he reckoned that his crops of wheat and maize would produce more grain than would be sufficient for twelve months consumption.

On the 5th, the Francis set sail for Norfolk Island. The last reports from there were from March 1793; since we weren't sure if the supplies sent by Mr. Bampton in April had arrived safely, we became very eager to find out the current situation of the settlement. This information was the only benefit we expected from the voyage, because no matter what Mr. King needed, the supplies in Sydney couldn't meet those needs. However, we weren't too concerned about him needing supplies, as in his last letter he estimated that his crops of wheat and maize would yield more grain than enough for a year's consumption.

At this time, an account of the salt provisions remaining in store at Sydney and Parramatta being taken, it appeared, that there were sufficient for only ten weeks at the ration then issued, viz three pounds per man per week. In this situation, every addition that could be made to the ration was eagerly sought after. Wheat was paid to the industrious in exchange for labour; and those who were allowed to subsist independent of the public stores availed themselves of that indulgence to its fullest extent. It might therefore have been expected, that every advantage was taken of such a situation, and that no opportunity would be lost from which any profit could be derived. As an instance of this, one Lane, a person who had been a convict, and who was allowed to support himself how he could, was detected in buying a kangaroo of a man employed by an officer to shoot for him. The game-killer, with the assistance of six or seven greyhounds, had killed three kangaroos, two of which he brought in; the third he sold or lent to Lane, but said he had cut it up for his dogs.

At this time, when an inventory of the salt supplies remaining in storage at Sydney and Parramatta was taken, it turned out that there was enough for only ten weeks based on the current ration, which was three pounds per person per week. Given this situation, every possible addition to the rations was eagerly pursued. Wheat was given to those who worked in exchange for their labor, and those who were permitted to live independently of the public stores took full advantage of this allowance. Therefore, it could be expected that every opportunity would be exploited to gain some benefit. For example, a man named Lane, who had previously been a convict and was allowed to fend for himself, was caught buying a kangaroo from a person hired by an officer to hunt for him. The hunter, assisted by six or seven greyhounds, had caught three kangaroos; he brought in two of them, while he sold or lent the third one to Lane, claiming he had cut it up for his dogs.

As most of the officers in the colony were allowed people to shoot for them, it became necessary to make some example of the man who bought, rather than of him who sold; for it was a maxim pretty generally adopted, that the receiver was more culpable than the thief. The lieutenant-governor, therefore, ordered Lane to be punished with one hundred lashes, placed upon the commissary's books for provisions, and sent up to labour at Toongabbie.

As most of the officers in the colony had people shoot game for them, it became necessary to set an example of the man who bought the game, rather than the one who sold it; for it was a commonly accepted belief that the receiver was more guilty than the thief. The lieutenant-governor, therefore, ordered Lane to be punished with one hundred lashes, put on the commissary's books for provisions, and sent to work at Toongabbie.

About the middle of the month one small cow and a Bengal steer, both private property, were killed, and issued to the non-commissioned officers and privates of two companies of the New South Wales corps. This was but the third time that fresh beef had been tasted by the colonists of this country; once, it may be remembered, in the year 1788, and a second time when the lieutenant-governor and the officers of the settlement were entertained by the Spanish captains. At that time however, had we not been informed that we were eating beef, we should never have discovered it by the flavour; and it certainly happened to more than one Englishman that day, to eat his favourite viand without recognising the taste.*

About the middle of the month, a small cow and a Bengal steer, both privately owned, were killed and distributed to the non-commissioned officers and privates of two companies of the New South Wales corps. This was only the third time that the colonists of this country had tasted fresh beef; the first was in 1788, and the second occurred when the lieutenant-governor and the officers of the settlement were treated by the Spanish captains. However, at that time, if we hadn't been told we were eating beef, we would never have figured it out by the taste; and it happened to more than one Englishman that day to eat his favorite dish without recognizing the flavor.*

[* We understood that the Spanish mode of roasting beef, or mutton, was, first to boil and then to brown the joint before the fire.]

[* We learned that the Spanish method of roasting beef or mutton involves first boiling the meat and then browning it over the fire.]

The beef that was killed at this time was deemed worth eighteen-pence per pound, and at that price was sold to the soldiers. The two animals together weighed three hundred and seventy-two pounds.

The beef that was slaughtered at this time was valued at eighteen pence per pound, and at that price, it was sold to the soldiers. The two animals together weighed three hundred seventy-two pounds.

About this time accounts were received from Parramatta of an uncommon storm of wind, accompanied with rain, having occurred there. In its violence it bordered on a hurricane, running in a vein, and in a direction from east to west. The west end of the governor's hut was injured, the paling round some farms which lay in its passage were levelled, and a great deal of Indian corn was much damaged. It was not however felt at Sydney, nor, fortunately, at Toongabbie; and was but of short duration; but the rain was represented as having been very heavy. The climate was well known to be subject to sudden gusts of wind and changes of weather; but nothing of this violence had been before experienced within our knowledge.

About this time, we received reports from Parramatta about an unusual storm with strong winds and heavy rain. It was so intense that it was almost like a hurricane, blowing from east to west. The west side of the governor's hut was damaged, fences around some farms in its path were knocked down, and a lot of corn was severely affected. However, it wasn’t felt in Sydney or, thankfully, in Toongabbie, and it was brief; although the rain was said to be very heavy. The climate is known for sudden gusts of wind and rapid weather changes, but nothing this severe had been experienced before, as far as we know.

It was found that the settlers, notwithstanding the plentiful crops which in general they might be said to have gathered, gave no assistance to government by sending any into store. Some small quantity (about one hundred and sixty bushels) indeed had been received; but nothing equal either to the wants or expectations of government. They appeared to be most sedulously endeavouring to get rid of their grain in any way they could; some by brewing and distilling it; some by baking it into bread, and indulging their own propensities in eating; others by paying debts contracted by gaming. Even the farms themselves were pledged and lost in this way; those very farms which undoubtedly were capable of furnishing them with an honest comfortable maintenance for life.

It was discovered that the settlers, despite the abundant crops they had generally harvested, provided no support to the government by sending any surplus to storage. A small amount (about one hundred and sixty bushels) had indeed been received; however, it was far from meeting the needs or expectations of the government. They seemed to be doing everything possible to get rid of their grain; some by brewing and distilling it, some by baking it into bread and indulging their appetites, and others by settling debts incurred through gambling. Even the farms themselves were used as collateral and lost in this manner—those very farms that could have provided them with a decent and comfortable living for life.

No regular account had been obtained of what these farms had produced; but it was pretty well ascertained, that their crops had yielded at the least nearly seven thousand bushels of wheat. Of the different districts, that of Prospect Hill proved to be the most productive; some grounds there returned thirty bushels of wheat for one. Next to the district of Prospect Hill, the Northern Boundary farms were the best; but many of the settlers at the other districts ascribed their miscarriage more to the late periods at which their grounds were sown, than to any poverty in the soil; and seemed to have no doubt, if they could procure seed-wheat in proper time (that is, to be in the ground in April) and the season were favourable, of being repaid the expenses which they had been at, and of being enabled to supply themselves and families with grain sufficient for their sustenance without any aid from the public stores.

No detailed account had been kept of what these farms produced, but it was pretty much confirmed that their crops had yielded at least nearly seven thousand bushels of wheat. Among the different areas, Prospect Hill turned out to be the most productive; some fields there produced thirty bushels of wheat for every bushel sown. After Prospect Hill, the Northern Boundary farms were the next best; however, many settlers in other areas believed their failures were due more to the late planting of their fields than to poor soil quality. They were confident that if they could get seed wheat in time (meaning it needed to be sown by April) and if the weather was good, they would cover their costs and have enough grain to feed themselves and their families without needing help from public stores.

The ground in cultivation on account of government, which had been sown with wheat (three hundred and sixty acres) was found to have produced about the same quantity as that raised by the settlers. Through the want of flour, the consumption of this article was however very great; and toward the latter end of the month half of the whole produce of the last season (reserving twelve hundred bushels for feed) had been issued. This afforded but a gloomy prospect; for it was much feared, that unless supplies arrived in time, the Indian corn would not be ripe soon enough to save the seed-wheat.

The land being farmed by the government, which had been planted with wheat (three hundred and sixty acres), ended up yielding about the same amount as what the settlers produced. Due to the shortage of flour, the demand for this product was extremely high; and by the end of the month, half of the entire harvest from last season (after setting aside twelve hundred bushels for animal feed) had been distributed. This created a pretty bleak outlook; there were serious concerns that, unless supplies arrived soon, the corn wouldn’t be ready in time to save the wheat seed.

On the 25th, the grain from Bengal being expended, and no more Indian corn of last year's growth remaining that could be served, the public were informed, that from that time no other grain than wheat could be issued; and accordingly on that day the male convicts received for their week's subsistence three pounds of pork and eight pounds of wheat. One pound of wheat more than was issued to the convicts was received on the Monday following by the civil and military.

On the 25th, since the grain from Bengal had been used up and there was no more Indian corn from last year's harvest left to distribute, the public was notified that from that point on, only wheat would be provided. Therefore, on that day, the male convicts received three pounds of pork and eight pounds of wheat for their weekly ration. One pound more of wheat than what was given to the convicts was received the following Monday by the civil and military personnel.

In this unprovided state of the settlement, the return of Mr. Bampton with his promised cargo of cattle, salt provisions, rice, and dholl, began to be daily and anxiously expected. The completion of the Britannia's voyage was also looked forward to as a desirable event, though to be expected at a somewhat later period; and every shower of rain, as it tended to the benefit of the Indian corn then growing, was received as a sort of presage that at least the seed wheat, the hopes of next season, would be safe. Some very welcome rain had fallen during this month, which considerably revived the Indian corn that was first sown, and improved the appearance of that which had been sown later.

In this difficult situation of the settlement, the return of Mr. Bampton with his promised shipment of cattle, salt provisions, rice, and dholl was eagerly anticipated every day. Everyone was also looking forward to the completion of the Britannia's voyage as a positive event, though it was expected to happen a bit later; and every rain shower, which helped the growing Indian corn, was seen as a sign that at least the seed wheat, the hope for next season, would be safe. Some much-needed rain had fallen this month, significantly reviving the Indian corn that had been planted first and improving the look of the later-sown crops.

Another division of settlers was this month added to the list of those already established. Williams and Ruse, having got rid of the money which they had respectively received for their farms, were permitted, with some others, to open ground on the banks of the Hawkesbury, at the distance of about twenty-four miles from Parramatta. They chose for themselves allotments of ground conveniently situated for fresh water, and not much burdened with timber, beginning with much spirit, and forming to themselves very sanguine hopes of success. At the end of the month they had been so active as to have cleared several acres, and were in some forwardness with a few huts. The natives had not given them any interruption.

Another group of settlers was added this month to the ones already established. Williams and Ruse, having spent the money they received for their farms, were allowed, along with a few others, to clear land on the banks of the Hawkesbury, about twenty-four miles from Parramatta. They selected plots of land that were conveniently located near fresh water and not heavily wooded, starting off with a lot of energy and forming very optimistic hopes for success. By the end of the month, they had been so proactive that they had cleared several acres and were making good progress on a few huts. The natives had not disturbed them at all.

These people, however, though they had not been heard of where it might have been expected they would have proved troublesome, had not been so quiet in the neighbourhood of Parramatta. Between that settlement and Prospect Hill some settlers had been attacked by a party of armed natives and stripped of all their provisions. Reports of this nature had been frequently brought in, and many, perhaps, might have been fabricated to answer a purpose; but there was not a doubt that these people were very desirous of possessing our clothing and provisions; and it was noticed, that as the corn ripened, they constantly drew together round the settlers farms and round the public grounds, for the purpose of committing depredations.

These people, however, even though they hadn’t been seen where it was expected they would cause trouble, had not been so quiet in the Parramatta area. Between that settlement and Prospect Hill, some settlers had been attacked by a group of armed locals and stripped of all their supplies. Similar reports had come in frequently, and many might have been made up for a reason; but there was no doubt that these people really wanted our clothes and food. It was also observed that as the corn ripened, they consistently gathered around the settlers’ farms and public areas to commit thefts.

Several gardens were robbed and some houses broken into during this month, the certain effect of a reduced ration. One burglary which was committed was of some magnitude, and deserving of mention. A sergeant of the New South Wales corps having been on guard, on his return to his hut in the morning, had the mortification of finding he had been robbed during his absence of a large quantity of wearing apparel, and twenty-seven pounds in guineas and dollars; in fact the thief had stripped him of all his moveable property, except only a spare suit of regimentals. The hut stood the first of a new row just without the town, and ought not to have been left without some person to take care of it. The spoil, no doubt, soon passed from one hand to another in the practice of that vice which, as already mentioned, too generally prevailed among the lower class of the people in the colony.

Several gardens were stolen from and some houses were broken into this month, clearly a result of decreased rations. One burglary that occurred was significant enough to be noted. A sergeant from the New South Wales corps, after being on guard, returned to his hut in the morning only to discover he had been robbed of a large amount of clothing and twenty-seven pounds in coins; in fact, the thief had taken all his movable property except for an extra set of uniform. The hut was the first in a new row just outside the town, and it shouldn't have been left unattended. The stolen goods likely changed hands quickly, feeding into the crime that, as previously noted, was all too common among the lower class of people in the colony.

At Parramatta some people were taken up and punished, on being detected in issuing to themselves from the stores, where they were employed, a greater proportion of provisions than the ration. This offence had often been committed; and though it was always punished with severity, yet while convicts were employed, it was likely, notwithstanding the utmost vigilance, to continue. Vigilance seemed only to incite to deeper contrivances; and perhaps, though discoveries of this practice had often occurred, yet too many had been guilty of it with impunity, and, being alarmed, had withdrawn in time from the danger.

At Parramatta, some people were caught and punished for taking more supplies from the stores where they worked than they were allowed. This offense had happened frequently, and even though it was always punished harshly, it was likely to continue as long as convicts were employed, despite the best efforts to keep an eye on things. Staying vigilant only seemed to inspire more clever schemes; and while there had been many discoveries of this practice, too many had gotten away with it and managed to avoid getting caught in time.

But very few appeared deserving of confidence; for, sooner or later, wherever it had been placed, either temptation was too strong, or opportunity proved too favourable; and many who had been deemed honest enough to be trusted ended their services by being detected in a breach of that duty which they owed to the public as a return for the faith which had been reposed in them.

But very few seemed worthy of trust; because, sooner or later, wherever trust was invested, either temptation became too strong, or the opportunity turned out to be too appealing; and many who were considered honest enough to be trusted ended their service by being caught violating the duty they owed to the public in return for the faith that had been placed in them.

This perhaps was owing to the uncertainty of reward for any services that they might render while in the class of convicts. As an exception to this rule, however, must be mentioned those people to whom unconditional emancipation had been held out at the expiration of a certain period, if then considered as deserving of his Majesty's mercy as at the time of making the promise. In the hope of this reward they continued to conduct themselves without incurring the slightest censure; and one of them, Samuel Burt, was deemed, through a conscientious and rigid discharge of his duty, to have merited the pardon he looked up to. Accordingly, on the last day of the month he was declared absolutely free. In the instrument of his emancipation it was stated, 'that the remainder of his term of transportation was remitted in consideration of his good conduct in discovering and thereby preventing the intended mutiny on board the Scarborough in her voyage to this country in the year 1790, and his faithful services in the public stores under the commissary since his arrival.' Independent of his integrity as a storekeeper, he was certainly deserving of some distinguishing mark of favour for having been the means of saving the transport in which he came out at the risk of his own life.

This was likely due to the uncertainty of any rewards for the services they might provide while still considered convicts. However, there were exceptions for those who were promised unconditional freedom after a certain period if they proved themselves deserving of the King's mercy at the time of the promise. Hoping for this reward, they behaved well and avoided any criticism. One of them, Samuel Burt, was recognized for his dedicated and strict performance of his duties, making him worthy of the pardon he awaited. Thus, on the last day of the month, he was declared free. The document of his emancipation stated that "the remainder of his term of transportation was cancelled due to his good conduct in discovering and preventing the planned mutiny on board the Scarborough during its voyage to this country in 1790, and for his loyal service in the public stores under the commissary since his arrival." Beyond his honesty as a storekeeper, he certainly deserved some special recognition for having saved the transport in which he traveled, risking his own life in the process.

At the end of this month nearly four hundred acres were got ready for wheat at Sydney, and every exertion was making to increase that quantity.

At the end of this month, almost four hundred acres were prepared for wheat in Sydney, and every effort was being made to increase that amount.

A large number of slops having been prepared, a frock, shirt, and trousers, were served out to each male convict at Sydney and the interior settlements. Shoes were become an article of exceeding scarcity; and the country had hitherto afforded nothing that could be substituted for them. A convict who understood the business of a tanner had shown that the skin of the kangaroo might be tanned; but the animal was not found in sufficient abundance to answer this purpose for any number of people; and the skin itself was not of a substance to be applied to the soling of shoes.

A large amount of clothing, including a frock, shirt, and trousers, was given to each male convict in Sydney and the interior settlements. Shoes had become extremely scarce, and up until now, the area provided nothing that could replace them. A convict with tanning skills had demonstrated that kangaroo skin could be tanned, but there weren't enough kangaroos available to supply the needs of the population, and the skin itself wasn't suitable for making shoe soles.

Among the number of deaths this month was that of William Crozier Cook, who expired in consequence of eating two pounds of unground wheat, which was forced, by his immediately drinking a quantity of water, into the intestines, whence it could not pass; and though the most active medicines were administered a mortification took place in the lower part of his intestines, which put an end to his life. Cook had, for a length of time after his arrival in this country, been a worthless vagabond; but had latterly appeared sensible how much more to his advantage a different character would prove, and had gained the good word and opinion of the overseers and superintendants under whom he laboured.

Among the number of deaths this month was that of William Crozier Cook, who died after eating two pounds of unground wheat, which was pushed into his intestines by drinking a large amount of water, and could not pass through. Even though the strongest medicines were given, a gangrene developed in the lower part of his intestines, which led to his death. After arriving in this country, Cook had been a worthless drifter for a long time, but recently he seemed to realize how much better it would be to change his ways and had earned the good opinion of the overseers and supervisors he worked under.

February.] On the 4th of this month the watches which had remained so long undiscovered were brought down from Parramatta by Lieutenant Macarthur. By a chain of circumstances it appeared that they had been stolen by John Bevan, who at the time had broken out of the prison hut at Toongabbie, and coming immediately down to Sydney, in conjunction with Sutton (the man who was tried for stealing Mr. Raven's watch in October 1792) committed the theft, returning with the spoil to his hut at Toongabbie before he had been missed from it by any of the watchmen. He afterwards played at cards with another convict, and exchanged the watches for a nankeen waistcoat and trousers. From this man they got into the possession of two or three other people, and were at last, by great accident, found to be in the possession of one Batty, an overseer, in the thatch of whose hut they, together with ten dollars, were found safe and uninjured. The dollars were supposed to be part of the money stolen at the same time from Walsh at the hospital*, with whom Bevan, some time before, had made acquaintance, winning from him not only a hundred weight of flour, which he had almost starved himself to lay by, but deluding him also out of the secret of his money, with every particular that was necessary to his design of stealing it.

February.] On the 4th of this month, the watches that had been missing for so long were brought down from Parramatta by Lieutenant Macarthur. A series of events revealed that they had been stolen by John Bevan, who at the time had escaped from the prison hut at Toongabbie. He quickly made his way to Sydney, where he teamed up with Sutton (the guy who was tried for stealing Mr. Raven's watch in October 1792) to commit the theft, returning with the stolen items to his hut at Toongabbie before any of the watchmen realized he was gone. He later played cards with another convict and exchanged the watches for a nankeen waistcoat and trousers. From this individual, the watches ended up in the hands of two or three other people, and eventually, by pure chance, they were discovered with an overseer named Batty, hidden in the thatch of his hut, along with ten dollars that were found safe and unharmed. The dollars were believed to be part of the money stolen from Walsh at the hospital*, with whom Bevan had previously struck up a friendship, cheating him not only out of a hundredweight of flour that Walsh had nearly starved himself to save, but also coaxing him into revealing the secret of his money, along with every detail necessary to pull off the theft.

[* This wretched old man did not long survive the loss of his money.]

[* This miserable old man didn't live long after losing his money.]

This was the information given against Bevan by the people through whose hands the watches had passed; but as it was entirely unsupported by any corroborating circumstance, he was discharged without punishment; but Batty and another man, Luke Normington, of whose guilt there was not a doubt, received each a severe corporal punishment by order of the lieutenant-governor. In all the examinations which took place, nothing appeared that affected Sutton, farther than the unsupported assertions of one or two other convicts; but if Bevan was assisted by any one, Sutton, from his general character, having already dealt in the article of watches, was very probably his friend on the occasion

This was the information provided against Bevan by the people who had handled the watches; however, since there was no supporting evidence, he was released without any punishment. In contrast, Batty and another man, Luke Normington, who was clearly guilty, each received a harsh physical punishment as ordered by the lieutenant-governor. Throughout all the investigations, nothing implicated Sutton other than the unverified claims of one or two other convicts. However, if Bevan was helped by anyone, it’s likely that Sutton, given his background and previous involvement with watches, was his accomplice in this situation.

The constancy of this wretched young man (Bevan) was astonishing. He most steadily denied knowing any thing of the transaction, treating with equal indifference both promises of rewards and threats of punishment. Crow, who was executed in December last, declared a short time before he suffered, that he had been shown the watches by Bevan in the corn ground between Parramatta and Toongabbie; but as they had never been found in his possession, he resolved on obstinately persisting in the declaration that, however guilty of others, he was at least innocent of this offence; and he thus escaped this time from justice, to be led, perhaps at no very distant period, if not sufficiently warned, with surer step to the gallows that he had so often merited, and in the high road to which he seemed daily to be walking.

The consistency of this unfortunate young man (Bevan) was remarkable. He firmly denied any knowledge of the event, showing equal indifference to both offers of rewards and threats of punishment. Crow, who was executed last December, stated shortly before his death that Bevan had shown him the watches in the field between Parramatta and Toongabbie. However, since the watches were never found in Bevan's possession, he stubbornly insisted that, regardless of his guilt in other matters, he was innocent of this crime. In doing so, he avoided justice for now but seemed to be heading towards the gallows he had long deserved, potentially without much warning.

On the 12th the Francis returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent five weeks and three days.

On the 12th, the Francis came back from Norfolk Island after being away for five weeks and three days.

The information received from that settlement was, that the Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield arrived there from this place, on the 2nd day of May last, when, every article of stores and provisions which had been put on board of them being safely landed, both ships sailed for India on the 27th day of the same month; Captain Bampton purposing to attempt making the passage between New Holland and New Guinea, that was expected to be found to the northward of Endeavor Straits.

The information received from that settlement was that the Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield arrived there from this place on May 2nd, when all the supplies and provisions loaded onto them were safely unloaded. Both ships then set sail for India on the 27th of the same month, with Captain Bampton planning to try to navigate the route between New Holland and New Guinea, which was thought to be located north of Endeavor Straits.

While these ships were off Lord Howe Island, they experienced a heavy gale of wind, in which the Shah Hormuzear lost her topmasts, and the Chesterfield was in much danger from a leak which she sprung. Captain Bampton having, in some bad weather off Norfolk Island, lost his long-boat, he, with the assistance given him by Lieutenant-governor King, built, in ten days, a very fine one of thirty-two feet keel, with which he sailed, and without which it would not have been quite safe for him to have proceeded on a voyage where much of the navigation lay among islands and shoals, and where part of it had certainly been unexplored.

While these ships were near Lord Howe Island, they faced a heavy storm, during which the Shah Hormuzear lost her topmasts, and the Chesterfield was in serious danger from a leak that developed. Captain Bampton, having lost his longboat during rough weather off Norfolk Island, received help from Lieutenant-governor King and built a great longboat measuring thirty-two feet in just ten days. This boat allowed him to set sail, and without it, it wouldn't have been safe for him to continue a journey that involved navigating around islands and shallow waters, some of which were definitely uncharted.

Mr. King had the satisfaction of stating, that his crops had been abundant, plenty reigning among all descriptions of people in the island. His wheat was cut, the first of it on the 25th of November last, and the harvest was well got in by Christmas Day. About two thousand bushels were the calculated produce of this crop, which would have been greater had it not, during its growth, been hurt by the want of rain. Of the maize, the first crop (having always two) was gathering while the schooner was there, and, notwithstanding the drought. turned out well; from one acre and a quarter of ground, one hundred and six bushels had been gathered; but it was pretty generally established on the island, that thirty-six bushels of maize might be taken as the average produce of an acre of ground.

Mr. King was pleased to say that his crops were plentiful, with abundance experienced by everyone on the island. He harvested his wheat, the first batch on November 25th, and had everything collected by Christmas Day. The total yield of this crop was about two thousand bushels, which could have been higher if it hadn't been affected by the lack of rain during its growth. The first crop of maize (which always has two) was being harvested while the schooner was there, and despite the drought, it ended up being good; from one and a quarter acres, one hundred and six bushels were gathered. However, it was commonly accepted on the island that the average yield of maize per acre was thirty-six bushels.

The superior fertility of the soil at Norfolk Island to that of New South Wales had never been doubted. The following account of last year's crop was transmitted to Lieutenant-governor King:

The better soil fertility at Norfolk Island compared to New South Wales was never questioned. The following report on last year's crop was sent to Lieutenant-Governor King:

From November 1792 to November 1793 the crop of maize amounted to 3247 bushels; wheat 1302 bushels; calavances 50 bushels.

From November 1792 to November 1793, the corn harvest totaled 3,247 bushels; wheat 1,302 bushels; calabash 50 bushels.

Purchased in the above time from settlers and others, at five shillings per bushel 3600 bushels. Reserved by them for seed 3000 bushels of maize; 300 bushels of wheat; 300 bushels of calavances; and 50 tons of potatoes. Which, together with 305 bushels of maize brought from thence with the detachment of the New South Wales corps at the relief in March 1793, made a total of 10,152 bushels of maize, 1602 bushels of wheat, 350 bushels of calavances, 50 tons of potatoes, raised on Norfolk Island in one twelvemonth, on about two hundred and fifty-six acres of ground.

Purchased during the time mentioned above from settlers and others, at five shillings per bushel, 3600 bushels. They reserved 3000 bushels of corn for seed; 300 bushels of wheat; 300 bushels of pumpkins; and 50 tons of potatoes. Together with 305 bushels of corn brought from there with the detachment of the New South Wales corps during the relief in March 1793, this totaled 10,152 bushels of corn, 1602 bushels of wheat, 350 bushels of pumpkins, and 50 tons of potatoes, all grown on Norfolk Island in one year, on about 256 acres of land.

Of this crop, and of what had been purchased, there remained in the public stores, when the schooner left the island, forty-three weeks maize and wheat; in addition to which Lieutenant-governor King supposed he should have of this season's growth, after reserving five hundred bushels of wheat for seed, sufficient of that article for the consumption of six hundred and ninety-nine persons*, the whole number of people victualled there from the stores for fourteen weeks and a half, at the rate of ten pounds per man per week; and fifty-eight weeks maize at twelve pounds per man per week. He had besides, at the established ration, twelve weeks beef, twenty-nine weeks pork, five weeks molasses, and thirty weeks oi1 and sugar. The whole forming an abundance that seemed to place the evil hour of want and distress at too great a distance to excite much alarm or apprehension of its occurring there.

When the schooner left the island, there were forty-three weeks' worth of maize and wheat left in the public stores from this crop and what was purchased. Lieutenant-governor King estimated that after setting aside five hundred bushels of wheat for seed, there would be enough for the needs of six hundred and ninety-nine people for fourteen and a half weeks, based on a consumption of ten pounds per person each week, along with fifty-eight weeks' worth of maize at twelve pounds per person per week. Additionally, there were twelve weeks' worth of beef, twenty-nine weeks of pork, five weeks of molasses, and thirty weeks of oil and sugar at the established ration. Overall, this provided a plentiful supply that seemed to push the possibility of want and distress far enough away to not cause much worry or concern about it happening.

[* The whole number in the settlement amounted to one thousand and eight persons.]

[* The total number of people in the settlement was one thousand and eight.]

The settlement had been so healthy, that no loss by death had happened since we last heard from them; and when the schooner sailed very few people were sick. There had died, between the 20th of November 1791 (the date of Lieutenant-governor King's return to the command at Norfolk Island) and the 27th of January 1794, only one soldier, forty male convicts, three female convicts, and nineteen children, making a total of sixty-three persons, in two years and sixty-eight days; and ninety-five* children had been born. Every description of stock, except some Cape sheep which did not breed, was equally healthy as the inhabitants, and were increasing fast.

The settlement had been so healthy that there hadn't been any deaths since we last heard from them, and when the schooner set sail, very few people were sick. From November 20, 1791 (the date Lieutenant-Governor King returned to command at Norfolk Island) to January 27, 1794, only one soldier, forty male convicts, three female convicts, and nineteen children had died, totaling sixty-three people in two years and sixty-eight days; and ninety-five* children had been born. Every kind of livestock, except for some Cape sheep that didn't breed, was just as healthy as the residents and was increasing rapidly.

[* By the commissary's books there were, on the 20th of February 1794, two hundred and fifty-four children in the three settlements here. On the 30th of January, by Lieutenant-governor King's return, there were one hundred and forty-eight children at Norfolk; making a total of four hundred and two children here and at Norfolk Island.]

[* According to the commissary's records, on February 20, 1794, there were two hundred and fifty-four children in the three local settlements. As of January 30, based on Lieutenant-governor King's report, there were one hundred and forty-eight children at Norfolk Island; bringing the total to four hundred and two children between here and Norfolk Island.]

On the 22nd of October the Boddingtons and Sugar Cane touched at that island, for the purpose of landing John Cole, a convict who had secreted himself on board the former of these ships. Many articles of comfort were sold among the settlers and others from the Sugar Cane.

On October 22nd, the Boddingtons and Sugar Cane arrived at that island to drop off John Cole, a convict who had hidden himself on the Boddingtons. Many comfort items were sold to the settlers and others from the Sugar Cane.

On the 2nd of the succeeding month Mr. Raven called there in the Britannia, in his way to Bengal, to procure a supply of fresh provisions and vegetables for his people.

On the 2nd of the next month, Mr. Raven stopped by the Britannia on his way to Bengal to get fresh provisions and vegetables for his crew.

The two natives of New Zealand, who had been sent to Mr. King in April last by the Shah Hormuzear, having completed the purpose for which they had been sent thither, by giving such instruction in the process of preparing the flax plant, that even with very bad materials a few hands could manufacture thirty yards of good canvas in a week; and having manifested much anxiety, on the appearance of any ship, to return to their friends and native country, though treated with every attention and kindness that could dispel their fears and conciliate their good opinion; Mr. King thought this a favourable opportunity of gratifying their wishes; and that he might himself be a witness of their not experiencing on the voyage any interruption to the good treatment they had met with from every one while under his care, he determined to accompany them himself. He accordingly giving Mr. Raven the necessary order, embarked on board of the Britannia, with a guard from the New South Wales corps, and sailed for New Zealand on the 9th. Their passage thither was short; for on the fourth day, having rounded the North Cape, the two natives were landed among some of their friends and acquaintance, though not exactly at the district whereat their families and kindred resided (the Bay of islands); and Mr. King returned to Norfolk Island on the 18th, having been ten days on board the Britannia. Captain Nepean, who was proceeding in that ship to Europe by the way of India, remained on shore in the government of Norfolk Island during Mr. King's absence; but, on his return, reimbarked in the Britannia; and on the 20th of the same month she sailed on the further prosecution of her voyage.

The two natives of New Zealand, who had been sent to Mr. King in April by the Shah Hormuzear, completed their mission by teaching the process of preparing the flax plant so that even with poor materials, a few people could produce thirty yards of quality canvas in a week. They expressed a strong desire to go back to their friends and homeland as soon as any ship arrived, despite being treated with care and kindness to ease their worries and win their goodwill. Mr. King saw this as a good chance to fulfill their wishes, and wanting to ensure they continued to receive good treatment on the journey, he decided to accompany them. He gave Mr. Raven the necessary orders, boarded the Britannia with a guard from the New South Wales corps, and set sail for New Zealand on the 9th. The trip was quick; by the fourth day, after rounding North Cape, the two natives were dropped off among some friends and acquaintances, though not exactly in the area where their families lived (the Bay of Islands). Mr. King returned to Norfolk Island on the 18th, having spent ten days on the Britannia. Captain Nepean, who was taking that ship to Europe via India, stayed onshore in the government of Norfolk Island during Mr. King's absence, but re-boarded the Britannia upon Mr. King's return. On the 20th of the same month, the ship continued on her journey.

It was not imagined that this delay in the Britannia's voyage would be of any consequence, as Mr. Raven purposed making what is called the Eastern Passage; that is, between the south end of Mindanao and Borneo; and it was known that the eastern monsoon did not set well in, nor was attended with good weather in those seas before December or January.

It wasn’t expected that the delay in the Britannia's voyage would matter much, as Mr. Raven planned to take what’s known as the Eastern Passage; that is, between the south end of Mindanao and Borneo. It was understood that the eastern monsoon wouldn’t settle in properly, nor would it bring good weather in those seas before December or January.

Mr. King found himself compelled to send by the Francis ten soldiers of the detachment of the New South Wales corps on duty there, under a charge of mutinous behaviour. A jealousy which had grown up between the soldiers and the free men, settlers and others, occasioned by some acts of violence and improper behaviour on either side, broke out in the evening of the 18th of last month, at a place in which the lieutenant-governor had permitted plays to be represented by the convicts, as an innocent recreation after labour. Mr. King, who was present, having thought it necessary to order one of the soldiers into confinement when the play was ended, the detachment repaired to their own commanding-officer, and demanded the release of their comrade. On his declaring his inability to comply with such request, they signified a resolution to release him themselves; upon which the officer remonstrated with them, and they dispersed. It did not appear that they made any attempts to release the prisoner; but on the following morning, when the lieutenant-governor was made acquainted with the above circumstances, he convened all the officers in the settlement, and laid before them what he had heard, together with an account of a determination among the soldiers, to release from the halberts any of their comrades who should be ordered punishment for any offence or injury done to a settler; all of which he had caused to be authenticated upon oath. The result of this meeting was, that the detachment should be disarmed, and that the settlers late of the marines, and Sirius's ship's company, should be embodied and armed as a militia. This resolution was accordingly put in execution on the 21st, by sending the detachment from their quarters unarmed, upon different duties; while the new-raised militia took possession of their arms. On their return, twenty were selected as mutineers to be sent to this place, the remainder returning to their duty immediately, but of that number ten were, after a few days confinement, pardoned and liberated; and two days after Mr. King had restored good order in the settlement the Francis appeared. By her he sent the ten prisoners under a guard of an officer and as many soldiers as the vessel could conveniently receive.

Mr. King felt it necessary to send ten soldiers from the New South Wales corps on duty there aboard the Francis, due to allegations of mutinous behavior. Tensions had been building between the soldiers and the free settlers, stemming from acts of violence and unacceptable conduct on both sides. This conflict escalated on the evening of the 18th of last month, during a performance that the lieutenant-governor had allowed the convicts to put on as a harmless break from their work. Mr. King, who was present, decided to put one soldier in confinement after the play ended. The rest of the detachment went to their commanding officer and demanded that their comrade be released. When he said he couldn’t comply, they made it clear they intended to set him free themselves. The officer argued with them, and they eventually dispersed. It didn’t seem like they attempted to free the prisoner, but the next morning, when the lieutenant-governor learned about what happened, he called a meeting with all the officers in the settlement. He shared everything he had heard, along with reports of the soldiers' intentions to free any comrades who were punished for any offense against a settler; he had gathered this information through sworn statements. The outcome of this meeting was to disarm the detachment and to form the recently discharged settlers from the marines and the crew of Sirius into a militia. This decision was implemented on the 21st, by sending the soldiers out unarmed on various duties while the new militia took control of their weapons. Upon their return, twenty soldiers were chosen as mutineers to be sent here, while the rest immediately resumed their duties. Of that group, ten were pardoned and released after a few days in confinement. Two days after Mr. King reestablished order in the settlement, the Francis arrived. He then sent the ten prisoners with a guard of an officer and as many soldiers as the ship could accommodate.

A court of inquiry, composed of the officers of the regiment present at Sydney, was assembled immediately after the arrival of the Francis, to inquire into the complaint which had accompanied the soldiers from Norfolk Island; when, after five days deliberation, and examination of papers, witnesses, etc. they reported, that the conduct of the soldiers, in disobeying the orders of their officers, was reprehensible; but, on considering the provocations which had given birth to that disobedience. they recommended them to their commanding officer's clemency.

A court of inquiry made up of the officers of the regiment present in Sydney was formed right after the arrival of the Francis to look into the complaint that had come with the soldiers from Norfolk Island. After five days of deliberation and examining documents, witnesses, and so on, they reported that the soldiers' behavior in disobeying their officers' orders was unacceptable; however, taking into account the provocations that led to that disobedience, they suggested that their commanding officer show them leniency.

On the 27th the schooner sailed a second time for Norfolk Island, for the purpose of conveying two officers of the New South Wales corps, and some non-commissioned officers and privates, in lieu of those who had been sent hither, and without whom the detachment on duty there would have been too much weakened.

On the 27th, the schooner set sail again for Norfolk Island to take two officers from the New South Wales corps, along with some non-commissioned officers and privates, to replace those who had been sent here, as the detachment on duty there would have been too weakened without them.

The natives were again troublesome this month. Two several accounts were sent down from Parramatta, of their having attacked, robbed, and beaten some of the settlers' wives who were repassing between their farms and Parramatta; and great quantities of corn continued to be stolen by them. One of these women (married to Trace, a settler at the foot of Prospect Hill) was so severely wounded by a party who robbed and stripped her of some of her wearing apparel, that she lay for a long time dangerously ill at the hospital. It was said, that the people who committed this and other acts of violence and cruelty were occasional visitors with others at Sydney. Could their persons have been properly identified, the lieutenant-governor would have taken serious notice of the offenders.

The locals were a problem again this month. There were multiple reports from Parramatta about them attacking, robbing, and assaulting some of the settlers' wives who were traveling between their farms and Parramatta; and they continued to steal a large amount of corn. One of these women (married to Trace, a settler at the foot of Prospect Hill) was so badly injured by a group that robbed and stripped her of some of her clothes that she was dangerously ill in the hospital for a long time. It was said that those responsible for this and other acts of violence and cruelty were occasional visitors with others in Sydney. If their identities could have been properly confirmed, the lieutenant-governor would have taken serious action against the offenders.

Notwithstanding the woods were infested by these people, numbers of the male convicts, idle, and dreading labour as a greater evil than the risk of being murdered, absented from the new settlements, and, after wandering about for a few days, got at length to Sydney almost naked, and so nearly starved, that in most cases humanity interfered between them and the punishment which they merited. They in general pleaded the insufficiency of the present ration to support a labouring man; but it was well known that the labour required was infinitely short of what might have been justly exacted from them, even had the ration been much less. They mostly wrought by tasks, which were so proportioned to their situation, that after the hour of ten in the forenoon their time was left at their own disposal; and many found employment from settlers and other individuals who had the means of paying them for their labour. At this period, it was true, the labouring convict was menaced with the probability of suffering greater want than had ever been before experienced in the settlement. On Saturday the 22nd (the last provision-day in this month) there remained in store a quantity of salt meat only sufficient for the inhabitants until the middle of the second week in the next month, at which time there would not be an ounce of provisions left, if some supplies did not arrive before that period. But even this situation, bad as it certainly was, was still alleviated by the assistance that the officers, settlers, and others were able to afford to those whom they either retained in their service or occasionally hired for labour as they wanted them. Some who were off the store, and who well remembered their own distresses in the years 1789 and 1791, declared, that with a little industry, and being allowed the indulgence of going out in a boat, they could, even at this time, earn a better subsistence than if they were employed by Government, and fed from a full store. Nothing was lost; even the shark was found to be a certain supply; the oil which was procured from the liver was sold at one shilling the quart, and but very few houses in the colony were fortunate enough to enjoy the pleasant light of a candle.

Despite the fact that the woods were overrun by these people, many of the male convicts, lazy and fearing labor more than the risk of being killed, stayed away from the new settlements. After wandering for a few days, they eventually reached Sydney almost naked and nearly starving, so that in most cases, compassion intervened between them and the punishment they deserved. They often claimed that the current ration was insufficient to support a working man; however, it was well-known that the labor demanded was far less than what could have been justly required from them, even if the rations had been much lower. They mostly worked by tasks that were set according to their circumstances, allowing them to have the rest of their time free after ten o'clock in the morning. Many found work with settlers and others who were able to pay them for their labor. At this time, it was true that the laboring convict faced the likelihood of suffering more than ever before in the settlement. On Saturday the 22nd (the last provision day of the month), there was only enough salt meat left to feed the inhabitants until the middle of the second week of the next month, at which point there would not be a single ounce of food left if new supplies did not arrive beforehand. Yet even this dire situation, as bad as it was, was somewhat eased by the help that the officers, settlers, and others could provide to those they either employed or occasionally hired for work as needed. Some who were off the government supply, who still remembered their hardships from 1789 and 1791, asserted that with a bit of effort and the chance to go out in a boat, they could, even now, earn a better living than if they were working for the government and being fed from a stocked store. Nothing went to waste; even sharks proved to be a reliable source of food. The oil obtained from their livers was sold for one shilling per quart, and very few houses in the colony were lucky enough to enjoy the warm glow of a candle.

The seed-wheat as yet escaped, and might remain untouched for another fortnight. The Indian corn was ripening; and it was hoped, that by making some little deduction from the wheat, it would be ready in time to save all the seed that had been reserved for the next season. To lose the seed-wheat would be to repel every advance which had been made toward supporting ourselves, and to crush every hope of independence. All that had been done in cultivation, every acre which was preparing for the ensuing crop, would long have remained a memorial of our distress; and where existed the mind that could have returned to the labour of the field with that cheerful spirit or energy that would have been necessary to ensure future success?

The seed wheat had not yet been harvested and could stay untouched for another two weeks. The corn was maturing, and there was hope that by slightly reducing the wheat yield, it would be ready in time to save all the seed set aside for the next season. Losing the seed wheat would undo all the progress we made toward self-sufficiency and destroy any hope for independence. Everything we had worked on in farming, every acre prepared for the upcoming crop, would have long been a reminder of our struggles; and who could go back to working the fields with the positive attitude or energy needed for future success?

The watch at Parramatta, under the direction of Barrington the constable, ever on the look-out for the murderers of Lewis, detected a man of bad character in offering a dollar in payment for some article that he had purchased, and which dollar appeared to have been buried in the ground. He had been taken up before, and on searching him at that time was not in possession of any money. As nothing more, however, than this circumstance was adduced against him, he was discharged, it being admitted that he might have earned something since that time by his labour.

The watch at Parramatta, led by Constable Barrington, who was always on the lookout for Lewis's murderers, spotted a suspicious man trying to pay for something with a dollar that seemed to have been buried in the ground. This man had been arrested before, and when he was searched back then, he had no money on him. However, since the only evidence against him was this situation, he was released, as it was acknowledged that he might have earned some money through work since that time.

The foundation of a second barrack for soldiers at Sydney was begun in the latter part of this month; and Baughan's mill-house was covered in with tiles.

The construction of a second barrack for soldiers in Sydney started in the latter part of this month, and Baughan's mill-house was roofed with tiles.

Mutton was this month sold for one shilling and nine-pence per pound. The Bengal sheep, by crossing the breed with the Cape ram, were found to improve considerably in appearance and size.

Mutton was sold this month for one shilling and nine pence per pound. The Bengal sheep, by mixing the breed with the Cape ram, were found to improve significantly in looks and size.

CHAPTER XXV

Alarming State of the Provisions
The William arrives with supplies from England, and the Arthur comes from Bengal
The love for one's country is natural to people everywhere
Information
Mr. Bampton
Captain Bligh
Admiral Barrington transport lost
Full rations issued
Ingratitude and rightful punishment of the settlers
Buffin's corn mill starts operating
Gambling
Honesty of a local
The Daedalus arrives from America
Information
Female infidelity and its repercussions
The Arthur sets sail
The Francis returns from Norfolk Island
A boat stolen
Natives killed
A new mill
Disorder in the eyes widespread

March.] To save as much of the seed-wheat as possible, a deduction of two pounds was made in the allowance of that article which was served to the convicts on Saturday the first of the month. The provision-store was never in so reduced a state as at this time; one serving of salt-meat alone remained, and that was to be the food of only half a week. After that period, the prospect, unless we were speedily relieved, was miserable; mere bread and water appeared to be the portion of by far the greater part of the inhabitants of these settlements, of that part too whose bodily labour must be called forth to restore plenty, and attain such a state of independence on the parent country as would render delay or accident in the transport of supplies a matter of much less moment to the colony than it had ever hitherto been considered.

March.] To save as much seed wheat as possible, a deduction of two pounds was made in the allowance of that item which was given to the convicts on Saturday, the first of the month. The supply store was never in such a reduced state as it was at this time; only one serving of salt meat remained, and it was meant to last for just half a week. After that period, the outlook, unless we were quickly relieved, was bleak; just bread and water seemed to be the only food for most of the people in these settlements, especially for those whose physical labor was needed to restore abundance and achieve a level of independence from the parent country that would make delays or accidents in supply transport much less critical to the colony than it had ever been before.

As at this time the stock of swine in the possession of individuals was rather considerable, some saving of the salt provisions, it was thought, might be made, by purchasing a quantity sufficient to issue to the military at the rate of four pounds and a half to each man for the week, in lieu of the three pounds of salt meat. A quantity was therefore purchased by the commissary and issued in the above proportion, the soldiers receiving the fresh instead of the salt provisions (to which latter they must have given the preference, being able to make them go the farthest) with that cheerfulness which at all times marked their conduct when compliance with any wish of their commanding-officer was the question.

Since there were quite a few pigs owned by individuals at this time, it was thought that some savings on salt provisions might be achieved by buying enough to provide the military with four and a half pounds per soldier for the week instead of the usual three pounds of salt meat. Therefore, the commissary purchased a quantity and distributed it as planned, with soldiers receiving fresh provisions instead of salt ones (which they would have preferred, as they could stretch those further) and showing the same cheerfulness as always when fulfilling any request from their commanding officer.

Both public and private stock appeared to be threatened with destruction. The sheep and goats in the colony were not numbered far within one thousand. The cows had increased that species of stock by thirteen calves, which were produced in the last year. The exact number of hogs was not, nor could it well be ascertained; it must, however, have been considerable, as every industrious convict had been able to keep one or more breeding sows. All this wore, indeed, the appearance of a resource; yet what would it all have been (admitting that an equal partition had been made) when distributed among upwards of three thousand people? But an equal partition of private stock, as most of this was such, could not have been expected. The officers holding this stock in their own hands would certainly take care to keep it there, and from it would naturally supply their own people. How far, in an hour of such distress, the convicts would have sat quietly down on their return from labouring in the field to their scanty portion of bread and water, and looked patiently on while others were keeping want and hunger at a distance by the daily enjoyment of a comfortable meal of fresh viands? was a question with many who thought of their situation.

Both public and private livestock seemed to be at risk of being destroyed. The sheep and goats in the colony numbered less than a thousand. The cows had increased by thirteen calves over the last year. The exact number of pigs was uncertain, but it must have been significant since every hardworking convict could keep one or more breeding sows. This all looked like a resource; however, what would it have amounted to (assuming it was divided equally) among over three thousand people? An equal division of private stock, most of which was, couldn't have been expected. The officers holding this stock would definitely want to keep it, and naturally supply their own people. How much, in a time of such hardship, the convicts would have quietly sat down after working in the fields to their meager portions of bread and water, watching others fend off hunger with enjoyable meals of fresh food? This was a concern for many who considered their situation.

Happily, however, for all descriptions of people, they were not this time to be put to the trial.

Happily, though, for all the descriptions of people, they weren’t going to be put to the test this time.

On Saturday the 8th, at the critical moment when the doors of the provision-store had closed, and the convicts had received their last allowance of the salt provisions which remained, the signal for a sail was made at the South Head. We expected a ship from India in pursuance of the contract entered into with Mr. Bampton, who had been absent from us nearly eleven months. We also looked daily for the return of the Daedalus. We hoped for a ship from England. But whence the ship came for which the signal had been made was to remain for some time unknown. One boat alone, with an officer, went down; (in compliance with an order which had some days before been given to that purpose;) and on its return at night we were told that a ship with English colours flying had stood into the harbour as far as Middle-head; but meeting with a heavy squall of wind at south, in which she split her fore-top-sail, was compelled again to put to sea. It was conjectured that she was a stranger; for if any person on board her had had any knowledge of the harbour, she might have been run with much ease from the Middle-head into safety in Spring-cove. The officer who went down (Captain Johnston) unfortunately could not board her, such a sea ran within the Heads; and the wind blew with so much violence as to render any attempt to get near her extremely dangerous.

On Saturday the 8th, right when the doors of the supply store closed and the convicts received their last rations of the remaining salt provisions, a signal for a sail was given at South Head. We were expecting a ship from India based on the contract made with Mr. Bampton, who had been away for almost eleven months. We also anticipated the return of the Daedalus. We hoped for a ship from England, but the origin of the ship that the signal indicated remained a mystery for a while. Only one boat, with an officer, went down (following an order that had been issued a few days earlier); and when it returned at night, we were informed that a ship with English colors had entered the harbor as far as Middle Head. However, after encountering a strong wind squall from the south that tore her fore-top-sail, she was forced to head back out to sea. It was speculated that she was unfamiliar with the area; if anyone on board had known the harbor, they could have easily navigated her from Middle Head to safety in Spring Cove. Unfortunately, the officer who went down (Captain Johnston) could not board her due to the rough seas in the Heads, and the wind was blowing so violently that any attempt to approach her would have been extremely dangerous.

At night the wind increased with much rain, and morning was anxiously looked for, to tell us where and who the stranger was. Nothing more however was known of her during that day (Sunday), the same causes as those of the preceding day operating against our receiving any other information, than that she was to be seen from the flagstaff, whence in the evening word was brought up over land, that another vessel, a brig, was in sight.

At night, the wind picked up along with heavy rain, and everyone anxiously awaited morning to reveal where the stranger was from and who she was. However, nothing more was learned about her that day (Sunday) due to the same circumstances as the day before, leaving us with no additional information except that she could be seen from the flagstaff. In the evening, we received word over land that another ship, a brig, was in sight.

Anxiety and curiosity, now strained to the utmost, were obliged to wait the passing of another night; but about three o'clock on Monday the 10th, the wind and weather having both changed, to our great satisfaction we saw the ship William, Mr. William Folger of London master, anchor safely in the cove. With her also came up the Arthur, a small brig of about ninety-five tons, from Bengal.

Anxiety and curiosity, now pushed to the limit, had to wait through another night; but around three o'clock on Monday the 10th, as the wind and weather both changed, we were pleased to see the ship William, captained by Mr. William Folger from London, safely anchor in the cove. Along with her came the Arthur, a small brig weighing about ninety-five tons, from Bengal.

The William, we found, had sailed from the river Thames on the first of July last, whence she proceeded to Cork, where she took on board a cargo of beef and pork for this colony*; but had not an ounce of flour. She left Ireland on the 20th of September, having waited some weeks for a convoy, (the war with France in which England was engaged having rendered the protection of some of his Majesty's ships necessary,) and made her passage to this country by the route of Rio de Janeiro. She arrived at that port on the 22nd day of November; left it the third of the following month; and made Van Dieman's Land on the second of this month. Mr. Folger reported, that his weather from the American coast to this port had been in general good.

The William set sail from the River Thames on July 1st and then went to Cork, where it loaded a shipment of beef and pork for this colony*; however, it had no flour at all. It left Ireland on September 20th after waiting several weeks for a convoy (due to the war with France, which made the protection of some of His Majesty's ships necessary) and took the route through Rio de Janeiro to reach this country. It arrived at that port on November 22nd, left on the third of the following month, and reached Van Diemen's Land on the second of this month. Mr. Folger reported that the weather from the American coast to this port had generally been good.

[* She had likewise on board a machine for dressing flour; a small quantity of iron; two pairs of millstones and some tools for the smiths; all which were received in the river.]

[* She also had on board a machine for milling flour, a small amount of iron, two sets of millstones, and some tools for the blacksmiths; all of which were received in the river.]

We learned that Governor Phillip reached England in the Atlantic on the 21st of May last. That ship (which it may be remembered sailed from this place on the 11th of December 1792) passed Cape Horn on the 17th of the following January; anchored at Rio de Janeiro on the 7th of February; and sailed thence on the 4th of March; arriving in the channel without any interruption, save what was given by a French privateer which chased her when within forty-eight hours sail of the land. The natives Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie were well, but not sufficiently divested of the genuine, natural love for liberty and their native country, to prefer London with its pleasures and its abundance to the woods of New South Wales. They requested that their wives might be taught to expect their return in the course of this year. Had it been possible to eradicate in any breast that love for the place of our birth, or where we have lived and grown from infancy to manhood, which is implanted in us by the kind hand of Nature, it surely would have been effected on two natives of New Holland, whose country did not possess a single charm in the eye even of a savage inhabitant of New Zealand.* But we now found that in every breast that sentiment is the same; and that a love for our native country is not the result of her being the seat of arts and arms; the residence of worth, beauty, truth, justice; of all the virtues that adorn and dignify human nature; and of all the pleasures and enjoyments that render life valuable; but that it can be excited even in a land where wretchedness, want, and ignorance have laid their iron hands on the inhabitants, and marked with misery all their days and nights.

We learned that Governor Phillip returned to England on the Atlantic on May 21st. That ship (which, as you may recall, left this place on December 11, 1792) passed Cape Horn on January 17 of the next year; anchored at Rio de Janeiro on February 7; and set sail again on March 4, arriving in the channel without interruption, aside from being chased by a French privateer when she was about forty-eight hours away from land. The natives Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie were doing well, but they still had a strong, natural love for their freedom and homeland, which made them prefer the woods of New South Wales over the pleasures and abundance of London. They requested that their wives be prepared for their return later this year. If it were possible to erase that love for our birthplace or the place where we've lived and grown from childhood to adulthood—something instilled in us by the nurturing hand of Nature—it surely would have happened to these two natives of New Holland, whose land held no charm even for a savage inhabitant of New Zealand.* But we now realized that this sentiment is universal; that love for our homeland doesn't stem from it being a center of arts and military might, a place of worth, beauty, truth, and justice, or of all the virtues that uplift and honor human nature, nor from the pleasures and enjoyments that make life worthwhile. It can even arise in a land where suffering, hardship, and ignorance have gripped the people, casting a shadow of misery over all their days and nights.

[* The New Zealanders who were brought hither in the Daedalus in April last expressed both here and at Norfolk Island the utmost abhorrence of this country and its inhabitants.]

[* The New Zealanders who were brought here on the Daedalus last April expressed their complete disgust for this country and its people, both here and at Norfolk Island.]

In the William arrived an assistant-chaplain, the Rev. Mr. Marsden, to divide the religious duties of the colony with Mr. Johnson.

In the William, an assistant chaplain, the Rev. Mr. Marsden, arrived to share the religious responsibilities of the colony with Mr. Johnson.

Had it been known on the evening of the 8th, when the report was received that the ship had been blown out to sea, that she contained so valuable a cargo as four months beef and pork (eleven hundred and seventy-three barrels of the former, and nine hundred and seven of the latter) at the full ration, how would our anxiety have been increased upon her account, particularly as it still lived in our remembrance, that the Justinian with a similar cargo, after making the North of this harbour, was blown off to the Northward, was three weeks before she regained the port, and was once within that time nearly lost in a heavy gale of wind! Had the William been blown off the coast for three weeks, how deeply would distress have been felt in these settlements!

Had it been known on the evening of the 8th, when the report came in that the ship had been blown out to sea, that she carried such a valuable cargo as four months' worth of beef and pork (1,173 barrels of the former, and 907 of the latter) at full rations, our worry about her would have skyrocketed. Especially since we still remembered that the Justinian, with a similar load, was blown off to the north after leaving this harbor and took three weeks to get back, during which she nearly sank in a fierce storm! If the William had been off the coast for three weeks, the distress in these communities would have been profound!

The brig from Bengal had on board a small quantity of beef and pork; some sugar, Bengal rum, and coarse callicoes.

The brig from Bengal was carrying a small amount of beef and pork; some sugar, Bengal rum, and rough calicoes.

To the great surprise and regret of every one, it was heard from Mr. Barber the master, that at the time of his departure from Calcutta, no accounts had been received of the arrival of Mr. Bampton in any port in India.

To everyone's great surprise and disappointment, Mr. Barber, the master, announced that when he left Calcutta, there had been no reports of Mr. Bampton arriving at any port in India.

As well at his departure from Norfolk Island, as when he quitted this place, he had expressed his resolution of attempting a passage between this country and New Guinea, in the hope of being, if successful, the first to establish a fact that would be attended with singular advantages to his Majesty's settlements in this part of the world.

At his departure from Norfolk Island, as well as when he left this place, he made it clear that he intended to try to find a route between this country and New Guinea, hoping that if he succeeded, he would be the first to establish a fact that would bring significant benefits to the King’s colonies in this region of the world.

Captain Bligh, of the happy conclusion of whose second voyage for the bread fruit we now heard by the William, was particularly instructed to survey the straits which separate New Holland from New Guinea. By the accounts of this voyage which reached us, we found that the two ships Providence and Assistance were twenty days from their entrance into the strait to their finding themselves again in an open sea. The navigation through this passage was described as the most dangerous ever performed by any navigator, abounding in every direction with islands, breakers, and shoals, through which they pursued their course with the utmost difficulty. In one day, on anchoring to avoid danger, the Providence broke two of her anchors; and as the eastern monsoon was blowing, (the month of September 1792,) and the passage which they were exploring was extremely narrow, it became impossible to beat back. From some of the islands, eight canoes formed the daring attempt of attacking the armed tender, and with their arrows killed one and wounded two of the seamen. Some of these canoes were sixty or seventy feet long, and in one of them twenty-two persons were counted.

Captain Bligh, whose second voyage to collect breadfruit recently reached a happy conclusion as reported by the William, was specifically instructed to survey the straits that separate New Holland from New Guinea. According to accounts from this voyage, the two ships Providence and Assistance took twenty days to travel from their entrance into the strait to finding themselves back in open sea. The navigation through this passage was described as the most dangerous ever attempted by any navigator, filled in every direction with islands, reefs, and shallow areas, which they navigated with great difficulty. On one day, while anchoring to avoid danger, the Providence lost two of her anchors; and since the eastern monsoon was blowing (in September 1792), and the passage they were exploring was extremely narrow, it became impossible to turn back. From some of the islands, eight canoes made the bold attempt to attack the armed tender, using arrows that killed one and wounded two of the sailors. Some of these canoes were sixty or seventy feet long, and in one of them, twenty-two people were counted.

This account excited many apprehensions for Mr. Bampton's safety. On taking his leave of Lieutenant-governor King, he assured him that he hoped to see Norfolk Island again in November, expecting to be here early in the month of October. It was known that he had on board some articles of merchandise which he meant to dispose of at Batavia; but by accounts received at Calcutta from that place a very short time before the Arthur sailed, he had not touched at that port. It was therefore more than probable, that both the Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield had been wrecked on some of the shoals with which the strait abounded, and that their officers and people, taking to their long-boats, had fallen sacrifices to the natives who had attacked the Assistance, by whose guns many had been wounded in their attempt to carry that vessel.

This account raised many concerns about Mr. Bampton's safety. When he took his leave of Lieutenant-governor King, he assured him that he hoped to see Norfolk Island again in November, expecting to be there early in October. It was known that he had some merchandise on board that he planned to sell in Batavia; however, reports received in Calcutta right before the Arthur sailed indicated that he hadn't stopped at that port. It was therefore likely that both the Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield had wrecked on some of the shoals in the strait, and that their officers and crew, using their long-boats, had fallen victim to the natives who attacked the Assistance, resulting in many being wounded by its guns during their attempt to board the vessel.

To the disappointment which the colony sustained from the failure of the contract already mentioned for cattle and provisions which were to have been brought hither by Mr. Bampton, was added the regret which every thinking being among us felt on contemplating the calamitous moments that had, in all probability, brought destruction on so many of our fellow-creatures.

To the disappointment the colony felt from the failed contract for cattle and supplies that Mr. Bampton was supposed to bring here, was added the sorrow that everyone among us experienced when reflecting on the disastrous events that likely led to the suffering of so many of our fellow beings.

Mr. Barber also informed us, that Captain Patrickson, who was here in the Philadelphia brig in October 1792, had purchased or hired a large ship, on board of which he had actually put a quantity of provisions and other articles, with which he designed to return to this country; but under some apprehension that his cargo might possibly not be purchased, he gave up the intention, and when the Arthur sailed was left proceeding to Europe under Imperial colours.

Mr. Barber also told us that Captain Patrickson, who was here on the Philadelphia brig in October 1792, had bought or rented a large ship. He had actually loaded it with a lot of supplies and other items, planning to return to this country. However, because he was worried that his cargo might not sell, he decided against it. So, when the Arthur set sail, he was left heading to Europe under Imperial colors.

The Government of Bengal too had advertised for terms to freight a vessel for this country with cattle and provisions; but were diverted from the design by the equipment of the armaments which it was necessary to enter into at that time.

The Government of Bengal also put out ads for terms to ship a vessel to this country carrying cattle and supplies; however, they were sidetracked from this plan due to the need to focus on the armaments that were necessary at that time.

Thus had the infant colony of New South Wales still been doomed to be the sport of contingency, the jarring interests of men co-operating with the dangers of the sea to throw obstacles in the way of that long-desired independence which would free the mother country from a heavy expense, and would deliver the colonists from the constant apprehension under which they laboured, of being one day left to seek their subsistence among the woods of the country, or along the shores of its coast*.

Thus, the young colony of New South Wales was still at the mercy of chance, with conflicting interests of people working against them and the perils of the sea creating challenges to achieving the long-awaited independence that would relieve the mother country of its heavy financial burden and release the colonists from the ongoing fear of one day having to find their own food in the wilderness or along the coast.

[* It had been proposed, on the account reaching Bengal of the loss of his Majesty's ship Guardian, to raise by subscription a sum sufficient to purchase and freight a ship with provisions to this country; but, from some accident or other, this benevolent purpose was never put in execution.]

[* It was suggested, after the news reached Bengal about the loss of his Majesty's ship Guardian, to raise funds through subscriptions to buy and send a ship with supplies to this country; however, due to various circumstances, this charitable effort was never carried out.]

The report of the probable loss of the Admiral Barrington transport which was received here in February 1793, was now confirmed. It appeared, that after sailing from Batavia she reached so near her port as to be in sight of the shipping at Bombay, but was driven off the coast by a gale of wind, in which she was forced on shore on one of the Malouine Islands, where she was wrecked, and her crew (the master, chief mate, and surgeon excepted) were murdered by the natives. These people saved themselves by swimming to an East-India country ship which was riding at anchor near the island.

The report of the likely loss of the Admiral Barrington transport, received here in February 1793, has now been confirmed. It appears that after leaving Batavia, it got close enough to Bombay to see the ships there, but was driven off course by a strong wind and ended up wrecked on one of the Malouine Islands. The crew, except for the captain, chief mate, and surgeon, were killed by the locals. Those who survived managed to swim to an East India trading ship that was anchored nearby.

The sight of two vessels at anchor in the cove laden with provisions gave at this time greater satisfaction than had been known on any other arrival; for never before had the colony verged so near to the point of being without a pound of salt provisions. On Monday the 10th (the issuing-day to the civil and military), when all were served their provisions, there remained only eighteen hundred and three pounds of salt meat in store; and even this quantity had been saved by issuing fresh pork to the non-commissioned officers and men of the regiment on the two last serving-days*.

The sight of two ships anchored in the cove, loaded with supplies, brought more satisfaction than any previous arrival; never before had the colony come so close to running out of salt provisions. On Monday the 10th (the day provisions were distributed to both the civil and military), after everyone received their rations, only eighteen hundred and three pounds of salt meat remained in storage; and this amount had been preserved by giving fresh pork to the non-commissioned officers and men of the regiment on the last two serving days*.

[* Saved on the 3rd and 10th of March by issuing fresh pork to the non-commissioned officers and privates of the New South Wales corps, their wives and children, 1803 lbs
There were issued to the above people, fresh pork, 5099 lbs
The hogs that were purchased on this occasion from individuals cost government the sum of £254 19s 6d]

[* Saved on March 3rd and 10th by providing fresh pork to the non-commissioned officers and privates of the New South Wales corps, along with their wives and children, 1803 lbs
A total of 5099 lbs of fresh pork was distributed to the individuals mentioned above.
The pigs purchased during this period cost the government a total of £254.97.

In consequence of these fortunate arrivals, the full ration of salt meat was ordered to be issued; and as soon as part of the cargo was got on shore from the storeship, the deficiency on the last serving days was completed to the full allowance. The last of the wheat was served on the 17th (a proper quantity being reserved for seed) and on the next provision-day ten pounds of Indian corn were substituted instead of the allowance of wheat. Nothing but dire necessity could have induced the gathering and issuing this article in its present unripened state, the whole of it being soft, full of juice, and wholly unfit to grind. Had the settlers, with only a common share of honesty, returned the wheat which they had received from Government to sow their grounds the last season, the reproach which they drew upon themselves, by not stepping forward at this moment to assist Government, would not have been incurred; but though, to an individual, they all knew the anxiety which every one felt for the preservation of the seed-wheat, yet when applied to, and told (in addition to the sum of ten shillings per bushel) that any quantity which they might choose to put into the store should be brought from their farms without any expence of carriage to them, they all, or nearly all, pleaded an insufficiency to crop their ground for the ensuing season; a plea that was well known to be made without a shadow of truth. In consequence of this refusal, for their excuses amounted to as much, the lieutenant-governor directed all those settlers*, whose limited time** for being victualled from the public stores had expired, to be struck off the provision list, and left to provide for themselves, a very just punishment for their ingratitude; for some had been fed and supplied from the colonial stores for more than twelve months beyond the time prescribed for them when they were settled. This indulgence had been continued to them from quarter to quarter on account of bad crops, unfavourable seasons, and the reduced ration, with which all of them, more or less, had had to struggle; and every accommodation had constantly been afforded them which was consistent with the situation of the colony. It was, however, now seen, that they were not the description of settlers from whom, whatever indulgences they might receive, Government had any assistance to expect; their principal object was their own immediate interest; and to serve that, they would forget every claim which the public had upon them.

Due to these fortunate arrivals, the full ration of salt meat was ordered to be issued; and as soon as some of the cargo was unloaded from the storeship, the shortfall from the last serving days was made up to the full allowance. The last of the wheat was distributed on the 17th (a proper amount reserved for seed), and on the next provision day, ten pounds of Indian corn were given instead of the wheat allowance. Only extreme necessity could justify collecting and distributing this item in its current unripe state, as it was entirely soft, full of juice, and completely unsuitable for grinding. Had the settlers returned the wheat they received from the government to sow their fields last season, the disgrace they brought upon themselves by failing to assist the government at this time would not have been incurred. However, even though each individual knew the anxiety felt for preserving the seed wheat, when asked to contribute (on top of the ten shillings per bushel) any amount they wanted to put into the store without any transportation costs, nearly all of them claimed they didn’t have enough to plant their fields for the upcoming season; a claim that was obviously untrue. As a result of this refusal, which amounted to little more than excuses, the lieutenant-governor ordered that all those settlers whose limited time for receiving provisions from the public stores had expired be removed from the provision list and left to fend for themselves, a fair punishment for their ingratitude. Some had been fed and supported from the colonial stores for more than twelve months beyond the time originally set for them when they settled. This leniency had continued from quarter to quarter because of poor crops, unfavorable seasons, and the reduced rations that everyone had to deal with to some extent; and every assistance consistent with the colony's situation had been provided. It was now clear, however, that they were not the kind of settlers from whom the government could expect any help, regardless of what indulgences they received; their main focus was their own immediate benefit, and to pursue that, they would dismiss any obligations they had to the public.

[* Sixty-three in number]

[* Sixty-three total]

[** Eighteen months]

[** 18 months]

The small cargo of salt provisions brought by the brig from Bengal was purchased on account of Government for £307 16s; the beef at five-pence and the pork at eight-pence per pound; the remainder of her cargo was purchased by the officers of the civil and military departments. The cargo of the William, which arrived in very good order, was all landed, and the ship cleared and discharged from Government employ on the 28th.

The small shipment of salt provisions brought by the brig from Bengal was bought on behalf of the Government for £307 16s; the beef was priced at five pence and the pork at eight pence per pound; the rest of the cargo was bought by the officers from both the civil and military departments. The cargo of the William, which arrived in excellent condition, was fully unloaded, and the ship was cleared and released from Government service on the 28th.

The Rev. Mr. Marsden entered on the duties of his function the first Sunday after his arrival, preaching to the military in a barrack prepared for the occasion in the forenoon, and to the convicts at the church erected by Mr. Johnson in the afternoon.

The Rev. Mr. Marsden began his duties on the first Sunday after he arrived, preaching to the military in a barrack set up for the occasion in the morning, and to the convicts at the church built by Mr. Johnson in the afternoon.

On the day when the William anchored in the cove Buffin's new mill was completed and set to work; and Wilkinson' s was in some forwardness. At first it went rather heavily; but in a few days, with nine men's labour, it ground sixty-three pounds of wheat in seventeen minutes. It must be observed, that not any mill was yet erected in the colony whereat corn was ground for the public, the military as well as the convicts grinding their own grain themselves. Whenever wind or water-mills should be erected, this labour would be saved, and the allowance of wheat or Indian corn be issued ground and dressed.

On the day the William anchored in the cove, Buffin's new mill was finished and up and running; and Wilkinson's was well underway. At first, it operated a bit slowly, but within a few days, with the work of nine men, it ground sixty-three pounds of wheat in seventeen minutes. It should be noted that no mill had been built in the colony for public use, so both the military and the convicts were grinding their own grain. Once wind or water mills were established, this labor would be saved, and the allowance of wheat or corn would be provided pre-ground and ready to use.

The late distress of the colony was not found to have made any amendment in the morals of the convicts. Gaming still prevailed among them in its fullest extent; and a theft which was committed at one of these meetings showed how far it was carried. Among those who made a daily practice of gaming was one who, in his situation as an overseer, had given such offence to some of his fellow-prisoners, that a plan was formed to plunder him the first time that he should have a sum worthy of their attention. He was accordingly surrounded when engaged at play, by a party who, watching their opportunity, rushed upon him when he had won a stake of five-and-twenty dollars, and, in the confusion that ensued, secured the whole. He was, however, fortunate enough to seize one of them, with ten of the dollars in his hand, but was not able to recover any more. The man whom he secured proved to be Samuel Wright, who in the month of July last had been reprieved at the foot of the gallows; so soon had he forgotten the terror of that moment. On this circumstance being reported to the lieutenant-governor, Wright received an immediate corporal punishment.

The recent troubles in the colony didn’t change the behavior of the convicts at all. Gambling was still rampant among them; in fact, a theft that occurred during one of these gatherings showed just how extreme it had become. One of the regular gamblers was an overseer who had offended some of his fellow inmates so much that they plotted to rob him the first time he had a significant amount of money. So, when he was playing, they surrounded him and seized the chance to attack after he won a stake of twenty-five dollars, managing to grab the entire amount in the chaos. He was lucky enough to catch one of them, holding ten of the dollars, but couldn’t get back anything more. The man he caught turned out to be Samuel Wright, who had just been reprieved from the gallows last July; he had clearly forgotten that moment of fear quickly. When the lieutenant-governor heard about this, Wright faced immediate corporal punishment.

McKoy, the overseer, confessed that gaming had been for many years his profession and subsistence, though born of honest and reputable parents; and he acknowledged, that but for his pursuit of that vice he should never have visited this country in the situation of a convict.

McKoy, the supervisor, admitted that gambling had been his job and means of living for many years, even though he came from respectable and upstanding parents. He recognized that if it hadn't been for his addiction to that vice, he would never have come to this country as a convict.

A better principle showed itself shortly after in Ca-ru-ey, a native youth, who, from long residence among us, had contracted some of our distinctions between good and ill. Being fishing one morning in his canoe near the lieutenant-governor's farm, he perceived some convicts gathering and secreting the Indian corn which grew there; and, knowing that acts of that nature were always punished, he instantly came to the settlement, and gave an account of what he had seen, in time to secure the offenders on the spot, with the corn in their possession.

A better principle emerged soon after in Ca-ru-ey, a local young man, who, after living among us for a long time, had picked up some of our ideas about right and wrong. One morning, while fishing in his canoe near the lieutenant-governor's farm, he saw some convicts collecting and hiding the Indian corn that was growing there. Knowing that such actions were always punished, he quickly went back to the settlement and reported what he had seen, just in time to catch the offenders on the spot, with the corn in their hands.

As he made no secret of what he had done, it was apprehended that some revenge might, if they were punished, be levelled at him on a future opportunity, they were therefore pardoned; but Ca-ru-ey was nevertheless applauded and recompensed for his attention and honesty.

As he was open about his actions, it was feared that some form of revenge might be taken against him in the future if he was punished. So, he was pardoned; however, Ca-ru-ey was still praised and rewarded for his attentiveness and integrity.

Among other articles of information received by the William, we were assured, that it had been industriously circulated in England, that there was not in this country either grass for graminivorous animals, or vegetables for the use of man. This report was, however, rather forcibly contradicted by the abundant increase of all descriptions of live stock at this time in the colony, and by the plenty which was to be found in every garden, whether cultivated by the officer or by the convict. A striking instance of this plenty occurred at Parramatta a few days before the arrival of the storeship, when six tons and two hundred weight of potatoes were gathered as the produce of only three quarters of an acre of ground. From the then reduced state of the stores, they were sold for fifty pounds.

Among other information received by the William, we were told that it was being widely claimed in England that there was no grass for grazing animals or vegetables for people in this country. However, this claim was strongly contradicted by the significant growth of all types of livestock at that time in the colony and by the abundance found in every garden, whether tended by an officer or a convict. A notable example of this abundance occurred at Parramatta a few days before the arrival of the storeship when six tons and two hundred pounds of potatoes were harvested from just three-quarters of an acre of land. Due to the reduced state of the stores at that time, they were sold for fifty pounds.

Mutton was sold in this month for one shilling and nine-pence per pound.

Mutton was sold this month for one shilling and nine pence per pound.

April.] in the forenoon of Thursday the 3rd of April, the signal was made at the South Head for a sail, and about four o'clock the Daedalus storeship anchored in the cove from the north-west coast of America; but last from Owhyhee, one of the Sandwich Islands, from which place she sailed on the 8th day of February last.

April. On the morning of Thursday, April 3rd, the signal was sent out from South Head for a ship, and around four o'clock, the Daedalus storeship anchored in the cove after arriving from the northwest coast of America; however, she had last come from Owhyhee, one of the Sandwich Islands, where she set sail on February 8th.

Lieutenant Hanson, on his arrival at Nootka Sound the 8th of last October, found only a letter from Captain Vancouver, directing him to follow the Discovery to another port; between which and Nootka he fortunately met with her and the Chatham, and was afterwards obliged to proceed with them to the Sandwich Islands, before Captain Vancouver could take out of the Daedalus the stores which were consigned to his charge. The harbour of Nootka was still in the hands of the Spaniards, and some jealousy on their part prevented the delivery of the stores from the vessel in any of the Spanish ports on the coast.

Lieutenant Hanson, upon arriving at Nootka Sound on October 8th, found just a letter from Captain Vancouver instructing him to follow the Discovery to another port. Fortunately, he encountered her and the Chatham along the way and was later required to continue with them to the Sandwich Islands, before Captain Vancouver could retrieve the supplies from the Daedalus that were meant for him. The harbor of Nootka was still under Spanish control, and their jealousy hindered the transfer of supplies from the ship at any of the Spanish ports along the coast.

Mr. Hanson was informed, that three natives of Whahoo (the island whereat his predecessor in the Daedalus, Lieutenant Hergest, with the astronomer, Mr. Gootch, and the seaman were killed) had been delivered up by the chief of the island to Captain Vancouver, for the purpose of being offered as an expiatory sacrifice for those murders; and that they were accordingly, after remaining some short time on board the Discovery, taken one by one into a canoe, and put to death alongside that ship by one of their chiefs. A pistol was the instrument made use of on this occasion, which certainly was as extraordinary as unexpected.

Mr. Hanson was informed that three natives of Whahoo (the island where his predecessor in the Daedalus, Lieutenant Hergest, along with the astronomer Mr. Gootch and a seaman, were killed) had been handed over by the island's chief to Captain Vancouver to be offered as a sacrificial atonement for those murders. They were taken aboard the Discovery for a short time and then brought one by one into a canoe, where they were executed by one of their chiefs next to the ship. A pistol was used for this purpose, which was certainly as surprising as it was unusual.

The great accommodation which those islands proved to ships trading on the north-west coast of America rendered it absolutely necessary, that the inhabitants should be made to understand that we never would nor could pass unnoticed an act of such atrocity. With this view Captain Vancouver had demanded of the chief of Whahoo the murderers of Mr. Hergest and his unfortunate companions. It was not supposed that the people sacrificed were the actual perpetrators of these murders; but that an equal number of the natives had been given up as an atonement for the Europeans we had lost.

The great refuge those islands offered to ships trading along the northwest coast of America made it essential for the inhabitants to understand that we would never overlook such a horrific act. To address this, Captain Vancouver had asked the chief of Whahoo for the murderers of Mr. Hergest and his unfortunate companions. It wasn’t believed that the people sacrificed were the actual murderers; rather, an equivalent number of natives were surrendered as a way to atone for the Europeans we had lost.

The native of this country who accompanied Lieutenant Hanson we had the satisfaction of seeing return safe in the Daedalus. He had conducted himself with the greatest propriety during the voyage, readily complying with whatever was required of him, and not incurring, in any one instance, the dislike or ill-will of any person on board the ship. Wherever he went he readily adopted the manners of those about him; and when at Owhyhee, having discovered that favours from the females were to be procured at the easy exchange of a looking-glass, a nail, or a knife, he was not backward in presenting his little offering, and was as well received as any of the white people in the ship. It was noticed too that he always displayed some taste in selecting the object of his attentions. The king of Owhyhee earnestly wished to detain him on the island, making splendid offers to Mr. Hanson, of canoes, warlike instruments, and other curiosities, to purchase him; but if Mr. Hanson had been willing to have left him, Collins would not have consented, being very anxious to return to New South Wales.

The native of this country who traveled with Lieutenant Hanson returned safely on the Daedalus. He behaved impeccably during the voyage, readily doing everything that was asked of him and never earning the dislike or resentment of anyone on board the ship. Wherever he went, he quickly picked up the manners of those around him; and when he was in Owhyhee, he discovered that favors from the women could be easily obtained by exchanging a mirror, a nail, or a knife. He wasn’t shy about making small gifts and was received just as well as any of the white crew members. It was also noted that he showed some taste in choosing whom to give his attention. The king of Owhyhee eagerly wanted to keep him on the island, offering Mr. Hanson impressive deals of canoes, weapons, and other curiosities to buy him; but even if Mr. Hanson had been willing to leave him, Collins wouldn't have agreed, as he was very eager to return to New South Wales.

He did not appear to have acquired much of our language during his excursion; but seemed to comprehend a great deal more than he could find words to express.

He didn’t seem to have picked up much of our language during his trip, but he seemed to understand a lot more than he could say.

On his arrival at Sydney he found his wife, whom he had left in a state of pregnancy, in the possession of another native, a very fine young fellow, who since his coming among us had gone by the name of Wyatt. The circumstance of his return, and the novelty of his appearance, being habited like one of us, and very clean, drew many of his countrymen about him; and among others his rival, and his wife. Wyatt and Collins eyed each other with indignant sullenness, while the poor wife (who had recently been delivered of a female child, which shortly after died) appeared terrified, and as if not knowing which to cling to as her protector, but expecting that she should be the sufferer, whether ascertained to belong to her former or her present husband. A few days, however, determined the point: her travelled husband shivered a spear with Wyatt, who was wounded in the contest, and the wife became the prize of the victor, who, after thus ascertaining his right by arms, seemed indifferent about the reward, and was soon after seen traversing the country in search of another wife.

Upon arriving in Sydney, he found his wife, whom he had left pregnant, with another man, a really handsome young guy who had been called Wyatt since he joined us. The fact that he had returned and looked so different, dressed like us and quite clean, attracted many of his fellow countrymen, including his rival and his wife. Wyatt and Collins shot each other angry looks, while the poor wife (who had recently given birth to a baby girl that sadly passed away shortly after) seemed scared and unsure of whom to turn to for protection, fearing she would be the one to suffer, no matter who was considered her husband. However, a few days later, the situation was resolved: her husband from his travels fought Wyatt, who was wounded in the clash, and the wife became the victor's prize. After proving his claim by fighting, he seemed indifferent about the reward and was soon seen wandering the land looking for a new wife.

Three young gentlemen of the Discovery and Chatham's quarterdecks arrived here in the Daedalus, to procure passages from hence to England. Among them was the Honourable Thomas Pitt, who on his arrival here first learnt the death of his father, the late Lord Camelford.

Three young gentlemen from the Discovery and Chatham quarterdecks arrived here on the Daedalus to get passage to England. One of them was the Honorable Thomas Pitt, who upon arriving here first learned about the death of his father, the late Lord Camelford.

Captain Vancouver not having room for all the provisions which were sent him from the public stores of this settlement, the greatest part of them were returned.

Captain Vancouver didn't have enough space for all the supplies sent to him from the public stores of this settlement, so most of them were sent back.

While the Daedalus was in the morning standing in for the harbour, the Arthur went out, bound to that part of the world from which she was just arrived, the north-west coast of America. Four convicts whose terms of transportation had expired were permitted to quit the colony in her. She also took away the carpenter of the Fairy, American brig, who had been left on shore dangerously ill when Mr. Rogers sailed, but who had perfectly recovered through the great attention and medical assistance which he received at the hospital.

While the Daedalus was docked in the harbor that morning, the Arthur set out, heading back to the north-west coast of America, from where she had just come. Four convicts whose sentences had ended were allowed to leave the colony on her. She also took along the carpenter from the Fairy, an American brig, who had been left ashore seriously ill when Mr. Rogers sailed, but had fully recovered thanks to the excellent care and medical help he received at the hospital.

The day following the arrival of the Daedalus, the Francis schooner returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent five weeks and one day. In her arrived the Rev. Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the New South Wales corps, and Mr. Grimes, the deputy-surveyor of lands, with some few other passengers.

The day after the arrival of the Daedalus, the Francis schooner came back from Norfolk Island, having been away for five weeks and one day. Along with her were Rev. Mr. Bayne, the chaplain of the New South Wales corps, and Mr. Grimes, the deputy-surveyor of lands, along with a few other passengers.

Lieutenant-governor King's second crop of Indian corn had been so productive, that he was enabled to make an offer of sending five thousand bushels of that article to this colony, if required.

Lieutenant Governor King's second crop of corn was so successful that he was able to offer to send five thousand bushels of it to this colony, if needed.

The peace and good order which universally prevailed at Norfolk Island having rendered unnecessary the keeping together the settlers as a militia, they had some time before the arrival of the Francis returned to their several avocations on their respective farms.

The peace and order that existed at Norfolk Island made it unnecessary to keep the settlers together as a militia, so they had returned to their individual work on their farms some time before the arrival of the Francis.

Notwithstanding the ill success which had hitherto attended the endeavours of the Irish convicts stationed at Toongabbie and Parramatta to find a way from this country to China, a few of them were again hardy enough to attempt effecting their escape, and getting thither in a small boat, which they took from a settler, and with which they got out of the harbour in the night of the 12th of this month. They had furnished themselves with some provisions; but the wretchedness of their boat must have ensured to them the same end which certainly befel Tarwood and his companions, particularly as it blew a gale of wind the day succeeding their departure. It was at first imagined that they would be heard of at the Hawkesbury; but there could be little doubt of their having perished.

Despite the previous failures of the Irish convicts based at Toongabbie and Parramatta to find a way from this country to China, a few of them bravely decided to try escaping again. They took a small boat from a settler and managed to leave the harbor on the night of the 12th of this month. They had brought some supplies with them; however, the poor condition of their boat likely meant they would meet the same fate as Tarwood and his companions, especially since a storm hit the day after they left. Initially, people thought they might be found at the Hawkesbury, but it was clear they probably perished.

From the settlement on the banks of that river the best reports continued to be received from time to time: every where the settlers found a rich black mould of several feet depth, and one man had in three months planted and dug a crop of potatoes. The natives, however, had given them such interruption, as induced a necessity for firing upon them, by which, it was said, one man was killed.

From the settlement by that river, the best reports kept coming in every now and then: everywhere the settlers discovered deep, rich black soil, and one person managed to plant and harvest a crop of potatoes in just three months. However, the locals caused enough trouble that they felt the need to shoot at them, resulting in reports of one person being killed.

At Toongabbie, where the Indian corn was growing, their visits and their depredations were so frequent and extensive, that the watchmen stationed for the protection of the corn-grounds were obliged to fire on them, and one party, considerable in number, after having been driven off, returning directly to the plunder, was pursued by the watchmen for several miles, when a contest ensued, in which the natives were worsted, and three were left dead on the spot. The watchmen had so often come in with accounts of this nature, that, apprehensive lest the present transaction should not be credited, they brought in with them, as a testimonial not to be doubted, the head of one of those whom they had slain. With this witness to support them, they told many wonderful circumstances of the pursuit and subsequent fight, which they stated to have taken place at least fourteen miles from the settlement, and to have been very desperately and obstinately sustained on the part of the natives. It was remarked, however, that not one of the watchmen had received the slightest injury, a circumstance that threw a shade over their story, which, but for the production of the head, would have been altogether disbelieved.

At Toongabbie, where the corn was growing, their visits and attacks were so frequent and extensive that the guards assigned to protect the cornfields had to shoot at them. One group, which was fairly large, after being driven off, went straight back to stealing and was chased by the guards for several miles. A fight broke out, and the natives were defeated, leaving three dead on the spot. The guards had reported similar incidents so many times that they worried this latest event would be doubted, so they brought back the head of one of those they had killed as undeniable proof. With this evidence, they shared many incredible details about the chase and the subsequent battle, claiming it happened at least fourteen miles from the settlement and that the natives fought fiercely and stubbornly. However, it was noted that not one of the guards had been hurt, which cast doubt on their story. Without the evidence of the head, their account would likely have been completely disbelieved.

Whatever might have been the truth, it is certain that a party of natives appeared the following day about the corn grounds, but conducted themselves with a great deal of caution, stationing one of their party upon the stump of a tree which commanded an extensive view of the cultivated grounds, and retreating the instant they perceived themselves to be observed.

Whatever the truth may be, it's clear that a group of locals showed up the next day near the cornfields, but they acted very cautiously. They sent one person to stand on a tree stump that overlooked the fields and left as soon as they realized they were being watched.

From the quantities of husks and leaves of corn which were found scattered about the dwelling places of these people, their depredations this season must have been very extensive.

From the amount of corn husks and leaves found scattered around these people's homes, it seems their damage this season must have been quite significant.

At Sydney a large party of natives assembled for the purpose of burning the body of Carradah, the native mentioned in the transactions of the month of December last, by the name of Midjer Bool. He had been put to death while asleep in the night by some people who were inimical to his tribe; and the natives who witnessed the performance of the last rite assured us, that when the murderers should be discovered several severe contests would ensue. It was at this time that the rencounter between Collins and Wyatt took place; and some other points of honour which remained unsettled were then determined, not without much violence and bloodshed, though no one was killed.

At Sydney, a large group of locals gathered to burn the body of Carradah, the native referred to as Midjer Bool in the records from last December. He had been killed in his sleep by some people who were hostile to his tribe, and the locals who witnessed the final ritual assured us that once the murderers were found, several intense fights would follow. It was during this time that the clash between Collins and Wyatt occurred, and some other unresolved matters of honor were settled, although it involved a lot of violence and bloodshed, thankfully without any fatalities.

Cropping the ground with wheat formed the general and most material labour of this month. On the public account nearly four hundred acres were so sown with that essential grain. At this time wheat bore the price of twenty shillings a bushel.

Cropping the land with wheat was the main and most significant task of this month. On the public account, nearly four hundred acres were sown with this essential grain. At this time, wheat was priced at twenty shillings a bushel.

The crops of Indian corn in general turned out very productive. An officer who held an allotment of an hundred acres near Parramatta, from each acre of nineteen, on a light sandy soil, gathered fifty bushels of shelled corn; and a patch of Caffre corn, growing in the like soil, produced the same quantity per acre. This grain had been introduced into our settlement from the Cape of Good Hope by Captain Paterson, and was found to answer well for fattening of stock. No one having attempted to separate the farinaceous part of the grain from the husk, which was of an astringent quality, no judgment had been formed of its utility as a flour; but some who had ground it and mixed the whole together into a paste pronounced it to be equal to any preparation of oatmeal

The Indian corn crops were generally very productive. An officer with a hundred-acre allotment near Parramatta harvested fifty bushels of shelled corn from each of nineteen acres of light sandy soil. A patch of Caffre corn in similar soil produced the same amount per acre. This grain was brought into our settlement from the Cape of Good Hope by Captain Paterson and was found to be effective for fattening livestock. Since no one had tried to separate the starchy part of the grain from the husk, which had an astringent quality, nobody could assess its usefulness as flour. However, some people who ground it and mixed everything into a paste claimed it was just as good as any oatmeal preparation.

Wilkinson's grinding machine was set in motion this month. It was a walking mill, upon a larger construction than that at Parramatta. The diameter of the wheel in which the men walked was twenty-two feet, and it required six people to work it. Those who had been in both mills (this and Buffin's, which was worked by capstan-bars and nine men) gave the preference to the latter; and in a few days it was found to merit it; for, from the variety and number of the wheels in Wilkinson's machinery, something was constantly wrong about it. Finding, after a fair trial, that it was imperfect, it was taken to pieces; and Buffin was employed to replace it by another mill upon the same principle as that which he had himself constructed; and Wilkinson returned to Parramatta.

Wilkinson's grinding machine started up this month. It was a walking mill, built larger than the one in Parramatta. The diameter of the wheel that the men walked on was twenty-two feet, and it needed six people to operate it. Those who had experience with both mills (this one and Buffin's, which was operated by capstan-bars and nine men) preferred the latter; and within a few days, it proved to be the better choice. Because of the complexity and number of wheels in Wilkinson's machinery, there were constant issues with it. After a fair trial revealed its flaws, it was taken apart; Buffin was then hired to replace it with another mill based on the same principle as the one he had built himself, and Wilkinson returned to Parramatta.

An inflammation of the eyes appeared to be a disorder generally prevalent among all descriptions of people at this time. It raged at first among children; but when got into a house, hardly any person in it escaped the complaint. It was accounted for by the variable and unsettled weather which we had during this month.

An eye infection seemed to be a common problem that affected everyone during this time. It initially spread quickly among children, but once it entered a household, almost no one there was able to avoid getting sick. It was attributed to the unpredictable and fluctuating weather we experienced this month.

CHAPTER XXVI

The William sails
Farming
Trip to find a river
A supply ship arrives
Captain Bampton
Full supply
The Britannia, Speedy, and Halcyon arrive
The Indispensable and Halcyon set sail
The Fanny arrives from Bombay
Update
Two prisoners executed
The Hope sets sail

May.] Early in this month the William sailed on her fishing voyage to the coast of Peru. Mr. Folger, her master, purposed trying what success might be met with on this coast for a few weeks, it being the wish of his owners in consequence of the reports brought home by some of the whaling ships which were here in 1792. If he should be at all fortunate, he intended to return to this port with the account; it being the anxious wish of every officer in the colony to hear of any thing that was likely to make a return to the mother country for the immense sums which must annually have been expended on this settlement.

May.] Early this month, the William set sail on her fishing trip to the coast of Peru. Mr. Folger, her captain, planned to test the waters for a few weeks, as his owners were eager to explore this coast due to reports from some whaling ships that had been here in 1792. If he had any luck, he meant to return to this port with the news, as every officer in the colony was anxious to hear about anything that could help bring back some of the huge amounts of money that must have been spent on this settlement each year.

Some dispatches and returns being sent by this ship, it appeared, that here and at Norfolk Island were existing, at the latter end of last month, four thousand four hundred and fourteen persons of all descriptions, men, women, and children. Estimating the daily expense of these at two shillings a head, (a fair calculation, when every article of provisions, clothing, stores, freight of ships, allowance for civil and military establishments, damaged cargoes, etc., etc. was considered,) it will be found to amount annually to the sum of one hundred and sixty-one thousand one hundred and eleven pounds; an expense that called loudly for every exertion toward easing the mother country of such a burden, by doing away our dependence on her for many of the above articles, or by affording a return that would be equal to some part of this expence.

Some reports and returns sent by this ship indicated that there were, at the end of last month, four thousand four hundred and fourteen people of all kinds—men, women, and children—here and at Norfolk Island. Estimating the daily cost of these individuals at two shillings each (a reasonable estimate when considering all the items like food, clothing, supplies, ship freight, support for civil and military services, damaged cargoes, etc.), it turns out to add up to one hundred sixty-one thousand one hundred eleven pounds annually; an expense that strongly emphasized the need for every effort to reduce the burden on the mother country by becoming less dependent on her for many of these items or by generating returns that would match some of these costs.

Separated as we were from Europe, constantly liable to accidents interrupting our supplies, which it might not always be possible to guard against or foresee, how cheering, how grateful was it to every thinking mind among us, to observe the rapid strides we were making toward that desirable independence! The progress made in the cultivation of the country insured the consequent increase of live stock; and it must be remembered, that the colony had been supplied with no other grain than that raised within itself since the 16th day of last December.

Separated from Europe as we were, constantly at risk of accidents disrupting our supplies, which we couldn't always guard against or predict, how uplifting and appreciated it was for every thoughtful person among us to see the quick progress we were making toward that wanted independence! The advancements in farming ensured a corresponding rise in livestock; and we must remember that the colony had received no other grains except those produced within since December 16th of last year.

The permission given to officers to hold lands had operated powerfully in favour of the colony. They were liberal in their employment of people to cultivate those lands; and such had been their exertions, that it appeared by a survey taken in the last month by Mr. Alt, that nine hundred and eighty-two acres had been cleared by them since that permission had been received. Mr. Alt reported, that there had been cleared, since Governor Phillip's departure in December 1792, two thousand nine hundred and sixty-two acres and one quarter; which, added to seventeen hundred and three acres and a half that were cleared at that time, made a total of four thousand six hundred and sixty-five acres and three quarters of cleared ground in this territory. It must be farther remarked in favour of the gentlemen holding ground, that in the short period of fifteen months*, the officers, civil and military, had cleared more than half the whole quantity of ground that had been cleared by government and the settlers, from the establishment of the colony to the date of the governor's departure. The works of government, however vigilantly attended to, always proceeded slowly, and never with that spirit and energy that are created by interest.

The permission given to officers to own land had greatly benefited the colony. They were generous in hiring people to work on these lands; and their efforts had resulted in a survey conducted last month by Mr. Alt, which showed that they had cleared nine hundred and eighty-two acres since receiving that permission. Mr. Alt reported that since Governor Phillip left in December 1792, a total of two thousand nine hundred and sixty-two acres and one quarter had been cleared; when you add this to the seventeen hundred and three acres and a half that were cleared at that time, it totals four thousand six hundred and sixty-five acres and three quarters of cleared land in this territory. It should also be noted that in a short span of fifteen months*, the civil and military officers had cleared more than half the total area that had been cleared by the government and the settlers since the colony was established up to the governor's departure. Government projects, despite being managed diligently, always progressed slowly and lacked the motivation and vigor driven by personal interest.

[* The officers did not begin to open ground until February 1793.]

[* The officers didn't start breaking ground until February 1793.]

The people who were to labour for the public had in general been but scantily fed, and this operated against any great exertions. The settlers were not fed any better; and though they had an interest in working with spirit, yet they always looked to be supplied from the public stores beyond the time allowed them; and were consequently careless, indolent, and poor: while the officer, from the hour he received his grant, applied himself with activity to derive a benefit from it; and it was not too much to say, that the independence of the colony was more likely to be attained through their exertions, than by any other means. To encourage them, therefore, was absolutely necessary to accelerate and promote the prosperity of the colony.

The people who worked for the public were generally underfed, which made it hard for them to put in much effort. The settlers weren't fed any better; even though they had a reason to work hard, they always expected to be given extra supplies from public stores beyond their allotted time, and as a result, they became careless, lazy, and poor. In contrast, the officer, from the moment he received his grant, actively worked to get benefits from it; it was fair to say that the colony's independence was more likely to be achieved through their efforts than by any other means. Therefore, supporting them was essential to speeding up and boosting the colony's prosperity.

One woman and six men, whose terms of transportation had expired, were permitted to quit the colony in the William.

One woman and six men, whose transportation terms had ended, were allowed to leave the colony on the William.

Some natives, who had observed the increasing number of the settlers on the banks of the Hawkesbury, and had learned that we were solicitous to discover other fresh-water rivers, for the purpose of forming settlements, assured us, that at no very great distance from Botany Bay, there was a river of fresh water which ran into the sea. As very little of the coast to the southward was known, it was determined to send a small party in that direction, with provisions for a few days, it not being improbable that, in exploring the country, a river might be found which had hitherto escaped the observation of ships running along the coast.

Some locals, who had noticed the growing number of settlers along the Hawkesbury River and learned that we were eager to find other fresh-water rivers to establish settlements, told us that there was a fresh-water river not far from Botany Bay that flowed into the sea. Since very little of the coastline to the south was known, it was decided to send a small group in that direction with supplies for a few days, as it seemed likely that, in exploring the area, they might discover a river that had not been seen by ships passing along the coast.

Two people of sufficient judgment and discretion for the purpose being found among the military, they set off from the south shore of Botany Bay on the 14th, well armed, and furnished with provisions for a week. They were accompanied by a young man, a native, as a guide, who professed a knowledge of the country, and named the place where the fresh water would be found to run. Great expectations were formed of this excursion, from the confidence with which the native repeatedly asserted the existence of a freshwater river; on the 20th, however, the party returned, with an account, that the native had soon walked beyond his own knowledge of the country, and trusted to them to bring him safe back; that having penetrated about twenty miles to the southward of Botany Bay, they came to a large inlet of the sea, which formed a small harbour; the head of this they rounded, without discovering any river of fresh water near it. The country they described as high and rocky in the neighbourhood of the harbour, which, on afterwards looking into the chart, was supposed to be somewhere about Red Point. The native returned with the soldiers as cheerfully and as well pleased as if he had led them to the banks of the first river in the world.

Two people with enough judgment and discretion for the task were found among the military, so they set off from the south shore of Botany Bay on the 14th, well armed and stocked with provisions for a week. They were joined by a young native man as a guide, who claimed to know the area and indicated where fresh water could be found. Everyone had high hopes for this trip because the native confidently insisted that a freshwater river existed; however, on the 20th, the group returned with the report that the native had quickly ventured beyond his own knowledge of the land and relied on them to bring him back safely. After traveling about twenty miles south of Botany Bay, they came across a large sea inlet that formed a small harbor; they rounded the head of it without finding any nearby freshwater river. The land they described was high and rocky near the harbor, which, upon later checking the chart, was thought to be near Red Point. The native returned with the soldiers as cheerfully and satisfied as if he had led them to the banks of the greatest river in the world.

An excursion of another nature was at this time framing among some discontented Irish convicts, and was on the point of being carried into execution when discovered. Among those who came out in the last ships from Ireland was a convict who had been an attorney in that kingdom, and who was weak enough to form the hazardous scheme with several others of seizing a long-boat, in which they were to endeavour to reach Batavia. A quantity of provisions, water-casks, sails, and other necessary articles, were provided, and were found, at the time of making the discovery, in the house of the principal. These people had much greater reason to rejoice at, than to regret, the discovery of their plot; for the wind, on the day succeeding the night in which they were to have gone off, blew a heavy gale; and, as there were no professed seamen in the party, it was more than probable that the boat would have been lost. The greatest evil that attended these desertions was the loss of the boats which were taken off, for the colony could not sustain much injury by the absence of a few wretches who were too idle to labour, and who must be constantly whispering their own discontents among the other convicts.

A different kind of escape was being planned by some unhappy Irish convicts at this time, and it was just about to be put into action when it got discovered. Among those who arrived on the last ships from Ireland was a convict who had been a lawyer back in that country, and who was foolish enough to join a risky plot with several others to seize a longboat in an attempt to reach Batavia. They had gathered a supply of food, water barrels, sails, and other essential items, which were found in the house of the main conspirator at the time of the discovery. These individuals had much more reason to celebrate than to mourn the revelation of their plan, as the day after the night they intended to make their escape, a strong storm blew in. Since there were no experienced sailors in the group, it was very likely that the boat would have been lost. The biggest downside of these attempted escapes was the loss of the boats that were taken, as the colony could hardly be harmed by the absence of a few lazy individuals who were more inclined to complain about their situation than to work.

On the 24th of this month we had the satisfaction of seeing the Indispensable, a storeship, anchor in the cove from England, with a cargo consisting principally of provisions for the colony. We understood that she was the first of six or seven ships which were all to bring out stores and provisions, and which, if no accident happened in the passage, might be expected to arrive in the course of two months. The supply of clothing and provisions intended to be conveyed by them, together with what had been received by the William, was calculated for the consumption of a twelvemonth. The quantity which now arrived in the Indispensable formed a supply of flour for twelve weeks, beef for four ditto, pork for four ditto, and of peas for fourteen ditto. She sailed from Spithead the 26th of last December, touched at Teneriffe and at the Cape of Good Hope, from which place she sailed on the 30th of March last, and made the South Cape of this country the 17th of this month. Between the Cape of Good Hope and this port, the master stated that he found the weather in general very rough, and the prevailing winds to have blown from WNW to SW.

On the 24th of this month, we were pleased to see the Indispensable, a supply ship, anchor in the cove from England, carrying mostly provisions for the colony. We learned that she was the first of six or seven ships that would all be bringing supplies and provisions, which, barring any accidents on the journey, could be expected to arrive within two months. The clothing and provisions intended to be delivered by them, along with what had already been received from the William, were meant to last for a year. The amount that arrived on the Indispensable included enough flour for twelve weeks, beef for four weeks, pork for four weeks, and peas for fourteen weeks. She left Spithead on December 26th of last year, stopped at Teneriffe and the Cape of Good Hope, from where she set sail on March 30th of this year, and reached the South Cape of this country on the 17th of this month. The captain reported that the weather was generally quite rough between the Cape of Good Hope and this port, with prevailing winds from WNW to SW.

At the Cape of Good Hope Mr. Wilkinson met with the Chesterfield, which sailed hence in April 1793 with the Shah Hormuzear; and one of her people, who had been formerly a convict in this country, wishing to return to it, we now collected from him some information respecting Mr. Bampton's voyage. He told us, that the two ships were six months in their passage hence to Timor, owing to the difficulty which they met with in the navigation of the straits between New Holland and New Guinea. On one of the islands in these straits they lost a boat, which had been sent on shore to trade with the natives. In this boat went, never to return (according to this person's account), Captain Hill; Mr. Carter, a friend of Mr. Bampton's;--Shaw, the first mate of the Chesterfield;--Ascott, who had been a convict here, and who had distinguished himself at the time the Sirius was lost; and two or three black people belonging to the Shah Hormuzear. It was conjectured that they were, immediately after landing, murdered by the natives, as the people of a boat that was sent some hours after to look for them found only the clothes which they had on when they left the ship, and a lantern and tinder-box which they had taken with them; the clothes were torn into rags. At a fire they found three hands; but they were so black and disfigured by being burnt, that the people could not ascertain whether they had belonged to black or white men. If the account of this man might be credited, the end of these unfortunate gentlemen and their companions must have been truly horrid and deplorable; it was however certain that the ships sailed from the island without them, and their fate was left in uncertainty, though every possible effort to discover them was made by Mr. Bampton.

At the Cape of Good Hope, Mr. Wilkinson met the Chesterfield, which had left in April 1793 alongside the Shah Hormuzear. One of the crew members, who had previously been a convict in this country and wanted to return, shared some details about Mr. Bampton's voyage. He said it took the two ships six months to reach Timor due to the challenges they faced navigating the straits between New Holland and New Guinea. They lost a boat on one of the islands in those straits, which had been sent to trade with the locals. According to this man, Captain Hill, Mr. Carter (a friend of Mr. Bampton), Shaw (the first mate of the Chesterfield), Ascott (a former convict who had made a name for himself during the loss of the Sirius), and a couple of black crew members from the Shah Hormuzear were in that boat, and none of them returned. It was suspected that they were murdered by the natives right after landing, as a search party sent hours later only found the clothes they were wearing when they left the ship, along with a lantern and tinder-box they had taken with them—the clothes were torn to shreds. They found three hands near a fire, but they were so burned and unrecognizable that no one could tell whether they belonged to black or white men. If this man's account is to be believed, the end of these unfortunate gentlemen and their companions must have been truly horrific and tragic; however, it was certain that the ships sailed away from the island without them, leaving their fate uncertain, despite Mr. Bampton's every effort to find them.

At Timor Mr. Bampton took in a very valuable freight of sandal wood, with which he proceeded to Batavia; and when the Chesterfield parted company, he hoped soon to return to this country.

At Timor, Mr. Bampton loaded a very valuable shipment of sandalwood, which he took to Batavia; and when the Chesterfield separated, he anticipated returning to this country soon.

In consequence of the supplies received by the Indispensable, the full ration of flour was directed to be issued, and the commissary was ordered not to receive for the present any more Indian corn that might be brought to the public stores for sale. The following weekly ration was established until further orders, and commenced on the 27th:

In light of the supplies received by the Indispensable, the full amount of flour was approved for distribution, and the commissary was instructed not to accept any more corn that might be brought to the public stores for sale, at least for now. The weekly ration was set as follows until further notice, starting on the 27th:

Flour eight pounds; beef seven pounds or pork four pounds; Indian corn three pints, in lieu of peas.

Flour: eight pounds; beef: seven pounds or pork: four pounds; Indian corn: three pints instead of peas.

The whole quantity of Indian corn purchased by the commissary on account of Government from settlers and others amounted to six thousand one hundred and sixty-three bushels and a quarter, which, taken at five shillings per bushel, came to the sum of £1540 16s 3d.

The total amount of corn bought by the commissary for the government from settlers and others was six thousand one hundred sixty-three and a quarter bushels, which, priced at five shillings per bushel, totaled £1540 16s 3d.

Toward the latter end of this month, Wilkinson, the millwright, was drowned in a pond in the neighbourhood of the Hawkesbury River. He had been there on a Sunday with some of the settlers to shoot ducks, and getting entangled with the weeds in the pond was drowned, though a good swimmer; thus untimely perishing before he could reap any reward from his industry and abilities.

Toward the end of this month, Wilkinson, the millwright, drowned in a pond near the Hawkesbury River. He had gone there on a Sunday with some of the settlers to shoot ducks and got tangled in the weeds in the pond, drowning despite being a good swimmer; thus, he tragically died before he could enjoy any rewards from his hard work and skills.

Several people still continued to complain of sore eyes, but the disorder was disappearing fast.

Several people still complained of sore eyes, but the problem was fading quickly.

June.] The signal for a sail was made in the morning of the first of June, and was conjectured to be for one of the ships expected to arrive from England; but in a few hours word was brought that the Britannia was safe within the harbour. This arrival gave general satisfaction, as many doubts about her return had been created by some accounts which the master of the Indispensable had heard at the Cape of Good Hope, of the Bay of Bengal being full of French privateers.

June.] The signal to sail was raised in the morning of June 1st, and it was thought to be for one of the ships expected from England; but within a few hours, we received word that the Britannia was safely in the harbor. This arrival was met with widespread relief, as there had been many concerns about her return due to some reports the captain of the Indispensable had heard at the Cape of Good Hope about the Bay of Bengal being crowded with French privateers.

On Mr. Raven's arrival at the settlement, we learned that he had been forced to go to Batavia instead of Bengal, having been attacked in the Straits of Malacca by a fleet of piratical Proas, which engaged him for six hours, and from whom he might have found some difficulty to escape, had he not fortunately killed the captain of the one which was nearest to the Britannia when in the act of making preparations for boarding him. At Batavia he was informed that his passage to Bengal was very precarious, from the number of French privateers which infested the bay, as well as the west coast of Sumatra, several vessels having arrived at Batavia which had been chased by them. Mr. Raven, therefore, determined to load the Britannia at Batavia, and, after some necessary arrangements with the governor-general and council, purchased the following cargo at the annexed prices for the settlements in New South Wales, viz

On Mr. Raven's arrival at the settlement, we learned that he had to go to Batavia instead of Bengal after being attacked in the Straits of Malacca by a fleet of pirate Proas. They engaged him for six hours, and it would have been tough for him to escape if he hadn't luckily killed the captain of the nearest one while it was preparing to board the Britannia. Once in Batavia, he found out that his journey to Bengal was really risky because of the number of French privateers in the bay and along the west coast of Sumatra, with several ships arriving in Batavia after being chased by them. As a result, Mr. Raven decided to load the Britannia in Batavia and, after making some necessary arrangements with the governor-general and council, bought the following cargo at the listed prices for the settlements in New South Wales, viz

                                                Rix dollars  Stivers

250 Casks of beef--111,264¼ lbs. at 9 stivers*     20,862     2
250 Casks of pork--83,865½ lbs. at ditto           15,724    37
500 Pecols** of sugar, at 7 rix dollars
   27 stivers per Pecol                             3,781    12
35 Coyangs*** of rice, at 55 rix dollars per Coyang 1,925     0

                                                Rix dollars  Stivers

250 casks of beef—111,264¼ lbs. at 9 stivers*     20,862     2  
250 casks of pork—83,865½ lbs. at the same rate        15,724    37  
500 pecols** of sugar, at 7 rix dollars  
   27 stivers per pecol                             3,781    12  
35 coyangs*** of rice, at 55 rix dollars per coyang 1,925     0

[* Forty-eight stivers the rix dollar.]

[* Forty-eight stivers equal one rix dollar.]

[** Pecol, one hundred and thirty-three pounds English.]

[** Pecol, one hundred thirty-three pounds English.]

[*** Coyang, three thousand three hundred and seventy-five pounds Dutch.]

[*** Coyang, three thousand three hundred seventy-five pounds Dutch.]

To these must be added for extra boat hire. Hire of twenty
black people for twenty days, and commission
on the purchase at 2½ per cent.                       1493   0
                                                    ----------
Rix dollars                                         42,786   3

The bills drawn on the treasury for this cargo bearing
a premium of 16 per cent, there was deducted from
the whole                                            6,040   0
Which reduced the total amount to rix dollars       37,746   3

                                                        £   s  d
Or in sterling money of Great Britain                7,549  4  3
To which the hire* of the ship being added,          2,210  7  7
                                                    ------------
The whole of the expense amounted to                £9,759 11 10

To these costs, we need to add the extra boat hire. The hire of twenty people for twenty days, along with a commission on the purchase at 2.5 percent.

Rix dollars                                         42,786.3

The bills drawn on the treasury for this cargo, which had a premium of 16 percent, resulted in a deduction from the total of                                             6,040.0
Which brought the total down to rix dollars       37,746.3

                                                        £   s  d
Or in British pounds,                       7,549 4 3
If we also add the hire* of the ship,          2,210 7 7
                                                    ------------
The total expense came to                £9,759 11 10

[* She was chartered at fourteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month, and to be paid for two hundred and ninety-six tons, her registered measurement.]

[* She was hired at fourteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month, and she was to be paid for two hundred and ninety-six tons, her official measurement.]

Captain Nepean, who left this place as a passenger in the Britannia, and took with him some dispatches for government, and the private letters of the officers, left Batavia on the 17th of February last in the Prince William Henry, a fast sailing schooner, bound direct for England.

Captain Nepean, who departed from here as a passenger on the Britannia and took along some government dispatches and private letters from the officers, left Batavia on February 17th in the Prince William Henry, a fast sailing schooner headed straight for England.

The Britannia arrived at Batavia on the 11th of February, and sailed for this country on the 10th of April following. While she lay at Batavia, the season was extremely unhealthy, and some of her people fell victims to the well-known insalubrity of the climate.

The Britannia arrived in Batavia on February 11th and left for this country on April 10th. During her time in Batavia, the weather was very unhealthy, and some of her crew suffered due to the notorious unhealthiness of the climate.

At Batavia Mr. Raven learned that the Shah Hormuzear sailed from thence for Bombay three months before he arrived there; and the report we had heard of the disaster which befel the boat and people from that ship, in the passage through the Straits between this country and New Guinea, was confirmed at Batavia. As, however, Mr. Bampton had not since been heard of, it was more than probable he had fallen a prize to some of the privateers which were to be met with in those seas.

At Batavia, Mr. Raven found out that the Shah Hormuzear had left for Bombay three months before he got there; and the news we had heard about the disaster that happened to the boat and people from that ship while crossing the Straits between this country and New Guinea was confirmed in Batavia. However, since Mr. Bampton had not been heard from since, it was highly likely that he had become a victim of some privateers operating in those seas.

His Majesty's birthday did not pass without that distinction which we all, as Englishmen devoted to our sovereign, had infinite pleasure in showing it.

His Majesty's birthday didn't go by without the special recognition that we, as loyal Englishmen, took great pleasure in displaying.

On the 8th the Speedy, a storeship commanded by Mr. Melville, who was here in 1791 in the Britannia whaler, anchored in the cove from England, with a cargo of stores and provisions for the colony, and clothing for the New South Wales corps. Mr. Melville sailed a few hours before the Indispensable, and touched at Rio de Janeiro, whence he had a long passage of several weeks. He made the south cape of this country the 2nd instant; and arrived here in a leaky and weak condition.

On the 8th, the Speedy, a supply ship led by Mr. Melville, who was here in 1791 on the Britannia whaler, anchored in the cove after coming from England with a load of supplies and food for the colony, as well as clothes for the New South Wales corps. Mr. Melville set sail a few hours before the Indispensable and made a stop in Rio de Janeiro, from which he had a long journey lasting several weeks. He reached the southern tip of this country on the 2nd and arrived here in a leaky and weakened state.

Good fortune befriended us in the passage of this ship; for she ran safely through every part where there could be danger, without a gun on board to defend her from an enemy if she should have met with any.

Good luck was on our side during this journey on the ship; it safely navigated through every dangerous area, even though there was no weapon on board to protect us from any potential enemies we might have encountered.

On the 14th, a few hours after the signal was made at the South Head, arrived in the harbour the Halcyon, a ship from Rhode Island, commanded by Mr. Benjamin Page, who was here in the ship Hope at the close of the year 1792, and who had ventured here again with a cargo of provisions and spirits* on speculation.

On the 14th, a few hours after the signal was given at the South Head, the Halcyon, a ship from Rhode Island, arrived in the harbor, captained by Mr. Benjamin Page, who was here on the ship Hope at the end of 1792, and who had come back with a load of supplies and alcohol on a gamble.

[* Eight hundred barrels of beef and pork, American cured. About five thousand gallons of spirits; a small quantity of tobacco, tea, nankeens, etc.]

[* Eight hundred barrels of American-cured beef and pork. About five thousand gallons of spirits; a small amount of tobacco, tea, nankeens, etc.]

Mr. Page made his passage from Rhode Island in one hundred and fifteen days, and without touching at any port. His run from the south cape of New Holland was only five days. The ship he built himself at Providence, after his return from China in the Hope. That ship was only two months in her voyage from hence to Canton, and Mr. Page did not see any land until he made the Island of Tinian. This place he now represented as well calculated to furnish a freight of cattle for this colony.

Mr. Page made his journey from Rhode Island in one hundred fifteen days, without stopping at any port. His trip from the southern tip of New Holland took just five days. He built the ship himself in Providence after returning from China on the Hope. That ship took only two months to travel from here to Canton, and Mr. Page didn’t see any land until he reached Tinian Island. He now suggested that this location was well-suited to supply cattle for this colony.

Of the convicts that Mr. Page was permitted to ship at this port in his last voyage, William Murphy behaved so extremely ill, having more than once endeavoured to excite the crew to mutiny, that at St Helena he delivered him to the captain of his Majesty's ship Powerful, whom he found there. This proved in the event a circumstance of great good fortune to Murphy, for, being directly rated on that ship's books (his abilities as a sail-maker entitling him to that situation), and a French East Indiamen being captured by the Powerful a very few hours after, he became entitled to a seaman's share of the produce of her cargo, which was a very valuable one.

Of the convicts Mr. Page was allowed to transport from this port on his last voyage, William Murphy misbehaved so badly, having tried more than once to incite the crew to mutiny, that he handed him over to the captain of His Majesty's ship Powerful, whom he met at St Helena. This turned out to be a stroke of good luck for Murphy because he was immediately added to that ship's crew (his skills as a sail-maker qualifying him for that role), and a French East Indiaman was captured by the Powerful just a few hours later, entitling him to a share of the profits from its valuable cargo.

Bateman he carried on with him to Rhode Island, where he married, but had more than once exhibited symptoms of returning to habits which he had not forgotten, and which would soon bring him to disgrace in his new situation. Shepherd he had put on board a ship bound to Ostend, and spoke well of his conduct.

Bateman took him with him to Rhode Island, where he got married, but he had shown signs more than once of slipping back into old habits that he hadn't fully forgotten, and those would likely lead to trouble in his new life. He had put Shepherd on a ship headed to Ostend and spoke positively about his behavior.

Captain Page at first thought he had come to a bad market with his provisions; for the day was arrived when we found ourselves enabled to say that we were not in want of any casual supplies; but by the end of the month he declared he had not made a bad voyage; his spirits and provisions were nearly all purchased by individuals; and what he at first thought an unprofitable circumstance to him (the sight of four ships at anchor in the cove) proved favourable, for the most of his provisions were disposed of among the shipping. The whole of the spirits were purchased by the officers of the settlement and of the garrison at the rate of six shillings per gallon; and afforded, together with what had been received from Batavia by the Britannia, a large and comfortable supply of that article for a considerable time.

Captain Page initially thought he had made a bad choice with his supplies because it seemed like we didn't need any extra provisions. However, by the end of the month, he said it turned out to be a good trip. Most of his spirits and provisions were bought by people, and what he first considered a disadvantage—seeing four ships anchored in the cove—actually worked in his favor, as most of his food was sold to the ships. All the spirits were bought by the officers from the settlement and the garrison at six shillings per gallon, providing, along with what had come from Batavia on the Britannia, a substantial and comfortable stock of that item for quite a while.

It might be safely pronounced, that the colony never wore so favourable an appearance as at this period: our public stores filled with wholesome provisions; five ships on the seas with additional supplies; and wheat enough in the ground to promise the realizing of many a golden dream; a rapidly increasing stock; a country gradually opening, and improving every where upon us as it opened; with a spirit universally prevalent of cultivating it.

It can be confidently said that the colony has never looked so promising as it does now: our public stores are stocked with good food; five ships are at sea bringing in more supplies; there’s enough wheat planted to fulfill many hopes; our livestock is rapidly increasing; the land is opening up and improving all around us; and there’s a widespread enthusiasm for farming it.

The ships which had lately arrived from England were fraught with the dismal and ill-founded accounts, which through some evil design continued to be insidiously propagated, of the wretched unprofitable soil of New South Wales. It was hoped, however, that when the present appearance and state of the colony should reach England, every attempt to mislead the public would cease; and such encouragement be held out as would induce individuals to settle in the country.

The ships that recently arrived from England were loaded with gloomy and unfounded reports, which for some malicious reason continued to be secretly spread, about the poor and unproductive land of New South Wales. However, it was hoped that once the current condition and outlook of the colony were communicated back to England, all efforts to mislead the public would stop; and that there would be enough encouragement offered to persuade people to move to the country.

In the Halcyon arrived an American gentleman (Mr. W. Megee) in the character of supercargo. This person, on seeing the Toongabbie hills covered with a most promising crop of wheat, declared that be had never seen better in America, even at Rhode island, the garden of America; and on being shown some Indian corn of last year's growth, gave it as his opinion, that we wanted nothing but large herds of grazing cattle, to be a thriving, prosperous, and great colony, possessing within itself all the essential articles of life.

In the Halcyon arrived an American man (Mr. W. Megee) as a supercargo. This individual, upon seeing the Toongabbie hills filled with a very promising wheat crop, stated that he had never seen anything better in America, not even in Rhode Island, the garden of America; and when shown some Indian corn from last year's harvest, he expressed his belief that all we needed were large herds of grazing cattle to become a thriving, prosperous, and great colony with all the essential items for life.

We ourselves had long been impressed with an idea of the advantage that grazing cattle would give to the country; every possible care was taken of the little that was in it, and all means used to promote its increase. One step toward this was the keeping up the price; an article. by which the proprietor was always certain of making a great profit, was as certain to be taken the greatest care of, every individual possessing stock found it his interest to preserve it in the highest order, that it might be deemed equal to the general high value which stock bore.

We had been really struck by the idea that raising cattle would benefit the country. We took every possible measure to care for the limited resources available and did everything we could to increase them. One key step was maintaining the price; any item that guaranteed the owner a significant profit was always going to be well cared for. Everyone with livestock had a vested interest in keeping it in top condition so that it matched the overall high value of livestock.

By an account which was taken at the end of this month of the live stock in the colony, the following numbers appeared to be in the possession of government and of individuals, viz.

By a report taken at the end of this month on the livestock in the colony, the following numbers were recorded as being owned by the government and individuals, namely:

HORSES
                     Mares Stallions
Government stock       6       6
Private stock          5       3
Total                 11       9

ASSES
                     Male   Female
Government stock       -       -
Private stock          2       1
Total                  2       1

OXEN
                     Bulls   Cows
Government stock      14      18
Private stock          1       7
Total                 15      25

SHEEP
                     Ewes  Rams and Wethers
Government stock      59      49
Private stock        257     161
Total                316     210

GOATS
                     Male   Female
Government stock       3      10
Private stock        167     342
Total                170     352

TOTAL
Government stock  165
Private stock     946
Total            1111

HORSES  
                     Mares Stallions  
Government stock       6       6  
Private stock          5       3  
Total                 11       9  
  
ASSES  
                     Male   Female  
Government stock       -       -  
Private stock          2       1  
Total                  2       1  
  
OXEN  
                     Bulls   Cows  
Government stock      14      18  
Private stock          1       7  
Total                 15      25  
  
SHEEP  
                     Ewes  Rams and Wethers  
Government stock      59      49  
Private stock        257     161  
Total                316     210  
  
GOATS  
                     Male   Female  
Government stock       3      10  
Private stock        167     342  
Total                170     352  
  
TOTAL  
Government stock  165  
Private stock     946  
Total            1111

In this account the hogs (from their being so disposed as not easily to be ascertained) were not included; but they were supposed to amount to several hundreds.

In this account, the hogs (since they were situated in such a way that it was hard to determine their numbers) were not included; however, it was estimated that they numbered in the hundreds.

As a reserve in time of great distress, when alone it could be made use of, this stock was, when compared with our numbers, no very great dependance; but it was every thing as a stock to breed from, and well deserving of attention to cherish it and promote its increase.

As a backup during tough times, when it could only be used alone, this reserve wasn't a huge reliance compared to our numbers; however, it was crucial as a source for breeding, and it deserved our attention to nurture it and encourage its growth.

On the last day of the month the Francis schooner sailed for Norfolk Island, whither she was sent merely to apprise Mr. King that the Daedalus would be dispatched to him immediately after the return of the schooner, with such stores and provisions as he should require.

On the last day of the month, the Francis schooner set sail for Norfolk Island, where it was sent just to inform Mr. King that the Daedalus would be sent to him right after the schooner returned, with whatever supplies and provisions he needed.

During this month the house of the Rev. Mr. Johnson was broken into at night, and robbed of sugar, coffee, arrack, Russia sheeting, and other articles to a large amount. There was little doubt but that some of his own people had either committed the burglary, or had given information to others how and when it might be committed, as the part of the house broken into was that which Mr. Johnson had applied to a store-room. Several people were taken up, and some of the articles found concealed in the woods; but those who stole them had address enough to avoid discovery.

During this month, Rev. Mr. Johnson’s house was broken into at night, and thieves stole sugar, coffee, arrack, Russia sheeting, and other items worth a lot. There was little doubt that some of his own people were either involved in the burglary or had tipped off others about when and how to do it, as the area of the house that was broken into was the part Mr. Johnson had intended to use as a storage room. Several people were arrested, and some of the stolen items were found hidden in the woods, but those who took them were clever enough to avoid getting caught.

Very shortly after this a most daring burglary was committed in a house in the old marine quarters occupied by Mr. Kent, who arrived here in the Boddingtons from Ireland in August last, as agent of convicts on the part of Government. He had secured the door with a padlock, and after sun-set had gone up to one of the officers' barracks, where he was spending the evening, when, before nine o'clock, word was brought him that his house had been broken into. On going down, he found that the staple, which was a very strong one, had been forced out, and a large chest that would require four men to convey it out of the door had been taken off. It contained a great quantity of wearing apparel, money, bills, and letters; but, though the theft could not have been long committed, all the search that twenty or thirty people made for some hours that night was ineffectual, no trace being seen of it, and nothing found but a large caulking-iron, with which it was supposed the staple was wrenched off. The chest was found the next morning behind a barrack (which had lately been fitted up as a place of divine worship for the accommodation of the chaplain of the New South Wales corps), and some of the wearing apparel was brought in from the woods; but Mr. Kent's loss was very little diminished by this recovery.

Very soon after this, a bold burglary occurred in a house in the old marine quarters occupied by Mr. Kent, who arrived here on the Boddingtons from Ireland last August as a convict agent for the Government. He had secured the door with a padlock and had gone up to one of the officers' barracks to spend the evening when, before nine o'clock, he was informed that his house had been broken into. When he went down, he found that the staple, which was very strong, had been forced out, and a large chest that would require four men to carry had been taken away. It contained a lot of clothing, money, bills, and letters; however, despite the theft happening not long before, the search made by twenty or thirty people for several hours that night was fruitless, with no trace found other than a large caulking iron, which was believed to have been used to wrench off the staple. The chest was discovered the next morning behind a barrack (which had recently been set up as a place of worship for the chaplain of the New South Wales corps), and some of the clothing was recovered from the woods, but Mr. Kent's loss was still significantly unchanged by this recovery.

In addition to these burglaries a highway robbery was committed on the supercargo of the American, who was attacked in the dusk of the evening, close by one of the barracks, by two men, who, in the moment of striking him, seized hold of his watch, and with a violent jerk wrenched off the seals, the watch falling on the ground. The place was, however, too public to risk staying to look for it; and the owner was fortunate enough to find it himself, but the seals, which were of gold, were carried off.

Besides these break-ins, there was a highway robbery involving the supercargo of the American. He was attacked at dusk, near one of the barracks, by two men who, as they struck him, grabbed his watch and violently yanked off the seals, causing the watch to drop to the ground. However, the area was too public for them to risk hanging around to look for it. Thankfully, the owner managed to find it himself, but the gold seals were taken.

All these offences against peace and good order were to be attributed to the horrid vice of gaming, which was still pursued in this place, and which, from the management and address of those who practised it, could not be prevented. The persons of the peace-officers were well known to them; and, that they might never be detected in the fact, one of the party, commonly the greatest loser, was always stationed on the look-out to alarm in time.

All these offenses against peace and order were due to the terrible vice of gambling, which was still happening here and could not be stopped because of how skillfully those involved practiced it. The peace officers were well known to them, and to avoid getting caught, one of the group, usually the biggest loser, was always posted as a lookout to warn them in time.

During this month the millwright Buffin completed the mill which he was constructing in the room of Wilkinson's; and, on its being worked, it was found to answer still better than the first which he made. The body of Wilkinson, after being dragged for several days in vain, was found at last floating on the surface of the pond where he lost his life, and being brought into Parramatta was there decently interred.

During this month, the millwright Buffin finished building the mill in Wilkinson's room, and when it was put to work, it turned out to perform even better than the first one he made. After several days of searching in vain, Wilkinson's body was finally found floating on the surface of the pond where he had drowned, and it was brought to Parramatta for a proper burial.

Of the few who died in this month was one, a male convict, of the name of Peter Gillies, who came out to this country in the Neptune transport in the year 1791. His death took place on the morning of the arrival of the Speedy from England, by which ship a letter was received addressed to him, admonishing him of the uncertainty of life, recommending him early to begin to think of the end of it, and acquainting him of the death of his wife, a child, and two other near relations. He had ceased to breathe before this unwelcome intelligence reached the hospital.

Of the few who died this month, one was a male convict named Peter Gillies, who arrived in this country on the Neptune transport in 1791. He died on the morning the Speedy arrived from England, bringing a letter for him that warned him about the uncertainty of life, encouraged him to start thinking about its end, and informed him about the deaths of his wife, a child, and two other close relatives. He had already passed away before this unfortunate news reached the hospital.

July.] The signal for a sail was made at the South Head between seven and eight o'clock in the morning of the 5th of July; and soon after the Hope, an American ship from Rhode Island, anchored in the cove, having on board a cargo of salted provisions and spirits on speculation. This ship was here before with Captain Page, the commander of the Halcyon, and now came in the same employ, the house of Brown and Francis at Providence. Brown was the uncle of Page, between whom there being some misunderstanding, Page built and freighted the Halcyon after the departure of the Hope, whose master being ordered to touch at the Falkland's Islands, Page determined to precede him, in his arrival at this country, and have the first of the market, in which he succeeded.

July.] A signal for a sail was made at South Head between seven and eight in the morning on July 5th; and shortly after, the Hope, an American ship from Rhode Island, anchored in the cove, carrying a cargo of salted provisions and spirits as a speculative venture. This ship had previously visited with Captain Page, the captain of the Halcyon, and now returned for the same purpose, representing the house of Brown and Francis in Providence. Brown was Page's uncle, and due to some misunderstandings between them, Page built and loaded the Halcyon after the Hope had left, as the captain of the Hope was ordered to stop at the Falkland Islands. Page decided to arrive in this country ahead of him and secure the first opportunity in the market, which he accomplished.

This proved a great disappointment to the master of the Hope, who indeed sold his spirits at three shillings and sixpence per gallon; but his salted provisions no one would purchase.

This was a huge disappointment for the captain of the Hope, who was selling his rum for three shillings and sixpence a gallon; however, no one was interested in buying his salted provisions.

The Hope was seven days in her passage from the South Cape to this port; and the master said, that off Cape St. George he met with a current which carried him during the space of three days a degree to the southward each day.

The Hope took seven days to travel from the South Cape to this port; the captain mentioned that off Cape St. George, he encountered a current that pushed him a degree south every day for three days.

On the 8th the Indispensable and Halcyon sailed on their respective voyages, the former for Bengal, and the latter for Canton. The Indispensable was a large stout ship, provided with a letter of marque, well manned and armed; and had been captured from the French at the beginning of the present war. The master was permitted to receive on board several persons from the colony, on his representing that he was short of hands to navigate his ship; and two convicts found means to make their escape from the settlement. A third was discovered concealed on board for the same purpose, and being brought on shore, it appeared that the coxswain of the lieutenant-governor's boat had assisted him in his attempt; for which he was punished and turned out of the boat, such a breach of trust deserving and requiring to be particularly noticed.

On the 8th, the Indispensable and Halcyon set off on their journeys, the former heading to Bengal and the latter to Canton. The Indispensable was a large, sturdy ship, equipped with a letter of marque, and was well-manned and armed; it had been taken from the French at the start of the current war. The captain was allowed to bring a few people from the colony on board, as he claimed he was short-handed to operate the ship; and two convicts managed to escape from the settlement. A third convict was found hiding on board for the same reason, and when brought ashore, it turned out that the coxswain of the lieutenant-governor's boat had helped him in his attempt. For this, he was punished and removed from the boat, as such a violation of trust needed to be addressed seriously.

By the Halcyon were sent some dispatches to be forwarded by the way of China to his Majesty's secretary of state for the home department. The day following the departure of these two ships, the Fancy snow arrived from Bombay, having on board a small quantity of rice and dholl*, intended as part of the contract entered into by Captain Bampton, who, we now learned, had arrived safe at Bombay, after a long passage from this place of between six and seven months. This vessel was commanded by Mr. Thomas Edgar Dell, formerly chief mate of Mr. Bampton's ship the Shah Hormuzear, from whom the following information was received.

By the Halcyon, some messages were sent to be forwarded via China to the secretary of state for the home department. The day after these two ships left, the Fancy snow arrived from Bombay, carrying a small amount of rice and dholl*, which was part of the contract made by Captain Bampton, who we now learned had safely arrived in Bombay after a long journey from this place that took between six and seven months. This vessel was captained by Mr. Thomas Edgar Dell, who had previously been the chief mate on Mr. Bampton's ship, the Shah Hormuzear, from whom the following information was received.

[* Thirty-eight tons of rice, and thirty-eight tons of dholl. Captain Bampton also sent twenty-four bags of seed-wheat.]

[* Thirty-eight tons of rice and thirty-eight tons of dholl. Captain Bampton also sent twenty-four bags of seed wheat.]

The ships Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield sailed, as before related, from Norfolk Island on the 27th of May 1793. On the 2nd of the following month a reef was seen in latitude 19 degrees 28 minutes S and longitude 158 degrees 32 minutes 15 seconds East. On the 1st of July, being then in latitude 9 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds S and longitude 142 degrees 59 minutes 15 seconds East of Greenwich, they fell in with an island which obtained the name of Tate's Island, and at which they had the misfortune to stave a boat as before mentioned. The circumstances of the murder of Captain Hill, Mr. Carter, Shaw the first mate of the Chesterfield, and the boat's crew, were related by Mr. Dell. It appeared from his account, that they had landed to search for fresh water, and purposed remaining one night on the island to barter with the natives, and procure emu feathers from them. The day after they were put on shore the weather changed, coming on to blow hard; the ship was driven to leeward of the bay in which they landed; and it was not until the third day that it was possible to send a boat after them. Mr. Dell himself was employed on this occasion, and returned with the melancholy account of his being unable to discover their lost companions. An armed force was then sent on shore, but succeeded only in burning the huts and inclosures of the natives. At a fire they found some incontestable proofs that their friends could not be living; of three human hands which they took up, one, by some particular marks, was positively thought by Mr. Dell to have belonged to Mr. Carter; their great coats were also found with the buttons cut off, a tinderbox, a lantern, a tomahawk, and other articles from the boat, were also found; but though they rowed entirely round the island, looking into every cove or creek, the boat could not be seen. Mr. Dell was, if possible, to procure two prisoners; but he could not succeed. In the intercourse, however, which he had with them, they gave him to understand by signs, that they had killed all who were in the boat, except two: at least, so Mr. Dell thought; but if it was so, nothing could be hoped from the exception, nor could any other conclusion be formed, than that they were reserved perhaps for more deliberate torture and a more horrid end.

The ships Shah Hormuzear and Chesterfield set sail from Norfolk Island on May 27, 1793. On June 2, a reef was spotted at latitude 19 degrees 28 minutes S and longitude 158 degrees 32 minutes 15 seconds E. By July 1, while at latitude 9 degrees 39 minutes 30 seconds S and longitude 142 degrees 59 minutes 15 seconds E of Greenwich, they came across an island that was named Tate's Island, where they unfortunately damaged a boat, as mentioned before. Mr. Dell recounted the tragic events surrounding the murder of Captain Hill, Mr. Carter, Shaw, the first mate of the Chesterfield, and the crew of the boat. According to his account, they had landed to look for fresh water and planned to stay overnight on the island to trade with the natives for emu feathers. The day after they were put ashore, the weather turned bad, and the ship was pushed downwind from the bay where they had landed. It wasn't until the third day that they were able to send a boat after them. Mr. Dell himself was sent on this mission but returned with the sorrowful news that he couldn't find their missing companions. An armed group was then dispatched to the island but only managed to burn the huts and structures of the natives. At a campfire, they discovered clear evidence that their friends were not alive; they found three human hands, one of which Mr. Dell believed belonged to Mr. Carter due to specific marks. They also found their greatcoats with the buttons cut off, a tinderbox, a lantern, a tomahawk, and other items from the boat; however, despite searching all around the island and checking every cove or creek, the boat was nowhere to be seen. Mr. Dell attempted to capture two prisoners, but he was unsuccessful. In the interactions he had with the natives, they communicated through signs that they had killed everyone in the boat except for two; at least, Mr. Dell thought so. If that was true, there was little hope for those two, and it seemed more likely they were being kept for a more brutal fate.

This island was described as abounding with the red sweet potato, sugar cane, plantains, bamboo, cocoa trees, and mangroves. The natives appeared stout, and were in height from five feet eight to six feet two inches; their colour dark, and their language harsh and disagreeable. The weapons which were seen were spears, lances made of a hard black wood, and clubs about four feet in length. They lived in huts resembling a hay-cock, with a pole driven through the middle, formed of long grass and the leaves of the cocoa tree. These huts might contain six or eight persons each, and were inclosed with a fence of bamboo. In a corner of some of the huts which they entered, they perceived a wooden image, intended to resemble a man; in others the figure of a bird, very rudely carved, daubed with red, and curiously decorated with the feathers of the emu. Over these images were suspended from the roof several strings of human hands, each string having five or six hands on it. In some they found small piles of human skulls; and in one, in which there was a much larger pile of skulls than in any other that they had visited, they observed some gum burning before a wooden image.

This island was described as full of red sweet potatoes, sugar cane, plantains, bamboo, cocoa trees, and mangroves. The natives seemed sturdy, standing between five feet eight and six feet two inches tall; their skin was dark, and their language was rough and unpleasant. The visible weapons included spears, lances made of a strong black wood, and clubs about four feet long. They lived in huts shaped like haystacks, with a pole in the center, made of long grass and cocoa tree leaves. These huts could accommodate six to eight people each and were surrounded by bamboo fences. In a corner of some huts, they noticed a wooden figure meant to look like a man; in others, there were crude carvings of birds painted red and adorned with emu feathers. Strings of human hands, each with five or six hands on them, hung from the roof above these figures. In some huts, they discovered small stacks of human skulls; in one hut, which had a larger pile of skulls than any they had seen before, they noticed gum burning in front of a wooden image.

This island was supposed to be about eight miles in length, five in breadth, and fifteen in circumference; a coral reef seemed to guard it from all approach, except on the north-west part which formed a bay, where the ship anchored in thirteen fathoms water. Fresh water was seen only in one place.

This island was about eight miles long, five miles wide, and had a circumference of fifteen miles; a coral reef appeared to protect it from all sides, except on the north-west side which created a bay where the ship anchored in thirteen fathoms of water. Fresh water was found in only one spot.

Mr. Bampton did not arrive at Timor until the 11th of September, having been detained in the straits by a most difficult and dangerous navigation. By this passage he had an opportunity of discovering that the straits which were named after Torres, and supposed to have been passed first by him in the year 1606, and afterwards by Green in 1722, could never have existed; for Mr. Bampton now observed, that New Guinea extended ninety miles to the southward of this supposed track.

Mr. Bampton didn't get to Timor until September 11th, as he was held up in the straits due to very challenging and risky navigation. During this journey, he realized that the straits named after Torres, which were thought to have been first crossed by him in 1606 and then by Green in 1722, couldn't have been real. Mr. Bampton noticed that New Guinea stretched ninety miles south of this supposed route.

Of the two convicts taken from hence by the Shah Hormuzear, John Ascot was killed by the natives with Captain Hill, and Catharine Pryor, Ascot's wife, died two days before the ship got to Batavia, of a spotted fever, the effect of frequent inebriety while at Timor. Ascot was the young man whose activity prevented the Sirius, with the stores and provisions on board, from being burnt the night after she was wrecked off Norfolk Island, and thereby saved that settlement from feeling absolute want at that time.

Of the two convicts taken from here by the Shah Hormuzear, John Ascot was killed by the locals along with Captain Hill, and Catharine Pryor, Ascot's wife, died two days before the ship arrived in Batavia from a spotted fever, which was caused by her frequent drinking while in Timor. Ascot was the young man whose quick actions prevented the Sirius, loaded with supplies and provisions, from burning the night after it was wrecked off Norfolk Island, thus saving that settlement from facing severe shortages at that time.

Captain Dell was full three months in his passage from Bombay; during the latter part of which time the people on board suffered great distress from a shortness of water and fuel. Out of seventy-five persons, mostly Lascars, with whom he sailed, nine died, and a fever existed among those who remained on his arrival.

Captain Dell was three months into his journey from Bombay; during the last part of which the people on board faced severe hardship due to a lack of water and fuel. Out of seventy-five people, mostly Lascars, who were on the ship, nine died, and a fever was affecting those who survived when he arrived.

The people who had broken into Mr. Kent's house were so daring as to send to that gentleman a letter in miserable verse, containing some invectives against one Bevan, a prisoner in confinement for a burglary, and a woman who they supposed had given information of the people that broke into the clergyman's storeroom, which affair they took upon themselves. The letter was accompanied by a pocket-book belonging to Mr. Kent, and some of his papers; but none of the bills which were in it when it was stolen were returned.

The people who broke into Mr. Kent's house were bold enough to send him a letter in terrible rhyme, calling out a guy named Bevan, who was locked up for burglary, and a woman they thought had tipped off the crew that raided the clergyman's storeroom, an act they claimed responsibility for. The letter came with a wallet that belonged to Mr. Kent and some of his papers; however, none of the bills that were in it when it was stolen were returned.

The insolence of this proceeding, and the frequency of those nocturnal visits, surprised and put all persons on their guard; but that the enemy was within our own doors there was no doubt. An honest servant was in this country an invaluable treasure; we were compelled to take them as chance should direct from among the common herd; and if any one was found who had some remains of principle in him, he was sure to be soon corrupted by the vice which every where surrounded him.

The audacity of this situation and the regularity of those nighttime visits surprised everyone and made them cautious; but there was no doubt that the enemy was right inside our walls. A trustworthy servant in this country was a priceless asset; we had to pick them at random from the general population, and if anyone still had some values, they would inevitably be corrupted by the vices that surrounded them everywhere.

It became necessary at length for the criminal justice of the settlement to interfere, and three convicts were tried for burglaries. John Bevan, though tried on two charges, was acquitted from a want of evidence, and others, John Flemming and Archibald McDonald, were convicted. The latter of these two had broken into a soldier's hut the night before the court sat, and at a time when it was publicly known in the settlement that it was to sit for the trial of such offenders as might be brought before it. The state of the colony called loudly for their punishment, and they were both executed the third day after their conviction. It was afterwards said, that McDonald was one of the party who broke into the clergyman's house.

It eventually became necessary for the local criminal justice system to step in, and three convicts were put on trial for burglaries. John Bevan was tried on two charges but was found not guilty due to a lack of evidence, while John Flemming and Archibald McDonald were convicted. McDonald, in particular, had broken into a soldier's hut the night before the court convened, at a time when it was widely known that the court would be hearing cases against such offenders. The condition of the colony demanded their punishment, and both were executed three days after their conviction. It was later reported that McDonald was part of the group that broke into the clergyman's house.

Soon after these executions, Caesar*, still incorrigible, took up again his former practice of subsisting in the woods by plundering the farms and huts at the outskirts of the towns. He was soon taken; but on his being punished, and that with some severity, he declared with exultation and contempt, that 'all that would not make him better.'

Soon after these executions, Caesar*, still unchangeable, went back to his old habit of surviving in the woods by raiding farms and huts on the outskirts of the towns. He was soon caught; but when he was punished, and quite harshly, he declared with triumph and disdain that 'none of that would make him better.'

[* See Chapter VII, from "Toward the end of the month, some convicts having reported . . ." et seq.]

[* See Chapter VII, starting from "Near the end of the month, some inmates reported . . ." et seq.]

The Hope sailed this month for Canton, the master being suffered to take with him one man, John Pardo Watts, who had served his time of transportation.

The Hope set sail this month for Canton, and the captain was allowed to bring along one crew member, John Pardo Watts, who had completed his sentence of transportation.

The Britannia was also hired in this month by some of the officers of the civil and military departments, to procure them cattle and other articles at the Cape of Good Hope.

The Britannia was also chartered this month by some officers from the civil and military departments to get them cattle and other supplies at the Cape of Good Hope.

During this month a building, consisting of four cells for prisoners, was added to the guard-house on the east side of the cove. This had long been greatly wanted; and, the whole being now inclosed with a strong high paling, some advantage was expected to be derived from confinement adopted only as a punishment.

During this month, a structure featuring four cells for prisoners was added to the guardhouse on the east side of the cove. This had been needed for a long time, and now that the entire area is enclosed with a sturdy high fence, some benefits were anticipated from using confinement strictly as a punishment.

CHAPTER XXVII

The Speedy sets sail and returns
Excursion to the western mountains
The Francis comes back from Norfolk Island
Corn bills are unpaid
The Britannia departs for the Cape, and the Speedy heads out on her fishing trip
Notification about the corn bills
The Resolution and Salamander arrive from England
Troublesome Irish prisoners
Strong winds
Natives
The Daedalus sails for Norfolk Island
Emancipations
The Fancy sets sail
A death
Bevan is executed
A settler is murdered at Parramatta
The Mercury arrives
Spanish ships
Emancipation
Settlers and natives
Civil Court
The Surprize arrives
Deaths
Resolution and Salamander set sail
Transactions
The Daedalus returns from Norfolk Island
The Mercury departs for America
The Lieutenant-Governor leaves the Settlement
The Daedalus heads for England, and the Surprize for Bengal
The Experiment arrives
Captain Paterson takes over the government pro tempore
Ration
Deaths in 1794

August.] Mr. Melville sailed on his intended fishing voyage on the second of this month. He talked of returning in about fourteen days, during which time he meant to visit Jervis and Bateman Bays to the southward, as well as to try once more what fortune might attend him as a whaler upon the coast. He returned, however, on the 8th, without having seen a fish, or visited either of the bays, having experienced a constant and heavy gale of wind at ESE since he left the port, which forced him to sail under a reefed foresail during the whole of its continuance.

August.] Mr. Melville set out on his planned fishing trip on the second of this month. He mentioned he would be back in about two weeks, during which he intended to check out Jervis and Bateman Bays to the south and also give whaling another shot along the coast. However, he came back on the 8th without seeing any fish or visiting either bay, having faced a persistent and strong gale from the ESE since leaving port, which forced him to sail with a reefed foresail the entire time.

In the evening of the day on which he sailed hence, the people at the South Head made the signal for a sail; but it was imagined, that as they had lost sight of the Speedy in the morning, they had perhaps seen her again in the evening on another tack, as the wind had shifted. But when this was mentioned to Mr. Melville at his return, he said that it was not possible for the Speedy to have been seen in the evening of the day she sailed, as she stood right off the land; and he added, that he himself, in the close of the evening, imagined he saw a sail off Botany Bay. No ship, however, making her appearance during the month, it was generally supposed that the people at the Look-out must have been mistaken.

In the evening of the day he sailed away, the people at South Head signaled they saw a sail. It was believed that since they had lost sight of the Speedy in the morning, they might have spotted her again in the evening on a different course since the wind had changed. However, when this was brought up to Mr. Melville upon his return, he said it was impossible for the Speedy to have been seen that evening, as she was heading straight out to sea. He added that he thought he saw a sail off Botany Bay later that evening. Still, since no ship appeared during the month, most people assumed the lookout crew must have been mistaken.

A passage over the inland mountains which form the western boundary of the county of Cumberland being deemed practicable, Henry Hacking, a seaman (formerly quarter-master in the Sirius, but left here from the Royal Admiral), set off on the 20th of the month, with a companion or two, determined to try it. On the 27th they returned with an account of their having penetrated twenty miles further inland than any other European. Hacking reported, that on reaching the mountains, his further route lay over eighteen or nineteen ridges of high rocks; and that when he halted, determined to return, he still had in view before him the same wild and inaccessible kind of country. The summits of these rocks were of iron stone, large fragments of which had covered the intermediate valleys, in which water of a reddish tinge was observed to stagnate in many spots. The soil midway up the ascent appeared good, and afforded shelter and food for several red kangaroos. The ground every where bore signs of being frequently visited by high winds; for on the sides exposed to the south and south-east it was strewed with the trunks of large trees. They saw but one native in this desolate region, and he fled from their approach, preferring the enjoyments of his rocks and woods, with liberty, to any intercourse with them. These hills appearing to extend very far to the northward an impassable barrier seemed fixed to the westward; and southward, and little hope was left of our extending cultivation beyond the limits of the county of Cumberland.

A route over the inland mountains that make up the western border of Cumberland County was considered doable, so Henry Hacking, a former quartermaster on the Sirius who had come from the Royal Admiral, set out on the 20th of the month with a couple of companions, ready to give it a shot. By the 27th, they returned with news that they had ventured twenty miles further inland than any other European. Hacking reported that when they reached the mountains, his path ahead took him over eighteen or nineteen high rocky ridges, and when he decided to turn back, he still faced the same wild and inaccessible landscape. The tops of these rocks were made of ironstone, with large fragments scattered across the valleys, where stagnant water with a reddish tint could be seen in many areas. The soil halfway up the slopes looked promising, providing shelter and food for several red kangaroos. The ground showed clear signs of being frequently battered by strong winds, as the south and southeast sides were scattered with the trunks of large trees. They only spotted one native person in this desolate area, who ran away as they approached, choosing the comfort of his rocks and woods, along with his freedom, over any contact with them. These hills seemed to stretch far to the north, forming an impassable barrier to the west and south, leaving little hope for expanding cultivation beyond the boundaries of Cumberland County.

On the following day the Francis schooner returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent about eight weeks and three days. Her passage thither was made in ten days, and her return in thirty-eight days, having met with very bad weather.

On the next day, the Francis schooner came back from Norfolk Island, after being gone for about eight weeks and three days. It took her ten days to get there and thirty-eight days to return, facing really bad weather along the way.

From Mr. King we learned that his harvest had been prodigiously productive. He had purchased from the first crops which the settlers brought to market upwards of eleven thousand bushels of maize; and bills for the amount were drawn by him in favour of the respective settlers; but, requiring the sanction of the lieutenant-governor, they were now sent to Port Jackson. Mr. King had been partly induced to make this provisional kind of purchase, under an idea that the corn would be acceptable at Port Jackson, and also in compliance with the conditions on which the settlers had received their respective allotments under the regulations of Governor Phillip; that is to say, that their overplus grain and stock should be purchased from them at a fair market price. Being, however, well stocked with that article already, the lieutenant-governor did not think himself justifiable in putting the crown to so great an expense (nearly three thousand pounds sterling) and declined accepting the bills.

From Mr. King, we learned that his harvest had been incredibly productive. He bought over eleven thousand bushels of corn from the first crops the settlers brought to market, and he drew up bills for the amount in favor of the respective settlers. However, since these bills needed approval from the lieutenant-governor, they were sent to Port Jackson. Mr. King was partly motivated to make this temporary kind of purchase because he thought the corn would be needed at Port Jackson, and also to follow the conditions under which the settlers received their land from Governor Phillip, which stated that their excess grain and livestock should be bought from them at a fair market price. However, since the lieutenant-governor already had enough corn, he didn’t think it was justified to spend so much of the crown's money (almost three thousand pounds sterling) and chose not to accept the bills.

Had we been in want of maize, Mr. King could have supplied us with twenty thousand bushels of it, much of which must now inevitably perish, unless the settlers would, agreeably to a notification which the governor intended to send them by the first opportunity, receive their corn again from the public stores.

Had we needed corn, Mr. King could have provided us with twenty thousand bushels of it, much of which will inevitably go to waste unless the settlers agree to take their corn back from the public stores, as the governor planned to notify them at the first opportunity.

Mr. King had the satisfaction to write that every thing went on well in his little island, excepting that some discontent appeared among the marine settlers, and some others, on account of his not purchasing their second crops of corn. As some proof of the existence of this dissatisfaction, one marine settler and three others arrived in the schooner, who had given up their farms and entered into the New South Wales corps; and it was reported that most of the marine settlers intended to follow their example.

Mr. King was pleased to report that everything was going well on his small island, except that there was some discontent among the marine settlers and others because he hadn’t bought their second crops of corn. To illustrate this dissatisfaction, one marine settler and three others came in on the schooner, having given up their farms to join the New South Wales corps; it was rumored that most of the marine settlers planned to do the same.

This circumstance naturally gave rise to an inquiry, what would be the consequence if ever Government should, from farming on their own account, raise a quantity of wheat and maize sufficient for the consumption of those in the different settlements who were victualled by the crown. If such a system should be adopted, the settler would be deprived of a market for his overplus grain, would find himself cut off from the means of purchasing any of those comforts which his family must inevitably require, and would certainly quit a country that merely held out to him a daily subsistence; as he would look, if he was ordinarily wise, for something beyond that. It might be said, that the settler would raise stock for the public; but government would do the same, and so prevent him from every chance of providing for a family beyond the present day.

This situation naturally led to a question: what would happen if the Government decided to grow wheat and corn on their own and produced enough to feed those in different settlements who were supported by the crown? If such a system were in place, the settler would lose a market for his extra grain, would find himself unable to afford any of the comforts his family would need, and would likely leave a country that only offered him a way to survive day by day; someone who was reasonably smart would want more than just that. One might argue that the settler would raise livestock for the public, but the government would do the same, leaving him with no opportunity to provide for his family beyond just the immediate needs.

As it was desirable that those settlers who had become such from convicts should remain in this country, the only inducement they could have would be that of raising to themselves a comfortable independence for the winter of their own lives and the summer of their progeny. Government must therefore, to encourage the settler, let him be the farmer, and be itself the purchaser. The Government can always fix its own price; and the settler will be satisfied if he can procure himself the comforts he finds requisite, and lay by a portion of his emoluments for that day when he can no longer till the field with the labour of his own hands. With this encouragement and prospect, New South Wales would hold out a most promising field for the industrious; and might even do more: it might prove a valuable resource and acceptable asylum for many broken and reduced families, who, for want of it, become through misfortunes chargeable to their respective parishes.

As it was important for convicts who became settlers to stay in this country, the only motivation they could have would be the chance to gain a comfortable independence for the later years of their lives and for their descendants. To support the settlers, the government should allow them to be the farmers while it acts as the purchaser. The government can always set its own price, and the settlers will be content if they can obtain the comforts they need and save some of their earnings for when they can no longer work the land themselves. With this support and outlook, New South Wales would offer a promising opportunity for hardworking individuals and could also serve as a valuable refuge for many struggling families who, without it, become burdens on their local communities due to misfortunes.

Notwithstanding the weather was unfavourable during the whole of this month, the wheat every where looked well, particularly at the settlement near the Hawkesbury; the distance to which place had lately been ascertained by an officer who walked thither from Sydney in two minutes less than eight hours. He computed the distance to be thirty-two miles.

Notwithstanding that the weather was bad throughout this month, the wheat looked good everywhere, especially at the settlement near the Hawkesbury. The distance to that place had recently been measured by an officer who walked there from Sydney in just under eight hours. He estimated the distance to be thirty-two miles.

The weather during the whole of this month was very unpleasant and turbulent. Much rain, and the wind strong at south, marked by far the greatest part of it. On the 25th, the hot land-wind visited us for the first time this season, blowing until evening with much violence, when it was succeeded (as usually happened after so hot a day) by the wind at south.

The weather this month has been really unpleasant and stormy. There’s been a lot of rain, and the strong winds have mostly come from the south. On the 25th, we experienced the hot land wind for the first time this season, blowing fiercely until the evening, when it was usually replaced by the south wind after such a hot day.

September.] On the 1st of September the Britannia sailed for the Cape of Good Hope, on a second voyage of speculation for some of the civil and military officers of the settlement. In her went, with dispatches, Mr. David Wake Bell, and Mr. Richard Kent (gentlemen who arrived here in the Boddingtons and Sugar Cane transports, charged with the superintendance and medical care of the convicts from Ireland). The Speedy also sailed on her fishing voyage, the master intending not to consume any longer time in an unsuccessful trial of this coast. Several persons were permitted to take their passage in these ships; among others, Richard Blount, for whom a free pardon had some time since been received from the secretary of state's office.

September.] On September 1st, the Britannia set sail for the Cape of Good Hope, embarking on a second speculative voyage for some of the civil and military officers of the settlement. Joining her with dispatches were Mr. David Wake Bell and Mr. Richard Kent (gentlemen who had arrived here on the Boddingtons and Sugar Cane transports, tasked with supervising and providing medical care for the convicts from Ireland). The Speedy also departed on her fishing voyage, with the captain planning not to waste any more time on a fruitless exploration of this coastline. Several individuals were allowed to board these ships; among them was Richard Blount, who had recently received a free pardon from the secretary of state's office.

Soon after the departure of these ships, the lieutenant-governor, having previously transmitted with his other dispatches an account of the transaction to the secretary of state, thought it necessary to issue a public order, calculated to impress on the minds of those settlers and others at Norfolk Island who might think themselves aggrieved by his late determination of not ordering payment to be made for the corn purchased of them by Lieutenant-governor King, a conviction that although he should on all occasions be ready to adopt any plan which the lieutenant-governor might devise for the accommodation or advantage of the inhabitants at Norfolk Island, yet in this business he made objections, because he did not consider himself authorised to ratify the agreement.

Soon after these ships left, the lieutenant-governor, having already sent a report of the situation to the secretary of state along with his other messages, felt it was important to issue a public order. This was meant to reassure the settlers and others at Norfolk Island who might feel wronged by his recent decision not to make payments for the corn they sold to Lieutenant-governor King. He wanted to emphasize that while he was always willing to support any plan the lieutenant-governor might come up with for the benefit of the residents at Norfolk Island, he had concerns about this particular situation because he didn’t think he had the authority to approve the agreement.

He proposed to those who held the bills to take back their corn; or, if they preferred leaving it in the public stores until such time as an answer could be received from the secretary of state, he assured them that they might depend on the earliest communication of whatever might be his decision; and that if such decision should be to refuse the payment of the bills, he promised that grain should be returned equal in quantity and quality to what had been received from them.*

He suggested to those who had the bills that they could take back their corn; or, if they preferred, they could leave it in the public storage until they got a response from the secretary of state. He assured them that they could count on receiving the earliest update regarding whatever the decision might be; and if the decision was to deny payment of the bills, he promised that the grain would be returned in the same quantity and quality as what they had given.

[* Governor Hunter on his arrival ordered the bills to be paid, which was afterwards confirmed by the secretary of state.]

[* Governor Hunter ordered the bills to be paid upon his arrival, which was later confirmed by the secretary of state.]

How far the settlers (who in return for the produce of their grounds looked for something more immediately beneficial to them and their families, than the waiting eighteen months or two years for a refusal, instead of payment of these bills) would be satisfied with this order, was very questionable. It has been seen already, that they were dissatisfied at the produce of their second crops not being purchased; what then must be their ideas on finding even the first received indeed, but not accounted for; purchased, but not paid for? it was fair to conclude, that on thus finding themselves without a market for their overplus grain, they would certainly give up the cultivation of their farms and quit the island. Should this happen, Lieutenant-governor King would have to lament the necessity of a measure having been adopted which in effect promised to depopulate his government.

How satisfied the settlers would be with this arrangement—who, in exchange for the produce from their land, were looking for something more immediately beneficial for themselves and their families rather than waiting eighteen months or two years only to receive a rejection instead of payment for these bills—was very uncertain. It has already been seen that they were unhappy about their second crop not being bought; so, what would they think upon discovering that even the first crop was indeed purchased but not paid for? It was reasonable to conclude that, upon finding themselves without a market for their surplus grain, they would definitely give up farming and leave the island. If that happened, Lieutenant-governor King would have to regret the necessity of a decision that effectively promised to depopulate his government.

On the 10th and 11th of this month we had two very welcome arrivals from England, the Resolution and Salamander storeships. They were both freighted with stores and provisions for the colony; but immediately on their anchoring we were given to understand, that from meeting with uncommon bad weather between the Cape of Good Hope and Van Dieman's Land, the masters apprehended that their cargoes had sustained much damage.

On the 10th and 11th of this month, we had two very welcome arrivals from England, the Resolution and Salamander supply ships. They were both loaded with supplies and provisions for the colony, but as soon as they anchored, we learned that due to encountering unusually bad weather between the Cape of Good Hope and Van Dieman's Land, the captains feared that their cargoes had suffered significant damage.

The Resolution sailed in company with the Salamander (from whom she parted in a heavy gale of wind about the longitude of the islands Amsterdam and St. Paul's) on the 20th of March last; anchored on the 16th of April at the Isle of May, whence she sailed on the 20th; crossed the equator on the 3rd of May; anchored on the 25th of the same month in the harbour of Rio de Janeiro; left it on the 10th of June, and, after a very boisterous passage, made the southern extremity of New Holland on the 30th of August, having been ninety-three days in her passage from the Brazils, during which time she endured several hard gales of wind, three of which the master, Mr. Matthew Lock, reported to have been as severe as any man on board his ship had ever witnessed. He stated, in the protest which he entered before the judge-advocate, that his ship was very much strained, the main piece of the rudder sprung, and most of the sails and rigging worn out. The Salamander appeared to have met with weather equally bad; but she was at one time in greater hazard, having broached-to in a tremendous gale of wind; during which time, according to the tale of the superstitious seamen, and which they took care to insert in their protest, blue lights were seen dancing on each masthead and yard in the ship.

The Resolution set sail alongside the Salamander (which she separated from during a strong storm near the longitude of Amsterdam and St. Paul's Islands) on March 20th; she anchored at the Isle of May on April 16th and departed on the 20th. She crossed the equator on May 3rd and anchored in the harbor of Rio de Janeiro on the 25th of the same month. She left Rio on June 10th and, after a rough journey, reached the southern tip of Australia on August 30th, having spent ninety-three days traveling from Brazil. During that time, she faced several fierce storms, three of which the captain, Mr. Matthew Lock, claimed were the worst anyone on board had ever experienced. In the official report he filed with the judge-advocate, he indicated that the ship was heavily strained, the main part of the rudder was damaged, and most of the sails and rigging were worn out. The Salamander seemed to have encountered equally bad weather, but at one point, she was in greater danger, having turned sideways in a severe storm. During that time, according to the stories of the superstitious sailors, and which they made sure to include in their report, blue lights were seen flickering on each masthead and yard of the ship.

By these ships we learned that the Surprise transport, with male and female convicts for this country, was left by them lying at Spithead ready for sea, and that they might be shortly expected. The Kitty, which sailed from this place in June 1793, had arrived safely at Cork on the 5th of February last, not losing any of her passengers or people in so long a voyage and in such a season.

By these ships, we found out that the Surprise transport, with male and female convicts headed for this country, was left by them anchored at Spithead, ready to sail, and that it could be expected soon. The Kitty, which left this place in June 1793, had safely arrived in Cork on February 5th, not losing any of her passengers or crew during such a long journey and in such a season.

His Majesty's appointment of John Hunter esq to be our governor, in the room of Captain Phillip who had resigned his office, we found had been officially notified in the London Gazette of the 5th of February last. Mr. Phillip's services, we understood, were remunerated by a pension of five hundred pounds per annum.

His Majesty's appointment of John Hunter, Esq., as our governor, replacing Captain Phillip who had resigned, was officially announced in the London Gazette on February 5th. We learned that Mr. Phillip's services were compensated with a pension of five hundred pounds per year.

The Irish prisoners were now again beginning to be troublesome; and some of them being missing from labour, it was directly rumoured that a plan was in agitation to seize the boat named the Cumberland, which had recently sailed with provisions for the settlers at the Hawkesbury. By several it was said, that she had actually been attacked without the Heads, and carried. Notice was therefore immediately sent overland to the river, to put the people in the boat on their guard, and to return should she reach that settlement safely: an armed long-boat was also sent to protect her passage round. After a few days suspense we found, that while providing against any accident happening to the Cumberland, some of the Irish prisoners at Parramatta had stolen from the wharf at that place a six-oar'd boat belonging to Lieutenant Macarthur, with which they got without the harbour undiscovered. She was found however, some days after, at Botany Bay. The people who were in her made some threats of resistance, but at length took to the woods, leaving the boat with nearly every thing that they had provided for their voyage. From the woods they visited the farms about Sydney for plunder, or rather for sustenance; but one of them being fired at and wounded, the rest thought it their wisest way to give themselves up. They made no hesitation in avowing that they never meant to return; but at the same time owned that they supposed they had reached Broken Bay instead of Botany Bay, ignorant whether it lay to the northward or southward of this harbour. The man who had been wounded died at the hospital the next day; and his companions appeared but very ill able to provide for themselves, even by those means which had occasioned our being troubled with them in this country.

The Irish prisoners were becoming problematic again; and when some of them were missing from work, rumors spread that there was a plan to seize a boat called the Cumberland, which had recently left with supplies for the settlers at Hawkesbury. Some said that it had actually been attacked outside the Heads and captured. Consequently, a warning was sent overland to inform the people on the boat to be cautious and to return if they reached the settlement safely. An armed longboat was also dispatched to ensure its safe passage. After a few days of uncertainty, we learned that while taking precautions for the Cumberland, some of the Irish prisoners in Parramatta had stolen a six-oared boat belonging to Lieutenant Macarthur from the wharf and managed to evade detection outside the harbor. However, it was later found at Botany Bay. The people on board threatened to resist but ultimately fled into the woods, leaving the boat with almost all their supplies for the journey. From the woods, they raided farms around Sydney for food, but when one of them was shot and wounded, the others decided it was best to surrender. They openly admitted that they never intended to return, but also claimed they thought they had reached Broken Bay instead of Botany Bay, unsure whether it was north or south of this harbor. The wounded man died in the hospital the next day, and his companions seemed unable to care for themselves, even in the ways that had led to our troubles with them in this country.

On the 17th, we were visited by a violent gale of wind at southwest, which blew so strong, that the Resolution was at one time nearly on shore. At Parramatta, during the gale, a public granary, in which were upwards of two thousand four hundred bushels of shelled maize or Indian corn, caught fire, through the carelessness of some servants who were boiling food for stock close to the building (which was a thatched one), and all the corn, together with a number of fine hogs the property of an individual, were destroyed.

On the 17th, a strong southwest wind hit us, so fierce that the Resolution almost ended up on the shore. During this storm at Parramatta, a public granary containing over two thousand four hundred bushels of shelled maize or Indian corn caught fire due to some workers who were carelessly boiling food for livestock near the thatched building. As a result, all the corn and several valuable hogs owned by a local farmer were lost.

Some severe contests among the natives took place during this month in and about the town of Sydney. In fact, we still knew very little of the manners and customs of these people, notwithstanding the advantage we possessed in the constant residence of many of them among us, and the desire that they showed of cultivating our friendship. At the Hawkesbury they were not so friendly; a settler there and his servant were nearly murdered in their hut by some natives from the woods, who stole upon them with such secrecy, as to wound and overpower them before they could procure assistance. The servant was so much hurt by them with spears and clubs, as to be in danger of losing his life. A few days after this circumstance, a body of natives having attacked the settlers, and carried off their clothes, provisions, and whatever else they could lay their hands on, the sufferers collected what arms they could, and following, them, seven or eight of the plunderers were killed on the spot.

Some intense conflicts among the locals happened this month in and around Sydney. In fact, we still knew very little about the ways and traditions of these people, despite having many of them living among us and their apparent interest in building a friendship with us. At the Hawkesbury, they were less friendly; a settler and his servant there were nearly killed in their hut by some locals from the woods, who attacked them with such stealth that they were wounded and overpowered before they could get help. The servant was so badly hurt by spears and clubs that he was in danger of losing his life. A few days after this incident, a group of locals attacked the settlers and stole their clothes, food, and anything else they could grab. The victims gathered whatever weapons they could find and pursued them, resulting in the deaths of seven or eight of the thieves on the spot.

This mode of treating them had become absolutely necessary, from the frequency and evil effects of their visits; but whatever the settlers at the river suffered was entirely brought on them by their own misconduct: there was not a doubt but many natives had been wantonly fired upon; and when their children, after the flight of the parents, have fallen into the settlers hands, they have been detained at their huts, notwithstanding the earnest entreaties of the parents for their return.

This way of dealing with them had become absolutely necessary due to the frequency and harmful effects of their visits; however, everything the settlers at the river experienced was entirely a result of their own wrongdoing. There’s no doubt that many natives had been shot at for no reason, and when their children, after their parents fled, ended up in the settlers' possession, they were kept at their homes despite the desperate pleas of the parents for their return.

On the 26th, the Daedalus sailed for Norfolk Island, having on board a quantity of the stores and provisions lately received from England, and a detachment of officers and men of the New South Wales corps to relieve those on duty there.

On the 26th, the Daedalus set sail for Norfolk Island, carrying a shipment of supplies and provisions recently received from England, along with a group of officers and soldiers from the New South Wales corps to take over from those currently on duty there.

Two female natives, wishing to withdraw from the cruelty which they, with others of their sex, experienced from their countrymen, were allowed to embark in the Daedalus, and were consigned to the care of the lieutenant-governor. One of them was sister to Bennillong; the other was connected with the young man his companion. Perhaps they wished to wait in peace and retirement the arrival of those who were bound to protect them.

Two local women, wanting to escape the cruelty they and other women faced from their countrymen, were given permission to board the Daedalus and were placed under the care of the lieutenant-governor. One of them was Bennillong's sister, and the other was related to the young man who accompanied him. They might have hoped to wait peacefully and privately for the arrival of those meant to protect them.

At the latter end of the month some warrants of emancipation passed the seal of the territory, and received the lieutenant-governor's signature. The objects of this indulgence were, Robert Sidaway, who received an unconditional pardon in consideration of his diligence, unremitting good conduct, and strict integrity in his employment for several years as the public baker of the settlement; and William Leach, who was permitted to quit this country, but not to return to England during the unexpired term of his sentence of transportation, which was for seven years. Eight convicts were pardoned on condition of their serving in the New South Wales corps until regularly discharged therefrom. James Larra, James Ruffler, and Richard Partridge (convicts for life), received a conditional pardon, or (as was the term among themselves on this occasion) were made free on the ground, to enable them to become settlers; as were also William Joyce and Benjamin Carver for the same purpose. Joyce had been transported for fourteen years, and Carver for life. Freedom on the ground was also given to William Waring, a convict for life.

At the end of the month, some emancipation warrants were approved and signed by the lieutenant-governor. The recipients of this leniency included Robert Sidaway, who received an unconditional pardon due to his hard work, consistent good behavior, and integrity during several years as the public baker for the settlement; and William Leach, who was allowed to leave the country but not return to England until his seven-year transportation sentence was completed. Eight convicts were pardoned on the condition that they serve in the New South Wales corps until officially discharged. James Larra, James Ruffler, and Richard Partridge (lifelong convicts) received a conditional pardon, which they referred to among themselves as being made free on the ground, allowing them to become settlers; this also applied to William Joyce and Benjamin Carver for the same reason. Joyce had been sentenced to fourteen years, while Carver was sentenced for life. Similar freedom on the ground was also granted to William Waring, a lifetime convict.

It was pleasing to see so many people withdrawing from the society of vice and wretchedness, and forming such a character for themselves as to be thought deserving of emancipation.

It was great to see so many people turning away from a life of vice and misery, and shaping their own characters to the point where they were seen as deserving of freedom.

On the 29th, the Fancy snow left this port. Mr. Dell, the commander, purposed running to Norfolk Island, but affected a secrecy with respect to his subsequent destination. It was generally surmised, however, that he was bound to some island whereat timber fit for naval purposes was to be procured; and at which whatever ship Mr. Bampton should bring with him might touch and load with a cargo for India. The snow was armed, was about one hundred and seventy tons burden, had a large and expensive complement of officers and men, a guard of sepoys, and a commission from the Bombay marine*. New Zealand was by us supposed to be the place; as force, or at least the appearance of it, was there absolutely requisite.

On the 29th, the Fancy set sail from this port. Mr. Dell, the captain, intended to head to Norfolk Island but kept his next destination under wraps. However, it was widely believed that he was headed to an island where timber suitable for naval use could be obtained; this would allow any ship Mr. Bampton brought along to stop and load up for a trip to India. The snow was armed, weighed about one hundred and seventy tons, had a large and costly crew of officers and men, a guard of sepoys, and a commission from the Bombay marine*. We suspected New Zealand was the place, as it was essential to have force, or at least the appearance of it, there.

[* Mr. Dell had likewise on board a much greater number of cross-cut saws than were necessary to procure wood for the mere use of the vessel.]

Mr. Dell also had on board many more cross-cut saws than needed to gather wood for the vessel's basic use.

The wife of Griffin the drummer, whose hoarded guineas were supposed to have been stolen by Charles, or (as he was more commonly named) Pat Gray, killed herself with drinking, expiring in a fit of intoxication while the husband was employed in the lower part of the harbour in fishing for his family. She left him four children to provide for.

The wife of Griffin the drummer, who was believed to have had her saved guineas stolen by Charles, or as he was more commonly known, Pat Gray, ended her life by drinking, dying in a drunken stupor while her husband was out fishing in the lower part of the harbor for their family. She left him with four children to take care of.

October.] This month opened with an indispensable act of justice: John Bevan, a wretched convict, whose name has been frequently mentioned in this narrative, broke into the house of William Fielder at Sydney, and being caught in the fact, it was substantiated against him beyond the chance of escape; he was of course fully convicted, and received sentence of death. The trial was on the 1st, and at nine in the morning of the 6th he was executed. At the tree he confessed nothing, but seemed terrified when he found himself so near the ignominious death that he had so long merited. On being taken to hear divine service the Sunday preceding his execution, he seemed not to be in the smallest degree affected by the clergyman's discourse, which was composed for the occasion; but was visibly touched at the singing of the psalm intitled the 'Lamentation of a Sinner.'

October.] This month began with a crucial act of justice: John Bevan, a miserable convict whose name has come up often in this story, broke into William Fielder's house in Sydney. He was caught in the act, and there was no chance for him to escape blame; he was, of course, found guilty and sentenced to death. The trial took place on the 1st, and he was executed at nine in the morning on the 6th. At the gallows, he didn’t confess anything but appeared terrified when he realized he was so close to the shameful death he had deserved for so long. When taken to attend church the Sunday before his execution, he didn’t seem affected at all by the clergyman’s sermon, which was specifically made for the occasion; however, he was visibly moved by the singing of the psalm called the 'Lamentation of a Sinner.'

On the evening preceding the day of his execution, information was received from Parramatta, that Simon Burn, a settler, had been stabbed to the heart about eight o'clock in the evening before, of which wound he died in an hour. The man who perpetrated this atrocious act was a convict named Hill, a butcher by trade. It appeared on the trial, which lasted five hours, that Hill had borne the deceased much animosity for some time, and, having been all the day (which, to aggravate the offence, happened to be Sunday) in company drinking with him, took occasion to quarrel with a woman with whom he cohabited, and following her into an empty house, whither she had run to avoid a beating, the deceased, unhappily for him, interfered, and was by Hill stabbed to the heart; living, as has been said, about an hour, but having just strength enough to declare in the presence of several witnesses, that the butcher had killed him. The prisoner attempted to set up an alibi for his defence; but the fact of killing was incontrovertibly fixed upon him, as well as the malice which urged his hand to take away the life of his fellow-creature, and to send him, with the sin upon his head of having profaned the Lord's day by rioting and drunkenness, unprepared before his Maker.

On the evening before his execution, news came from Parramatta that Simon Burn, a settler, had been stabbed in the heart around eight o'clock the previous evening and died an hour later. The person who committed this terrible act was a convict named Hill, who worked as a butcher. During the five-hour trial, it was revealed that Hill had harbored a lot of resentment towards the deceased for some time. After spending the day drinking together (which, to make it worse, was a Sunday), Hill got into an argument with a woman he lived with and followed her into an empty house where she had run to escape getting beaten. Unfortunately for Burn, he intervened and was stabbed to the heart by Hill. He survived for about an hour, just enough time to tell several witnesses that the butcher had killed him. The defendant tried to create an alibi, but the evidence clearly pointed to him as the killer, as well as the malice that drove him to take the life of another person, leaving Burn unprepared to face his Maker, burdened with the sin of having desecrated the Lord's Day with partying and drunkenness.

This poor man was buried by his widow (an Irish woman) in a corner of his own farm, attended by several settlers of that and the neighbouring districts, who celebrated the funeral rites in a manner and with orgies suitable to the disposition and habits of the deceased, his widow, and themselves.

This poor man was buried by his wife (an Irish woman) in a corner of his own farm, attended by several settlers from that area and nearby, who honored the funeral rites in a way that suited the personality and habits of the deceased, his wife, and themselves.

Hill was executed on the 16th, and his body dissected according to his sentence.

Hill was executed on the 16th, and his body was dissected as per his sentence.

On the 17th the Mercury, an American brig, commanded by Mr. William Barnet, anchored in the cove from Falkland's islands. He had nothing on board for sale, but brought us the very welcome information of his having seen the officers of the Spanish ship Descuvierta at that place. Being in want of biscuit, he made application to the commodore Malaspina for a supply, proffering to settle the payment in any manner that he should choose to adopt; but the commodore, after sending him a greater quantity than he had required, assured him that he was sufficiently satisfied in having assisted a ship whose people, whether English or American, spoke the language of those gentlemen from whom himself and the officers of the ships under his command had received, while in New South Wales, such attention and hospitality. Mr. Barnet understood the Atrevida was in the neighbourhood, and that no loss or accident had happened in either ship since their departure from Port Jackson. The Mercury was bound to the north-west coast of America, and her master purposed quitting this port as soon as his people, who were all afflicted with that dreadful sea distemper the scurvy, should be sufficiently recovered.

On the 17th, the Mercury, an American brig captained by Mr. William Barnet, anchored in the cove after coming from the Falkland Islands. He had nothing for sale but brought us the very welcome news that he had seen the officers of the Spanish ship Descuvierta there. Needing biscuits, he asked Commodore Malaspina for a supply, offering to settle the payment in any way he preferred; however, the commodore, after sending him more than he needed, assured him that he was content just to have assisted a ship whose crew, whether English or American, spoke the language of those gentlemen from whom he and the officers of the ships under his command had received such attention and hospitality while in New South Wales. Mr. Barnet learned that the Atrevida was nearby and that there had been no losses or incidents with either ship since they left Port Jackson. The Mercury was headed to the north-west coast of America, and her captain planned to leave this port as soon as his crew, all suffering from the terrible sea sickness known as scurvy, had sufficiently recovered.

The period of probation which had been allotted by the late governor to the services of William Stephenson (one of the people serving in the stores) expiring this month, his pardon was delivered to him accordingly. No one among the prisoners could be found more deserving of this clemency; his conduct had been uniformly that of a good man, and he had shown that he was trustworthy by never having forfeited the good opinion of the commissary under whom he was placed in the provision-store.

The probation period assigned by the late governor to William Stephenson (one of the workers in the stores) is ending this month, so his pardon was granted to him. No one among the prisoners was more deserving of this mercy; his behavior had always been that of a good person, and he proved to be trustworthy by never losing the favor of the commissary he worked under in the provision store.

From the Hawkesbury were received accounts which corroborated the opinion that the settlers there merited the attacks which were from time to time made upon them by the natives. It was now said, that some of them had seized a native boy, and, after tying him hand and foot, had dragged him several times through a fire, or over a place covered with hot ashes, until his back was dreadfully scorched, and in that state threw him into the river, where they shot at and killed him. Such a report could not be heard without being followed by the closest examination, when it appeared that a boy had actually been shot when in the water, from a conviction of his having been detached as a spy upon the settlers from a large body of natives, and that he was returning to them with an account of their weakness, there being only one musket to be found among several farms. No person appearing to contradict this account, it was admitted as a truth; but many still considered it as a tale invented to cover the true circumstance, that a boy had been cruelly and wantonly murdered by them.

From the Hawkesbury, reports came in that supported the belief that the settlers deserved the occasional attacks from the natives. It was now claimed that some settlers had captured a native boy, tied him up, and dragged him multiple times through a fire or over hot ashes until his back was severely burned, then thrown him into the river, where they shot and killed him. Such a claim couldn't go uninvestigated, and it turned out that a boy had indeed been shot while in the water because it was believed he was acting as a spy for a large group of natives, returning with news of the settlers' vulnerability, as there was only one musket found among the various farms. Since no one contradicted this account, it was accepted as true; however, many still thought it was a story created to mask the fact that a boy had been brutally and unnecessarily murdered by the settlers.

The presence of some person with authority was becoming absolutely necessary among those settlers, who, finding themselves freed from bondage, instantly conceived that they were above all restrictions; and, being without any internal regulations, irregularities of the worst kind might be expected to happen.

The presence of someone in authority was becoming absolutely necessary among those settlers, who, finding themselves free from bondage, immediately thought they were above all restrictions; and, lacking any internal regulations, the worst kinds of irregularities could be expected to happen.

On the morning of the 25th a civil court was assembled, for the purpose of investigating an action brought by one Joyce (a convict lately emancipated) against Thomas Daveny, a free man and superintendant of convicts at Toongabbie, for an assault; when the defendant, availing himself of a mistake in his christian name, pleaded the misnomer. His plea being admitted, the business was for that time got over, and before another court could be assembled he had entered into a compromise with the plaintiff, and nothing more was heard of it.

On the morning of the 25th, a civil court gathered to look into a case filed by a recently released convict named Joyce against Thomas Daveny, a free man and supervisor of convicts at Toongabbie, for assault. The defendant pointed out an error in his first name and claimed a misnomer. Since the court accepted his plea, they wrapped up the matter for that session, and before another court meeting could take place, he settled with the plaintiff, and no further action was taken.

In the evening of the same day the Surprise transport arrived from England, whence she sailed on the 2nd of last May, having on board sixty female and twenty-three male convicts, some stores and provisions, and three settlers for this colony.

In the evening of the same day, the Surprise transport arrived from England, where it had set sail on May 2nd of last year, carrying sixty female and twenty-three male convicts, some supplies and provisions, and three settlers for this colony.

Among the prisoners were, Messrs. Muir, Palmer, Skirving, and Margarot, four gentlemen lately convicted in Scotland of the crime of sedition, considered as a public offence, and transported for the same to this country.

Among the prisoners were Messrs. Muir, Palmer, Skirving, and Margarot, four gentlemen recently convicted in Scotland of sedition, seen as a public offense, and sent to this country as punishment.

We found also on board the Surprise a Mr. James Thompson, late surgeon of the Atlantic transport, but who now came in quality of assistant-surgeon to the settlement; and William Baker, formerly here a sergeant in the marine detachment, but now appointed a superintendant of convicts.

We also found on board the Surprise a Mr. James Thompson, who was previously the surgeon of the Atlantic transport, but was now serving as an assistant surgeon for the settlement; and William Baker, who used to be a sergeant in the marine detachment here but was now appointed as the superintendent of convicts.

A guard of an ensign and twenty-one privates of the New South Wales corps were on board the transport. Six of these people were deserters from other regiments brought from the Savoy; one of them, Joseph Draper, we understood had been tried for mutiny (of an aggravated kind) at Quebec.

A guard consisting of an ensign and twenty-one privates from the New South Wales corps were on board the transport. Six of them were deserters from other regiments brought from the Savoy; one of them, Joseph Draper, we learned had been tried for serious mutiny in Quebec.

This mode of recruiting the regiment must have proved as disgusting to the officers as it was detrimental to the interests of the settlement. If the corps was raised for the purpose of protecting the civil establishment, and of bringing a counterpoise to the vices and crimes which might naturally be expected to exist among the convicts, it ought to have been carefully formed from the best characters; instead of which we now found a mutineer (a wretch who could deliberate with others, and consent himself to be the chosen instrument of the destruction of his sovereign's son) sent among us, to remain for life, perhaps, as a check upon sedition, now added to the catalogue of our other imported vices.

This way of recruiting the regiment must have been just as repulsive to the officers as it was harmful to the settlement's interests. If the corps was created to protect the civil system and to counterbalance the vices and crimes that would likely arise among the convicts, it should have been made up of the best individuals. Instead, we ended up with a mutineer (a scoundrel who could scheme with others and agree to be the chosen tool for the downfall of the king's son) sent here to stay with us for life, possibly, as a check on rebellion, now adding to our growing list of imported vices.

This ship touched only at Rio de Janeiro, between which port and the south-west cape of this country the winds which they met with very much favoured, in the idea of Mr. Campbell the master, the opinion of a passage being readily made to the Cape of Good Hope, or to India, round by Van Dieman's Land.

This ship only stopped at Rio de Janeiro, and the winds they encountered between that port and the southwest cape of this country were very favorable according to Mr. Campbell, the captain. He believed that it would be easy to make the journey to the Cape of Good Hope, or to India, by going around Van Diemen's Land.

Among other articles of information now received, we learned that Governor Hunter, with the Reliance and Supply, two ships intended to be employed in procuring cattle for the colony, might be expected to arrive in about three months. The governor was to bring out with him a patent for establishing a court of criminal judicature at Norfolk Island.

Among other updates we've received, we learned that Governor Hunter, along with the Reliance and Supply, two ships meant to help get cattle for the colony, should arrive in about three months. The governor was also bringing a legal document to set up a court for criminal justice at Norfolk Island.

The two natives in England were said to be in health, and anxious for the governor's departure, as they were to accompany him. They had made but little improvement in our language.

The two natives in England were reported to be in good health and eager for the governor's departure since they would be traveling with him. They had made only slight progress in learning our language.

The Surprise anchoring in the cove after dark, she saluted at sunrise the following morning with fifteen guns.

The Surprise anchored in the cove after dark, and the next morning, it greeted the sunrise with fifteen cannon shots.

A theft was committed in the course of the month in one of the out-houses belonging to Government House, used as a regimental storeroom; the articles stolen were fifteen shirts and seventeen pair of shoes. In searching among the rocks and bushes for this property, three white and two check shirts, one pair of trousers, and one pair of stockings, were found; but so damaged by the weather as to be entirely useless. These must have been planted (to use the thiefs phrase) a considerable time; for every mark or trace which could lead to a discovery of the owner was entirely effaced.

A robbery happened this month in one of the outbuildings of Government House, which was being used as a regimental storage room. The stolen items included fifteen shirts and seventeen pairs of shoes. While searching through the rocks and bushes for these items, three white shirts, two check shirts, one pair of trousers, and one pair of stockings were found; however, they were so damaged by the weather that they were completely useless. These must have been placed there (to use the thief's term) quite some time ago, as every mark or sign that could lead to identifying the owner was completely erased.

The storeships being cleared of their cargoes, a survey was made upon such part of them as was damaged, which was found to be very considerable. A serving of slops was immediately issued to the male and female convicts; the men receiving each one jacket, one waistcoat, one shirt, one hat, and one pair of breeches; the women one petticoat, one shift, one pair of stockings, one cap, one neck-handkerchief, one hat, and one jacket made of raven duck. A distinction was made in the articles of the slops served to watchmen and overseers, each receiving one coat instead of a jacket, one pair of duck trousers instead of a pair of breeches, and one pair of shoes.

The storeships were unloaded, and an inspection was done on the damaged goods, which turned out to be quite significant. A supply of clothing was quickly given to the male and female convicts; the men each received a jacket, a waistcoat, a shirt, a hat, and a pair of pants; the women received a petticoat, a shift, a pair of stockings, a cap, a neckerchief, a hat, and a jacket made of raven duck fabric. There was a difference in the clothing given to the watchmen and overseers, with each getting a coat instead of a jacket, a pair of duck trousers instead of breeches, and a pair of shoes.

On the 21st died an industrious good young man, Joseph Webb, a settler at the district named Liberty Plains. He had been working in his ground, and suddenly fell down in an apoplectic fit. We have seen that another settler was murdered, and two male convicts were executed. Burn had been an unfortunate man; he had lost one of his eyes, when, as a convict, he was employed in splitting paling for government; his farm had never succeeded; himself and his wife were too fond of spirituous liquors to be very industrious; and he was at last forced out of the world in a state and in a manner shocking to human nature.

On the 21st, a hardworking, kind young man named Joseph Webb passed away in a place called Liberty Plains. He was working on his land when he suddenly collapsed from a stroke. It’s worth noting that another settler was murdered, and two male convicts were executed. Burn had faced a lot of misfortune; he lost one of his eyes while serving time as a convict breaking wooden posts for the government. His farming efforts never thrived, and both he and his wife drank too much to be very productive. In the end, he left this world in a way that was distressing to witness.

November.] Since our establishment in this harbour but few accidents had happened to boats. On the 1st of this month, however, the longboat of the Surprise, though steered by one of the people belonging to the settlement, was overset on her passage from the cove to Parramatta, in a squall of wind she met with off Goat Island, with a number of convicts and stores on board. Fortunately, no other loss followed than that occasioned by the drowning of one very fine female goat, the property of Baker the superintendant.

November.] Since we set up in this harbor, there haven't been many accidents involving boats. However, on the 1st of this month, the longboat of the Surprise, even though it was steered by someone from the settlement, capsized while crossing from the cove to Parramatta during a wind squall near Goat Island, carrying a number of convicts and supplies. Fortunately, the only loss was a very nice female goat owned by Baker, the superintendent, who drowned.

On the following day died Mr. Thomas Freeman, the deputy-commissary of stores and provisions employed at Parramatta. He was in his fifty-third year, and in this country ended a life the greater part of which had been actively and usefully employed in the king's service. His remains were interred in the burial-ground at Parramatta, and were attended by the gentlemen of the civil department residing in that township.

On the next day, Mr. Thomas Freeman, the deputy-commissary of stores and provisions working at Parramatta, passed away. He was fifty-three years old and spent most of his life in this country serving the king. His body was buried in the burial ground at Parramatta, attended by the gentlemen from the civil department living in that area.

On the morning of the 9th the ships Resolution and Salamander left the cove, purposing to sail on their fishing voyage; soon after which, it being discovered that three convicts, Mary Morgan and John Randall and his wife, were missing, a boat was sent down the harbour to search the Resolution, on board of which ship it was said they were concealed. No person being found, the boat returned for further orders, leaving a sergeant and four men on board; but before she could return, Mr. Locke the master, after forcing the party out of his ship, got under way and stood out to sea. Mr. Irish, the master of the Salamander, did not accompany him; but came up to the town, to testify to the lieutenant-governor his uneasiness at its being supposed that he could be capable of taking any person improperly from the colony.

On the morning of the 9th, the ships Resolution and Salamander left the cove, planning to head out on their fishing trip. Shortly after, it was discovered that three convicts—Mary Morgan and John Randall along with his wife—were missing. A boat was sent down the harbor to search the Resolution, where it was rumored they were hiding. No one was found, so the boat returned for further instructions, leaving a sergeant and four men on board. However, before the boat could return, Mr. Locke, the captain, forced the party off his ship and set sail into the sea. Mr. Irish, the captain of the Salamander, did not go with him but went up to the town to express to the lieutenant-governor his concern about the assumption that he would improperly take anyone from the colony.

On the day following it appeared that several persons were missing, and two convicts in the night swam off to the Salamander, one of whom was supposed to have been drowned, but was afterwards found concealed in her hold and sent on shore. The Resolution during this time was seen hovering about the coast, either waiting for her companion, or to pick up a boat with the runaways. On the 13th, the Salamander got under way, with a southerly wind; but it falling calm when the ship was between the Heads, she drifted, and was set with the ebb tide so near the north head of the harbour as to be obliged to anchor suddenly in eighteen fathoms water. When anchored they got a kedge-anchor out, and began to heave; but the surf on the head and the swell from the sea were so great, occasioned by the late southerly winds, that in heaving the cable parted. Fortunately the stream-hawser hung her; and a breeze from the northward springing up, she was brought into the harbour with the loss of an anchor. This loss being repaired by her getting another from the Surprise, she was enabled to sail finally on the 15th.

On the day after, it seemed that several people were missing, and two convicts swam to the Salamander during the night. One was thought to have drowned but was later found hiding in the ship's hold and sent ashore. Meanwhile, the Resolution was seen lingering along the coast, either waiting for her companion or looking to pick up a boat with the escapees. On the 13th, the Salamander set sail with a southerly wind; however, it became calm while the ship was between the Heads, causing her to drift, and with the ebb tide, she ended up so close to the north head of the harbor that they had to anchor suddenly in eighteen fathoms of water. Once anchored, they managed to set out a kedge-anchor and started to heave, but the surf and swell from the sea, caused by recent southerly winds, were so violent that the cable broke while heaving. Luckily, the stream-hawser held her in place, and when a breeze came from the north, she was brought into the harbor, losing one anchor in the process. This loss was later remedied by getting another anchor from the Surprise, allowing her to eventually set sail on the 15th.

The impropriety of the conduct of the Resolution's master was so glaring, that the lieutenant-governor caused some depositions to be taken respecting it, which he purposed transmitting to the navy-board. This man had been permitted to ship as many persons from the settlement as he stated to be necessary to complete his ship's company; notwithstanding which, there was not any doubt of his having received on board, without any permission, to the number of twelve or thirteen convicts whose terms of transportation had not been served. No difficulty had ever been found by any master of a ship, who would make the proper application, in obtaining any number of hands that he might be in want of, but to take clandestinely from the settlement the useful servants of the public was ungrateful and unpardonable. It was to be hoped that government, if the facts could be substantiated against him, would make his person a severe example to other masters of ships coming to this port.

The inappropriateness of the behavior of the Resolution's captain was so obvious that the lieutenant-governor ordered some testimonies to be collected regarding it, which he intended to send to the navy board. This man had been allowed to bring on as many people from the settlement as he claimed were needed to complete his crew; however, there was no doubt that he had taken on board, without any authorization, about twelve or thirteen convicts whose sentences had not yet been completed. No ship captain had ever had trouble obtaining as many crew members as they needed if they made the right request, but secretly taking valuable public servants from the settlement was both ungrateful and unforgivable. It was hoped that the government, if the evidence could be established against him, would make an example out of him for other ship captains coming to this port.

On the 23rd, after an absence of eight weeks and two days, the Daedalus returned from Norfolk Island. Ten days of this time were passed in going thither, and sixteen in returning; the intermediate time was consumed in landing one, and receiving on board the other detachment, with their baggage.

On the 23rd, after being away for eight weeks and two days, the Daedalus came back from Norfolk Island. Ten of those days were spent getting there, and sixteen were spent coming back; the time in between was used for unloading one group and bringing aboard the other group with their luggage.

Several persons, whose sentences of transportation had expired, and who preferred residing in New South Wales, together with ten of the marine settlers, who had given up their grounds in consequence of the late disappointment which they experienced in respect of their corn bills, and had entered into the New South Wales corps, arrived in this ship.

Several people, whose sentences for transportation had ended and who chose to stay in New South Wales, along with ten marine settlers who had given up their land due to a recent letdown with their corn bills and had joined the New South Wales corps, arrived on this ship.

We understood that Phillip Island had been found to answer extremely well for the purpose of breeding stock. Some hogs which were allowed to be placed there in August 1793, the property of an individual, had increased so prodigiously, as to render the raising hogs there on account of government an object with the lieutenant-governor.

We realized that Phillip Island was perfect for breeding livestock. Some pigs that were allowed to be put there in August 1793, owned by a private individual, had multiplied so dramatically that raising pigs there for the government became a priority for the lieutenant-governor.

The Daedalus immediately began preparations for her departure for England; and Lieutenant-governor Grose signified his intention of quitting the settlement by that opportunity.

The Daedalus quickly started getting ready for its trip to England, and Lieutenant-Governor Grose indicated that he planned to leave the settlement with it.

The lieutenant-governor having set apart for each of the gentlemen who came from Scotland in the Surprise a brick hut, in a row on the east side of the cove, they took possession of their new habitations, and soon declared that they found sufficient reason for thinking their situations 'on the bleak and desolate shores of New Holland' not quite so terrible as in England they had been taught to expect.

The lieutenant-governor allocated a brick hut for each of the gentlemen who arrived from Scotland on the Surprise, lined up on the east side of the cove. They moved into their new homes and quickly stated they had good reason to believe that their location "on the bleak and desolate shores of New Holland" was not as awful as they had been led to believe back in England.

The Surprise was discharged this month from government employ, and Mr. Campbell began to prepare for making his passage to Bengal (whither he was bound) by the south cape of this country. Of the female prisoners who came out in this ship one was buried on the 21st; she had lain in of a dead child, and died shortly after of a milk fever. Her husband, a free man, came out with her to settle in the country.

The Surprise was released this month from government service, and Mr. Campbell started to get ready for his journey to Bengal (where he was headed) by way of the southern tip of this country. One of the female prisoners who came on this ship was buried on the 21st; she had given birth to a stillborn child and died shortly after from a milk fever. Her husband, a free man, came with her to start a new life in the country.

Reaping our wheat-harvest commenced this month.

Reaping our wheat harvest started this month.

December.] The people of the Mercury being perfectly recovered from the disorder which afflicted them when they arrived, that vessel sailed on the 7th of December for the north-west coast of America. The master had permission to ship five persons belonging to the colony, and on the day of his sailing several others were missing from the labouring gangs, and were supposed to have made their escape in her; but on the following morning they were all at their respective labours, not having been able to get on board.

December.] The crew of the Mercury had fully recovered from the illness they faced upon arrival, so the ship set sail on December 7th for the north-west coast of America. The captain had permission to take five people from the colony aboard, and on the day of departure, several others were unaccounted for from the work crews, leading to speculation that they had escaped on the ship. However, the next morning, they were all back at their jobs, unable to get on board.

Some of the seamen belonging to this vessel, preferring the pleasures they met with in the society of the females and the free circulation of spirituous liquors which they found on shore, to accompanying Mr. Barnet to the north-west coast of America, had left his vessel some days previous to her sailing. Application being made to the lieutenant-governor, several orders were given out calculated to induce them to return to their duty, informing them, that if they remained behind they would be certainly sent to hard labour, and the persons who had harboured them severely punished. But our settlements had now become so extensive, that orders did not so readily find their way to the settlers, as runaways and vagrants, who never failed of finding employment among them, particularly among those at the river.

Some of the crew on this ship chose the fun they found with the women and the easy access to alcohol on shore over joining Mr. Barnet on his trip to the northwest coast of America, and they had left the ship a few days before it set sail. When the lieutenant-governor was informed, he issued several orders aimed at getting them to return to duty, warning them that if they stayed behind, they would definitely be sent to hard labor, and those who helped them would face serious consequences. However, our settlements had grown so large that these orders didn't always reach the settlers quickly, as runaway sailors and vagrants easily found work among them, especially along the river.

On the 8th a farm of twenty-five acres of ground in the district of Concord was sold by public auction for thirteen pounds. Four acres were planted with Indian corn, and half an acre with potatoes; there was beside a tolerable hut on the premises. This farm was the property of Samuel Crane, a soldier, who, too industriously for himself, working on it on the Sunday preceding his death, received a hurt from a tree which fell upon him, and proved fatal.

On the 8th, a 25-acre farm in the Concord area was sold at public auction for thirteen pounds. Four acres were planted with corn, and half an acre had potatoes; there was also a decent hut on the property. This farm belonged to Samuel Crane, a soldier, who, working too hard for his own good, was injured by a falling tree while tending to it on the Sunday before his death, and it turned out to be fatal.

Every preparation for accommodating the lieutenant-governor and his family being completed on board the Daedalus, he embarked in the evening of the 15th. Previous to his departure, such convicts as were at that time confined in the cells, or who were under orders for punishment, were released; several grants of lands were signed, conveying chiefly small allotments of twenty-five acres each to such soldiers of the regiment as were desirous of, and made application for that favour; and some leases of town lots were given.

Every preparation to accommodate the lieutenant-governor and his family was finished on board the Daedalus, and he boarded in the evening of the 15th. Before he left, the convicts who were currently in the cells or under orders for punishment were released; several land grants were signed, mainly giving small parcels of twenty-five acres each to soldiers in the regiment who wanted them and applied for that favor; and some leases for town lots were also issued.

With the lieutenant-governor went Mr. White, the principal surgeon of the colony; Mr. Bain, the chaplain, in whose absence the Rev. Mr. Marsden was to do his duty; Mr. Laing, assistant-surgeon of the settlement, and mate of the New South Wales corps; three soldiers; two women, and nine men. The master of the transport had permission to ship twelve men and two women, whose sentences of transportation had expired.

With the lieutenant-governor was Mr. White, the main surgeon of the colony; Mr. Bain, the chaplain, and in his absence, the Rev. Mr. Marsden would take his place; Mr. Laing, the assistant surgeon of the settlement, and a mate of the New South Wales corps; three soldiers; two women; and nine men. The master of the transport had permission to take on twelve men and two women whose sentences of transportation had ended.

The Surprise sailed on the 17th. Mr. Campbell, being in want of hands, was allowed to receive on board sixteen men. He had shipped a greater number; but some, regardless of their own situation, and of the effect such an act might have on others, had been detected in the act of robbing the ship, and were turned on shore.

The Surprise set sail on the 17th. Mr. Campbell, needing more crew members, was permitted to bring on board sixteen men. He had originally signed on more people, but some, ignoring their own circumstances and how their actions might impact others, were caught stealing from the ship and were put ashore.

Mr. Campbell at his departure expressed his determination of trying his passage to Bengal by the south cape of this country. The route of the Daedalus was round the southern extremity of New Zealand.

Mr. Campbell, as he left, expressed his intention to travel to Bengal by way of the southern tip of this country. The path of the Daedalus was around the southern end of New Zealand.

The lieutenant-governor took with him all the documents which were necessary to lay before government to explain the state of the different settlements under his command; such as the commissary's accounts, returns of stock, remains of provisions, etc, etc.; vouchers, in fact, of that true spirit of liberality which had marked the whole of his administration of the public affairs of this settlement.

The lieutenant governor brought all the documents needed to present to the government to explain the condition of the various settlements under his command, including the commissary's accounts, stock returns, remaining provisions, and so on; essentially, proof of the genuine spirit of generosity that had characterized his entire management of the public affairs of this settlement.

Our society was much weakened by this departure of our friends; they carried with them, however, letters to our connexions, and our earnest wishes for their speedy, pleasant, and safe passage to England.

Our society was greatly weakened by the departure of our friends; they took with them letters to our relatives, along with our sincere hopes for their quick, enjoyable, and safe journey to England.

The number of small boats at this time in the settlement was considerable, although wretchedly put together. Two of them were stolen during the month by several Irish prisoners, accompanied by some who came out in the Surprise. In it they went down to the Southhead, whence they took what arms they could find, and made off to sea. In a very few days they were all brought in from the adjacent bays, and punished for their rashness and folly. No example seemed to deter these people from thinking it practicable to escape from the colony; the ill success and punishment which had befallen others affected not them, till woeful experience made it their own; and then they only regretted their ill fortune, never attributing the failure to their own ignorance and temerity.

The number of small boats in the settlement at this time was significant, even though they were badly made. Two of them were stolen during the month by a group of Irish prisoners, along with some who had come out on the Surprise. They headed down to Southhead, where they took whatever weapons they could find, and then headed out to sea. Within just a few days, all of them were caught from the nearby bays and punished for their recklessness and foolishness. No example seemed to stop these people from believing it was possible to escape from the colony; the failures and punishments that happened to others didn’t discourage them, until they faced the harsh reality themselves. Then, they only mourned their bad luck, never realizing that their failure was due to their own ignorance and boldness.

In the morning of Wednesday the 24th the signal was made at the South Head for a vessel (which they had seen the day before). She came in about three o'clock, and proved to be the Experiment, a snow from Bengal, laden with spirits, sugar, piece-goods, and a few casks of provisions; the speculation being suggested by Mr. Beyer, the agent for the Sugar Cane and Boddingtons. Those ships had arrived safely at Bengal, and had sailed thence for England.

On the morning of Wednesday the 24th, the signal was raised at South Head for a ship (which they had spotted the day before). It came in around three o'clock and turned out to be the Experiment, a snow from Bengal, carrying spirits, sugar, textiles, and a few barrels of provisions. This venture was proposed by Mr. Beyer, the agent for the Sugar Cane and Boddingtons. Those ships had made it safely to Bengal and had since set sail for England.

The Experiment had had a passage of three months from Calcutta, one month of which she had passed since she saw the southern extremity of this country.

The Experiment had been sailing from Calcutta for three months, one of which she had spent since seeing the southern tip of this country.

We learned from Mr. E. McClellan, the master, that a large ship named the Neptune had been freighted with cattle, etc in pursuance of the contract entered into with Mr. Bampton, and had sailed from Bombay in July last, but was unfortunately lost in the river by sailing against the monsoon. When Mr. Bampton might be expected was uncertain.

We learned from Mr. E. McClellan, the master, that a large ship named the Neptune had been loaded with cattle and other goods as part of the contract with Mr. Bampton. It sailed from Bombay last July but unfortunately sank in the river due to the monsoon. It was uncertain when Mr. Bampton might arrive.

The direction of the colony during the absence of the governor and lieutenant-governor devolving upon the officer highest in rank then on service in the colony, Captain William Paterson, of the New South Wales corps, on Christmas Day took the oaths prescribed by his Majesty's letters patent for the person who should so take upon him the government of the settlement. This officer, expecting every day the arrival of Governor Hunter, made no alteration in the mode of carrying on the different duties of the settlement now entrusted to his care and guidance.

The leadership of the colony during the absence of the governor and lieutenant-governor fell to the highest-ranking officer present, Captain William Paterson of the New South Wales corps. On Christmas Day, he took the oaths required by the king's letters patent for anyone assuming the government of the settlement. This officer, anticipating the arrival of Governor Hunter any day, did not change the way the various duties of the settlement were being handled under his supervision.

At the latter end of the month a general muster was ordered of all the male convicts, together with the persons who had served their several terms of transportation, as well those residing at Sydney and Parramatta, as those on the banks of the river Hawkesbury. The following ration was also ordered, the maize being nearly expended, viz.

At the end of the month, a general roll call was scheduled for all the male convicts, along with those who had completed their transportation terms, including those living in Sydney and Parramatta, as well as those along the Hawkesbury River. The following rations were also planned, as the maize supply was nearly used up, viz.

To Civil, Military, Free People, and Free Settlers
8 lbs of flour, 7 lbs of beef, or
4 lbs of pork, 3 pints of peas,
6 oz of sugar.

To Civilians, Military Personnel, Free People, and Free Settlers
8 lbs of flour, 7 lbs of beef, or
4 lbs of pork, 3 pints of peas,
6 oz of sugar.

To Male Convicts
4 lbs of flour 7 lbs of beef, or
4 lbs of pork, 3 pints of peas,
6 ozs of sugar, and 3 pints of rice.

To Male Convicts
4 lbs of flour, 7 lbs of beef, or
4 lbs of pork, 3 pints of peas,
6 oz of sugar, and 3 pints of rice.

Women and children were to receive the usual proportion, and a certain quantity of slops was directed to be issued to the male and female convicts who came out in the Surprise transport, they being very much in want of clothing.

Women and children were to get their usual share, and a specific amount of slops was ordered to be given to the male and female convicts who arrived on the Surprise transport, as they were in desperate need of clothing.

A jail gang was also ordered to be established at Toongabbie, for the employment and punishment of all bad and suspicious characters.

A prison gang was also ordered to be set up at Toongabbie, for the work and punishment of all troublemakers and suspicious individuals.

Wheat was this month directed to be purchased from the settlers at ten shillings per bushel. Much of that grain was found to have been blighted this season. The ground about Toongabbie was pronounced to be worn out, the produce of the last harvest not averaging more than six or seven bushels an acre, though at first it was computed at seventeen. The Northern farms had also failed through a blight.

Wheat was ordered this month to be bought from the settlers at ten shillings per bushel. Much of that grain was found to be damaged this season. The land around Toongabbie was said to be exhausted, yielding an average of only six or seven bushels per acre this harvest, while it was initially estimated to be seventeen. The Northern farms also suffered from damage due to blight.

Our loss by death in the year 1794 was, two settlers; four soldiers; one soldier's wife; thirty-two male convicts; ten female convicts; and ten children; making a total of fifty-nine persons.

Our loss from death in 1794 was two settlers, four soldiers, one soldier's wife, thirty-two male convicts, ten female convicts, and ten children, totaling fifty-nine people.

North view of Sydney Cove.

North view of Sydney Harbour.

CHAPTER XXVIII

Gangs sent to work on public land
The Francis sets sail
Rules for the Hawkesbury
Indigenous people
Projects
Weather
Deaths
Crops at the river
Transactions there
Indigenous people
The Francis arrives from the Cape
The Fancy comes from New Zealand
Updates
The Experiment departs for India
An indigenous person killed
Weather
Wheat
Criminal Court
Rations cut
The Britannia hired to get supplies
Indigenous people at the Hawkesbury
The Endeavour arrives with cattle from Bombay
Deaths
Reports of land planted with wheat
The Britannia sets sail for India
The Fancy for Norfolk Island
Prisoners
Casualties

1795.]

1795.

January.] From the great numbers of labouring convicts who were employed in the town of Sydney, and at the grounds about Petersham; of others employed with officers and settlers; of those who, their terms of transportation having expired, were allowed to provide for themselves; and of others who had been permitted to leave the colony, public field-labour was entirely at a stand. The present commanding officer wishing to cultivate the grounds belonging to government, collecting as many labourers as could be got together, sent a large gang, formed of bricklayers, brickmakers, timber-carriage men, etc. etc. to Parramatta and Toongabbie, there to prepare the ground for wheat for the ensuing season. At the muster which had been lately taken fifty people were found without any employment, whose services still belonged to the public; most of these were laid hold of, and sent to hard labour; and it appeared at the same time that some few were at large in the woods, runaways, and vagabonds. These people began labouring in the grounds immediately after New Year's day, which as usual was observed as a holiday.

January.] Due to the large number of convict laborers working in Sydney and around Petersham, along with others employed by officers and settlers, as well as those whose transportation terms had ended and were allowed to fend for themselves, public field labor had completely stalled. The current commanding officer, wanting to cultivate government-owned land, gathered as many laborers as possible and sent a large crew made up of bricklayers, brickmakers, timber carriers, etc., to Parramatta and Toongabbie to prepare the ground for wheat for the upcoming season. During a recent muster, fifty people were found without jobs, whose services were still owed to the public; most of these were taken and sent to hard labor. It also became clear that a few were still at large in the woods, being runaways and vagabonds. These individuals began working the fields right after New Year's Day, which was typically observed as a holiday.

On the 22nd, the convict women who had children attended at the store, when they received for each child three yards of flannel, one shirt, and two pounds of soap.

On the 22nd, the incarcerated women with children went to the store, where they received three yards of flannel, one shirt, and two pounds of soap for each child.

On the day following, the colonial schooner sailed for the river, having on board a mill, provisions, etc. for the settlers there. A military guard was also ordered, the commanding officer of which was to introduce some regulations among the settlers, and to prevent, by the effect of his presence and authority, the commission of those enormities which disgraced that settlement. For the reception of such quantity of the Indian corn and wheat grown there this season as might be purchased by government, a store-house was to be erected under the inspection of the commissary; and Baker, the superintendant who arrived in the Surprise, was sent out to take the charge of it when finished. The master of the schooner was ordered, after discharging his cargo, to receive on board Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy surveyor-general, and proceed with him to Port Stephens, for the purpose of examining that harbour.

The next day, the colonial schooner set sail for the river, carrying a mill, supplies, and other items for the settlers there. A military guard was also assigned, with the commanding officer tasked with establishing some rules among the settlers and preventing the serious issues that had tarnished the settlement. To store the quantities of Indian corn and wheat grown there this season that the government might buy, a warehouse was to be built under the oversight of the commissary. Baker, the superintendent who arrived on the Surprise, was sent to take charge of it once it was completed. After unloading his cargo, the master of the schooner was instructed to pick up Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy surveyor-general, and take him to Port Stephens to examine the harbor.

About the middle of the month a convict, on entering the door of his hut, was bit in the foot by a black snake; the effect was, an immediate swelling of the foot, leg, and thigh, and a large tumour in the groin. Mr. Thompson, the assistant-surgeon, was fortunately able to reduce all these swellings by frequently bathing the parts in oil, and saved the man's life without having recourse to amputation. While we lived in a wood, and might naturally have expected to have been troubled with them, snakes and other reptiles were by no means so often seen, as since, by clearing and opening the country about us, the natives had not had opportunities of setting the woods so frequently on fire. But now they were often met in the different paths about the settlements, basking at mid-day in the sunshine, and particularly after a shower of rain.

About the middle of the month, a convict walking into his hut got bitten in the foot by a black snake. This caused immediate swelling in his foot, leg, and thigh, along with a large lump in his groin. Luckily, Mr. Thompson, the assistant surgeon, was able to reduce all the swelling by frequently bathing the affected areas in oil, saving the man's life without needing to amputate. While we were living in the woods, we might have expected to see more snakes and other reptiles, but they were not as common back then. Since the area was cleared, the locals had less chance to set the woods on fire. Now, however, they were often spotted on the paths around the settlements, basking in the sun at midday, especially after it rained.

We heard and saw much of the natives about this time. At the Hawkesbury a man had been wounded by some of the Wood tribe. Two women (natives) were murdered not far from the town of Sydney during the night, and another victim, a female of Pe-mul-wy's party (the man who killed McIntyre), having been secured by the males of a tribe inimical to Pe-mul-wy, dragged her into the woods, where they fatigued themselves with exercising acts of cruelty and lust upon her.

We heard and saw a lot of the locals around this time. At Hawkesbury, a man was injured by some of the Wood tribe. Two women (locals) were killed not far from the town of Sydney during the night, and another victim, a woman from Pe-mul-wy's group (the man who killed McIntyre), was captured by the men of a tribe hostile to Pe-mul-wy, who dragged her into the woods, where they tired themselves out by committing acts of violence and sexual assault on her.

The principal labour performed in January was preparing the ground for wheat. The Indian corn looked every where remarkably well; it was now ripening, and the settlers on the banks of the Hawkesbury supposed that at least thirty thousand bushels of that grain would be raised among them.

The main work done in January was getting the land ready for wheat. The corn looked really good everywhere; it was now ripening, and the settlers along the Hawkesbury River believed they would harvest at least thirty thousand bushels of that grain.

Several native boys, from eight to fourteen years of age, were at this time living among the settlers in the different districts. They were found capable of being made extremely useful; they went cheerfully into the fields to labour, and the elder ones with ease hoed in a few hours a greater quantity of ground than that generally assigned to a convict for a day's work. Some of these were allowed a ration of provisions from the public stores.

Several native boys, aged eight to fourteen, were living among the settlers in various districts at this time. They proved to be incredibly helpful; they gladly worked in the fields, and the older ones could hoe a larger area in just a few hours than what was typically expected of a convict in a full day's work. Some of these boys were given a food ration from the public stores.

In consequence of the heavy rains, the river at the Hawkesbury rose many feet higher than it had been known to rise in other rains, by which several settlers were sufferers. At Toongabbie the wheat belonging to government was considerably injured. At Parramatta the damage was extensive; the bridge over the creek, which had been very well constructed, was entirely swept away; and the boats with their moorings carried down the river. At Sydney some chimneys in the new barracks fell in.

Due to the heavy rains, the river at the Hawkesbury rose several feet higher than it ever had during previous storms, causing several settlers to suffer. At Toongabbie, the government’s wheat was severely damaged. At Parramatta, the destruction was significant; the well-built bridge over the creek was completely washed away, and the boats with their moorings were carried down the river. In Sydney, some chimneys in the new barracks collapsed.

Mr. Jones, the quarter-master sergeant of the New South Wales corps, a person of much respectability, and whose general demeanor indicated an education far beyond what is met with in the sphere of life in which he moved, died this month.

Mr. Jones, the quarter-master sergeant of the New South Wales corps, a person of high respect, and whose overall manner suggested an education well beyond what is common in the social circles he was part of, died this month.

A convict lad, in the service of Mr. William Smith the store-keeper, died on the 26th, having swallowed arsenic. It was remarkable in his untimely end, that he himself placed the poison with a view of destroying the rats with which the house was infested, and was particularly cautioned against it. How he came, after that, to take it himself, was not to be accounted for.

A young convict working for Mr. William Smith, the storekeeper, died on the 26th after swallowing arsenic. What stood out about his tragic death was that he had put the poison out to kill the rats that had infested the house, despite being specifically warned against it. How he ended up consuming the poison himself is unexplained.

Baker's Farm, highland on the banks of the river.

Baker's Farm, elevated along the riverbank.

February.] Early in February, the storehouse at the Hawkesbury being completed, the provisions which had been sent round in the schooner were landed and put under the care of Baker. Some officers who had made an excursion to that settlement, with a view of selecting eligible spots for farms, on their return spoke highly of the corn which they saw growing there, and of the picturesque appearance of many of the settlers' farms. The settlers told them, that in general their grounds which had been in wheat had produced from thirty to thirty-six bushels an acre; that they found one bushel (or on some spots five pecks) of seed sufficient to sow an acre; and that, if sown as early as the month of April or May, they imagined the ground would produce a second crop, and the season be not too far advanced to ripen it. Their kitchen gardens were plentifully stocked with vegetables. The master of the schooner complained that the navigation of the river was likely to be hurt. The settlers having fallen many trees into the water, he was apprehensive they would drift ashore on some of the points of the river where, in process of time, sand, etc. might lodge against them, and form dangerous obstructions in the way of craft which might be hereafter used on the river. No doubt remained of the ill and impolitic conduct of some of the settlers toward the natives. In revenge for some cruelties which they had experienced, they threatened to put to death three of the settlers, Michael Doyle, Robert Forrester, and ---- Nixon; and had actually attacked and cruelly wounded two other settlers, George Shadrach and John Akers, whose farms and persons they mistook for those of Doyle and Forrester. These particulars were procured through the means of one Wilson, a wild idle young man, who, his term of transportation being expired, preferred living among the natives in the vicinity of the river, to earning the wages of honest industry by working for settlers. He had formed an intermediate language between his own and theirs, with which he made shift to comprehend something of what they wished him to communicate; for they did not conceal the sense they entertained of the injuries which had been done them. The tribe with whom Wilson associated had given him a name, Bun-bo-e, but none of them had taken his in exchange. As the gratifying an idle wandering disposition was the sole object with Wilson in herding with these people, no good consequence was likely to ensue from it; and it was by no means improbable, that at some future time, if disgusted with the white people, he would join the blacks, and assist them in committing depredations, or make use of their assistance to punish or revenge his own injuries. Mr. Grimes purposed taking him with him in the schooner to Port Stephens.

February.] Early in February, the storehouse at Hawkesbury was finished, so the provisions that had been sent around on the schooner were unloaded and put in Baker's care. Some officers who visited that settlement, looking to choose good spots for farms, came back praising the corn they saw growing and the attractive look of many settlers' farms. The settlers told them that, generally, their wheat fields produced between thirty and thirty-six bushels per acre; they found that one bushel (or five pecks in some places) of seed was enough to plant an acre; and if sown as early as April or May, they thought the land would yield a second crop before the season got too late for it to ripen. Their kitchen gardens were filled with vegetables. The captain of the schooner complained that the river navigation could be negatively impacted. The settlers had felled many trees into the water, and he feared they might drift to the riverbanks where, over time, sand and other debris could collect around them, creating hazardous obstructions for boats that might use the river in the future. There were no doubts about the poor and unwise actions of some settlers toward the natives. In retaliation for some wrongs they suffered, the natives threatened to kill three settlers: Michael Doyle, Robert Forrester, and ---- Nixon; and they had actually attacked and badly injured two other settlers, George Shadrach and John Akers, whom they mistook for Doyle and Forrester. These details came from one Wilson, a young man with a reckless lifestyle, who, with his transportation period over, preferred living among the natives by the river rather than working for settlers. He managed to create a sort of mixed language between his own and theirs to understand some of what they wanted him to share; they didn't hide how they felt about the injuries they suffered. The tribe Wilson hung out with gave him the name Bun-bo-e, but none of them took his name in return. Since satisfying his idle, wandering nature was Wilson's only goal in associating with these people, no positive outcome was likely; and it was very possible that in the future, if he became disillusioned with the white people, he'd join the natives and help them commit robberies or use their support to get revenge for his own grievances. Mr. Grimes planned to take him with him on the schooner to Port Stephens.

There were at this time several convicts in the woods subsisting by theft; and it being said that three had been met with arms, it became necessary to secure them as soon as possible. Watchmen and other people immediately went out, and in the afternoon of the 14th a wretched fellow of the name of Suffini was killed by one of them. This circumstance drove the rest to a greater distance from Sydney, and they were reported, some days afterwards, to have been met on their route to the river. Suffini would not have been shot at, had he not refused to surrender when called to by the watchman while in the act of plundering a garden.

There were several convicts in the woods at this time living by stealing, and because it was reported that three had been seen with weapons, it became crucial to catch them as soon as possible. Watchmen and other people immediately went out, and in the afternoon of the 14th, a poor man named Suffini was killed by one of them. This incident drove the others further away from Sydney, and they were reported days later to have been seen on their way to the river. Suffini wouldn’t have been shot if he hadn’t refused to surrender when the watchman called to him while he was stealing from a garden.

About the latter end of the month the natives adjusted some affairs of honour in a convenient spot near the brick-fields. The people who live about the south shore of Botany Bay brought with them a stranger of an extraordinary appearance and character; even his name had something extraordinary in the sound--Gome-boak. He had been several days on his journey from the place where he lived, which was far to the southward. In height he was not more than five feet two or three inches; but he was by far the most muscular, square, and well-formed native we had ever seen. He fought well; his spears were remarkably long, and he defended himself with a shield that covered his whole body. We had the satisfaction of seeing him engaged with some of our Sydney friends, and of observing that neither their persons nor reputations suffered any thing in the contest. When the fight was over, on our praising to them the martial talents of this stranger, the strength and muscle of his arm, and the excellence of his sight, they admitted the praise to be just (because when opposed to them he had not gained the slightest advantage); but, unwilling that we should think too highly of him, they assured us, with horror in their countenances, that Gome-boak was a cannibal.*

About the end of the month, the locals settled some issues of honor in a convenient spot near the brick-fields. The people living along the south shore of Botany Bay brought with them a stranger of remarkable appearance and character; even his name sounded unique—Gome-boak. He had been traveling for several days from his home, which was far to the south. He stood about five feet two or three inches tall, but he was by far the most muscular, well-built native we had ever seen. He was a skilled fighter; his spears were notably long, and he defended himself with a shield that covered his entire body. We were pleased to watch him spar with some of our Sydney friends, noticing that neither their bodies nor reputations endured any damage during the match. After the fight, when we complimented our friends on this stranger's fighting skills, his strength, and excellent eyesight, they agreed with us (since he hadn’t gained any advantage against them); however, wanting to temper our impression of him, they assured us, with horror on their faces, that Gome-boak was a cannibal.*

[* Gome-boak, we learned, was afterwards killed among his own people in some affair to the southward.]

[* We later found out that Gome-boak was killed among his own people in an incident to the south.]

March.] On the 1st of March the Francis returned from Port Stephens. Mr. Grimes reported, that he went into two fresh-water branches, up which he rowed, until, at no very great distance from the entrance, he found them terminate in a swamp. He described the land on each side to be low and sandy, and had seen nothing while in this harbour which in his opinion could render a second visit necessary. The natives were so very unfriendly, that he made but few observations on them. He thought they were a taller and a stouter race of people than those about this settlement, and their language was entirely different. Their huts and canoes were something larger than those which we had seen here; their weapons were the same. They welcomed him on shore with a dance, joined hand in hand, round a tree, to express perhaps their unanimity; but one of them afterwards, drawing Mr. Grimes into the wood, poised a spear, and was on the point of throwing it, when he was prevented by young Wilson, who, having followed Mr. Grimes with a double-barrelled gun, levelled at the native, and fired it. He was supposed to be wounded, for he fell; but rising again, he attempted a second time to throw the spear, and was again prevented by Wilson. The effect of this second shot was supposed to be conclusive, as he was not seen to rise any more. Mr. Grimes got back to his boat without any other interruption.

March.] On March 1st, the Francis came back from Port Stephens. Mr. Grimes reported that he explored two fresh-water branches, rowing until he found they ended in a swamp not far from the entrance. He described the land on both sides as low and sandy, and he saw nothing in the harbor that he thought would warrant a return visit. The locals were so unfriendly that he didn't make many observations about them. He noted that they were taller and stronger than those at this settlement, and their language was completely different. Their huts and canoes were somewhat larger than what we had seen here; their weapons were the same. They welcomed him ashore with a dance, holding hands in a circle around a tree, possibly to show their unity. However, one of them later lured Mr. Grimes into the woods, aimed a spear, and was about to throw it when he was stopped by young Wilson, who had followed Mr. Grimes with a double-barrel shotgun and fired at the native. It was believed he was wounded, as he fell, but then got up again and tried to throw the spear for a second time before Wilson stopped him again. This second shot seemed to be final, as he was not seen to get up again. Mr. Grimes made it back to his boat without any further incidents.

Mr. House in his way thither ran close along the shore, and saw not any shelter for a ship or vessel from Broken Bay to Port Stephens. The schooner was only fourteen hours on her return.

Mr. House made his way there by running along the shore and didn’t see any shelter for a ship or vessel from Broken Bay to Port Stephens. The schooner was only fourteen hours into its return.

About this time, the spirit of inquiry being on foot, Mr. Cummings, an officer of the corps, made an excursion to the southward of Botany Bay, and brought back with him some of the head bones of a marine animal, which, on inspection, Captain Paterson, the only naturalist in the country, pronounced to have belonged to the animal described by M. de Buffon, and named by him the Manatee. On this excursion Mr. Cummings received some information which led him to believe that the cattle that had been lost soon after our arrival were in existence. The natives who conversed with him were so particular in their account of having seen a large animal with horns, that he shortly after, taking some of them with him as guides, set off to seek them, but returned without success, not having met with any trace that could lead him to suppose they might ever be found.

Around this time, with curiosity in the air, Mr. Cummings, an officer in the corps, took a trip south of Botany Bay and returned with some skull bones from a marine animal. After examining them, Captain Paterson, the only naturalist in the area, identified them as belonging to the creature described by M. de Buffon and named the Manatee. During this trip, Mr. Cummings learned something that made him think the cattle that had gone missing shortly after we arrived were still alive. The locals he spoke to were very specific about having seen a large animal with horns, so he soon set off with some of them as guides to find it, but came back empty-handed, having found no clues that suggested they could still be out there.

On the 4th the Britannia returned from the Cape of Good Hope, having been absent six months and three days. Mr. Raven brought alive to his employers, one stallion, twenty-nine mares, three fillies, and twelve sheep. He sailed from the Cape with forty mares on board; but those that died were the worst, and had not been kept up long enough on dry food before they were embarked.

On the 4th, the Britannia returned from the Cape of Good Hope, after being away for six months and three days. Mr. Raven brought back for his employers one stallion, twenty-nine mares, three fillies, and twelve sheep. He had set sail from the Cape with forty mares on board; however, the ones that died were the weakest and hadn’t been fed dry food long enough before boarding.

It was evident, on visiting the ship, that every attention had been paid to their accommodation; but horses were generally supposed better calculated than other cattle to endure the weather usually met with between the Cape and this country*.

It was clear, when visiting the ship, that every detail had been considered for their comfort; but horses were generally considered better suited than other animals to handle the weather typically experienced between the Cape and this country*.

[* It may be remembered, that in a former voyage to the Cape on a similar errand, she lost twenty-nine cows.]

[* It's worth noting that during a previous trip to the Cape for a similar purpose, she lost twenty-nine cows.]

We had the gratification of hearing that our fleet under Earl Howe had been victorious in a gallant and severe action with the enemy.

We were pleased to hear that our fleet, led by Earl Howe, had won a brave and tough battle against the enemy.

On the 15th, when anxiously expecting an arrival from England, we saw Mr. Dell come to anchor in the cove from Norfolk Island.

On the 15th, while anxiously waiting for someone to arrive from England, we saw Mr. Dell anchor in the cove after coming from Norfolk Island.

Though this arrival proved a disappointment to most of us, yet the information we received by it was rather interesting. We now learned, that Mr. Dell had been at New Zealand, where he passed three months in the river named by Captain Cook the Thames, employed in cutting spars, for the purpose (as was conjectured here at the time of his departure) of freighting such ship as might arrive from India on Mr. Bampton's account. In the course of that time they cut down upwards of two hundred very fine trees, from sixty to one hundred and forty feet in length, fit for any use that the East India Company's ships might require. The longest of these trees measured three feet and a half in the butt, and differed from the Norfolk Island pines in having the turpentine in the centre of the tree instead of between the bark and the wood. From the natives they received very little interruption, being only upon one occasion obliged to fire on them. Like other uncivilised people, these islanders saw no crime in theft, and stole some axes from the people employed on shore, gratifying thereby their predilection for iron, which, strange as it may sound to us, they would have preferred to gold. Unfortunately, iron was too precious even here to part with, unless for an equivalent; and it became necessary to convince them of it. Two men and one woman were killed, the seamen who fired on them declaring (in their usual enlarged style of relation) that they had driven off and pursued upwards of three thousand of these cannibals. They readily parted with any quantity of their flax, bartering it for iron. As the valuable qualities of this flax were well known, it was not uninteresting to us to learn, that so small a vessel as the Fancy had lain at an anchor for three months in the midst of numerous and warlike tribes of savages, without any attempt on their part to become the masters; and that an intercourse might safely and advantageously be opened between them and the colonists of New South Wales, whenever proper materials and persons should be sent out to manufacture the flax, if the governor of that country should ever think it an object worthy of his attention.

Though this arrival disappointed most of us, the information we received was quite interesting. We learned that Mr. Dell had been in New Zealand, where he spent three months on the river Captain Cook named the Thames, cutting timber to possibly ship back for Mr. Bampton when a ship arrived from India. During that time, they cut down over two hundred very fine trees, each between sixty and one hundred forty feet long, suitable for any use the East India Company might need. The longest tree measured three and a half feet at the base and was different from the Norfolk Island pines in that the turpentine was found in the center of the tree rather than between the bark and wood. They faced very little interruption from the natives, having only had to fire on them once. Like other uncivilized people, these islanders saw no crime in theft and stole some axes from the workers onshore, showing their preference for iron over gold, which may sound strange to us. Unfortunately, iron was too valuable even here to trade without a good exchange, so they needed convincing. Two men and one woman were killed, and the seamen who fired on them claimed (in their typical exaggerated storytelling) to have driven off and chased about three thousand of these cannibals. They were willing to trade any amount of their flax for iron. Since the valuable qualities of this flax were well known, it was fascinating to learn that such a small vessel as the Fancy had anchored for three months among numerous and warlike tribes of savages without any attempt at dominance; and that a safe and beneficial trade could be established between them and the colonists of New South Wales whenever appropriate materials and people were sent to process the flax, if the governor of that region ever saw it as a worthy endeavor.

From New Zealand the Fancy proceeded to Norfolk Island, and now came hither in the hope of meeting with, or hearing of Mr. Bampton.

From New Zealand, the Fancy went to Norfolk Island and has now come here in hopes of meeting or hearing about Mr. Bampton.

From that settlement we gained the following information:

From that settlement, we got the following information:

The Salamander touched there, and the Resolution appeared off the island, but had no communication with the shore.

The Salamander arrived there, and the Resolution showed up near the island, but there was no contact with the shore.

A heavy gale of wind, accompanied with a slight shock of the earth, had done considerable damage, washing away a very useful wharf and crane at Cascade, but which the governor meant immediately to replace.

A strong windstorm, along with a minor earthquake, caused significant damage, sweeping away a valuable wharf and crane at Cascade, but the governor planned to replace them right away.

The produce of the wheat this season on government's account amounted to three thousand bushels, and that of settlers to fifteen hundred. The Indian corn promised a very plentiful crop; but the settlers were much discouraged by their bills of the last year remaining still unpaid. Much of that corn was obliged to be surveyed, and two thousand bushels had been condemned.

The wheat harvest this season for the government totaled three thousand bushels, while the settlers produced fifteen hundred. The corn looked like it would yield a great crop, but the settlers were really discouraged because their bills from last year were still unpaid. A lot of that corn had to be inspected, and two thousand bushels were found to be unacceptable.

Swine were increasing so rapidly on Phillip Island, now stocked by government, that Mr. King thought he should be able for some time to issue fresh pork during four days in the week. The flour was expended; of salt meat there was a sufficiency in store for eight months. The whole number of persons on the island amounted to nine hundred and forty-five.

Swine were multiplying so quickly on Phillip Island, now populated by the government, that Mr. King believed he would be able to provide fresh pork four days a week for quite some time. The flour had run out; there was enough salt meat stored for eight months. The total number of people on the island was nine hundred and forty-five.

A convict well known in this settlement, Benjamin Ingraham, being detected in the act of housebreaking, put an end to his own existence by hanging himself, thus terminating by his own hand a life of wretchedness and villany.

A convict well known in this settlement, Benjamin Ingraham, was caught breaking into a house and ended his own life by hanging himself, thus ending a life of misery and wrongdoing by his own choice.

On the 17th St. Patrick found many votaries in the settlement. Some Cape brandy lately imported in the Britannia appeared to have arrived very seasonably; and libations to the saint were so plentifully poured, that at night the cells were full of prisoners.

On the 17th, St. Patrick found a lot of supporters in the settlement. Some Cape brandy that had just been imported on the Britannia seemed to have arrived at the perfect time; and offerings to the saint were poured so generously that by night, the cells were full of prisoners.

Settlers, and other persons who had Indian corn to dispose of, were this month informed, that they would receive five shillings per bushel for all they might bring to the public stores. They were likewise told, that a preference would be given to those who had disposed of their wheat to government.

Settlers and others with Indian corn to sell were informed this month that they would receive five shillings per bushel for all they brought to the public stores. They were also told that those who had sold their wheat to the government would be given preference.

On the 23rd the Experiment sailed for India. Mr. McClellan had been with his vessel to the Hawkesbury, where he had taken in sixty large logs of the tree which we had named the cedar. He had also purchased some of the mahogany of this country. Whether cedar and mahogany were or were not to be readily procured at Bengal, ought to have been well known to this gentleman before he put himself to the trouble, delay, and expence of procuring such a quantity*; but it was here generally looked upon as a speculation that would not produce him much profit.

On the 23rd, the Experiment set sail for India. Mr. McClellan had taken his ship to the Hawkesbury, where he loaded up on sixty large logs of the tree we called cedar. He also bought some of the local mahogany. Whether cedar and mahogany were easy to find in Bengal should have been clear to him before he went through the hassle, delay, and expense of getting such a large quantity; however, people generally thought of it as a venture that wouldn’t yield much profit.

[* He was to allow one hundred pounds for as many trees; but we understood that it was to be in the way of barter with articles, sugar, spirits, etc.]

[* He was going to allocate one hundred pounds for as many trees; but we understood that it would be done through barter with goods like sugar, alcohol, etc.]

On the day of his sailing, suspecting (as was reported) some design to seize his vessel, he sent on shore three people whom he had shipped here. They rendezvoused at a hut in the town occupied by one John Chapman Morris; and, on searching it, in the bed of one of them were found a dozen of new Indian shirts marked D. W.; twenty-two new pulicate handkerchiefs; and three pieces of striped gingham. On the possessor being questioned, he said, that they were sold to him while he was at Norfolk Island by the steward of Captain Manning's ship, the Pitt. As this was a very improbable story, the house they were in was ordered by the commanding officer to be pulled down. The property, having been disclaimed by Mr. McClennan, was lodged with the provost-marshal; and the parties given to understand, that a reference would be made to Norfolk Island by the first opportunity.

On the day he was supposed to set sail, suspecting (as was reported) that there was a plan to take his ship, he sent three people who he had hired to the shore. They met up at a hut in the town owned by a guy named John Chapman Morris; and when they searched it, they found a dozen new Indian shirts marked D. W. in the bed of one of them; twenty-two new pulicate handkerchiefs; and three pieces of striped gingham. When the owner was questioned, he claimed that they were sold to him while he was at Norfolk Island by the steward of Captain Manning's ship, the Pitt. Since this story seemed very unlikely, the commanding officer ordered the hut to be torn down. The items, which Mr. McClennan refused to claim, were turned over to the provost-marshal; and the individuals were informed that a referral would be made to Norfolk Island at the first opportunity.

On the 26th, some of our people witnessed an extraordinary transaction which took place among the natives at the brick-fields. A young man of the name of Bing-yi-wan-ne, well known in the settlement, being detected in the crisis of an amour with Maw-ber-ry, the companion of another native, Ye-ra-ni-be Go-ru-ey, the latter fell upon him with a club, and being a powerful man, and of superior strength, absolutely beat him to death. Bing-yi-wan-ne had some friends, who on the following day called Ye-ra-ni-be to an account for the murder; when, the affair being conducted with more regard to honour than justice, he came off with only a spear-wound in his thigh.

On the 26th, some of our people saw an unusual incident that happened among the locals at the brick-fields. A young man named Bing-yi-wan-ne, who was well-known in the settlement, was caught in an affair with Maw-ber-ry, the partner of another local, Ye-ra-ni-be Go-ru-ey. Ye-ra-ni-be attacked him with a club and, being a strong and powerful man, ended up beating him to death. Bing-yi-wan-ne had some friends who, the next day, confronted Ye-ra-ni-be about the murder. In a situation that prioritized honor over justice, Ye-ra-ni-be only ended up with a spear wound in his thigh.

The farmers began gathering their Indian corn about the latter end of this month. The weather during the former and latter part of it was wet. About the time of the equinox, the tides in the cove were observed to be very high.

The farmers started harvesting their corn towards the end of this month. The weather was rainy during the beginning and the end of the month. Around the equinox, the tides in the cove were noted to be very high.

On the 28th Thomas Webb, a settler, who had removed from his farm at Liberty Plains to another on the banks of the Hawkesbury, was dangerously wounded there, while working on his grounds by some of the wood natives, who had previously plundered his but. About the same time a party of these people threw a spear at some soldiers who were going up the river in a small boat. All these unpleasant circumstances were to be attributed to the ill treatment the natives had received from the settlers.

On the 28th, Thomas Webb, a settler who had moved from his farm at Liberty Plains to another one by the Hawkesbury River, was seriously wounded while working on his land by some local Indigenous people, who had previously raided his hut. Around the same time, a group of these individuals threw a spear at some soldiers who were traveling up the river in a small boat. All these unfortunate events were due to the mistreatment the Indigenous people had faced from the settlers.

At Prospect Hill a woman was bitten by a snake; but by the timely application of some volatile salts by Mr. Irving, her life was saved.

At Prospect Hill, a woman was bitten by a snake; but thanks to Mr. Irving quickly applying some volatile salts, her life was saved.

April.] It was determined to let the Toongabbie Hills remain fallow for a season, they being reported to be worn out. Other ground, which had been prepared, was now sown; a spot called the Ninety Acres, and the hills between Parramatta and Toongabbie.

April.] It was decided to leave the Toongabbie Hills untouched for a season, as they had been reported to be exhausted. Other land that had been prepared was now planted; a area known as the Ninety Acres, along with the hills between Parramatta and Toongabbie.

Western view of Toongabbie.

Toongabbie, as seen from the west.

On the 15th, a criminal court was assembled for the trial of John Anderson and Joseph Marshall, settlers; and John Hyams, Joseph Dunstill, Richard Watson, and Morgan Bryan, convicts; for a rape committed on the body of one Mary Hartley, at the Hawkesbury. The court was obliged to acquit the prisoners, owing to glaring contradiction in the witnesses, no two of them, though several were examined, agreeing in the same point. But as such a crime could not be passed with impunity, they were recommitted, and on the 22nd tried for an assault, of which being very clearly convicted, the two settlers and Morgan Bryan were sentenced to receive each five hundred lashes, and the others three hundred each; of which sentence they received one half, and were forgiven the remainder. This was a most infamous transaction; and, though the sufferer was of bad character, would have well warranted the infliction of capital punishment on one of the offenders, if the witnesses had not prevaricated in their testimony. They appeared to have cast off all the feelings of civilised humanity, adopting as closely as they could follow them the manners of the savage inhabitants of the country. One prisoner, John Rayner, was also tried for a burglary, and being convicted received sentence of death.

On the 15th, a criminal court convened to try John Anderson and Joseph Marshall, settlers; and John Hyams, Joseph Dunstill, Richard Watson, and Morgan Bryan, convicts; for a rape committed against Mary Hartley at Hawkesbury. The court had to acquit the defendants due to obvious contradictions among the witnesses, as not a single one of them, despite multiple examinations, could agree on the same point. However, because such a crime couldn’t go unpunished, they were recharged, and on the 22nd, they were tried for assault. After being clearly found guilty, the two settlers and Morgan Bryan were each sentenced to five hundred lashes, while the others received three hundred each; they endured half of their sentence and were pardoned for the rest. This was a truly heinous incident; and although the victim had a questionable reputation, it would have justified the death penalty for one of the offenders if the witnesses had not distorted the facts. They seemed to have completely lost any sense of civilized humanity, mimicking as closely as possible the behaviors of the savage inhabitants of the land. Another defendant, John Rayner, was also tried for burglary and, upon conviction, received a death sentence.

On the 29th, a liberal allowance of slops was issued to the male and female convicts in the different settlements, among which were some soap to the men, and some thread, tape, and soap to the women.

On the 29th, a generous amount of scraps was given to the male and female convicts in the various settlements, including some soap for the men, and some thread, tape, and soap for the women.

A shed for the purpose of receiving their Indian corn was this month begun by the settlers at the river, they and their servants bringing in the materials, and government supplying the carpenters, tools, nails, etc.

A shed for storing their Indian corn was started this month by the settlers at the river, with them and their workers bringing in the materials, while the government provided the carpenters, tools, nails, and so on.

The farmers now every where began putting their wheat into the ground, except at the river, where they had scarcely made any preparations, consuming their time and substance in drinking and rioting; and trusting to the extreme fertility of the soil, which they declared would produce an ample crop at any time without much labour. So silly and thoughtless were these people, who were thus unworthily placed on the banks of a river which, from its fertility and the effect of its inundations, might not improperly be termed the Nile of New South Wales.

The farmers everywhere started planting their wheat, except by the river, where they had hardly done any work, wasting their time and resources on drinking and partying. They relied on the rich soil, convinced it would yield a great harvest without much effort. These people were so foolish and careless, being placed alongside a river that, due to its productivity and the impact of its floods, could rightly be called the Nile of New South Wales.

May.] From the reduced state of the salted provisions, it became necessary (such had often been the preamble of an order) to diminish the ration of that article weekly to each person, and half the beef and half the pork was stopped at once. In some measure to make this great deduction lighter, three pints of peas were added. This circumstance induced the commanding officer, on the day this alteration took place, to hire the Britannia to proceed to India for a cargo of salted provisions. Supplies might arrive before she could return; but the war increased the chances against us. He therefore took her up at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month; and, in order to save as much salt meat as was possible, he directed the commissary to purchase such fresh pork as the settlers and others might bring in good condition to the store, issuing two pounds of fresh, in lieu of one of salt meat. During the time this order continued, a barrow was killed and part sent to the store, which weighed five hundred pounds, and a sow which weighed three hundred and thirty-six pounds. They had both been fed a considerable time* on Indian corn, and, according to the rate they sold at (the pork one shilling per pound, and the corn five shillings per bushel) could neither of them have repaid the expence of their feed.

May.] Due to the dwindling supply of salted provisions, it became necessary (which often preceded a change in orders) to reduce the weekly ration of that item for each person, and both beef and pork rations were cut by half immediately. To make this huge reduction a little easier, three pints of peas were added. This situation prompted the commanding officer, on the day the change was made, to hire the Britannia to go to India for a shipment of salted provisions. Supplies might arrive before she could come back, but the war raised the risks against us. He therefore hired her at fifteen shillings and sixpence per ton per month, and to save as much salted meat as possible, he instructed the commissary to buy any fresh pork that settlers and others could bring in good condition to the store, providing two pounds of fresh meat in exchange for one pound of salt meat. During this time, a barrow was killed and part of it was sent to the store, weighing five hundred pounds, along with a sow that weighed three hundred and thirty-six pounds. They had both been fed for quite a while on Indian corn, and based on the selling prices (pork at one shilling per pound, and corn at five shillings per bushel), neither would have covered the cost of their feed.

[* The barrow two years and a half, and the sow about two years.]

[* The barrow is two and a half years old, and the sow is about two years old.]

On the 21st the colonial schooner returned from the Hawkesbury, bringing upwards of eleven hundred bushels of remarkably fine Indian corn from the store there. The master again reported his apprehensions that the navigation of the river would be obstructed by the settlers, who continued the practice of falling and rolling trees into the stream. He found five feet less water at the store-wharf than when he was there in February last, owing to the dry weather which had for some time past prevailed.

On the 21st, the colonial schooner came back from the Hawkesbury, bringing over eleven hundred bushels of excellent Indian corn from the store there. The captain again expressed his concerns that the river navigation would be blocked by the settlers, who kept cutting down and rolling trees into the water. He noticed five feet less water at the store wharf than when he was there last February, due to the dry weather that had been ongoing for a while.

At that settlement an open war seemed about this time to have commenced between the natives and the settlers; and word was received over-land, that two people were killed by them; one a settler of the name of Wilson, and the other a freeman, one William Thorp, who had been left behind from the Britannia, and had hired himself to this Wilson as a labourer. The natives appeared in large bodies, men, women, and children, provided with blankets and nets to carry off the corn, of which they appeared as fond as the natives who lived among us, and seemed determined to take it whenever and wherever they could meet with opportunities. In their attacks they conducted themselves with much art; but where that failed they had recourse to force, and on the least appearance of resistance made use of their spears or clubs. To check at once, if possible, these dangerous depredators, Captain Paterson directed a party of the corps to be sent from Parramatta, with instructions to destroy as many as they could meet with of the wood tribe (Be-dia-gal); and, in the hope of striking terror, to erect gibbets in different places, whereon the bodies of all they might kill were to be hung. It was reported, that several of these people were killed in consequence of this order; but none of their bodies being found, (perhaps if any were killed they were carried off by their companions,) the number could not be ascertained. Some prisoners however were taken, and sent to Sydney; one man, (apparently a cripple,) five women, and some children. One of the women, with a child at her breast, had been shot through the shoulder, and the same shot had wounded the babe. They were immediately placed in a hut near our hospital, and every care taken of them that humanity suggested. The man was said, instead of being a cripple, to have been very active about the farms, and instrumental in some of the murders which had been committed. In a short time he found means to escape, and by swimming reached the north shore in safety; whence, no doubt, he got back to his friends. Captain Paterson hoped, by detaining the prisoners and treating them well, that some good effect might result; but finding, after some time, that coercion, not attention, was more likely to answer his ends, he sent the women back. While they were with us, the wounded child died, and one of the women was delivered of a boy, which died immediately. On our withdrawing the party, the natives attacked a farm nearly opposite Richmond Hill, belonging to one William Rowe, and put him and a very fine child to death, the wife, after receiving several wounds, crawled down the bank, and concealed herself among some reeds half immersed in the river, where she remained a considerable time without assistance: being at length found, this poor creature, after having seen her husband and her child slaughtered before her eyes, was brought into the hospital at Parramatta, where she recovered, though slowly, of her wounds. In consequence of this horrid circumstance, another party of the corps was sent out; and while they were there the natives kept at a distance. This duty now became permanent; and the soldiers were distributed among the settlers for their protection; a protection, however, that many of them did not merit.

At that settlement, it seemed like an open war had started around this time between the natives and the settlers. News came in that two people had been killed by them: one was a settler named Wilson, and the other was a freeman, William Thorp, who had been left behind from the Britannia and had hired himself to Wilson as a laborer. The natives appeared in large groups—men, women, and children—carrying blankets and nets to take away the corn, which they seemed to love as much as the natives living among us, and they looked determined to take it whenever they had the chance. In their attacks, they acted with cleverness, but when that didn’t work, they resorted to force and used their spears or clubs at the slightest sign of resistance. To quickly deal with these dangerous raiders, Captain Paterson ordered a party from Parramatta to be sent with instructions to kill as many of the wood tribe (Be-dia-gal) as they could find. In the hope of instilling fear, they were also to set up gibbets in various places to hang the bodies of those they killed. It was reported that several of these people were killed because of this order, but since no bodies were found—perhaps they were taken away by their companions—the actual number could not be determined. Some prisoners were taken and sent to Sydney: one man (who appeared to be a cripple), five women, and some children. One of the women, with a baby at her breast, had been shot in the shoulder, and the same bullet had injured the baby. They were quickly placed in a hut near our hospital, and every effort was made to care for them as compassion dictated. The man was said to be not a cripple but very active on the farms and involved in some of the murders that had occurred. Soon, he managed to escape and swam to the north shore safely, from where he likely returned to his friends. Captain Paterson hoped that by keeping the prisoners and treating them well, some positive outcome could be achieved, but after a while, he realized that coercion rather than care was more likely to work, so he sent the women back. While they were with us, the injured child died, and one of the women gave birth to a boy, who also died immediately. When we withdrew the party, the natives attacked a farm almost directly across from Richmond Hill, owned by one William Rowe, brutally killing him and a very young child. The wife, after sustaining several wounds, managed to crawl down the bank and hide among some reeds that were partly underwater, where she remained a long time without help. Eventually found, this poor woman, having witnessed the slaughter of her husband and child, was taken to the hospital at Parramatta, where she slowly began to recover from her wounds. In response to this dreadful event, another party was sent out, and while they were there, the natives kept their distance. This duty became ongoing, and the soldiers were assigned to protect the settlers—though many of them did not deserve such protection.

Pemulwy, or some of his party, were not idle about Sydney; they even ventured to appear within half a mile of the brickfield huts, and wound a convict who was going to a neighbouring farm on business. As one of our most frequent walks from the town was in that direction, this circumstance was rather unpleasant; but the natives were not seen there again.

Pemulwy, or some members of his group, weren’t just sitting around in Sydney; they even dared to come within half a mile of the brickfield huts, and they shot a convict who was heading to a nearby farm on business. Since one of our regular walks from town was in that direction, this situation was a bit concerning; however, the natives were not seen there again.

On Sunday the 31st, about one o'clock, the signal was made at the South Head for a sail; and about five there anchored in the cove the Endeavour, a ship of eight hundred tons from Bombay, under the command of Mr. Bampton, having on board one hundred and thirty-two head of cattle, a quantity of rice, and the other articles of the contract engaged by Lieutenant-governor Grose, except the salt provisions. She had been eleven weeks from Bombay.

On Sunday the 31st, around one o'clock, a signal was sent out from South Head for a ship; by about five, the Endeavour, an eight-hundred-ton vessel from Bombay, anchored in the cove. It was under the command of Mr. Bampton and carried one hundred and thirty-two heads of cattle, a load of rice, and other items outlined in the contract with Lieutenant-governor Grose, except for the salt provisions. The ship had been at sea for eleven weeks since leaving Bombay.

The cattle arrived, in general, in good condition; and Mr. Bampton had been very successful in his care of them. He embarked one hundred and thirty at Bombay, out of which he lost but one cow, and that died the morning before his arrival.

The cattle arrived mostly in good shape, and Mr. Bampton had done a great job taking care of them. He shipped one hundred and thirty from Bombay, losing only one cow, which died the morning before he got there.

On visiting the ship, the sight was truly gratifying; the cattle were ranged on each side of the gun-deck, fore and aft, and not confined in separate stalls; but so conveniently stowed, that they were a support to each other. They were well provided with mats, and were constantly cleaned; and when the ship tacked, the cattle which were to leeward were regularly laid with their heads to windward, by people (twenty in number) particularly appointed to look after them, independent of any duty in the ship. The grain which was their food was, together with their water, regularly given to them, and the deck they stood on was well aired, by scuttles in the sides, and by wind sails.*

On visiting the ship, the view was truly pleasing; the cattle were positioned on either side of the gun deck, both fore and aft, rather than being kept in separate stalls. They were arranged in such a way that they supported one another. The cattle had plenty of mats, and they were regularly cleaned. When the ship changed direction, the cattle on the leeward side were always arranged with their heads facing the wind by a team of twenty people specifically assigned to take care of them, apart from any other duties on the ship. Their food, consisting of grain, along with their water, was provided for them regularly, and the deck they stood on was well-ventilated through openings in the sides and by wind sails.*

[* These circumstances are mentioned so particularly, in the hope that they may prove useful hints to any persons intending, or who may be in future employed, to convey cattle from India, or any other part of the world, to New South Wales.]

[* These details are mentioned specifically in the hope that they may provide useful tips to anyone planning to transport cattle from India or any other part of the world to New South Wales in the future.]

Of this number of cattle forty were for draught, sixty for breeding, and the remainder calves; but some of them so large, as to be valued and taken at fifteen guineas per head.

Of this number of cattle, forty were for work, sixty for breeding, and the rest were calves; but some of them were so large that they were valued and priced at fifteen guineas each.

On their landing, we were concerned to find that many of the draught cattle were very aged; they were, it was true, in health; but younger animals undoubtedly ought to have been procured; for of little use could toothless, old, and blind beasts be to us.

On their arrival, we were worried to see that many of the draft cattle were quite old; they were healthy, it's true, but we definitely should have gotten younger animals instead, because toothless, old, and blind animals wouldn't be of much use to us.

At the settlement at the Hawkesbury, a woman who had been drinking was found dead in her husband's arms. Webb the settler, who was wounded in March last, died; and one settler (Rowe) and his child were killed in this month.

At the settlement at the Hawkesbury, a woman who had been drinking was found dead in her husband's arms. Webb the settler, who was injured last March, passed away; and one settler (Rowe) and his child were killed this month.

June.] On the 4th of this month, being the anniversary of his Majesty's birth, the commissary issued to each of the non-commissioned officers and privates of the New South Wales corps, one pound of fresh pork and half a pint of spirits; and to all other people victualled from the store one gill each. At noon the regiment fired three volleys; and at one o'clock the Britannia and Fancy twenty-one guns each in honour of the day.

June.] On the 4th of this month, which is the anniversary of the King’s birthday, the commissary gave each of the non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the New South Wales corps one pound of fresh pork and half a pint of spirits; and to everyone else who received supplies from the store, one gill each. At noon, the regiment fired three volleys; and at one o’clock, the Britannia and Fancy each fired twenty-one guns to honor the day.

Preparatory to the departure of the Britannia, some returns were procured, which were necessary to be transmitted with the dispatches then making up. Among others it appeared, that the following quantity of ground had been this season sown with wheat: viz.

Preparatory to the departure of the Britannia, some returns were procured, which were necessary to be transmitted with the dispatches then making up. Among others, it appeared that the following amount of land had been sown with wheat this season: viz.

                                                    Acres
On account of government at and about Parramatta     340
    Individuals at and about ditto                  1214
    Individuals at the River*                        548½
    Individuals at and about Sydney                  618¾
        Total                                       2721¼

                                                    Acres  
Due to government at and around Parramatta     340  
    Individuals at and around the same place          1214  
    Individuals at the River*                        548½  
    Individuals at and around Sydney                  618¾  
        Total                                       2721¼

[* This was the account given by the settlers; but their conduct gave little room to believe they had been so industrious: they certainly ought to have had a greater quantity.]

[* This was the account provided by the settlers; however, their actions left little reason to believe they had been so hardworking: they definitely should have had more.]

On the 18th the Britannia sailed for India. As the state of the settlement at the time of her departure required every exertion to be made in procuring an immediate supply of provisions, Mr. Raven was directed to repair to Batavia, to procure there if possible a cargo of European salted meat. The necessity of his immediate return was so urgent, that if he found on his arrival that only half a cargo could be got, he was to fill up the remainder of the stowage with rice and sugar, and make the best of his way back. If salted provisions were not to be got at Batavia, he was to proceed to Calcutta. Should circumstances run so much against us, as to cause his failure at both these ports, Mr. Raven was at liberty to return by way of the Cape of Good Hope, as provisions were at any rate to be procured, if possible.

On the 18th, the Britannia set sail for India. Since the condition of the settlement required urgent efforts to secure an immediate supply of food, Mr. Raven was instructed to go to Batavia to see if he could obtain a cargo of European salted meat. His return was so crucial that if he discovered upon arrival that he could only get half a cargo, he was to fill the rest of the hold with rice and sugar and head back as quickly as possible. If he couldn’t find salted provisions in Batavia, he was to go on to Calcutta. If things went really badly and he couldn’t get anything at either port, Mr. Raven could return via the Cape of Good Hope, as provisions could still be obtained there, if at all possible.

On the 21st, the Fancy sailed for Norfolk Island, taking a cargo of rice and dholl for the use of that settlement; the Rev. Mr. Marsden also embarked in her to marry and baptise such as stood in need of those rites.

On the 21st, the Fancy set sail for Norfolk Island, carrying a load of rice and dholl for the settlement; Rev. Mr. Marsden also boarded to perform marriages and baptisms for those who needed them.

On the 29th the colonial schooner brought another cargo of Indian corn (one thousand one hundred and twelve bushels) from the Hawkesbury. For want of storehouse room, great quantities were left lying before the door, exposed to, and suffering much by the weather. As it had not been measured or received by the store-keeper, the loss fell upon the owners.

On the 29th, the colonial schooner delivered another load of Indian corn (1,112 bushels) from the Hawkesbury. Due to a lack of storage space, large amounts were left outside, exposed to the weather and suffering significantly. Since it hadn’t been measured or accepted by the storekeeper, the loss fell on the owners.

The cattle lately arrived seemed to suffer by their change of climate; one cow and several calves died; perhaps as much from mismanagement, as by the weather; for, with very few exceptions, it was impossible to select from among the prisoners, or those who had been such, any who would feel an honest interest in executing the service in which they were employed. They would pilfer half the grain entrusted to their care for the cattle; they would lead them into the woods for pasturage, and there leave them until obliged to conduct them in; they would neither clean them nor themselves. Indolent, and by long habit worthless, no dependance could be placed on them. In every instance they endeavoured to circumvent; and whenever their exertions were called for, they first looked about them to discover how those exertions might be turned to their own advantage. Could it then be wondered at, if little had been done since our establishment? and must it not rather excite admiration to see how much had been done? Whatever was to be seen was the effect of the most unremitting, and perhaps degrading vigilance on the part of those in whom the executive power had been from time to time vested, and of the interest that many individuals had felt in raising this country from its original insignificance to some degree of consequence.

The cattle that recently arrived seemed to struggle with the change in climate; one cow and several calves died, likely due to mismanagement as much as the weather. With very few exceptions, it was impossible to find anyone among the prisoners, or former prisoners, who genuinely cared about doing the work they were assigned. They would steal half the grain meant for the cattle, take them into the woods for grazing, and leave them there until they had to be brought back. They wouldn’t clean the cattle or themselves. Lazy and used to being worthless, they couldn’t be relied upon. In every case, they tried to cheat the system, and whenever hard work was required, they first looked around to see how they could benefit from it. So, could it be surprising that little had been accomplished since we started? Instead, shouldn’t we admire how much has been achieved? Everything we see is the result of relentless, and maybe demeaning, vigilance from those who have held the executive power at different times, along with the interest that many individuals have taken in elevating this country from its original insignificance to some level of importance.

Among the casualties of the month must be noticed the death of a man unfortunately drowned in attempting to save the life of a woman who was overset with himself in a passage-boat, coming from Parramatta. He had just got her into safety when she pulled him under water, and he perished. It is extremely hazardous, and requires very great caution in those who meddle with persons that are drowning.

Among the casualties of the month, we must note the death of a man who tragically drowned while trying to save a woman who had fallen overboard in a boat coming from Parramatta. He had just managed to get her to safety when she pulled him underwater, and he drowned. It’s incredibly dangerous and requires a lot of caution for anyone who tries to help someone who is drowning.

On the 27th, two soldiers, going with their arms to Parramatta, stopped on the road to fire at a mark. One of them, inconsiderately, placing himself behind the tree which was the mark, and presenting himself in the unfortunate moment of his companion's firing, received the ball in his thigh near the groin. He was brought to Sydney as soon as it was possible, when Mr. Harris the surgeon of the regiment amputated the limb. The wound was so near the groin, however, that the tourniquet was fixed with much difficulty and hazard*.

On the 27th, two soldiers heading to Parramatta, stopped on the road to shoot at a target. One of them, thoughtlessly positioning himself behind the tree that served as the target, accidentally got hit in the thigh near the groin when his companion fired. He was taken to Sydney as quickly as possible, where Mr. Harris, the regiment’s surgeon, amputated the leg. However, the wound was so close to the groin that it was challenging and risky to apply the tourniquet.

[* The patient's name was Nicholas Downie. He recovered, after several weeks care and attention on the part of Mr. Harris; but his comrade suffered much anxiety during the cure.]

[* The patient's name was Nicholas Downie. He recovered after several weeks of care and attention from Mr. Harris; however, his comrade experienced a lot of anxiety during the recovery process.]

There was at this time under the care of the surgeon Joseph Hatton, a settler at the Eastern Farms, an elderly man, who had been dangerously stabbed in the belly by his wife, a young woman (named before their marriage Rosamond Sparrow), in a fit of jealousy and passion. On his recovery, he earnestly requested that no punishment might be inflicted on her, but that she might be put away from him.

There was at this time under the care of the surgeon Joseph Hatton, a settler at the Eastern Farms, an elderly man who had been seriously stabbed in the stomach by his wife, a young woman (named before their marriage Rosamond Sparrow), during a moment of jealousy and passion. As he recovered, he strongly requested that no punishment be given to her, but that she be kept away from him.

CHAPTER XXIX

Ration
A Criminal and a Civil Court held
Circumstances surrounding the death of Francis T. Daveney
Salt produced
Wilson, Knight, and the locals
The new mill
Providence arrives from England
Four convicts brought from Port Stephens
Public work
Storm
The Fancy arrives from Norfolk Island
The Supply and Reliance arrive
Governor Hunter's commission read
Transactions
The India ships set sail
Another arrival from England
Military promotions
Colonial regulations
The Providence, Supply, and Young William set sail
The Sovereign storeship arrives from England
Criminal court held
Convict executed
Printing press utilized
Ration
Information from Norfolk Island
The cattle lost in 1788 found
Transactions
Bennillong's behavior after returning from England
Civil Court held
Harvest
Regulations
Locals
Weather phenomenon at the Hawkesbury
Mr. Barrow's death
Deaths in 1795

July.] The salted provisions being all expended, except a few casks which were reserved for the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers of the corps, on Saturday the 11th of the month the convicts received the following ration:

July.] With all the salted provisions used up, except for a few casks set aside for the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers of the corps, on Saturday the 11th of the month, the convicts received the following ration:

Indian corn  12 pounds (unground);
Rice          5 ditto;
Dholl         3 pints;
Sugar         1½ pound;

Indian corn 12 pounds (unground);  
Rice 5 pounds;  
Dholl 3 pints;  
Sugar 1.5 pounds;

being the first time, since the establishment of the colony, that they had gone from the store without receiving either salted or fresh provisions. On the Monday following the military received,

being the first time since the establishment of the colony that they had left the store without getting either salted or fresh food. On the Monday after, the military received,

Salt pork     2 pounds;
Indian corn  12 ditto (unground);
Peas          3 pints;
Rice          3 ditto;
Sugar         6 ounces.

Salt pork     2 pounds;  
Indian corn  12 pounds (unground);  
Peas          3 pints;  
Rice          3 pints;  
Sugar         6 ounces.

This being the state of the stores, supplies were ardently to be desired. It was truly unfortunate, that Mr. Bampton had not been able to procure any salted provisions at Bombay, but in lieu thereof had brought us a quantity of rice. We now began to grow grain sufficient for our consumption from crop to crop, and grain that was at all times preferred to the imports from India. Dholl and rice were never well received by the prisoners as an equivalent for flour, particularly when peas formed a part of the ration; and it was to be lamented that a necessity ever existed, of forcing upon them such trash as they had from time to time been obliged to digest.

This being the situation with the stores, we really needed supplies. It was a real shame that Mr. Bampton couldn't get any salted provisions in Bombay, but instead he brought us a lot of rice. We began to grow enough grain for our own use with each crop, which was always preferred over the imports from India. The prisoners never liked having dholl and rice as a substitute for flour, especially when peas were part of the rations; it was unfortunate that there was ever a need to make them eat such low-quality food that they sometimes had to manage.

The effects of this ration soon appeared; several attacks were made on individuals; the house occupied by Mr. Muir was broken into, and all or nearly all that gentleman's property stolen; some of his wearing apparel was laid in his way the next day; but he still remained a considerable sufferer by the visit. Some private stock yards were attacked; but finding them too vigilantly watched, a fellow played off a trick that he thought would go down with the hungry; he stole a very fine greyhound, and instead of secretly employing him in procuring occasionally a fresh meal, he actually killed the dog, and sold it to different people in the town for kangaroo at nine-pence per pound. Being detected in this villainous traffic, he was severely punished.

The effects of this ration quickly became evident; several attacks were carried out on individuals; the house where Mr. Muir lived was broken into, and almost all of his belongings were stolen. Some of his clothes were left in his path the next day, but he still ended up suffering a lot because of the break-in. Some private stockyards were targeted too, but when they found them too closely watched, one guy came up with a scheme that he thought would appeal to the hungry. He stole a very fine greyhound, and instead of secretly using it to snag an occasional fresh meal, he actually killed the dog and sold it to different people in town as kangaroo meat for nine pence per pound. When he was caught in this atrocious act, he faced harsh consequences.

A criminal court was assembled on the 20th for the trial of Mary Pawson, a settler's wife at the river, for the crime of arson. On the trial there was strong evidence of malice in the prisoner against the wife of the owner of the house; but not any that led directly to convict her of having set the house on fire. She was therefore acquitted; but the adjoining settlers disliking such a character in their neighbourhood, the husband, who had nothing against him but this wife, sold a very good farm which he possessed on a creek of the river, and withdrew to another situation, remote and less advantageous. At the same time a notorious offender, James Barry, was tried for attempting to break into a settler's house at the Ponds with an intent to steal, the proof of which was too clear to admit of his escape. He was sentenced to suffer one thousand lashes, and on the Saturday following received two hundred and seventy of them.

A criminal court was convened on the 20th for the trial of Mary Pawson, a settler's wife by the river, accused of arson. During the trial, there was strong evidence that she had a grudge against the owner’s wife, but nothing that directly proved she had set the house on fire. She was therefore found not guilty; however, the neighboring settlers didn't want someone like her in their community, so her husband, who had no issues against him aside from her, sold a good farm he owned by a creek and moved to a less desirable location. At the same time, a well-known criminal, James Barry, was tried for trying to break into a settler's house at the Ponds with the intent to steal, and the evidence against him was too strong for him to escape conviction. He was sentenced to receive one thousand lashes, and the following Saturday, he received two hundred and seventy of them.

On the same day a civil court was held for the purpose of granting probate of the will of Thomas Daveney, late a superintendant of convicts, who died on the 3rd of the month. The cause of his death was extraordinary. He had been appointed a superintendant of the convicts employed in agriculture at Toongabbie by the late Governor Phillip, who, considering him trust-worthy, placed great confidence in him. Some time after Governor Phillip's departure, his conduct was represented to the lieutenant-governor in such a light, that he dismissed him from his situation, and he retired to a farm which he had at Toongabbie. He had been always addicted to the use of spirituous liquors; but he now applied himself more closely to them, to drown the recollection of his disgrace. In this vice he continued until the 3rd of May last, on which day he came to Sydney in a state of insanity. He went to the house of a friend in the town, determined, as it seemed, to destroy himself, for he there drank, unknown to the people of the house, as fast as he could swallow, nearly half a gallon of Cape brandy. He fell directly upon the floor of the room he was in (which happened to be of brick); where the people, thinking nothing worse than intoxication ailed him, suffered him to lie for ten or twelve hours; in consequence he was seized with a violent inflammation which broke out on the arm, and that part of the body which lay next the ground; to this, after suppuration had taken place, and several operations had been performed to extract the pus, a mortification succeeded, and at last carried him off on the 3rd of July. A few hours before his death he requested to see the ludge-advocate, to whom he declared, that it had been told him that he had been suspected of having improperly and tyrannically abused the confidence which he had enjoyed under Governor Phillip; but that he could safely declare as he was shortly to appear before the last tribunal, that nothing lay on his conscience which could make his last moments in this life painful. At his own request he was interred in the burying ground at Parramatta. He had been advancing his means pretty rapidly; for, after his decease, his stock of goats, consisting of eighty-six males and females, sold by public auction for three hundred and fifty-seven pounds fifteen shillings. He left a widow (formerly Catharine Hounson) who had for several years been deranged in her intellects.

On the same day, a civil court was held to probate the will of Thomas Daveney, who had recently passed away on the 3rd of the month. His death had an unusual cause. He had been appointed as a superintendent of convicts working in agriculture at Toongabbie by the late Governor Phillip, who trusted him and placed a lot of confidence in his abilities. Some time after Governor Phillip left, concerns about his behavior were raised with the lieutenant-governor, leading to his dismissal from that position. He then retired to a farm he owned in Toongabbie. He had always had a problem with alcohol, but he began drinking more heavily to cope with his shame. He continued this way until May 3rd, when he arrived in Sydney in a confused state. He went to a friend’s house, seemingly intent on harming himself, and there, without the family knowing, he drank nearly half a gallon of Cape brandy as quickly as he could. He collapsed directly onto the brick floor of the room, and the people there, thinking he was just drunk, let him lie for ten to twelve hours. As a result, he developed a severe inflammation in his arm and on the part of his body that was in contact with the ground. After some pus began to form and several operations were done to drain it, gangrene set in, which ultimately led to his death on July 3rd. A few hours before he died, he asked to see the judge-advocate and told him that he had heard rumors that he had abused the trust given to him by Governor Phillip, but he could honestly say, as he was about to meet his final judgment, that he had no guilt weighing on him that would make his last moments painful. He requested to be buried in the cemetery at Parramatta. He had been improving his financial situation quickly; after his death, his herd of goats, totaling eighty-six males and females, was sold at public auction for three hundred fifty-seven pounds and fifteen shillings. He left behind a widow, formerly Catharine Hounson, who had been mentally ill for several years.

In addition to the superintendant, there died in this month a woman, Jane Forbes, the wife of Butler, a settler at Prospect Hill, who fell into the fire while preparing their breakfast, and received such injury that she shortly after expired.

In addition to the superintendent, a woman named Jane Forbes, the wife of Butler, a settler at Prospect Hill, died this month. She fell into the fire while making breakfast and was hurt so badly that she soon passed away.

August.] From the scantiness of salted provisions, the article salt was become as scarce. There came out in the Surprise, as a settler, a person of the name of Boston. Among other useful knowledge* which we were given to understand he possessed, he at this time offered his skill in making salt from sea-water. As it was much wanted, his offers were accepted, and, an eligible spot at Bennillong's Point (as the east point of the cove had long been named) being chosen, he began his operations, for which he had seven men allowed him, whose labour, however, only produced three or four bushels of salt in more than as many weeks.

August.] Due to the shortage of salted supplies, salt had become quite rare. A man named Boston arrived as a settler on the Surprise. Among other useful skills he claimed to have, he offered to make salt from sea water. Since it was urgently needed, we accepted his offer. A suitable location at Bennillong's Point (the eastern point of the cove) was chosen, and he started his work. He was given seven men to help him, but their efforts only resulted in three or four bushels of salt over several weeks.

[* Having been sent out by government to supply us with salted fish, he had some time before offered to procure and salt fish for the settlement; but he required boats and men, and more assistance than it was possible to supply. He proposed to try Broken Bay.]

[* After being dispatched by the government to provide us with salted fish, he had previously offered to obtain and salt fish for the settlement; however, he needed boats, men, and more support than we could provide. He suggested trying Broken Bay.]

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's birthday was duly noticed. At one o'clock the Endeavour fired twenty-one guns.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's birthday was duly acknowledged. At one o'clock, the Endeavour fired twenty-one guns.

Wilson (Bun-bo-e), immediately after his return from Port Stephens with the deputy-surveyor, went off to the natives at the river. Another vagabond, who like himself had been a convict, one Knight, thinking there must be some sweets in the life which Wilson led, determined to share them with him, and went off to the woods. About the middle of this month they both came into the town, accompanied by some of their companions. On the day following it appeared that their visit was for the purpose of forcing a wife from among the women of this district; for in the midst of a considerable uproar, which was heard near the bridge, Wilson and Knight were discovered, each dragging a girl by the arm (whose age could not have been beyond nine or ten years) assisted by their new associates. The two white men being soon secured, and the children taken care of, the mob dispersed. Wilson and Knight were taken to the cells and punished, and it was intended to employ them both in hard labour; but they found means to escape, and soon mixed again with companions whom they preferred to our overseers.

Wilson (Bun-bo-e), right after he returned from Port Stephens with the deputy-surveyor, went to meet the locals at the river. Another drifter, a fellow convict named Knight, thinking that there must be some perks to the life Wilson led, decided to join him and headed into the woods. Around the middle of this month, they both came into town with some of their friends. The next day, it became clear that their visit was aimed at taking a wife from among the local women; amid a significant commotion near the bridge, Wilson and Knight were seen dragging a girl by the arm (who looked to be no older than nine or ten) with help from their new friends. The two white men were quickly apprehended, and the children were looked after before the crowd dispersed. Wilson and Knight were taken to the cells and punished, and there were plans to make them do hard labor; however, they managed to escape and soon rejoined companions they preferred over our overseers.

About this time the natives were, during two days, engaged in very severe contests. Much blood was shed, and many wounds inflicted; but no one was killed. It appeared to afford much diversion; for they were constantly well attended by all descriptions of people, notwithstanding the risk they ran of being wounded by a random spear.

About this time, the locals were engaged in intense competitions for two days straight. A lot of blood was spilled, and many people were hurt, but no one was killed. It seemed to provide a lot of entertainment, as they were constantly surrounded by all kinds of people, despite the danger of being accidentally hit by a stray spear.

On the 26th that settlement was gratified by the arrival of his Majesty's ship Providence, of twenty-eight guns, commanded by Captain Broughton, from England. She sailed thence on the 25th of February last, in company with his Majesty's ships Reliance and Supply, which ships she left at Rio de Janeiro some time in May last. We had the satisfaction of learning that Governor Hunter was on board the Reliance, and might be daily expected.

On the 26th, the settlement was pleased by the arrival of His Majesty's ship Providence, armed with twenty-eight guns and commanded by Captain Broughton, coming from England. She set sail from there on February 25th, alongside His Majesty's ships Reliance and Supply, which she left at Rio de Janeiro sometime in May. We were glad to hear that Governor Hunter was on board the Reliance and could be expected any day now.

The Providence met with very bad weather on her passage from the Brazil coast, and was driven past this harbour as far to the northward as Port Stephens, in which she anchored. There, to the great surprise of Captain Broughton, he found and received on board four white people, (if four miserable, naked, dirty, and smoke-dried men could be called white,) runaways from this settlement. By referring to the transactions of the month of September 1790, it will be found that five convicts, John Tarwood, George Lee, George Connoway, John Watson, and Joseph Sutton, escaped from the settlement at Parramatta, and, providing themselves with a wretched weak boat, which they stole from the people at the South Head, disappeared, and were supposed to have met a death which, one might have imagined, they went without the Heads to seek. Four of these people (Joseph Sutton having died) were now met with in this harbour by the officers of the Providence, and brought back to the colony. They told a melancholy tale of their sufferings in the boat; and for many days after their arrival passed their time in detailing to the crowds both of black and white people which attended them their adventures in Port Stephens, the first harbour they made. Having lived like the savages among whom they dwelt, their change of food soon disagreed with them, and they were all taken ill, appearing to be principally affected with abdominal swellings. They spoke in high terms of the pacific disposition and gentle manners of the natives. They were at some distance inland when Mr. Grimes was in Port Stephens; but heard soon after of the schooner's visit, and well knew, and often afterwards saw, the man who had been fired at, but not killed at that time as was supposed, by Wilson. Each of them had had names given him, and given with several ceremonies. Wives also were allotted them, and one or two had children. They were never required to go out on any occasion of hostility, and were in general supplied by the natives with fish or other food, being considered by them (for so their situation only could be construed) as unfortunate strangers thrown upon their shore from the mouth of the yawning deep, and entitled to their protection. They told us a ridiculous story, that the natives appeared to worship them, often assuring them, when they began to understand each other, that they were undoubtedly the ancestors of some of them who had fallen in battle, and had returned from the sea to visit them again; and one native appeared firmly to believe that his father was come back in the person of either Lee or Connoway, and took him to the spot where his body had been burnt. On being told that immense numbers of people existed far beyond their little knowledge, they instantly pronounced them to be the spirits of their countrymen, which, after death, had migrated into other regions.

The Providence faced terrible weather on its journey from the Brazil coast and ended up being blown past this harbor all the way to Port Stephens, where it anchored. To Captain Broughton's surprise, he found and welcomed aboard four white men—if you could call four miserable, naked, dirty, and smoke-stained guys "white"—who were runaways from this settlement. Looking back at the events of September 1790, you'll see that five convicts: John Tarwood, George Lee, George Connoway, John Watson, and Joseph Sutton, escaped from the Parramatta settlement. They took a ragged little boat they had stolen from the people at South Head and disappeared, presumed dead, likely seeking their fate beyond the Heads. Four of these men (Joseph Sutton having died) were now encountered by the officers of the Providence in this harbor and brought back to the colony. They shared a heartbreaking account of their hardships in the boat. For many days after their return, they entertained crowds of both black and white people with tales of their adventures at Port Stephens, which was the first harbor they reached. Having lived like the natives among whom they resided, their new diet soon upset their stomachs, and they all fell ill, suffering primarily from abdominal swelling. They praised the peaceful nature and gentle manners of the locals. They were a bit farther inland during Mr. Grimes's visit to Port Stephens but soon heard about the schooner's arrival and frequently saw the man who had been shot at but not killed, as was previously thought, by Wilson. Each of them was given names along with several ceremonies, and they were assigned wives, with one or two even having children. They were never asked to join in any hostile actions and were generally provided with fish or other food by the natives, who viewed them—as their situation might suggest—as unfortunate strangers washed ashore from the depths of the ocean, deserving of their protection. They told a funny story about how the natives seemed to worship them, often telling them, once communication improved, that they were definitely the ancestors of some of the natives who had fallen in battle and returned from the sea to visit them. One native even insisted that his father had returned in the form of either Lee or Connoway and took him to the spot where his body had been burned. When informed that many people lived far beyond their limited knowledge, they immediately declared these to be the spirits of their countrymen, who had migrated to other regions after death.

It appeared from these four men, that the language to the northward differed wholly from any that we knew. Among the natives who lived with us, there were none who understood all that they said, and of those who occasionally came in, one only could converse with them. He was a very fine lad, of the name of Wur-gan. His mother had been born and bred beyond the mountains, but one luckless day, paying a visit with some of her tribe to the banks of the Dee-rab-bun (for so the Hawkesbury was named) she was forcibly prevented returning, and, being obliged to submit to the embraces of an amorous and powerful Be-dia-gal, the fruit of her visit was this boy. Speaking herself more dialects than one, she taught her son all she knew, and he, being of quick parts, and a roving disposition, caught all the different dialects from Botany Bay to Port Stephens.

It became clear from these four men that the language to the north was completely different from anything we knew. Among the locals who lived with us, none understood everything they said, and of the few who occasionally visited, only one could hold a conversation with them. He was a really nice young man named Wur-gan. His mother had been born and raised beyond the mountains, but one unfortunate day, while visiting the banks of the Dee-rab-bun (which is what the Hawkesbury was called), she was prevented from returning and had to submit to the advances of a passionate and powerful Be-dia-gal, resulting in the birth of this boy. She spoke more than one dialect, taught her son everything she knew, and he, being quick-witted and adventurous, picked up various dialects from Botany Bay to Port Stephens.

We understood that Lieutenant-governor Grose in the Daedalus had reached Rio de Janeiro in eleven weeks from his sailing hence, and that all on board were in health.

We learned that Lieutenant Governor Grose on the Daedalus had arrived in Rio de Janeiro after eleven weeks of sailing, and that everyone on board was in good health.

Public labour was scarcely anywhere performed in this month, owing to the extreme badness of the weather which prevailed. The rain and wind were so violent for some days after the arrival of the Providence, that neither that ship nor the Endeavour had much communication with the shore. Accounts were received from the Hawkesbury, that several farms on the creeks were under water; and the person who brought the account was nearly drowned in his way over a plain named the Race-Ground. Paling could no where stand the force of the storm. Several chimnies and much plaster fell, and every house was wet. At Parramatta much damage was done; and at Toongabbie (a circumstance most acutely felt) a very large barn and threshing-floor were destroyed. The schooner had been loading with corn at the river, and, though she left the store on the 11th, did not reach Sydney until the 20th, having met with much bad weather. During the storm, the column at the South Head fell in. This, however, could be more readily repaired than the barn and the threshing-floor at Toongabbie, which were serious losses, and had cost government a much larger sum than the beacon.

Public work was hardly done this month due to the terrible weather. The rain and wind were so strong for several days after the arrival of the Providence that neither that ship nor the Endeavour had much interaction with the shore. Reports came in from the Hawkesbury that several farms along the creeks were flooded; the person who delivered the message was nearly drowned while crossing a plain called the Race-Ground. Fencing couldn’t withstand the storm’s force. Several chimneys and a lot of plaster fell, and every house was damp. At Parramatta, there was a lot of damage, and at Toongabbie, which was felt particularly hard, a very large barn and threshing floor were destroyed. The schooner had been loading corn at the river, and although it left the store on the 11th, it didn’t reach Sydney until the 20th because of bad weather. During the storm, the column at South Head collapsed. However, that could be fixed more easily than the barn and threshing floor at Toongabbie, which were significant losses and had cost the government much more than the beacon.

Several of the cattle lately arrived perished in this bad weather.

Several of the cattle that arrived recently died in this bad weather.

To eke out the salt meat that was reserved for the military, two Cape cows, which would not breed, were killed and served out to them during this month.

To stretch the salt meat kept for the military, two infertile Cape cows were slaughtered and distributed to them this month.

September.] After an absence of eleven weeks, the Fancy arrived on the 3rd from Norfolk Island. Her passage thither was made in six days; but on her return she ran within one hundred and thirty miles of this port in three or four days; yet afterwards met with contrary and heavy gales of wind which kept her out a month. On the 28th of last month she was off the south head of Broken Bay in a heavy gale of wind, and was, by being close in with the land in thick weather, in extreme danger. Of a large quantity of stock (the property of Mr. Balmain, who left Norfolk Island to take upon him the charge of the general hospital here), but a very small quantity remained alive after the gale.

September.] After being away for eleven weeks, the Fancy returned on the 3rd from Norfolk Island. The trip there took six days; however, on the way back, she got about one hundred and thirty miles from this port in three or four days. She then encountered strong headwinds and heavy gales that delayed her for a month. On the 28th of last month, she was off the south head of Broken Bay during a heavy storm and was in serious danger, having been close to the shore in poor visibility. Out of a large number of livestock owned by Mr. Balmain, who left Norfolk Island to take charge of the general hospital here, only a very small number survived the storm.

The most favourable accounts were received from that settlement. Plenty reigned throughout. Every barn was full. Four thousand pounds of fresh pork having been cured, the lieutenant-governor had forty tons of salt provisions to spare, which he offered to this colony. The wharf and crane at Cascade were rather improved than simply repaired, and an overshot water-mill had been erected at the trifling expence of three ewe sheep to the constructor, which ground and dressed eighteen bushels of flour in a day.

The best reports came in from that settlement. Everything was abundant. Every barn was packed. After curing four thousand pounds of fresh pork, the lieutenant-governor had forty tons of salt provisions left over, which he offered to this colony. The wharf and crane at Cascade were improved rather than just repaired, and an overshot water mill was built for the small cost of three ewe sheep to the builder, which ground and processed eighteen bushels of flour each day.

William Hogg, a prisoner well known and approved at this place for his abilities as a silversmith, and an actor in the walk of low comedy, put an end to his existence in a very deliberate manner a few days before the Fancy sailed. Spirits being in circulation after her arrival, he went to the 'Grog-shop' as long as he had money; but, finding that he had no credit, he could no longer endure the loss of character which he thought attached to it; and though he did not 'make his quietus with a bare bodkin,' yet he found a convenient rope that put him out of the world.

William Hogg, a prisoner known for his skills as a silversmith and his role in low comedy, ended his life in a very intentional way a few days before the Fancy set sail. After her arrival, he spent what money he had at the 'Grog-shop'; however, when he realized he had no credit left, he couldn't bear the shame he thought came with it. Although he didn’t end his life in a dramatic way, he found a convenient rope that allowed him to escape from the world.

The 7th of September was marked by the arrival of the governor in chief of these settlements. The signal was made for two sail between eight and nine o'clock in the morning. The wind being from the northward, they did not reach the anchorage until late; his Majesty's ship the Supply, commanded by Lieutenant William Kent, getting in about sun-set; and the Reliance, with the governor on board, about eight at night. Their passage from Rio de Janeiro was long (fourteen weeks) and very rough, until the ships came off Van Dieman's Land. Of our late bad weather they had felt nothing.

The 7th of September was noted by the arrival of the chief governor of these settlements. The signal was given for two ships between eight and nine in the morning. With the wind coming from the north, they didn't reach the anchorage until later; His Majesty's ship the Supply, led by Lieutenant William Kent, arriving around sunset; and the Reliance, with the governor on board, around eight at night. Their journey from Rio de Janeiro was long (fourteen weeks) and quite rough, until the ships reached Van Dieman's Land. They hadn’t experienced any of our recent bad weather.

Situated as the colony was in point of provisions, we learned with infinite concern, that a storeship which had once been under Governor Hunter's orders, had, from being overloaded, been unavoidably left behind, and had yet to run the chance of being taken by the enemies' cruizers; and that by the two ships now arrived we had only gained a few barrels of provisions salted at Rio de Janeiro; a town clock; the principal parts of a large wind-mill; two officers of the New South Wales corps; Mr. S. Leeds an assistant-surgeon, and Mr. D. Payne a master boat-builder.

Given the colony's situation regarding supplies, we learned with great concern that a supply ship, previously ordered by Governor Hunter, had to be left behind due to being overloaded. There was a risk it could be captured by enemy cruisers. From the two ships that had just arrived, we had only received a few barrels of provisions salted in Rio de Janeiro, a town clock, the main components of a large windmill, two officers from the New South Wales corps, Mr. S. Leeds, an assistant surgeon, and Mr. D. Payne, a master boat builder.

His excellency did not take upon him the exercise of his authority until the 11th, on which day his Majesty's commission was publicly read by the judge-advocate, all descriptions of persons being present, His excellency, in a very pertinent speech, declared the expectations he had from every one's conduct, touching with much delicacy on that of the persons lately sent here for a certain offence, (some of whom were present, but who unfortunately kept at too great a distance to bear him,) and strongly urging the necessity of a general unanimity in support of his Majesty's government. He was afterwards sworn in by the judge-advocate at his office.* An address, signed by the civil and military officers on occasion of his return among them as governor, was presented to his excellency a few days after his public appearance in that important capacity.

His excellency didn’t take on his authority until the 11th, when the judge-advocate publicly read his Majesty’s commission in front of everyone. In a very relevant speech, his excellency expressed his expectations for everyone’s behavior, delicately touching on that of the individuals recently sent here for a certain offense (some of whom were present but unfortunately stayed too far away to hear him), and strongly emphasized the need for everyone to unite in support of his Majesty’s government. He was then sworn in by the judge-advocate at his office.* A few days after his public appearance in this important role, an address signed by the civil and military officers was presented to his excellency to mark his return as governor.

[* Before Captain Paterson gave up his command, all the prisoners in confinement were pardoned and liberated. Rayner, under sentence of death, was pardoned by the governor some time after. In consequence of this act of grace, several runaways gave themselves up.]

[* Before Captain Paterson resigned from his command, all prisoners in confinement were pardoned and released. Rayner, who was sentenced to death, was pardoned by the governor later on. Because of this act of mercy, several fugitives turned themselves in.]

That he might as speedily as possible be acquainted with the state of the colony, he ordered a general muster to be taken by the commis???? appointing different days at Sydney, Parramatta, and the Hawkesbury, in order that correct accounts might be obtained of the number and distribution of every person (the military excepted) in those districts; and he purposed in person to inspect the state of the different farms. He recommended it to all persons who had lands in cultivation to plant with Indian corn as much of them as might not at that time be under any other grain; urging them, as it was the proper season, not to let it pass by, it being an essential article in the nourishment of live stock, the increase of which was of such importance to the settlement, that he could not but advise the utmost care and economy in the use of what might then and in future be in the possession of settlers and other persons.

To quickly understand the state of the colony, he ordered a general roll call to be held by the officers, scheduling different days in Sydney, Parramatta, and the Hawkesbury to obtain accurate accounts of the number and distribution of everyone (except for the military) in those areas. He intended to personally check on the condition of the various farms. He advised all landowners to plant as much Indian corn as possible in areas not currently planted with other grains, stressing that it was the right season to do so. This was crucial for feeding livestock, and the growth of livestock was vital for the settlement, so he urged everyone to be diligent and economical with what settlers and others had then and in the future.

Mr. Bampton having given his ship such repairs as he was able in this port, the Endeavour and Fancy sailed for India on the 18th. He purposed touching at New Zealand and at Norfolk Island. We found after their departure, that, notwithstanding so many as fifty persons whose transportation had expired had been permitted to leave the colony in the Endeavour, nearly as many more had found means to secrete themselves on board her. As she was to touch at Norfolk Island, hopes were entertained of getting the runaways back again, as the loss even of one man's labour was at this time an object of consequence.

Mr. Bampton had made the repairs he could to his ship in this port, so the Endeavour and Fancy set sail for India on the 18th. He planned to stop at New Zealand and Norfolk Island. After they left, we discovered that, despite allowing around fifty people whose transportation had ended to leave the colony on the Endeavour, nearly as many more had managed to hide on board. Since she was going to stop at Norfolk Island, there were hopes of getting the runaways back, as losing even one person's labor was significant at this time.

As many labouring people as could be got together were employed during the month in receiving such articles as had been brought in the king's ships for the colony.

As many workers as could be gathered were employed during the month in receiving items that had been delivered by the king's ships for the colony.

The weather during the month was very variable; and three women and two men died. Of these one was much regretted, as his loss would be severely felt; this was Mr. J. Irving, who, dying before the governor arrived, knew not that he had been appointed an assistant to the surgeons with a salary of fifty pounds per annum.

The weather that month was very unpredictable, and three women and two men died. One of them was deeply mourned, as his absence would be strongly felt; this was Mr. J. Irving, who, dying before the governor got there, was unaware that he had been appointed as an assistant to the surgeons with a salary of fifty pounds a year.

October.] The police and civil duties of the town and district of Sydney were now regulated by civil magistrates. At Parramatta, Lieutenant McArthur continued to carry on the duties to which he had been appointed by Lieutenant-Governor Grose, the public service at that place requiring the inspection and superintendance of an officer.

October.] The police and civil responsibilities of the town and district of Sydney were now managed by civil magistrates. At Parramatta, Lieutenant McArthur continued to fulfill the duties assigned to him by Lieutenant-Governor Grose, as the public service in that area needed oversight and supervision from an officer.

On Sunday the 4th of this month the Young William, the storeship whose unavoidable delay in her sailing we had regretted on the arrival of the governor without her, anchored safe in the cove from England, after a short passage of four months and nine days, with a cargo of provisions only. She sailed from Spithead in company with the Sovereign, another storeship, on the 25th of May, taking her route by the way of Rio de Janeiro, where she anchored on the 12th of July, leaving it on the 21st of the same month; and meeting with very bad weather nearly the whole of the voyage, she shipped great quantities of water; and, being very deeply laden, the vessel was considerably strained.

On Sunday, the 4th of this month, the Young William, the supply ship whose unavoidable delay we had regretted when the governor arrived without her, safely anchored in the cove after a short journey of four months and nine days from England, carrying only provisions. She set sail from Spithead alongside the Sovereign, another supply ship, on the 25th of May, taking a route through Rio de Janeiro, where she anchored on the 12th of July and left on the 21st of the same month. Encountering very rough weather for almost the entire voyage, she took on a lot of water, and being heavily loaded, the ship was significantly strained.

By letters received from this ship we learned, that some promotions had taken place in the New South Wales corps. Captain Nicholas Nepean had obtained the commission of second major; Lieutenant John McArthur had succeeded to his company; Lieutenant John Townson had got the company late belonging to Captain Hill; and Ensigns Clephan and Piper were made lieutenants, all without purchase. Messrs. Kent and Bell, the naval agents, who left this country in the Britannia in September 1794, arrived safely in England in March last.

By letters received from this ship, we learned that some promotions had happened in the New South Wales corps. Captain Nicholas Nepean was promoted to the rank of second major; Lieutenant John McArthur took over his company; Lieutenant John Townson got the company that used to belong to Captain Hill; and Ensigns Clephan and Piper were promoted to lieutenants, all without having to pay for their ranks. Messrs. Kent and Bell, the naval agents, who left this country on the Britannia in September 1794, arrived safely in England last March.

In consequence of this arrival the governor had it in his power to issue a better, though not so ample a ration of provisions as he could have desired. The supply had not been sufficient to allow him to order more than four pounds ten ounces and two thirds of an ounce of pork, and four pounds of flour, to the convicts. The same quantity of salt meat was ordered for the military; but they received two pounds of flour more than the prisoners. The other parts of the weekly ration remained nearly the same as before, except the article of sugar, the convicts receiving six ounces instead of one pound and a half of that article.

Because of this arrival, the governor was able to issue a better, but still not as ample, ration of provisions as he would have liked. The supply was insufficient to allow him to order more than four pounds ten ounces and two-thirds of an ounce of pork, and four pounds of flour for the convicts. The military received the same amount of salt meat, but they got two pounds more flour than the prisoners. The rest of the weekly rations stayed nearly the same as before, except for sugar, with the convicts receiving six ounces instead of one and a half pounds.

The report of the general muster which was ordered in the last month having been laid before the governor, he thought proper to make some regulations in the assistance afforded by government to settlers and others holding grants of land. To the officers who occupied grounds was continued the number of men allowed them by lieutenant-governor Grose; viz ten for agriculture, and three for domestic purposes. Notwithstanding this far exceeded the number which had at home been thought necessary, the governor did not conceive this to be the moment for reducing it, much as he wanted men. A wheat harvest was approaching; ground was planting with Indian corn; not a man was unemployed; but he saw and explained that a reduction must take place; that government could not be supposed much longer to feed, maintain, and clothe the hands that wrought the ground, and at the same time pay for the produce of their labour, particularly when every public work was likely to stand still for want of labourers. He was sensible that the assistance which had been given had not been thrown away, and that the small number allowed by government could never have produced such rapid approaches toward that independence which he thought, from what he had already seen of the cultivation of the country, was now much nearer than at his leaving it in 1791 he could have conceived to be possible. To the settlers* who arrived in the Surprise he allowed five male convicts; to the superintendants, constables, and store-keepers, four; to settlers from free people**, two; to settlers from prisoners, one; and to sergeants of the New South Wales corps, one.

The report of the general muster that was ordered last month was presented to the governor, who decided to implement some regulations regarding the support provided by the government to settlers and others holding land grants. For the officers occupying land, the number of men permitted, as decided by Lieutenant-Governor Grose, remained unchanged: ten for agriculture and three for domestic tasks. Although this was far more than what was deemed necessary back home, the governor felt it wasn't the right time to cut back, despite his need for workers. A wheat harvest was approaching, and land was being planted with corn; no one was unemployed. However, he acknowledged and explained that a reduction would be necessary; it was impractical for the government to continue to feed, maintain, and clothe the workers while also paying for the products of their labor, especially when every public project was likely to stall due to a lack of laborers. He recognized that the assistance already provided had been effective and that the limited number of workers allowed by the government could not have achieved such quick progress toward independence, which he believed was now much closer than he could have imagined when he left in 1791. To the settlers who arrived on the Surprise, he allocated five male convicts; for superintendents, constables, and storekeepers, four; for settlers from free people, two; for settlers from prisoners, one; and for sergeants of the New South Wales corps, one.

[* Messrs. Boston, Pearce, and Ellis.]

[* Mr. Boston, Mr. Pearce, and Mr. Ellis.]

[** Such as the marine settlers, those at Liberty Plains, and others who never had been prisoners.]

[** Like the marine settlers, those at Liberty Plains, and others who have never been prisoners.]

As much inconvenience also was felt, and the end for which government gave up the services of these convicts to individuals liable to be defeated by their not residing at their respective farms, the settlers were directed as much as possible to prevent their servants from having any intercourse, particularly during the night, with the towns in their neighbourhood; as most of the robberies which were committed were not unjustly laid to their account.

As much inconvenience was also experienced, and the purpose for which the government provided these convicts to individuals was at risk due to their failure to stay at their assigned farms, the settlers were advised as much as possible to stop their workers from having any interactions, especially at night, with the nearby towns; since many of the robberies committed were often unfairly attributed to them.

It appeared likewise by this muster, that one hundred and seventy-nine people subsisted themselves independent of the public stores, and resided in this town. To many of these, as well as to the servants of settlers, were to be attributed the offences that were daily heard of, they were the greatest nuisances we had to complain of; and there was not a doubt that they were concerned about this time in rolling two casks of meat from a pile at the store in a very hard storm of wind and rain. Enough to fill a cask was found concealed in different holes the following morning.

It was also noted in this count that one hundred and seventy-nine people lived independently of public supplies and resided in this town. Many of these individuals, as well as the servants of settlers, were responsible for the offenses reported daily; they were the biggest nuisances we had to deal with. There was no doubt that during this time, they were involved in rolling two barrels of meat from a pile at the store during a fierce storm of wind and rain. The next morning, enough to fill a barrel was discovered hidden in various spots.

An indulgence had been allowed to some of the military and others, which was now found to have produced an evil. Having been permitted to build themselves huts on each side of and near the stream of water which supplied the town of Sydney, they had, for the convenience of procuring water, opened the paling, and made paths from each hut; by which, in rainy weather, a great quantity of filth ran into the stream, polluting the water of which every one drank. It therefore became an object of police; and the governor prohibited removing the paling, or keeping hogs in the neighbourhood of the stream, under penalty to the offender that his house should be pulled down.

An allowance had been made for some of the military and others, which was now recognized as a problem. They had been granted permission to build huts on both sides of the stream that provided water for the town of Sydney, and for easier access to water, they removed the fence and created paths from each hut. This action caused a lot of waste to flow into the stream during rainy weather, polluting the water that everyone relied on. As a result, it became a matter for law enforcement, and the governor banned the removal of the fence and the keeping of pigs near the stream, stating that any offender would face having their house torn down.

On the 13th, the Providence sailed for Nootka Sound. She was followed by the Supply, which sailed on the 16th for Norfolk Island, having on board three officers of the New South Wales corps, and a detachment of the regiment to relieve those now on duty there. On the 29th the Young William, having been expeditiously cleared of her cargo, sailed for Canton.

On the 13th, the Providence set sail for Nootka Sound. It was followed by the Supply, which departed on the 16th for Norfolk Island, carrying three officers from the New South Wales corps and a group of soldiers to replace those currently on duty there. On the 29th, the Young William, after quickly unloading her cargo, sailed for Canton.

Clearing the store-ship, which was completed on the 19th, and stowing in the public store the provisions she brought out, was the principal labour of the month. Every effort was made to collect together a sufficient number of working people to get in the ensuing harvest; and the muster and regulation respecting the servants fortunately produced some. The bricklayer and his gang were employed in repairing the column at the South Head; to do which, for want of bricks at the kiln, the little hut built formerly for Bennillong, being altogether forsaken by the natives, and tumbling down, the bricks of it were removed to the South Head. A person having undertaken to collect shells and burn them into lime, a quantity of that article was sent down; and the column, being finished with a thick coat of plaster, and whitened, was not only better guarded against the weather, but became a more conspicuous object at sea than it ever had been before.

Clearing the store ship, which was finished on the 19th, and storing the provisions she brought in the public store was the main task of the month. Every effort was made to gather enough laborers to take in the upcoming harvest; the muster and regulations concerning the workers luckily generated some results. The bricklayer and his team were busy repairing the column at South Head; due to a shortage of bricks at the kiln, the bricks from the little hut that had been built for Bennillong, which was completely abandoned by the natives and falling apart, were taken to South Head. Someone took on the task of collecting shells and turning them into lime, and a decent amount of that was sent down; the column, now finished with a thick layer of plaster and painted white, was not only better protected from the elements but also became a more visible landmark at sea than it had ever been before.

November.] On the 5th of November, the Sovereign store-ship arrived from England; her cargo a welcome one, being provisions. Like the Young William, she touched at Rio de Janeiro, and like her also had met with very bad weather after she had left that port until her arrival; from making the south cape of this country to her anchoring she had a passage of three weeks. In this ship arrived Mr. Thomas Hibbins, the deputy judge-advocate for Norfolk Island; but unfortunately without the patent under the great seal for holding the court. One settler also arrived, a Mr. Kennedy and his family (a sister and three nieces); and Mr. Joseph Gerald, a prisoner, whose present situation afforded another melancholy proof of how little profit and honor were the endowments of nature and education to him who perverted them. In this gentleman we saw, that not even elegant manners (evidently caught from good company), great abilities, and a happy mode of placing them in the best point of view, the gifts of nature matured by education, could (because he misapplied them) save him from landing an exile, to call him by no worse a name, on a barbarous shore, where the few who were civilized must pity, while they admired him. He arrived in a very weak and impaired state of health. We learned that two other ships with convicts, the Marquis Cornwallis and the Maria, might be expected to arrive in the course of this summer.

November.] On November 5th, the Sovereign store-ship arrived from England, bringing much-needed provisions. Like the Young William, she stopped in Rio de Janeiro and also encountered really bad weather after leaving that port, which delayed her arrival; it took her three weeks to travel from the southern cape of this country to her anchorage. Among the passengers was Mr. Thomas Hibbins, the deputy judge-advocate for Norfolk Island, but he unfortunately did not have the necessary patent under the great seal to hold court. Another settler, Mr. Kennedy, arrived with his family, which included a sister and three nieces. Also aboard was Mr. Joseph Gerald, a prisoner; his situation was a sad reminder of how little value nature and education had when misused. In him, we saw that even refined manners (obviously learned from good company), significant abilities, and a talent for presenting them well—gifts enhanced by education—could not prevent him from arriving as an exile, at best, on a savage shore, where the few civilized people there could only admire and pity him. He arrived in a very weak and poor state of health. We heard that two other ships carrying convicts, the Marquis Cornwallis and the Maria, were expected to arrive during the summer.

On the 7th, a criminal court was assembled, when the following persons were tried; viz. Samuel Chinnery (a black) servant to Mr. Arndell*, the assistant surgeon, for robbing that gentleman; but he was acquitted. ---- Smith and Abraham Whitehouse, for breaking into the dwelling-house of William Potter, a settler at Prospect Hill, and after cruelly treating the only person in the house, William Thorn, a servant) stripping it of all the moveables they could find, and killing and taking away some valuable stock; these were found guilty, and condemned to die: and two settlers, and six convicts, for an assault on one Marianne Wilkinson (attended with like circumstances of infamy as that on Mary Hartley in April last) of which three were found guilty, and sentenced, ---- Merchant, alias Jones, the principal, to receive one thousand lashes; the others, Ladley and Everitt, eight hundred each.

On the 7th, a criminal court was convened, where the following individuals were tried: Samuel Chinnery (a Black man) who worked as a servant for Mr. Arndell*, the assistant surgeon, for stealing from him; however, he was found not guilty. ---- Smith and Abraham Whitehouse were tried for breaking into the home of William Potter, a settler at Prospect Hill. They brutally assaulted the only person in the house, William Thorn (a servant), took all the valuables they could find, and killed some valuable livestock. They were found guilty and sentenced to death. Two settlers and six convicts were charged with assaulting one Marianne Wilkinson (in circumstances similar to those involving Mary Hartley last April), and three of them were found guilty and sentenced. Merchant, also known as Jones, the main perpetrator, was sentenced to receive one thousand lashes, while the others, Ladley and Everitt, were sentenced to eight hundred lashes each.

[* This gentleman had, on the arrival of Mr. Leeds, been permitted to retire from the civil duties of the colony with a salary of fifty pounds per annum.]

[* This gentleman had, upon Mr. Leeds' arrival, been allowed to step down from his civil duties in the colony with a salary of fifty pounds a year.]

These unmanly attacks of several men on a single woman had frequently happened, and had happened to some females who, through shame concealed the circumstance. To such a height indeed was this dissolute and abandoned practice carried, that it had obtained a cant name; and the poor unfortunate objects of this brutality were distinguished by a title expressive of the insults they had received.

These cowardly attacks by several men on one woman had happened often and had also affected some women who, out of shame, kept it a secret. This corrupt and reckless behavior had become so widespread that it acquired a specific name; and the unfortunate victims of this cruelty were labeled by a term that reflected the insults they endured.

On the 16th the two prisoners Smith and Whitehouse were led out to execution. Smith suffered, after warning the crowd which attended him to guard against breaking the Sabbath. Whitehouse, being evidently the tool of Smith, and a much younger man, was pardoned by the governor. His excellency, after the execution, expressed in public orders, his hope that neither the example he had that day found himself compelled to make of one offender, nor the lenity which he had shown to another, would be without their effect: it would always be more grateful to him to spare than to punish; but he felt it necessary on that occasion to declare, that if neither the justice which had been done, nor the mercy which had been shown, tended to decrease the perpetration of offences, it was his determination in future to put in execution whatever sentence should be pronounced on offenders by the court of criminal judicature.

On the 16th, the two prisoners, Smith and Whitehouse, were taken out for execution. Smith suffered, after warning the crowd to be mindful of breaking the Sabbath. Whitehouse, clearly being manipulated by Smith and much younger, was pardoned by the governor. His excellency, after the execution, publicly expressed his hope that the example he felt forced to set with one offender, and his leniency with the other, would have an impact: it would always be more satisfying for him to show mercy than to punish; however, he felt it necessary to declare that if neither the justice served nor the mercy shown reduced the number of crimes, he would enforce whatever penalties were decided by the court of criminal justice in the future.

A small printing-press, which had been brought into the settlement by Mr. Phillip, and had remained from that time unemployed, was now found very useful; a very decent young man, one George Hughes, of some abilities in the printing line, having been found equal to conducting the whole business of the press. All orders were now printed, and a number thrown off sufficient to ensure a more general publication of them than had hitherto been accomplished.

A small printing press that Mr. Phillip brought into the settlement and had been unused since then was now found to be very useful. A decent young man named George Hughes, who had some skills in printing, was found to be capable of handling the entire operation of the press. All orders were now printed, and enough copies were produced to guarantee a broader distribution than ever before.

Some time after the arrival of the Sovereign the full allowance of salt meat was issued, and the hours of public labour regulated, more to the advantage of government than had for a considerable time, owing to the shortness of the ration, been the case. Instead of completing in a few hours the whole labour which was required of a man for the day, the convicts were now to work the whole day, with the intermission of two hours and a half of rest. Many advantages were gained by this regulation; among which not the least was, the diminution of idle time which the prisoners before had, and which, emphatically terming their own time, they applied as they chose, some industriously, but by far the greater part in improper pursuits, as gaming, drinking, and stealing.

Some time after the arrival of the Sovereign, the full allowance of salt meat was provided, and the hours of public labor were regulated, benefiting the government more than it had for some time due to the short rations. Instead of finishing all the day's required work in just a few hours, the convicts were now expected to work the entire day, with a break of two and a half hours for rest. This regulation brought many advantages, one of which was the reduction of the idle time that the prisoners previously had, which they referred to as their own time. They used this time as they pleased, with some being industrious, but the majority engaging in improper activities like gambling, drinking, and stealing.

The full ration of flour was issued to the Military, on account of the 'hard duty which had lately fallen upon the regiment;' but they were informed, that the quantity of flour in the public store would not admit of their receiving such allowance for any length of time. Four pounds were issued to the prisoners, and some other grain given to them to make up the difference.

The full amount of flour was given to the Military because of the 'heavy duty that had recently been assigned to the regiment;' but they were told that the amount of flour in the public store wouldn’t allow them to receive that level of supply for long. Four pounds were given to the prisoners, and some other grain was provided to make up the difference.

On the 20th his Majesty's ship Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent four weeks and four days. She had a long passage back of seventeen days. When Mr. Kent left the island, the lieutenant-governor was dangerously ill with the gout in his stomach. We understood that cultivation was nearly at a stand there. The grounds were so over-run with two great enemies to agriculture, rats, and a pernicious weed called cow-itch*, that the settlers despaired of ever being able to get rid of either.

On the 20th, the king’s ship Supply came back from Norfolk Island after being away for four weeks and four days. The return trip took a long time—seventeen days. When Mr. Kent left the island, the lieutenant-governor was seriously ill with gout in his stomach. We heard that farming was almost at a halt there. The land was so overrun with two major threats to agriculture, rats and a harmful weed called cow-itch*, that the settlers had given up hope of getting rid of either.

[* The Pruriens, a species of the Dolichos.]

[* The Pruriens, a type of Dolichos.]

A circumstance happened this month not less extraordinary and unexpected than the discovery of the four convicts at Port Stephens.

A situation occurred this month that was just as extraordinary and unexpected as the discovery of the four convicts at Port Stephens.

The contests which had lately taken place very frequently in this town, and the neighbourhood of it, among the natives, had been attended by many of those people who inhabited the woods, and came from a great distance inland. Some of the prisoners gathering from time to time rumours and imperfect accounts of the existence of the cattle lost in 1788, two of them, who were employed by some officers in shooting, resolved on ascertaining the truth of these reports, and trying by different excursions to discover the place of their retreat. On their return from the first outset they made, which was subsequent to the governor's arrival, they reported, that they had seen them. Being, however, at that moment too much engaged in perfecting the civil regulations he had in view for the settlement, the governor could not himself go to that part of the country where they were said to have been found; but he detached Henry Hacking, a man on whom he could depend. His report was so satisfactory, that on the 18th the governor set off from Parramatta, attended by a small party, when after travelling two days, in a direction SSW from the settlement at Prospect Hill, he crossed the river named by Mr. Phillip the Nepean; and, to his great surprise and satisfaction, fell in with a very fine herd of cattle, upwards of forty in number, grazing in a pleasant and apparently fertile pasturage. The day being far advanced when he saw them, he rested for the night in their neighbourhood, hoping in the morning to be gratified with a sight of the whole herd. A doubt had been started of their being cattle produced from what we had brought into the country from the Cape; and it was suggested that they might be of longer standing. The governor thought this a circumstance worth determining, and directed the attendants who were with him (Hacking and the two men who had first found them) to endeavour in the morning to get near enough to kill a calf. This they were not able to effect; for, while lying in wait for the whole herd to pass (which now consisted of upwards of sixty young and old) they were furiously set upon by a bull, which brought up the rear, and which in their own defence they were compelled to kill. This however answered the purpose better perhaps than a calf might have done; for he had all the marks of the Cape cattle when full grown, such as wide-spreading horns, a moderate rising or hump between his shoulders, and a short thin tail. Being at this time seven or eight and thirty miles from Parramatta, a very small quantity of the meat only could be sent in; the remainder was left to the crows and dogs of the woods, much to the regret of the governor and his party*, who considered that the prisoners, particularly the sick at the hospital, had not lately received any meat either salt or fresh.

The contests that had recently taken place very often in this town and the surrounding area among the locals had drawn many people from the woods who traveled from far inland. Some of the prisoners, who occasionally heard rumors and incomplete accounts of the cattle lost in 1788, decided to find out the truth of these reports. Two of them, who were working for some officers, set out on different trips to locate where the cattle might be. Upon returning from their first journey after the governor's arrival, they reported that they had seen the cattle. However, the governor was too busy at that time establishing the civil regulations he had planned for the settlement to personally go to the area where the cattle were said to be found. Instead, he sent Henry Hacking, a reliable man. Hacking's report was so reassuring that on the 18th, the governor left Parramatta with a small group. After traveling for two days in a south-southwest direction from the settlement at Prospect Hill, he crossed the river Mr. Phillip named the Nepean and, to his surprise and pleasure, stumbled upon a very fine herd of cattle, over forty in number, grazing in a pleasant and seemingly fertile pasture. Since it was late in the day when he spotted them, he decided to rest nearby for the night, hoping to see the entire herd in the morning. There was some speculation about whether they were cattle brought from the Cape or if they had been there for a longer time. The governor thought it was worthwhile to find out and told his companions (Hacking and the two men who had first discovered the herd) to try to get close enough to kill a calf the next morning. However, they were unable to do so. While waiting for the whole herd, now over sixty strong, to pass, they were aggressively charged by a bull, the last member of the herd, and they had no choice but to kill it in self-defense. This turned out to be more beneficial than killing a calf, as the bull had all the characteristics of mature Cape cattle, such as wide-spreading horns, a moderate hump between its shoulders, and a short thin tail. Being seven or eight miles from Parramatta at that time, only a small amount of meat could be sent back; the rest was left for the crows and wild dogs, much to the disappointment of the governor and his group, who felt that the prisoners, especially the sick ones in the hospital, had not received any meat, either salted or fresh, recently.

[* Captain Waterhouse and Mr. Bass (surgeon) of the Reliance, and the writer of this Narrative.]

[* Captain Waterhouse and Mr. Bass (surgeon) of the Reliance, and the author of this Narrative.]

The country where they were found grazing was remarkably pleasant to the eye; every where the foot trod on thick and luxuriant grass; the trees were thinly scattered, and free from underwood, except in particular spots; several beautiful flats presented large ponds, covered with ducks and the black swan, the margins of which were fringed with shrubs of the most delightful tints, and the ground rose from these levels into hills of easy ascent.

The country where they were found grazing was incredibly beautiful; everywhere you walked, there was thick, lush grass. The trees were sparsely arranged and clear of underbrush, except in certain areas. Several lovely lowlands featured large ponds filled with ducks and black swans, with the edges lined by shrubs in the most delightful colors, and the land gently rose from these flat areas into hills that were easy to climb.

The question how these cattle came hither appeared easy of solution. The few that were lost in 1788, two bulls and five cows, travelled without interruption in a western direction until they came to the banks of the Nepean. Arrived there, and finding the crossing as easy as when the governor forded it, they came at once into a well-watered country, and amply stored with grass. From this place why should they move? They found themselves in possession of a country equal to their support, and in which they remained undisturbed. We had not yet travelled quite so far westward; and but few natives were to be found thereabouts; they were likely therefore to remain for years unmolested, and securely to propagate their species.

The question of how these cattle got here seemed easy to answer. The few that were lost in 1788, two bulls and five cows, traveled uninterrupted in a western direction until they reached the banks of the Nepean. Once they arrived and found the crossing as easy as when the governor crossed it, they immediately entered a well-watered area filled with grass. Why would they leave this place? They found themselves in a location that could sustain them, and they stayed undisturbed. We hadn't traveled quite that far west yet, and there were only a few natives around; so they were likely to remain undisturbed for years and to reproduce freely.

It was a pleasing circumstance to have in the woods of New Holland a thriving herd of wild cattle. Many proposals were made to bring them into the settlement; but in the day of want, if these should be sacrificed, in what better condition would the colony be for having possessed a herd of cattle in the woods?--a herd which, if suffered to remain undisturbed for some years, would, like the cattle of South America, always prove a market sufficient for the inhabitants of the country; and, perhaps, not only for their own consumption, but for exportation. The governor saw it in this light, and determined to guard, as much as was in his power, against any attempts to destroy them.

It was a great situation to have a healthy herd of wild cattle in the woods of New Holland. Many suggestions were made to bring them into the settlement; but in times of need, if they were sacrificed, how much better off would the colony be for having had a herd of cattle in the woods?—a herd that, if left undisturbed for a few years, would, like the cattle of South America, always provide a market for the people living there; and possibly not just for their own needs, but also for export. The governor viewed it this way and decided to protect them as much as he could from any attempts to destroy them.

On his return he found some very fine ground at the back of Prospect Hill. The weather during this excursion was so intensely hot, that one day as the party passed through a part of the country which was on fire, a terrier dog died by the way.

On his return, he found some really nice land at the back of Prospect Hill. The weather during this trip was so incredibly hot that one day, as the group passed through an area that was on fire, a terrier dog died along the way.

Discharging the store-ship, some part of the cargo of which appeared to be injured by the weather she had met with, formed the principal labour of the month. On account of the small number of working men which could be got together, the governor required two able men to be sent in for this purpose from each farm having ten, to be returned as soon as the provisions were stowed in the public store.

Discharging the supply ship, some of whose cargo seemed to be damaged by the weather it encountered, was the main task of the month. Due to the small number of workers available, the governor requested that two capable men be sent from each farm with ten workers, to be returned as soon as the supplies were stored in the public warehouse.

It having been the practice for some time past to shoot such hogs (pursuant to an order which their destructive qualities had rendered necessary in the lieutenant-governor's time) as were found trespassing in gardens or cultivated grounds, and the loss of the animals being greatly felt by the owners, as well as detrimental to the increase of that kind of stock, the governor directed, that instead of firing at them when found trespassing, they should be taken to the provost-marshal, by whom (if the damage done, which was to be ascertained before a magistrate, was not paid for within twenty-four hours) they were to be delivered to the commissary as public property, and the damages paid as far as the value of the animal would admit.

It has been common practice for some time to shoot pigs that were found trespassing in gardens or cultivated areas, due to an order made necessary by the damage they caused during the lieutenant-governor's time. The owners felt the loss of these animals significantly, and it also hurt the growth of that type of livestock. Therefore, the governor ordered that instead of shooting them when they were found trespassing, they should be taken to the provost-marshal. If the damage caused, which was to be assessed before a magistrate, wasn’t compensated within twenty-four hours, the pigs would be handed over to the commissary as public property, and the damages would be paid based on the animal's value.

A combination appearing among the labouring people to raise the price of reaping for a day, the governor, being as desirous to encourage industry as to check every attempt at imposition, thought it necessary, on comparing our's with the price usually paid in England, to direct that ten shillings, and no more, should be demanded of, or given by any settler, under pain of losing the assistance of government, for reaping an acre of wheat. It was much feared that this order would be but little attended to; and that some means would be devised on both sides to evade the letter of it.

A group of workers trying to raise the price for a day’s reaping made the governor want to promote hard work while also preventing exploitation. After comparing our rates with what’s typically paid in England, he decided that no more than ten shillings should be charged or paid by any settler for reaping an acre of wheat, with the threat of losing government support if this rule was ignored. There were concerns that this order wouldn’t be followed closely and that people on both sides would find ways to get around it.

We heard nothing of the natives at the river; all was quiet there. About this settlement their attention had been for some time engrossed by Bennillong, who arrived with the governor. On his first appearance, he conducted himself with a polished familiarity toward his sisters and other relations; but to his acquaintance he was distant, and quite the man of consequence. He declared, in a tone and with an air that seemed to expect compliance, that he should no longer suffer them to fight and cut each other's throats, as they had done; that he should introduce peace among them, and make them love each other. He expressed his wish that when they visited him at Government-house they would contrive to be somewhat more cleanly in their persons, and less coarse in their manners; and he seemed absolutely offended at some little indelicacies which he observed in his sister Car-rang-ar-ang, who came in such haste from Botany Bay, with a little nephew on her back, to visit him, that she left all her habiliments behind her.

We didn’t hear anything about the locals at the river; it was all quiet there. For a while, their focus had been on Bennillong, who arrived with the governor. When he first showed up, he acted with a polished familiarity towards his sisters and other relatives, but he was distant with his acquaintances and carried himself like someone important. He declared, in a tone that seemed to demand agreement, that he would no longer allow them to fight and hurt each other like they had been; that he would bring peace among them and help them love one another. He expressed his hope that when they visited him at Government House, they would manage to be a bit cleaner in their appearance and less rough in their behavior; he seemed genuinely offended by some minor awkwardness he noticed in his sister Car-rang-ar-ang, who rushed over from Botany Bay with her little nephew on her back, forgetting all her clothes.

Bennillong had certainly not been an inattentive observer of the manners of the people among whom he had lived; he conducted himself with the greatest propriety at table, particularly in the observance of those attentions which are chiefly requisite in the presence of women. His dress appeared to be an object of no small concern with him; and every one who knew him before he left the country, and who saw him now, pronounced without hesitation that Bennillong had not any desire to renounce the habits and comforts of the civilized life which he appeared so readily and so successfully to adopt.

Bennillong had definitely been a careful observer of the behaviors of the people he lived with; he acted very appropriately at the table, especially in showing the courtesies that are especially important in the company of women. His clothing seemed to be a significant concern for him; and everyone who knew him before he left the country and saw him now quickly agreed that Bennillong didn't want to give up the habits and comforts of civilized life that he seemed to embrace so easily and successfully.

His inquiries were directed, immediately on his arrival, after his wife Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo; and her he found with Caruey. On producing a very fashionable rose-coloured petticoat and jacket made of a coarse stuff, accompanied with a gypsy bonnet of the same colour, she deserted her lover, and followed her former husband. In a few days however, to the surprise of every one, we saw the lady walking unencumbered with clothing of any kind, and Bennillong was missing. Caruey was sought for, and we heard that he had been severely beaten by Bennillong at Rose Bay, who retained so much of our customs, that he made use of his fists instead of the weapons of his country, to the great annoyance of Caruey, who would have preferred meeting his rival fairly in the field armed with the spear and the club. Caruey being much the younger man, the lady, every inch a woman, followed her inclination, and Bennillong was compelled to yield her without any further opposition. He seemed to have been satisfied with the beating he had given Caruey, and hinted, that resting for the present without a wife, he should look about him, and at some future period make a better choice.

His inquiries were directed, immediately upon his arrival, after his wife Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo; and he found her with Caruey. When she produced a trendy rose-colored petticoat and jacket made of a rough fabric, along with a gypsy bonnet of the same color, she left her lover and followed her ex-husband. However, a few days later, to everyone’s surprise, we saw the lady walking without any clothes at all, and Bennillong was missing. Caruey was searched for, and we heard that he had been badly beaten by Bennillong at Rose Bay, who still held onto many of our customs by using his fists instead of traditional weapons, much to Caruey’s annoyance, as he would have preferred to face his rival in the field armed with a spear and club. Since Caruey was much younger, the lady, very much a woman, followed her heart, and Bennillong had to give her up without further protest. He seemed satisfied with the beating he had given Caruey and suggested that for now, without a wife, he would take some time to look around and at some point make a better choice.

Portraits of Ben-nil-long, Wo-lar-ra-bar-ray, Wo-gul-trow-el Boin-ba, and Bun-de-bun-da.

His absences from the governor's house now became frequent, and little attended to. When he went out he usually left his clothes behind, resuming them carefully on his return before he made his visit to the governor.

His absences from the governor's house became more frequent and were barely noticed. When he went out, he usually left his clothes behind, putting them on carefully when he returned before visiting the governor.

During this month one man and a woman, attempting to cross one of the creeks at the Hawkesbury by a tree which had been thrown over, fell in, and were drowned; and one man had died there of the bite of a snake. Three male convicts* died at Sydney.

During this month, a man and a woman trying to cross one of the creeks at the Hawkesbury using a fallen tree fell in and drowned; and one man died there from a snake bite. Three male convicts* died in Sydney.

[* One of them, William Locker, from the extraordinary deformity of his left leg, had been offered £100 for it in England.]

[* One of them, William Locker, had been offered £100 for his oddly shaped left leg in England.]

December.] The court of civil judicature had hitherto been but rarely assembled. The few debts which had been contracted were not of sufficient moment, and had seldom remained long enough in doubt, to require an action to recover them. But now the possibility having been discovered of acquiring in this country a property worth preserving, it was probable, when the talents and disposition of the men of landed property (the settlers) in New South Wales were considered, that many disputes would occur among them which the civil court alone could decide.

December.] The civil court hadn't been convened very often until now. The few debts that had been incurred weren't significant enough and didn't stay uncertain long enough to need legal action for recovery. But now that it's been found possible to acquire valuable property in this country, it seemed likely that, considering the skills and tendencies of the settlers in New South Wales, many disputes would arise among them that only the civil court could resolve.

A court of civil judicature was assembled this month. Some debts were sworn to, and writs granted. An action for an assault was also tried. About the latter end of the month of October, a large sow, the property of Mr. J. Boston, having trespassed with two or three other hogs on a close belonging to an officer of the New South Wales corps, was shot by a soldier of the regiment (the officer's servant). The owner, Mr. Boston, repairing immediately to the spot, on seeing the sow, then near farrowing, lying dead on the ground, made use of some intemperate expressions; which being uttered in the hearing of two of the officers and some other soldiers of the corps, the officers were said by Mr. Boston to have encouraged and urged the soldiers to beat him. Mr. Boston had been struck, and, as it appeared on the trial, with a musket, which at the time was loaded. Mr. Boston laid his damage at five hundred pounds. The court however, after several days very attentive examination of the business, gave him a verdict against two of the defendants, with twenty shillings damages from each. One of these defendants, a soldier, was advised to appeal from the decision of the court to the governor, who, after hearing the appeal, confirmed the verdict of the civil court.

A civil court met this month. Some debts were verified, and writs were issued. A case regarding an assault was also heard. Towards the end of October, a large sow owned by Mr. J. Boston wandered onto land belonging to an officer of the New South Wales corps, accompanied by two or three other pigs, and was shot by a soldier (the officer's servant). Mr. Boston immediately went to the location and, upon seeing the dead sow, which was close to giving birth, became very upset and expressed himself harshly. This was overheard by two officers and some other soldiers, and Mr. Boston claimed that the officers encouraged the soldiers to attack him. Mr. Boston was assaulted, apparently with a musket that was loaded at the time. He claimed damages of five hundred pounds. However, after several days of careful examination of the case, the court ruled in his favor against two of the defendants, awarding him twenty shillings in damages from each. One of the defendants, a soldier, was advised to appeal the court’s decision to the governor, who upheld the civil court's verdict after reviewing the appeal.

On the 6th the Francis schooner sailed for Norfolk Island. The governor, being anxious to learn the situation of the lieutenant-governor, sent her merely with a letter, that if unhappily any accident should have happened to him, a proper person might be sent in the Reliance to command the settlement, until a successor could arrive from England. Having nothing to deliver or receive that could detain him, the master determined to try in what time his vessel could run thither and back again.

On the 6th, the Francis schooner set off for Norfolk Island. The governor, eager to find out about the lieutenant-governor's situation, sent her with just a letter so that, if anything unfortunate had happened to him, a suitable person could be sent in the Reliance to lead the settlement until a replacement arrived from England. With no deliveries or pickups that would hold him up, the captain decided to see how quickly his ship could make the round trip.

The harvest was begun in this month. The Cape wheat (a bearded grain differing much from the English) was found universally to have failed. An officer who had sown seven acres with this seed at a farm in the district of Petersham Hill, on cutting it down, found it was not worth the reaping. This was owing to a blight; but every where the Cape wheat was pronounced not worth the labour of sowing.

The harvest started this month. The Cape wheat (a bearded grain quite different from the English variety) was found to have failed everywhere. An officer who planted seven acres with this seed on a farm in the Petersham Hill area discovered that it wasn't worth harvesting. This was due to a blight; but everywhere, the Cape wheat was considered not worth the effort of sowing.

A quantity of useful timber having been for some time past indiscriminately cut down upon the banks of the River Hawkesbury, and the creeks running from it, which had been wasted or applied to purposes for which timber of less value might have answered, the governor, among other colonial regulations, thought it necessary to direct, that no timber whatever should be cut down on any ground which was not marked out on either the banks or creeks of that river: and, in order to preserve as much as possible such timber as might be of use either for building or for naval purposes, he ordered the king's mark to be immediately put on all such timber, after which any persons offending against the order were to be prosecuted. This order extended only to grounds not granted to individuals, there being a clause in all grants from the crown, expressly reserving, under pain of forfeiture, for the use thereof, 'such timber as might be growing or to grow hereafter upon the land so granted, which should be deemed fit for naval purposes.'

A significant amount of useful timber had been carelessly cut down along the banks of the Hawkesbury River and its creeks for some time, often wasted or used for less valuable purposes. The governor, along with other colonial regulations, decided it was crucial to mandate that no timber should be cut down on any land not clearly marked along the riverbanks or creeks. To protect as much useful timber as possible for building or naval uses, he ordered that the king's mark be placed on all such timber immediately. Anyone who violated this order would face prosecution. This order applied only to land not granted to individuals, as all grants from the crown included a clause reserving, under penalty of forfeiture, 'such timber as might be growing or to grow hereafter upon the land so granted, which should be deemed fit for naval purposes.'

It was feared, that the certainty of the existence of our cattle to the southward being incontrovertibly established, some of our vagabonds might be tempted to find them out, and satisfy their hunger on them from time to time, as they might find opportunity. We were therefore not surprised to hear that two of them had been killed. A very strict inquiry into the report, however, convinced us that it had been raised only for the purpose of trying how such a circumstance would be regarded. The governor thought it necessary therefore to state in public orders, that,

It was feared that now that we were sure our cattle existed to the south, some of our wanderers might be tempted to track them down and satisfy their hunger whenever they got the chance. So, we weren't shocked to hear that two of them had been killed. However, a thorough investigation into the report made it clear that it was only fabricated to see how people would react to such news. The governor felt it was necessary to address this in public orders, that,

Having heard it reported, that some person or persons, who had been permitted to carry arms for the protection of themselves and property, had lately employed that indulgence in an attempt to destroy the cattle belonging to government, which were at large in the woods; and as the preservation of that stock was of the utmost importance to the colony at large, he declared, that if it should be discovered that any person whatever should use any measure to destroy or otherwise annoy them, they would be prosecuted with the utmost severity of the law.

After hearing reports that someone or a group of people, who were allowed to carry weapons for their own protection and to safeguard their property, had recently misused that privilege by trying to harm government cattle that were roaming in the woods; and considering that protecting that livestock was extremely important for the colony, he announced that if anyone was found to be taking any actions to destroy or bother them in any way, they would face harsh legal consequences.

A reward was also held out to any person giving information, and the order was made as public as possible that no one might plead ignorance of it.

A reward was also promised to anyone who provided information, and the order was made as public as possible so that no one could claim they didn’t know about it.

The harvest having commenced, the governor on the 22nd signified to the settlers, that

The harvest had begun, and on the 22nd, the governor informed the settlers that

although it had hitherto been the intention and the practice of government to give them every possible encouragement, as well as others who had employed themselves in growing corn, by taking off their hands all their surplus grain at such prices as had from time to time been thought fair and reasonable, it was not, however, to be expected, as the colony advanced in the means of supplying itself with bread, that such heavy expences could be continued. He therefore recommended to them to consider what reduction in the price of wheat and Indian corn they could at present submit to, as their offers in that respect would determine him how far it might be necessary in future to cultivate on the part of government, instead of taking or purchasing a quantity from individuals at so great a price.

Although the government's intention and practice had always been to support them and others growing corn by buying all their surplus grain at prices deemed fair and reasonable over time, it was unrealistic to expect that such high expenses could continue as the colony became better equipped to produce its own bread. He therefore suggested that they think about what reduction in the price of wheat and corn they could currently accept, as their proposals would guide him on how much the government might need to cultivate in the future instead of buying large quantities from individuals at such high prices.

This proposal, he thought, could not be considered otherwise than as fair and reasonable, when they recollected that the means by which individuals had so far improved their farms had arisen from the very liberal manner in which government had given up the labour of so great a number of its own servants, to assist the industry of others. If this representation should not have the effect which he hoped and expected, by a reduction of the present high price of grain, he thought it his duty to propose, that those who were assisted with servants from government, should at least undertake to furnish those servants with bread.

This proposal, he believed, could only be seen as fair and reasonable, especially when considering that the way people have improved their farms is largely due to the generous way the government has allowed so many of its own workers to help others. If this suggestion doesn’t achieve the effect he hoped for, which is to lower the current high price of grain, he felt it was his responsibility to propose that those who received government assistance with workers should at least agree to provide those workers with food.

To those who had farms on the banks of the Hawkesbury he thought it necessary to observe, that, there not being any granaries in that district belonging to government, the expense of conveying their grain from thence to this part of the settlement rendered it absolutely necessary that they should lower their prices; otherwise they must be at that expence themselves, and bring their surplus corn to market either at Sydney or Parramatta, where government had stores where in to deposit it, and where only the commissary could be permitted to receive it.

To those who had farms along the Hawkesbury River, he felt it was important to point out that, since there weren't any government granaries in that area, the cost of transporting their grain to this part of the settlement made it essential for them to lower their prices. Otherwise, they would have to cover those costs themselves and take their extra corn to market either in Sydney or Parramatta, where the government had storage facilities and only the commissary was allowed to receive it.

A report from the river was current about this time, that the natives had assembled in a large body, and attacked a few settlers who had chosen farms low down the river, and without the reach of protection from the other settlers, stripping them of every article they could find in their huts. An armed party was directly sent out, who, coming up with them, killed four men and one woman, badly wounded a child, and took four men prisoners. It might have been supposed that these punishments, following the enormities so immediately, would have taught the natives to keep at a greater distance; but nothing seemed to deter them from prosecuting the revenge they had vowed against the settlers for the injuries they had received at their hands.

A report from the river came in around this time, saying that the natives had gathered in large numbers and attacked some settlers who had chosen farms further down the river, out of reach of protection from other settlers, taking everything they could find in their huts. An armed group was immediately sent out, and when they caught up with the natives, they killed four men and one woman, badly injured a child, and took four men prisoner. One might think that these punishments, happening right after such attacks, would have taught the natives to stay away; however, nothing seemed to stop them from continuing their revenge against the settlers for the harm they had suffered at their hands.

A savage of a darker hue, and full as far removed from civilisation, black Caesar, once more fled from honest labour to the woods, there to subsist by robbing the settlers. It was however reported, that he had done one meritorious action, killing Pe-mul-wy, who had just before wounded Collins (the native) so dangerously, that his recovery was a matter of very great doubt with the surgeons at our hospital, whose assistance Collins had requested as soon as he was brought into town by his friends. A barbed spear had been driven into his loins close by the vertebrae of the back, and was so completely fixed, that all the efforts of the surgeons to remove it with their instruments were ineffectual. Finding, after a day or two, that it could not be displaced by art, Collins left the hospital determined to trust to nature.* He was much esteemed by every white man who knew him, as well on account of his personal bravery, of which we had witnessed many distinguishing proofs, as on account of a gentleness of manners which strongly marked his disposition, and shaded off the harsher lines that his uncivilised life now and then forced into the fore-ground.

A dark-skinned savage, far removed from civilization, Black Caesar once again escaped from honest work to the woods, where he survived by robbing settlers. However, it was reported that he had done one commendable thing: he killed Pe-mul-wy, who had just seriously injured Collins (the native) to the point that the surgeons at our hospital doubted his recovery. Collins had called for their help as soon as his friends brought him into town. A barbed spear had been driven into his lower back near the vertebrae, and it was so deeply embedded that the surgeons couldn’t remove it with their tools. After a day or two of finding that it couldn’t be dislodged by medical skill, Collins decided to leave the hospital and trust in nature. He was well-respected by every white man who knew him, both for his bravery—of which we had seen many notable examples—and for his gentle demeanor, which softened the harsher traits that his uncivilized life occasionally brought to the surface.

[* And he did not trust in vain. We saw him from time to time for several weeks walking about with the spear unmoved, even after suppuration had taken place; but at last heard that his wife, or one of his male friends, had fixed their teeth in the wood and drawn it out; after which he recovered, and was able again to go into the field. His wife War-re-weer showed by an uncommon attention her great attachment to him.]

[* He didn’t trust for nothing. We saw him over several weeks walking around with the spear still in place, even after it got infected; but eventually we learned that his wife or one of his male friends had bitten into the wood and pulled it out. After that, he recovered and was able to go back into the field. His wife, War-re-weer, showed her deep affection for him through her unusual care.]

On the 27th the Sovereign sailed for Bengal; and on the last day of the year the signal for a sail was made at the South Head, too late in the day for it to be known what or whence the vessel was.

On the 27th, the Sovereign headed out for Bengal; and on the last day of the year, a signal for a sail was raised at the South Head, too late in the day to learn what the vessel was or where it came from.

The harvest formed the principal labour this month both public and private. At Sydney, another attempt being made to steal a cask of pork from the pile of provisions which stood before the storehouse, the whole was removed into one of the old marine barracks. The full ration of salt provisions being issued to every one, it was difficult to conceive what could be the inducement to these frequent and wanton attacks on the provisions, whenever necessity compelled the commissary to trust a quantity without the store. Perhaps, however, it was to gratify that strong, propensity to thieving, which could not suffer an opportunity of exercising their talents to pass, or to furnish them with means of indulging in the baneful vice of gaming.

The harvest was the main focus this month, both for work and for personal reasons. In Sydney, another attempt was made to steal a cask of pork from the supply of food in front of the storehouse, so everything was moved to one of the old marine barracks. Since everyone was given their full ration of salt provisions, it was hard to understand what motivated these frequent and reckless attacks on the supplies whenever the commissary had to leave a quantity outside the store. Maybe it was just to satisfy that strong urge to steal, which couldn't pass up the chance to show off their skills or provide them with a way to indulge in the harmful habit of gambling.

At the Hawkesbury, in the beginning of the month, an extraordinary meteorological phenomenon occurred. Four farms on the creek named Ruse's Creek were totally cut up by a fall, not of hail or of snow, but of large flakes of ice. It was stated by the officer who had the command of the military there, Lieutenant Abbott, that the shower passed in a direction NW taking such farms as fell within its course. The effect was extraordinary; the wheat then standing was beaten down, the ears cut off, and the grain perfectly threshed out. Of the Indian corn the large thick stalks were broken, and the cobs found lying at the roots, A man who was too far distant from a house to enter it in time was glad to take shelter in the hollow of a tree. The sides of the trees which were opposed to its fury appeared as if large shot had been discharged against them, and the ground was covered with small twigs from the branches. On that part of the race-ground which it crossed, the stronger shrubs were all found cut to pieces, while the weaker, by yielding to the storm, were only beaten down. The two succeeding days were remarkably mild; notwithstanding which the ice remained on the ground nearly as large as when it fell. Some flakes of it were brought to Lieutenant Abbott on the second day, which measured from six to eight inches long, and at that time were two fingers at the least in thickness.

At the Hawkesbury, at the start of the month, an unusual weather event took place. Four farms along Ruse's Creek were completely devastated by a fall, not of hail or snow, but of large ice flakes. Lieutenant Abbott, who was in charge of the military there, reported that the shower moved in a NW direction, affecting all the farms in its path. The impact was remarkable; the standing wheat was flattened, the ears were sheared off, and the grain was threshed out completely. The thick stalks of Indian corn were broken, and the cobs were found lying at the roots. A man who was too far from any building to reach it in time was fortunate to be able to take cover in the hollow of a tree. The sides of the trees facing the storm looked as if large pellets had been fired at them, and the ground was littered with small twigs from the branches. On the section of the racetrack that it crossed, the sturdier shrubs were all shredded, while the weaker ones, by bending with the wind, only got knocked down. The next two days were unseasonably mild; however, the ice remained on the ground nearly as large as when it fell. Some flakes were brought to Lieutenant Abbott on the second day, measuring between six to eight inches long, and at that time, they were at least two fingers thick.

On this officer's representing to the governor the distress which the settlers had suffered whose farms had lain in the course of the shower such relief was given them as their situations required. Nothing of this kind had been felt either at Parramatta or at Sydney.

On this officer's report to the governor about the hardships the settlers faced when their farms were affected by the storm, they were provided relief based on their needs. No such issues had been experienced in either Parramatta or Sydney.

There died this month Mr. Barrow, a midshipman belonging to his Majesty's ship Supply. His death, which was rather sudden, was occasioned by an obstruction in the bowels, brought on by bathing when very much heated and full. He had attended divine service on the Sunday preceding his death, and heard Mr. Johnson preach on uncertainty of human life, little thinking how soon he was himself to prove the verity of the principal point of his discourse--'That death stole upon us like a thief in the night.'

This month, Mr. Barrow, a midshipman on His Majesty's ship Supply, passed away. His death was quite sudden and caused by a blockage in his intestines, which resulted from bathing while overheated and full. He had attended church service the Sunday before his death and listened to Mr. Johnson preach about the uncertainty of human life, hardly realizing how soon he would demonstrate the truth of the main point of the sermon—'That death comes upon us like a thief in the night.'

Two male convicts died at Sydney. One of them, John Durham, had been for upwards of two years a venereal patient in the hospital; and died at last a wretched but exemplary spectacle to all who beheld him, or who knew his sufferings. There died, during the year 1795, one assistant to the surgeons; one sergeant of the New South Wales corps; two settlers; thirteen male convicts; seven female convicts and one child; and one male convict was executed. Making a total of twenty-six persons who lost their livesduring the year.

Two male prisoners died in Sydney. One of them, John Durham, had been a venereal patient in the hospital for over two years and ultimately died, serving as a tragic yet cautionary example to all who saw him or knew about his suffering. In the year 1795, there were one assistant to the surgeons, one sergeant of the New South Wales corps, two settlers, thirteen male convicts, seven female convicts, and one child who died; additionally, one male convict was executed. This brings the total to twenty-six individuals who lost their lives that year.

CHAPTER XXX

The Arthur arrives from India
Francis from Norfolk Island
A theater opens
Her Majesty's birthday celebrated
Stills destroyed
Ceres storeship arrives
and Experiment from India
Ship Otter from America
Indigenous people
Harvest brought in
Deaths
A hut demolished by the military
A transport arrives with prisoners from Ireland
A criminal court held
Caesar shot
General court martial
Otter takes away Mr. Muir
Abigail from America arrives
A forgery committed
Works
The Reliance
Details regarding Mr. Bampton, and about the fate of Captain Hill and Mr. Carter
A schooner arrives from Duskey-Bay
Crops poor
Robberies committed
Supply for Norfolk Island
Indigenous people
Bennillong
Cornwallis sets sail
Gerald and Skirving die

1796.]

1796.

January] On the first of this month, the Arthur brig anchored in the cove from Calcutta. Mr. Barber, who was here in 1794 in the same vessel, had been induced by the success he then met with to pay us a second visit, with a cargo similar as to the nature of the articles, but of much larger value than that which he then sold. He had been thirteen weeks on his passage, and had heard nothing of the Britannia.

January] On the first of this month, the Arthur brig anchored in the cove from Calcutta. Mr. Barber, who was here in 1794 on the same ship, was motivated by his previous success to come back for a second visit, bringing a cargo that was similar in type but worth much more than what he sold before. He had spent thirteen weeks on his journey and hadn’t heard anything about the Britannia.

It appeared from the information he brought us, that the Cape of Good Hope might at that time be in the possession of the English. Trincomale had surrendered to our arms; but of Batavia he could only say, that a strong party in the French interest existed there.

It seemed from the information he provided that the Cape of Good Hope might have been in English hands at that time. Trincomalee had fallen to our forces; however, regarding Batavia, he could only mention that there was a strong faction supporting the French there.

The Surprise, Captain Campbell, had arrived at Bengal after a long passage of eight months from this port.

The Surprise, Captain Campbell, had arrived in Bengal after a long journey of eight months from this port.

In the evening of the following day the colonial vessel returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent just four weeks. Lieutenant-governor King continued extremely ill.

In the evening of the next day, the colonial ship returned from Norfolk Island, having been gone for just four weeks. Lieutenant-governor King remained very sick.

In consequence of the order issued last month respecting a reduction in the price of wheat, the settlers, having consulted among themselves, deputed a certain number from the different districts to state to the governor the hardships they should be subjected to by a reduction in the price of grain, at least for that season. He therefore consented to purchase their present crops of wheat at ten shillings per bushel; but at the same time assured them, that a reduction would be made in the ensuing season, unless some unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances should occur to render it unnecessary.

As a result of the order issued last month about lowering the price of wheat, the settlers, after discussing among themselves, chose a few representatives from different areas to explain to the governor the difficulties they would face due to the price drop in grain, at least for this season. He agreed to buy their current wheat crops at ten shillings per bushel; however, he also informed them that a price reduction would happen in the next season unless some unexpected and unavoidable circumstances arose that would make it unnecessary.

The officers who held ground offered to give up two of the number of men the governor had allowed them, and to take two others off the provision-store, which proposal was directed to be carried into execution.

The officers in charge offered to release two of the men the governor had assigned to them and replace them with two others from the supply store, and this proposal was approved for implementation.

Some of the more decent class of prisoners, male and female, having some time since obtained permission to prepare a playhouse* at Sydney, it was opened on Saturday the 16th, under the management of John Sparrow, with the play of The Revenge and the entertainment of The Hotel. They had fitted up the house with more theatrical propriety than could have been expected, and their performance was far above contempt. Their motto was modest and well chosen--'We cannot command success, but will endeavour to deserve it.' Of their dresses the greater part was made by themselves; but we understood that some veteran articles from the York theatre were among the best that made their appearance.

Some of the more respectable prisoners, both men and women, had received permission some time ago to set up a theater in Sydney. It officially opened on Saturday the 16th, managed by John Sparrow, featuring the play The Revenge and the performance The Hotel. They decorated the venue with more theatrical flair than anyone could have anticipated, and their performance was surprisingly impressive. Their motto was humble and well chosen: 'We cannot guarantee success, but we will strive to deserve it.' Most of their costumes were made by themselves, but we heard that some veteran pieces from the York theater were among the standout items showcased.

[* The he building cost upwards of one hundred pounds. The names of the principal performers were, H. Green, J. Sparrow (the manager), William Fowkes, G. H. Hughes, William Chapman, and Mrs. Davis. Of the men, Green best deserved to be called an actor.]

[* The building cost over one hundred pounds. The main performers were H. Green, J. Sparrow (the manager), William Fowkes, G. H. Hughes, William Chapman, and Mrs. Davis. Among the men, Green was the one most deserving of being called an actor.]

At the licensing of this exhibition they were informed, that the slightest impropriety would be noticed, and a repetition punished by the banishment of their company to the other settlements; there was, however, more danger of improprieties being committed by some of the audience than by the players themselves. A seat in their gallery, which was by far the largest place in the house, as likely to be the most resorted to, was to be procured for one shilling. In the payment of this price for admission, one evil was observable, which in fact could not well be prevented; in lieu of a shilling, as much flour, or as much meat or spirits, as the manager would take for that sum, was often paid at the gallery door. It was feared that this, like gambling, would furnish another inducement to rob; and some of the worst of the convicts, ever on the watch for opportunities, looked on the playhouse as a certain harvest for them, not by picking the pockets of the audience of their purses or their watches, but by breaking into their houses while the whole family might be enjoying themselves in the gallery. This actually happened on the second night of their playing.

At the opening of this exhibition, they were warned that even the smallest misbehavior would be noticed, and any repeat offenses would lead to their being sent away to other settlements. However, there was actually more risk of misbehavior from some members of the audience than from the performers themselves. A seat in their gallery, which was by far the biggest area in the venue and likely to attract the most people, could be obtained for one shilling. One issue with this admission price was noticeable and couldn’t really be avoided; instead of paying a shilling, people often brought as much flour, meat, or alcohol as the manager would accept for that amount at the gallery entrance. It was feared that this practice, similar to gambling, would encourage theft. Some of the worst convicts, always on the lookout for chances to steal, viewed the theater as a golden opportunity—not by pickpocketing the audience for their wallets or watches, but by breaking into their homes while the entire family was enjoying the show in the gallery. This actually happened on the second night of their performance.

The 18th was observed as the day on which her Majesty's birth is celebrated in England.* The troops fired three volleys at noon, and at one o'clock the king's ships fired twenty-one guns each, in honour of the day.

The 18th was recognized as the day her Majesty's birthday is celebrated in England.* The troops fired three volleys at noon, and at one o'clock the king's ships fired twenty-one guns each to honor the occasion.

[* The anniversary of her Majesty's birth might with greater propriety be kept in the colonies, particularly in New South Wales, on the 19th of May, the day on which it happened, than at any other time; the same reasons for observing it at a time distant from the king's not existing there. This is attended to in India.]

[* The anniversary of the Queen's birthday should be more appropriately celebrated in the colonies, especially in New South Wales, on May 19th, the actual date of her birth, rather than at any other time; the reasons for observing it at a different time from the king's birthday do not apply there. This is also noted in India.]

Among other objects of civil regulation which required the governor's attention was one to remedy an evil of great magnitude. Some individuals formed the strange design of making application to the governor for his licence to erect stills in different parts of the settlement. On inquiry it appeared, that for a considerable time past they had been in the practice of making and vending a spirit, the quality of which was of so destructive a nature, that the health of the settlement in general was much endangered.

Among other matters needing the governor's attention was a serious issue. Some people had the unusual idea of asking the governor for permission to set up stills in various parts of the settlement. Upon investigation, it became clear that for quite some time, they had been producing and selling a type of alcohol that was so harmful that it seriously threatened the health of the entire community.

A practice so iniquitous and ruinous, being not only a direct disobedience of his Majesty's commands, but destructive of the welfare of the colony in general, the governor in the most positive manner forbade all persons on any pretence whatsoever to distil spirituous liquors of any kind or quality, on pain of such steps being taken for their punishment as would effectually prevent a repetition of so dangerous an offence. The constables of the different districts, as well as all other persons whose duty it was to preserve order, were strictly enjoined to be extremely vigilant in discovering and giving information where and in whose possession any article or machine for the purpose of distilling spirits might then be, or should hereafter be erected in opposition to this notification of the governor's resolution. Information on this subject was to be given to the nearest magistrate, who was to send the earliest notice in his power to the judge-advocate at Sydney.

A practice that is both immoral and harmful, being not only a direct disobedience of the King's commands but also damaging to the overall welfare of the colony, the governor firmly prohibited anyone from distilling alcoholic beverages of any kind or quality, under threat of punishment that would effectively prevent a repeat of such a dangerous offense. The constables in different districts, along with all others responsible for maintaining order, were strictly instructed to be very watchful in spotting and reporting where any equipment or materials for distilling alcohol were located or would be set up in defiance of the governor's announcement. Any information on this matter was to be reported to the nearest magistrate, who would then promptly notify the judge-advocate in Sydney.

In pursuance of these directions several stills were found and destroyed, to the great regret of the owners, who from a bushel of wheat (worth at the public store ten shillings) distilled a gallon of a new and poisonous spirit, which they retailed directly from the still at five shillings per quart bottle, and sometimes more. This was not merely paid away for labour, as was pretended, but sold for the purposes of intoxication to whoever would bring ready money.

In line with these orders, several stills were discovered and destroyed, much to the dismay of the owners, who were able to distill a gallon of a new and harmful spirit from a bushel of wheat (worth ten shillings at the public store). They sold it directly from the still for five shillings per quart bottle, and sometimes even more. This wasn't just payment for labor, as they claimed, but was sold for the purpose of getting people drunk to anyone who had cash on hand.

Little or no attention having been paid to the order issued in October last respecting removing the paling about the stream, the governor found it necessary to repeat it, and to declare in public orders, 'to every description of persons, that when an order was given by him, it was given to be obeyed.' This had become absolutely necessary, as there were some who, in open defiance of his directions, not only still opened the paling, but took with dirty vessels the water which they wanted above the tanks, thereby disturbing and polluting the whole stream below.

Little or no attention having been paid to the order issued last October regarding the removal of the fence by the stream, the governor found it necessary to repeat it and publicly state, "to everyone, that when an order is given by me, it is meant to be followed." This had become absolutely necessary, as some people, in blatant disregard of his directions, not only opened the fence again but also used dirty containers to take water they wanted from above the tanks, disturbing and polluting the entire stream below.

Several attempts had been made by the commissary to ascertain the number of arms in the possession of individuals; it being feared, that, instead of their being properly distributed among the settlers for their protection, many were to be found in the hands of persons who used them in shooting, or in committing depredations. It was once more attempted to discover their number, by directing all persons (the military excepted) who were in possession of arms to bring them to the commissary's office, where, after registering them, they were to receive certificates signed by him, of their being permitted to carry such arms.

Several attempts were made by the commissary to find out how many weapons individuals owned. There was concern that instead of being properly distributed among the settlers for their protection, many were in the hands of people who used them for hunting or committing crimes. It was tried again to determine their number by asking everyone (except for the military) who had weapons to bring them to the commissary’s office, where, after registering them, they would receive certificates signed by him that allowed them to carry those weapons.

Some few settlers, who valued their arms as necessary to their defence against the natives and against thieves, hastened to the office for their certificate; but of between two and three hundred stands of arms which belonged to the crown not fifty were accounted for.

Some settlers, who saw their weapons as essential for protection against the natives and thieves, rushed to the office for their certificate; however, of the two to three hundred firearms that belonged to the crown, fewer than fifty were accounted for.

The many robberies which were almost daily and nightly committed rendered it expedient that some steps should be taken to put a stop to an evil so destructive of the happiness and comfort of the industrious inhabitants. Caesar was still in the woods, with several other vagabonds, all of whom were reported, by people who saw them from time to time, to be armed; and as he had sent us word, that he neither would come in, nor suffer himself to be taken alive, it became necessary to secure him. Notice was therefore given, that whoever should secure and bring him in with his arms should receive as a reward five gallons of spirits. The settlers, and those people who were occasionally supplied with ammunition by the officers, were informed, that if they should be hereafter discovered to have so abused the confidence placed in them, as to supply those common plunderers with any part of this ammunition, they would be deemed accomplices in the robberies committed by them, and steps would be taken to bring them to punishment as accessories.

The frequent robberies happening almost every day and night made it necessary to take action against such a destructive threat to the happiness and well-being of the hardworking residents. Caesar was still in the woods, along with several other outlaws, who were reported by people who occasionally spotted them to be armed. Since he had sent us a message saying that he wouldn’t come in or let himself be captured alive, we needed to find a way to secure him. So, an announcement was made that anyone who could capture and bring him in along with his weapons would receive a reward of five gallons of liquor. The settlers and those who occasionally got ammunition from the officers were warned that if it was discovered they had misused the trust given to them by supplying these common thieves with any ammunition, they would be considered accomplices in the robberies and legal action would be taken against them as accessories.

To relieve the mind from the contemplation of circumstances so irksome to humanity, on the 23rd the Ceres store-ship arrived from England. It was impossible that a ship could ever reach this distant part of his Majesty's dominions, from England, or from any other part of the world, without bringing a change to our ideas, and a variety to our amusements. The introduction of a stranger among us had ever been an object of some moment; for every civility was considered to be due to him who had left the civilized world to visit us. The personal interest he might have in the visit we for a while forgot; and from our solicitude to hear news he was invited to our houses and treated at our tables. If he afterwards found himself neglected, it was not to be wondered at; his intelligence was exhausted, and he had sunk into the mere tradesman.

To help ease our minds from thinking about things that annoy everyone, on the 23rd, the Ceres supply ship arrived from England. It was impossible for a ship to reach this far corner of the king's territories, whether from England or anywhere else, without bringing fresh ideas and new kinds of entertainment. Having a newcomer among us was always significant; we felt it was necessary to show respect to someone who had come all the way from the civilized world to see us. We temporarily forgot about his personal reasons for visiting, and out of our eagerness to hear news, we welcomed him into our homes and shared our meals with him. If he later felt left out, it wasn’t surprising; he had run out of interesting information and had become just another seller.

This ship, whose master's name was Hedley, had on board stores and provisions for the settlement. She sailed from England on the 5th of August last; took the route of most other ships which had preceded her, anchoring at Rio de Janeiro on the 18th of October, whence she sailed on the 22nd of the same month, and made Van Dieman's Land on the 9th instant, her passage occupying something more than five months.

This ship, captained by a man named Hedley, was carrying supplies and provisions for the settlement. She left England on August 5th; followed the usual route taken by earlier ships, docking in Rio de Janeiro on October 18th, from where she departed on the 22nd of that month and reached Van Diemen's Land on the 9th of this month, making the journey last just over five months.

We found that a ship (the Marquis Cornwallis) had sailed for Cork to take in her convicts three weeks before the Ceres left England; and that it was reported at Rio de Janeiro, that the Cape of Good Hope was in our possession.

We discovered that a ship (the Marquis Cornwallis) had set sail for Cork to pick up its convicts three weeks before the Ceres departed from England; and it was reported in Rio de Janeiro that the Cape of Good Hope was under our control.

The Ceres, touching at the island of Amsterdam in her way hither, took off four men, two French and two English, who had lived there three years, having been left from a brig (the Emilia), which was taken on to China by the Lion man of war. One of the Frenchmen, M. Perron, apparently deserved a better kind of society than his companions supplied. He had kept an accurate and neatly-written journal of his proceedings, with some well-drawn views of the spot to which he was so long confined. It appeared that they had, in the hope of their own or some other vessel arriving to take them off, collected and cured several thousands of seal-skins, which, however, they were compelled to abandon. M. Perron had subsisted for the last eighteen months on the flesh of seals.

The Ceres, stopping at Amsterdam Island on its way here, picked up four men, two French and two English, who had lived there for three years after being left behind by a brig (the Emilia), which was taken to China by the Lion, a warship. One of the Frenchmen, M. Perron, clearly deserved better company than his companions provided. He kept a detailed and neatly-written journal of his experiences, along with some nicely drawn sketches of the place where he was stuck for so long. It turned out they had collected and cured several thousand seal skins in hopes that either they or some other ship would come to rescue them, but they were forced to leave them behind. M. Perron had survived for the last eighteen months on seal meat.

On the day following this arrival the signal was again made; and before noon the snow Experiment, commanded by Mr. Edward McClellan, who was here in the same vessel in the year before last, from Bengal, and the ship Otter, Mr. Ebenezer Dorr master, from Boston in North America, anchored in the cove.

On the day after this arrival, the signal was made again; and before noon, the snow Experiment, commanded by Mr. Edward McClellan, who was here on the same vessel the year before last from Bengal, and the ship Otter, with Mr. Ebenezer Dorr as captain, from Boston in North America, anchored in the cove.

Mr. McClellan had on board a large investment of India goods, muslins, calicoes, chintzes, soap, sugar, spirits, and a variety of small articles, apparently the sweepings of a Bengal bazar; the sale of which investment he expected would produce ten or twelve thousand pounds.

Mr. McClellan had a significant stock of Indian goods on board, including muslins, calicoes, chintzes, soap, sugar, spirits, and a variety of miscellaneous items, seemingly the leftover treasures of a Bengal market; he anticipated that selling this inventory would generate ten to twelve thousand pounds.

The American, either finding the market overstocked, or having had some other motive for touching here, declared he had nothing for sale; but that he could, as a favour, spare two hogsheads of Jamaica rum, three pipes of Madeira, sixty-eight quarter casks of Lisbon wine, four chests and a half of Bohea tea, and two hogsheads of molasses. He had touched at the late residence of M. Perron, the island of Amsterdam, and brought off as many of the sealskins (his vessel being bound to China after visiting the north-west coast of America) as he could take on board. He had been five months and three days from Boston, touching no where but at the abovementioned island.

The American, either finding the market too full or having some other reason for stopping here, said he had nothing for sale; but that he could, as a favor, offer two hogsheads of Jamaican rum, three pipes of Madeira, sixty-eight quarter casks of Lisbon wine, four and a half chests of Bohea tea, and two hogsheads of molasses. He had stopped at the recent home of M. Perron on the island of Amsterdam and took on board as many sealskins as he could carry (his ship was headed to China after visiting the northwest coast of America). He had been away from Boston for five months and three days, only stopping at the island mentioned above.

We had the satisfaction of hearing, through Mr. McClellan, from the master of the Britannia. He had, according to his instructions, proceeded to Batavia, where judging from his own observation, and by what he heard, that it was unsafe to make any stay, he after four or five days left the port, and by that means fortunately escaped being detained, which, from information that he afterwards received at Bengal, he found would have happened to him. He was to leave Calcutta about the end of December.

We were pleased to hear from Mr. McClellan about the captain of the Britannia. Following his instructions, he went to Batavia, and based on his own observations and what he heard, he decided it was unsafe to stay. After four or five days, he left the port, which fortunately allowed him to avoid being held up, something he later learned would have occurred from information he received in Bengal. He was set to leave Calcutta around the end of December.

The report of the Cape of Good Hope being in our possession had reached that place before the Experiment sailed. On this subject we were rather anxious, as the armed ships which had lately arrived, the Reliance and Supply, were intended to proceed to that port as soon as the season would admit, for cattle for the colony.

The news that we had taken possession of the Cape of Good Hope had reached there before the Experiment set sail. We were somewhat worried about this, as the armed ships that had recently arrived, the Reliance and Supply, were meant to head to that port as soon as the season allowed, to gather cattle for the colony.

Bennillong's influence over his countrymen not extending to the natives at the river, we this month again heard of their violence. They attacked a man who had been allowed to ply with a passage-boat between the port of Sydney and the river, and wounded him, (it was feared mortally,) as he was going with his companion to the settlement; and they were beginning again to annoy the settlers there.

Bennillong's influence over his fellow countrymen didn't reach the natives at the river, and this month we heard again about their violence. They attacked a man who had been permitted to operate a passage boat between the port of Sydney and the river, wounding him (it was feared fatally) as he was heading with his companion to the settlement; and they were starting to bother the settlers there once more.

Notwithstanding the reward that had been offered for apprehending black Caesar, he remained at large, and scarcely a morning arrived without a complaint being made to the magistrates of a loss of property supposed to have been occasioned by this man. In fact, every theft that was committed was ascribed to him; a cask of pork was stolen from the millhouse, the upper part of which was accessible, and, the sentinels who had the charge of that building being tried and acquitted, the theft was fixed upon Caesar, or some of the vagabonds who were in the woods, the number of whom at this time amounted to six or eight.

Despite the reward that had been offered for catching Black Caesar, he was still on the run, and hardly a morning went by without a complaint being filed with the magistrates about stolen property believed to be taken by him. In fact, every theft that happened was blamed on him; a cask of pork was stolen from the millhouse, which was accessible from the top, and after the sentinels responsible for that building were tried and cleared, the theft was pinned on Caesar or some of the drifters lurking in the woods, who numbered around six or eight at that time.

The harvest was all well got in during this month. At Sydney, the labouring hands were employed in unloading the store-ship; for which purpose three men from each farm having ten were ordered in to public work.

The harvest was all collected this month. In Sydney, the workers were busy unloading the supply ship; for this task, three men from each of the ten farms were assigned to public work.

On the 21st of this month his Majesty's ship the Reliance sailed for Norfolk Island. In her went Mr. Hibbins, the judge-advocate of that settlement who arrived from England in the Sovereign; and a captain of the New South Wales corps, to take the command of the troops there.

On the 21st of this month, His Majesty's ship the Reliance set sail for Norfolk Island. On board were Mr. Hibbins, the judge-advocate of that settlement who had arrived from England on the Sovereign; and a captain from the New South Wales corps, who was going to take command of the troops there.

On the 7th the surgeon's mate of the Supply died of a dysenteric complaint. He had attended Mr. Barrow to his grave, who died in December last. On the evening of the 23rd a soldier of the name of Eades, having gone over to the north shore to collect thatch to cover a hut which he had built for the comfort of his family, fell from a rock and was drowned. He left a widow and five small children, mostly females, to lament his loss. He was a quiet man and a good soldier.

On the 7th, the surgeon's assistant on the Supply died from dysentery. He had buried Mr. Barrow, who passed away last December. On the evening of the 23rd, a soldier named Eades went to the north shore to gather thatch for a hut he had built for his family's comfort, but he fell from a rock and drowned. He left behind a widow and five young children, mostly daughters, to mourn him. He was a quiet man and a good soldier.

February.] The players, with a politic generosity, on the 4th of this month performed the play of The Fair Penitent with a farce, for the benefit of the widow Eades and her family. The house was full, and it was said that she got upwards of twelve pounds by the night.

February.] The actors, showing great generosity, on the 4th of this month staged the play The Fair Penitent along with a farce, to raise money for the widow Eades and her family. The house was packed, and it was reported that she made over twelve pounds that night.

A circumstance of a disagreeable nature occurred in the beginning of this month. John Baughan*, the master carpenter at this place, being at work in the shed allotted for the carpenters in one of the mill-houses, overheard himself grossly abused by the sentinel who was planted there, and who for that purpose had quitted his post, and placed himself within hearing of Baughan. This sentinel had formerly been a convict, and, while working as such under Baughan in the line of his business, thought himself in some circumstance or other ill-treated by him, for which he 'owed him a grudge', and took this way to satisfy his resentment. Baughan, a man of a sullen and vindictive disposition, perceiving that the sentinel was without his arms, took them, unobserved by him, from the post where he had left them, and delivered them to the sergeant of the guard.

A troubling situation happened at the start of this month. John Baughan, the head carpenter here, was working in the shed designated for carpenters in one of the mill buildings when he overheard the guard stationed there verbally attacking him. This guard had left his post to get close enough to Baughan to do so. He had previously been a convict and, while working under Baughan in his line of work, felt he was mistreated by him for some reason, which made him hold a grudge. Wanting to get back at Baughan, he chose this way to express his anger. Baughan, who had a moody and vengeful personality, noticed that the guard was unarmed, so he quietly took the weapons from where the guard had left them and handed them over to the sergeant of the guard.

[* John Baughan, alias Buffin, alias Bingham. He had served the term of his transportation, and had for a considerable time been employed in the direction of the carpenters and sawyers at this place.]

[* John Baughan, also known as Buffin or Bingham. He had completed his sentence of transportation and had been working for quite some time overseeing the carpenters and sawyers at this location.]

The sentinel being confined, the company to which he belonged, indignant at the injury done to their comrade, and too much irritated either to act with prudence, or to consider the conduct they determined to pursue, repaired the following morning to Baughan's house (a neat little cottage which he had built below the hospital), where in a few minutes they almost demolished his house, out-houses, and furniture, and Baughan himself suffered much personal outrage.

The sentinel was locked up, and the group he was part of, furious about the harm done to their friend and too angry to think clearly or act wisely, went to Baughan's house the next morning (a charming little cottage he had built near the hospital). In just a few minutes, they nearly destroyed his house, outbuildings, and furniture, and Baughan himself endured a lot of personal abuse.

They were so sudden in the execution of this business, that the mischief was done before any steps could be taken either by the civil or military power to prevent it.

They acted so quickly in carrying out this plan that the damage was done before anyone from the police or military could intervene to stop it.

Baughan, after some days had elapsed, swearing positively to the persons of four of the principals in this transaction, a warrant was made out to apprehend them; but before it could be executed, the soldiers expressing themselves convinced of the great impropriety of their conduct, and offering to indemnify the sufferer for the damage they had done him, who also personally petitioned the governor in their behalf, the warrant was withdrawn.

Baughan, after a few days had passed, confidently told four of the main people involved in this situation that a warrant was issued to arrest them. However, before it could be carried out, the soldiers admitted that their behavior was very inappropriate and offered to compensate the victim for the harm they caused him. The victim also personally asked the governor to support the soldiers, which led to the warrant being canceled.

It was observed, that the most active of the soldiers in this affair had formerly been convicts, who, not having changed their principles with their condition, thus became the means of disgracing their fellow-soldiers. The corps certainly was not much improved by the introduction of people of this description among them. It might well have been supposed, that being taken as good characters from the class of prisoners, they would have felt themselves above mixing with any of them afterwards; but it happened otherwise; they had nothing in them of that pride which is termed l'esprit du corps; but at times mixed with the convicts familiarly as former cornpanions; yet when they chose to quarrel with, or complain of them, they meanly asserted their superiority as soldiers.

It was noticed that the most active soldiers in this situation were former convicts who hadn’t changed their mindset despite their new status, which led to embarrassing their fellow soldiers. The unit clearly didn’t benefit from having people like this among them. One could assume that after being picked as good examples from the group of prisoners, they would feel above associating with them later; however, that wasn’t the case. They lacked the pride known as l'esprit du corps; instead, they occasionally mingled casually with the convicts as if they were old friends. Yet, when they decided to argue or complain about them, they shamefully claimed superiority as soldiers.

This intercourse had been strongly prohibited by their officers; but living (as once before mentioned) in huts by themselves, it was carried on without their knowledge. Most of them were now, however, ordered into the barracks; but to give this regulation the full effect, a high brick wall, or an inclosure of strong paling, round the barracks, was requisite; the latter of these securities would have been put up some time before, had there not been a want of the labouring hands necessary to prepare and collect the materials.

This interaction had been strictly banned by their officers; however, living (as mentioned before) in their own huts, it happened without their awareness. Most of them were now ordered into the barracks; but to ensure this rule was effective, a tall brick wall or a sturdy fence around the barracks was needed; the latter option would have been built some time ago if there hadn't been a shortage of workers to gather and prepare the materials.

On the 11th of this month the ship Marquis Cornwallis anchored in the cove from Ireland, with two hundred and thirty-three male and female convicts of that country. We understood from her commander, Mr. Michael Hogan, that a conspiracy had been formed to take the ship from him; but, the circumstances of it being happily disclosed in time, he was enabled to prevent it, and having sufficient evidence of the existence of the conspiracy, he caused the principal part of those concerned to be severely punished, first taking the opinions of all the free people who were on board. A military guard, consisting of two subalterns and a proportionate number of privates of the New South Wales corps (principally drafts from other regiments), was embarked in this ship. The prisoners were in general healthy; but some of those who had been punished were not quite recovered, and on landing were sent to the hospital. It appeared that the men were for the most part of the description of people termed Defenders, desperate, and ripe for any scheme from which danger and destruction were likely to ensue. The women were of the same complexion; and their ingenuity and cruelty were displayed in the part they were to take in the purposed insurrection, which was the preparing of pulverised glass to mix with the flour of which the seamen were to make their puddings. What an importation!

On the 11th of this month, the ship Marquis Cornwallis arrived in the cove from Ireland, carrying two hundred and thirty-three male and female convicts from that country. We learned from her captain, Mr. Michael Hogan, that there had been a plot to seize the ship from him; however, since the details were revealed in time, he was able to stop it. He gathered enough evidence about the conspiracy and had the main individuals involved severely punished, after consulting all the free people on board. A military guard made up of two junior officers and a corresponding number of privates from the New South Wales corps (mostly drafts from other regiments) was put on this ship. The prisoners were generally healthy, but some of those who had been punished were not fully recovered and were sent to the hospital upon landing. It appeared that most of the men belonged to a group known as Defenders, who were desperate and ready for any dangerous schemes. The women shared the same traits, and their cleverness and cruelty showed in their role in the planned uprising, which involved preparing ground glass to mix with the flour for the seamen’s puddings. What an importation!

A few months provisions for these people, and the remainder* of the mooring chains intended for his Majesty's ships the Reliance and the Supply, together with a patent under the great seal for assembling criminal courts at Norfolk Island, arrived in this ship. She sailed from Cork on the 9th of August last, and touched at the island of St. Helena and the Cape of Good Hope, which latter place, we had the satisfaction of hearing, had surrendered to his Majesty's arms, and was in our possession. General Craig, the commander in chief on shore, and Commodore Blankett, each sent an official communication of this important circumstance to Governor Hunter, and stated their desire to assist in any circumstance that might be of service to the settlement, when the season should offer for sending the ships under his orders to the Cape for supplies.

A few months' worth of supplies for these people, along with the remaining mooring chains meant for His Majesty's ships, the Reliance and the Supply, arrived on this ship, as did a patent under the great seal for setting up criminal courts at Norfolk Island. The ship left Cork on August 9th and made stops at St. Helena and the Cape of Good Hope, which we were pleased to learn had surrendered to His Majesty and was under our control. General Craig, the commander in chief on land, and Commodore Blankett each sent an official message about this important development to Governor Hunter, expressing their willingness to help with anything that might benefit the settlement when the time was right to send the ships under his command to the Cape for supplies.

[* Some part had arrived in the Reliance and Supply.]

[* Some parts arrived on the Reliance and Supply.]

With infinite regret we heard of the death of Colonel Gordon, whose attentions to this settlement, when opportunities presented themselves, can never be forgotten. He was a favoured son of science, and liberally extended the advantages which that science gave him wherever he thought they could promote the welfare of his fellow-creatures.

With deep sadness, we learned about the death of Colonel Gordon, whose support for this community, whenever he had the chance, will always be remembered. He was a beloved advocate of science and generously shared the benefits that science provided him wherever he believed they could help improve the lives of others.

On Monday the 15th a criminal court was held for the trial of two prisoners, William Britton a soldier, and John Reid a convict, for a burglary in the house of the Rev. Mr. Johnson, committed in the night of Sunday the 7th of this month. The evidence, though strong, was not sufficient to convict them, and they were acquitted. While this court was sitting, however, information was received, that black Caesar had that morning been shot by one Wimbow. This man and another, allured by the reward, had been for some days in quest of him. Finding his haunt, they concealed themselves all night at the edge of a brush which they perceived him enter at dusk. In the morning he came out, when, looking round him and seeing his danger, he presented his musket; but before he could pull the trigger Wimbow fired and shot him. He was taken to the hut of Rose, a settler at Liberty Plains, where he died in a few hours. Thus ended a man, who certainly, during his life, could never have been estimated at more than one remove above the brute, and who had given more trouble than any other convict in the settlement.

On Monday the 15th, a criminal court was held to try two prisoners, William Britton, a soldier, and John Reid, a convict, for a burglary at the home of Rev. Mr. Johnson, which took place on the night of Sunday the 7th of this month. The evidence, while strong, was not enough to convict them, and they were acquitted. While this court was in session, news came that black Caesar had been shot that morning by a man named Wimbow. He and another person, enticed by the reward, had been searching for him for several days. After finding his hideout, they hid all night at the edge of a thicket that they saw him enter at dusk. In the morning, he came out, and when he realized he was in danger, he aimed his musket at them, but before he could fire, Wimbow shot him. He was taken to the hut of Rose, a settler at Liberty Plains, where he died within a few hours. Thus ended the life of a man who, during his life, could only be considered slightly above a beast and who had caused more trouble than any other convict in the settlement.

On the morning of the 18th the Otter sailed for the north-west coast of America. In her went Mr. Thomas Muir (one of the persons sent out in the Surprise for sedition) and several other convicts whose sentences of transportation were not expired. Mr. Muir conceived that in withdrawing (though clandestinely) from this country, he was only asserting his freedom; and meant, if he should arrive in safety, to enjoy what he deemed himself to have regained of it in America, until the time should come when he might return to his own country with credit and comfort. He purposed practising at the American bar as an advocate; a point of information which he left behind him in a letter. In this country he chiefly passed his time in literary ease and retirement, living out of the town at a little spot of ground which he had purchased for the purpose of seclusion.

On the morning of the 18th, the Otter set sail for the northwest coast of America. On board were Mr. Thomas Muir (one of the people sent out in the Surprise for seditious activities) and several other convicts whose sentences of transportation had not yet expired. Mr. Muir believed that by secretly leaving this country, he was simply claiming his freedom; and he intended, if he reached safety, to enjoy what he considered to be his regained freedom in America until the time came for him to return to his own country with dignity and peace. He planned to practice law as an advocate in America, a detail he shared in a letter he left behind. In this country, he mainly spent his time in literary leisure and solitude, living outside the city on a small plot of land that he had bought for the sake of privacy.

A few days after the departure of this ship, the Abigail, another American, arrived. As several prisoners had found a conveyance from this place in the Otter, the governor directed the Abigail to be anchored in Neutral Bay (a bay on the north shore, a little below Rock Island), where he imagined the communication would not be so easy as the ships of that nation had found it in Sydney Cove. Her master, Christopher Thornton, gave out that he was bound to Manilla and Canton, having on board a cargo for those places. For part of that cargo, however, he met with purchasers at this place, notwithstanding the glut of articles which the late frequent arrivals must have thrown in. He expected to have found here a snow, named the Susan, which he knew had sailed from Rhode Island with a cargo expressly laid in for this market. He came direct from that port without touching any where.

A few days after the departure of the ship Abigail, another American ship arrived. Since several prisoners had managed to leave this place on the Otter, the governor ordered the Abigail to anchor in Neutral Bay (a bay on the north shore, just below Rock Island), thinking that communication would be more difficult than what the ships from that country experienced in Sydney Cove. Her captain, Christopher Thornton, claimed he was on his way to Manila and Canton, carrying cargo for those destinations. However, for part of that cargo, he found buyers here, despite the surplus of goods that the recent frequent arrivals must have caused. He expected to find a ship, named the Susan, which he knew had departed from Rhode Island with a cargo specifically meant for this market. He came straight from that port without stopping anywhere.

The frequent attacks and depredations to which the settlers situated on the banks of the Hawkesbury, and other places, were exposed from the natives, called upon them, for the protection of their families, and the preservation of their crops, mutually to afford each other their assistance upon every occasion of alarm, by assembling without delay whenever any numerous bodies of natives were reported to be lurking about their grounds; but they seldom or never showed the smallest disposition to assist each other. Indolent and improvident even for their own safety and interest, they in general neglected the means by which either could be secured. This disposition being soon manifested to the governor, he thought it necessary to issue a public order, stating his expectations and directions, that all the people residing in the different districts of the settlemerits, whether the alarm was on their own farms, or on the farm of any other person, should upon such occasions immediately render to each other such assistance as each man if attacked would himself wish to receive; and he assured them, that if it should be hereafter proved, that any settlers or other persons withdrew or kept back their assistance from those who might be threatened, or who might be in danger of being attacked, they would be proceeded against as persons disobeying the rules and orders of the settlement. Such as had fire-arms were also positively enjoined not wantonly to fire at, or take the lives of any of the natives, as such an act would be considered a deliberate murder, and subject the offender to such punishment as (if proved) the law might direct to be inflicted. It had been intimated to the governor, that two white men (Wilson and Knight) had been frequently seen with the natives in their excursions, and were supposed to direct and assist in those acts of hostility by which the settlers had lately suffered. He therefore recommended to every one who knew or had heard of these people, and particularly to the settlers who were so much annoyed by them, to use every means in their power to secure them, that they might be so disposed of as to prevent their being dangerous or troublesome in future. The settlers were at the same time strictly prohibited from giving any encouragement to the natives to lurk about their farms; as there could not be a doubt, that if they had never met with the shelter which some had afforded them, they would not at this time have furnished so much cause to complaint.

The frequent attacks and crimes that the settlers near the Hawkesbury and other areas faced from the natives forced them to protect their families and crops. They needed to help each other whenever there was an alarm, quickly gathering when they heard about native groups near their land. However, they rarely showed any willingness to support one another. They were lazy and unconcerned about their own safety, generally ignoring the ways to protect themselves. This attitude soon caught the attention of the governor, who felt it necessary to issue a public order. He expressed his expectations and instructions that all residents in the various districts should provide assistance to one another, whether the threat was on their own farms or someone else's. He assured them that if anyone was found withdrawing their help from those in danger, they would face consequences for disobeying the settlement's rules. Those with firearms were explicitly told not to shoot at or kill any natives, as such actions would be seen as murder and could lead to legal punishment. The governor had been informed that two white men (Wilson and Knight) were often seen with the natives and were believed to help incite the hostility that had troubled the settlers. He urged everyone, especially the settlers affected by them, to take any measures necessary to capture these individuals to prevent them from being a danger in the future. At the same time, settlers were strictly forbidden from encouraging the natives to hang around their farms, as it was clear that if these natives hadn’t received shelter from some settlers, they wouldn’t have been such a problem now.

Those natives who lived with the settlers had tasted the sweets of a different mode of living, and, willing that their friends and companions should partake, either stole from those with whom they were living, or communicated from time to time such favourable opportunities as offered of stealing from other settlers what they themselves were pleased with.

Those natives who lived with the settlers had experienced the benefits of a different way of life, and, wanting their friends and companions to enjoy it too, either stole from those they lived with or occasionally shared chances to steal from other settlers what they liked.

At this time several persons who had served their term of transportation were applying for permission to provide for themselves. Of this description were Wilson and Knight; but they preferred a vagrant life with the natives; and the consideration that if taken they would be dealt with in a manner that would prevent their getting among them again, now led them on to every kind of mischief. They demonstrated to the natives of how little use a musket was when once discharged, and this effectually removed that terror of our fire-arms with which it had been our constant endeavour to inspire them.

At this time, several people who had served their time in transportation were requesting permission to support themselves. Among them were Wilson and Knight; however, they chose a wandering lifestyle with the locals. The fact that if they were caught they would be treated in a way that would stop them from joining the locals again led them to engage in all sorts of trouble. They showed the locals how useless a musket was once it had been fired, which effectively took away the fear of our firearms that we had always tried to instill in them.

Several articles having been brought for sale in the Marquis Cornwallis, a shop was opened on shore. As money, or orders on or by any of the responsible officers* of the colony, were taken at this shop for goods, an opportunity was afforded to some knowing ones among the prisoners to play off, not only base money, as counterfeit Spanish dollars and rupees, but forged notes or orders. One forged note for ten pound ten shillings, bearing the commissary's name, was passed at the shop, but fortunately discovered before the recollection of the persons who offered it was effaced, though not in time to recover the property. The whole party was apprehended, and committed for trial.

Several articles were put up for sale in the Marquis Cornwallis, leading to the opening of a shop on shore. Since money or orders from any of the responsible officers of the colony were accepted at this shop for goods, some savvy prisoners took the chance to use not just fake money, like counterfeit Spanish dollars and rupees, but also forged notes or orders. One forged note for ten pounds ten shillings, with the commissary's name on it, was used at the shop, but fortunately, it was discovered before the memory of the people who presented it faded, although it was too late to recover the stolen property. The entire group was arrested and taken into custody for trial.

[* Such as the commissary, paymaster of the corps, and officers who paid companies.]

[* Like the commissary, paymaster of the corps, and officers who paid the companies.]

Discharging the storeships formed the principal labour of this month; which being completed, the assistants required from the farms to unload them were returned.

Discharging the supply ships was the main task for this month; once that was done, the workers brought in from the farms to help unload them were sent back.

The bricklayers' gang were employed in erecting a small hut for the accommodation of an officer within the paling of the guardhouse at Sydney, the main guard being now commanded by a subaltern officer.

The bricklayers' crew was working on building a small hut to house an officer inside the fence of the guardhouse at Sydney, with the main guard currently led by a junior officer.

Mr. Henry Brewer, the provost-marshal of the territory, worn out with age and infirmities, being incapable of the duties of his office, which now required a very active and a much younger man to execute, and at this time very much indisposed, the governor appointed to that situation Mr. Thomas Smyth, then acting as a storekeeper at this place, until Mr. Brewer should be able to return to the duties of it.

Mr. Henry Brewer, the provost-marshal of the territory, tired and unwell from age and health issues, was unable to perform the duties of his office, which needed a much younger and more active person. Since he was currently very unwell, the governor appointed Mr. Thomas Smyth, who was working as a storekeeper here, to take on the role until Mr. Brewer could return to his responsibilities.

During one or two hot days in this month the shrubs and brushwood about the west point of the cove caught fire, and burnt within a few yards of the magazine. On its being extinguished, the powder was removed for a few days on board the Supply, until some security against any future accident of that kind could be thrown up round the building.

During one or two hot days this month, the bushes and brush near the west point of the cove caught fire, burning just a few yards from the magazine. After it was put out, the powder was moved aboard the Supply for a few days until some precautions could be taken around the building to prevent any future incidents like that.

March.] Late in the evening of the 5th of March his Majesty's ship the Reliance returned from Norfolk Island. In her came Mr. D'Arcy Wentworth. This person arrived at New South Wales in the Neptune transport, and went immediately to Norfolk Island, where he was employed, first as a superintendant of convicts, and afterwards as an assistant to the surgeon at the hospital there, having been bred to that profession.

March.] Late in the evening of March 5th, His Majesty's ship the Reliance returned from Norfolk Island. On board was Mr. D'Arcy Wentworth. He arrived in New South Wales on the Neptune transport and went straight to Norfolk Island, where he first worked as a superintendent of convicts and later as an assistant to the hospital surgeon, having been trained in that profession.

By letters received from Mr. Bampton, who sailed from his place in the Endeavour in the month of September last, we now heard, that on his reaching Dusky Bay in New Zealand his ship unfortunately proved so leaky, that with the advice and consent of his officers and people she was run on shore and scuttled. By good fortune the vessel which had been built by the carpenter of the Britannia (when left there with Mr. John Leith the mate, and others, in that ship's first voyage hence to the Cape of Good Hope) being found in the same state as she had been left by them, they completed and launched her, according to a previous agreement between the two commanders. It may be remembered, that in addition to the large number of persons which Mr. Bampton had permission to ship at this port, nearly as many more found means to secrete themselves on board his ship and the Fancy. For these, as well as his officers and ship's company, he had now to provide a passage from the truly desolate shores of New Zealand. He accordingly, after fitting as a schooner the vessel which he had launched, and naming her the Providence, sailed with her and the Fancy for Norfolk Island, having on board as many of the officers and people who reached Dusky Bay with him as they could contain, leaving the remainder to proceed in a vessel which one Hatherleigh (formerly a carpenter's mate of the Sirius, who happened to be with him) undertook to construct out of the Endeavour's long-boat. The Fancy and Providence arrived safe at Norfolk Island, whence they sailed for China on the 31st day of January last.

From letters received from Mr. Bampton, who set sail from his location on the Endeavour last September, we learned that upon arriving at Dusky Bay in New Zealand, his ship unfortunately turned out to be very leaky. So, with the advice and agreement of his officers and crew, they ran her ashore and scuttled her. Fortunately, they discovered a vessel that had been built by the carpenter of the Britannia (when she was left there with Mr. John Leith, the mate, and others, during that ship's first trip to the Cape of Good Hope) and found her still in the same condition they had left her in. They completed and launched her as per an earlier agreement between the two commanders. It’s worth noting that, in addition to the large number of people Mr. Bampton was allowed to take on from this port, nearly as many more managed to hide on board his ship and the Fancy. For these individuals, along with his officers and crew, he now needed to arrange a way to get back from the truly desolate shores of New Zealand. Therefore, after fitting the launched vessel as a schooner and naming her the Providence, he set sail with her and the Fancy for Norfolk Island, carrying as many of the officers and crew who arrived at Dusky Bay with him as could fit, while leaving the rest to go in a vessel that a man named Hatherleigh (who used to be a carpenter's mate on the Sirius and happened to be with him) promised to build out of the Endeavour's long-boat. The Fancy and Providence safely reached Norfolk Island, from where they departed for China on January 31st.

This unlucky termination of the voyage of the Endeavour brought to our recollection the difficulties and dangers which Mr. Bampton met with in the Shah Hormuzear, when, on his return to India from this country, he attempted to ascertain a passage for future navigators between New Holland and New Guinea.

This unfortunate end to the journey of the Endeavour reminded us of the challenges and risks that Mr. Bampton faced on the Shah Hormuzear when he tried to find a route for future navigators between New Holland and New Guinea while returning to India from this country.

In the course of this narrative, the different reports received respecting the fate of the boat which landed on Tate Island have been stated. In a Calcutta newspaper, brought here by Mr. McClellan in the Experiment, we now found a printed account of the whole of that transaction, which filled up that chasm in the story which the parties themselves alone could supply.

In this story, we've shared various reports about what happened to the boat that landed on Tate Island. A Calcutta newspaper, brought here by Mr. McClellan on the Experiment, now gives us a detailed account of the entire event, filling in the gaps that only those involved could have explained.

By referring to the account given in the month of July 1794, as communicated by Mr. Dell, it will appear, that the ship, having been driven to leeward of the island after the boat left her, was three days before she could work up to it. When Mr. Dell went on shore to search for Captain Hill and his companions, he could only, at his return, produce, what he thought incontestable proofs of their having been murdered; such as their greatcoats, a lanthorn, tomahawk, etc. and three hands, one of which, from a certain mark, was supposed to have belonged to Mr. Carter. Of the boat, after the most diligent search round the island, he could find no trace. By the account now published, and which bore every mark of authenticity, it appeared, that when the boat, in which these unfortunate gentlemen were, had reached the island (on the 3rd of July 1793), the natives received them very kindly, and conducted them to a convenient place for landing. After distributing some presents among them, with which they appeared very much satisfied, it was proposed that Mr. Carter, Shaw (the mate of the Chesterfield), and Ascott, should proceed to the top of a high point of land which they had noticed, and that Captain Hill should stay by the boat, with her crew, consisting of four seamen belonging to the Chesterfield.

By referring to the account given in July 1794, as shared by Mr. Dell, it’s clear that the ship, having been blown off course from the island after the boat left, took three days to get back to it. When Mr. Dell went ashore to look for Captain Hill and his companions, he could only return with what he believed were undeniable proofs of their murder, such as their overcoats, a lantern, a tomahawk, etc., and three hands, one of which, due to a specific mark, was thought to belong to Mr. Carter. After searching thoroughly around the island, he found no sign of the boat. According to the account now published, which seemed very authentic, when the boat carrying these unfortunate gentlemen reached the island (on July 3, 1793), the natives welcomed them warmly and showed them a suitable place to land. After giving some gifts to the natives, which made them very happy, it was suggested that Mr. Carter, Shaw (the mate of the Chesterfield), and Ascott should climb to the top of a high point of land they had noticed, while Captain Hill would remain with the boat and the crew, which consisted of four sailors from the Chesterfield.

The inland party, taking the precaution to arm, and provide themselves with a necessary quantity of ammunition, set off. Nothing unfriendly occurred during their walk, though several little circumstances happened, which induced Ascott to suspect that the natives had some design on them; an idea, however, which was scouted by his companions.

The inland group, making sure to arm themselves and take enough ammunition, set out. Nothing hostile happened during their journey, although a few little things occurred that made Ascott suspect the locals might have a plan against them; however, his friends dismissed the idea.

On their return from the hill, hostile designs became apparent, and the natives seemed to be deterred from murdering them merely by the activity of Ascott, who, by presenting his musket occasionally, kept them off; but, notwithstanding his activity and vigilance, the natives at length made their attack. They began by attempting to take Ascott's musket from him, finding he was the most likely to annoy them; directly after which, Mr. Carter, who was the foremost of the party, was heard to exclaim, 'My God, my God, they have murdered me.' Ascott, who still retained his musket, immediately fired, on which the natives left them and fled into the bushes. Ascott now had time to look about him, and saw what he justly deemed a horrid spectacle, Mr. Carter lying bleeding on the ground, and Mr. Shaw with a large wound in his throat under the left jaw. They were both however able to rise, and proceed down the hill to the boat. On their arrival at the beach they called to their companions to fire; but, to their extreme horror, they perceived Captain Hill and one of the seamen lying dead on the sand, cut and mangled in a most barbarous manner. Two others of the seamen they saw floating on the water, with their throats cut from ear to ear. The fourth sailor they found dead in the boat, mangled in the same shocking manner. With much difficulty these unhappy people got into their boat, and, cutting her grapnel, pulled off from this treacherous shore. While this was performing, they clearly saw the natives, whom in their account they term voracious cannibals, dragging the bodies of Captain Hill and the seamen from the beach toward some large fires, which they supposed were prepared for the occasion, yelling and howling at the same time most dismally.

On their way back from the hill, hostile intentions became clear, and the locals seemed to be held back from killing them only by Ascott's efforts, as he occasionally displayed his musket to keep them at bay. However, despite his quick actions and watchfulness, the locals eventually launched their attack. They started by trying to wrest Ascott's musket away from him, knowing he was their main threat. Shortly after, Mr. Carter, who was leading the group, was heard shouting, "My God, my God, they have murdered me." Ascott, still holding onto his musket, immediately fired, causing the locals to retreat into the bushes. Ascott then took a moment to assess the scene, and what he saw was horrific: Mr. Carter was lying on the ground, bleeding, and Mr. Shaw had a large wound in his throat under his left jaw. Fortunately, both were able to get up and make their way down the hill to the boat. When they reached the beach, they shouted for their companions to open fire; but to their utter shock, they saw Captain Hill and one of the sailors lying dead on the sand, brutally cut and mangled. They also spotted two other sailors floating in the water, their throats slashed from ear to ear. The fourth sailor was found dead in the boat, similarly mutilated. With great difficulty, these unfortunate men climbed into their boat, cut the grapnel, and rowed away from that treacherous shore. As they did this, they clearly saw the locals, whom they described as ravenous cannibals, dragging the bodies of Captain Hill and the sailors from the beach toward some large fires, which they assumed were set for this purpose, all the while yelling and howling in a mournful way.

These wretched survivors of their companions having seen, from the top of the hill whither their ill-fated curiosity had led them, a large sand-bank not far from the island, determined to run under the lee of it, as they very reasonably hoped that boats would the next morning be sent after them from the ship. They experienced very little rest or ease that night, and when daylight appeared found they had drifted nearly out of sight of the island, and to leeward of the sand-bank.

These unfortunate survivors, having seen from the top of the hill where their ill-fated curiosity had led them, a large sandbank not far from the island, decided to move in its shelter, as they reasonably hoped that boats would be sent after them from the ship the following morning. They got very little rest that night, and when daylight arrived, they discovered they had drifted almost out of sight of the island and to the leeward side of the sandbank.

Deeming it in vain to attempt reaching the bank, after examining what was left in the boat, (a few of the trifles which they had put into her to buy the friendship of the natives, and Ascott's greatcoat, but neither a compass nor a morsel of provisions,) they determined, by the advice of Shaw, who of these three miserable people was the only one that understood any thing of navigation, to run direct for Timor, for which place the wind was then happily fair. To the westward, therefore, they directed their course, trusting (as the printed account stated) to that Providence which had delivered them from the cannibals at Tate Island.*

Seeing it was pointless to try to reach the bank after checking what was left in the boat—just a few trinkets they had brought to win the friendship of the locals and Ascott's greatcoat, with no compass or food—they decided, based on Shaw's advice, the only one of the three who knew anything about navigation, to head straight for Timor, for which the wind was fortunately favorable. Therefore, they set their course to the west, trusting (as the printed account noted) in the Providence that had saved them from the cannibals at Tate Island.*

[* The narrative of this most horrible affair, as printed at Calcutta, was reprinted entire in the European Magazine for May and June 1797.]

[* The story of this terrible incident, as published in Calcutta, was fully reprinted in the European Magazine for May and June 1797.]

Without provisions, destitute of water, and almost without bodily strength, it cannot be doubted that their sufferings were very great before they reached a place of safety and relief. They left the island on the 3rd of July, the day on which their companions were butchered. On the 7th, having the preceding day passed a sand-bank covered with birds, they providentially, in the morning, found two small birds in the boat, one of which they immediately divided into three parts, and were considerably relieved by eating it. On the 8th they found themselves with land on both sides. Through these straits they passed, and continued their course to the westward. All that could be done with their wounds was to keep them clean by opening them occasionally, and washing them with salt water. On the 11th they saw land, and pushed their boat into a bay, all agreeing that they had better trust to the chance of being well received on shore, than to that of perishing in the course of a day or two more at sea. Here they procured some water and a roasted yam from the natives, who also gave them to understand that Timor was to the southward of them. Not thinking themselves quite so safe here as they would be at Coupang, they again embarked. They soon after found a proa in chase of them, which they eluded by standing with their boat over a reef that the proa would not encounter. On the morning of the 13th they saw a point of land ahead, which, with the wind as it then was, they could not weather. They therefore ran into a small bay, where the natives received them, calling out 'Bligh! Bligh!' Here they landed, were hospitably received, and providentially saved from the horror of perishing by famine.

Without food, lacking water, and nearly too weak to move, it’s clear their suffering was immense before they finally reached safety and relief. They left the island on July 3rd, the same day their friends were killed. By July 7th, after passing a sandbank filled with birds the day before, they unexpectedly found two small birds in the boat that morning. They quickly split one into three pieces, which gave them a significant boost by eating it. By the 8th, they found land on both sides. They navigated through those straits and continued westward. The best they could do for their wounds was to keep them clean by occasionally opening them and rinsing with saltwater. On the 11th, they spotted land and steered their boat into a bay, deciding it was better to risk being welcomed ashore than to face certain death at sea within a day or two. Here, they got some water and a roasted yam from the locals, who also indicated that Timor lay to the south of them. Not feeling completely safe there compared to Coupang, they set off again. Soon after, they noticed a proa pursuing them, which they escaped by maneuvering their boat over a reef that the proa couldn’t cross. On the morning of the 13th, they saw a land point ahead that they couldn’t sail around with the current wind, so they entered a small bay where the locals welcomed them, calling out 'Bligh! Bligh!' They landed, received warm hospitality, and were miraculously saved from the terror of dying from hunger.

This place was called by the natives Sarrett, and was distinct from Timor Land, which was the first place they refreshed at. They were also informed, that there was another small island to the northward, called by them Fardatte, but which in some charts was named Ta-na-bor. They also understood that a proa came yearly from Banda to trade at Tanabor, and that her arrival was expected in the course of seven or eight months.

This location was known by the locals as Sarrett, separate from Timor Land, which was the first spot where they took a break. They were also told that there was another small island to the north called Fardatte, though some maps referred to it as Ta-na-bor. They learned that a proa came every year from Banda to trade at Tanabor, and that its arrival was anticipated in about seven or eight months.

They were much gratified with this information, and soon found that they had fallen into the hands of a hospitable and humane race of people.

They were really pleased with this news and quickly realized that they had come into the company of a friendly and caring group of people.

On the 25th of July Mr. Carter's wound was entirely healed, after having had thirteen pieces of the fractured skull taken out. But this gentleman was fated not long to survive his sufferings. He remained in perfect health until the 17th of November, when he caught a fever, of which he died on the 10th of December, much regretted by his two friends (for adversity makes friends of those who perhaps, in other situations, would never have shaken hands).

On July 25th, Mr. Carter's wound was fully healed after having thirteen pieces of his fractured skull removed. Unfortunately, this gentleman was destined not to survive his suffering for long. He stayed in perfect health until November 17th, when he came down with a fever, which led to his death on December 10th, deeply mourned by his two friends (because tough times can create bonds between people who might not have connected otherwise).

The two survivors waited in anxious expectation for the arrival of the annual trading proa from Banda. To their great joy she came on the 12th of March 1794.

The two survivors waited nervously for the annual trading proa from Banda to arrive. To their delight, it arrived on March 12, 1794.

For Banda they sailed on the 10th of April, and arrived there on the 1st of May following, where they were received with the greatest hospitality by the governor, who supplied them with every thing necessary for people in their situation, and provided them with a passage on board an Indiaman bound to Batavia, where they arrived on the 10th of the following October; adding another to the many instances of escape from the perils which attend on those whose hard fate have driven them to navigate the ocean in an open boat.

For Banda, they set sail on April 10th and arrived on May 1st, where the governor welcomed them with incredible hospitality, ensuring they had everything needed for people in their situation. He arranged for them to board an Indiaman heading to Batavia, where they arrived on October 10th. This added to the many stories of those who, due to harsh circumstances, find themselves risking the sea in an open boat.

Hard indeed was the fate of Captain Hill and Mr. Carter. They were gentlemen of liberal education, qualified to adorn the circles of life in which their rank in society placed them. How lamentable thus to perish, the one by the hands and rude weapons of barbarous savages, cut off in the prime of life and most perfect enjoyment of his faculties, lost for ever to a mother and sister whom he tenderly loved, his body mangled, roasted, and devoured by cannibals; the other, after escaping from those cannibals, to perish* in a country where all were strangers to him, except his two companions in misery Shaw and Ascott, to give up all his future prospects in life, never more to meet the cheering eye of friendship or of love, and without having had the melancholy satisfaction of recounting his perils, his escape, and sufferings, to those who would sympathise with him in the tale of his sorrows.

Hard was the fate of Captain Hill and Mr. Carter. They were educated gentlemen who could have thrived in the social circles their status afforded them. How tragic to end up like this: one killed by the hands and crude weapons of savage attackers, cut down in the prime of his life and full enjoyment of his abilities, lost forever to a mother and sister he loved dearly, his body mutilated, roasted, and eaten by cannibals; the other, after narrowly escaping those cannibals, to die in a land where everyone was a stranger to him, except for his two companions in suffering, Shaw and Ascott, giving up all his hopes for the future, never to see the reassuring glance of friendship or love again, and without ever having had the sorrowful chance to share the story of his dangers, escape, and suffering with those who would sympathize with his tale of grief.

[* It is evident, if this account be true, that Mr. Dell must have been mistaken in his opinion of having carried on board the Shah Hormuzear a hand which, from a certain mark on it, he knew to have belonged to Mr. Carter.]

[* If this account is true, it's clear that Mr. Dell must have been wrong in thinking he brought on board the Shah Hormuzear a hand that he recognized as belonging to Mr. Carter, based on a specific mark.]

On the 17th the vessel built by the shipwright Hatherleigh at Dusky Bay arrived, with some of the people left behind by Mr. Bampton. They were so distressed for provisions, that the person who had the direction of the vessel could not bring away the whole; and it was singularly fortunate that he arrived as he did, for with all the economy that could be used, his small stock of provisions was consumed to the last mouthful the day before he made the land.

On the 17th, the ship built by the carpenter Hatherleigh at Dusky Bay arrived, bringing back some people who had been left behind by Mr. Bampton. They were in such desperate need of supplies that the person in charge of the ship couldn't take everyone back. It was particularly fortunate that he arrived when he did, because despite all efforts to manage, his limited stock of provisions was completely used up the day before he reached the shore.

This vessel, which the officer who commanded her (Waine, one of the mates of the Endeavour) not unappropriately named the Assistance, was built entirely of the timber of Dusky Bay, but appeared to be miserably constructed. She was of near sixty tons burden, and was now to be sold* for the benefit of Mr. Bampton.

This ship, commanded by an officer named Waine (one of the mates of the Endeavour), was fittingly named the Assistance. It was entirely made from timber from Dusky Bay, but it seemed poorly constructed. She weighed nearly sixty tons and was now being sold for Mr. Bampton's benefit.*

[* Notwithstanding all her imperfections, she was valued at and sold for two hundred and fifty pounds.]

[* Despite all her flaws, she was valued at and sold for two hundred and fifty pounds.]

The situation of the people still remaining at Dusky Bay was not, we understood, the most enviable; their dependence for provisions being chiefly on the seals and birds which they might kill. They had all belonged to this colony, and one or two happened to be persons of good character.

The situation of the people still at Dusky Bay wasn't, as we understood, the most desirable; they mainly depended on the seals and birds they could hunt for food. They had all been part of this colony, and a couple of them were individuals of good character.

On the 10th the American sailed for the north-west coast of America. In her went Mr. James Fitzpatrick Knaresbro', a gentleman whose hard lot it was to be doomed to banishment for life from his native country, Ireland, and the enjoyment of a comfortable fortune which he there possessed. He arrived here in the Sugar Cane transport, in the year 1793, and had lived constantly at Parramatta with the most rigid economy and severe self-denial even of the common comforts of life.

On the 10th, the American ship set sail for the northwest coast of America. On board was Mr. James Fitzpatrick Knaresbro', a man who was tragically exiled for life from his home country, Ireland, and from the comfortable wealth he once had there. He arrived on the Sugar Cane transport in 1793 and had been living in Parramatta with extreme frugality and strict self-denial, even of basic comforts.

It was seen with concern that the crops of this season proved in general bad, the wheat being almost every where mixed with a weed named by the farmers Drake. Every care was taken to prevent this circumstance from happening in the ensuing season, by cleaning with the greatest nicety not only such wheat as was intended for seed, but such as was received into the public store from ettlers. It was occasioned by the ground being overwrought, from a greediness to make it produce golden harvests every season, without allowing it time to recruit itself from crop to crop, or being able to afford it manure. Had this not happened, the crops would most likely have been immense.

It was concerning to see that the crops this season turned out to be generally poor, with wheat almost everywhere mixed with a weed that the farmers called Drake. Every effort was made to prevent this from happening in the next season, by carefully cleaning not only the wheat intended for seed but also the wheat received into the public store from settlers. This issue arose because the land had been overworked, driven by a desire to produce golden harvests every season without giving it time to recover between crops or providing it with fertilizer. If this hadn't occurred, the crops would likely have been enormous.

At the Hawkesbury, where alone any promise of agricultural advantages was to be found, the settlers were immersed in intoxication. Riot and madness marked their conduct; and this was to be attributed to the spirits that, in defiance of every precaution, found their way thither.

At the Hawkesbury, where any promise of agricultural benefits could be found, the settlers were caught up in drunkenness. Their behavior was marked by chaos and madness, which could be blamed on the alcohol that, despite all precautions, managed to reach them.

Early in the month a store-room belonging to Captain Paterson was broken into, and articles to a large amount stolen thereout. A sentinel was stationed in the front of the house; notwithstanding which, the thieves had time to remove, through a small hole that they made in a brick wall, all the property they stole.

Early in the month, a storage room owned by Captain Paterson was broken into, and a significant amount of items was stolen. There was a guard posted in front of the house; however, the thieves managed to take all the stolen goods through a small hole they created in a brick wall.

In the course of the month Captain Townson, another officer of the corps, was also robbed. He had that morning received in trust sixty pounds in dollars; these, together with his watch, were stolen from him in the following night. His servants were suspected, as were also Captain Paterson's; but nothing could be fixed upon them that bore the resemblance of proof.

During the month, Captain Townson, another officer in the corps, was also robbed. That morning, he had received sixty pounds in cash; these, along with his watch, were stolen from him the following night. His servants were suspected, as were Captain Paterson's, but nothing could be pinned on them that resembled proof.

Robberies were more frequent now than they had been for some time past, scarcely a night passing without at least an attempt being made. On the 17th, the festival of St. Patrick, the night-watch were assaulted by two fellows, Matthew Farrel and Richard Sutton, (better known by the title of the Newgate Bully,) while the latter was pursued by them from a house which he was endeavouring to break into, to the house of Farrel, who tried to secrete him, and afford him protection.

Robberies were happening more often now than they had in a long time, with hardly a night going by without at least one attempt. On the 17th, St. Patrick's Day, the night watch was attacked by two guys, Matthew Farrel and Richard Sutton, (better known as the Newgate Bully). Sutton had been chased by them from a house he was trying to break into to Farrel’s place, where Farrel tried to hide him and protect him.

A woman was stopped in the street at night, and a piece of callico forcibly taken from her. A convict being taken up as the man who had robbed her, she at first was positive to his person, but when brought before a magistrate, on recollecting that his life might be in danger, she was ready to swear that, it being very dark at the time, it was not possible she should know his features. Thus difficult was it too often found to bring these people to justice.

A woman was stopped on the street at night, and someone forcibly took a piece of her calico. A convict was arrested as the man who robbed her; at first, she was sure it was him, but when she was taken before a magistrate and remembered that his life could be at risk, she was willing to swear that, since it was very dark at the time, there was no way she could recognize his face. It was often too difficult to bring these people to justice.

On the 24th his Majesty's ship Supply sailed for Norfolk Island. The patent for holding criminal courts there, which was brought hither by the Cornwallis, was sent by this conveyance, together with R. Sutton (the Newgate Bully) and some other very bad characters, who, it was not unlikely, would soon entitle themselves to the benefit of the patent which accompanied them.

On the 24th, the king's ship Supply set sail for Norfolk Island. The patent for holding criminal courts there, which was brought here by the Cornwallis, was sent with this shipment, along with R. Sutton (the Newgate Bully) and some other really bad characters, who would likely soon qualify for the benefits of the patent that came with them.

Hogs again became such a public nuisance, by running loose in the town, without rings or yokes, that another order respecting them was given out, directing the owners either to shut them up, or appoint them to be watched when at large.

Hogs once again became a significant nuisance, roaming freely in the town without any rings or yokes, prompting another directive regarding them, instructing owners to either confine them or have someone keep an eye on them when they're out.

Reports were again received this month of fresh outrages committed by the natives at the river. The schooner which had been sent round with provisions saw some of these people off a high point of land named Portland Head, who menaced them with their spears, and carried in their appearance every mark of hostility. The governor being at this time on an excursion to that settlement (by water), one of his party landed on the shore opposite Portland Head, and saw at a short distance a large body of natives, who he understood had assembled for the purpose of burning the corpse of a man who had been killed in some contest among themselves.

Reports were received again this month about new attacks by the natives at the river. The schooner that had been sent around with supplies spotted some of these people from a high point of land called Portland Head, who threatened them with their spears and showed every sign of hostility. The governor was on a trip to that settlement (by water) at the time, and one of his group landed on the shore opposite Portland Head. He saw a large group of natives nearby, who, he learned, had gathered to burn the body of a man who had been killed in a conflict among themselves.

About this time Bennillong, who occasionally shook off the habits of civilized life, and went for a few days into the woods with his sisters and other friends, sent in word that he had had a contest with his bosom friend Cole-be, in which he had been so much the sufferer, that until his wounds were healed he could not with any pleasure to himself appear at the governor's table. This notification was accompanied with a request, that his clothes, which he had left behind him when he went away, might be sent him, together with some victuals, of which he was much in want.

About this time, Bennillong, who sometimes broke away from civilized life, spent a few days in the woods with his sisters and friends. He sent word that he had a fight with his close friend Cole-be, and he was injured so badly that he couldn't enjoy coming to the governor's table until he healed. He also asked for his clothes, which he had left behind when he left, along with some food, since he was in need of it.

On his coming among us again, he appeared with a wound on his mouth, which had divided the upper lip and broke two of the teeth of that jaw. His features, never very pleasing, now seemed out of all proportion, and his pronunciation was much altered. Finding himself badly received among the females (although improved by his travels in the little attentions that are supposed to have their weight with the sex) and not being able to endure a life of celibacy, which had been his condition from the day of his departure from this country until nearly the present hour, he made an attack upon his friend's favourite, Boo-ree-a, in which he was not only unsuccessful, but was punished for his breach of friendship, as above related, by Cole-be, who sarcastically asked him, 'if he meant that kind of conduct to be a specimen of English manners?'

When he returned to us, he had a wound on his mouth that split his upper lip and broke two of his teeth. His features, which were never very attractive, now seemed out of whack, and his speech was noticeably changed. He was not well-received by the women, even though he had tried to impress them with the little gestures that are supposed to work in his favor, and he couldn’t stand living without a partner, which he had done since he left this country until nearly now. He made a move on his friend’s favorite, Boo-ree-a, but not only did he fail, he was also punished by Cole-be for his betrayal of friendship, who sarcastically asked him if he thought that kind of behavior was a good example of English manners.

The Ceres, having been discharged from government employ, sailed in the beginning of the month for Canton. Being well manned, the master was not in want of any hands from this place; but eight convicts found means to secrete themselves on board a day or two before she sailed. They were however, by the great vigilance of Mr. Hedley, discovered in time to be sent back to their labour. Among them we were not surprised to find two or three of the last importation from Ireland.

The Ceres, having been released from government service, set sail at the start of the month for Canton. With a well-staffed crew, the captain didn’t need any help from this place; however, eight convicts managed to hide themselves on board a day or two before departure. Fortunately, thanks to the careful attention of Mr. Hedley, they were discovered in time and sent back to their work. Among them, we weren’t surprised to see two or three from the latest group brought over from Ireland.

We lost four persons by death during this month. On the 6th died of a severe dysentery, Richard Hudson, the sergeant-major of the New South Wales corps. At three in the morning of the 16th Mr. Joseph Gerald breathed his last. A consumption which accompanied him from England, and which all his wishes and efforts to shake off could not overcome, at length brought him to that period when, perhaps, his strong enlightened mind must have perceived how full of vanity and vexation of spirit were the busiest concerns of this world; and into what a narrow limit was now to be thrust that frame which but of late trod firmly in the walk of life, elate and glowing with youthful hope, glorying in being a martyr to the cause which he termed that of Freedom, and considering as an honour that exile which brought him to an untimely grave.* He was followed in three days after by another victim to mistaken opinions, Mr. William Skirving. A dysentery was the apparent cause of his death, but his heart was broken. In the hope of receiving remittances from England, which might enable him to proceed with spirit and success in farming, of which he appeared to have a thorough knowledge, he had purchased from different persons, who had ground to sell, about one hundred acres of land adjacent to the town of Sydney. He soon found that a farm near the sea-coast was of no great value. His attention and his efforts to cultivate the ground were of no avail. Remittances he received none; he contracted some little debts, and found himself neglected by that party for whom he had sacrificed the dearest connexions in life, a wife and family; and finally yielded to the pressure of this accumulated weight. Among us, he was a pious, honest, worthy character. In this settlement his political principles never manifested themselves; but all his solicitude seemed to be to evince himself the friend of human nature. Requiescat in pace!

We lost four people to death this month. On the 6th, Richard Hudson, the sergeant-major of the New South Wales corps, died from a severe dysentery. At three in the morning on the 16th, Mr. Joseph Gerald passed away. He had been suffering from a consumption since coming from England, which none of his determined efforts could shake off. Eventually, he reached a point where, perhaps, his sharp intellect must have realized how empty and frustrating the most active pursuits of this world can be, and how limited his body was now, which had recently walked confidently through life, filled with youthful hope, proud to be a martyr for what he called Freedom, and regarding his exile—which ultimately led him to an early grave—as an honor. Three days later, another victim of misguided beliefs, Mr. William Skirving, followed him. While dysentery was the apparent cause of his death, his heart was broken. He had hoped for remittances from England to help him farm, a field he seemed knowledgeable in, and he had bought about one hundred acres of land near Sydney from various sellers. He soon realized that a farm close to the coast held little value. His hard work to cultivate the land yielded no results. He received no money from England, accrued some small debts, and felt abandoned by the party for whom he sacrificed his most cherished connections—his wife and family. Eventually, he succumbed to the burden of this accumulated pressure. Among us, he was a pious, honest, and honorable person. In this community, his political beliefs were never obvious; instead, he seemed solely focused on being a friend to humanity. Requiescat in pace!

[* He was buried in the garden of a little spot of ground which he had purchased at Farm Cove. Mr. F. Palmer, we understood, had written his epitaph at large.]

[* He was buried in the garden of a small piece of land he had bought at Farm Cove. We learned that Mr. F. Palmer had written his lengthy epitaph.]

CHAPTER XXXI

Slops served
Orders
Licenses granted
The Supply returns from Norfolk Island
The Susan from North America and the Indispensable from England
A Criminal and Civil Court held
Sick
Thefts committed
The Britannia arrives from Bengal
Mr. Raven's opinion on the time it takes to travel to India
A Civil Court
The Cornwallis and Experiment sail for India
Caution to ship captains
A windmill started
Thefts committed
State of the settlers
The Governor visits Mount Hunter
Regulations
Public works
Deaths

April.] In the beginning of this month a very liberal allowance of slops was served to the prisoners male and female. As it had been too much the practice for these people to sell the clothing they received from government as soon as it was issued to them, the governor on this occasion gave it out in public orders, that whenever it should be proved that any person had either sold or otherwise made away with any of the articles then issued, the buyer and seller or receiver thereof would both subject themselves to corporal or other punishment. Orders, however, had never yet been known to have much weight with these people.

April.] At the start of this month, a generous supply of food was distributed to the male and female prisoners. Since it had become quite common for these individuals to sell the clothing they received from the government as soon as they got it, the governor announced public orders stating that if anyone was caught selling or getting rid of any of the items issued to them, both the buyer and the seller or receiver would face corporal or other punishment. However, orders had never really been effective with these people.

Thefts were still nightly committed. At the Hawkesbury the corn store was broken into, and a quantity of wheat and other articles stolen; and two people were apprehended for robbing the deputy-surveyor's fowl-house. All these depredations were chiefly committed by those public nuisances the people off the stores.

Thefts were still happening every night. At the Hawkesbury, someone broke into the corn store and stole a bunch of wheat and other items, and two people were caught for robbing the deputy-surveyor's chicken coop. Most of these crimes were mainly carried out by those public nuisances, the people living off the stores.

Toward preventing the indiscriminate sale of spirits which at this time prevailed in all the settlements, the governor thought that granting licences to a few persons of good character might have a good effect. Ten persons were selected by the magistrates, and to them licences for twelve months, under the hands of three magistrates, were granted. The principals were bound in the usual penalties of twenty pounds each, and obliged to find two sureties in ten pounds: and as from the very frequent state of intoxication in which great numbers of the lower order of people had for some time past been seen, there was much reason to suspect that a greater quantity of spirituous liquors had been landed from the different ships which had entered this port than permits had been obtained for, it became highly necessary to put a stop, as early as possible, to a practice which was pregnant with all kinds of mischief. The governor judged it necessary, the more effectually to suppress the dangerous practice of retailing spirits in this indiscriminate way, not only to grant licences under the restrictions abovementioned, but to desire the aid of all officers, civil and military, and in a more particular manner of all magistrates, constables, etc. as they regarded the good of his Majesty's service, the peace, tranquillity, and good order of the colony, to use their utmost exertions for putting an end to a species of traffic, from which the destruction of health and the ruin of all industry were to be expected; and urged them to endeavour to discover who those people were, that, self-licenced only, had presumed to open public houses for this abominable purpose.

To stop the random sale of alcohol that was happening in all the settlements at the time, the governor thought that giving licenses to a few trustworthy individuals might help. Ten people were chosen by the magistrates, and they were granted licenses for twelve months, signed by three magistrates. The licensees were required to pay the usual penalties of twenty pounds each and to find two sureties of ten pounds each. Given the frequent instances of intoxication among many from the lower class that had been observed for some time, there was strong suspicion that more alcoholic drinks had been brought in by various ships than permits allowed. It became crucial to put an end to a practice that could lead to numerous problems as soon as possible. The governor deemed it necessary, to more effectively curb the dangerous practice of selling spirits in such a haphazard manner, not only to issue licenses with the restrictions mentioned above but also to seek the help of all civil and military officers, particularly all magistrates and constables. He urged them, in the interest of the king's service, to maintain peace, order, and good conditions in the colony, to do their utmost to end this type of trade, which risked destroying health and ruining livelihoods. He encouraged them to find out who those self-licensed individuals were that had dared to open public houses for this terrible purpose.

He also informed those who might, after knowing his intentions, be daring enough to continue to act in opposition to them, that the house of every offender should be pulled down as a public nuisance, and such other steps be taken for his further punishment as might be deemed necessary.

He also told anyone who, knowing his intentions, would be bold enough to go against them, that the house of every offender would be destroyed as a public nuisance, and additional actions would be taken for their further punishment as deemed necessary.

In the evening of the 18th his Majesty's ship Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent only three weeks and four days, the quickest passage that had yet been made to and from that island. At night word was sent up from the Look-out, that another vessel was off, and on the following evening the snow Susan arrived from Rhode Island, having been at sea two hundred and thirty-one days, not touching any where on her passage.

In the evening of the 18th, His Majesty's ship Supply returned from Norfolk Island, having been gone for just three weeks and four days, the fastest journey ever made to and from that island. That night, a message came from the lookout that another vessel was nearby, and the next evening, the snow Susan arrived from Rhode Island, having been at sea for two hundred and thirty-one days without stopping anywhere on her route.

The Americans were observed to make these kind of voyages from motives of frugality, sailing direct for this port; but they were at the same time observed to bring in their people extremely healthy. On our enquiring what methods they took so to secure the health of their seamen, they told us that in general they found exercise the best preventive against the scurvy, and considered idleness as the surest means of introducing it. In addition to exercise, however, they made frequent use of acids in the diet of their seamen, and of fumigations from tobacco in their between-decks. Certain it was that none of our ships, which touched in their way out at other ports, arrived so generally healthy.

The Americans were seen to take these kinds of trips for practical reasons, heading straight to this port; but at the same time, they were also noted for bringing their crew in very healthy. When we asked how they managed to keep their sailors healthy, they told us that, in general, they found exercise to be the best way to prevent scurvy and regarded idleness as the best way to bring it on. Besides exercise, they also used acids frequently in their sailors' diets and used tobacco smoke in the living quarters. It's clear that none of our ships, which stopped at other ports on their way out, arrived as healthy overall.

A Mr. Trotter was the master of this vessel. He was an Irishman by birth, but but had for some time been a citizen of the United States. Strong currents and foul winds had been his enemies in the late voyage. His cargo consisted of spirits, broad-cloth, and a variety of useful and desirable articles, adapted to the necessities of this country.

A Mr. Trotter was the captain of this ship. He was born in Ireland but had been living in the United States for some time. Strong currents and bad winds had made his recent trip difficult. His cargo included liquor, cloth, and a mix of useful and desirable items suited for the needs of this country.

On the last day of this month the Indispensable transport arrived from England, with one hundred and thirty-one female convicts, and a small quantity of provisions on board for their consumption.

On the last day of this month, the Indispensable transport arrived from England with one hundred thirty-one female convicts and a small amount of provisions for their use.

Mr. Wilkinson, who commanded this ship, we found, to our great regret, had not touched at the Cape of Good Hope; he had stopped only at the port of Rio de Janeiro. This was unfortunate, as it was intended that the king's ships should sail early in the ensuing month of September for that part of the world. That the war still raged in Europe we heard with concern, feeling as every humane mind must do for the sufferings of its fellow-creatures; but it was in the highest degree gratifying to us to know that our situation was not wholly forgotten at home, proof enough of which we experienced in the late frequent arrivals of ships from England.

Mr. Wilkinson, who was in charge of this ship, regrettably had not stopped at the Cape of Good Hope; he had only docked at the port of Rio de Janeiro. This was unfortunate since the king's ships were supposed to set sail early in the upcoming month of September for that region. We were concerned to hear that the war was still ongoing in Europe, feeling, as anyone with compassion would, for the suffering of others. However, it was very reassuring for us to know that our situation was not completely forgotten back home, which was evident from the recent frequent arrivals of ships from England.

At a criminal court which was held in this month four prisoners were tried for forging, and uttering with a forged endorsement, the note which had been passed at Mr. Hogan's store in February last, when James McCarthy was convicted of the same, and received sentence of death; the others who were tried with him were acquitted. This trial had been delayed some time, McCarthy having found means to break out of the cells, and remain for some weeks sheltered at the Hawkesbury, the refuge of all the Sydney rogues when in danger of being apprehended.

At a criminal court this month, four prisoners were tried for forgery and for using a forged endorsement on the note that had been passed at Mr. Hogan's store last February, when James McCarthy was convicted of the same offense and sentenced to death; the others who were tried with him were found not guilty. This trial had been postponed for a while because McCarthy managed to escape from the cells and stayed hidden for several weeks in the Hawkesbury, a safe haven for all the Sydney crooks when they're at risk of getting caught.

Three prisoners were tried for stealing some articles out of the store at the river, one of whom was found guilty, viz James Ashford, a young lad who had been formerly drummed out of the New South Wales corps. He was sentenced to seven years labour at Norfolk Island. One soldier was accused by an old man, a settler at the river, of an unnatural crime, but acquitted.

Three prisoners were tried for stealing some items from the store by the river, and one of them, James Ashford, a young guy who had previously been kicked out of the New South Wales corps, was found guilty. He was sentenced to seven years of hard labor at Norfolk Island. A soldier faced accusations from an older man, a settler by the river, of a serious crime, but he was acquitted.

Two people off the store were found guilty of stealing some geese, the property of Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy-surveyor, and sentenced to receive corporal punishment. Another of the same class was found guilty of cutting and wounding a servant of the commissary, who had prevented his committing a theft, and was sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes; and one man, George Hyson, for an attempt to commit the abominable crime of bestiality, was sentenced to stand three times in the pillory, an hour each time.

Two people from the store were found guilty of stealing some geese belonging to Mr. Charles Grimes, the deputy-surveyor, and were sentenced to receive corporal punishment. Another person from the same group was found guilty of cutting and injuring a servant of the commissary, who had stopped him from stealing, and was sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes. One man, George Hyson, for attempting to commit the terrible crime of bestiality, was sentenced to stand in the pillory three times, for one hour each time.

How unpleasing were the reflections that arose from this catalogue of criminals and their offences! No punishment however exemplary, no reward however great, could operate on the minds of these unthinking people. Equally indifferent to the pain which the former might occasion, and the gratification that the other might afford, they blindly pursued the dictates of their vicious inclinations, to whatever they prompted; and when stopped by the arm of justice, which sometimes reached them, they endured the consequences with an hardened obstinacy and indifference that effectually checked the sensations of pity which are naturally excited by the view of human sufferings.

How unpleasant were the thoughts that came from this list of criminals and their offenses! No punishment, no matter how severe, and no reward, no matter how significant, could make any difference to these thoughtless people. They were equally unmoved by the pain that the former might cause and the pleasure that the latter might bring. They blindly followed their destructive desires wherever they led them; and when they were finally caught by justice, which occasionally happened, they faced the consequences with a hardened stubbornness and indifference that completely shut down any feelings of sympathy that usually arise from witnessing human suffering.

A civil court also was assembled this month, by which some writs and some probates of wills were granted.

A civil court was also held this month, during which some legal orders and some wills were approved.

At the Hawkesbury, where the settlers were consuming their subsistence in drunkenness, a very excellent barrack was erecting for the use of the commandant, on a spot which had been selected sufficiently high to preclude any danger of the building being affected by a flood.

At the Hawkesbury, where the settlers were wasting their resources on alcohol, a really nice barrack was being built for the commandant in a location chosen high enough to avoid any risk of flooding.

In this and the preceding month many people, adults as well as children, were again afflicted with inflammations in the eyes. Having been visited by this disorder in the month of April 1794, about which time we had the same variable weather as was now experienced, we attributed its appearance among us at this time to the same cause. The medical gentlemen could not account for it on any other principle. One man, Sergeant-major Jones of the New South Wales corps, died.

In this month and the last, a lot of people, both adults and kids, experienced eye inflammations again. Having dealt with this issue in April 1794, when we had the same unpredictable weather we're seeing now, we thought its return was due to the same reason. The doctors couldn't explain it any other way. One man, Sergeant-Major Jones of the New South Wales Corps, died.

May.] Sixty of the women received by the Indispensable were sent up to Parramatta, there to be employed in such labour as was suited to their sex and strength. The remainder were landed at this place.

May.] Sixty of the women taken in by the Indispensable were sent to Parramatta to work in jobs that were appropriate for their gender and physical abilities. The rest were brought to this location.

On the 4th the governor notified in public orders his appointment of Mr. D'Arcy Wentworth to the situation of assistant-surgeon to the settlement, in the room of Mr. Samuel Leeds, the gentleman who came out with Governor Hunter, he being permitted to return to England for the recovery of his health.

On the 4th, the governor announced in public orders his appointment of Mr. D'Arcy Wentworth as the assistant surgeon for the settlement, taking over from Mr. Samuel Leeds, who came out with Governor Hunter and was allowed to return to England for health recovery.

Daily experience proved, that those people whose sentences of transportation had expired were greater evils than the convicts themselves. It was at this time impossible to spare the labour of a single man from the public work. Of course, no man was allowed to remove himself from that situation without permission. But, notwithstanding this had been declared in public orders, many were known to withdraw themselves from labour and the provision-store on the day of their servitude ceasing. On their being apprehended, punished for a breach of the order, and ordered again to labour, they seized the first opportunity of running away, taking either to the woods to subsist by depredations, or to the shelter which the Hawkesbury settlers afforded to every vagabond that asked it.

Daily experience showed that those people whose transportation sentences had ended were a bigger problem than the convicts themselves. At this time, it was impossible to take even one person away from public work. Naturally, no one was allowed to leave that situation without permission. However, despite this being clearly stated in public orders, many were known to skip labor and the provision store once their term of servitude was up. When they were caught, punished for breaking the order, and ordered back to work, they took the first chance to escape, either heading into the woods to survive by stealing or seeking refuge from the Hawkesbury settlers, who offered shelter to any vagrant who asked for it.

By these people we were well convinced every theft was committed. Their information was good; they never attempted a house that was not an object of plunder; and wherever there was any property they were sure to pay a visit. The late robberies at the clergyman's and at Captain Townson's were among the most striking instances.

By these people, we were fully convinced that every theft was carried out. Their information was reliable; they never targeted a house that wasn’t worth robbing; and whenever there was any valuable property, they were sure to show up. The recent burglaries at the clergyman's and at Captain Townson's were some of the most notable examples.

It was on these occasions generally conjectured, that the domestics of the house must aid and assist in the theft; for the perpetrator of it always seemed to know where to lay his hand on the article for which he thus risked his neck; and we never found them make an attempt on the house of a poor individual.

It was generally assumed on these occasions that the household staff must help with the theft; the thief always seemed to know exactly where to find the item he risked everything for, and we never noticed them trying to rob the home of someone poor.

On Wednesday the 11th, to the great satisfaction of the settlement at large, the Britannia storeship arrived safe from Calcutta and Madras, entering this port for the fifth time with a valuable cargo on board.

On Wednesday the 11th, to the great satisfaction of the whole settlement, the Britannia storeship arrived safely from Calcutta and Madras, coming into this port for the fifth time with a valuable cargo on board.

She was now freighted with salted provisions, and a small quantity of rice on account of government, procured by order of the presidencies of Calcutta and Madras. On private account, the different officers of the civil and military departments received the various commissions which they had been allowed to put into the ship; and one young mare, five cows, and one cow-calf, of the Bengal breed, were brought for sale.

She was now loaded with salted supplies and a small amount of rice for the government, obtained by order of the presidencies of Calcutta and Madras. For personal reasons, the various officers from the civil and military departments received the different shipments they had been permitted to put on the ship; and one young mare, five cows, and one calf, from the Bengal breed, were brought for sale.

On board of this ship arrived two officers of the Bengal army, Lieutenant Campbell and Mr. Phillips, a surgeon of the military establishment for the purpose of raising two hundred recruits from among those people who had served their respective terms of transportation. They were to be regularly enlisted and attested, and were to receive bounty-money; and a provisional engagement was made with Mr. Raven, to convey them to India, if no other service should offer for his ship.

On this ship, two officers from the Bengal army arrived: Lieutenant Campbell and Mr. Phillips, a military surgeon. Their goal was to recruit two hundred men from those who had completed their sentences of transportation. These recruits would be formally enlisted and sworn in, and they would receive a signing bonus. Additionally, a temporary agreement was made with Mr. Raven to transport them to India, provided no other assignment came up for his ship.

On the first view of this scheme it appeared very plausible, and we imagined that the execution of it would be attended with much good to the settlement, by ridding it of many of those wretches whom we had too much reason to deem our greatest nuisances: but when we found that the recruiting officer was instructed to be nice as to the characters of those he should enlist, and to entertain none that were of known bad morals, we perceived that the settlement would derive less benefit from it than was at first expected. There was also some reason to suppose, that several settlers would abandon their farms, and, leaving their families a burden to the store, embrace the change which was offered them by enlisting as East India soldiers. It was far better for us, if any were capable of bearing arms and becoming soldiers, to arm them in defence of their own lives and possessions, and, by embodying them from time to time as a militia, save to the public the expense of a regiment or corps raised for the mere purpose of protecting the public stores and the civil establishment of the colony.

At first glance, this plan seemed very reasonable, and we thought it would bring a lot of good to the settlement by getting rid of many of the people we considered to be our biggest problems. However, when we discovered that the recruiting officer was directed to be selective about the character of the individuals he would enlist and to reject anyone known for bad behavior, we realized that the settlement would benefit less from this than we initially expected. There was also some concern that several settlers might leave their farms and, leaving their families as a burden on the community store, would take the opportunity to enlist as East India soldiers. It would be much better for us if those capable of fighting could be armed to defend their own lives and property, and by organizing them as a militia from time to time, we could save the public the cost of maintaining a regiment or unit formed solely for the purpose of protecting public supplies and the civil administration of the colony.

Recruiting, therefore, in this colony for the Bengal army, being a measure that required some consideration, and which the governor thought should first have obtained the sanction of administration, he determined to wait the result of a communication on the subject with the secretary of state, before he gave it his countenance. At the same time he meant to recommend it in a certain degree, as it was evident that many good recruits might be taken, without any injury to the interests of the settlement, from that class of our people who, being no longer prisoners, declined labouring for government, and, without any visible means of subsisting, lived where and how they chose.

Recruiting in this colony for the Bengal army was a decision that needed careful thought. The governor believed it should first get approval from the administration, so he decided to wait for a response from the secretary of state about the issue before supporting it. At the same time, he intended to partially endorse it, as it was clear that many suitable recruits could be found without harming the settlement's interests, particularly from those individuals who, no longer prisoners, refused to work for the government and lived as they pleased without any visible means of support.

The Britannia, in her passage to Batavia, anchored in Gower's Harbour, New Ireland (on the 16th of July), where she completed her wood and water, and sailed on the 23rd. On the 2nd of September following she arrived at Batavia; and it appearing to Mr. Raven (as before observed) but too probable that he should be detained by the government if he ventured to wait even for their determination respecting supplying the provisions, he sailed on the 7th for Bengal, arriving in the Ganges on the 12th of October. Not being able to procure at Calcutta the full quantity of provisions that his ship could contain, he sailed for Madras on the 1st of February, where he anchored on the 15th. There he completed his cargo, and sailed, with five homeward-bound Indiamen, on the 27th of the same month. His passage to this country was long and tedious, owing to the prevalence of light and contrary winds; but we were all well pleased to be in possession of the comforts he brought us from that part of the world, and to congratulate him on his personal escape from the sickly and now inimical port of Batavia, as well as from the cruisers of the enemy, with which he had reason to suppose he might fall in on the Indian coast.

The Britannia, on her way to Batavia, anchored in Gower's Harbour, New Ireland (on July 16), where she took on wood and water, and set sail on the 23rd. On September 2, she arrived at Batavia; and Mr. Raven realized (as mentioned before) that it was very likely he would be held up by the government if he waited for their decision about supplying provisions, so he left for Bengal on the 7th, arriving in the Ganges on October 12. Unable to get the full amount of provisions his ship could carry in Calcutta, he headed for Madras on February 1, anchoring there on the 15th. He completed his cargo there and set sail with five homeward-bound Indiamen on the 27th of the same month. The journey back was long and frustrating due to light and opposing winds; however, we were all happy to receive the comforts he brought us from that part of the world and to celebrate his safe return from the unhealthy and now hostile port of Batavia, as well as from the enemy cruisers he feared he might encounter on the Indian coast.

On his return from this his second voyage to India, Mr. Raven gave it as his opinion, that the passage to be pursued from New South Wales to India depended wholly upon the season in which the ship might leave Port Jackson. From the month of November to April, or rather from October to the beginning of March, which ought to be the latest period that any ship should attempt a northern passage, he recommended making Norfolk Island; and thence, passing between the Loyalty islands* and New Caledonia, to keep as nearly as circumstances would allow in the longitude of 165 degrees East; until the ship should reach the latitude of 8 degrees South; and then shape a course to cross the equator in 160 degrees East; after which the master should steer to the NW by N or NNW until in the latitude of 5 degrees 20 minutes or 5 degrees 30 minutes North; in which latitude Mr. Raven would run down his longitude, and pass the south end of Mindanao, and between that island and Bascelan; and thence through the straits of Banguey into the China Sea. In running this passage, it would be necessary to pay attention to Mr. Dalrymple's charts of those islands, etc. which Mr. Raven found very accurate.

On his return from his second voyage to India, Mr. Raven expressed his belief that the route from New South Wales to India completely depended on the season when the ship left Port Jackson. From November to April, or more accurately from October to early March, which should be the latest time for any ship to attempt a northern passage, he suggested making Norfolk Island. From there, passing between the Loyalty Islands and New Caledonia, he recommended staying as close as possible to the longitude of 165 degrees East until reaching the latitude of 8 degrees South. Then the ship should head to cross the equator at 160 degrees East. After that, the captain should steer NW by N or NNW until reaching the latitude of 5 degrees 20 minutes or 5 degrees 30 minutes North. In that latitude, Mr. Raven would adjust his longitude, passing the southern tip of Mindanao and navigating between that island and Bascelan, and then through the straits of Banguey into the China Sea. While navigating this route, it would be important to refer to Mr. Dalrymple's charts of those islands, which Mr. Raven found very accurate.

[* The Loyalty Islands are situated between New Caledonia and the New Hebrides, and extend from about 21 degrees 30 minutes to 20 degrees 50 minutes S and from the longitude of 168 degrees to 167 degrees E. Mr. Raven supposed them to be a large group of islands, which, being pressed for time, he could not stop to survey. All that he had opportunity to determine was, the longitude and latitude of some of the head-lands. Many fires were seen on them in the night; the whole appeared to be full of wood, and in some places in high cultivation. These islands, certainly a discovery belonging to Mr. Raven, may be thought worthy of being explored at some future day, and become an object of consequence to the settlement in New South Wales.]

[* The Loyalty Islands are located between New Caledonia and the New Hebrides, stretching from about 21 degrees 30 minutes to 20 degrees 50 minutes S and from 168 degrees to 167 degrees E. Mr. Raven believed them to be a large group of islands, but due to time constraints, he couldn't stop to explore them. All he managed to determine were the longitude and latitude of some of the headlands. Many fires were visible at night; the islands appeared to be densely forested and, in some areas, heavily cultivated. These islands, undoubtedly a discovery of Mr. Raven, should be considered for exploration in the future and could be significant for the settlement in New South Wales.]

If leaving Port Jackson any time between the beginning of March and the 1st of September, Mr. Raven would prefer passing through a strait in the longitude of 156 degrees 10 minutes E or thereabout; and from the latitude of 7 degrees 06 minutes E to 6 degrees 42 minutes S which divides some part of the islands of the New Georgia of Captain Shortland; thence through St. George's Channel to the northward of New Guinea, through Dampier's Strait, down Pitt's Passage, to the southward of Boutton, and through the Straits of Salayer, into the Banda or Amboyna Sea. This passage the Britannia performed in sixty-five days from Port Jackson to Batavia; which, had it not been for calms she met with off the coast of New Guinea, would in all probability have been performed in six weeks, or thereabout.

If leaving Port Jackson anytime between early March and September 1st, Mr. Raven would rather go through a strait at around 156 degrees 10 minutes East; from the latitude of 7 degrees 06 minutes South to 6 degrees 42 minutes South, which separates part of the New Georgia islands of Captain Shortland; then through St. George's Channel north of New Guinea, through Dampier's Strait, down Pitt's Passage, south of Boutton, and through the Straits of Salayer, into the Banda or Amboyna Sea. The Britannia made this trip in sixty-five days from Port Jackson to Batavia; had it not encountered calms off the coast of New Guinea, it likely would have taken about six weeks.

Mr. Raven furnished these observations in the hope that they might benefit the settlement, by proving useful to the commanders of any ships which the governor might have occasion to send into those seas on the service of the colony.

Mr. Raven provided these observations hoping they would be helpful to the settlement, by being useful to the commanders of any ships that the governor might need to send into those waters for the colony's purposes.

The governor, convinced that an example was necessary to check the present practice of villainy, had ordered James McCarthy, the prisoner under sentence of death for forgery, to be executed on Saturday the 14th of this present month; but yielded to the request of Mr. Johnson (the clergyman who attended the prisoner) to spare his life, it appearing evidently on the trial, that, guilty though he certainly was, he had in the present instance been rather the victim of the vice of others, than of his own. He was accordingly pardoned, on condition of his serving for seven years at hard labour at Norfolk Island.

The governor, believing that a strong example was needed to stop the current trend of wrongdoing, had ordered James McCarthy, the prisoner sentenced to death for forgery, to be executed on Saturday the 14th of this month. However, he agreed to the request from Mr. Johnson (the clergyman who was with the prisoner) to spare his life, as it was clear during the trial that, although he was guilty, he had largely been a victim of others' misdeeds rather than his own. He was therefore pardoned, on the condition that he would serve seven years of hard labor at Norfolk Island.

About this time the Marquis Cornwallis and Experiment sailed for India. Previous to their departure, Mr. Hogan, the commander of the former, had requested an examination might be taken as to the circumstances of his conduct toward the convicts and others on board his ship during their passage from Ireland to this country. The examination upon oath was made by the judge-advocate, assisted by two other magistrates, to whom it appeared, that Mr. Hogan, but for the fortunate and timely discovery of it, would with his ship have fallen a sacrifice to as daring and alarming a conspiracy as, perhaps, ever had been entered into by a set of desperate wretches on board of any ship; and that nothing was left for him, to save himself from the danger of a similar circumstance occurring during the voyage, but to inflict immediate punishment, on the persons who were concerned in it.

About this time, the Marquis Cornwallis and Experiment set sail for India. Before they left, Mr. Hogan, the captain of the former, requested an investigation into his treatment of the convicts and others on his ship during their journey from Ireland to this country. The investigation, conducted under oath by the judge-advocate with the help of two other magistrates, revealed that Mr. Hogan, if it hadn’t been for a timely and fortunate discovery, would have lost his ship to one of the most daring and alarming conspiracies ever plotted by a group of desperate individuals on a ship. The only way he could protect himself from facing a similar threat during the voyage was to impose immediate punishment on those involved.

A civil court was assembled nearly about the same time, to try an assault, the action for which was brought by Mr. Matthew Austin (a gentleman who came out in the Marquis Cornwallis, as a superintending surgeon of the convicts in that ship, on the part of government) against Mr. Michael Hogan the commander, Mr. John Hogan the surgeon, and Henry Hacking the pilot. The circumstances of the assault being proved, the court adjudged Mr. M. Hogan to pay damages to the amount of fifty pounds; the others were acquitted.

A civil court was set up around the same time to hear a case of assault brought by Mr. Matthew Austin (a gentleman who arrived on the Marquis Cornwallis as a supervising surgeon for the convicts on that ship, representing the government) against Mr. Michael Hogan, the captain, Mr. John Hogan, the surgeon, and Henry Hacking, the pilot. The evidence for the assault was presented, and the court ordered Mr. M. Hogan to pay damages of fifty pounds; the others were found not guilty.

On Mr. McClellan's arrival from Bengal, he reminded us, that some property had been found concealed in the bed of one of our people, which property had been shown to him at the time, under a supposition that it might have been stolen from his ship. On his return to India, he found that a small bale, containing the very articles which had been shown him here, had been put on board him at Bengal, to be delivered as a present to a gentleman at Batavia, the initials of whose name were marked on the bale. On his stating these circumstances to the judge-advocate, that part of the property which had been found, and placed in the custody of the provost-marshal, was given up to Mr. McClellan. Rogers, who had been either the principal or the receiver, perhaps foreseeing that the offence might sooner or later be brought home to him, had taken himself off in the Endeavour, and was one of those persons who had been unavoidably left behind at Dusky Bay by Mr. Waine when he quitted that place in the Assistance.

On Mr. McClellan's arrival from Bengal, he reminded us that some property had been discovered hidden in the bed of one of our people. This property had been shown to him at the time, under the assumption that it might have been stolen from his ship. Upon returning to India, he found that a small bale, containing the exact items that had been shown to him here, had been loaded onto his ship in Bengal to be delivered as a gift to a gentleman in Batavia, whose initials were marked on the bale. When he shared these details with the judge-advocate, that part of the property which had been found and placed in the custody of the provost-marshal was returned to Mr. McClellan. Rogers, who had either been the main person involved or the one receiving it—perhaps anticipating that the offense might eventually be traced back to him—had left on the Endeavour and was one of the people who had been unfortunately left behind in Dusky Bay by Mr. Waine when he departed in the Assistance.

From the address with which this business must have been managed, masters of ships might see the necessity that existed for their keeping a vigilant eye over the people whom they admitted on their decks, and be perfectly assured, that many visited them for the express purpose of discovering what vigilance was observed by the master, his mates, and people. Many instances of this kind had occurred, although it might have been readily supposed, that a stranger would have been on his guard, and never have lost the idea of the description of people by whom he was likely to be visited. A large quantity of tobacco had been stolen out of the Bellona storeship shortly after she arrived here; half a cask of gunpowder had been stolen out of the Britannia, at the very time that the master was entertaming some of the gentlemen of the settlement in the cabin; Mr. Page, the master of the American ship Hope, was robbed of several articles, and the buckles out of his shoes, which stood in the cabin wherein he lay asleep; and this theft of the bale from on board the Experiment was an additional instance of the management and ability displayed by our people in conducting an affair of that kind.

From the way this business must have been run, ship captains could see the need to keep a close watch on the people they let on their decks, and they could be completely sure that many came on board specifically to find out how alert the captain, his mates, and crew were. There had been many cases like this, even though it might have been assumed that a stranger would be cautious and never lose sight of the types of people likely to visit. A large amount of tobacco was stolen from the Bellona storeship shortly after it arrived here; half a cask of gunpowder was taken from the Britannia while the captain was entertaining some gentlemen from the settlement in the cabin; Mr. Page, the captain of the American ship Hope, was robbed of several items, including the buckles from his shoes while he was asleep in the cabin; and the theft of the bales from the Experiment was another example of the skill and strategy shown by our people in carrying out such operations.

From this recapitulation of some of the offences which had been committed on board of ships while riding in this cove (to which many others might have been added), let the masters of those which may hereafter be sent out, and who may have perused this account, be cautious who they receive on board during the day, let their pretext of business, or coming from an officer, be what it may; never should they be suffered to mix with their seamen, nor to see where the stores of the ship are placed; nor should a boat be ever permitted to come alongside during the night, and in that case the people should not be allowed to come into the ship. The masters of ships were long since forbidden to receive any convict on board without a pass signed by the judge-advocate, who, from his official situation, was the best qualified to know the character of those who might apply; but the decks of ships were often filled with convicts, who went off with merely the sanction of the masters they lived with, although known perhaps at the time to be as suspicious characters as any in the settlement.

From this summary of some of the crimes that have occurred on ships while anchoring in this cove (to which many more could be added), let the captains of any ships sent out in the future, who may have read this account, be careful about whom they allow on board during the day, regardless of their reasons for coming, whether for business or sent by an officer. They should never be allowed to mix with the crew or to see where the ship's supplies are stored. Boats should never be allowed to come alongside at night, and in that case, no one should be permitted to come on board. Ship captains had long been prohibited from taking any convicts on board without a pass signed by the judge-advocate, who, by virtue of his position, was best suited to assess the character of those seeking to come on board. However, the decks of ships were frequently crowded with convicts who were only allowed on board with the permission of the captains they lived with, even though they may have been known at the time to be as untrustworthy as anyone in the settlement.

Among the Irish prisoners who arrived in the Marquis Cornwallis was one who professed to understand the business of a millwright, and who undertook with very little assistance to construct a mill at this place. He appeared rough and uncouth in his manners; but our want of a mill was so great, that it was determined to try what his abilities were, and place some hired artificers under his direction. A spot was chosen on the summit of the ground which forms the western side of the cove, and, saw-pits being dug for him, he began the work.

Among the Irish prisoners who arrived on the Marquis Cornwallis was one who claimed to know how to be a millwright and took on the challenge of building a mill here with very little help. He seemed rough around the edges, but since we desperately needed a mill, we decided to see what he could do and put a few hired workers under his supervision. A location was selected at the top of the hill on the western side of the cove, and after digging saw-pits for him, he started the construction.

With a mill once erected competent to the grinding of all our wheat, a reduction in the ration of flour would not be felt. So sensible of this advantage had the governor been, that he brought out with him the most material parts of a windmill, with a model, by which any millwright he might find here would be enabled to set up the different parts; and Thorp the millwright was employed in collecting and preparing the timber necessary for putting up this mill at Parramatta.

With a mill set up to grind all our wheat, we wouldn't notice a cut in our flour supply. The governor was quite aware of this benefit, so he brought the key parts of a windmill along with a model, allowing any millwright he found here to assemble the various components. Thorp the millwright was hired to gather and prepare the timber needed to build this mill in Parramatta.

The weather was very variable during the month. The cattle brought by Mr. Raven, though in Smithfield they would not all together have been worth fifty pounds, were sold by auction at enormous prices. The mares went at one hundred pounds, one of the cows at eighty-four pounds, and the others at prices something inferior.

The weather was very unpredictable throughout the month. The cattle brought by Mr. Raven, while they wouldn't have been worth more than fifty pounds in Smithfield, were auctioned off at outrageous prices. The mares sold for one hundred pounds, one of the cows went for eighty-four pounds, and the others sold for slightly lower amounts.

June.] His Majesty's birthday was observed by the settlement with that attention which, as English subjects, we were proud to pay to it. The Susan (with American colours flying), though provided with only six or eight guns, contrived to fire at one o'clock with the king's ships, a well-timed salute of twenty-one guns in honour of the day.

June.] His Majesty's birthday was celebrated by the settlement with the respect that, as English subjects, we felt proud to show. The Susan (with American colors flying), although equipped with only six or eight guns, managed to fire a well-timed salute of twenty-one guns at one o'clock alongside the king's ships to honor the day.

On this occasion the governor pardoned all culprits, except James McCarthy, who was under orders for Norfolk Island. It might be looked upon as a sort of encouragement to the commission of crimes, thus by a periodical pardon to render punishment less certain. If men were led to suppose, that on the King's birthday all culprits would be pardoned, they would be emboldened to offend, at least for a month or two previous to that time; but the governor did not mean to extend this act of mercy beyond the present occasion, being the first birthday of his sovereign that had occurred since his arrival.

On this occasion, the governor pardoned all offenders except James McCarthy, who was scheduled to go to Norfolk Island. This could be seen as a kind of incentive for committing crimes, as a regular pardon makes punishment less predictable. If people believed that on the King's birthday all offenders would be pardoned, they might be encouraged to commit crimes, at least in the month or two leading up to that date; however, the governor did not intend to extend this act of mercy beyond this one instance, being the first birthday of his sovereign since his arrival.

Several daring thefts were committed early in this month. William Waring, a prisoner who had been allowed to cultivate a farm of thirty acres on the banks of the Hawkesbury, having occasion to move a cask of salted provisions, which he had purchased from the master of a ship riding in this cove, entrusted it to the care of two people his servants, to convey it from his farm to that of a neighbouring settler. The temptation was too great to be resisted, and the cask was stolen out of the boat, while the servants landed for the night at some farm by the way. They pretended to have no concern in it; but as that was too improbable to be believed, they were ordered to make restitution by their labour.

Several bold thefts took place earlier this month. William Waring, a prisoner who had been allowed to work a thirty-acre farm on the banks of the Hawkesbury, needed to move a cask of salted provisions he bought from the captain of a ship docked in this cove. He entrusted it to two of his servants to take it from his farm to a nearby settler's place. The temptation was too strong to resist, and the cask was stolen from the boat while the servants stopped for the night at another farm along the way. They claimed they had nothing to do with it, but their story was too unlikely to be believed, so they were ordered to repay the theft through their work.

About the same time the brick hut occupied by Thomas Clark, a superintendant of convicts, was broken into; and, notwithstanding the door of the room in which he slept with his wife was open, they plundered the house of several articles to a great amount.

About the same time, the brick hut where Thomas Clark, a superintendent of convicts, lived was broken into; and even though the door to the room where he slept with his wife was open, they stole several valuable items from the house.

Some runaways from the jail gang at this place were suspected; and our watch, being dispatched immediately on receipt of this information, were very near falling in with the thieves; but these latter descried them in time to make their escape. Information being afterwards received, that two runaway vagabonds were concealed at a house near the brick-fields, some of the watch repaired to the spot, and found two notorious offenders, James McManus and George Collins. These two people had repeatedly broken out of the jall-hut, and one of them, McManus, had some time since been fired at and wounded in an attempt to commit a burglary. On the present occasion, he had sufficient address to effect his escape from the watch; the other was secured and brought in. The hut in which they were found was pulled down the following morning, to deter others (if possible) from harbouring thieves and vagabonds.

Some runaways from the jail gang here were suspected, and our watch, who were sent out immediately after getting this information, almost caught the thieves. However, the thieves spotted them in time and managed to escape. Later, we received information that two runaway criminals were hiding at a house near the brick fields. Some members of the watch went there and found two well-known offenders, James McManus and George Collins. These two had broken out of the jail hut multiple times, and McManus had previously been shot and wounded while trying to commit a burglary. This time, he was clever enough to escape from the watch, while the other one was captured and brought in. The hut where they were found was torn down the next morning to discourage others from hiding thieves and criminals.

The settlers in the different districts, and particularly those at the Hawkesbury, had long been supposed to be considerably in debt; and it was suspected, that their crops for two or more seasons to come were pledged to pay these debts. As this was an evil of great magnitude, the governor set on foot such an inquiry as he thought would ascertain or contradict the report. By this inquiry, it appeared, that the settlers at the districts of Prospect Hill, the Ponds, the Field of Mars, the Eastern Farms, and Mulgrave Place on the banks of the river Hawkesbury, stood indebted in the sum of £5098. The inquiry was farther directed as well to the appearance of the farms, and the general character of the settlers, as to their debts. Many were reported to be industrious and thriving; but a great number were stated to be idle, vicious, given to drinking, gaming, and other such disorders as lead to poverty and ruin. One man, a settler at the Eastern Farms, Edward Elliot, had received a ewe sheep from the late Governor Phillip before his departure in the year 1792. He had resisted many temptations to sell it, and at the time this inquiry took place was found possessing a stock of twenty-two sheep, males and females. He had been fortunate in not meeting with any loss, but had not added to his stock by any purchase. This was a proof that industry did not go without its reward in this country. Other instances were found to corroborate this observation.

The settlers in various districts, especially those at Hawkesbury, were long believed to be in significant debt; it was suspected that their crops for the next two seasons were promised to pay off these debts. Since this was a serious issue, the governor initiated an investigation to confirm or refute the report. The investigation revealed that the settlers in the Prospect Hill, the Ponds, the Field of Mars, the Eastern Farms, and Mulgrave Place along the Hawkesbury River owed a total of £5,098. The inquiry also looked into the condition of the farms and the overall character of the settlers, not just their debts. Many were reported to be hard-working and successful, but a considerable number were described as lazy, immoral, and prone to drinking, gambling, and other vices that lead to poverty and despair. One settler at the Eastern Farms, Edward Elliot, had received a ewe from the former Governor Phillip before his departure in 1792. He resisted numerous temptations to sell it, and by the time of the inquiry, he owned a flock of twenty-two sheep, both male and female. He had been fortunate not to incur any losses and had not expanded his flock through purchases. This demonstrated that hard work was indeed rewarded in this country. Other examples were found to support this observation.

At the settlement of the Hawkesbury one man had been drowned, and another killed by the natives.

At the Hawkesbury settlement, one man drowned, and another was killed by the locals.

The gentlemen who conducted the inquiry found most of the settlers there oftener employed in carousing in the fronts of their houses, than in labouring themselves, or superintending the labour of their servants in their grounds. There was at this time a considerable quantity of spirits in the colony from the Susan, the Britannia, and Indispensable, and no doubt much of it had found its way to the settlers; but that they could be so lost to their own true interests, could be only accounted for by recollecting their former habits of life, in which the frequent use of intoxicating liquors formed a part of their education.

The investigators found that most of the settlers were more often hanging out in front of their houses drinking rather than working themselves or overseeing the work of their servants on their land. At that time, there was a significant amount of alcohol in the colony from the Susan, the Britannia, and Indispensable, and it's clear that a lot of it ended up with the settlers. However, their inability to recognize what was truly in their best interests could only be understood by remembering their previous lifestyle, where the regular consumption of alcohol was part of their upbringing.

With a view to check the drunkenness that prevailed in the different districts, the governor had directed licences for retailing spirituous liquors to be given to certain deserving characters in each; but it was not found to answer the effect he expected. Instead of the settlers being disposed to industry, they still indulged themselves in inebriety and idleness, and robberies now appeared to be committed more frequently than formerly. He therefore judged it necessary to direct, that none of those persons who had obtained licences should presume to carry on a traffic with settlers or others who might have grain to dispose of, by paying for such grain in spirits. He assured them, that should any persons he thereafter discovered to have carried on so destructive a trade, their licences would immediately be recalled, and such steps taken for their further punishment as they might be thought to deserve. He also desired it might be understood, that trading with spirits to the extent which he found practised was strictly forbidden to others, as well as to those who had licensed public houses.

To address the issue of excessive drinking in different areas, the governor instructed that licenses for selling alcohol be granted to certain deserving individuals in each district. However, this did not achieve the desired results. Instead of encouraging the settlers to work, they continued to engage in drinking and idleness, and thefts became more common than before. He then deemed it necessary to prohibit anyone with a license from trading with settlers or others who might have grain by paying for it with alcohol. He made it clear that anyone caught engaging in this harmful trade would have their licenses revoked and face further consequences as appropriate. He also wanted it to be understood that the trade of alcohol to the extent he observed was strictly prohibited for everyone, including those who operated licensed establishments.

The practice of purchasing the crops of the settlers for spirits had too long prevailed in the settlement; and the governor thought it absolutely necessary, by all the means in his power, to put an end to it; for it was not possible that a farmer who should be idle enough to throw away the labour of twelve months, for the gratification of a few gallons of poisonous spirits, could expect to thrive, or enjoy those comforts which were only to be procured by sobriety and industry. From such characters he determined to withdraw the assistance of government, since when left to themselves they would have less time to waste in drunkenness and riot.

The practice of buying settlers' crops for alcohol had gone on for too long in the settlement, and the governor believed it was crucial, by any means necessary, to put a stop to it. A farmer who was careless enough to waste a year's hard work just for a few gallons of harmful booze could not expect to succeed or enjoy the comforts that only come from being sober and hardworking. He decided to withdraw government support from such individuals, believing that if they were left to their own devices, they would have less time to waste on drinking and disorder.

In the night of the 19th of this month some thieves broke into the house of William Miller, (a young man who, on account of his good behaviour, had been allowed to exercise the trade of a baker,) and stole articles to the amount of fifty-six pounds, mostly property not belonging to himself. Suspicion falling upon some people off the store, they were apprehended; but in the morning the greater part of what had been stolen was found placed in a garden where it could be easily discovered, and restored to the owner.

On the night of the 19th of this month, some thieves broke into William Miller's house. He was a young man who had been allowed to work as a baker because of his good behavior. They stole items worth fifty-six pounds, most of which didn’t belong to him. Suspicion fell on a few people near the store, and they were caught. However, by morning, most of the stolen items were found hidden in a garden where they were easy to spot, and were returned to the owner.

On the day following, the governor, with a small party, undertook a second excursion to the retreat of the cattle. A few days previous to the governor's departure, Mr. Bass, the surgeon of the Reliance, and two companions, set off in an attempt to round the mountains to the westward; but having soon attained the summit of the highest, they saw at the distance of forty or fifty miles another range of mountains, extending to the northward and southward. Mr. Bass reported, that he passed over some very fine land, and he brought in some specimens of a light wood which he met with.

The next day, the governor, along with a small group, went on another trip to the cattle retreat. A few days before the governor left, Mr. Bass, the surgeon of the Reliance, and two friends set out to navigate around the mountains to the west. However, after reaching the top of the highest peak, they saw another mountain range about forty to fifty miles away, stretching north and south. Mr. Bass reported that he crossed some really nice land and brought back some samples of a light wood he found.

The governor was not long absent. He saw the cattle ranging as before, although not exactly in the same spot, in the finest country yet discovered in New South Wales, and ascended a hill which from every point of view had appeared the highest in our neighbourhood. He fixed, by means of an artificial horizon, its latitude to be 341 09 minutes S nine miles to the southward of Botany Bay. The height of this hill, which obtained the name of Mount Hunter, was supposed to be near a mile from the base; and the view from the summit was commanding, and full of grand objects, wood, water, plains, and mountains. Every where on that side of the Nepean, the soil was found to be good, and the ground eligible for cultivation. The sides of Mount Hunter, though very steep, were clothed with timber to the summit, and the ground filled with the Orchis root.

The governor wasn't gone for long. He saw the cattle grazing as before, although not exactly in the same spot, in the best country yet discovered in New South Wales, and climbed a hill that looked the highest from every angle in our area. By using an artificial horizon, he determined its latitude to be 34°09' S, nine miles south of Botany Bay. The height of this hill, which was named Mount Hunter, was estimated to be nearly a mile from the base; and the view from the top was impressive, featuring grand sights of woods, water, plains, and mountains. Everywhere on that side of the Nepean, the soil was found to be good, and the land suitable for farming. The slopes of Mount Hunter, although very steep, were covered with trees up to the summit, and the ground was filled with Orchis root.

The knowledge derived from this excursion was, that the cattle had not been disturbed, and that they had increased; ninety-four were at this time counted.

The knowledge gained from this trip showed that the cattle hadn't been disturbed and that their numbers had grown; ninety-four were counted at that time.

About the same time the people of a fishing-boat returned from a bay near Port Stephens, into which they had been driven by bad weather, and brought in with them several large pieces of coal, which they said they found at some little distance from the beach, lying in considerable quantity on the surface of the ground. These people having conducted themselves improperly, while on shore, two of them were severely wounded by the natives, one of whom died soon after he reached the hospital.

About the same time, the crew of a fishing boat came back from a bay near Port Stephens, where they had been forced to retreat due to bad weather. They brought with them several large pieces of coal that they claimed to have found a short distance from the beach, lying in large quantities on the surface. Unfortunately, these individuals behaved inappropriately while on land, and two of them were seriously injured by the locals, with one dying shortly after arriving at the hospital.

The Francis schooner sailed on the 21st with dispatches for Norfolk Island; the king's ships, the Reliance and Supply, began the necessary preparations for their intended voyage to the Cape of Good Hope, and the first day of September was fixed for their departure.

The Francis schooner left on the 21st with important messages for Norfolk Island; the king's ships, the Reliance and Supply, started getting ready for their planned trip to the Cape of Good Hope, with September 1st set as their departure date.

Toward the latter end of the month two men from each officer were ordered to join the public gangs, it being found wholly impracticable to erect without more assistance any of the buildings which had now become indispensably necessary. Storehouses were much wanted; the barracks were yet unfinished; houses were to be built for the assistant-surgeons, those which had been erected soon after our arrival being now no longer tenable. A church too, of more substantial materials than lath and plaster, was wanted here and at Parramatta; as well as court-houses, or places where the courts of civil and criminal judicature might be held, and where the magistrates might meet to do the public business.

Toward the end of the month, two men from each officer were ordered to join the public work gangs, as it was found completely unworkable to build any of the structures that had now become urgently needed without more help. There was a strong demand for storehouses; the barracks were still unfinished; and houses needed to be built for the assistant surgeons, as the ones that were put up shortly after our arrival were no longer livable. A church made of more solid materials than lath and plaster was also needed here and at Parramatta, along with courthouses or locations where civil and criminal courts could be held, and where magistrates could gather to conduct public business.

At Sydney, the bricklayers' gang was employed during this month in erecting a temporary court-house of lath and plaster; as it was uncertain when one to be built of bricks could be begun; and great inconvenience was felt by the judge-advocate and other magistrates in being obliged to transact business at their own houses.

At Sydney, the bricklayers' crew was busy this month building a temporary courthouse out of lath and plaster since it was unclear when a brick one could be started. This caused a lot of inconvenience for the judge-advocate and other magistrates, who had to handle business at their own homes.

We had at last the satisfaction of seeing usefully employed some of the cattle brought hither in the Endeavour. A careful person being found to conduct them, the timber-carriage was now, instead of men, drawn by six or eight stout oxen; and all the timber which was wanted for building, or other purposes, was brought to the pits by them, both here and at Parramatta. This was some saving of men, but eight people were still employed with each carriage.

We finally felt satisfied to see some of the cattle brought here on the Endeavour being put to good use. With a careful person to handle them, the timber carriage was now pulled by six or eight strong oxen instead of men, and all the timber needed for building or other purposes was delivered to the pits by them, both here and at Parramatta. This saved some manpower, but there were still eight people working with each carriage.

The carpenters continued erecting the temporary shed for provisions; the town gang was employed delivering the storeships; and at Toongabbie some women were employed in making hay, intended to be put on board the king's ships for the cattle to be purchased at the Cape for the colony.

The carpenters kept building the temporary shed for supplies; the town crew was busy unloading the supply ships; and at Toongabbie, some women were working on making hay, which was meant to be loaded onto the king's ships for the cattle that would be bought at the Cape for the colony.

One man, Matthew Farrel, died in this month. He had been hurt in an affray with some watchmen in the night of the 17th of March last.

One man, Matthew Farrel, died this month. He had been injured in a fight with some watchmen on the night of March 17th.

CHAPTER XXXII

Two men killed; new regulations put in place
The Britannia hired to head to England
Report from the local people
The Francis arrives from Norfolk Island
Public works
Deaths
A criminal court convened
A settler executed for murder
The Susan departs
A civil court held
An American ship arrives from Boston
A longboat lost
Deaths
Weather updates
A temporary church opened in Parramatta
Appointments
The Supply departs for Norfolk Island and the Cape
Stock report
Land under cultivation, and population numbers in the colony
A murder committed
Britannia departs for England
General observations

July.] Among the many evils that were daily seen flowing from that state of dissipation which had found its way into the different settlements, we had to regret that two men lost their lives by the hand of violence. On Tuesday the 4th of this month, John Smith, a seaman belonging to the Indispensable, was shot at Sydney in the house of Mr. Daniel Payne, the master boat-builder, by a convict-servant of his; and on the same day, at the Hawkesbury, David Lane was shot by his master, John Fenlow, a settler at that place. The latter of these unfortunate men lived but a few hours; Smith the seaman was taken to the hospital, where he languished until the 9th, and then died. Fenlow and the convict were taken into custody, and would have been immediately brought to trial; but, through the carelessness of one of the watchmen, Fenlow found means, though incumbered with heavy irons, to escape from the cells, and was not retaken until the latter end of the month, when some natives discovered him lurking near his own grounds at the river, and, giving information, he was easily apprehended and secured.

July. Among the many problems that were constantly arising from the state of chaos affecting the various settlements, we sadly noted that two men lost their lives to violence. On Tuesday, the 4th of this month, John Smith, a sailor from the Indispensable, was shot in Sydney at the home of Mr. Daniel Payne, the master boat-builder, by one of his convict servants; and on the same day, at Hawkesbury, David Lane was shot by his master, John Fenlow, a settler there. The latter of these unfortunate men survived only a few hours; Smith the sailor was taken to the hospital, where he lingered until the 9th, and then he died. Fenlow and the convict were taken into custody and would have been brought to trial immediately; however, due to the negligence of one of the watchmen, Fenlow managed to escape from the cells, despite being heavily shackled, and was not recaptured until the end of the month, when some locals found him hiding near his own property by the river, and, after informing the authorities, he was easily caught and secured.

These transactions were productive of some internal regulations which had long been wanting. Several settlers, with whose conduct the governor had had but too much cause to be displeased, were at length deprived of all assistance from government, and left to the exercise of their own abilities, pursuant to a notice which they received to that effect in the last month. Several other settlers also, who had been victualled from the public stores long beyond the period allowed them by the crown, were struck off from the victualling books. All persons off the stores, who of course did not labour for government, were ordered forthwith to appear at Sydney, in order to their being mustered and examined relative to their respective terms of transportation; when certificates were to be given to such as were regularly discharged from the commissary's books, and the settlers were directed not to employ any but such as could produce this certificate. Frequent visits were directed to be made by the magistrates, for the purpose of settling such differences as might arise among the settlers and other persons; and the governor signified his determination of inspecting their conduct himself from time to time, and of punishing such as were proved to afford shelter or employment to the thieves and vagabonds who ran to the river and other districts from this town and Parramatta.

These transactions led to some internal rules that had been needed for a long time. Several settlers, whose behavior the governor had good reason to be unhappy with, were finally cut off from all government support and were left to rely on their own skills, based on a notice they received about this last month. Other settlers, who had been receiving food from the public stores far longer than allowed by the crown, were removed from the victualling lists. All individuals off the stores, who naturally didn’t work for the government, were ordered to appear in Sydney immediately to be mustered and examined regarding their transportation terms; those who were properly discharged from the commissary's records would receive certificates, and the settlers were instructed not to employ anyone who couldn’t provide this certificate. Magistrates were directed to make frequent visits to resolve any disputes that might arise among the settlers and others, and the governor expressed his intention to personally inspect their behavior from time to time and to punish anyone found harboring or employing thieves and vagabonds who fled to the river and other areas from this town and Parramatta.

These regulations being made known as publicly and generally as was possible, in order that none might plead ignorance, the town of Sydney was shortly filled with people from the different settlements, who came to the judge-advocate for certificates of their having served their respective sentences. Among these were many who had run away from public labour before their time had expired; some who had escaped from confinement with crimes yet unpunished hanging over their heads; and some who, being for life, appeared by names different from those by which they were commonly known in the settlement. By the activity of the watchmen, and a minute investigation of the necessary books and papers, they were in general detected in the imposition, and were immediately sent to hard labour in the town and jail gangs.

These regulations were made public as widely as possible so that no one could claim ignorance. Soon, the town of Sydney was filled with people from various settlements who came to the judge-advocate for certificates confirming they had served their sentences. Among them were many who had run away from public work before completing their time; some who had escaped from confinement with unresolved crimes hanging over them; and others who, serving life sentences, appeared under names different from those they were commonly known by in the settlement. Thanks to the vigilance of the watchmen and a thorough review of the necessary books and papers, most were caught in their deception and were quickly sent to do hard labor in the town and jail gangs.

To the latter of these gangs additions were every day making; scarcely a day or a night passed but some enormity was committed or attempted either on the property or persons of individuals. Two notorious characters, Luke Normington and Richard Elliott, were detected on the night of the 13th in a very suspicious situation in the commissary's stock-yard, which was well filled at the time with sheep and other stock. These were sent to the jail-gang, in company with one Sharpless, a convict, who, after marrying a woman that was a perfect antidote to desire, pretended to be jealous, and gave her such a dreadful beating, that her life was for some time in danger.

To the latter of these gangs, new additions were being made daily; hardly a day or night went by without some crime being committed or attempted against individuals or their property. Two notorious figures, Luke Normington and Richard Elliott, were caught on the night of the 13th in a very suspicious situation in the commissary's stockyard, which was packed at the time with sheep and other livestock. They were sent to jail along with a convict named Sharpless, who, after marrying a woman who was the perfect cure for desire, pretended to be jealous and gave her such a brutal beating that her life was in danger for some time.

Stock of all denominations was at this time fast increasing in the different districts. An officer of the New South Wales corps, having obtained the governor's sanction for his quitting the colony in one of the ships now preparing for the Cape of Good Hope, sold to government a flock of goats, consisting of about one hundred animals, for £490 10s. This was a valuable acquisition, and promises of stock to several deserving settlers were now performed.

Stock of all types was rapidly increasing in different areas at this time. An officer from the New South Wales corps, having received the governor's approval to leave the colony on one of the ships being prepared for the Cape of Good Hope, sold the government a flock of goats, totaling about one hundred animals, for £490 10s. This was a significant addition, and commitments of stock to several deserving settlers were now fulfilled.

The Britannia, being now cleared of the cargo she brought from Bengal on government account, was fitting again for sea, when Mr. Raven, the master, proffered her to the governor for the purpose of going direct to England, if his excellency should have any occasion to employ her in such a voyage. There were at this time several soldiers in the New South Wales corps wholly unfit for service; the governor had for some time intended to send home Mr. Clark, a superintendant of convicts, whose engagement with the crown had expired; and James Thorp, a person who had been sent out with a salary of £105 per annum. as a master millwright, but who was at this time unemployed in the settlement. To ease government at once of these expences, the governor thought it adviseable to charter the Britannia, for the purpose of taking home such invalids and passengers as might be ordered, at the rate of fifteen shillings per ton per month; the charter to be in force on the first day of the ensuing month.

The Britannia, having unloaded the cargo she brought from Bengal for the government, was being prepared for sea again when Mr. Raven, the captain, offered her to the governor for a direct voyage to England, should his excellency need her for such a trip. At that time, several soldiers in the New South Wales corps were unfit for service; the governor had been planning for a while to send home Mr. Clark, a convict superintendent, whose contract with the crown had ended; and James Thorp, a master millwright who had come with an annual salary of £105, but was currently unemployed in the settlement. To help reduce government expenses, the governor thought it best to charter the Britannia to take home any invalids and passengers that might be ordered, at a rate of fifteen shillings per ton per month; the charter would start on the first day of the following month.

The public stores were opened during this month at Parramatta and the river for receiving Indian corn; which was taken in at five shillings per bushel for this season; but it was generally supposed, that there would not be occasion to give that price for it again.

The public stores opened this month at Parramatta and the river to accept Indian corn, which was taken in at five shillings per bushel for this season; however, it was widely believed that there wouldn’t be a need to pay that price again.

Fresh pork was at this time purchased by the commissary at one shilling per pound, and issued as a ration, in the proportion of two pounds of fresh for one of salt meat.

Fresh pork was then bought by the commissary for one shilling per pound and distributed as a ration, at a rate of two pounds of fresh for every one pound of salt meat.

It having been represented to the governor, that several people in the town of Sydney employed themselves in building boats for sale, and without obtaining any permission, a liberty which had crept into the settlement in opposition to all former orders and regulations on that head; and as it was well known that, notwithstanding the great convenience which must attend the having boats for various uses in this extensive harbour, many abuses were carried on through their means; it was ordered, that no boat whatever, of any size or description, should be built until applicationhad been made to the governor, and permission in writing obtained, either signed by the governor for the time being, or by some person properly authorised by him. It was also ordered, that all boats at that time in the possession of individuals should be forthwith taken to the master boat-builder, where a number was to be cut on the stern, and a register of such number was to be kept by the provost-marshal. All boats found without a number were to be liable to seizure.

It was brought to the governor's attention that several people in Sydney were building boats for sale without permission, a practice that had become common in the settlement despite previous orders and regulations against it. While having boats for various uses in this large harbor was certainly convenient, there were many abuses connected to them. Therefore, it was ordered that no boat of any size or type could be built until a request had been made to the governor and written permission obtained, either signed by the current governor or by someone authorized by him. It was also ordered that all boats currently owned by individuals must be taken immediately to the master boat-builder, where a number would be marked on the stern, and a register of those numbers would be maintained by the provost-marshal. Any boats found without a number would be subject to seizure.

The natives appeared less troublesome lately than they had been for some time past. The people of a fishing-boat, which had been cast on shore in some bad weather near Port Stephens, met with some of these people, who without much entreaty, or any hope of reward, readily put them into a path from thence to Broken Bay, and conducted them the greatest part of the way. During their little journey, these friendly people made them understand, that they had seen a white woman among some natives to the northward. On their reporting this at Sydney, this unfortunate female was conjectured to be Mary Morgan, a prisoner, who it was now said had failed in her attempt to get on board the Resolution store-ship, which sailed from hence in 1794. There was indeed a woman, one Ann Smith, who ran away a few days after our sitting down in this place, and whose fate was not exactly ascertaineds; if she could have survived the hardships and wretchedness of such a life as must have been hers during so many years residence among the natives of New Holland, how much information must it have been in her power to afford! But humanity shuddered at the idea of purchasing it at so dear a price.

The locals have been less problematic recently than they had been for a while. A group from a fishing boat, which had been stranded during some bad weather near Port Stephens, encountered some of these locals. Without much persuasion or expectation of reward, they willingly showed the fishermen the way to Broken Bay and guided them for most of the journey. During their trip, these friendly locals indicated that they had seen a white woman among some natives to the north. When this was reported in Sydney, it was suspected that the unfortunate woman was Mary Morgan, a prisoner who, it was said, had failed in her attempt to board the Resolution store-ship that left from here in 1794. There was indeed a woman, Ann Smith, who escaped a few days after we settled here, and her fate was not clearly known; if she had managed to survive the hardships and struggles of such a life among the natives of New Holland for so many years, just imagine how much information she could have shared! But humanity recoiled at the thought of obtaining that knowledge at such a high cost.

Toward the latter end of the month, there not remaining any more flour in the store than what was necessarily reserved for the use of his Majesty's ships Reliance and Supply to carry them to the Cape of Good Hope, nine pounds of wheat were added to the allowance of that article (three pounds) served to the civil, military, and free people.

Toward the end of the month, there was no more flour in the store than what was needed for his Majesty's ships Reliance and Supply to take them to the Cape of Good Hope, so nine pounds of wheat were added to the three-pound allowance given to civilians, military personnel, and free citizens.

A court of civil judicature was held on the 27th and 28th, when several debts were sworn to, and writs taken out.

A civil court session took place on the 27th and 28th, during which several debts were confirmed under oath, and court orders were issued.

In the night of the 29th, the Francis schooner returned from Norfolk Island, having been absent five weeks and three days. From her we learned, that the criminal court of judicature had been assembled, and one man, a convict, had suffered death, being convicted of a most daring burglary, which he and two others his accomplices effected with some circumstances of cruelty. The accomplices were sentenced to hard labour on Phillip Island for a certain term of years.

In the night of the 29th, the Francis schooner returned from Norfolk Island, having been gone for five weeks and three days. From her, we learned that the criminal court had met, and one man, a convict, had been executed after being found guilty of a bold burglary, which he and two of his accomplices carried out with some brutal actions. The accomplices were sentenced to hard labor on Phillip Island for a specific number of years.

It was observed that the gangs at this place employed in different public works were seldom to be seen in the afternoon. On inquiry, it appeared that, notwithstanding the orders which had been given for the regulation of the public labour, the superintendants had taken it upon themselves to task the working people in such manner as they thought proper, and upon no other authority than their own will. By this abuse the work of government was almost wholly neglected, and the time of the labourers applied to the use of private individuals.

It was noticed that the gangs working on various public projects here were rarely seen in the afternoon. When questioned, it turned out that despite the orders for managing public labor, the supervisors decided how to assign tasks to the workers based solely on their own judgment. Because of this misuse, government work was largely ignored, and the workers' time was used for personal benefit of individuals.

To remedy this evil, the governor repeated the order in which the hours of public labour were pointed out, and informed the superintendants and overseers, that if they should be known to take the liberty of applying to any other use or purpose the time designed to be employed for the public, they would be instantly dismissed from their employments, as persons who could not be depended upon; and they might rest assured, that any one, who had been proved unworthy the trust he had placed in him, would never be restored to a situation of which he was so little tenacious.

To fix this issue, the governor reiterated the schedule for public work hours and informed the supervisors and overseers that if they were caught using that time for any other purpose, they would be fired immediately for being untrustworthy. They could be sure that anyone who had shown themselves unworthy of the trust given to them would never be reinstated to a position they clearly didn’t value.

During this month died Mr. Henry Brewer, the provost-marshal of the territory, at the age of fifty-seven years. He came out with Governor Phillip as his clerk, and on our landing was appointed to act as provost-marshal in the room of the person appointed by the crown, Mr. Alexander, who never came out. Mr. Brewer afterwards received his Majesty's commission appointing him to the vacancy. There also died Andrew Fishburn, a private in the New South Wales corps, but formerly belonging to the marine detachment serving in this country, who had been very useful as a carpenter in the settlement; a soldier, who came out in the Cornwallis; one male convict, who died suddenly; one unfortunate man, John Williams, who was crushed to death by the wheel of a timber-carriage going over his head; and the settler's servant who was killed at the Hawkesbury; beside the seaman belonging to the Indispensable who was shot.

During this month, Mr. Henry Brewer, the provost-marshal of the territory, passed away at the age of fifty-seven. He arrived with Governor Phillip as his clerk and was appointed to serve as provost-marshal in place of the crown's appointee, Mr. Alexander, who never came out. Mr. Brewer later received his Majesty's commission for the position. Also, Andrew Fishburn, a private in the New South Wales corps, who previously served in the marine detachment here and was very useful as a carpenter in the settlement, died; a soldier who came on the Cornwallis; one male convict who died suddenly; one unfortunate man, John Williams, who was crushed to death by the wheel of a timber carriage; and the settler's servant who was killed at the Hawkesbury, along with a seaman from the Indispensable who was shot.

August.] A court of criminal judicature was assembled early in the month for the trial of several offenders who were at that time in confinement under different charges.

August.] A criminal court was set up early in the month to try several offenders who were currently in custody on various charges.

Four prisoners were tried for a burglary in the house of William Miller, but acquitted through a defect in evidence. David Lloyd was tried for the wilful murder of John Smith, the seaman belonging to the ship Indispensable. It appeared, that the seaman had repaired in a state of intoxication to the house of Mr. Payne, for the express purpose of taking from a female convict, (then living as a servant at Mr. Payne's, and with whom he, the seaman, had cohabited during the passage) some clothes which he had given her. A riot, the natural consequence of such a proceeding, ensued; and the prisoner endeavoured to make it appear that he had been compelled in his own defence to fire the pistol which caused the death of the seaman. The court admitted that the prisoner had not any of that malice in his heart against the deceased which is necessary to constitute the crime of murder, and therefore acquitted him of that charge; but found him guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced him to receive six hundred lashes. John Fenlow was tried for the wilful murder of his servant, David Lane. This charge was fully made out, and the prisoner received sentence to die. Matthew Farrel, who (with Richard Sutton, the Newgate Bully) assaulted the watch on the night of the 17th of March last, having in the course of that contest received a wound on the temple which proved incurable, and occasioned his death some time after, the watchmen were now brought forward to account for the death of the deceased. This they did very satisfactorily, and were discharged. Four vagabonds, who had repeatedly broken out of prison, and run away from the jall-gang, were tried as incorrigible rogues, and being found guilty, were sentenced to three years hard labour at Norfolk Island; and one man was tried for a rape, but acquitted. Fenlow, being tried on the Saturday, was executed on the following Monday. His body being delivered to the surgeons for dissection pursuant to his sentence, a stone was found in his gall bladder, of the size of a lark's egg. This unhappy man was remarkable for an extreme irascibility of temper: might it not have been occasioned by the torment that such a substance must produce in so irritable a situation? He however, the night before his execution, confessed that the murder which he committed was premeditated. Notwithstanding which, he had, the day before he was tried, prepared an opening through the brick wall of his cell, purposing, if it had not been discovered in time, to have availed himself of it to escape after his trial. It could scarcely be supposed, that among the description of people of which the lower class was formed in this place, any would have been found sufficiently curious to have attended the surgeons on such an occasion; but they had no sooner signified that the body was ready for inspection, than the hospital was filled with people, men, women, and children, to the number of several hundreds; none of whom appeared moved with pity for his fate, or in the least degree admonished by the sad spectacle before their eyes.

Four prisoners were tried for breaking into William Miller's house but were acquitted due to a flaw in the evidence. David Lloyd was tried for the intentional murder of John Smith, a sailor from the ship Indispensable. It turned out that the sailor had gone to Mr. Payne's house while drunk, intending to take back some clothes he had given to a female convict living there, with whom he had been involved during their journey. A riot broke out as a result, and the accused tried to argue that he had to shoot the pistol in self-defense, which led to the sailor’s death. The court concluded that the accused lacked the malicious intent necessary for a murder charge, so he was acquitted of that but found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to six hundred lashes. John Fenlow was tried for intentionally murdering his servant, David Lane. This charge was proven, and the prisoner was sentenced to death. Matthew Farrel, along with Richard Sutton, attacked the watchmen on the night of March 17. Farrel received a fatal wound in the altercation, so the watchmen were called in to explain his death. They did so satisfactorily and were released. Four repeat offenders who had escaped from prison were tried as incorrigible rogues and sentenced to three years of hard labor on Norfolk Island. Another man was tried for rape but acquitted. Fenlow, tried on Saturday, was executed the following Monday. After his body was handed over to the surgeons for dissection, a stone the size of a lark's egg was found in his gallbladder. This unfortunate man was known for having a terrible temper—could it have been due to the pain caused by such a condition? The night before his execution, he admitted that the murder was planned. However, the day before his trial, he had also made an escape route through the brick wall of his cell, intending to use it if he hadn’t been discovered in time. It’s hard to believe that, among the lower class people in this area, anyone would have been curious enough to watch the surgeons during such an event. Yet, as soon as they announced that the body was ready for inspection, hundreds of people—men, women, and children—filled the hospital, with none showing any pity for his fate or being affected by the grim sight before them.

On Monday the 8th the snow Susan sailed on her voyage to Canton. Two women, Sarah Nitchell and Elizabeth Robinson, and a few men, were allowed to quit the colony in this vessel.

On Monday the 8th, the ship Susan set sail on her journey to Canton. Two women, Sarah Nitchell and Elizabeth Robinson, along with a few men, were permitted to leave the colony on this vessel.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's birthday was duly distinguished by us on the 12th of this month. Such days had never been neglected by the colonists of New South Wales.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's birthday was properly celebrated by us on the 12th of this month. The colonists of New South Wales have always honored such days.

A civil court was again held on the day following, when several persons who had been arrested by writs issued from the last court were brought up; many of whom, being settlers, gave assignments on their coming crops of wheat for the different sums in which they were indebted. Several other debts were sworn to, and writs issued. Had those defendants who were thus suffered to give assignments on their crops then in the ground been thrown into prison at the suit of the different plaintiffs, their ruin would have been certain, and the debt would have remained unsatisfied. This method was tried, as being something more beneficial to both parties; but they were in general of such a thoughtless worthless description, that even this indulgence might induce them to be, if possible, more worthless and thoughtless than before, as, to use their own expression, they had now 'to work for a dead horse.'

A civil court was held again the next day, where several people who had been arrested by writs issued from the last court were brought in. Many of them, being settlers, offered assignments on their upcoming wheat crops to cover the different amounts they owed. Several other debts were sworn to, and writs were issued. If those defendants who were allowed to assign their crops that were still in the ground had been thrown in jail at the request of the various plaintiffs, they would have certainly faced ruin, and the debt would have gone unpaid. This approach was tried because it was seen as more beneficial for both parties; however, most of them were such thoughtless and irresponsible individuals that even this leniency might encourage them to become even more irresponsible and thoughtless than before, as they put it, since they now had to "work for a dead horse."

On the 23rd (the signal for a sail having been made at the South Head, the day before), there anchored in the stream, just without the two points of Sydney Cove, the ship Grand Turk, from Boston, after a passage of five months from that port. She had been twenty-three days from Van Dieman's Land, meeting with a current, during several days, that set her each day twenty-one miles either to the SE or NE. We found on board as supercargo, Mr. McGee, who was here before in the Halcyon with Mr. Benjamin Page. He brought news from Europe as late as January last, by which we learned that the war still raged. Mr. McGee had on board for sale, spirits, tobacco, wine, soap, iron, linseed oil, broadcloth, etc., etc., for this market, Manilla, and Canton. The tobacco (eighteen hogsheads) were immediately bought for one shilling and three half-pence per pound, and government purchased some of his spirits at seven shillings per gallon.

On the 23rd (the signal for a sail had been given at the South Head the day before), the ship Grand Turk, from Boston, anchored in the stream just outside the two points of Sydney Cove after a five-month journey from that port. She had spent twenty-three days from Van Diemen's Land, encountering a current that pushed her twenty-one miles each day to either the SE or NE. On board as supercargo was Mr. McGee, who had previously been here on the Halcyon with Mr. Benjamin Page. He brought news from Europe as recent as last January, informing us that the war was still ongoing. Mr. McGee had for sale various goods, including spirits, tobacco, wine, soap, iron, linseed oil, broadcloth, and more, intended for this market, Manilla, and Canton. The tobacco (eighteen hogsheads) was quickly purchased for one shilling and three half-pence per pound, and the government bought some of his spirits for seven shillings per gallon.

During this month a long-boat belonging to his Majesty's ship Reliance, which had been sent to Botany Bay in July to procure fish, was given up for lost, with five or six seamen. They were known to have quitted Botany Bay, and, not having been heard of for some weeks, were conjectured to have taken the boat away to the northward, where, being without compass or provisions, except the few fish they had caught, it was more than probable they had perished.

During this month, a longboat from His Majesty's ship Reliance, which had been sent to Botany Bay in July to catch fish, was declared lost along with five or six crew members. They were known to have left Botany Bay, and since there had been no word from them for several weeks, it was assumed they had taken the boat northward. Without a compass or supplies, except for the few fish they had caught, it was likely they had perished.

The jail-gang at this time, notwithstanding the examples which had been made, consisted of upwards of twenty-five persons; and many of the female prisoners were found to be every whit as infamous as the men.

The jail gang at this time, despite the examples that had been set, had more than twenty-five people; and many of the female prisoners turned out to be just as notorious as the men.

One settler was executed this month, and one soldier lost his life by a tree falling on him at the Hawkesbury.

One settler was executed this month, and one soldier died when a tree fell on him at the Hawkesbury.

The first and middle parts of the month were wet. The branch of the harbour named Duck River was so swollen as to overflow its banks, which were very steep.

The first and middle parts of the month were rainy. The section of the harbor called Duck River was so flooded that it overflowed its steep banks.

September.] A temporary church, formed out of the materials of two old huts, was opened at Parramatta by the Rev. Mr. Marsden on the first Sunday in this month. Decent places of worship were now to be seen at the two principal settlements. At the time when we were visited by the Spanish ships Mr. Johnson preached wherever he could find a shady spot. The priest belonging to the commodore's ship, observing that we had not any church built, lifted up his eyes with astonishment, and declared, that had the place been settled by his nation, a house for God would have been erected before any house for man.

September.] A temporary church, made from the materials of two old huts, was opened at Parramatta by Rev. Mr. Marsden on the first Sunday of this month. Now there were decent places of worship at the two main settlements. When the Spanish ships visited us, Mr. Johnson preached wherever he could find a shady spot. The priest from the commodore's ship, noticing that we didn’t have any church built, looked up in astonishment and declared that if his nation had settled the place, a house for God would have been built before any house for people.

The ships being now on the point of sailing, the Britannia for England, and the Relianc and Supply for the Cape of Good Hope, the following appointments were notified in the public orders: viz Captain George Johnston, of the New South Wales corps, was appointed aid-de-camp to the governor. The Rev. Mr. Johnson and William Balmain Esq were nominated the acting magistrates in the district of the town of Sydney. Mr. James Williamson (a gentleman who came from England with the governor) was to do the duty of commissary in the absence of Mr. Palmer, who was returning to England on leave. Mr. Thomas Smyth was appointed provost-marshal, in the room of Mr. Henry Brewer, by warrant bearing date the day after his decease. Mr. Thomas Moore, carpenter of the ship Britannia, was appointed master boat-builder in the room of Mr. Daniel Payne. William Stephenson was placed under the commissary as a store-keeper, in the room of Mr. Thomas Smyth; and George Barrington, whose conduct, still uniform and upright, recommended him to the notice of the governor, was, after receiving an absolute pardon under the seal of the territory, appointed a superintendant of convicts, with a salary of fifty pounds per annum, in the room of Mr. Thomas Clark, returning to England.*

The ships were about to set sail, with the Britannia heading to England and the Reliance and Supply going to the Cape of Good Hope. The following appointments were announced in the public orders: viz Captain George Johnston of the New South Wales corps was appointed as aide-de-camp to the governor. The Rev. Mr. Johnson and William Balmain Esq were named acting magistrates in the Sydney area. Mr. James Williamson (a gentleman who traveled from England with the governor) would take on the role of commissary during Mr. Palmer’s leave back to England. Mr. Thomas Smyth was appointed as provost-marshal, replacing Mr. Henry Brewer, by warrant issued the day after his death. Mr. Thomas Moore, carpenter of the ship Britannia, was made master boat-builder in place of Mr. Daniel Payne. William Stephenson was assigned under the commissary as a storekeeper, replacing Mr. Thomas Smyth; and George Barrington, whose consistent and upright behavior had caught the governor’s attention, was appointed superintendent of convicts after receiving an absolute pardon, with a salary of fifty pounds per year, taking over from Mr. Thomas Clark, who was returning to England.*

[* Mr. Richard Atkins had some time before been nominated by the secretary of state to do the duty of judge-advocate, whenever Captain Collins should return to England.]

[* Mr. Richard Atkins had previously been appointed by the secretary of state to serve as judge-advocate whenever Captain Collins returned to England.]

On the 20th, his Majesty's ship Supply sailed for Norfolk Island and the Cape of Good Hope, having on board part of the military relief intended for that settlement, and part of a thousand bushels of wheat which had been written for from thence.

On the 20th, his Majesty's ship Supply set sail for Norfolk Island and the Cape of Good Hope, carrying some of the military reinforcements meant for that settlement, along with part of a thousand bushels of wheat that had been requested from there.

On the following day the ships Indispensable and Grand Turk sailed for Canton. The American had not succeeded in his speculation so well as he had expected; the market was over-stocked with goods, and by the governor's regulations he was compelled to take away, with many other articles, his ground-tier full of spirits, which he hoped to have sold here.

On the next day, the ships Indispensable and Grand Turk set sail for Canton. The American didn't do as well with his investments as he had hoped; the market was flooded with goods, and because of the governor's regulations, he had to leave behind, along with many other items, his entire shipment of spirits that he had planned to sell here.

The invalids and passengers who were returning to England in the Britannia being embarked, that ship, the Reliance, and the Francis schooner, hauled out of the cove preparatory to their departure.

The invalids and passengers returning to England on the Britannia boarded, and then that ship, the Reliance, and the Francis schooner left the cove to get ready for their departure.

As a proof that stock was not falling in its value, Mr. Palmer, the commissary, sold two Cape cows and one steer for £189 sterling. The stock in the colony at this time was of considerable extent and value, as will appear by the following account of it, which was taken for the purpose of being transmitted to government:

As proof that the stock wasn't losing value, Mr. Palmer, the commissary, sold two Cape cows and one steer for £189 sterling. The stock in the colony at that time was quite extensive and valuable, as will be shown in the following account, which was prepared to be sent to the government:

ACCOUNT OF LIVE STOCK IN THE POSSESSION OF GOVERNMENT AND THE CIVIL
AND MILITARY OFFICERS OF THE SETTLEMENT, ON THE 1ST OF SEPTEMBER 1796
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To whom           Mares   Cows        Bulls       Oxen Sheep Goats Hogs
belonging         and     and         and
                  Horses  Cow-calves  Bull-calves
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To government      14      67          37          46   191   111   59
Officers
civil and military 43      34          37           6  1310  1176  889
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total of government
and officers       57     101          74          52  1501  1287  948
To settlers         -       -           -           -    30   140  921
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
General total      57     101          74          52  1531  1427 1869
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

ACCOUNT OF LIVESTOCK IN POSSESSION OF GOVERNMENT AND THE CIVIL AND MILITARY OFFICERS OF THE SETTLEMENT, ON SEPTEMBER 1, 1796  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------  
To whom           Mares   Cows        Bulls       Oxen Sheep Goats Hogs  
belonging         and     and         and  
                  Horses  Cow-calves  Bull-calves  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------  
To government      14      67          37          46   191   111   59  
Officers  
civil and military 43      34          37           6  1310  1176  889  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------  
Total of government  
and officers       57     101          74          52  1501  1287  948  
To settlers         -       -           -           -    30   140  921  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------  
General total      57     101          74          52  1531  1427  1869  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The wild cattle to the westward of the river Nepean were not included in this account.

The wild cattle west of the Nepean River weren't included in this account.

All kinds of poultry were numerous.

All kinds of poultry were plentiful.

The following account of the land in cultivation was taken at
the same time:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To whom belonging   Land in       Observations
                    Cultivation
                     (Acres)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To government               1700 (By our weakness in public labourers,
                                 (and wanting many necessary buildings,
                                 (the land cleared by government was
                                 (unemployed this year.
Officers civil and military 1172 (About four fifths of which were at
                                 (this time sown with wheat.

Total of government
and officers                2872

To settlers                 2547 {Of which much timber was cut down
                                 {but not burnt off.
   General total            5419

The following account of the cultivated land was recorded at the same time:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Owner                     Land in       Observations
                           Cultivation
                            (Acres)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To government               1700 (Due to our lack of public laborers,
                                 (and needing many essential buildings,
                                 (the land cleared by the government was
                                 (unused this year.
Civil and military officers   1172 (About four fifths of this was
                                 (currently sown with wheat.

Total for government
and officers                2872

To settlers                 2547 {Much timber was cut down
                                 {but not burned off.
   General total            5419

It was satisfactory to those gentlemen who were now about to quit the colony to reflect that they left it not only with a prospect of plenty before it, but with stores and granaries abundantly filled at the time. Of these, the judge-advocate and the commissary, who had been in the settlement from its establishment, had witnessed periods of distress and difficulty; but they had the gratification of seeing them fairly surmounted, and the probability of their ever recurring thrown to a very great distance. In the houses of individuals were to be found most of the comforts, and not a few of the luxuries of life. For these the island was indebted to the communications it had had with India, and other parts of the world; and the former years of famine, toil, and difficulty, were now exchanged for years of plenty, ease, and pleasure.

It was satisfying for those gentlemen who were about to leave the colony to think that they were departing with not only a promising future ahead but also with stores and granaries fully stocked at that time. Among them, the judge-advocate and the commissary, who had been in the settlement since its beginnings, had witnessed times of hardship and struggle; however, they took pleasure in seeing those challenges overcome, and the likelihood of them returning pushed far into the future. In the homes of individuals, most of the comforts and quite a few of the luxuries of life could be found. The island owed this to its connections with India and other parts of the world; the earlier years of famine, hard work, and difficulties were now replaced with years of abundance, ease, and enjoyment.

The Brick Field, or High Road to Parramatta.

The following state of the settlement was made up to the 31st of last month:

The following status of the settlement was updated as of the 31st of last month:

SALT PROVISIONS AND GRAIN IN STORE.

Quality                 To last at the established ration
                                Weeks      Days
Beef                              31        1
Pork                              44        6

Total of salt meat               76        0 (75 weeks + 7 days)

Peas                              22        -
Wheat                             29        1
Maize                             41        4
Sugar                              4        -

To consume this quantity of food,
there were victualled at Sydney                2219 persons
At Parramatta                                  965
At the Hawkesbury                              454
Making a total of                             3638

SALT PROVISIONS AND GRAIN IN STORE.

Quality                 To last at the established ration  
                                Weeks      Days  
Beef                              31        1  
Pork                              44        6  

Total of salt meat               76        0 (75 weeks + 7 days)  

Peas                              22        -  
Wheat                             29        1  
Maize                             41        4  
Sugar                              4        -  

To consume this quantity of food,  
there were supplied at Sydney                2219 people  
At Parramatta                                  965  
At the Hawkesbury                              454  
Making a total of                             3638

There were 321 people off the public stores, which, added to the 3638 who were victualled, gave a general total of 3959 persons in the different settlements, of all descriptions and ages; not including those at Norfolk Island, in which settlement were 119 persons; to which add 3959 persons in New South Wales; there will be found 4848 persons under the British government in New South Wales and its dependencies.

There were 321 people from the public stores, which, when combined with the 3,638 who were fed, made a total of 3,959 individuals across various settlements, of all types and ages. This does not include those on Norfolk Island, where there were 119 people. If we add the 3,959 individuals in New South Wales, we find there are 4,848 people under British rule in New South Wales and its territories.

A few days previous to the sailing of the ships, information was received of a most inhuman murder having been perpetrated on the body of ---- Williams, a settler's wife, at the district of the Ponds. A female neighbour of their's was accused by an accomplice of having committed this diabolical act, for the purpose of enriching herself with the property which she knew this unfortunate woman had in the house. She was immediately apprehended, and search made for the property which had been taken away. Some of this was found, and there was little doubt but the avenging arm of Justice would soon fall upon the head of the murderer.

A few days before the ships sailed, news came in about a horrific murder of ---- Williams, a settler's wife, in the Ponds district. A female neighbor was accused by an accomplice of committing this terrible act to steal the property she knew the victim had in her home. She was quickly arrested, and a search was conducted for the stolen items. Some of the property was recovered, and there was little doubt that Justice would soon catch up with the murderer.

On the 29th his Majesty's ship Reliance, the Britannia hired transport, and the Francis schooner, sailed from Port Jackson. They were all to touch at Norfolk Island, whence the ships were to proceed to the Cape of Good Hope, and the schooner was to return to New South Wales. The Britannia's call at Norfolk Island was for the purpose of taking on board lieutenant-governor King, who, from a long state of ill health, had found himself compelled to apply to Governor Hunter for leave to return to England, to which the governor had consented.

On the 29th, His Majesty's ship Reliance, the chartered transport Britannia, and the Francis schooner set sail from Port Jackson. They were all scheduled to stop at Norfolk Island, from where the ships would head to the Cape of Good Hope, and the schooner would return to New South Wales. The Britannia stopped at Norfolk Island to pick up Lieutenant-Governor King, who, after a long illness, had been forced to ask Governor Hunter for permission to return to England, which the governor had granted.

On board of the Reliance were the commissary, the remainder of the military relief, and such part of the thousand bushels of wheat as the Supply did not receive. In the transport were Captain Paterson; Lieutenants Abbott and Clephan; one sergeant and seventeen privates (invalids) of the New South Wales corps, with their wives and children; the judge-advocate of the settlement, who was charged with dispatches from the governor; Mr. Leeds, an assistant-surgeon; Thomas Clark, late a superintendant of convicts; James Thorp, the master millwright; and several other persons, male and female, who had been allowed a passage to England by the governor.

On board the Reliance were the commissary, the rest of the military relief, and some of the thousand bushels of wheat that the Supply didn’t take. On the transport were Captain Paterson; Lieutenants Abbott and Clephan; one sergeant and seventeen privates (injured) from the New South Wales corps, along with their wives and children; the judge-advocate of the settlement, who was carrying dispatches from the governor; Mr. Leeds, an assistant-surgeon; Thomas Clark, a former superintendent of convicts; James Thorp, the master millwright; and several other people, both men and women, who had been granted a passage to England by the governor.

The following were the prices of various articles, as they were sold at Sydney about the time the ships sailed, viz

The following were the prices of different items as they were sold in Sydney around the time the ships set sail, namely:

Stock                            Groceries
-----                            ---------
Cows £80                         Hyson tea per lb £1 4s
Horses £90                       Coffee, ditto, 2s
Sheep £7 10s                     Sugar (soft), ditto, 1s
Goats £4                         Soap, ditto, 2s
Turkeys £1 1s                    Virginia leaf-tobacco, ditto, 5s
Geese £1 1s                      Brazil roll, ditto, 7s
Fowls, full grown, 5s            Black pepper, ditto, 4s
Ducks 5s                         Ginger, ditto, 3s
Fresh pork per lb 1s 3d          Pipes per gross £1 10s
Mutton 2s                           WINE AND SPIRITS
Goat per lb 1s 6d                Red port per bottle 5s
Kangaroo 6d                      Madeira, per bottle, 4s
Barley, per bushel, 10s          Cape wine, ditto, 3s
Peas, ditto, 7s                  Rum, ditto, 5s
Maize, ditto, 5s                 Gin, ditto, 6s
Ditto ground, ditto, 5s          Porter, ditto, 2s
Cheese per lb 3s                 Beer made at Sydney 1s 6d
Butter, ditto, 3s                   INDIA GOODS
White-wine vinegar per gallon 6s Long cloth per yard from 3s to 6s
Fish 2½d                         Callicoes, ditto, from 1s 6d to 2s 6d
Eggs per dozen 2s                Muslins, ditto, from 7s to 12s
Salted pork per lb 1s            Nankeen per piece 10s
Salted beef, ditto, 8d           Coarse printed callicoes, ditto, £1 5s
Potatoes per cwt 12s             Silk handkerchiefs, ditto, 12s
Ditto per lb 3d                     ENGLISH GOODS
Flour, ditto, 7½d                Black hats from 15s to £2
Wheat-meal, sifted, 4½d          Shoes per pair from 9s to 13s
Ditto, unsifted, 3½d             Cotton Stockings from 6s to 12s
Wheat per bushel 12s             Writing paper per quire 6s

Stock                            Groceries
-----                            ---------
Cows £80                         Hyson tea per lb £1 4s
Horses £90                       Coffee, same, 2s
Sheep £7 10s                     Sugar (soft), same, 1s
Goats £4                         Soap, same, 2s
Turkeys £1 1s                    Virginia leaf tobacco, same, 5s
Geese £1 1s                      Brazil roll, same, 7s
Fowls, full grown, 5s            Black pepper, same, 4s
Ducks 5s                         Ginger, same, 3s
Fresh pork per lb 1s 3d          Pipes per gross £1 10s
Mutton 2s                           Goat per lb 1s 6d
Kangaroo 6d                      Barley, per bushel, 10s
Peas, same, 7s                  Maize, same, 5s
Same ground, same, 5s          Cheese per lb 3s
Butter, same, 3s                   White wine vinegar per gallon 6s
Fish 2½d                         Eggs per dozen 2s
Salted pork per lb 1s            Salted beef, same, 8d
Potatoes per cwt 12s             Same per lb 3d
Flour, same, 7½d                Wheat-meal, sifted, 4½d
Same, unsifted, 3½d             Wheat per bushel 12s

The beer mentioned in the preceding account as being made at Sydney was brewed from Indian corn, properly malted, and bittered with the leaves and stalks of the love-apple, (Lycopersicum, a species of Solarium) or, as it was more commonly called in the settlement, the Cape gooseberry. Mr. Boston found this succeeded so well, that he erected at some expense a building proper for the business, and was, when the ships sailed, engaged in brewing beer from the abovementioned materials, and in making soap.

The beer mentioned in the previous account that was made in Sydney was brewed from malted corn and flavored with the leaves and stems of the love-apple (Lycopersicum, a type of Solanum), or, as it was more commonly known in the settlement, the Cape gooseberry. Mr. Boston found that this worked out so well that he invested in a proper building for the business and, when the ships sailed, was busy brewing beer from these ingredients and making soap.

At this time the following prices were demanded and paid for labour and work done at Sydney and the different settlements, viz. £. s. d.

At this time, the following prices were requested and paid for labor and work completed in Sydney and various settlements, namely: £. s. d.

A carpenter for a day's work               0  5  0
A labourer for a day's work                0  3  0
For clearing an acre of ground             3  0  0
For breaking up an acre of ground          1  0  0
For threshing a bushel of wheat            0  1  6
For reaping an acre of wheat               0 10  0
For felling an acre of timber              0 17  0
The price of ground was from 12s to £1 an acre
For making a pair of men's shoes           0  3  6
For making a pair of women's shoes         0  3  0
For making a coat                          0  6  0
For making a gown                          0  5  0

A carpenter for a day's work               £0.50  
A laborer for a day's work                £0.30  
For clearing an acre of land             £3.00  
For breaking up an acre of land          £1.00  
For threshing a bushel of wheat            £0.16  
For reaping an acre of wheat               £0.10  
For felling an acre of timber              £0.17  
The price of land was from £12 to £1 an acre  
For making a pair of men's shoes           £0.36  
For making a pair of women's shoes         £0.30  
For making a coat                          £0.60  
For making a gown                          £0.50

For washing, three-pence for each article was paid; and the person who washed found soap, etc. If a woman was hired, she had one shilling and six-pence for the day, and her meals.

For washing, they paid three pence for each item, and the washer provided soap and other supplies. If a woman was hired, she received one shilling and six pence for the day, along with her meals.

It must here be remarked, that the mechanic and the labourer were generally contented to be paid the above prices in such articles as they or their families stood in need of, the values of which had not as yet been regulated by any other authority, or guided by any other rule, than the will of the purchaser.

It should be noted that the mechanic and the laborer were usually satisfied to receive payment at the above prices in items that they or their families needed, the values of which had not yet been set by any other authority or determined by any other rule than the buyer's preferences.

The want at this time of several public buildings in the settlement has already been mentioned. To this want must be added, as absolutely necessary to the well-being and comfort of the settlers and the prosperity of the colony in general, that of a public store, to be opened on a plan, though not exactly the same, yet as liberal as that of the island of St Helena, where the East India Company issue to their own servants European and Indian goods, at ten per cent advance on the prime cost. Considering our immense distance from England, a greater advance would be necessary; and the settlers and others would be well satisfied, and think it equally liberal, to pay fifty per cent on the prime cost of all goods brought from England; for at present they pay never less than one hundred, and frequently one thousand per cent on what they have occasion to purchase. It may be supposed that government would not choose to open an account, and be concerned in the retail of goods; but any individual would find it to his interest to do this, particularly if assisted by government in the freight; and the inhabitants would gladly prefer the manufactures of their own country to the sweepings of the Indian bazars.

The lack of several public buildings in the settlement has already been noted. In addition to this, there’s a crucial need for a public store, which is essential for the well-being and comfort of the settlers and the overall prosperity of the colony. This store should operate on a plan that, while not exactly the same, is as generous as that of the island of St. Helena, where the East India Company supplies their own staff with European and Indian goods at a ten percent markup on the original cost. Given our vast distance from England, a higher markup would be necessary; settlers and others would be quite content to pay fifty percent over the original cost for all goods shipped from England because right now they’re paying at least one hundred percent, and often one thousand percent, for what they need. It’s likely that the government might hesitate to manage a retail operation; however, any individual would find it worthwhile to do so, especially with government support for shipping costs. The locals would prefer the products of their own country over the leftovers from the Indian markets.

The great want of men in the colony must be supplied as soon as a peace shall take place; but the want of respectable settlers may, perhaps, be longer felt; by these are meant men of property, with whom the gentlemen of the colony could associate, and who should be thoroughly experienced in the business of agriculture. Should such men ever arrive, the administration of justice might assume a less military appearance, and the trial by jury, ever dear and most congenial to Englishmen, be seen in New South Wales.

The urgent need for men in the colony must be addressed as soon as peace is established; however, the lack of respectable settlers might be felt for a longer time. By "respectable settlers," we mean men with financial resources, whom the colony's gentlemen could work with, and who are well-versed in farming. If such individuals were to arrive, the legal system could take on a less military feel, and the trial by jury, which is highly valued and appreciated by the English, could be introduced in New South Wales.

That we had not a thorough knowledge of the coast from Van Dieman's Land as far as Botany Bay, though to be regretted, was not to be wondered at. As a survey of the coast cannot very conveniently be made by any of the ships belonging to the settlement, it must be the business of government to provide proper vessels and persons for this service; and it is to be hoped that we shall not be much longer without a knowledge of the various ports, harbours, and rivers, and of the soil and productions of the country to the southward of the principal settlement.

That we didn't have a complete understanding of the coast from Van Dieman's Land to Botany Bay is unfortunate, but not surprising. Since ships from the settlement can't easily conduct a survey of the coast, it's the government's responsibility to provide the right vessels and personnel for this job. Hopefully, we won't be without knowledge of the different ports, harbors, and rivers, as well as the land and resources of the area south of the main settlement for much longer.

The Account of the English Colony of New South Wales must here be closed for a time, the writer being embarked in the Britannia on his return to England. On reviewing the pages he has written, the question involuntarily arises in his mind, In what other colony under the British government has a narrator of its annals had such circumstances to record? No other colony was ever established under such circumstances. He has, it is true, occasionally had the gratification of recording the return of principle in some, whose want of that ingredient, so necessary to society, had sent them thither; but it has oftener been his task to show the predilection for immorality, perseverance in dissipation, and inveterate propensity to vice, which prevailed in many others. The difficulty under such disadvantages of establishing the blessings of a regular and civil government must have occurred to every well-informed mind that has reflected on our situation. The duties of a governor, of a judge-advocate, and of other magistrates and civil officers, could not be compared with those in other countries. From the disposition to crimes and the incorrigible characters of the major part of the colonists, an odium was, from the first, illiberally thrown upon the settlement; and the word 'Botany Bay' became a term of reproach that was indiscriminately cast on every one who resided in New South Wales. But let the reproach light on those who have used it as such. These pages were written to demonstrate, that the bread of government has not been eaten in idleness by its different officers; and that if the honour of having deserved well of one's country be attainable by sacrificing good name, domestic comforts, and dearest connections in her service, the officers of this settlement have justly merited that distinction.

The Account of the English Colony of New South Wales must come to a close for now, as the writer is aboard the Britannia on his way back to England. Reflecting on what he has written, he can't help but wonder: In which other British colony has a chronicler faced such unique circumstances? No other colony was ever founded under such conditions. It is true that he has occasionally found satisfaction in noting the return to virtue in some individuals, whose lack of that essential quality, so vital for society, brought them here; but more often, he has had to highlight the tendencies towards immorality, the persistence in debauchery, and the stubborn inclination towards vice that many others displayed. The challenge of establishing the benefits of a stable and civil government under such disadvantages must be evident to anyone who has thoughtfully considered our situation. The roles of a governor, judge-advocate, and other magistrates and civil officers cannot be compared to those in other countries. Due to the prevalence of crime and the unchangeable nature of most colonists, a stigma was unjustly placed on the settlement from the very beginning, and "Botany Bay" became a derogatory term hurled indiscriminately at everyone living in New South Wales. However, let the blame fall on those who misuse it. These pages were written to show that the officers of the government have not been idle in their duties; and that if true honor comes from sacrificing one’s reputation, home comforts, and closest relationships for their country, then the officers of this settlement have truly earned that honor.

CONCLUSION:

COMPRISING

INCLUDES

Particulars of the BRITANNIA'S VOYAGE to ENGLAND; with Remarks on the STATE of NORFOLK ISLAND, and some Account of NEW ZEALAND.

Details of the BRITANNIA's journey to England; with comments on the situation in Norfolk Island, and a brief overview of New Zealand.

The Britannia sailed from Port Jackson, in company with his Majesty's ship Reliance and the Francis colonial schooner, on the 29th of September.

The Britannia set sail from Port Jackson, alongside His Majesty's ship Reliance and the Francis colonial schooner, on September 29th.

On the 4th of October, we had Ball Pyramid off Lord Howe's Island distant about five leagues, and were from that day until the 15th, owing to light and contrary winds, before we reached Norfolk Island; where we found his Majesty's ship Supply, which had been there several days. On the following morning we had communication with the shore.

On October 4th, we spotted Ball Pyramid near Lord Howe Island, about five leagues away, and due to light and contrary winds, we didn’t reach Norfolk Island until the 15th. There, we found His Majesty's ship Supply, which had already been there for several days. The next morning, we made contact with the shore.

The interval between the 16th and 23rd was occupied in receiving on board the Britannia Lieutenant-governor King and his family, who were returning to England. On the 25th the colonial schooner, which had attended for that purpose, received Captain King's letters to Governor Hunter, and the three ships made sail from the island.

The period from the 16th to the 23rd was spent bringing onboard the Britannia Lieutenant-Governor King and his family, who were heading back to England. On the 25th, the colonial schooner, which had been there for that reason, collected Captain King's letters to Governor Hunter, and the three ships set sail from the island.

During the time we were there, the weather fortunately proved extremely favourable for communicating with the shore, and large quantities of stock and grain were received on board, in addition to what we brought from Port Jackson, and sufficient for a much longer passage than we had any reason to expect in the run to the Cape of Good Hope.

During our time there, the weather turned out to be really good for communicating with the shore, and we received a lot of livestock and grain on board, in addition to what we brought from Port Jackson, which was enough for a much longer journey than we expected to the Cape of Good Hope.

With the following Particulars of the State of NORFOLK ISLAND to the time when the ships left it, the Writer has been favoured by LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR KING.

With the following details about the state of Norfolk Island up until the time the ships left, the writer has been supported by Lieutenant-Governor King.

COURT OF JUDICATURE

Court of Law

A court of criminal judicature existed there similar to that in New South Wales, differing only in being composed of five instead of seven members. No civil court, however, had been established.

A criminal court was set up there, similar to the one in New South Wales, but it had five members instead of seven. However, no civil court had been established.

NUMBER OF INHABITANTS

POPULATION COUNT

The civil department consisted of a lieutenant-governor, a deputy judge-advocate, a deputy provost-marshal, and deputy commissary; a surgeon, a store-keeper, and four subordinate officers.

The civil department included a lieutenant governor, a deputy judge advocate, a deputy provost marshal, and a deputy commissary; a surgeon, a storekeeper, and four junior officers.

The military consisted of a company of the New South Wales corps.

The military was made up of a company from the New South Wales corps.

The settlers were, four seamen who belonged to his Majesty's ship Sirius; fifteen marines who were discharged at the relief of that detachment; fifty-two settlers from among those whose respective terms of transportation had expired; three officers, and others who held ground by grant or lease, or had purchased allotments from settlers; fourteen from those whose terms of transportation were unexpired, but who held allotments exceeding five acres. The whole number (exclusive of the officers), with their families, was about two hundred and forty.

The settlers consisted of four sailors from His Majesty's ship Sirius; fifteen marines who were released from that detachment; fifty-two settlers whose transportation terms had ended; three officers, and others who either had land through grants or leases, or had bought parcels from settlers; fourteen individuals whose transportation terms were still active, but who managed land exceeding five acres. The total number (excluding the officers), along with their families, was around two hundred and forty.

One hundred and forty-nine men, and sixty-three women, whose terms of sentence had expired, supported themselves by hiring ground from settlers, working for individuals, or at their different callings, (some few were employed as overseers) and labouring for the public; for which they were clothed and fed from the stores, and received such other encouragement as their behaviour merited. The number of this class, with their women and children, was about one hundred and thirty.

One hundred and forty-nine men and sixty-three women, whose sentences were over, supported themselves by renting land from settlers, working for individuals, or doing various jobs (a few were employed as overseers). They also worked for the public, for which they were provided with clothing and food from the stores, along with any additional support based on their behavior. The total number of this group, including their women and children, was around one hundred and thirty.

MALE CONVICTS

MALE PRISONERS

The numbers of these who remained under the sentence of the law were as follow:

The number of those who remained under the law's sentence was as follows:

For life                  36
From 10 to 5 years        10
From 5 to 3                4
From 3 to 1               26
From 1 year to 6 months   60
                         ---
Total                    136

For life                  36  
From 10 to 5 years        10  
From 5 to 3                4  
From 3 to 1               26  
From 1 year to 6 months   60  
                         ---  
Total                    136

of which number fifty-seven were assigned to settlers and others, on condition of being maintained by them; the rest were occupied as hereafter stated; from which it will be obvious, that no progress in cultivation for the crown could be made, as not more than thirty men were employed in cultivating ground for the public advantage, and even these were much interrupted by incidental work, and by attending the artificers in carrying on the different buildings which were indispensable.

of which fifty-seven were given to settlers and others, with the condition that they would be maintained by them; the rest were occupied as mentioned later; this makes it clear that no progress in farming for the crown could be achieved, as no more than thirty men were working on cultivating land for the public good, and even they were frequently interrupted by other tasks and by helping the tradespeople in carrying out the necessary construction.

STATE OF CULTIVATION

CULTIVATION STATUS

The island contains about eleven thousand acres of ground. In the level parts where the earth cannot be washed away by the heavy rains, the soil varies from a rich brown mould to a light red earth, without any intermixture of sand. These are again varied by some extensive pieces of light black mould and fine gravel, which are found to produce the best wheat. The rains which fall during the winter months wash the mould from the sides of the steep hills into the bottoms, leaving a grey marly substance, which will not admit of cultivation in that state. This, however, is the case only among the very steep hills that are cleared of timber, and have been four or five years in cultivation. Those of an easy ascent preserve their depth of soil, and many of them have borne six successive crops of wheat. From the quantity of soil thus washed away from the sides of the steep hills into the bottom (some of which were only a water-way between the hills), there were level spots of ground covered to a great depth with the richest mould. Of the eleven thousand acres of ground in this island, there are not two hundred that might not be cultivated to the greatest advantage, if cleared of timber, and allowed a sufficiency of labourers, of cattle, and of ploughs.

The island has about eleven thousand acres of land. In the flat areas where the soil isn’t washed away by heavy rains, the dirt ranges from rich brown loam to light red earth, without any sand mixed in. There are also some large patches of light black loam and fine gravel, which are known to produce the best wheat. The rains during the winter wash the loam down from the steep hills into the valleys, leaving behind a grey clay-like substance that can’t be farmed in that condition. However, this only happens on the very steep hills that have been cleared of trees and cultivated for four or five years. Hills with a gentler slope maintain their soil depth, and many have yielded six consecutive crops of wheat. Due to the soil being washed away from the steep hills into the valleys (some of which were just drainage paths between the hills), there are flat areas covered with a deep layer of rich loam. Out of the eleven thousand acres on this island, there are fewer than two hundred acres that couldn’t be farmed profitably if they were cleared of trees and had enough workers, livestock, and plows.

APPROPRIATION OF THE LAND

Land appropriation

The ground cleared of timber for the public use, and that marked out for the settlers lots, comprised one half of the island, and was distributed in the following manner:

The land that was cleared of trees for public use and set aside for settlers' lots made up half of the island, and it was distributed in this way:

                                                            Acres
                                               Number  cleared of
                                               of Acres    Timber

Ground allotted to settlers on grant or lease  3,239          920
Ground allotted to officers by grant, lease,
or permission                                    132          132
Ground allotted to individuals of different
descriptions                                     100          100
Ground reserved for government, and contiguous
to the above allotments                       1,400            -
Ground cleared of timber, and occupied for the
public benefit                                   376          376
                                               -----        -----
Total quantity of ground occupied as above     5,247        1,528

Supposed contents of the island, about       11,000
Supposed quantity of ground unoccupied, about 5,753
Supposed quantity of ground not cleared of
timber                                        9,472

                                                    Acres
                                          Number cleared of
                                          Timber Acres

Land given to settlers on grant or lease         3,239          920  
Land given to officers by grant, lease,  
or permission                                      132          132  
Land allocated to individuals of various  
types                                             100          100  
Land reserved for government, and adjacent  
to the above lots                              1,400            -  
Land cleared of timber, and used for the  
public good                                      376          376  
                                            -----        -----  
Total area of land occupied as mentioned        5,247        1,528  

Estimated size of the island, about           11,000  
Estimated area of unoccupied land, about      5,753  
Estimated area of land not cleared of  
timber                                      9,472

Most of the ground cleared of timber was under cultivation in 1793 and 1794, and produced above thirty-four thousand bushels of grain; but, from the sudden and effectual check given to private industry during the year 1794, and the great proportion of the labourers working for their own support and other ways disposed of, not more than a third of the government-ground, and a fifth of the ground belonging to individuals, was in any state of cultivation during the last year. That portion of the ground thus neglected became over-run with rank and strong weeds, which formed a great cover to the numerous rats; beside that the injury done to the soil by the growth of these weeds was very much to be deplored. The humane attention, however, shown to the wants of the industrious individual by Governor Hunter, in directing the maize bills to be paid, it was hoped would not only relieve many deserving people, but also revive that industrious disposition which the settlers had in general manifested.

Most of the land cleared of trees was being farmed in 1793 and 1794, producing over thirty-four thousand bushels of grain. However, due to the sudden and significant halt to private industry in 1794, combined with a large number of laborers working for their own survival and other reasons, only about a third of the government land and a fifth of privately owned land was cultivated during the last year. The neglected areas became overrun with thick and strong weeds, which provided cover for many rats. Additionally, the damage to the soil caused by these weeds was quite unfortunate. However, the compassionate support shown to hardworking individuals by Governor Hunter, by ensuring the maize payments were made, was hoped to not only help many deserving people but also rekindle the industrious spirit that the settlers had generally displayed.

The small number of convicts at public work, and the labour necessary for preparing the ground to receive wheat, did not admit of more than one hundred acres of wheat, and eighteen of maize being sown last year for the crown; the produce of which had been abundant; but the quantity was much reduced by the weeds that grew with it, and from an attack by lightning when in blossom.

The limited number of convicts available for public work and the effort required to prepare the land for planting wheat only allowed for about one hundred acres of wheat and eighteen acres of corn to be sown last year for the crown. The harvest was plentiful, but the yield was significantly decreased due to the weeds that grew alongside it and damage caused by a lightning strike during the bloom.

Cultivation was confined to maize, wheat, potatoes, and other garden-vegetables. The heat of the climate, occasional droughts, and blighting winds, rendered wheat an uncertain crop; nor could it be averaged at more than eighteen bushels an acre, though some had yielded twenty-five.

Cultivation was limited to corn, wheat, potatoes, and other garden vegetables. The hot climate, occasional droughts, and damaging winds made wheat an unreliable crop; it averaged no more than eighteen bushels per acre, although some fields produced twenty-five.

Owing to the quick and constant growth of rank weeds few individuals could sow more wheat than was necessary to mix with their maize, which hitherto had rarely exceeded five acres each family. Some few indeed among the settlers, who were remarkably industrious, or who had greater advantages than others, had generally from five to eleven acres in wheat; but the number of these was very small.

Due to the rapid and persistent growth of aggressive weeds, very few people could plant more wheat than needed to mix with their corn, which had usually been no more than five acres per family. A few settlers who were exceptionally hard-working or had better resources than others typically managed to have between five and eleven acres of wheat; however, their numbers were quite limited.

The harvests of maize were constant, certain, and plentiful; and two crops were generally procured in twelve months. The produce of one crop might be averaged at forty-five bushels per acre, and many had yielded from seventy to eighty.

The maize harvests were reliable, guaranteed, and abundant; typically, two crops were harvested in a year. The average yield of one crop was about forty-five bushels per acre, with many yielding between seventy and eighty.

By the statement before given it appears, that there were five thousand two hundred and forty-seven acres occupied; of which only one thousand five hundred and twenty-eight were cleared of timber: that there also remained five thousand seven hundred and fifty-three neither occupied nor cleared, making in the whole nine thousand four hundred and seventy-two acres not cleared of timber. If six thousand of the nine thousand four hundred and seventy-two acres not cleared could be put under cultivation in addition to the one thousand five hundred and twenty-eight already cleared of timber, its produce at one crop only, and allowing no more than thirty bushels of maize to the acre, would be two hundred and twenty-five thousand eight hundred and forty bushels of grain; and even this might be doubled, if, as before said, there were labourers to procure a second crop.

From the previous statement, it seems that there were 5,247 acres being used, of which only 1,528 had been cleared of trees. There were also 5,753 acres that were neither occupied nor cleared, totaling 9,472 acres that still had timber. If 6,000 of the 9,472 acres that were not cleared could be farmed, in addition to the 1,528 that were already cleared, the yield from just one crop—with no more than 30 bushels of corn per acre—would be 225,840 bushels of grain. This amount could potentially be doubled if, as mentioned earlier, there were enough workers to harvest a second crop.

The remaining three thousand four hundred and seventy-two acres might be reserved for fuel, building-timber, and other purposes.

The remaining 3,472 acres could be set aside for fuel, construction timber, and other uses.

From these data some calculation may be made of the number of people that the island might be made to maintain.

From this data, we can calculate how many people the island could support.

The following is a statement of the stock belonging to government and individuals on the 18th October 1796:

The following is a statement of the stock owned by the government and individuals on October 18, 1796:

To whom belonging
                   Male---Female---Male and Female
Cattle
------
Government           3     3
Individuals          -     -

Horses
------
Government           -     -
Individuals          1     2

Asses
-----
Government           2     4
Individuals          0     0

Sheep
-----
Government                               22
Individuals                             148

Goats
-----
Government                               55
Individuals                             328

Swine
-----
Government                              710
Individuals                            4125

Poultry     very great abundance
-------

To whom it belongs  
                   Male---Female---Male and Female  
Cattle  
------  
Government           3     3  
Individuals          -     -  

Horses  
------  
Government           -     -  
Individuals          1     2  

Donkeys  
-----  
Government           2     4  
Individuals          0     0  

Sheep  
-----  
Government                               22  
Individuals                             148  

Goats  
-----  
Government                               55  
Individuals                             328  

Pigs  
-----  
Government                              710  
Individuals                            4125  

Poultry     very plentiful  
-------

Exclusive of the above stock, five hundred and ninety-two thousand four hundred and eighty pounds of swine's flesh and mutton had been expended on the island and exported from it; all which were produced from the following quantity received from November 1791 to October 1796.

Exclusive of the above stock, 592,480 pounds of pork and lamb had been used on the island and shipped from it; all of which were produced from the following amount received from November 1791 to October 1796.

               Cattle  Horses  Asses  Sheep  Goats  Swine
(Male/Female)   M  F    M  F    M  F   M  F   M  F   M  F
Total received  1  2    1  1    1  3   2  21  2  11  4 157

               Cattle  Horses  Donkeys  Sheep  Goats  Pigs
(Male/Female)   M  F    M  F    M  F   M  F   M  F   M  F
Total received  1  2    1  1    1  3   2  21  2  11  4 157

When the settlers were informed that payment for the maize lodged in the stores in January 1794 could not be made until orders were received from England, and that no more grain could be received, but that the purchase of fresh pork would be continued, the course of their industry became changed, though raising grain still continued necessary for rearing their stock.

When the settlers found out that they couldn’t get paid for the corn stored in January 1794 until orders came from England, and that no more grain could be accepted, but they could still buy fresh pork, it altered their approach to farming, even though growing grain remained essential for feeding their livestock.

On most part of the nine thousand four hundred and seventy-two acres not cleared of timber the trees and underwood were covered with succulent herbage, which, with the fern and other soft roots, afford the best food for swine. Several individuals had taken advantage of this convenience, by inclosing from ten to one hundred acres of the uncleared parts, into which they turned their swine, whereof many had from twenty to one hundred and fifty, that required nothing more than a sufficiency of maize to accustom them to their owner's call.

On most of the nine thousand four hundred seventy-two acres that weren't cleared of trees, the forest and underbrush were filled with rich grass, which, along with ferns and other soft roots, provided excellent food for pigs. Several people had taken advantage of this by enclosing between ten to one hundred acres of the uncleared land, where they put their pigs, with many having between twenty to one hundred and fifty, needing only enough corn to get them used to their owner’s call.

Another resource of animal food was on Phillip Island, which abounded with the best feed for swine. On it were at least three hundred and seventeen swine belonging to government, which were unconfined, and required no other attendance than the being called together occasionally by a man who resided there with his family. But those which were first sent, and their progeny, were so wild, that it was not thought an easy matter to take them. Several large hogs and boars had been brought from thence which had weighed, when fattened, from one hundred and eighty to three hundred and six pounds.

Another source of animal food was Phillip Island, which had the best feed for pigs. There were at least three hundred and seventeen pigs owned by the government, which roamed freely and only needed to be gathered occasionally by a man who lived there with his family. However, the pigs that were initially sent there, along with their offspring, were so wild that it was considered difficult to catch them. Several large pigs and boars had been brought from there, weighing between one hundred and eighty and three hundred and six pounds when fattened.

Salting pork in the cool months had been successfully tried; but it would not answer in the summer. It was intended that the swine belonging to government which could be killed during the winter should be salted down, as a sufficiency of salt was making to answer that purpose.

Salting pork in the cooler months had been successfully done; however, it wouldn’t work in the summer. The plan was to salt the government-owned pigs that could be killed during the winter, as there was enough salt being prepared for that purpose.

From these resources it might fairly be presumed, that if no unforeseen mortality should attack the stock, the settlers and other individuals would be able to continue supplying the stores with half the ration of animal food, and that government in the course of twelve months might furnish the other half. And farther, that if the industry of the settlers and other individuals were encouraged by their overplus grain and animal food being purchased at a fair price, the produce of the grounds cleared would be more than sufficient for the maintenance of the present inhabitants, three hundred and thirty-seven of whom supported themselves without any expense to the crown: and this might be further secured, if cattle and sheep could be sent there, as the former were much wanted for labour, and the latter for a change of food; for it is certain that sheep breed there as well as in any part of the world, and have not as yet been subject to the distempers common to that kind of stock. The Bengal ewes yean twice in the thirteen months, and have commonly two, often three, and sometimes four lambs at a yeaning; and these have increased so much, by being crossed with the Cape ram, that a lamb six weeks old is now as large as one of the old ewes.

From these resources, it's reasonable to assume that if no unexpected deaths occur among the livestock, the settlers and others can keep providing half the animal food rations to the stores, and that the government could supply the other half over the course of a year. Additionally, if the settlers and others are encouraged by getting a fair price for their surplus grain and animal food, the crops produced from the cleared land would be more than enough to support the current population, which consists of three hundred and thirty-seven people who have managed to sustain themselves without any cost to the crown. This could be further ensured if cattle and sheep were sent there, as the former are needed for labor and the latter for a change of diet. It's clear that sheep thrive there just as well as anywhere else, and they haven't yet been affected by the diseases that typically plague such livestock. Bengal ewes can give birth twice in thirteen months and usually have two, often three, and sometimes four lambs at a time. Due to crossbreeding with Cape rams, these lambs grow so quickly that a six-week-old lamb is now as big as one of the older ewes.

The goats too are extremely prolific, and generally breed thrice in the year, having commonly from two to four kids at a time.

The goats are really productive and usually breed three times a year, commonly having two to four kids at once.

Any number of sheep and goats, and a large quantity of cattle might be bred here, as the cleared ground affords the best of pasture for those species of stock. But it will be a long time before the present stock will be of much use, unless more are sent thither.

Any number of sheep and goats, as well as a lot of cattle, could be raised here, since the cleared land provides excellent grazing for these types of livestock. But it will take a while before the current livestock will be very useful unless more are sent there.

The want of artificers of all descriptions, and the scarcity of labourers at public work, much retarded the construction of a number of necessary buildings. The island possessed the best of stone, lime, and timber; but, unfortunately, there never had been but one mason (a marine settler) on the island.

The lack of skilled workers of all kinds, along with the shortage of laborers for public projects, significantly slowed down the construction of several important buildings. The island had the finest stone, lime, and timber; however, there had only ever been one mason (a marine settler) on the island.

At Cascade Bay a great advantage had been obtained in the construction of a very strong wharf, one hundred and twenty-six feet long, which connects the shore with the landing rock. At the end of it is a swinging crane and capstern, by which boats are loaded and unloaded with the heaviest articles; and in bad weather are hoisted up with perfect safety.

At Cascade Bay, a significant benefit was achieved by building a sturdy wharf that is one hundred and twenty-six feet long, linking the shore to the landing rock. At the end of the wharf, there's a swinging crane and capstan used to load and unload boats with heavy items, and in bad weather, these items can be hoisted up safely.

Near this wharf, a large storehouse, and barracks for the guard, are built. One of the great advantages attending this work is, that no risk need be run by ships keeping in Sydney Bay, as the landing is generally good at Cascade Bay, when it becomes in the least degree hazardous at the former place. And here it may be noticed, that no casualty by boats had happened since the lieutenant-governor's arrival in 1791.

Near this wharf, a large warehouse and guard barracks have been built. One of the main benefits of this development is that ships can safely remain in Sydney Bay, as the landing is usually good at Cascade Bay, even when it becomes somewhat risky at the former location. It’s also worth noting that no boat accidents have occurred since the lieutenant-governor arrived in 1791.

The utility of a well-constructed water-mill is sufficiently obvious. From an addition of three feet to the height of the dam, it ground twenty bushels of wheat daily; which had removed the great inconvenience of every man being obliged to grind his own ration before it could be dressed. The abundance of mill-stones, and the quantity of wood fit for millwrights' work, with the convenient situation of the different streams, will admit of any number of water-mills being erected.

The practicality of a well-built water mill is clear. With just an extra three feet added to the dam's height, it could grind twenty bushels of wheat a day, eliminating the hassle of everyone having to grind their own grain before cooking it. The availability of millstones and suitable wood for carpentry, along with the favorable locations of the various streams, allows for the construction of as many water mills as needed.

Two well-finished wind-mills had also been erected by settlers, which answered extremely well.

Two well-made windmills had also been set up by the settlers, and they worked really well.

Not more than ten settlers had been able to erect dwellings better than log-huts, which are neither warm nor durable. Better, indeed. could hardly be expected, when it was considered how much their labour and attention must have been employed in raising food for their families, and in procuring such articles of accommodation as they needed. Many, however, of this as well as of other descriptions were building comfortable framed and weather-boarded habitations at their own expense.

Not more than ten settlers had managed to build homes better than log cabins, which aren't very warm or lasting. It’s hard to expect much more when you think about how much time and effort they had to put into growing food for their families and getting the supplies they needed. Many of them, though, as well as others, were constructing comfy framed houses with weatherboarding, paying for it themselves.

Of schools there were two, viz one for young children, who were instructed by a woman of good character; and the other kept by a man, who taught reading, writing, and arithmetic, for which he was well qualified, and was very attentive. A third institution on a permanent footing was added, for the reception of such orphan female children as had lost or been deserted by their parents. Most of these were of such an age as to require a strict hand and careful eye over them. Unfortunately they, as well as the other children, were destitute of every article of clothing, except such as the store afforded, which was by no means calculated for children in that warm climate. By the application of fines imposed for breaches of the peace, etc. and a subscription raised among the officers, the orphan children had for some time past been clothed, and about twenty-eight pounds remained to be applied in the same manner.

There were two schools: one for young children taught by a woman of good character, and the other run by a man who taught reading, writing, and math, for which he was highly qualified and very attentive. A third established institution was created for orphaned girls who had lost or been abandoned by their parents. Most of these girls were young enough to need strict supervision and careful attention. Sadly, they, along with the other children, had no clothing except what the store provided, which wasn’t suitable for kids in that warm climate. Thanks to fines for breaking the peace and donations collected from the staff, the orphaned children had been clothed for a while, and about twenty-eight pounds were still available for this purpose.

HOURS OF LABOUR

WORKING HOURS

To explain this article, it will be necessary to state the different descriptions that compose the inhabitants; to do which in a perspicuous form the following classification has been adopted:

To explain this article, it will be necessary to outline the various descriptions of the inhabitants. To do this clearly, the following classification has been adopted:

Class   Description                               Numbers   By whom
                                                           supported
---------------------------------------------------------------------
1st     Civil and military                            83   government

2nd     Settlers, by grant or lease, and freemen who
        are under-tenants to the settler             104   labour
        Freemen who are hired by the year, etc or
        who hire themselves out daily                138   ditto
        Convicts who are taken off the stores by
        officers, etc                                  5   ditto
3rd     Ditto assigned to officers, etc               67   government
4th     Ditto employed as overseers, artificers,
        watchmen, etc for the public benefit, many
        of whom are invalids                         106   ditto
        Ditto cultivating ground for the public use,
        and other incidental work                     30   ditto

Total males                                          533

5th     Women belonging to civil and military, and
        at public labour                              40   ditto
        Ditto, who belong to the second class of men 125   labour
6th     Children belonging to the first and fourth
        classes                                      116   government
        Ditto to the second and third classes         73   labour

Total females and children                           354

Class   Description                               Numbers   By whom  
                                                           supported  
---------------------------------------------------------------------  
1st     Civil and military                            83   government  

2nd     Settlers, through grant or lease, and freemen  
        who are under-tenants to the settler             104   labor  
        Freemen who are hired yearly, etc., or  
        who work day-to-day                              138   ditto  
        Convicts who are taken off the stores by  
        officers, etc                                      5   ditto  
3rd     Ditto assigned to officers, etc                   67   government  
4th     Ditto employed as overseers, workers,  
        watchmen, etc., for the public benefit, many  
        of whom are invalids                             106   ditto  
        Ditto cultivating land for public use,  
        and other incidental work                         30   ditto  

Total males                                          533  

5th     Women belonging to civil and military, and  
        at public work                                    40   ditto  
        Ditto, who belong to the second class of men   125   labor  
6th     Children belonging to the first and fourth  
        classes                                          116   government  
        Ditto to the second and third classes             73   labor  

Total females and children                           354

From the foregoing statement it appears, that not more than one hundred and thirty-six men, composing the fourth class, are employed in carrying on public work, of which number only twenty-eight can be employed (when other works of public necessity do not intervene) in raising grain, etc. without expense to the crown, for the first, third, fourth, and a part of the fifth and sixth classes; making together four hundred and forty-two persons.

From the previous statement, it seems that no more than one hundred and thirty-six men from the fourth class are working on public projects. Of this group, only twenty-eight can be utilized (when other necessary public works don’t interfere) to harvest grain and such, at no cost to the crown, for the first, third, fourth, and part of the fifth and sixth classes; totaling four hundred and forty-two individuals.

Those of the fourth class who labour as carpenters, sawyers, blacksmiths, etc. work from daylight till eight o'clock; from nine till noon; and from two in the afternoon till sun-set; and as long as they do their work properly, they have Fridays and Saturdays to themselves, which they employ in working at their grounds, or in building, etc. for settlers and others who can employ them. As those works are in fact of a private nature, although in the end they become more or less of public utility, the artificers are indulged with the use of government-tools and such materials as can be spared.

Those in the fourth class who work as carpenters, sawyers, blacksmiths, etc., work from dawn until eight o'clock, from nine until noon, and from two in the afternoon until sunset. As long as they complete their tasks properly, they have Fridays and Saturdays free, which they use to tend to their own land or take on building projects for settlers and others who need their services. Even though these jobs are primarily for private benefit, they end up providing some public utility, so the tradespeople are allowed to use government tools and any materials that can be spared.

Those employed in cultivation, and other incidental labour, for the public benefit, work at all seasons from daylight until one o'clock, which is found much more advisable than dispersing them at the hours for meals, and collecting them again to resume their labour. As very few of this description have any persons to dress their meal, or grind their maize, they have by this management a great part of the day at their own disposal; and from the 21st of September to the 21st of February no public work is done on Saturdays. Those of this description who are industrious employ a great part of their leisure time in cultivating pieces of ground for their own use, or labouring for others.

Those working in farming and other related jobs for the public good work all day from sunrise until 1 PM. This schedule is much better than breaking for meals and gathering everyone again to continue working. Since very few of these workers have anyone to prepare their meals or grind their corn, they end up with a significant portion of the day free. From September 21 to February 21, there’s no public work done on Saturdays. Those who are diligent often spend a lot of their free time cultivating small plots of land for themselves or helping others.

The second and a part of the fifth and sixth classes, making together three hundred and thirty-one persons, support themselves by the produce of their labour without expense to the crown; as the clothing with which they and the settlers are occasionally furnished from the stores is paid for in grain or stock.

The second, along with parts of the fifth and sixth classes, totals three hundred and thirty-one people who provide for themselves through their work without costing the crown anything; the clothes that they and the settlers occasionally receive from the stores are paid for with grain or livestock.

ORDINARY PRICE OF LABOUR

AVERAGE WAGE RATE

To a convict taken off the stores by an officer or settler, from £5 to £5 per annurn
To a freeman hired by the year, victualled and clothed, from £10 to £12 per annum.
A day's work for a labourer, with victuals, is 3s; without, 5s
Cutting down and burning off an acre of wood, £2
Cutting down and burning off an acre of weeds, £1 10s
Threshing one bushel of wheat, 10lbs.; equal to 1s 8d.

To a convict provided for by an officer or settler, from £5 to £5 per year
To a free worker employed for the year, with food and clothing, from £10 to £12 per year.
A day's work for a laborer, with food, costs 3s; without food, 5s
Cutting down and burning an acre of trees, £2
Cutting down and burning an acre of weeds, £1 10s
Threshing one bushel of wheat, 10lbs.; which equals 1s 8d.

Other works are in proportion. The mode of payment for labour is various, and depends entirely on the employer's circumstances; but it is in general made by what arises from the grain or fresh pork put into the stores by settlers, etc.; sometimes (but very rarely) in cash; and often by equal labour, or by produce, which is rated as underneath.

Other jobs are proportional. The way workers get paid varies and depends entirely on the employer's situation; usually, it's based on the grain or fresh pork that settlers bring into the stores; sometimes (but very rarely) it's in cash; and often it’s by equal labor or by goods, which are valued as described below.

And, in order to prevent disputes respecting the payment, these agreements, as well as all others, are entered in a book kept by a person for that purpose, and properly witnessed.

And to avoid arguments about payment, these agreements, along with all others, are recorded in a book maintained by a designated person and properly witnessed.

AVERAGE PRICES OF PROVISIONS RAISED ON THE ISLAND, EITHER FOR SALE,
FOR BARTER, OR IN PAYMENT FOR LABOUR.

Plentiful Articles.

Fresh pork 6d per lb
Pickled ditto 8d
Wheat from 7s 6d to 10s per bushel
Maize from 1s 6d to 5s
Potatoes from 1s to 3s 6d per cwt
Full-grown fowls from 6d to 1s each
Ditto ducks 10d to 1s 3d each
Ditto turkeys 7s 6d each

Scarce Articles.

Geese 10s each
Female goats £8 each
Goats' flesh or mutton to government 9d per lb
Ditto to individuals 1s 6d ditto

AVERAGE PRICES OF PROVISIONS RAISED ON THE ISLAND, EITHER FOR SALE, FOR BARTER, OR AS PAYMENT FOR LABOR.

Plentiful Items.

Fresh pork 6p per lb  
Pickled pork 8p  
Wheat from £7.50 to £10 per bushel  
Maize from 1s 6p to 5s  
Potatoes from 1s to 3s 6p per cwt  
Full-grown chickens from 6p to 1s each  
Ducks from 10p to 1s 3p each  
Turkeys £7.50 each  

Scarce Items.

Geese £10 each  
Female goats £8 each  
Goat meat or mutton to the government 9p per lb  
Goat meat or mutton to individuals 1s 6p per lb

NB When the latter is taken into the stores for the sick, it is issued as five pounds of mutton for seven pounds of salt beef stopped in the stores; by which method government does not pay more than six-pence per pound as for fresh pork.

NB When the latter is brought into the warehouses for the sick, it is issued as five pounds of mutton for seven pounds of salt beef held in storage; with this method, the government does not pay more than six pence per pound as for fresh pork.

ACCOUNT OF GRAIN RAISED BY THOSE EMPLOYED IN CULTIVATING GROUND
FOR THE PUBLIC USE; AND THAT RAISED BY OFFICERS, SETTLERS,
AND OTHERS, ON NORFOLK ISLAND, FROM THE 6TH OF MARCH 1788
(WHEN IT WAS FIRST SETTLED) TO OCTOBER 1796.

ACCOUNT OF GRAIN RAISED BY THOSE WORKING IN AGRICULTURE
FOR PUBLIC USE; AND THAT RAISED BY OFFICERS, SETTLERS,
AND OTHERS, ON NORFOLK ISLAND, FROM MARCH 6, 1788
(WHEN IT WAS FIRST SETTLED) TO OCTOBER 1796.

Year                         By whom   Quantity    Bushels of maize
                             raised    of maize    and wheat purchased
                                       and wheat   from individuals
                                       in bushels  for the public use

From March 1788 to May 1789 government      46
                            individuals     10
May 1789 to May 1790        government     450
                            individuals     50
The lieutenant-governor was absent this year
From May 1791 to May 1792   government    1688
                            individuals    391           40
May 1792 to May 1793        government    4549
                            individuals   6900         3610½
May 1793 to May 1794        government    6000
                            individuals 28,676       11,688
May 1794 to May 1795        government    3300
                            individuals 14,000         none.
May 1795 to May 1796        government    1803
                            individuals 11,500          389

Year                         By whom   Quantity    Bushels of maize  
                             raised    of maize    and wheat purchased  
                                       and wheat   from individuals  
                                       in bushels  for the public use  

From March 1788 to May 1789 government      46  
                            individuals     10  
May 1789 to May 1790        government     450  
                            individuals     50  
The lieutenant-governor was absent this year  
From May 1791 to May 1792   government    1688  
                            individuals    391           40  
May 1792 to May 1793        government    4549  
                            individuals   6900         3610½  
May 1793 to May 1794        government    6000  
                            individuals 28,676       11,688  
May 1794 to May 1795        government    3300  
                            individuals 14,000         none.  
May 1795 to May 1796        government    1803  
                            individuals 11,500          389

ACCOUNT OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS FROM NOVEMBER 12TH, 1791,
TO SEPTEMBER 31st, 1796.

ACCOUNT OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS FROM NOVEMBER 12TH, 1791,
TO SEPTEMBER 31ST, 1796.

Births
======

Civil      10
Military    3
Convicts  178
Total     191

Civil       1
Military    4
Convicts   94
Children   38
Total     137


From 1 month to  2 years 38 have died
     2 years to 18        2
    18       to 30       36
    30       to 45       30
    45       to 65       31
                        ---
Total                   137

Teething                 23 have died
Dysentery                45
Cholera morbus 1,
   obstipation 1          2
Fevers 7,
consumptions 8           15
Debility                 22
Lues venerea              5
Dropsy 3,
putrid sore throat 1      4
Convulsions and epilepsy  4
Surfeit 2, scalded 1,
abscess and canker 2      5
Eruptions, scald head,
and mortifications        3
Iliac passion             1
Shot 1, casualties 2,
 executed 1, suicide 2    6
Ophthalmia                2
                        ---
Total                   137

Births
======

Civil      10  
Military    3  
Convicts  178  
Total     191  

Civil       1  
Military    4  
Convicts   94  
Children   38  
Total     137  

From 1 month to 2 years 38 have died  
     2 years to 18        2  
    18       to 30       36  
    30       to 45       30  
    45       to 65       31  
                        ---  
Total                   137  

Teething                 23 have died  
Dysentery                45  
Cholera morbus 1,  
   obstipation 1          2  
Fevers 7,  
consumptions 8           15  
Debility                 22  
Lues venerea              5  
Dropsy 3,  
putrid sore throat 1      4  
Convulsions and epilepsy  4  
Surfeit 2, scalded 1,  
abscess and canker 2      5  
Eruptions, scald head,  
and mortifications        3  
Iliac passion             1  
Shot 1, casualties 2,  
 executed 1, suicide 2    6  
Ophthalmia                2  
                        ---  
Total                   137

STATE OF THE FLAX MANUFACTORY

STATE OF THE FLAX FACTORY

Not more than nine men and nine women can be employed in preparing and manufacturing the flax, which barely keeps them in practice. There is only one loom on the island, and the slay or reed is designed for coarse canvas; nor do they possess a single tool required by flax-dressers or weavers, beyond the poor substitutes which they are obliged to fabricate themselves. If there were introduced proper slays or reeds, brushes, and other articles indispensably necessary for flax-dressing and weaving, with more people to work the flax and a greater number of weavers, this island would soon require very little assistance in clothing the convicts; but, for the want of these necessary articles, the only cloth that can be made is a canvas something finer than No 7, which is thought to be equally strong and durable as that made from European flax.

No more than nine men and nine women can be employed in preparing and manufacturing the flax, which barely keeps them in practice. There’s only one loom on the island, and the slay or reed is made for coarse canvas; they also don’t have a single tool needed by flax-dressers or weavers, apart from the poor substitutes they have to make themselves. If proper slays or reeds, brushes, and other essential items for flax-dressing and weaving were introduced, along with more people to work the flax and a greater number of weavers, this island would quickly need very little help in clothing the convicts. But, due to the lack of these necessary items, the only fabric that can be produced is a canvas slightly finer than No. 7, which is believed to be just as strong and durable as that made from European flax.

This useful plant needs no cultivation. An experiment has been made to cultivate it, and answered extremely well; but the produce was not so much superior to that growing in a natural state as to make it advisable to bestow any pains on its culture.

This useful plant doesn’t require any farming. An experiment was done to grow it, and it worked out really well; however, the yield wasn’t significantly better than what grows naturally, so it’s not worth the effort to farm it.

Before the arrival of the two New Zealanders in May 1793, no effectual progress had been made in its manufacture; nor was it without much entreaty that our visitors were induced to furnish the information we required. And indeed, as this work is principally performed by the women in New Zealand, our friends were by no means competent to give us the fullest instructions. Sufficient, however, was obtained from them to improve upon. Since that time those women that could be spared from other work, not exceeding from six to twelve, had been employed in preparing the flax; and a flax-dresser, weaver, and three other assistants, in manufacturing it into canvas, rope, etc.

Before the two New Zealanders arrived in May 1793, no real progress had been made in its production; and it took a lot of convincing for our visitors to share the information we needed. In fact, since this work is mainly done by women in New Zealand, our friends weren't really able to give us complete instructions. However, we did get enough from them to make improvements. Since then, those women who could be spared from other tasks, usually between six to twelve, have been working on preparing the flax; along with a flax-dresser, a weaver, and three other helpers, to turn it into canvas, rope, and other items.

When the leaves are gathered, the hard stalk running through the centre is taken out with the thumb-nail; and the red edges of the leaf are also stripped off. The two parts are then separated in the middle, making four slips of about three-quarters of an inch wide, and the length of from eighteen inches to three or four feet. These slips are cut across the centre with a muscle-shell, but not so deep as to separate the fibres, which is the flax. The slips thus prepared are held in the left hand, with the thumb resting on the upper part of the slip just above the cut. The muscle-shell held in the right hand is placed on the upper part just below the cut, with the thumb resting on the upper part. The shell is drawn to the end of the slip, which separates the vegetable covering from the flaxen filaments. The slip is then trimmed, and the same operation is performed on the remaining part, which leaves the flax entire. If it be designed for fishing-lines, or other coarse work, nothing more is done to it; but if intended for cloth, it is twisted and beaten for a considerable time in a clear stream of water; and when dried, twisted into such threads as the work requires. It has been before observed, that the New Zealand instructors were not very conversant in the mode of preparing the flax; but on what was learnt from them it was our business to improve. Instead of working it as soon as gathered, our people found it work better for being placed in a heap in a close room for five days or a week, after which it became softer and pleasanter to work. They also found it easier, and more expeditious, to scrape the vegetable covering from the fibres, which is done with three strokes of a knife. It is then twisted, and put into a tub of water, where it remains until the day's work is finished. The day following it is washed and beaten in a running stream. When sufficiently beaten it is dried, and needs no other preparation, until it is hackled and spun into yarn for weaving.

When the leaves are gathered, the tough stem running through the center is removed with the thumb-nail, and the red edges of the leaf are also stripped off. The two parts are then split in the middle, creating four strips about three-quarters of an inch wide and ranging in length from eighteen inches to three or four feet. These strips are cut in the middle with a muscle shell, but not so deep as to cut through the fibers, which is the flax. The prepared strip is held in the left hand, with the thumb resting on the upper part of the strip just above the cut. The muscle shell held in the right hand is placed on the upper part just below the cut, with the thumb resting on the upper part. The shell is pulled to the end of the strip, which separates the outer covering from the flax fibers. The strip is then trimmed, and the same process is done on the remaining part, leaving the flax intact. If it is intended for fishing lines or other coarse work, no further action is taken; however, if it’s meant for cloth, it is twisted and beaten for a significant time in clean running water, and when dried, twisted into threads as required for the project. It has been noted that New Zealand instructors were not very familiar with the method of preparing the flax; however, we aimed to improve upon what we learned from them. Instead of processing it immediately after gathering, our people discovered it worked better after being placed in a pile in a closed room for five days or a week, after which it became softer and easier to handle. They also found it more efficient to scrape the outer covering from the fibers, which is done with three knife strokes. It is then twisted and placed in a tub of water, where it stays until the workday is over. The next day, it is washed and beaten in a flowing stream. Once sufficiently beaten, it is dried and requires no further preparation until it is hackled and spun into yarn for weaving.

The numbers employed at this work were as follow:

The numbers used in this work were as follows:

Invalids gathering the flax 3 men
Preparing it                7 women
Beating and washing it      3 who are invalids
Flax-dresser                1
Spinners                    2 women
Weaver and assistant        2 men
                           --
Total                      18

Invalids gathering the flax: 3 men  
Preparing it: 7 women  
Beating and washing it: 3 invalids  
Flax-dresser: 1  
Spinners: 2 women  
Weaver and assistant: 2 men  
                           --  
Total: 18

by whose weekly labour sixteen yards of canvas of the size of No 7 was made. It is to be remarked, that the women, and most of the men, could be employed at no other work; and that the labour of manuring and cultivating the ground; the loss of other crops; the many processes used in manufacturing the European hemp, and the accidents to which it is liable during its growth, are all, by using this flax, avoided, as it needs no cultivation, and grows in sufficient abundance on all the cliffs of the island (where nothing else will grow) to give constant employment to five hundred people. Indeed, should it be thought an object, any quantity of canvas, rope, or linen, might be made there, provided there were men and women, weavers, flax-dressers, spinners, and rope-makers, with the necessary tools; but destitute as our people were of these aids, all that could be done was to keep in employ the few that could be spared from other essential work. If a machine could be constructed to separate the vegetable covering from the flaxen filaments, any quantity of this useful article might be prepared with great expedition.

by whose weekly labor sixteen yards of canvas the size of No 7 was made. It's worth noting that the women and most of the men could only do this work; the tasks of fertilizing and tending to the fields, the loss of other crops, the various processes involved in making European hemp, and the risks during its growth are all avoided by using this flax, as it requires no cultivation and grows plentifully on all the cliffs of the island (where nothing else can grow) to provide constant jobs for five hundred people. In fact, if it were deemed worthwhile, any amount of canvas, rope, or linen could be produced there, as long as there were men and women who could weave, dress flax, spin, and make rope, along with the necessary tools; however, since our people lacked these resources, all that could be done was to keep employed the few who could be spared from other essential tasks. If a machine could be created to separate the vegetable covering from the flax fibers, any quantity of this useful material could be processed quickly.

View of Sydney in Norfolk Island.

The New Zealanders mentioned in the preceding account of the Flax Manufactory at Norfolk Island, remained, as has been already shown, six months at that settlement. As they resided at the Lieutenant-governor's, and under his constant observation some information respecting New Zealand, and its inhabitants, was procured, which was obligingly communicated by Governor King, in substance as follows:

The New Zealanders mentioned in the previous account of the Flax Manufactory at Norfolk Island stayed at that settlement for six months, as already indicated. Since they lived with the Lieutenant-governor and were under his continuous observation, some information about New Zealand and its people was gathered, which Governor King kindly shared, summarized as follows:

Hoo-doo Co-co-ty To-wa-ma-how-ey is about twenty-four years of age; five feet eight inches high; of an athletic make; his features like those of an European, and very interesting. He is of the district of Teer-a-witte, which, by the chart of Too-gee the other New Zealander, is a district of the same name, but does not lie so far to the southward as the part of Ea-hei-no-mawe, called Teer-a-witte by Captain Cook; for we are certain that Too-gee's residence is about the Bay of Islands; and they both agree that the distance between their dwellings is only two days journey by land, and one day by water.* That part called by Captain Cook Teer-a-witte is at a very considerable distance from the Bay of Islands.

Hoo-doo Co-co-ty To-wa-ma-how-ey is about twenty-four years old, stands five feet eight inches tall, has an athletic build, and his features are similar to those of a European, making him quite interesting. He is from the Teer-a-witte district, which, according to the chart of Too-gee the other New Zealander, shares the same name but is located further north than the part of Ea-hei-no-mawe that Captain Cook referred to as Teer-a-witte; we know for sure that Too-gee lives near the Bay of Islands. Both agree that the distance between their homes is only a two-day journey by land and one day by water.* The area called Teer-a-witte by Captain Cook is actually quite far from the Bay of Islands.

[* Since the return of the Fancy from New Zealand, it appears that Too-gee's residence is at Doubtless Bay, in which place the Fancy anchored, and Too-gee with his wife went on board; but he said that he would not return to Norfolk Island until Lieutenant-governor King came to fetch him. Two lads, at Too-gee's recommendation, were going thither; but as they became sea-sick were set on shore again. Hoo-doo's residence must be between the Bay of Islands and Doubtless Bay, according to the information given by Too-gee to the master of the Fancy.]

[* Since the Fancy returned from New Zealand, it seems that Too-gee is living at Doubtless Bay, where the Fancy anchored, and Too-gee and his wife went on board. However, he stated that he wouldn't go back to Norfolk Island until Lieutenant-governor King came to get him. Two boys, based on Too-gee's suggestion, were heading there, but they got seasick and were taken back to shore. According to the information Too-gee gave to the captain of the Fancy, Hoo-doo's residence must be between the Bay of Islands and Doubtless Bay.]

Hoo-doo is nearly related to Po-vo-reek, who is the principal chief of Teer-a-witte. He had two wives and one child, about whose safety he seemed very apprehensive; and almost every evening at the close of the day, he, as well as Too-gee, lamented their separation in a sort of half-crying and half-singing, expressive of grief, and which was at times very affecting.

Hoo-doo is closely related to Po-vo-reek, the main chief of Teer-a-witte. He had two wives and one child, whose safety he seemed very worried about; and nearly every evening at the end of the day, he, along with Too-gee, expressed their sorrow about being apart in a mix of half-crying and half-singing, which was sometimes quite moving.

Too-gee Te-ter-re-nu-e Warri-pe-do is of-the same age as Hoo-doo; but about three inches shorter; he is stout and well made, and like Hoo-doo of an olive complexion, with strong black hair. Both are tattooed on the hips. Too-gee's features are rather handsome and interesting; his nose is aquinine, and he has good teeth. He is a native of the district of Ho-do-doe, (which is in Doubtless Bay,) of which district Too-gee's father is the Etang-a-roah, or chief priest; and to that office the son succeeds on his father's death. Beside his father, who is a very old man, he has left a wife and child; about all of whom he is very anxious and uneasy, as well as about the chief, (Moo-de-wy,) whom he represents as a very worthy character. Too-gee has a decided preference to Hoo-doo both in disposition and manners; although the latter is not wanting in a certain degree of good-nature, but he can at times be very much of the savage. Hoo-doo, like a true patriot, thinks there is no country, people, nor customs, equal to his own; on which account he is much less curious as to what he sees about him than his companion Too-gee, who has the happy art of insinuating himself into every person's esteem. Except at times, when he is lamenting the absence of his family and friends, he is cheerful, often facetious, and very intelligent. And were it not for the different disposition of Hoo-doo, the most favourable opinion might be formed of the New Zealanders in general. It is not, however, meant to be said, that if Too-gee were not present, an indifferent opinion would have been formed of Hoo-doo; on the contrary, the manners and disposition of the latter are far more pleasing than could have been expected to be found in a native of that country.

Too-gee Te-ter-re-nu-e Warri-pe-do is the same age as Hoo-doo, but about three inches shorter. He is stocky and well-built, and like Hoo-doo, has an olive complexion and strong black hair. Both have tattoos on their hips. Too-gee's features are quite handsome and interesting; he has an aquiline nose and nice teeth. He comes from the district of Ho-do-doe, which is in Doubtless Bay, where his father is the Etang-a-roah, or chief priest. Too-gee will take over that role when his father passes away. Besides his father, who is very old, he has left a wife and child, and he worries about them as well as about the chief, Moo-de-wy, whom he describes as a very honorable person. Too-gee has a distinct preference for Hoo-doo in terms of personality and behavior, even though Hoo-doo isn't entirely lacking in good nature; at times, he can be quite savage. Hoo-doo, being a true patriot, believes no country, people, or customs are better than his own, which makes him less curious about his surroundings compared to Too-gee, who has a knack for endearing himself to everyone. Unless he’s expressing his sorrow over missing his family and friends, Too-gee is cheerful, often witty, and very insightful. If it weren't for Hoo-doo's contrasting personality, one might have a very favorable view of New Zealanders in general. However, it's not to say that without Too-gee, a negative opinion would be formed about Hoo-doo; on the contrary, Hoo-doo's manners and disposition are far more pleasant than one would expect from someone from that country.

At the time they were taken from New Zealand, Too-gee was on a visit to Hoo-doo; and the mode of their capture was thus related by them*: The Daedalus appeared in sight of Hoo-doo's habitation in the afternoon, and was seen the next morning, but at a great distance from the main land. Although she was near two islands which are inhabited, and which Toogee in his chart calls Ko-mootu-Kowa, and Opan-a-ke, curiosity, and the hopes of getting some iron, induced Povoreek the chief, Too-gee, and Hoo-doo, with his brother, one of his wives, and the priest, to launch their canoes. They went first to the largest of the two islands, where they were joined by Tee-ah-wor-rack, the chief of the island, by Komootookowa, who is Hoo-doo's father-in-law, and by the son of that chief who governs the smaller island, called Opan-a-ke. They were some time about the ship before the canoe in which were Too-gee and Hoo-doo ventured alongside, when a number of iron tools and other articles were given into the canoe. The agent, Lieutenant Hanson, (of whose kindness they speak in the highest terms,) invited and pressed them to go on board, with which Too-gee and Hoo-doo were anxious to comply immediately, but were prevented by the persuasion of their countrymen. At length they went on board, and, according to their own expression, they were blinded by the curious things they saw. Lieutenant Hanson prevailed on them to go below, where they ate some meat. At this time the ship made sail. One of them saw the canoes astern; and when they perceived that the ship was leaving them, they both became frantic with grief, and broke the cabin windows with an intention of leaping overboard, but were prevented. While those in the canoes remained within hearing, they advised Povereek to make the best of his way home, for fear that he also should be taken.

At the time they were taken from New Zealand, Too-gee was visiting Hoo-doo, and here’s how they described their capture*: The Daedalus was spotted near Hoo-doo's home in the afternoon and seen again the next morning, but far from the main land. Although it was close to two inhabited islands that Toogee marked on his map as Ko-mootu-Kowa and Opan-a-ke, curiosity and the hope of acquiring some iron prompted Chief Povoreek, Too-gee, Hoo-doo, his brother, one of his wives, and the priest to set their canoes in motion. They first headed to the larger of the two islands, where they were joined by Tee-ah-wor-rack, the chief of the island, by Komootookowa, Hoo-doo's father-in-law, and by the son of the chief who rules the smaller island, called Opan-a-ke. They lingered around the ship for a while before Too-gee and Hoo-doo’s canoe came alongside, at which point several iron tools and other items were handed over. The representative, Lieutenant Hanson, who they praised highly for his kindness, invited and urged them to come on board, which Too-gee and Hoo-doo eagerly wanted to do, but their countrymen persuaded them not to. Eventually, they went aboard, and as they put it, they were overwhelmed by the fascinating things they saw. Lieutenant Hanson encouraged them to go below deck, where they had some meat. At that moment, the ship set sail. One of them noticed the canoes trailing behind, and when they realized the ship was leaving them, both were devastated with grief and tried to break the cabin windows to jump overboard, but they were stopped. While those in the canoes could still hear, they advised Povereek to return home quickly to avoid being taken as well.

[* This account has since been corroborated by Lieutenant Hanson.]

[* This account has since been confirmed by Lieutenant Hanson.]

For some time after their arrival at Norfolk Island they were very sullen, and as anxiously avoided giving any information respecting the flax, as our people were desirous of obtaining it. The apprehension of being obliged to work at it was afterwards found to have been a principal reason for their not complying so readily as was expected. By kind treatment, however, and indulgence in their own inclinations, they soon began to be more sociable. They were then given to understand the situation and short distance of New Zealand from Norfolk Island, and were assured that as soon as they had taught our women 'emou-ka ea-ra-ka-ke,' (i.e. to work the flax), they should be sent home again. On this promise they readily consented to give all the information they possessed, and which turned out to be very little. This operation was found to be among them the peculiar province of the women; and as Hoo-doo was a warrior, and Too-gee a priest, they gave the governor to understand that dressing of flax never made any part of their studies.

For a while after they got to Norfolk Island, they were really down and actively tried to avoid sharing any information about the flax, even though our people really wanted it. They were mainly worried about having to work with it, which turned out to be a big reason why they didn’t cooperate as easily as we hoped. However, after being treated kindly and encouraged to do what they liked, they started to be more friendly. They were informed about the proximity of New Zealand to Norfolk Island and reassured that once they taught our women 'emou-ka ea-ra-ka-ke,' (which means to process the flax), they would be sent back home. With that promise, they agreed to share everything they knew, although it turned out to be very little. They discovered that this task was typically handled by the women, and since Hoo-doo was a warrior and Too-gee a priest, they made it clear to the governor that processing flax was never part of their education.

When they began to understand each other, Too-gee was not only very inquisitive respecting England, etc. (the situation of which, as well as that of New Zealand, Norfolk Island, and Port Jackson, he well knew how to find by means of a coloured general chart); but was also very communicative respecting his own country. Perceiving he was not thoroughly understood, he delineated a sketch of New Zealand with chalk on the floor of a room set apart for that purpose. From a comparison which Governor King made with Captain Cook's plan of those islands, a sufficient similitude to the form of the northern island was discoverable to render this attempt an object of curiosity; and Too-gee was persuaded to describe his delineation on paper. This being done with a pencil, corrections and additions were occasionally made by him, in the course of different conversations; and the names of districts and other remarks were written from his information during the six months he remained there. According to Too-gee's chart and information, Ea-hei-no-maue, the place of his residence, and the northern island of New Zealand, is divided into eight districts governed by their respective chiefs, and others who are subordinate to them. The largest of those districts is T'Souduckey, the inhabitants of which are in a constant state of warfare with the other tribes, in which they are sometimes joined by the people of Moo-doo When-u-a, Tettua Whoo-doo, and Wangaroa; but these tribes are oftener united with those of Choke-han-ga, Teer-a-witte, and Ho-do-doe against T'Souduckey (the bounds of which district Governor King inclines to think is from about Captain Cook's Mount Egmont, to Cape Runaway). They are not, however, without long intervals of peace, at which times they visit, and carry on a traffic for flax and the green talc-stone, of which latter they make axes and ornaments. Toogee obstinately denied that the whole of the New Zealanders were cannibals*; it was not without much difficulty that he could be persuaded to enter on the subject, or to pay the least attention to it; and whenever an inquiry was made, he expressed the greatest horror at the idea. A few weeks after, he was brought to own, that all the inhabitants of Poo-nam-moo (i.e. the southern island) and those of T'Souduckey ate the enemies whom they took in battle, which Hoo-Doo corroborated, for his father was killed and eaten by the T'Souduckey people. 'Notwithstanding the general probity of our visitors, particularly Too-gee, (says Captain King,) I am inclined to think that horrible banquet is general through both islands.'

When they started to really understand each other, Too-gee was not only very curious about England and places like New Zealand, Norfolk Island, and Port Jackson (which he could locate on a colored general map), but he was also very open about his own country. Realizing he wasn’t completely understood, he drew a sketch of New Zealand in chalk on the floor of a room designated for that purpose. By comparing it to Captain Cook's map of those islands, Governor King found that the outline of the northern island was similar enough to pique interest, and Too-gee was convinced to put his drawing on paper. This was done with a pencil, and he made corrections and additions during various conversations over the six months he stayed there. According to Too-gee's chart and information, Ea-hei-no-maue, where he lived, and the northern island of New Zealand are divided into eight districts, each governed by their own chiefs and subordinates. The largest of these districts is T'Souduckey, whose inhabitants are often at war with neighboring tribes, sometimes allying with the people of Moo-doo When-u-a, Tettua Whoo-doo, and Wangaroa. However, these tribes usually team up with Choke-han-ga, Teer-a-witte, and Ho-do-doe against T'Souduckey (which Governor King believes stretches from about Captain Cook's Mount Egmont to Cape Runaway). Despite the constant conflict, there are long periods of peace when they visit each other and trade goods like flax and green talc-stone, which they use to make axes and ornaments. Too-gee stubbornly denied that all New Zealanders were cannibals; it took a lot of persuasion to get him to discuss it or even acknowledge the topic, and whenever it came up, he reacted with horror. A few weeks later, he admitted that all the people of Poo-nam-moo (the southern island) and those from T'Souduckey did eat their enemies taken in battle, which was supported by Hoo-Doo, whose father was killed and eaten by the T'Souduckey people. “Despite the overall honesty of our visitors, especially Too-gee," Captain King remarked, "I suspect that this gruesome practice is widespread across both islands.”

[* During the Fancy's stay in the river Thames, they had many and almost daily proofs of Too-gee's want of veracity on this head.]

[* During the Fancy's time in the River Thames, they had many almost daily demonstrations of Too-gee's lack of honesty regarding this matter.]

Too-gee described a large fresh-water river on the west side of Ea-hei-no-maue; but he said it was a bar river, and not navigable for larger vessels than the war canoes. The river, and the district around it, is called Cho-ke-han-ga. The chief, whose name is To-ko-ha, lives about half-way up on the north side of the river. The country he stated to be covered with pine-trees of an immense size. Captain King says, that he made Too-gee observe, that Captain Cook did not in his voyage notice any river on the west side, although he coasted along very near the shore. On this Too-gee asked with much earnestness, if Captain Cook had seen an island covered with birds. Gannet Island being pointed out, he immediately fixed on Albatross Point as the situation of the river, which Captain Cook's account seems to favour, who says, 'On the north side of this point (Albatross) the shore forms a bay, in which there appears to be anchorage and shelter for shipping.' Governor King on this subject remarks as follows:

Too-gee described a large freshwater river on the west side of Ea-hei-no-maue; however, he mentioned that it was a bar river and not navigable for larger vessels than war canoes. The river and the area around it are called Cho-ke-han-ga. The chief, named To-ko-ha, lives about halfway up on the north side of the river. He noted that the country is covered with enormous pine trees. Captain King pointed out to Too-gee that Captain Cook didn't mention any river on the west side during his voyage, even though he coasted very close to the shore. In response, Too-gee urgently asked if Captain Cook had seen an island filled with birds. When Gannet Island was indicated, he quickly identified Albatross Point as the location of the river, which seems to align with Captain Cook's account, stating, "On the north side of this point (Albatross), the shore forms a bay, in which there appears to be anchorage and shelter for shipping." Governor King remarks on this topic as follows:

The probable situation of this river (if there be one) being thus far ascertained, leads me to suppose, that the district of T'Souduckey extends from Cape Runaway on the east side, to Cape Egmont on the west, and is bounded by Cook's Strait on the south side, which is nearly one half of the northern island. Of the river Thames I could not obtain any satisfactory account; but I have great reason to suppose, that the river he has marked in the district of Wonga-ro-ah is the Thames. Toogee's residence appears to be on the north side of the Bay of Islands, in the district called by him Ho-do-do, which he says contains about a thousand fighting men, and is subject to the following chiefs; i.e. Te-wy-te-wye, Wy-to-ah, Moo-de-wye, Wa-way, To-mo-co-mo-co, Pock-a-roo, and Tee-koo-ra, the latter of whom is the principal chief's son. The subordinate distinctions of persons at New Zealand are as follow: (We are told, that the inferior classes are perfectly subordinate to their superiors; and such I suppose to be the case by the great deference always paid by Too-gee to Hoo-doo.)

The likely situation of this river (if it exists) has been determined to a certain extent, which makes me think that the T'Souduckey district stretches from Cape Runaway on the east side to Cape Egmont on the west, and is bordered by Cook's Strait to the south, covering nearly half of the northern island. I couldn't find any reliable information about the Thames River; however, I have strong reasons to believe that the river marked in the Wonga-ro-ah district is the Thames. Toogee's home seems to be on the north side of the Bay of Islands, in an area he refers to as Ho-do-do, which he claims has about a thousand warriors and is led by the following chiefs: Te-wy-te-wye, Wy-to-ah, Moo-de-wye, Wa-way, To-mo-co-mo-co, Pock-a-roo, and Tee-koo-ra, the latter being the son of the principal chief. The hierarchical distinctions among people in New Zealand are as follows: (We are informed that the lower classes are completely subordinate to their superiors; and I assume this is true given the great respect Too-gee shows to Hoo-doo.)

Etang-a-teda Eti-ket-ti-ca, a principal chief, or man in very great authority. His superior consequence is signified by a repetition of the word eti-ket-ti-ca. This title appears hereditary.

Etang-a-teda Eti-ket-ti-ca, a chief or a person of significant authority. His higher status is indicated by the repetition of the word eti-ket-ti-ca. This title seems to be passed down through generations.

Etanga-roah, or E-ta-hon-ga, a priest, whose authority in many cases is equal, and in some superior to the etiketica.

Etanga-roah, or E-ta-hon-ga, a priest whose authority is often equal to, and sometimes greater than, that of the etiketica.

Etanga-teda Epo-di, a subordinate chief or gentleman.

Etanga-teda Epo-di, a lower-ranking chief or noble.

Ta-ha-ne Emo-ki, a labouring man.'

Ta-ha-ne Emo-ki, a working man.

Respecting the customs and manners of these people, the governor favoured the writer with the following particulars:

Respecting the customs and manners of these people, the governor shared the following details with the writer:

The New Zealanders inter their dead; they also believe that the third day after the interment the heart separates itself from the corpse; and that this separation is announced by a gentle breeze of wind, which gives warning of its approach to an inferior Ea-tooa (or dinity) that hovers over the grave, and who carries it to the clouds. In his chart Too-gee has marked an imaginary road which goes the lengthways of Ea-hei-no-maue, viz from Cook's Strait to the North Cape, which Too-gee calls Terry-inga. While the soul is received by the good Ea-tooa, an evil spirit is also in readiness to carry the impure part of the corpse to the above road, along which it is carried to Terry-inga, whence it is precipitated into the sea.

The New Zealanders bury their dead; they also believe that on the third day after burial, the heart separates from the body, and this separation is signaled by a gentle breeze that warns an inferior deity hovering over the grave, who then takes it to the clouds. In his chart, Too-gee has drawn an imaginary path that runs along Ea-hei-no-maue, from Cook's Strait to the North Cape, which Too-gee refers to as Terry-inga. While the good deity receives the soul, an evil spirit is also ready to take the tainted part of the body along the path to Terry-inga, where it is then cast into the sea.

Suicide is very common among the New Zealanders, and this they often commit by hanging themselves on the slightest occasions; thus a woman who has been beaten by her husband will perhaps hang herself immediately. In this mode of putting an end to their existence, both our visitors seemed to be perfect adepts, having often threatened to hang themselves, and sometimes made very serious promises of putting it into execution if they were not sent to their own country. As these threats, however, were used in their gloomy moments, they were soon laughed out of them.

Suicide is quite common among New Zealanders, and they often resort to hanging themselves over the slightest triggers; for example, a woman who has been abused by her husband might hang herself right away. In this method of ending their lives, both of our visitors seemed to be quite skilled, having frequently threatened to hang themselves and even made serious promises to follow through if they weren't sent back to their home country. However, since these threats were made during their low moments, they were soon laughed off.

Facsimile of a chart of New Zealand, drawn by Too-gee.

Copy of a map of New Zealand, created by Too-gee.

It could not be discovered that they have any other division of time than the revolution of the moon, until the number amounted to one hundred, which they term "Ta-iee E-tow," i.e. one Etow or hundred moons; and it is thus they count their age, and calculate all other events.

It couldn't be found that they have any other way of keeping track of time besides the moon's cycles until the count reached one hundred, which they call "Ta-iee E-tow," meaning one Etow or a hundred moons; this is how they measure their age and figure out all other events.

Hoo-doo and Too-gee both agreed that a great quantity of manufactured flax might be obtained for trifles*, such as axes, chisels, etc., and said, that in most places the flax grows naturally in great quantities; in other parts it is cultivated by separating the roots, and planting them out, three in one hole, at the distance of a foot from each other. They give a decided preference to the flax-plant that grows here, both for quantity and size.

Hoo-doo and Too-gee both agreed that a large amount of manufactured flax could be obtained for very little, like axes, chisels, and so on. They mentioned that in many places, flax grows naturally in abundance; in other areas, it's cultivated by separating the roots and planting them three in one hole, about a foot apart. They strongly prefer the flax plant that grows here, both for its quantity and size.

[* This circumstance all the people belonging to the Fancy fully confirmed; for during the three months that vessel lay in the Thames, they replaced all their running-rigging by ropes made of the flax-plant.]

[* Everyone in the Fancy fully confirmed this situation; because during the three months that the vessel was in the Thames, they replaced all their running rigging with ropes made from the flax plant.]

It may be expected (says Governor King) that after a six months acquaintance between us and the two New Zealanders, we should not be ignorant of each other's language. Myself and some of the officers (who were so kind as to communicate the observations they obtained from our visitors) could make our ideas known, and tolerably well understood by them. They too, by intermixing what English words they knew with what we knew of their language, could make themselves sufficiently understood by us. During the time they were with us I did not possess any account of Captain Cook's voyages; but since their departure, I find from his first voyage, that it has great similitude to the general language spoken in those seas. The vocabulary which I have appended to these memoranda was collected by myself and the surgeon, and is, I believe, very correct, particularly the numerals. Much other information was given us by our two friends; but as it may be liable to great errors, I forbear repeating it.

It can be expected (says Governor King) that after six months of getting to know each other, we wouldn’t be clueless about each other's language. My fellow officers (who kindly shared what they learned from our visitors) and I could express our thoughts and were mostly understood by them. They, in turn, mixed the English words they knew with what we understood of their language to communicate well enough with us. While they were here, I didn’t have any records of Captain Cook's voyages; however, since they left, I’ve learned from his first voyage that it resembles the general language used in those regions. The vocabulary I’ve attached to these notes was gathered by me and the surgeon, and I believe it’s quite accurate, especially the numbers. Our two friends provided us with a lot of other information, but since it might contain significant inaccuracies, I won’t repeat it.

It has been already said*[Footnote refers to Page 347 of the book, but there was no reference to this subject on that page. Ed.], that Governor King went himself to New Zealand to return Hoo-doo and Too-gee to their country and friends. The following are the governor's remarks on his voyage thither:

It has already been mentioned*[Footnote refers to Page 347 of the book, but there was no reference to this subject on that page. Ed.], that Governor King traveled to New Zealand to return Hoo-doo and Too-gee to their homeland and friends. Here are the governor's comments on his journey there:

Having rounded the north cape of New Zealand on the 12th of November 1793, the fourth day after leaving Norfolk, we saw a number of houses and a small hippah on an island which lies off the north cape, and called by Too-gee, Moo-de Moo-too. Soon after we opened a very considerable hippah or fortified place, situated on a high round hill, just within the cape, whence six large canoes were seen coming toward the ship. As soon as they came within hail, Too-gee was known by those in the canoes, which were soon increased to seven, with upwards of twenty men in each. They came alongside without any intreaty, and those who came on board were much rejoiced to meet with Too-gee whose first and earnest inquiries were after his family and chief. On those heads he received the most satisfactory intelligence from a woman, who, as he informed us, was a near relation of his mother. His father and chief were still inconsolable for his loss; the latter (whom Too-gee always mentioned in the most respectful manner) had been about a fortnight past on a visit to the chief of the hippah above mentioned, where he remained four days; and Te-wy-te-wye, the principal chief of Too-gee's district, was daily expected. With this information he was much pleased. It was remarked, that although there were upward of a hundred New Zealanders on board and alongside, yet Too-gee confined his caresses and conversation to his mother's relation, and one or two chiefs, who were distinguished by the marks (a-mo-ko) on their faces, and by the respectful behaviour which was shown them by the emokis (i.e. the working men who paddled the canoes, and who at times were beaten most unmercifully by the chiefs. To those who by Too-gee's account were epodis (subaltern chiefs), and well known to him, I gave some chissels, hand-axes, and other articles equally acceptable. A traffic soon commenced. Pieces of old iron hoop were given in exchange for abundance of manufactured flax, cloth, patoo-patoos, spears, talc ornaments, paddles, fish-hooks, and lines. At seven in the evening they left us, and we made sail with a light breeze at west, intending to run for the Bay of Islands (which we understood was Too-gee's residence,) and from which we were twenty-four leagues distant. At nine o'clock a canoe with four men came alongside, and jumped on board without any fear. The master of the Britannia being desirous to obtain their canoe, the bargain was soon concluded (with Too-gee's assistance) much to the satisfaction of the proprietors, who did not discover the least reluctance at sleeping on board, and being carried to a distance from their homes. Our new guests very satisfactorily corroborated all the circumstances that Too-gee had heard before. After supper Too-gee and Hoo-doo asked the strangers for the news of their country since they had been taken away. This was complied with by the four strangers, who began a song, in which each of them took a part, sometimes using fierce and savage gestures, and at other times sinking their voices, according to the different passages or events that they were relating. Hoo-doo, who was paying great attention to the subject of their song, suddenly burst into tears, occasioned by an account which they were giving of the T'Souduckey tribe having made an irruption on Teer-a-witte (Hoo doo's district) and killed the chief's son with thirty warriors. He was too much affected to hear more; but retired into a corner of the cabin, where he gave vent to his grief, which was only interrupted by his threats of revenge.

Having rounded the north cape of New Zealand on November 12, 1793, just four days after leaving Norfolk, we spotted several houses and a small fortified village on an island off the north cape, which was called Too-gee, Moo-de Moo-too. Soon after, we discovered a large fortified site situated on a high round hill just within the cape, from which six large canoes were seen approaching the ship. As they got closer, those in the canoes recognized Too-gee, and soon there were seven canoes with over twenty men in each. They came alongside without any invitation, and those who boarded the ship were delighted to see Too-gee, whose first and urgent questions were about his family and chief. He received very satisfying news from a woman who, he told us, was a close relative of his mother. His father and chief were still heartbroken over his loss; the latter (whom Too-gee always referred to respectfully) had visited the chief of the aforementioned fortified site about two weeks earlier, where he stayed for four days; and Te-wy-te-wye, the main chief of Too-gee's district, was expected any day. Too-gee was happy with this information. It was noted that even though there were over a hundred New Zealanders on board and alongside, Too-gee focused his affection and conversation on his mother’s relative and one or two chiefs, who were recognized by the markings on their faces and the respectful treatment they received from the working men (the emokis) who paddled the canoes and were sometimes treated harshly by the chiefs. To those whom Too-gee referred to as subaltern chiefs (epodis) and who were well-known to him, I gave some chisels, hand-axes, and other similarly appreciated items. Trade quickly began. Pieces of old iron hoop were exchanged for a lot of manufactured flax, cloth, patoo-patoos, spears, talc ornaments, paddles, fish-hooks, and lines. They left us by seven in the evening, and we set sail with a light breeze from the west, planning to head for the Bay of Islands (which we understood was Too-gee’s home) and which was twenty-four leagues away. At nine o'clock, a canoe with four men came alongside and hopped on board without any fear. The captain of the Britannia, wanting to acquire their canoe, quickly made a deal (with Too-gee's assistance) that pleased the owners, who showed no hesitation in sleeping on board and being taken far from home. Our new guests confirmed everything that Too-gee had heard earlier. After dinner, Too-gee and Hoo-doo asked the newcomers for news from their homeland since they had been taken away. The four strangers obliged by starting a song, in which each participated, at times making fierce and savage gestures, and at other moments lowering their voices, depending on the different parts or events they were recounting. Hoo-doo, who was paying close attention to their song, suddenly burst into tears when they recounted how the T'Souduckey tribe had raided Teer-a-witte (Hoo-doo's district) and killed the chief's son along with thirty warriors. He was too overwhelmed to listen any longer and retreated to a corner of the cabin, where he expressed his sorrow, interrupted only by his threats of revenge.

Owing to calm weather, little progress was made during the night. At daylight on the 13th, a number of canoes were seen coming from the hippah; in the largest of which was thirty-six men and a chief, who was standing up making signals with great earnestness. On his coming alongside, Too-gee recognised the chief to be Ko-to-ko-ke, who is the etiketica, or principal chief of the hippah whence the boats had come the preceding evening. The old chief, who appeared to be about seventy years of age, had not a visible feature, the whole of his face being tatooed with spiral lines. At his coming on board he embraced Too-gee with great affection; Too-gee then introduced me to him; and after the ceremony of 'ehong-i,' i.e. joining noses, he took off his ah-a-how, or mantle, and put it on my shoulders. In return I gave him a mantle made of green baize, and decorated with broad arrows. Soon after seven, other canoes, with upwards of twenty men and women in each, came alongside. At Too-gee's desire the poop was 'eta-boo,' i.e. all access to it by any others than the old chief forbidden. Not long before Ko-to-ko-ke came on board, I asked Too-gee and Hoo-doo if they would return to Norfolk Island or land at Moo-dee When-u-a in case the calm continued, or the wind came from the southward, of which there was some appearance. Too-gee was much averse to either. His reason for not returning to Norfolk was the natural wish to see his family and chief, nor did he like the idea of being landed at Moo-dee When-u-a, as, notwithstanding what he had heard respecting the good understanding there was between his district and that of Moo-dee When-u-a, the information might turn out to be not strictly true. Nothing more was said about it; and it was my intention to land them nearer to their homes, if it could be done in the course of the day, although it was then a perfect calm. Soon after the chief came on board they told me with tears of joy that they wished to go with Ko-toko-ke, who had fully confirmed all they had heard before, and had promised to take them the next morning to Too-gee's residence, where they would arrive by night. To wait the event of the calm, or the wind coming from the northward, might have detained the ship some days longer. Could I have reached in four days from leaving Norfolk the place where Too-gee lived, I certainly should have landed him there; but that not being the case (as this was the fifth day) I did not consider myself justifiable in detaining the ship longer than was absolutely necessary to land them in a place of safety, and from which they might get to their homes.

Due to calm weather, little progress was made during the night. At dawn on the 13th, several canoes were spotted coming from the hippah; in the largest canoe were thirty-six men and a chief who was standing up and signaling vigorously. When he came alongside, Too-gee recognized him as Ko-to-ko-ke, the principal chief of the hippah from which the boats had arrived the previous evening. The old chief, who looked about seventy years old, had a completely tattooed face decorated with spiral lines. Upon coming on board, he warmly embraced Too-gee; Too-gee then introduced me to him, and after the 'ehong-i' ceremony, which involved joining noses, he took off his ah-a-how, or mantle, and placed it over my shoulders. In return, I gave him a mantle made of green baize marked with broad arrows. Shortly after seven, more canoes with over twenty men and women each came alongside. At Too-gee's request, access to the poop was restricted, meaning only the old chief was allowed. Before Ko-to-ko-ke came on board, I asked Too-gee and Hoo-doo if they would want to return to Norfolk Island or land at Moo-dee When-u-a if the calm continued or if the wind shifted to the south, which seemed likely. Too-gee was very opposed to either option. He wanted to see his family and chief and did not like the idea of being dropped off at Moo-dee When-u-a, as he wasn’t sure about the supposed good relations between his district and Moo-dee When-u-a—what he had heard might not be entirely true. No more was said about it; my plan was to take them closer to their homes if possible that day, even though it was completely calm at that moment. After the chief came on board, they excitedly told me with tears of joy that they wanted to go with Ko-to-ko-ke, who had confirmed everything they’d heard before and promised to take them the next morning to Too-gee's home, where they would arrive by night. Waiting for the calm to change or for the wind to come from the north might delay the ship for several more days. If I could have reached Too-gee's place within four days after leaving Norfolk, I would have landed him there; but since this was the fifth day, I didn’t think it was right to keep the ship longer than absolutely necessary to safely land them where they might get to their homes.

Notwithstanding the information Too-gee had received, and the confidence he placed in the chief, I felt much anxiety about our two friends, and expressed to Too-gee my apprehensions that what he had heard might be an invention of Ko-to-ko-ke's and his people to get them and their effects into their power. I added, that as the ship could not be detained longer, I would rather take them back than leave them in the hands of suspicious people. To this Too-gee replied with an honest confidence, that 'etiketica no eteka,' i.e. a chief never deceives. I then took the chief into the cabin, and explained to him, assisted by Too-gee (who was present with Hoo-doo), how much I was interested in their getting to Ho-do-do; and added, that in two or three moons I should return to Ho-do-do, and if I found Too-gee and Hoo-doo were safe arrived with their effects, I would then return to Moo-dee When-u-a and make him some very considerable presents, in addition to those which I should now give him and his people for their trouble in conducting our two friends to their residence. I had so much reason to be convinced of the old man's sincerity, that I considered it injurious to threaten him with punishment for failing in his engagement. The only answer Ko-to-ko-ke made was, by putting both his hands to the sides of my head (making me perform the same ceremony) and joining our noses; in which position we remained three minutes, the old chief muttering what I did not understand. After this he went through the same ceremony with our two friends, which ended with a dance, when the two latter joined noses with me, and said that Ko-to-ko-ke was now become their father, and would in person conduct them to Ho-do-doe.* While I was preparing what I meant to give them, Too-gee (who I am now convinced was a priest) had made a circle of the New Zealanders round him, in the centre of which was the old chief, and recounted what he had seen during his absence. At many passages they gave a shout of admiration. On his telling them, that it was only three days sail from Norfolk to Moo-doo When-u-a, whether his veracity was doubted, or that he was not contented with the assertion alone, I cannot tell, but with much presence of mind he ran upon the poop, and brought a cabbage, which he informed them was cut five days ago in my garden. This convincing proof produced a general shout of surprise.

Despite the information Too-gee had received and his trust in the chief, I felt quite anxious about our two friends and shared my concerns with Too-gee, suggesting that what he heard might be a scheme by Ko-to-ko-ke and his people to take control of them and their belongings. I added that since the ship couldn’t stay any longer, I’d prefer to bring them back rather than leave them with untrustworthy individuals. Too-gee honestly responded, saying, 'etiketica no eteka,' meaning a chief never lies. I then took the chief into the cabin and explained to him, with Too-gee (who was with Hoo-doo) assisting, how much I cared about their journey to Ho-do-do. I mentioned that in two or three months, I would return to Ho-do-do, and if I found out that Too-gee and Hoo-doo had safely arrived with their belongings, I would then go back to Moo-dee When-u-a and give him significant gifts, in addition to what I would soon offer him and his people for their help in bringing our two friends to their home. I had so much reason to trust the old man's honesty that I thought it would be unfair to threaten him with punishment for not fulfilling his promise. The only response Ko-to-ko-ke gave was to place both his hands on the sides of my head (making me do the same) and touch our noses together, a position we maintained for three minutes while the old chief muttered something I didn’t understand. He then repeated the same act with our two friends, which culminated in a dance, during which they joined noses with me and declared that Ko-to-ko-ke was now their father and would personally lead them to Ho-do-doe.* While I was getting ready to give them my gifts, Too-gee (who I now believe was a priest) formed a circle of New Zealanders around him, with the old chief in the middle, and recounted what he had experienced during his absence. They erupted in shouts of admiration at various points. When he mentioned that it was only three days' sail from Norfolk to Moo-doo When-u-a, I’m not sure if his truthfulness was questioned or if they just wanted more proof, but with quick thinking, he ran to the poop deck and brought back a cabbage, claiming it was cut five days ago from my garden. This convincing evidence elicited a collective shout of surprise.

[* Which was very faithfully performed.]

[* Which was carried out very faithfully.]

Every thing being now arranged, and ready for their departure, our two friends requested that Ko-to-ko-ke might see the soldiers exercise and fire. To this I could have no objection, as the request came from them; but I took that opportunity of explaining to the chief (with Toogee's help) that he might see, by our treatment of him and his two countrymen, that it was our wish and intention to be good neighbours and friends with all Ea-hei-no-mau-e; that these weapons were never used but when we were injured, which I hoped would never happen; and that no other consideration than the satisfying of his curiosity could induce me to show what those instruments were intended for.

Everything is now arranged and ready for their departure, so our two friends asked if Ko-to-ko-ke could watch the soldiers practice and fire. I had no objections since the request came from them; however, I took that opportunity to explain to the chief (with Toogee's help) that, by how we treated him and his two countrymen, he could see that we wanted to be good neighbors and friends with all Ea-hei-no-mau-e. I emphasized that we only used these weapons when we were harmed, which I hoped would never happen, and that the only reason to show him what those instruments were for was to satisfy his curiosity.

About one hundred and fifty of the New Zealanders were seated on the larboard side of the deck, and the detachment paraded on the opposite side. After going through the manual, and firing three volleys, two great guns were fired, one loaded with a single ball, and the other with grape-shot, which surprised them greatly, as I made the chief observe the distance at which the shot fell from the ship. The wind had now the appearance of coming from the southward; and as that wind throws a great surf on the shore, they were anxious to get away. Too-gee and Hoo-doo took an affectionate leave of every person on board, and made me remember my promise of visiting them again, when they would return to Norfolk Island with their families. The venerable chief, after having taken great pains to pronounce my name, and made me well acquainted with his, got into his canoe and left us. On putting off from the ship, they were saluted with three cheers, which they returned as well as they could, by Toogee's directions. It was now seven in the morning of the 13th: at nine a breeze came from the north, with which we stood to the eastward. After a passage of five days from New Zealand (having had light winds) and ten days absence from Norfolk Island, I landed at three o'clock in the afternoon of the 18th.

About one hundred and fifty New Zealanders were sitting on the left side of the deck, while the troop was lined up on the other side. After going through the drill and firing three volleys, two large cannons were fired—one loaded with a single ball and the other with grape-shot. This really surprised them, as I had the chief notice the distance at which the shot landed from the ship. The wind was starting to come from the south, and since that wind creates a big surf on the shore, they were eager to leave. Too-gee and Hoo-doo said goodbye to everyone on board warmly, and they reminded me of my promise to visit them again when they returned to Norfolk Island with their families. The respected chief, after making a great effort to pronounce my name correctly and letting me know his, got into his canoe and left us. As they set off from the ship, they were greeted with three cheers, which they returned as best they could at Toogee's direction. It was now seven in the morning on the 13th; by nine, a breeze came from the north, and we headed east. After a five-day journey from New Zealand (with light winds) and ten days away from Norfolk Island, I landed at three o'clock in the afternoon on the 18th.

The little intercourse that I had with the New Zealanders (as I was only eighteen hours off that island, twelve of which were in the night) does not enable me to say much respecting them, or to form any decisive opinion of them, as much of their friendly behaviour in this slight interview might be owing to our connexion with Too-gee and Hoo-doo, and their being with us. These two worthy savages (if the term may be allowed) will, I am confident, ever retain the most grateful remembrance of the kindnesses they received on Norfolk Island; and if the greater part of the countrymen have but a small portion of the amiable disposition of Too-gee and Hoo-doo, they certainly are a people between whom and the English colonists a good understanding may with common prudence and precaution be cultivated. I regret very much that the service on which the Britannia was ordered did not permit me to detain her longer; as in a few days, with the help of our two friends, much useful information might have been obtained respecting the quantity of manufactured flax that might be procured, which I think would be of high importance if better known. The great quantity that was procured in exchange for small pieces of iron hoop is a proof, that an abundance of this valuable article is manufactured among them.

The limited interaction I had with the New Zealanders (since I was only eighteen hours away from the island, twelve of which were during the night) doesn't allow me to say much about them or form a solid opinion. Much of their friendly behavior during our brief encounter might be due to our association with Too-gee and Hoo-doo, who were with us. I believe these two honorable individuals (if that term is acceptable) will always remember the kindness they received on Norfolk Island. If most of their fellow countrymen share even a fraction of the amiable nature of Too-gee and Hoo-doo, then there is certainly potential for a good relationship to be fostered between them and the English colonists, with some caution and common sense. I truly regret that the mission the Britannia was assigned to didn't allow me to keep her longer; in just a few days, with the help of our two friends, we could have gathered a lot of useful information about the amount of manufactured flax that could be obtained, which I think would be very important to know. The large quantity that was exchanged for small pieces of iron hoop shows that there is a significant production of this valuable material among them.

The articles that I gave Too-gee and Hoo-doo consisted of hand-axes; a small assortment of carpenters' tools, six spades, some hoes, with a few knives, scissors, and razors; two bushels of maize, one of wheat, two of peas, and a quantity of garden feeds; ten young sows, and two boars, which Too-gee and the chief faithfully promised should be preserved for breeding, a promise which I am inclined to think they will strictly observe.*

The items I gave Too-gee and Hoo-doo included some hand-axes, a small selection of carpentry tools, six spades, a few hoes, along with knives, scissors, and razors; two bushels of corn, one of wheat, two of peas, and a variety of garden seeds; ten young female pigs and two male pigs, which Too-gee and the chief promised to keep for breeding. I believe they will stick to their promise.

[* The first place the Fancy made at New Zealand was Doubtless Bay, which the master describes as a very dangerous place for a vessel to go into, and still worse to lie at, as it is open to the easterly winds. On their coming to an anchor, which was not till late in the evening (in December 1795), several canoes came round the vessel, but did not venture alongside until Too-gee was inquired for, when the New Zealanders exclaimed 'My-ty Governor King! My-ty Too-gee! My-ty Hoo-doo!' Some went on board, and others put in to shore, returning soon after with Too-gee and his wife. He had not forgotten his English, at least the more common expressions. He informed Captain Dell, that he had one pig remaining alive, and some peas growing; but what became of the rest of his stock he did not say. As Doubtless Bay was found a bad place to remain in, the Fancy endeavoured to get out, but was obliged to return, when the two lads who wished to see Norfolk Island, being sea-sick, left her.]

[* The first place the Fancy reached in New Zealand was Doubtless Bay, which the captain described as a very dangerous area for a ship to enter and even worse to stay in because it's exposed to easterly winds. When they eventually anchored there, late in the evening (in December 1795), several canoes approached the ship but didn’t come alongside until Too-gee was mentioned. The New Zealanders shouted, 'My-ty Governor King! My-ty Too-gee! My-ty Hoo-doo!' Some people boarded the ship, while others went to shore, returning shortly after with Too-gee and his wife. He still remembered some English, at least the more common phrases. He told Captain Dell that he had one pig still alive and some peas growing, but he didn’t mention what happened to the rest of his animals. Since Doubtless Bay was deemed a bad place to stay, the Fancy tried to leave but had to turn back when the two boys who wanted to see Norfolk Island became seasick and left her.]

A SHORT VOCABULARY OF THE NEW ZEALAND LANGUAGE

A BRIEF VOCABULARY OF THE NEW ZEALAND LANGUAGE

NEW ZEALAND             ENGLISH
-----------             -------

E-ha-ha                 Fire
E-when-ua               Earth, or ground
E-wy                    Water
E-mu-da                 Flame of thefire
E-dou-ma-te             Summer
E-ho-ho-tou-ke          Winter
E-ma-ran-gi             North
E-sow-how-oo-doo        South
E-ton-ga                East
E-te-hu                 West
E-te-te-do              To see
E-don-go                To hear
E-do-rni-do-mi          To feel
E-hon-gi                To smell
E-mei-te                To taste
He-te-te-show or
Ye-te-de-how            New moon
E-po-po-e-e-nue         Full moon
E-de-de-ke              Last quarter of the moon
E-ma-ra-ma              The moon
E-da                    Sun
E-pu-ta                 Sun-rise
E-a-wa-tere             Noon
E-a-hi-au, or E-po      Sunset
E-wha-tu                Star
Ye-rew-a-new-a          Rainbow
E-Ma-tan-gee            Wind
E-bu-a                  Rain
E-ue-da                 Lightning
E-wet-e-te-cla          Thunder
Em-ma-ha-ne             Hot
Ma-ka-ree-dee           Cold
E-ko-how                Fog
E-po-ka-ka              Dew
E-paw-ha                Smoke
E-mo-an-na              Salt water or the sea
E-a-o                   The day
E-po                    The night
E-co-pec-ce             To freeze, or ice
E-wha-tu                Snow
In-an-hal               Yesterday
N'A-goo-nal             To-day
A-po-po                 To-morrow
A-ta-hy-da              Day after to-morrow
A-wa-ka                 Day following
A-wa-ke-ett ue          Four days hence
E-hon-gi                The ceremony of joining noses as a salute
Yen-gang                The head
He'-ho-do-ho-do         The hair of the head
Eta-din-ga              The ear
Etoude-Eta-din-ga       Deaf
E-da-ha                 The Forehead
Ca-no-wei or
E-ca-no-che             The eye
E-pu-di E'Ca-no-wei     Blind
Pa-pa-reen-gi           The cheek
Ec-Eee-shu              The nose
E-cou-wye               The beard
E-ka-ke                 The neck
Po-co-fee-fee or
Edinga-ringa            The arm
E-dal-ee                The breast
He-ooo (lengthened out) The nipple
E-pee-too               The navel
Eu-wa                   The thigh
E-tu-di-po-na or
Ewa-wye                 The leg
E-mata-ka-ra            The fingers
E-coro-E-te             Finger-nails
He-i-a-dar-re           The skin
Ing-oo-too              The lips
E-wa-ha                 The mouth
In-ni-show              The teeth
Ecoro-coro              The throat
E-pa-ro                 The hand
E-co-pu                 The belly
E-to-to                 Blood
E-tu-di-po-na           Knees
E-da-pa-ra-pa           The feet
E-too-o-ra              The back
E-cu-mo                 The backside
E-kau-wal               The chin
E-ki                    The mouth
E-u-de                  The penis
E-ai                    The vulva
E-tek-ke                To copulate
E-ma-mi                 To go to make water
E-tu-tal                To go to stool
Pa-ke-da                Bald-headed
E-sha-pu                Pregnant
E-ko-ki                 A cripple
E-ka-ta                 To laugh
E-tan-ge                To cry
E-too-ha                To spit
E-co-we-ra              To breathe
E-ma-my                 To groan
E-sha, (sounded
expressive of the
action)                 To sigh
Te-zee-ou-wa, (sounded
expressive of)          Sneezing*

NEW ZEALAND             ENGLISH
-----------             -------

E-ha-ha                 Fire  
E-when-ua               Earth, or ground  
E-wy                    Water  
E-mu-da                 Flame of the fire  
E-dou-ma-te             Summer  
E-ho-ho-tou-ke          Winter  
E-ma-ran-gi             North  
E-sow-how-oo-do        South  
E-ton-ga                East  
E-te-hu                 West  
E-te-te-do              To see  
E-don-go                To hear  
E-do-rni-do-mi          To feel  
E-hon-gi                To smell  
E-mei-te                To taste  
He-te-te-show or  
Ye-te-de-how            New moon  
E-po-po-e-e-nue         Full moon  
E-de-de-ke              Last quarter of the moon  
E-ma-ra-ma              The moon  
E-da                    Sun  
E-pu-ta                 Sun-rise  
E-a-wa-tere             Noon  
E-a-hi-au, or E-po      Sunset  
E-wha-tu                Star  
Ye-rew-a-new-a          Rainbow  
E-Ma-tan-gee            Wind  
E-bu-a                  Rain  
E-ue-da                 Lightning  
E-wet-e-te-cla          Thunder  
Em-ma-ha-ne             Hot  
Ma-ka-ree-dee           Cold  
E-ko-how                Fog  
E-po-ka-ka              Dew  
E-paw-ha                Smoke  
E-mo-an-na              Salt water or the sea  
E-a-o                   The day  
E-po                    The night  
E-co-pec-ce             To freeze, or ice  
E-wha-tu                Snow  
In-an-hal               Yesterday  
N'A-goo-nal             Today  
A-po-po                 Tomorrow  
A-ta-hy-da              Day after tomorrow  
A-wa-ka                 Day following  
A-wa-ke-ett ue          Four days hence  
E-hon-gi                The ceremony of joining noses as a salute  
Yen-gang                The head  
He'-ho-do-ho-do         The hair of the head  
Eta-din-ga              The ear  
Etoude-Eta-din-ga       Deaf  
E-da-ha                 The forehead  
Ca-no-wei or  
E-ca-no-che             The eye  
E-pu-di E'Ca-no-wei     Blind  
Pa-pa-reen-gi           The cheek  
Ec-Eee-shu              The nose  
E-cou-wye               The beard  
E-ka-ke                 The neck  
Po-co-fee-fee or  
Edinga-ringa            The arm  
E-dal-ee                The breast  
He-ooo (lengthened out) The nipple  
E-pee-too               The navel  
Eu-wa                   The thigh  
E-tu-di-po-na or  
Ewa-wye                 The leg  
E-mata-ka-ra            The fingers  
E-coro-E-te             Finger-nails  
He-i-a-dar-re           The skin  
Ing-oo-too              The lips  
E-wa-ha                 The mouth  
In-ni-show              The teeth  
Ecoro-coro              The throat  
E-pa-ro                 The hand  
E-co-pu                 The belly  
E-to-to                 Blood  
E-tu-di-po-na           Knees  
E-da-pa-ra-pa           The feet  
E-too-o-ra              The back  
E-cu-mo                 The backside  
E-kau-wal               The chin  
E-ki                    The mouth  
E-u-de                  The penis  
E-ai                    The vulva  
E-tek-ke                To copulate  
E-ma-mi                 To urinate  
E-tu-tal                To defecate  
Pa-ke-da                Bald-headed  
E-sha-pu                Pregnant  
E-ko-ki                 A cripple  
E-ka-ta                 To laugh  
E-tan-ge                To cry  
E-too-ha                To spit  
E-co-we-ra              To breathe  
E-ma-my                 To groan  
E-sha, (sounded  
expressive of the  
action)                 To sigh  
Te-zee-ou-wa, (sounded  
expressive of)          Sneezing*

[* A compliment is paid by the New Zealanders when one of the company
sneezes, by repeating the following lines:
'Tee-zee, Tee-zee, Pa-way, Pa-way,
wa-cou-te-ma-he co-to-ko-eee,
drawn out very long.
'Tu-tu-ro a-te na tan-ga-ta kiti-po,
Tu-tu-ra ma-hie na-ta-na-ta kit-eao
Tee-zee, Tee-zee, etc.' as in the first line.
All which means wishes for health from night to morning, and that
no bones may be broken by the shock of sneezing.]

[* New Zealanders give a compliment when someone sneezes by repeating this line:
'Tee-zee, Tee-zee, Pa-way, Pa-way,
wa-cou-te-ma-he co-to-ko-eee,
drawn out very long.
'Tu-tu-ro a-te na tan-ga-ta kiti-po,
Tu-tu-ra ma-hie na-ta-na-ta kit-eao
Tee-zee, Tee-zee, etc., as in the first line.
This expresses wishes for health from night to morning and that
no bones may be broken from the force of the sneeze.]

E-co-show                To hiccough
E-mo-a                   To sleep
E-ta-ko-te               To lie down to sleep
E-a-ra                   To rise from sleep
E-kow-hae-ra             To yawn
E-to-u                   To break wind
E-ku-pa                  To belch
E-du-a-ke                To puke
E-da-hee                 Fat
Eet pronounced
as Eat                   Lean
E-o-ra                   In health
E-mat-tee means
also death               Sick
E-pi                     Handsome, also clean
E-ke-no                  Ugly, also dirty
E-ni-a-ymi               Pain in general
In-ni-shou E-to-on-ga    Tooth-ache
E-hu-de                  Head-ache
E-de-ka-ra-ka            An itching
E-huf-fe                 Love
He-de-de                 Hatred, or being dissatisfied
He-ma-ta-kd              Fear
E-ka-tou                 Joy
E-ko-ko-pe               Shame
E-kow-wa                 Loathing
E-wa-ra-wa-ra            An error or mistake
E-ko-cut                 A cut
E-mo-to                  A blow
E-hou-dang-e             To faint
He-kye                   To eat
E-e-nue                  To drink
E-matta-he-a-kye         Hungry
Ka-ke                    Satisfied
E-i-ra                   To walk
E-o-mu                   To run
E-da-re                  To jump
E-ka-ou                  To swim
E-tu-ta-ke               To meet any one
Ke-o-ro-mi               To make haste
E-no-ho                  To sit down
E-tu                     Standing up
E-mo-ki                  To work
Ka-ko-p-1                To shut a door
Eu-wa-ke                 To open
E-de-ding-ee             To sell
E-o-mi                   To give or reach
Wha-ka-de-de             I'll give you
Z'Shocke-e-mai           Ditto
E-wa-k-a-tu              To plant
E-o-hoo-tee              To pluck up
E-da-fe                  To tie or bind
E-wa-wat-te              Untie
E-ma-ca                  To throw away
E-te-te-do               To look or observe
E-ko-re                  To break any thing, as a plate
E-what-te                To break any thing, as a stick
E-hi-yi                  To tear, as paper
Car-co-ree               To pull down or destroy,
                         as a building, ship, etc
E-ko-cout                To cut
Ing-ha-roo               To see or look for
E-hu-na                  To hide
Ea-ke-tere               To find
E-ke-no                  To stain or dirty any thing
E-moo-roo                To clean
Eo-roo-ee                To wash
E-yhang-a                To build a house or boat
E-ka-wa                  Ill-tasted, bitter
He-i-de-mal!             Come here!
Sey-ede or E-i-ra        To go
E-ko-re-roo              To converse
Pat-too pat-too          To beat, also the name of a principal weapon
E-te-ka                  To tell a lie
E-po-no                  To tell truth
E-wa-ka                  A canoe
E-shoo                   To paddle a canoe
E-1-ka                   A fish
E-a-ho                   To catch a fish
E-wa-du                  A fish-hook made of wood
E-ma-ka                  A fishing-line
E-nue                    Big, large
E-mo-ro-ee-te            Small
My-ty                    Good
Mack-row-a               Bad
Ki-e-dow                 Fit to eat
E-whan-na                To kick
E-ha-ka                  To dance
E-wy-ette                To sing
E-wa-du                  To dream
E-ta-po-ke               To drown
E-ka-ya                  To steal
E-ta-ro-na               To hang one's self
E-ee-ta                  I understand
Na?                      Do you mean this?
Ha ya-ha                 What is this?
Ko-ai                    Who is this?
An-ga                    There
Pah-hee                  A ship, or very large canoe
E-whar-re                A house
E-ta-o                   A spear
E-da-kow                 A tree, or piece of wood
E-ma-ta                  A sharp stone with which they cut their hair
Pas-aa-te-ra             A stone
E-ko-ha-tue              A rock
E-ho-ne                  Sand-beach
E-a-wha                  A harbour
E-pa-pa                  A board
E-to-ki                  An axe
E-whow                   A chissel, nail, or iron
E-va-te-to-ka            A door
E-pu-ki                  A hill
E-poo-poo                Shells
E-wak-e-te-ca            Ear-rings
Etu-pu                   The flax plant when growing
E-mu-ka                  The flax when dressed
E-mu-ka Yera-ka-kee      The operation of drawing the flax
                         from the plant
Eka-ka-how               Cloth wove from the flax
A-mo-ko                  The marks on their face and different parts
                         of their bodies
To-ko-hal-ya?            How many?
E-ma-ha                  A great many, speaking of things
Ka-ta-puk-e-mai          A great many, speaking of people
Yen-ge-enge,
(and sounded hard)       Tired
Eto-ho-ro-ha             A whale
E-he-nue                 Whale oil, or any other fat
Emata-to-too-roo         Thick
E-da-ede-hi              Thin
E-do-aw                  High or tall, and long
E-po-to                  Short
E-wa-nue                 Wide
E-wa-ete                 Narrow
E-ti-ma-ha               Heavy
E-ma-ma                  Light
E-de-ding-e              Full
E-ma-din-ge              Empty
E-ma-row                 Hard
Ing-now-a-rey            Soft
E-ka-ra-de               A dog
E-kere                   A rat
E-manu                   A bird
E-wy-you                 Milk
E-whairo                 Red
E-ema                    White
E-man-goe                All dark colours
Ka-de-da                 Green
Ka-nap-pa                Blue
Ta-ah-ne-a sounded long  A man
Wha-hel-ne               A woman
E-co-ro-wa-ke            An old man
E-du-a-hel-ne            An old woman
E-Ta-ma-ree-kee          A young man
E-Ta-ma-hei-ne           A young woman
Ta-ma-i-ete              A male child
E-co-tero                An infant
Ma-tu-a-Ta-a-ne          Father
Ma-tu-a-wa-hei-ne        Mother
Tu-a-hel-ne              Sister
Tu-a-Can-na              Elder brother
Tei-ne                   Younger brother
E-mi-yan-ga              Twins
Pah-pah                  Children call their father
Hah-ty-yee               Children call their mother

E-co-show                To hiccup  
E-mo-a                   To sleep  
E-ta-ko-te               To lie down to sleep  
E-a-ra                   To wake up  
E-kow-hae-ra             To yawn  
E-to-u                   To fart  
E-ku-pa                  To burp  
E-du-a-ke                To vomit  
E-da-hee                 Fat  
Eet pronounced  
as Eat                   Lean  
E-o-ra                   Healthy  
E-mat-tee means  
also death               Sick  
E-pi                     Handsome, also clean  
E-ke-no                  Ugly, also dirty  
E-ni-a-ymi               General pain  
In-ni-shou E-to-on-ga    Toothache  
E-hu-de                  Headache  
E-de-ka-ra-ka            Itchy  
E-huf-fe                 Love  
He-de-de                 Hatred, or dissatisfaction  
He-ma-ta-kd              Fear  
E-ka-tou                 Joy  
E-ko-ko-pe               Shame  
E-kow-wa                 Disgust  
E-wa-ra-wa-ra            An error or mistake  
E-ko-cut                 A cut  
E-mo-to                  A hit  
E-hou-dang-e             To faint  
He-kye                   To eat  
E-e-nue                  To drink  
E-matta-he-a-kye         Hungry  
Ka-ke                    Satisfied  
E-i-ra                   To walk  
E-o-mu                   To run  
E-da-re                  To jump  
E-ka-ou                  To swim  
E-tu-ta-ke               To meet someone  
Ke-o-ro-mi               To hurry  
E-no-ho                  To sit down  
E-tu                     Standing up  
E-mo-ki                  To work  
Ka-ko-p-1                To shut a door  
Eu-wa-ke                 To open  
E-de-ding-ee             To sell  
E-o-mi                   To give or hand over  
Wha-ka-de-de             I'll give you  
Z'Shocke-e-mai           Same here  
E-wa-k-a-tu              To plant  
E-o-hoo-tee              To pull up  
E-da-fe                  To tie or bind  
E-wa-wat-te              To untie  
E-ma-ca                  To throw away  
E-te-te-do               To look or observe  
E-ko-re                  To break something, like a plate  
E-what-te                To break something, like a stick  
E-hi-yi                  To tear, like paper  
Car-co-ree               To pull down or destroy,  
                         like a building, ship, etc  
E-ko-cout                To cut  
Ing-ha-roo               To see or look for  
E-hu-na                  To hide  
Ea-ke-tere               To find  
E-ke-no                  To stain or dirty something  
E-moo-roo                To clean  
Eo-roo-ee                To wash  
E-yhang-a                To build a house or boat  
E-ka-wa                  Tastes bad, bitter  
He-i-de-mal!             Come here!  
Sey-ede or E-i-ra        To go  
E-ko-re-roo              To chat  
Pat-too pat-too          To beat, also the name of a main weapon  
E-te-ka                  To lie  
E-po-no                  To tell the truth  
E-wa-ka                  A canoe  
E-shoo                   To paddle a canoe  
E-1-ka                   A fish  
E-a-ho                   To catch a fish  
E-wa-du                  A wooden fish hook  
E-ma-ka                  A fishing line  
E-nue                    Big, large  
E-mo-ro-ee-te            Small  
My-ty                    Good  
Mack-row-a               Bad  
Ki-e-dow                 Safe to eat  
E-whan-na                To kick  
E-ha-ka                  To dance  
E-wy-ette                To sing  
E-wa-du                  To dream  
E-ta-po-ke               To drown  
E-ka-ya                  To steal  
E-ta-ro-na               To hang oneself  
E-ee-ta                  I understand  
Na?                      Do you mean this?  
Ha ya-ha                 What is this?  
Ko-ai                    Who is this?  
An-ga                    There  
Pah-hee                  A ship, or very big canoe  
E-whar-re                A house  
E-ta-o                   A spear  
E-da-kow                 A tree, or piece of wood  
E-ma-ta                  A sharp stone with which they cut hair  
Pas-aa-te-ra             A stone  
E-ko-ha-tue              A rock  
E-ho-ne                  Sand beach  
E-a-wha                  A harbor  
E-pa-pa                  A board  
E-to-ki                  An axe  
E-whow                   A chisel, nail, or iron  
E-va-te-to-ka            A door  
E-pu-ki                  A hill  
E-poo-poo                Shells  
E-wak-e-te-ca            Earrings  
Etu-pu                   The flax plant when growing  
E-mu-ka                  The flax when processed  
E-mu-ka Yera-ka-kee      The process of extracting flax  
                         from the plant  
Eka-ka-how               Cloth made from flax  
A-mo-ko                  The markings on their face and various body parts  
To-ko-hal-ya?            How many?  
E-ma-ha                  A lot, referring to things  
Ka-ta-puk-e-mai          A lot, referring to people  
Yen-ge-enge,  
(and pronounced hard)    Tired  
Eto-ho-ro-ha             A whale  
E-he-nue                 Whale oil or any animal fat  
Emata-to-too-roo         Thick  
E-da-ede-hi              Thin  
E-do-aw                  High or tall, and long  
E-po-to                  Short  
E-wa-nue                 Wide  
E-wa-ete                 Narrow  
E-ti-ma-ha               Heavy  
E-ma-ma                  Light  
E-de-ding-e              Full  
E-ma-din-ge              Empty  
E-ma-row                 Hard  
Ing-now-a-rey            Soft  
E-ka-ra-de               A dog  
E-kere                   A rat  
E-manu                   A bird  
E-wy-you                 Milk  
E-whairo                 Red  
E-ema                    White  
E-man-goe                All dark colors  
Ka-de-da                 Green  
Ka-nap-pa                Blue  
Ta-ah-ne-a pronounced long  A man  
Wha-hel-ne               A woman  
E-co-ro-wa-ke            An old man  
E-du-a-hel-ne            An old woman  
E-Ta-ma-ree-kee          A young man  
E-Ta-ma-hei-ne           A young woman  
Ta-ma-i-ete              A male child  
E-co-tero                An infant  
Ma-tu-a-Ta-a-ne          Father  
Ma-tu-a-wa-hei-ne        Mother  
Tu-a-hel-ne              Sister  
Tu-a-Can-na              Older brother  
Tei-ne                   Younger brother  
E-mi-yan-ga              Twins  
Pah-pah                  Children call their father  
Hah-ty-yee               Children call their mother

E seems to be used as the article, pronounced as in the English. A is always sounded long, as in the French.

E seems to be used as the article, pronounced like in English. A is always pronounced long, as in French.

NUMERALS
Ta-hie                   One
Du-o                     Two
Too-roo                  Three
Wha                      Four
Dee-mah                  Five
0-no                     Six
Whee-too                 Seven
Wha-roo                  Eight
E-wha                    Nine
Ng-a-hu-du               Ten
Ca-te-cow signifies      One Ten
Ma-ta-hie                Eleven
Ma-duo                   Twelve, and so on, the numeral being
preceded by Ma, until nineteen (Ma-Ew-ha) then . . .
Ca-te-cow, Ca, du-o      Twenty
Ca-te-cow, Ca, Too-roo   Thirty
Ca-te-cow, Ca, Wha       Forty
and so on to . . .
Ca-te-cow, Ca, E-wha     Ninety
Kah-row                  A hundred
Carow, Ca, Ta-hie        One hundred
Carow, Ca, Du-o          Two hundred
and so on to nine hundred
Kom-ma-roo               A thousand
Com-ma-no, Ca, Tahie     One thousand
Com-ma-no, Ca-du-o       Two thousand
and so on to nine thousand.
Ca-tee-nee               Ten thousand
which appearsto be the extent of their numerals.

NUMERALS  
Ta-hie                   One  
Du-o                     Two  
Too-roo                  Three  
Wha                      Four  
Dee-mah                  Five  
0-no                     Six  
Whee-too                 Seven  
Wha-roo                  Eight  
E-wha                    Nine  
Ng-a-hu-du               Ten  
Ca-te-cow signifies      One Ten  
Ma-ta-hie                Eleven  
Ma-duo                   Twelve, and so on, the numeral being  
preceded by Ma, until nineteen (Ma-Ew-ha) then . . .  
Ca-te-cow, Ca, du-o      Twenty  
Ca-te-cow, Ca, Too-roo   Thirty  
Ca-te-cow, Ca, Wha       Forty  
and so on to . . .  
Ca-te-cow, Ca, E-wha     Ninety  
Kah-row                  A hundred  
Carow, Ca, Ta-hie        One hundred  
Carow, Ca, Du-o          Two hundred  
and so on to nine hundred  
Kom-ma-roo               A thousand  
Com-ma-no, Ca, Tahie     One thousand  
Com-ma-no, Ca-du-o       Two thousand  
and so on to nine thousand.  
Ca-tee-nee               Ten thousand  
which appears to be the extent of their numerals.

{Thus far Lieutenant-Governor King.}

{So far Lieutenant-Governor King.}

From the 25th of October, the day on which the ships made sail from Norfolk Island, till the 31st of the same month, nothing material occurred. On that day Mr. Raven stated to Captain Waterhouse, the commander of the Reliance, the necessity there was for the Britannia's making the best of her way to England; and as he thought she sailed rather better than that ship, he requested permission to part company, which Captain Waterhouse not objecting to, we separated and made sail from them.

From October 25th, the day the ships set sail from Norfolk Island, until the 31st of the same month, nothing significant happened. On that day, Mr. Raven told Captain Waterhouse, the commander of the Reliance, that it was important for the Britannia to head to England as quickly as possible; and since he believed she sailed a bit better than that ship, he asked for permission to separate. Captain Waterhouse agreed, so we parted ways and set sail.

On the 5th of November we passed an island named by Lieutenant Watts (who first saw it in the Lady Penrhyn transport) Macauley Island.

On November 5th, we passed an island that Lieutenant Watts named (who first saw it in the Lady Penrhyn transport) Macauley Island.

Sunday the 6th was passed in examining an island, which Mr. Raven was decidedly of opinion had never been seen before. It was situated in the latitude of 29 degrees 15 minutes and longitude of 181 degrees 56 minutes E. We found the land high, and it appeared to be well covered with wood. On the south-west side of it is a bay in which, from the colour of the water, Mr. Raven thought there was good anchorage; but at this time there was too much surf breaking on the beach to render it prudent to send a boat in. The aspect on this side of the island was romantic and inviting; but on the other side the shore was bold, and in many parts rugged and bare. The whole appeared to consist, like Norfolk Island, of hills and dales. We conjectured that there was fresh water in the bay on the south-west side. The knowledge of the existence of this island can be of no other importance, than to cause navigators sailing in that route to keep a good look-out, particularly in the night-time, as many straggling rocks lie off the north side.

On Sunday the 6th, we spent the day exploring an island that Mr. Raven was sure had never been seen before. It was located at a latitude of 29 degrees 15 minutes and a longitude of 181 degrees 56 minutes E. The land was high and appeared to be well-covered with trees. On the southwest side, there was a bay where Mr. Raven believed the water color indicated good anchorage; however, the surf breaking on the beach was too strong to safely send a boat in at that time. The view from this side of the island was picturesque and inviting, while the other side had a steep shore that was rugged and bare in many places. Overall, it seemed similar to Norfolk Island, featuring hills and valleys. We suspected there was fresh water in the bay on the southwest side. The knowledge of this island is important mainly for navigators traveling that route to be vigilant, especially at night, as there are many scattered rocks off the northern side.

From the circumstance of its being seen on a Sunday it obtained the name of Sunday island.

Because it was spotted on a Sunday, it got the name Sunday Island.

Leaving this, we proceeded toward Cape Horn; but it was not till the 16th of December that we saw the southern part of the vast continent of America. Mr. Raven intended to have made the Jasons, and touched at Falkland's Islands in the hope of procuring some information respecting the Cape of Good Hope; but, after passing Cape Horn, and finding the wind hang to the northward, he altered his course for the Island of St Helena, or the Cape of Good Hope, as circumstances might direct.

Leaving this behind, we headed toward Cape Horn; however, it wasn’t until December 16 that we caught sight of the southern part of the huge continent of America. Mr. Raven planned to stop at the Jasons and touch at the Falkland Islands in hopes of gathering some information about the Cape of Good Hope; but after passing Cape Horn and finding the wind blowing from the north, he changed his course toward St. Helena or the Cape of Good Hope, depending on the circumstances.

On the 21st, in latitude 51 degrees 56 minutes S and longitude 306 degrees 25 minutes E to our great surprise, we fell in with and joined our companions the Reliance and Supply. We found that, by keeping nearer to the north end of New Zealand than we had done, they had met with more favourable winds. We now proceeded together toward the Cape of Good Hope.

On the 21st, at a latitude of 51 degrees 56 minutes S and longitude 306 degrees 25 minutes E, we were pleasantly surprised to meet up with our companions, the Reliance and Supply. We learned that by staying closer to the northern part of New Zealand than we had, they had experienced better winds. We then continued together towards the Cape of Good Hope.

On the 23rd, being about the latitude of 50 degrees S we fell in with several islands of ice; which, however, we cleared without any accident, and stood more to the northward. Mr. Raven was of opinion, that ice would always be found in or about those latitudes, and recommended that all ships, after passing Cape Horn, should keep more to the northward than we did.

On the 23rd, at around 50 degrees south latitude, we encountered a few icebergs; however, we navigated around them without any issues and headed further north. Mr. Raven believed that ice would always be present in those latitudes and suggested that all ships, after passing Cape Horn, should stay further north than we did.

On the 9th ofJanuary we crossed the three hundred and sixtieth degree of east longitude. Our weather now was much too moderate; for it was not till the 15th of January that we saw the coast of Africa. Some necessary precautions were taken by the king's ship on coming in with it; and, finding every thing as we wished, on the next day we completed our long voyage of sixteen weeks from Port Jackson by anchoring safely in Table Bay.

On January 9th, we crossed the 360th degree of east longitude. The weather was quite mild, and we didn't spot the coast of Africa until January 15th. The king's ship took some necessary precautions upon arriving there, and finding everything as we hoped, the next day we wrapped up our long journey of sixteen weeks from Port Jackson by safely anchoring in Table Bay.

Here, almost the whole of our ship's company having been pressed, or voluntarily entered into the king's service, and with difficulty getting some necessary repairs done to the ship, we were compelled most reluctantly to remain for eight weeks. The place was very unhealthy, and lodging and every article of comfort extravagantly high.

Here, nearly all of our crew had been forced or willingly joined the king's service, and after struggling to get some essential repairs done on the ship, we were reluctantly stuck there for eight weeks. The place was really unhealthy, and the cost of lodging and everything else we needed was absurdly high.

A few days before we sailed, the ship Ganges, commanded by Mr. Patrickson, arrived with convicts from Cork. She sailed from Ireland with another ship, the Britannia, having on board a similar cargo; but the master, intending to touch at Rio de Janeiro, had parted company with the Ganges off Palma. We learned by the Ganges, that two storeships, the Sylph and Prince of Wales, had sailed in June last for New South Wales. Much as Governor Hunter wanted labourers, the provisions would be more welcome to him than the Irish convicts, who had hitherto always created more trouble than any other.

A few days before we set sail, the ship Ganges, led by Mr. Patrickson, arrived with convicts from Cork. It had left Ireland alongside another ship, the Britannia, which was also carrying a similar load; however, the captain of the Britannia planned to stop in Rio de Janeiro and had separated from the Ganges near Palma. We learned from the Ganges that two supply ships, the Sylph and Prince of Wales, had departed in June for New South Wales. Although Governor Hunter needed workers, he would have preferred provisions over the Irish convicts, who had consistently caused more trouble than anyone else.

Before we sailed we had the satisfaction of seeing seventy head of very fine young Cape cattle purchased by Mr. Palmer, the commissary for the colony, to be sent thither in the Reliance and Supply; the latter of which ships sailed with her proportion a few days before we left Table Bay. These ships would return well stored with useful articles for the settlement, and comforts for every officer in it.

Before we set sail, we were pleased to see seventy young Cape cattle bought by Mr. Palmer, the colony's commissary, to be sent there on the Reliance and Supply; the latter of which left with its share a few days before we departed from Table Bay. These ships would come back filled with useful items for the settlement and supplies for every officer there.

We left the Cape on the 16th of March, and arrived at the pleasant island of St Helena on the 26th of the same month. Here we remained till the 17th of April, having waited some time for a convoy, and sailed at last without any, in company with the ship Brothers, a South-Sea whaler, who was returning loaded.

We left the Cape on March 16th and arrived at the lovely island of St. Helena on the 26th of the same month. We stayed there until April 17th, having waited for a convoy for some time, and finally set sail without one, accompanied by the ship Brothers, a South-Sea whaler that was returning fully loaded.

During our stay at St Helena we made several excursions into the interior part of the island. A visit from the French was daily expected; but we saw with pleasure preparations made for their reception that caused every one to treat the probability of their coming as an event more to be wished for than dreaded. From the hospitality of Governor Brooke and his family, and the pleasant society of this place, we felt a regret at leaving the island, which nothing but the prospect of soon reaching our own happy shores alleviated.

While we were at St. Helena, we took several trips into the island's interior. We were eagerly anticipating a visit from the French, but it was nice to see preparations being made for their arrival, leading everyone to view the possibility of their visit as something to hope for rather than fear. Thanks to the hospitality of Governor Brooke and his family, along with the enjoyable company around us, we felt a sadness about leaving the island that was only eased by the thought of soon returning to our own happy shores.

Every one now was anxious for the successful termination of the passage before us. On the 27th of April we crossed the equator in the longitude of 19 degrees 02 minutes W. On the 4th of May we spoke the ship Elizabeth, (an American,) Isaac Stone master. They had only been twenty-eight days from Dover, and gave us the first intelligence we received of the victory obtained by our fleet under Earl St. Vincent over that of the Spaniards.

Everyone was now eager for the successful completion of the journey ahead of us. On April 27th, we crossed the equator at a longitude of 19 degrees 02 minutes W. On May 4th, we met the ship Elizabeth, an American vessel, captained by Isaac Stone. They had only been twenty-eight days out of Dover and provided us with the first news we received about the victory our fleet achieved under Earl St. Vincent over the Spanish fleet.

On the 7th of June we spoke a schooner under American colours, the Federal George of Duxbury from Bourdeaux, bound to Boston. The master informed, us that the channel was full of the enemy's cruisers, who were looking out for our West-India fleet, then expected home. Though we felt persuaded that our cruisers would counteract their designs, Mr. Raven determined, from this information, and from the wind having long hung to the eastward, to stand to the northward. From this time to the 18th our weather was very unfavourable, and our wind mostly contrary. On the 18th we saw the rock laid down in the charts by the name of Isle Rokal, being then in the latitude of 57 degrees 51 minutes N and longitude 13 degrees 56 minutes W. The rock then bore N 23 degrees distant eight miles and a half. Our foul wind continued many days; but on the 23rd we found ourselves off Innishone on the north part of Ireland. Here a man came off, who, to our inquiries respecting the progress of the war, answered, that he knew nothing about war, except that the strongest party always got the better of the weakest, thus uttering a truth in the midst of the profoundest ignorance. We now determined to steer for Liverpool, at which port, after much anxiety, we arrived in safety on the 27th.

On June 7th, we spotted a schooner flying American colors, the Federal George from Duxbury, which had come from Bordeaux and was headed for Boston. The captain informed us that the channel was crowded with enemy cruisers looking for our West India fleet, which was expected to return home. Although we were confident that our cruisers would thwart their plans, Mr. Raven decided, based on this news and the wind having been stuck in the east for a while, to head north. From that point until the 18th, the weather was quite unfavorable, and the wind was mostly against us. On the 18th, we spotted the rock noted on the charts as Isle Rokal, located at 57 degrees 51 minutes N latitude and 13 degrees 56 minutes W longitude. The rock was then at N 23 degrees, about eight and a half miles away. Our unfavorable wind persisted for several days; however, on the 23rd, we found ourselves near Innishone in the northern part of Ireland. A man came out to us, and when we asked about the progress of the war, he replied that he didn’t know much about it, except that the strongest always defeated the weakest, thus stating a truth while being profoundly ignorant. We decided to head for Liverpool, and after much anxiety, we safely arrived at that port on the 27th.

On the 29th the judge-advocate delivered at the Duke of Portland's office the dispatches with which he was charged.

On the 29th, the judge advocate delivered the dispatches he was responsible for at the Duke of Portland's office.

He now learned, that previous to his arrival in London there had sailed for New South Wales, exclusive of the ships Sylph and Prince of Wales, Ganges and Britannia, the Lady Shore transport, having on board two male and sixty-six female convicts. On the 6th of last November the Barwell sailed, having on board Mr. Dore, the present judge-advocate of that territory, and two hundred and ninety-eight male convicts. The Britannia, a ship belonging to the house of Enderby and Co. sailed on the 17th of last February with ninety-six female convicts on board. This ship went out with orders to try the whale-fishery on the coast of New South Wales for one season. If this should succeed, the settlement and the public at large will owe much to the spirited exertions of the house of Enderby to promote a beneficial commerce from that country.

He learned that before he arrived in London, several ships had already sailed for New South Wales, not including the ships Sylph and Prince of Wales, as well as Ganges and Britannia. The Lady Shore transport carried two male and sixty-six female convicts. On November 6th last year, the Barwell set sail with Mr. Dore, the current judge-advocate of that territory, and two hundred ninety-eight male convicts on board. The Britannia, a ship belonging to the house of Enderby and Co., departed on February 17th this year with ninety-six female convicts. This ship was sent out with orders to explore whale-fishing along the coast of New South Wales for one season. If successful, the settlement and the public will greatly benefit from the bold efforts of the house of Enderby to encourage profitable trade from that region.

The king's ships on that station being ill calculated for the services expected from them, having on board expensive complements of men and officers, and consequently but little room for cattle; and being beside so defective and impaired by time as to be unsafe to navigate much longer; two others have been provided, newer and more capable of rendering service to the colony. One of them, the Buffalo, commanded by Mr. William Raven, late master of the Britannia, is on the point of sailing, and is to take cattle to New South Wales from the Cape of Good Hope. The other is named the Porpoise, and has the same service to perform. A ship, called the Minerva, is also proceeding to Cork to take in a number of Irish convicts.

The king's ships in that area weren’t well-suited for the tasks they were expected to perform. They had a lot of expensive crew members and officers on board, which left little space for livestock. Additionally, the ships were old and damaged, making them unsafe to operate for much longer. Two new ships have been provided, which are more capable of serving the colony. One of them, the Buffalo, is commanded by Mr. William Raven, who was previously the captain of the Britannia. It is about to set sail to bring cattle from the Cape of Good Hope to New South Wales. The other ship is called the Porpoise, and it will be doing the same job. There’s also a ship named the Minerva headed to Cork to pick up a number of Irish convicts.

Letters have been received from New South Wales, dated about six weeks after the author sailed from that colony. Governor Hunter had received by the Sylph and Prince of Wales storeships two thousand six hundred and fifty casks of salted provisions. Several persons had been tried by the court of criminal judicature for robbing the public stores, and had been found guilty. One man had been executed for murder, and his body hung in chains on Rock Island, a small spot at the mouth of Sydney Cove, and by which every boat and ship coming into the cove must necessarily pass. The governor was on the point of visiting Portland Head, some high land on the banks of the Hawkesbury, where he purposed establishing a settlement.

Letters have arrived from New South Wales, dated about six weeks after the author left that colony. Governor Hunter received two thousand six hundred and fifty casks of salted provisions via the Sylph and Prince of Wales supply ships. Several people were tried by the criminal court for stealing from the public stores and were found guilty. One man was executed for murder, and his body was hung in chains on Rock Island, a small area at the mouth of Sydney Cove, which every boat and ship entering the cove must pass. The governor was about to visit Portland Head, a high area along the banks of the Hawkesbury, where he planned to establish a settlement.

Had that river and its fertile banks been discovered before the establishment at Sydney Cove had proceeded too far to remove it, how eligible a place would it have been for the principal settlement! A navigable river possesses many advantages that are unknown in other situations. Much benefit, however, was to be derived from this even as an inferior settlement. Its extreme fertility would always insure a certain supply of grain; and the settlers on its banks must produce a quantity equal to the consumption of the civil and Military, and of their own families; and thus, while rendering a service to the state, they might in time become opulent farmers. Yet our pity is excited, when it is considered, that they are of so unworthy a description as has clearly been made appear in the preceding narrative. That a river justly termed the Nile of New South Wales should fall into such hands is to be lamented. In process of time, however, their productive farms will have yielded them all that they aspire to, and may then fall into the possession of persons who will look beyond the mere gratification of the moment, and cause the settlements in New South Wales to stand as high in the public estimation as any colonies in his Majesty's dominions.

Had that river and its fertile banks been discovered before the settlement at Sydney Cove got too far along to change it, what an ideal location it would have been for the main settlement! A navigable river offers many benefits not found in other locations. Still, there was much to gain from this place, even as a lesser settlement. Its rich soil would always guarantee a consistent supply of grain; settlers along its banks would need to produce enough to meet the demands of the civilians, the military, and their own families. In doing so, while providing a service to the state, they could eventually become prosperous farmers. Yet, it’s hard not to feel pity when considering that they are of such an unworthy character, as clearly shown in the earlier narrative. It’s truly unfortunate that a river justly called the Nile of New South Wales should end up in such hands. In time, however, their productive farms will yield everything they desire and may eventually come into the hands of people who will look beyond immediate satisfaction, helping the settlements in New South Wales achieve the same high regard as any colonies in His Majesty's territories.

Saunderson's Farm.

APPENDICES

GENERAL REMARKS

The reader of the preceding narrative will have seen, that after many untoward occurrences, and a considerable lapse of time, that friendly intercourse with the natives which had been so earnestly desired was at length established; and having never been materially interrupted, these remote islanders have been shown living in considerable numbers among us without fear or restraint; acquiring our language; readily falling in with our manners and customs; enjoying the comforts of our clothing, and relishing the variety of our food. We saw them die in our houses, and the places of the deceased instantly filled by others, who observed nothing in the fate of their predecessors to deter them from living with us, and placing that entire confidence in us which it was our interest and our pleasure to cultivate. They have been always allowed so far to be their own masters, that we never, or but rarely, interrupted them in any of their designs, judging that by suffering them to live with us as they were accustomed to do before we came among them, we should sooner attain a knowledge of their manners and customs, than by waiting till we had acquired a competent skill in their language to converse with them. On this principle, when they assembled to dance or to fight before our houses, we never dispersed, but freely attended their meetings. To them this attention of ours appeared to be agreeable and useful; for those who happened to be wounded in their contests instantly looked out for one of our surgeons, and displayed entire confidence in his skill, and great bravery in the firmness with which they bore the knife and the probe.

The reader of the earlier story will have noticed that after many unfortunate events and a significant amount of time, the friendly relationship with the natives that was so eagerly sought after was finally established; and having never been seriously interrupted, these remote islanders have been seen living among us in large numbers without fear or restraint; picking up our language; easily adapting to our customs and ways of life; enjoying the comfort of our clothing, and appreciating the variety of our food. We watched them die in our homes, and the spots where the deceased had been were quickly filled by others, who saw nothing in the fate of their predecessors to stop them from living with us and putting their complete trust in us, which was in our best interest and something we were happy to encourage. They were always allowed to be mostly in charge of their own affairs, as we rarely intervened in their plans, believing that by letting them live with us as they were used to doing before we arrived, we would learn more about their customs and ways than if we waited until we became skilled enough in their language to talk to them. Based on this idea, when they gathered to dance or fight in front of our homes, we never broke up their gatherings but freely joined in their activities. They found our attention to be pleasant and beneficial; because those who got injured during their fights quickly sought one of our surgeons and showed complete trust in his skills, bearing the pain of the knife and the probe with remarkable bravery.

By slow degrees we began mutually to be pleased with, and to understand each other. Language, indeed, is out of the question; for at the time of writing this (September 1796) nothing but a barbarous mixture of English with the Port Jackson dialect is spoken by either party; and it must be added, that even in this the natives have the advantage, comprehending, with much greater aptness than we can pretend to, every thing they hear us say. From a pretty close observation, however, assisted by the use of the barbarous dialect just mentioned, the following particulars respecting the natives of New South Wales have been collected.

By slow degrees, we started to enjoy each other’s company and understand one another. Language, of course, is not really an option; at the time of writing this (September 1796), only a rough mix of English and the Port Jackson dialect is spoken by either group. It should be noted that the natives have the upper hand, as they grasp everything we say with much more skill than we do. However, through close observation and the use of this rough dialect, I’ve gathered the following details about the natives of New South Wales.

APPENDIX 1--GOVERNMENT AND RELIGION

GOVERNMENT

GOVT

We found the natives about Botany Bay, Port Jackson, and Broken Bay, living in that state of nature which must have been common to all men previous to their uniting in society, and acknowledging but one authority. These people are distributed into families, the head or senior of which exacts compliance from the rest. In our early intercourse with them (and indeed at a much later period, on our meeting with families to whom we were unknown) we were always accosted by the person who appeared to be the eldest of the party, while the women, youths, and children, were kept at a distance. The word which in their language signifies father was applied to their old men; and when, after some time, and by close observation, they perceived the authority with which Governor Phillip commanded, and the obedience which he exacted, they bestowed on him the distinguishing appellation of (Be-anna) or Father. This title being conferred solely on him (although they perceived the authority of masters over their servants) places the true sense of the word beyond a doubt, and proves, that to those among them who enjoyed that distinction belonged the authority of a chief.

We found the Indigenous people around Botany Bay, Port Jackson, and Broken Bay, living in a natural state that must have been common to everyone before they formed societies and recognized a single authority. These people are organized into families, with the head or elder demanding respect from the others. In our initial interactions with them (and even much later, when we met families we didn't know), we were always approached by what seemed to be the oldest member of the group, while the women, young people, and children stayed back. The word in their language for father was used to refer to their older men; and after a while, and through careful observation, they recognized the authority that Governor Phillip had and the respect he commanded, so they gave him the special title of (Be-anna) or Father. This title was only given to him (even though they saw masters having authority over their servants) clearly shows that to those who held that title, they had the authority of a leader.

When any of these came into the town, we have been immediately informed of their arrival, and they have been pointed out to our notice in a whisper, and with an eagerness of manner which, while it drew our attention, impressed us with an idea that we were looking at persons to whom some consequence was attached even among the savages of New Holland. Another acceptation of the word Be-anna, however, soon became evident; for we observed it to be frequently applied by children to men who we knew had not any children of their own. On inquiry we were informed, that in case a father should die, the nearest of kin, or some deputed friend, would take the care of his children; and for this reason those children styled them Be-anna, though in the lifetime of their natural parent. This Bennillong (the native who was some time in England) confirmed to us at the death of his first wife, by consigning the care of his infant daughter Dil-boong (who at the time of her mother's decease was at the breast) to his friend Governor Phillip, telling him that he was to become the Be-anna or Father of his little girl. Here, if the reader pauses for a moment to consider the difference between the general conduct of our baptismal sponsors (to whose duties this custom bears much resemblance) and the humane practice of these uncivilised people, will not the comparison suffuse his cheek with something like shame, at seeing the enlightened Christian so distanced in the race of humanity by the untutored savage, who has hitherto been the object of his pity and contempt? But sorry am I to recollect, and as a faithful narrator to be impelled to relate, one particular in their customs that is wholly irreconcilable with the humane duties which they have prescribed to themselves in the above instance; duties which relate only to those children who, in the event of losing the mother, could live without her immediate aid. A far different lot is reservea ror such as are at triat time at the breast, or in a state ot absolute helplessness, as will be seen hereafter.

When any of these individuals came into town, we were quickly informed of their arrival, and they were pointed out to us in whispers, with an eagerness that caught our attention and made us feel that we were looking at people of some importance, even among the natives of New Holland. However, another meaning of the word Be-anna soon became clear; we noticed that children often used it to refer to men who, we knew, had no children of their own. Upon asking, we learned that if a father died, the nearest relative or a designated friend would take care of his children; for this reason, those children referred to them as Be-anna, even while their biological parent was still alive. Bennillong (the native who spent some time in England) confirmed this when he lost his first wife, entrusting the care of his infant daughter Dil-boong (who was still breastfeeding at the time of her mother’s death) to his friend Governor Phillip, saying he was to become the Be-anna or Father of his little girl. Here, if the reader takes a moment to reflect on the difference between the general conduct of our baptismal sponsors (whose duties are quite similar to this custom) and the compassionate practices of these uncivilized people, won’t the comparison bring a sense of shame, seeing the enlightened Christian so far behind in humanity compared to the untutored savage, who has so far been the object of his sympathy and disdain? Yet, I regret to recall and, as a faithful narrator, feel compelled to share one particular in their customs that is entirely incompatible with the compassionate responsibilities they have assigned to themselves in this case; responsibilities that only apply to those children who, upon losing their mother, can survive without her immediate care. A much different fate awaits those who are still breastfeeding or in a state of complete helplessness, as will be revealed later.

We have mentioned their being divided into families. Each family has a particular place of residence, from which is derived its distinguishing name. This is formed by adding the monosyllable Gal to the name of the place: thus the southern shore of Botany Bay is called Gwea, and the people who inhabit it style themselves Gweagal. Those who live on the north shore of Port Jackson are called Cam-mer-ray-gal, that part of the harbour being distinguished from others by the name of Cam-mer-ray. Of this last family or tribe we have heard Bennillong and other natives speak (before we knew them ourselves) as of a very powerful people, who could oblige them to attend wherever and whenever they directed. We afterwards found them to be by far the most numerous tribe of any within our knowledge. It so happened, that they were also the most robust and muscular, and that among them were several of the people styled Car-rah-dy and Car-rah-di-gang, of which extraordinary personages we shall have to speak particularly, under the article Superstition.

We’ve mentioned that they are divided into families. Each family has a specific place where they live, which gives them their unique name. This name is created by adding the syllable "Gal" to the name of the place: for example, the southern shore of Botany Bay is called Gwea, and the people who live there call themselves Gweagal. Those on the north shore of Port Jackson are known as Cam-mer-ray-gal, with that part of the harbor identified by the name Cam-mer-ray. We had heard Bennillong and other natives refer to this last family or tribe (before we met them ourselves) as a very powerful group who could command them to go wherever and whenever they wanted. We later discovered they were by far the largest tribe we knew. It turned out they were also the strongest and most muscular, and among them were several people referred to as Car-rah-dy and Car-rah-di-gang, extraordinary individuals we will discuss in detail in the section Superstition.

To the tribe of Cam-mer-ray also belonged the exclusive and extraordinary privilege of exacting a tooth from the natives of other tribes inhabiting the sea-coast, or of all such as were within their authority. The exercise of this privilege places these people in a particular point of view; and there is no doubt of their decided superiority over all the tribes with whom we were acquainted. Many contests or decisions of honour (for such there are among them) have been delayed until the arrival of these people; and when they came, it was impossible not to observe the superiority and influence which their numbers and their muscular appearance gave them over the other tribes.

The tribe of Cam-mer-ray also had the unique and special right to demand a tooth from the natives of other tribes living along the coast or from anyone else under their control. Exercising this right puts these people in a distinct position, and there's no doubt that they clearly stand out as superior to all the tribes we knew. Many contests or matters of honor (because they have those among them) were postponed until these people arrived; and when they showed up, it was impossible not to notice the dominance and influence their size and strength gave them over the other tribes.

These are all the traces that could ever be discovered among them of government or subordination; and we may imagine the deference which is paid to the tribe of Cam-mer-ray to be derived wholly from their superiority of numbers; but this superiority they may have maintained for a length of time before we knew them; and indeed the privilege of demanding a tooth from the young men of other families must have been of long standing, and coeval with the obedience which was paid to them: hence their superiority partakes something of the nature of a constituted authority; an authority which has the sanction of custom to plead for its continuance.

These are all the signs of government or authority that could ever be found among them; we might think that the respect given to the Cam-mer-ray tribe comes entirely from their larger numbers. However, they might have held this advantage for a long time before we encountered them; in fact, the privilege of demanding a tooth from the young men of other families must have been established for a considerable time and coincided with the respect shown to them. Therefore, their dominance has some aspects of an established authority—an authority supported by tradition to justify its ongoing existence.

RELIGION

FAITH

It has been asserted by an eminent divine*, that no country has yet been discovered where some trace of religion was not to be found. From every observation and inquiry I could make among these people, from the first to the last of my acquaintance with them, I can safely pronounce them an exception to this opinion. I am certain that they do not worship either sun, moon, or star; that, however necessary fire may be to them, it is not an object of adoration; neither have they respect for any particular beast, bird, or fish. I never could discover any object, either substantial or imaginary, that impelled them to the commissioin of good actions, or deterred them from the perpetration of what we deem crimes. There indeed existed among them some idea of a future state, but not connected in any wise with religion; for it had no influence whatever on their lives and actions. On their being often questioned as to what became of them after their decease, some answered that they went either on or beyond the great water; but by far the greater number signified, that they went to the clouds. Conversing with Bennillong after his return from England, where he had obtained much knowledge of our customs and manners, I wished to learn what were his ideas of the place from which his countrymen came, and led him to the subject by observing, that all the white men here came from England. I then asked him where the black men (or Eora) came from? He hesitated; did they come from any island? His answer was, that he knew of none: they came from the clouds (alluding perhaps to the aborigines of the country); and when they died, they returned to the clouds (Boo-row-e). He wished to make me understand that they ascended in the shape of little children, first hovering in the tops and in the branches of trees; and mentioned something about their eating, in that state, their favourite food, little fishes.

It has been said by a well-known religious figure that no country has ever been found without some form of religion. Based on every observation and interaction I’ve had with these people, from the beginning to the end of my experience with them, I can confidently say they are an exception to this belief. I am sure they do not worship the sun, moon, or stars; while fire may be essential to them, it is not something they venerate; and they do not have any particular reverence for any specific animal, bird, or fish. I have never found anything, whether real or imagined, that motivates them to do good or discourages them from what we consider wrong. They do have some concept of an afterlife, but it is not associated with religion; it has no impact on their daily lives and actions. When asked about what happens to them after they die, some said they go either on or beyond the great water; but most indicated they go to the clouds. While talking with Bennillong after his return from England, where he learned a lot about our customs and ways, I wanted to understand his thoughts about where his people came from, leading him into the topic by noting that all the white men here are from England. I then asked him where the black people (or Eora) came from. He hesitated — did they come from any island? His reply was that he didn’t know of any: they came from the clouds (perhaps referring to the indigenous people of the land); and when they died, they returned to the clouds (Boo-row-e). He wanted me to understand that they rise in the form of little children, first floating in the treetops and branches; and he mentioned something about them eating their favorite food, little fish, in that state.

[* Blair's Sermons, vol i Sermon I]

[* Blair's Sermons, vol I Sermon I]

If this idea of the immortality of the soul should excite a smile, is it more extraordinary than the belief which obtains among some of us, that at the last day the various disjointed bones of men shall find out each its proper owner, and be re-united? The savage here treads close upon the footsteps of the Christian.

If this idea of the soul's immortality makes you smile, is it any stranger than the belief held by some of us that on the final day, all the scattered bones of people will somehow know their original owners and come back together? The savage here closely follows the beliefs of the Christian.

The natives who inhabit the harbour to the northward, called by us Port Stephens, believed that five white men who were cast away among them (as has been before shown) had formerly been their countrymen, and took one of them to the grave where, he told him, the body he at that time occupied had been interred. If this account, given us by men who may well be supposed to deal in the marvellous, can be depended upon, how much more ignorant are the natives of Port Stephens, who live only thirty leagues to the northward of us, than the natives of and about Port Jackson!

The locals living in the harbor to the north, which we call Port Stephens, believed that five white men who ended up among them (as we've mentioned before) were once their fellow countrymen. They even took one of these men to the grave where he claimed the body he was in had been buried. If this story, told by people who are known to exaggerate, can be trusted, how much more unaware are the natives of Port Stephens, who live just thirty leagues north of us, compared to the natives around Port Jackson!

The young people who resided in our houses were very desirous of going to church on Sundays, but knew not for what purpose we attended. I have often seen them take a book, and with much success imitate the clergyman in his manner (for better and readier mimics can no where be found), laughing and enjoying the applause which they received.

The young people living in our homes were really eager to go to church on Sundays, but they didn’t understand why we went. I often saw them grab a book and, with great skill, imitate the clergyman's style (because you can't find better and quicker mimics anywhere), laughing and relishing the praise they got.

I remember to have seen in a newspaper or pamphlet an account of a native throwing himself in the way of a man who was about to shoot a crow; and the person who wrote the account drew an inference, that the bird was an object of worship: but I can with confidence affirm, that so far from dreading to see a crow killed, they are very fond of eating it, and take the following particular method to ensnare that bird: a native will stretch himself on a rock as if asleep in the sun, holding a piece of fish in his open hand; the bird, be it hawk or crow, seeing the prey, and not observing any motion in the native, pounces on the fish, and, in the instant of seizing it, is caught by the native, who soon throws him on the fire and makes a meal of him.

I remember seeing in a newspaper or pamphlet a story about a native who threw himself in front of a man about to shoot a crow. The person who wrote the story suggested that the bird was worshipped. But I can confidently say that far from being scared of seeing a crow killed, they actually enjoy eating it. They have a specific method for catching the bird: a native will lie on a rock as if he's asleep in the sun, holding a piece of fish in his open hand. The bird, whether a hawk or a crow, sees the fish and, noticing no movement from the native, swoops down to grab it. At that moment, the native catches the bird and soon throws it on the fire to make a meal out of it.

That they have ideas of a distinction between good and bad is evident from their having terms in their language significant of these qualities. Thus, the sting-ray was (wee-re) bad; it was a fish of which they never ate. The patta-go-rang or kangaroo was (bood-yer-re) good, and they ate it whenever they were fortunate enough to kill one of these animals.

That they have concepts distinguishing between good and bad is clear from their having words in their language that reflect these qualities. For example, the sting-ray was (wee-re) bad; it was a fish they never ate. The patta-go-rang or kangaroo was (bood-yer-re) good, and they consumed it whenever they were lucky enough to catch one of these animals.

To exalt these people at all above the brute creation, it is necessary to show that they had the gift of reason, and that they knew the distinction between right and wrong, as well as between what food was good and what was bad. Of these latter qualities their senses informed them; but the knowledge of right and wrong could only proceed from reason. It is true, they had no distinction in terms for these qualities--wee-re and bood-yer-re alike implying what was good and bad, and right and wrong. Instances however were not wanting of their using them to describe the sensations of the mind as well as of the senses; thus their enemies were wee-re; their friends bood-yer-re. On our speaking of cannibalism, they expressed great horror at the mention, and said it was wee-re. On seeing any of our people punished or reproved for ill-treating them, they expressed their approbation, and said it was bood-yer-re, it was right. Midnight murders, though frequently practised among them whenever passion or revenge were uppermost, they reprobated; but applauded acts of kindness and generosity, for of both these they were capable. A man who would not stand to have a spear thrown at him, but ran away, was a coward,jee-run, and wee-re. But their knowledge of the difference between right and wrong certainly never extended beyond their existence in this world; not leading them to believe that the practice of either had any relation to their future state; this was manifest from their idea of quitting this world, or rather of entering the next, in the form of little children, under which form they would re-appear in this.

To elevate these individuals above the animal world, it's essential to demonstrate that they possessed the ability to reason and understood the difference between right and wrong, as well as what food was good or bad. They relied on their senses for the latter qualities, but the understanding of right and wrong could only come from reason. It's true they didn’t have distinct terms for these qualities—wee-re and bood-yer-re both meant what was good and bad, right and wrong. However, they used these terms to express feelings of the mind as well as the senses; for instance, their enemies were wee-re, and their friends were bood-yer-re. When we mentioned cannibalism, they reacted with horror and said it was wee-re. When they saw our people punished or scolded for mistreating them, they showed approval, claiming it was bood-yer-re, it was right. While midnight murders were common when driven by passion or revenge, they condemned those acts but praised kindness and generosity, as they were capable of both. A man who wouldn’t stand still to have a spear thrown at him was considered a coward, jee-run, and wee-re. However, their understanding of right and wrong clearly didn’t go beyond their life on Earth, as they didn’t think that practicing either had any impact on their afterlife; this was evident in their belief that leaving this world meant entering the next as little children, in which form they would reappear here.

APPENDIX II-STATURE AND APPEARANCE

We observed but few men or women among them who could be said to be tall, and still fewer who were well made. I once saw a dwarf, a female, who, when she stood upright, measured about four feet two inches. None of her limbs were disproportioned, nor were the features of her face unpleasant; she had a child at her back, and we were told came from the south shore of Botany Bay. I thought the other natives seemed to make her an object of their merriment. In general, indeed almost universally, the limbs of these people were small; of most of them the arms, legs, and thighs were thin. This, no doubt, is owing to the poorness of their living, which is chiefly on fish; otherwise the fineness of the climate, co-operating with the exercise which they take, might have rendered them more muscular. Those who live on the sea-coast depend entirely on fish for their sustenance; while the few who dwell in the woods subsist on such animals as they can catch. The very great labour necessary for taking these animals, and the scantiness of the supply, keep the wood natives in as poor a condition as their brethren on the coast. It has been remarked, that the natives who have been met with in the woods had longer arms and legs than those who lived about us. This might proceed from their being compelled to climb the trees after honey and the small animals which resort to them, such as the flying squirrel and opossum, which they effect by cutting with their stone hatchets notches in the bark of the tree of a sufficient depth and size to receive the ball of the great toe. The first notch being cut, the toe is placed in it; and while the left arm embraces the tree, a second is cut at a convenient distance to receive the other foot. By this method they ascend very quick, always cutting with the right hand and clinging with the left, resting the whole weight of the body on the ball of either foot.

We noticed only a few men and women among them who could be considered tall, and even fewer who were well-built. I once saw a dwarf woman who stood about four feet two inches tall when upright. Her limbs were proportionate, and her facial features were not unattractive; she had a child on her back and we were told she came from the south shore of Botany Bay. I thought the other natives seemed to make fun of her. Generally, almost universally, the limbs of these people were small; most of them had thin arms, legs, and thighs. This is likely due to their poor diet, which mainly consists of fish; otherwise, the good climate combined with their physical activity could have made them more muscular. Those living on the coast rely entirely on fish for their food, while the few who live in the woods survive by catching whatever animals they can. The significant effort required to catch these animals, along with their scarcity, keeps the forest natives in as poor condition as their coastal counterparts. It has been noted that the natives found in the woods had longer arms and legs than those around us. This might be because they have to climb trees to get honey and small animals like flying squirrels and opossums, which they do by cutting notches in the tree bark with their stone hatchets, deep enough to hold their big toe. Once the first notch is made, they place their toe in it; while hugging the tree with their left arm, they cut a second notch at a convenient height to place their other foot. Using this method, they climb quickly, always cutting with their right hand and gripping with their left, resting their whole weight on the ball of either foot.

In an excursion to the westward with a party, we passed a tree (of the kind named by us the white gum, the bark of which is soft) that we judged to be about one hundred and thirty feet in height, and which had been notched by the natives at least eighty feet, before they attained the first branch where it was likely they could meet with any reward for so much toil.

On a trip west with a group, we passed a tree (the one we call the white gum, which has soft bark) that we estimated to be about one hundred thirty feet tall. The natives had notched it at least eighty feet high before reaching the first branch where they might get any reward for all that hard work.

The features of many of these people were far from unpleasing, particularly of the women: in general, the black bushy beards of the men, and the bone or reed which they thrust through the cartilage of the nose, tended to give them a disgusting appearance; but in the women, that feminine delicacy which is to be found among white people was to be traced even upon their sable cheeks; and though entire strangers to the comforts and conveniencies of clothing, yet they sought with a native modesty to conceal by attitude what the want of covering would otherwise have revealed. They have often brought to my recollection, "The bending statue which enchants the world," though it must be owned that the resemblance consisted solely in the position.

The features of many of these people were not unpleasant, especially among the women: generally, the thick black beards of the men and the bone or reed they pierced through their noses gave them a rather unattractive look; but in the women, the feminine delicacy often seen in white people was evident even on their dark skin; and although they were completely unfamiliar with the comforts and conveniences of clothing, they naturally tried to cover what their lack of clothing would have otherwise revealed. They often reminded me of "The bending statue that captivates the world," although it must be said that the resemblance was only in their posture.

Both women and men use the disgusting practice of rubbing fish-oil into their skins; but they are compelled to this as a guard against the effects of the air and of mosquitoes, and flies; some of which are large, and bite or sting with much severity. But the oil, together with the perspiration from their bodies, produces, in hot weather, a most horrible stench. I have seen some with the entrails of fish frying in the burning sun upon their heads, until the oil ran down over their foreheads. A remarkable instance once came under my observation of the early use which they make of this curious unguent. Happening to be at Camp Cove at a time when these people were much pressed with hunger, we found in a miserable hut a poor wretched half-starved native and two children. The man was nearly reduced to a skeleton, but the children were in better condition. We gave them some salted beef and pork, and some bread, but this they would not touch. The eldest of the children was a female; and a piece of fat meat being given to her, she, instead of eating it instantly as we expected, squeezed it between her fingers until she had nearly pressed all the fat to a liquid; with this she oiled over her face two or three times, and then gave it to the other, a boy about two years of age, to do the like. Our wonder was naturally excited at seeing such knowledge in children so young. To their hair, by means of the yellow gum, they fasten the front teeth of the kangaroo, and the jaw-bones of large fish, human teeth, pieces of wood, feathers of birds, the tail of the dog, and certain bones taken out of the head of a fish, not unlike human teeth. The natives who inhabit the south shore of Botany Bay divide the hair into small parcels, each of which they mat together with gum, and form them into lengths like the thrums of a mop. On particular occasions they ornament themselves with red and white clay, using the former when preparing to fight, the latter for the more peaceful amusement of dancing. The fashion of these ornaments was left to each person's taste; and some, when decorated in their best manner, looked perfectly horrible. Nothing could appear more terrible than a black and dismal face, with a large white circle drawn round each eye. In general waved lines were marked down each arm, thigh, and leg; and in some the cheeks were daubed; and lines drawn over each rib, presented to the beholder a truly spectre-like figure. Previous either to a dance or a combat, we always found them busily employed in this necessary preliminary; and it must be observed, that when other liquid could not be readily procured, they moistened the clay with their own saliva. Both sexes are ornamented with scars upon the breast, arms, and back, which are cut with broken pieces of the shell they use at the end of the throwing stick. By keeping open these incisions, the flesh grows up between the sides of the wound, and after a time, skinning over, forms a large wale or seam. I have seen instances where these scars have been cut to resemble the feet of animals; and such boys as underwent the operation while they lived with us, appeared to be proud of the ornament, and to despise the pain which they must have endured. The operation is performed when they are young, and until they advance in years the scars look large and full; but on some of their old men I have been scarcely able to discern them. As a principal ornament, the men, on particular occasions, thrust a bone or reed through the septum nasi, the hole through which is bored when they are young. Some boys who went away from us for a few days, returned dignified with this strange ornament, having, in the mean time, had the operation performed upon them; they appeared to be from twelve to fifteen years of age. The bone that they wear is the small bone in the leg of the kangaroo, one end of which is sharpened to a point. I have seen several women who had their noses perforated in this extraordinary manner.

Both women and men practice the unpleasant habit of rubbing fish oil into their skin, but they do this to protect themselves from the effects of the air and from mosquitoes and flies, some of which are large and bite or sting quite painfully. However, the oil combined with their sweat creates a truly awful smell in hot weather. I've seen some people with fish entrails frying on their heads under the scorching sun, causing the oil to run down their foreheads. A notable example came to my attention when I was at Camp Cove, where these people were suffering from hunger. We found a poor, half-starved native man and two children in a shabby hut. The man looked nearly like a skeleton, but the children were in better shape. We offered them salted beef, pork, and some bread, but they wouldn’t eat any of it. The older child was a girl, and when we gave her a piece of fat meat, instead of eating it right away as we expected, she squeezed it between her fingers until the fat became liquid. She then oiled her face with it two or three times before giving it to the other child, a boy around two years old, to do the same. We were naturally amazed to see such understanding in such young children. They use yellow gum to attach kangaroo front teeth, large fish jawbones, human teeth, pieces of wood, bird feathers, dog tails, and certain bones from fish heads, which look somewhat like human teeth, to their hair. The natives living along the south shore of Botany Bay section their hair into small chunks, matting them together with gum and forming them into lengths like mop strands. On special occasions, they decorate themselves with red and white clay, using red for preparing to fight and white for the more peaceful activity of dancing. The style of these decorations is left up to each person's preference, and some, when dressed their best, looked quite frightening. A black and gloomy face with a large white circle around each eye could look extremely terrifying. Generally, they marked wavy lines down their arms, thighs, and legs; some had their cheeks painted, and lines drawn over their ribs created a truly ghostly appearance. Before any dance or fight, we always saw them busy with these preparations, and it's worth noting that when other liquids weren’t readily available, they used their own saliva to moisten the clay. Both men and women have scars on their chest, arms, and back, which are made with broken pieces of shell that they use with their throwing sticks. By keeping these cuts open, the flesh grows in the space of the wound and eventually heals over, forming a noticeable seam. I've seen instances where these scars were cut to resemble animal footprints, and the boys who went through this operation while living with us seemed proud of their markings, ignoring the pain they endured. This procedure is done when they are young, and as they grow older, the scars can look large and pronounced, but on some older men, I could barely see them. As a main decoration, men sometimes insert a bone or reed through the septum of their nose, a hole that has been bored when they were young. Some boys who left us for a few days returned sporting this unusual decoration, having had the procedure done while they were away; they looked to be between twelve and fifteen years old. The bone they wear is the small bone from a kangaroo's leg, one end sharpened to a point. I've also seen several women with their noses pierced in this remarkable manner.

The women are, besides, early subjected to an uncommon mutilation of the two first joints of the little finger of the left hand. The operation is performed when they are very young, and is done with a hair, or some other slight ligature. This being tied round at the joint, the flesh soon swells, and in a few days, the circulation being destroyed, the finger mortifies and drops off. I never saw but one instance where the finger was taken off from the right hand, and that was occasioned by the mistake of the mother. Before we knew them, we took it to be their marriage ceremony; but on seeing their mutilated children we were convinced of our mistake; and at last learned, that these joints of the little finger were supposed to be in the way when they wound their fishing lines over the hand. On our expressing a disgust of the appearance, they always applauded it, and said it was very good. They name it Mal-gun; and among the many women whom I saw, but very few had this finger perfect. On my pointing these out to those who were so distinguished, they appeared to look at and speak of them with some degree of contempt.

The women also undergo a strange procedure where the first two joints of their left pinky finger are removed. This is done when they are very young, using a hair or some other thin string. The string is tied around the joint, causing the flesh to swell, and within days, the circulation is cut off, leading to the finger dying and eventually falling off. I only saw one case where the finger was removed from the right hand, which happened because the mother made a mistake. Before we understood them, we thought this was part of their marriage ceremony; however, after seeing their mutilated children, we realized we were wrong. We eventually learned that these joints on the pinky were thought to get in the way when they wrapped fishing lines around their hands. When we expressed our disgust at the appearance, they praised it and said it was very good. They call it Mal-gun; among the many women I saw, very few had their pinky intact. When I pointed out those who did have their fingers complete, the others looked at them and spoke about them with a hint of contempt.

The men too were not without their mutilation. Most of those who lived on the sea-coast we found to want the right front tooth; some, whom we met in the interior part of the country, had not been subjected to the authority of the tribe of Cam-mer-ray-gal; but a particular account of the ceremonies used on this occasion will be given under the article Customs and Manners.

The men also had their share of mutilation. Most of the people living along the coast were missing their right front tooth; some, whom we encountered in the interior, had not been subjected to the rule of the Cam-mer-ray-gal tribe. A detailed description of the ceremonies associated with this will be provided in the section Customs and Manners.

I noticed but few deformities of person among them; once or twice I have seen on the sand the print of inverted feet. Round shoulders or humpbacked people I never saw. Some who were lame, and assisted themselves with sticks, have been met with; but their lameness might proceed from spear wounds, or by accident from fire; for never were women so inattentive to their young as these. We often heard of children being injured by fire, while the mother lay fast asleep beside them, these people being extremely difficult to awaken when once asleep. A very fine little girl, belonging to a man well known and much beloved among us, of the name of Cole-be, had two of its toes burnt Off, and the sinews of the leg contracted in one night, by rolling into a fire out of its mother's arms, while they both lay asleep.

I noticed very few physical deformities among them; I once or twice saw footprints of inverted feet in the sand. I never saw anyone with round shoulders or a hunched back. Some people were lame and used sticks to help them get around, but their lameness could have been from spear wounds or accidents from fire; the mothers were never as attentive to their young as they should have been. We often heard stories of children getting hurt by fire while their mothers slept soundly next to them, as these people were really hard to wake once they had fallen asleep. A very sweet little girl, whose father was well-known and much loved among us, named Cole-be, had two of her toes burned off, and the ligaments in her leg tightened overnight after she rolled into a fire from her mother's arms while they were both sleeping.

Their sight is peculiarly fine, indeed their existence very often depends upon the accuracy of it; for a short-sighted man (a misfortune unknown to them, and not yet introduced by fashion, nor relieved by the use of a glass) would never be able to defend himself from their spears, which are thrown with amazing force and velocity. I have noticed two or three men with specks on one eye, and once at Broken Bay saw in a canoe an old man who was perfectly blind. He was accompanied by a youth who paddled his canoe, and who, to my great surprise, sat behind him in it. This may, however, be in conformity to the idea of respect which is always paid to old age.

Their sight is incredibly sharp; in fact, their survival often depends on it. A short-sighted person—something they don't experience, as it's not a trend yet and they don't use glasses—would never be able to defend himself against their spears, which are thrown with impressive force and speed. I've seen a couple of men with spots on one eye, and once at Broken Bay, I noticed an old man in a canoe who was completely blind. He was with a young man who paddled the canoe and, to my surprise, sat behind him. This might reflect the respect that's always given to elders.

The colour of these people is not uniform. We have seen some who, even when cleansed from the smoke and filth which were always to be found on their persons, were nearly as black as the African negro; while others have exhibited only a copper or Malay colour. The natural covering of their heads is not wool as in most other black people, but hair; this particular may be remembered in the two natives who were in this country, Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie. The former, on his return, by having some attention paid to his dress while in London, was found to have very long black hair. Black indeed was the general colour of the hair, though I have seen some of a reddish cast; but being unaccompanied by any perceptible difference of complexion, it was perhaps more the effect of some outward cause than its natural appearance.

The skin color of these people is varied. We have seen some who, even after being cleaned of the smoke and dirt that were usually on their bodies, were almost as black as an African. Others have only shown a copper or Malay skin tone. Their natural hair is not wool like most other black people, but regular hair; this was notable in the two natives who were in this country, Bennillong and Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie. The former, upon his return and with some attention to his clothing while in London, was discovered to have very long black hair. The general hair color was indeed black, although I have seen some with a reddish tint; however, since this was not accompanied by any noticeable difference in skin tone, it might have been more due to external factors than their natural appearance.

Their noses are flat, nostrils wide, eyes much sunk in the head, and covered with thick eyebrows; in addition to which, they wear tied round the head, a net the breadth of the forehead, made of the fur of the opussum, which, when wishing to see very clearly, I have observed them draw over the eyebrows, thereby contracting the light. Their lips are thick, and the mouth extravagantly wide; but when opened discovering two rows of white, even, and sound teeth. Many had very prominent jaws; and there was one man who, but for the gift of speech, might very well have passed for an orangoutang. He was remarkably hairy; his arms appeared of an uncommon length; in his gait he was not perfectly upright; and in his whole manner seemed to have more of the brute and less of the human species about him than any of his countrymen. Those who have been in that country will, from this outline of him, recollect old We-rahng.

Their noses are flat, nostrils wide, eyes deeply set in their heads and covered with thick eyebrows; additionally, they wear a net around their heads that matches the width of their foreheads, made from opossum fur. I've noticed that when they want to see very clearly, they pull this net over their eyebrows to block the light. Their lips are thick, and their mouths are excessively wide, but when opened, they reveal two rows of white, straight, and healthy teeth. Many had very prominent jaws; there was one man who, without the ability to speak, could easily be mistaken for an orangutan. He was unusually hairy; his arms seemed longer than usual; he didn’t walk perfectly upright; and in every aspect, he appeared to embody more of a brute than a human compared to his fellow countrymen. Anyone who has been to that country will likely remember old We-rahng from this description.

APPENDIX III--HABITATIONS

Their habitations are as rude as imagination can conceive. The hut of the woodman is made of the bark of a single tree, bent in the middle, and placed on its two ends on the ground, affording shelter to only one miserable tenant. These they never carry about with them; for where we found the hut, we constantly found the tree from which it had been taken withered and dead. On the sea-coast the huts were larger, formed of pieces of bark from several trees put together in the form of an oven with an entrance, and large enough to hold six or eight people. Their fire was always at the mouth of the hut, rather within than without; and the interior was in general the nastiest smoke-dried place that could be conceived. Their unserviceable canoes were commonly broken up and applied to this use. Beside these bark huts, they made use of excavations in the rock; and as the situations of these were various, they could always choose them out of the reach of wind and rain. At the mouths of these excavations we noticed a luxuriancy of soil; and on turning up the ground, found it rich with shells and other manure. These proved a valuable resource to us, and many loads of shells were burnt into lime, while the other parts were wheeled into our gardens.

Their homes are as basic as you can imagine. A woodcutter's hut is made from the bark of a single tree, bent in the middle and resting on its ends on the ground, providing shelter for just one unfortunate person. They never move these huts; wherever we found one, we always saw that the tree it came from was dead and withered. Along the coast, the huts were bigger, made from pieces of bark from several trees shaped like an oven with an entrance, large enough to accommodate six or eight people. The fire was always at the entrance of the hut, more inside than outside, and the interior was generally the most unpleasant, smoke-dried space you could imagine. Their unusable canoes were often broken up and repurposed for this. In addition to the bark huts, they also dug into the rock; and since these spots varied, they could always pick ones shielded from the wind and rain. At the entrances of these digs, we noticed rich soil; when we turned over the ground, we found it fertile with shells and other compost. This became a valuable resource for us, as many loads of shells were burned into lime while the other material was transported to our gardens.

When in the woods I seldom met with a hut, but at the mouth of it was found an ant's nest, the dwelling of a tribe of insects about an inch in length, armed with a pair of forceps and a sting, which they applied, as many found to their cost, with a severity equal to a wound made by a knife. We conjectured, that these vermin had been drawn together by the bones and fragments of a venison feast, which had been left by the hunter.

When I was in the woods, I rarely came across a hut, but at its entrance, I found an ant's nest, home to a group of insects about an inch long, equipped with a pair of pincers and a sting, which they used—with painful results for many—quite like a knife wound. We guessed that these pests had been attracted by the bones and leftovers from a deer feast left by the hunter.

In their huts and in their caves they lie down indiscriminately mixed, men, women, and children together; and appear to possess under them much the same enjoyment as may be supposed to be found by the brute beast in his den, shelter from the weather, and, if not disturbed by external enemies, the comfort of sleep.

In their huts and caves, men, women, and children lie down in a mixed group, and they seem to experience a level of comfort similar to that of a wild animal in its den—shelter from the weather and, if not bothered by outside threats, the relaxation of sleep.

The extreme soundness with which they sleep invites jealousy, or revenge for other wrongs, to arm the hand of the assassin. Several instances of this kind occurred during our acquaintance with them, one of which was too remarkable to pass unnoticed: Yel-lo-way, a native, who seemed endowed with more urbanity than the rest of our friends, having possessed himself (though not, as I could learn, by unfair means) of Noo-roo-ing the wife of Wat-te-wal, another native well known among us, was one night murdered in his sleep by this man, who could not brook the decided preference given by Noo-roo-ing to his rival. This murder he several months after repaid in his own person, his life being taken by Cole-be, one of Yel-lo-way's friends, who stole upon him in the night, and put him to death while asleep. It was remarkable, that Cole-be found an infant lying in his arms, whom he first removed, before he drove the fatal spear into the father; he afterwards brought the child with him into the town. Yel-lo-way was so much esteemed among us, that no one was sorry he had been so revenged.

The deep sleep they enjoyed sparked jealousy and revenge for past wrongs, pushing someone to commit murder. There were several cases like this during our time with them, but one stood out: Yel-lo-way, a local who appeared more refined than our other friends, had won the affection of Noo-roo-ing, the wife of Wat-te-wal, another native we knew. One night, he was killed in his sleep by Wat-te-wal, who couldn’t handle the clear preference Noo-roo-ing showed for Yel-lo-way. Several months later, this murder was avenged when Cole-be, one of Yel-lo-way's friends, snuck up on Wat-te-wal in the night and killed him while he was asleep. It was striking that Cole-be found an infant in Wat-te-wal's arms and moved the child away before he delivered the fatal spear thrust. He later brought the child back with him to town. Yel-lo-way was so respected among us that no one mourned his vengeful end.

Being themselves sensible of the danger they ran in the night, they eagerly besought us to give them puppies of our spaniel and terrier breeds; which we did; and not a family was without one or more of these little watch-dogs, which they considered as invaluable guardians during the night; and were pleased when they found them readily devour the only regular food they had to give them, fish.

Being aware of the danger they faced at night, they eagerly asked us for puppies from our spaniel and terrier breeds, which we provided. Not a single family was without one or more of these little watchdogs, which they viewed as essential protectors during the night. They were happy to see them easily eat the only regular food they had to offer, fish.

APPENDIX IV--MODE OF LIVING

The natives on the sea-coast are those with whom we happened to be the most acquainted. Fish is their chief support. Men, women, and children are employed in procuring them; but the means used are different according to the sex; the males always killing them with the fiz-gig, while the females use the hook and line. The fiz-gig is made of the wattle; has a joint in it, fastened by gum; is from fifteen to twenty feet in length, and armed with four barbed prongs; the barb being a piece of bone secured by gum. To each of these prongs they give a particular name; but I never could discover any sensible reason for the distinction.

The locals along the coast are the ones we got to know the best. Fish is their main source of food. Both men and women, along with kids, participate in catching them, but they use different methods based on gender. Men typically catch fish with a spear, while women use hooks and lines. The spear is made from wattle, has a joint secured by gum, measures between fifteen to twenty feet long, and has four barbed prongs, with the barbs made from pieces of bone held together by gum. Each prong is given a specific name, but I could never figure out any logical reason for the different names.

The lines used by the women are made by themselves of the bark of a small tree which they find in the neighbourhood. Their hooks are made of the mother-of-pearl oyster, which they rub on a stone until it assumes the shape they want. It must be remarked, that these hooks are not barbed; they nevertheless catch fish with them with great facility.

The lines the women use are handmade from the bark of a small tree they find nearby. Their hooks are crafted from mother-of-pearl oyster, which they smooth on a stone until it’s the shape they want. It’s worth noting that these hooks aren’t barbed; still, they catch fish with ease using them.

While fishing, the women generally sing; and I have often seen them in their canoes chewing muscles or cockles, or boiled fish, which they spit into the water as a bait. In these canoes, they always carry a small fire laid upon sea-weed or sand; wherewith, when desirous of eating, they find a ready material for dressing their meal. This fire accounted for an appearance which we noticed in many of the women about the small of the back. We at first thought it must have been the effect of stripes; but the situation of them was questionable, and led us to make inquiry, when we found it to be the effect of the fires in the canoes.

While fishing, the women usually sing; and I’ve often seen them in their canoes snacking on mussels or cockles, or boiled fish, which they spit into the water as bait. In these canoes, they always carry a small fire set up on seaweed or sand; when they want to eat, they have an easy way to cook their meal. This fire explained a feature we noticed in many of the women around their lower backs. At first, we thought it must have been the result of stripes; but the placement of them was questionable, prompting us to investigate, and we discovered it was caused by the fires in the canoes.

In addition to fish, they indulge themselves with a delicacy which I have seen them eager to procure. In the body of the dwarf gum tree are several large worms and grubs, which they speedily divest of antennae, legs, etc. and, to our wonder and disgust, devour. A servant of mine, an European, has often joined them in eating this luxury; and has assured me, that it was sweeter than any marrow he had ever tasted; and the natives themselves appeared to find a peculiar relish in it.

Besides fish, they treat themselves to a delicacy that I’ve seen them eager to get. Inside the trunk of the dwarf gum tree are several large worms and grubs, which they quickly remove the antennae, legs, and other parts from, and, to our amazement and disgust, eat. One of my servants, a European, has often joined them in enjoying this treat; and he told me it was sweeter than any marrow he had ever tasted; and the locals seemed to really enjoy it too.

The woods, exclusive of the animals which they occasionally find in their neighbourhood, afford them but little sustenance; a few berries, the yam and fern-root, the flowers of the different banksia, and at times some honey, make up the whole vegetable catalogue.

The woods, aside from the animals they sometimes find nearby, provide very little food; a few berries, yams and fern roots, the flowers of various banksia, and occasionally some honey make up their entire vegetable list.

The natives who live in the woods and on the margins of rivers are compelled to seek a different subsistence, and are driven to a harder exercise of their abilities to procure it. This is evinced in the hazard and toll with which they ascend the tallest trees after the opossum and flying squirrel. At the foot of Richmond Hill, I once found several places constructed expressly for the purpose of ensnaring animals or birds. These were wide enough at the entrance to admit a person without much difficulty; but tapering away gradually from the entrance to the end, and terminating in a small wickered grate. It was between forty and fifty feet in length; on each side the earth was thrown up; and the whole was constructed of weeds, rushes, and brambles: but so well secured, that an animal once within it could not possibly liberate itself. We supposed that the prey, be it beast or bird, was hunted and driven into this toil; and concluded, from finding one of them destroyed by fire, that they force it to the grated end, where it is soon killed by their spears. In one I saw a common rat, and in another the feathers of a quail.

The locals who live in the woods and by the rivers have to find different ways to survive, and they have to work harder to get what they need. This is evident in the danger and effort it takes to climb the tallest trees after possums and flying squirrels. At the base of Richmond Hill, I once discovered several spots specifically created for capturing animals or birds. These entrances were wide enough for a person to fit through easily, but they gradually narrowed towards the end and ended in a small woven grate. It was about forty to fifty feet long; dirt was piled up on both sides, and it was made of weeds, reeds, and thorny bushes: but it was so securely built that once an animal was inside, it couldn’t escape. We thought that the prey, whether animal or bird, was chased and driven into this trap, and we concluded from finding one of them destroyed by fire that they pushed it towards the grated end, where it was quickly killed with their spears. In one, I saw a common rat, and in another, some quail feathers.

By the sides of lagoons I have met with holes which, on examining, were found excavated for some space, and their mouths so covered over with grass, that a bird or beast stepping on it would inevitably fall in, and from its depth be unable to escape.

By the edges of lagoons, I've come across holes that, upon closer look, were dug out for some depth, and their openings covered with grass so that any bird or animal stepping on it would definitely fall in and wouldn't be able to get out due to the depth.

In an excursion to the Hawkesbury, we fell in with a native and his child on the banks of one of the creeks of that noble river. We had Cole-be with us, who endeavoured, but in vain, to bring him to a conference; he launched his canoe, and got away as expeditiously as he could, leaving behind him a specimen of his food and the delicacy of his stomach; a piece of water-soaked wood (part of the branch of a tree) full of holes, the lodgment of a large worm, named by them cah-bro, and which they extract and eat; but nothing could be more offensive than the smell of both the worm and its habitation. There is a tribe of natives dwelling inland, who, from the circumstance of their eating these loathsome worms, are named Cah-bro-gal.

On a trip to the Hawkesbury, we came across a native man and his child on the banks of one of the river's creeks. We had Cole-be with us, who tried, but unsuccessfully, to get him to talk; the man launched his canoe and paddled away as quickly as he could, leaving behind a sample of his food and showing us the delicacy of his palate: a piece of waterlogged wood (part of a tree branch) full of holes, where a large worm, called cah-bro, lives, which they dig out and eat. But nothing could be more unpleasant than the smell of both the worm and its home. There’s a tribe of natives living inland who are called Cah-bro-gal because they eat these disgusting worms.

They resort at a certain season of the year (the month of April) to the lagoons, where they subsist on eels which they procure by laying hollow pieces of timber into the water, into which the eels creep, and are easily taken.

They go to the lagoons during a specific time of year (April) to live off eels that they catch by placing hollow logs into the water. The eels crawl inside, making them easy to catch.

These wood natives also make a paste formed of the fern-root and the large and small ant bruised together; in the season they also add the eggs of this insect.

These wood natives also create a paste made from fern roots and crushed large and small ants mixed together; during the season, they also add the eggs of this insect.

APPENDIX V--COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE

How will the refined ear of gallantry be wounded at reading an account of the courtship of these people! I have said that there was a delicacy visible in the manners of the females. Is it not shocking then to think that the prelude to love in this country should be violence? Yet such it is, and of the most brutal nature of these unfortunate victims of lust and cruelty (I can call them by no better name) are, I believe, always selected from the women of a tribe different from that of the males (for they ought not to be dignified with the title of men) and with whom they are at enmity. Secrecy is necessarily observed, and the poor wretch is stolen upon in the absence of her protectors; being first stupified with blows, inflicted with clubs or wooden swords, on the head, back, and shoulders, every one of which is followed by a stream of blood, she is dragged through the woods by one arm, with a perseverance and violence that one might suppose would displace it from its socket; the lover, or rather the ravisher, is regardless of the stones or broken pieces of trees which may lie in his route, being anxious only to convey his prize in safety to his own party, where a scene ensues too shocking to relate. This outrage is not resented by the relations of the female, who only retaliate by a similar outrage when they find it in their power. This is so constantly the practice among them, that even the children make it a game or exercise; and I have often, on hearing the cries of the girls with whom they were playing, ran out of my house, thinking some murder was committed, but have found the whole party laughing at my mistake.

How will the refined sensibilities of chivalry be hurt when they read about the courtship of these people! I’ve said that there’s a certain delicacy in the behavior of the women. Isn’t it shocking to think that the way love begins in this country is with violence? Yet that’s exactly the case, and the most brutal of these unfortunate victims of lust and cruelty (I can't think of a better term) are, I believe, always chosen from women of a tribe different from that of the men (who really shouldn’t be called men) and with whom they are in conflict. They keep it a secret, and the poor woman is ambushed when her protectors are not around; she's first stunned with blows from clubs or wooden swords to her head, back, and shoulders, each strike leaving a trail of blood. Then she is dragged through the woods by one arm, with such force that it seems like it would pull her arm out of its socket. The so-called lover, or rather the attacker, pays no attention to the stones or broken branches in his way, only focused on taking his prize back to his group, where a scene happens that’s too horrific to describe. This violation is not avenged by the woman’s family, who only respond with a similar act of violence when they can. This practice is so common among them that even the children turn it into a game; I’ve often rushed out of my house thinking a murder was taking place, only to find the whole group laughing at my mistake.

The women thus ravished become their wives, are incorporated into the tribe to which the husband belongs, and but seldom quit him for another.

The women who are taken become their wives, join the tribe of their husbands, and rarely leave him for someone else.

Many of the men with whom we were acquainted did not confine themselves to one woman. Bennillong, previous to his visit to England, was possessed of two wives (if wives they may be called), both living with him and attending on him wherever he went. One named Ba-rang-a-roo, who was of the tribe of Cam-mer-ray (Bennillong himself was a Wahn-gal), lived with him at the time he was seized and brought a captive to the settlemerit with Cole-be; and before her death he had brought off from Botany Bay, by the violence before described, Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo, the daughter of an old man named Met-ty, a native of that district; and she continued with him until his departure for England. We were told, on the banks of the Hawkesbury, that all the men there, and inland, had two wives. Cole-be, Bennillong's friend, had two female companions; and we found, indeed, more instances of plurality of wives than of monogamy. I do not recollect ever noticing children by both; and observed, that in general, as might be expected, the two women were always jealous of and quarrelling with each other. I have heard them say, that the first wife claimed a priority of attachment and exclusive right to the conjugal embrace; while the second or latter choice was compelled to be the slave and drudge of both.

Many of the men we knew didn't stick to one woman. Before his trip to England, Bennillong had two wives (if you can call them that), both living with him and following him wherever he went. One was named Ba-rang-a-roo, from the Cam-mer-ray tribe (Bennillong himself was a Wahn-gal), and she was with him when he was captured and brought to the settlement with Cole-be. Before her death, he also took Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo from Botany Bay, through the previously described violence; she was the daughter of a local man named Met-ty and stayed with him until he left for England. We heard from people along the Hawkesbury River that all the men there and inland had two wives. Cole-be, Bennillong's friend, had two female companions as well, and we actually saw more cases of having multiple wives than of monogamy. I don't remember ever seeing children from both women and noticed that, as you might expect, the two were usually jealous and often fought with each other. I heard them say that the first wife claimed priority and exclusive rights to intimacy, while the second or later choice had to be the servant and work for both of them.

Chastity was a virtue in which they certainly did not pride themselves; at least, we knew women who, for a loaf of bread, a blanket, or a shirt, gave up any claim to it, when either was offered by a white man; and many white men were found who held out the temptation. Several girls, who were protected in the settlement, had not any objection to passing the night on board of ships, though some had learned shame enough (for shame was not naturally inherent in them) to conceal, on their landing, the spoils they had procured during their stay. They had also discovered that we thought it shameful to be seen naked; and I have observed many of them extremely reserved and delicate in this respect when before us; but when in the presence of only their own people, perfectly indifferent about their appearance.

Chastity wasn't a virtue they were proud of; at least, we knew women who would trade it for a loaf of bread, a blanket, or a shirt if a white man offered them. Many white men were ready to make that offer. Several girls living in the settlement didn’t mind spending the night on ships, though some had learned enough shame (which wasn’t something they were born with) to hide what they had gained during their time there once they got back on land. They also figured out that we found it shameful to be seen naked, and I noticed many of them acted very modest around us. However, when they were with their own people, they were completely unconcerned about their appearance.

APPENDIX VI--CUSTOMS AND MANNERS

During the time of parturition these people suffer none but females to be present. War-re-weer, Bennillong's sister, being taken in labour in the town, an opportunity offered of observing them in that critical juncture, of which some of our women, who were favourites with the girl, were desired to avail themselves; and from them we learned, that during her labour one female, Boo-roong, was employed in pouring cold water from time to time on the abdomen, while another, tying one end of a small line round War-re-weer's neck, with the other end rubbed her own lips until they bled. She derived no actual assistance from those who were about her, the child coming into the world by the sole efforts of nature; neither did any one receive it from her; but, having let it drop, one of our women divided the umbilical cord; after which, she retired to a small hole which had been prepared for her, over which she sat until the after-birth took place. The person who cut the navel-string washed the child, which she readily permitted, though Boo-roong and the other natives objected to it. She appeared much exhausted, and, being faint, fell across a fire that was in the place, but without receiving any injury.

During childbirth, these people only allow females to be present. When War-re-weer, Bennillong's sister, went into labor in town, it was a chance for us to observe the process, which some of our women, who were close to her, were encouraged to do. From them, we learned that during her labor, one woman, Boo-roong, poured cold water on her abdomen at intervals, while another tied one end of a small cord around War-re-weer's neck and rubbed her own lips until they bled with the other end. She didn't really get any help from those around her; the baby was born solely through nature's efforts. No one assisted her with the baby either, but after she let it fall, one of our women cut the umbilical cord. Then, she went to a small hole that had been prepared for her and sat there until the afterbirth came. The woman who cut the cord washed the baby, which War-re-weer allowed, although Boo-roong and the other natives didn’t agree with it. She looked very tired and faint, and at one point fell toward a fire nearby, but thankfully she didn’t get hurt.

I saw Bennillong's wife a few hours after she had been delivered of a child. To my great surprise she was walking about alone, and picking up sticks to mend her fire. The infant, whose skin appeared to have a reddish cast, was lying in a piece of soft bark on the ground, the umbilical cord depending about three inches from the navel. I remained with her for some time, during which she was endeavouring to get it off, to effect which she made use of the small bone of the leg of the kangaroo, round the point of which Bennillong had rolled some punk, so that it looked not unlike the button of a foil. She held it every now and then to the fire, then applied and pressed it to the navel until it cooled. This was persevered in, till the mother thought the cord sufficiently deadened, and then with a shell she separated it.*

I saw Bennillong's wife a few hours after she had given birth. To my surprise, she was walking around alone, gathering sticks to start a fire. The baby, whose skin had a reddish hue, was lying on a piece of soft bark on the ground, with the umbilical cord hanging about three inches from the navel. I stayed with her for a while while she was trying to remove it. She used a small bone from a kangaroo's leg, around the end of which Bennillong had wrapped some punk, making it look like the button of a foil. She occasionally held it to the fire, then pressed it against the navel until it cooled. She kept at this until she thought the cord was dead enough, and then used a shell to cut it off.*

[* I here find in my papers a note, that for some offence Bennillong had severely beaten this woman in the morning, a short time before she was delivered.]

[* I found a note in my papers stating that Bennillong had brutally beaten this woman in the morning, shortly before she gave birth.]

The infant thus produced is by the mother carried about for some days on a piece of soft bark; and, as soon as it acquires strength enough, is removed to her shoulders, where it sits with its little legs across her neck; and, taught by necessity, soon catches hold of her hair to preserve itself from falling.

The baby is carried by the mother for several days on a soft piece of bark; and as soon as it gets strong enough, it's moved to her shoulders, where it sits with its little legs draped across her neck; and out of necessity, it quickly learns to grab onto her hair to keep from falling.

The reddish cast of the skin soon gives place to the natural hue, a change that is much assisted by the smoke and dirt in which, from the moment of their existence, these children are nurtured. The parents begin early to decorate them after the custom of the country. As soon as the hair of the head can be taken hold of, fish-bones and the teeth of animals are fastened to it with gum. White clay ornaments their little limbs; and the females suffer the extraordinary amputation which they term mal-gun before they have quitted their seat on their mother's shoulders.

The reddish tint on their skin quickly fades to its natural color, a change that's greatly influenced by the smoke and dirt that surround these children from the moment they are born. Their parents start decorating them in the local style right away. Once there's enough hair on their heads to grab, fish bones and animal teeth are attached using gum. White clay adorns their tiny limbs; and the girls undergo a significant procedure they call mal-gun before they even get off their mother’s shoulders.

In about a month or six weeks the child receives its name. This is generally taken from some of the objects constantly before their eyes, such as a bird, a beast, or a fish, and is given without any ceremony. Thus Bennillong's child Dilboong was so named after a small bird, which we often heard in low wet grounds and in copses. An elderly woman who occasionally visited us was named Mau-ber-ry, the term by which they distinguish the gurnet from other fish. Bennillong told me, his name was that of a large fish, but one that I never saw taken. Bal-loo-der-ry signified the fish named by us the leathern-jacket; and there were two girls in the town named Pat-ye-ga-rang, a corruption of Pat-ta-go-rang, the name of the large grey kangaroo. Other instances might be adduced; but these are sufficient to show the prevalence of the custom.

In about a month or six weeks, the child gets its name. This is usually taken from things that are constantly around them, like a bird, a beast, or a fish, and it's given without any ceremony. For example, Bennillong's child Dilboong was named after a small bird we often heard in damp areas and thickets. An elderly woman who sometimes visited us was called Mau-ber-ry, the term they use to refer to the gurnet fish. Bennillong told me that his name was that of a large fish, but it's one I never saw caught. Bal-loo-der-ry referred to the fish we call the leathern-jacket; and there were two girls in the town named Pat-ye-ga-rang, a variation of Pat-ta-go-rang, the name for the large grey kangaroo. There are more examples, but these are enough to show how common this practice is.

At an early age the females wear round the waist a small line made of the twisted hair of the opossum, from the centre of which depend a few small uneven lines from two to five inches long, made of the same materials. This they term bar-rin, and wear it until they are grown into women and are attached to men.

At a young age, the girls wear a small string around their waist made from the twisted hair of the opossum. Hanging from the center are a few small, uneven strands that are two to five inches long, made of the same material. They call this bar-rin and wear it until they mature into women and become connected to men.

The union of the sexes takes place at an earlier period than is usual in colder regions. We have known several instances of very young girls having been much and shamefully abused by the males.

The union between the sexes happens earlier than is typical in colder areas. We have seen several cases of very young girls being heavily and disgracefully mistreated by boys.

From their earliest infancy the boys are accustomed to throwing the spear, and to the habit of defending themselves from it. They begin by throwing reeds at each other, and are soon very expert. They also, from the time when they can run, until prompted by manhood to realize their sports, amuse themselves with stealing the females, and treat them at this time very little worse than they do then.

From a young age, the boys get used to throwing spears and learning how to defend themselves against them. They start by tossing reeds at each other and quickly become pretty skilled. Additionally, from the time they can run until they reach adulthood and start to understand their games, they entertain themselves by taking the girls and treat them only slightly worse than they do later on.

Among their juvenile exercises I observed that of throwing up a ball, and passing it from one to another. They also provide themselves with small sticks, and range themselves in a row, when the one at the upper end rolls a ball or any other round substance along the front of his companions, every one of whom endeavours to strike it as it passes. This is a favourite exercise with them, and of course they excel at it.

Among their playful activities, I noticed them tossing a ball around and passing it between each other. They also use small sticks and line up in a row, with the person at the front rolling a ball or any other round object along the line while everyone tries to hit it as it goes by. This is a favorite game for them, and naturally, they are really good at it.

Between the ages of eight and sixteen, the males and females undergo the operation which they term Gnah-noong, viz that of having the septum nasi bored, to receive a bone or reed, which among them is deemed a great ornament, though I have seen many whose articulation was thereby rendered very imperfect. Between the same years also the males receive the qualifications which are given to them by losing one of the front teeth. This ceremony occurred twice during my residence in New South Wales; and in the second operation I was fortunate enough to attend them during the whole of the time, attended by a person well qualified to make drawings of every particular circumstance that occurred. A remarkable coincidence of time was noticed as to the season in which it took place. It was first performed in the beginning of the month of February 1791; and exactly at the same period in the year 1795 the second operation occurred. As they have not any idea of numbers beyond three, and of course have no regular computation of time, this can only be ascribed to chance, particularly as the season could not have much share in their choice, February being one of the hot months.

Between the ages of eight and sixteen, both boys and girls go through a procedure they call Gnah-noong, which involves boring the septum nasi to insert a bone or reed, considered a significant ornament among them, although I've seen many whose speech became quite impaired as a result. During these same years, boys also receive a rite of passage when they lose one of their front teeth. This ceremony took place twice while I was in New South Wales; during the second event, I was fortunate to observe the entire process with a skilled person who documented every detail. A striking coincidence regarding timing was noted for when it occurred. The first ceremony happened at the beginning of February 1791, and exactly four years later, in February 1795, the second one took place. Since they don't have a concept of numbers beyond three and thus no formal way to track time, this must be attributed to chance, especially since the time of year couldn't have influenced their choice, as February is one of the hotter months.

On the 25th of January 1795 we found that the natives were assembling in numbers for the purpose of performing this ceremony. Several youths well known among us, never having submitted to the operation, were now to be made men. Pe-mul-wy, a wood native, and many strangers, came in; but the principals in the operation not being arrived from Cam-mer-ray, the intermediate nights were to be passed in dancing. Among them we observed one man painted white to the middle, his beard and eye-brows excepted, and all together a frightful object. Others were distinguished by large white circles round the eyes, which rendered them as terrific as can well be imagined. It was not until the 2nd of February that the party was complete. In the evening of that day the people from Cam-mer-ray arrived, among whom were those who were to perform the operation, all of whom appeared to have been impatiently expected by the other natives. They were painted after the manner of the country, were mostly provided with shields, and all armed with clubs, spears, and throwing sticks. The place selected for this extraordinary exhibition was at the head of Farm Cove, where a space had been for some days prepared by clearing it of grass, stumps, etc.; it was of an oval figure, the dimensions of it 27 feet by 18, and was named Yoo-lahng.

On January 25, 1795, we noticed that the locals were gathering in large numbers to carry out this ceremony. Several young men we knew, who had never undergone the procedure, were about to become men. Pe-mul-wy, a local from the woods, and many others arrived, but the key participants from Cam-mer-ray hadn't yet come, so the nights in between were spent dancing. Among them, we saw one man painted white up to his waist, except for his beard and eyebrows, making him quite a frightening sight. Others had large white circles around their eyes, which made them look even more terrifying. It wasn't until February 2 that the group was complete. That evening, the people from Cam-mer-ray arrived, including those who were to carry out the procedure, all of whom seemed to have been eagerly awaited by the other locals. They were painted in the traditional style, mostly carrying shields, and all armed with clubs, spears, and throwing sticks. The location chosen for this extraordinary event was at the head of Farm Cove, where a space had been prepared for several days by clearing away grass, stumps, and other debris; it was oval-shaped, measuring 27 feet by 18, and it was named Yoo-lahng.

When we arrived at the spot, we found the party from the north shore armed, and standing at one end of it; at the other we saw a party consisting of the boys who were to be given up for the purpose of losing each a tooth, and their several friends who accompanied them.

When we got to the place, we saw the group from the north shore armed and standing at one end; on the other end, we spotted a group of boys who were about to lose a tooth, along with their friends who were there with them.

They then began the ceremony. The armed party advanced from their end of the Yoo-lahng with a song or rather a shout peculiar to this occasion, clattering their shields and spears, and raising a dust with their feet that nearly obscured the objects around them. On reaching the farther end of the Yoo-lahng, where the children were placed, one of the party stepped from the crowd, and seizing his victim returned with him to his party, who received him with a shout louder than usual, placing him in the midst, where he seemed defended by a grove of spears from any attempts that his friends might make to rescue him. In this manner the whole were taken out, to the number of fifteen; among them appeared Ca-ru-ey, a youth of about sixteen or seventeen years of age, and a young man, a stranger to us, of about twenty-three.

They then started the ceremony. The armed group moved forward from their side of the Yoo-lahng with a song—or more like a shout—specific to this event, banging their shields and spears and kicking up dust that nearly obscured the surroundings. Upon reaching the far end of the Yoo-lahng, where the children were gathered, one member stepped out from the crowd, grabbed his chosen victim, and returned to his group, who greeted him with an even louder shout than usual, placing him in the center where he seemed protected by a circle of spears from any attempts by his friends to save him. In this way, all fifteen were taken, including Ca-ru-ey, a young man of about sixteen or seventeen years old, and a young man, unfamiliar to us, around twenty-three.

The number being collected that were to undergo the operation, they were seated at the upper end of the Yoo-lahng, each holding down the head; his hands clasped, and his legs crossed under him. In this position, awkward and painful as it must have been, we understood they were to remain all night; and, in short, that until the ceremony was concluded, they were neither to look up nor take any refreshment whatsoever.

The people who were gathered to undergo the operation were seated at the upper end of the Yoo-lahng, each holding their head down; their hands clasped, and legs crossed under them. In this position, awkward and painful as it must have been, we understood they were to stay like that all night; and, in short, that until the ceremony was over, they were not to look up or have any refreshments at all.

The carrahdis now began some of their mystical rites. One of them suddenly fell upon the ground, and throwing himself into a variety of attitudes, accompanied with every gesticulation that could be extorted by pain, appeared to be at length delivered of a bone, which was to be used in the ensuing ceremony. He was during this apparently painful process encircled by a crowd of natives, who danced around him, singing vociferously, while one or more beat him on the back until the bone was produced, and he was thereby freed from his pain.

The carrahdis now started some of their mystical rituals. One of them suddenly collapsed onto the ground, and as he contorted into various positions, making every gesture that pain could force him to, he seemed to finally expel a bone that was intended for the upcoming ceremony. Throughout this seemingly painful ordeal, he was surrounded by a crowd of locals who danced around him, singing loudly, while one or more of them beat him on the back until the bone was brought out, freeing him from his pain.

He had no sooner risen from the ground exhausted, drooping, and bathed in sweat, than another threw himself down with similar gesticulations, who went through the same ceremonies, and ended also with the production of a bone, with which he had taken care to provide himself, and to conceal it in a girdle which he wore.

He had barely gotten up from the ground, exhausted, slumped over, and drenched in sweat, when someone else threw himself down with similar movements, going through the same rituals, and also ended by pulling out a bone that he had made sure to bring along and hide in the belt he was wearing.

We were told, that by these mummeries (for they were in fact nothing else) the boys were assured that the ensuing operation would be attended with scarcely any pain, and that the more these carrahdis suffered, the less would be felt by them.

We were told that through these performances (because that's all they really were), the boys were assured that the upcoming procedure would involve hardly any pain, and that the more these distractions were endured, the less they would feel.

It being now perfectly dark, we quitted the place, with an invitation to return early in the morning, and a promise of much entertainment from the ensuing ceremony. We left the boys sitting silent, and in the position before described, in which we were told they were to remain until morning.

It was now completely dark, so we left the place after being invited to come back early in the morning, with a promise of lots of entertainment from the upcoming ceremony. We left the boys sitting quietly, just as described before, which we were told they had to stay in until morning.

On repairing to the place soon after daylight, we found the natives sleeping in small detached parties; and it was not until the sun had shown himself that any of them began to stir. We observed that the people from the north shore slept by themselves, and the boys, though we heard they were not to be moved, were lying also by themselves at some little distance from the Yoo-lahng. Towards this, soon after sunrise, the carrahdis and their party advanced in quick movement, one after the other, shouting as they entered, and running twice or thrice round it. The boys were then brought to the Yoo-lahng, hanging their heads and clasping their hands. On their being seated in this manner, the ceremonies began, the principal performers in which appeared to be about twenty in number, and all of the tribe of Cammeray.

Upon arriving at the location shortly after sunrise, we found the natives sleeping in small, separate groups; it wasn't until the sun was fully up that any of them started to wake. We noticed that the people from the north shore slept alone, and the boys, although we heard they weren’t supposed to be moved, were also lying by themselves a short distance from the Yoo-lahng. Soon after sunrise, the carrahdis and their group moved in quickly, one after the other, shouting as they entered and running around it two or three times. The boys were then brought to the Yoo-lahng, their heads down and hands clasped. Once they were seated this way, the ceremonies began, with the main participants numbering around twenty, all from the Cammeray tribe.

The exhibitions now performed were numerous and various; but all of them in their tendency pointed toward the boys, and had some allusion to the principal act of the day, which was to be the concluding scene of it. The ceremony will be found pretty accurately represented in the annexed Engravings.

The exhibitions being held were many and diverse; however, they all aimed towards the boys and hinted at the main event of the day, which would be the final scene. The ceremony is depicted quite accurately in the attached engravings.

No. 1 Represents the young men, fifteen in number, seated at the head of the Yoo-lahng, while those who were to be the operators paraded several times round it, running upon their hands and feet, and imitating the dogs of the country. Their dress was adapted to this purpose; the wooden sword, stuck in the hinder part of the girdle which they wore round the waist, did not, when they were crawling on all fours, look much unlike the tail of a dog curled over his back. Every time they passed the place where the boys were seated, they threw up the sand and dust on them with their hands and their feet. During this ceremony the boys sat perfectly still and silent, never once moving themselves from the position in which they were placed, nor seeming in the least to notice the ridiculous appearance of the carrahdis and their associates.

No. 1 Represents the young men, fifteen in total, sitting at the head of the Yoo-lahng, while those who were to be the performers paraded around it several times, crawling on their hands and feet and mimicking the dogs of the region. Their costumes were designed for this purpose; the wooden sword, tucked into the back of the waistband they wore, looked quite like a dog's tail curled over its back when they crawled on all fours. Each time they passed where the boys were seated, they kicked up sand and dust onto them with their hands and feet. Throughout this ceremony, the boys remained perfectly still and silent, never shifting from their positions or showing any signs of noticing the silly antics of the carrahdis and their companions.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 1

We understood that by this ceremony power over the dog was given to them, and that it endowed them with whatever good or beneficial qualities that animal might possess.

We understood that through this ceremony, they were given power over the dog, and that it granted them all the good or beneficial qualities that the animal might have.

The dogs of this country are of the jackal species; they never bark; are of two colours, the one red with some white about it; the other quite black. They have an invincible predilection for poultry, which the severest beatings could never repress. Some of them are very handsome.

The dogs in this country are a type of jackal; they never bark and come in two colors: one is red with some white, and the other is completely black. They have an unstoppable love for poultry, which the harshest beatings could never stop. Some of them are quite attractive.

No. 2 Represents the young men seated as before. The first figure in the plate is a stout robust native, carrying on his shoulders a pat-ta-go-rang or kangaroo made of grass; the second is carrying a load of brush-wood. The other figures, seated about, are singing, and beating time to the steps of the two loaded men, who appeared as if they were almost unable to move under the weight of the burthen which they carried on their shoulders. Halting every now and then, and limping, they at last deposited their load at the feet of the young men, and retired from the Yoo-lahng as if they were excessively fatigued by what they had done. It must be noticed, that the man who carried the brush-wood had thrust one or two flowering shrubs through the septum nasi. He exhibited an extraordinary appearance in this scene.

No. 2 Shows the young men sitting as before. The first figure in the image is a strong native man, carrying a kangaroo made of grass on his shoulders; the second is carrying a load of firewood. The other figures seated around are singing and keeping time to the movements of the two loaded men, who looked like they could barely move under the weight they were carrying. They stopped every now and then, limping, and finally dropped their load at the feet of the young men, leaving the Yoo-lahng as if they were extremely tired from what they had done. It's worth noting that the man carrying the firewood had shoved one or two flowering shrubs through his nose. He looked quite remarkable in this scene.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 2

By this offering of the dead kangaroo was meant the power that was now given them of killing that animal; the brush-wood might represent its haunt.

By this offering of the dead kangaroo was meant the power that was now given them to kill that animal; the brushwood might represent its habitat.

No. 3 The boys were left seated at the Yoo-lahng for about half an hour; during which the actors went down into a valley near the place, where they fitted themselves with long tails made of grass, which they fastened to the hinder part of their girdles, instead of the sword, which was laid aside during the scene. Being equipped, they put themselves in motion as a herd of kangaroos, now jumping along, then lying down and scratching themselves, as those animals do when basking in the sun. One man beat time to them with a club on a shield, while two others armed, attended them all the way, pretending to steal upon them unobserved and spear them.

No. 3 The boys sat at the Yoo-lahng for about half an hour while the actors went down into a nearby valley to get ready. They attached long tails made of grass to the backs of their belts, replacing the swords they set aside for the scene. Once they were set, they moved like a herd of kangaroos, jumping around and then lying down to scratch themselves just like those animals do when soaking up the sun. One man kept the rhythm with a club on a shield, while two others, armed, followed them, pretending to sneak up and spear them.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 3

This was emblematical of one of their future exercises, the hunting of the kangaroo.

This symbolized one of their upcoming activities, the kangaroo hunt.

The scene was altogether whimsical and curious; the valley where they equipped themselves was very romantic, and the occasion extraordinary and perfectly novel.

The scene was completely whimsical and intriguing; the valley where they prepared was quite charming, and the moment was unusual and entirely fresh.

No. 4 On the arrival of this curious party at the Yoo-lahng, it passed by the boys, as the herd of Kangaroo, and then quickly divesting themselves of their artificial tails, each man caught up a boy, and, placing him on his shoulders, carried him off in triumph toward the last scene of this extraordinary exhibition.

No. 4 When this strange group arrived at the Yoo-lahng, they walked past the boys like a herd of kangaroos, and then quickly removing their fake tails, each man grabbed a boy and, lifting him onto his shoulders, carried him off in triumph toward the final act of this amazing show.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 4

It must be remarked, that the friends and relations of the young people by no means interfered, nor attempted to molest the north shore natives in the execution of their business.

It should be noted that the friends and family of the young people did not interfere or try to bother the natives of the north shore while they carried out their work.

No. 5 After walking a short distance, the boys were let down from the shoulders of the men, and placed in a cluster, standing with their heads inclined on their breasts, and their hands clasped together. Some of the party disappeared for above ten minutes to arrange the figure of the next scene. I was not admitted to witness this business, about which they appeared to observe a greater degree of mystery and preparation than I had noticed in either of the preceding ceremonies. We were at length desired to come forward, when we found the figures as placed in the plate No. 5.

No. 5 After walking a little way, the boys were taken down from the men's shoulders and grouped together, standing with their heads bowed and their hands clasped. Some of the group left for over ten minutes to set up the next scene. I wasn't allowed to see this, and they seemed to treat it with more secrecy and preparation than I had seen in the previous ceremonies. Eventually, we were asked to come forward, where we saw the figures arranged as shown in plate No. 5.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 5

The group on the left are the boys and those who attended them; fronting them were seen two men, one seated on the stump of a tree bearing another man on his shoulders, both with their arms extended: behind these were seen a number of bodies lying with their faces toward the ground, as close to each other as they could lie, and at the foot of another stump of a tree, on which were placed two other figures in the same position as the preceding.

The group on the left consists of the boys and those who were with them; facing them were two men, one sitting on a tree stump carrying another man on his shoulders, both with their arms stretched out. Behind them, there were several bodies lying face down as close together as possible, and at the base of another tree stump, there were two more figures in the same position as the first ones.

As the boys and their attendants approached the first of these figures, the men who formed it began to move themselves from side to side, lolling out their tongues, and staring as wide and horribly with their eyes as they could open them. After this mummery had continued some minutes, the men separated for them to pass, and the boys were now led over the bodies lying on the ground. These immediately began to move, writhing as if in agony, and uttering a mournful dismal sound, like very distant thunder. Having passed over these bodies, the boys were placed before the second figures, who went through the same series of grimaces as those who were seated on the former stump; after which the whole moved forward.

As the boys and their attendants approached the first of these figures, the men making it began to sway from side to side, sticking out their tongues, and staring as wide and frighteningly as they could. After this spectacle had gone on for a few minutes, the men parted to let them through, and the boys were now guided over the bodies lying on the ground. These bodies immediately started to move, writhing as if in pain and making a mournful, eerie sound like distant thunder. After passing over these bodies, the boys were placed in front of the second figures, who made the same series of grimaces as those seated on the earlier stump; after that, everyone moved forward.

A particular name, boo-roo-moo-roong, was given to this scene; but of its import I could learn very little. I made much inquiry; but could never obtain any other answer, than that it was very good; that the boys would now become brave men; that they would see well, and fight well.

A specific name, boo-roo-moo-roong, was assigned to this scene; however, I couldn't find out much about its significance. I asked many questions, but the only response I received was that it was very good; that the boys would become brave men; that they would see clearly and fight well.

No. 6 At a little distance from the preceding scene the whole party halted; the boys were seated by each other, while opposite to them were drawn up in a half circle the other party, now armed with the spear and the shield. In the centre of this party, with his face toward them, stood Boo-der-ro, the native who had throughout taken the principal part in the business. He held his shield in one hand, and a club in the other, with which he gave them, as it were, the time for their exercise. Striking the shield with the club, at every third stroke the whole party poised and presented their spears at him, pointing them inwards, and touching the centre of his shield.

No. 6 A short distance from the last scene, the whole group stopped. The boys were sitting next to each other, while the other group formed a half circle across from them, now armed with spears and shields. In the center of this group, facing them, stood Boo-der-ro, the local who had been the main actor in this affair. He held his shield in one hand and a club in the other, using it to keep the rhythm for their exercise. Striking the shield with the club, at every third hit, the whole group lifted and pointed their spears at him, aiming them inward and touching the center of his shield.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 6

This concluded the ceremonies previous to the operation; and it appeared significant of an exercise which was to form the principal business of their lives, the use of the spear.

This wrapped up the ceremonies leading up to the operation, and it seemed significant of an activity that would become the main focus of their lives: using the spear.

No. 7 They now commenced their preparations for striking out the tooth. The first subject they took out was a boy of about ten years of age: he was seated on the shoulders of another native who sat on the grass, as appears in this Plate.

No. 7 They started getting ready to pull the tooth. The first person they took out was a boy around ten years old: he was sitting on the shoulders of another native who was sitting on the grass, as shown in this Plate.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 7

The bone was now produced which had been pretended to be taken from the stomach of the native the preceding evening; this, being made very sharp and fine at one end, was used for lancing the gum, and but for some such precaution it would have been impossible to have got out the tooth without breaking the jaw-bone. A throwing-stick was now to be cut about eight or ten inches from the end; and to effect this, much ceremony was used. The stick was laid upon a tree, and three attempts to hit it were made before it was struck. The wood being very hard, and the instrument a bad tomahawk, it took several blows to divide it; but three feints were constantly made before each stroke. When the gum was properly prepared, the operation began; the smallest end of the stick was applied as high up on the tooth as the gum would admit of, while the operator stood ready with a large stone apparently to drive the tooth down the throat of his patient. Here their attention to the number three was again manifest; no stroke was actually made until the operator had thrice attempted to hit the throwing-stick. They were full ten minutes about this first operation, the tooth being, unfortunately for the boy, fixed very firm in the gum. It was at last forced out, and the sufferer was taken away to a little distance, where the gum was closed by his friends, who now equipped him in the style he was to appear in for some days. A girdle was tied round his waist, in which was stuck a wooden sword; a ligature was put round his head, in which were stuck slips of the grass-gum tree, which, being white, had a curious and not unpleasing effect. The left hand was to be placed over the mouth, which was to be kept shut; he was on no account to speak; and for that day he was not to eat.

The bone that had been claimed to be taken from the stomach of the native the night before was now produced. This bone was sharpened at one end and used to lance the gum, and without such a precaution, it would have been impossible to extract the tooth without breaking the jawbone. A throwing-stick was then to be cut about eight or ten inches from the end, and this was done with much ceremony. The stick was laid on a tree, and three attempts were made before it was finally struck. Since the wood was very hard and the tool was a poor tomahawk, it took several blows to cut through it, with three feints made before each strike. When the gum was properly prepared, the operation began; the smallest end of the stick was placed as high up on the tooth as the gum would allow, while the operator stood ready with a large stone, seemingly to push the tooth down the patient’s throat. Their focus on the number three was again evident; no actual blow was delivered until the operator had three times attempted to hit the throwing-stick. They spent a full ten minutes on this first operation, and unfortunately for the boy, the tooth was very firmly embedded in the gum. Finally, it was forced out, and the boy was carried a little distance away, where his friends closed up the gum for him. They dressed him in the style he would wear for the next few days. A girdle was tied around his waist with a wooden sword tucked in, and a band was wrapped around his head adorned with strips of the white grass-gum tree, creating a striking and pleasing effect. His left hand was placed over his mouth, which he was to keep closed; he was not supposed to speak at all; and for that day, he was not to eat.

In like manner were all the others treated, except one, a pretty boy about eight or nine years of age, who, after suffering his gum to be lanced, could not endure the pain of more than one blow with the stone, and breaking from them made his escape.

In the same way, all the others were treated, except for one, a good-looking boy around eight or nine years old, who, after having his gum cut, couldn't handle the pain of more than one hit with the stone and broke free, managing to escape.

During the whole of the operation the assistants made the most hideous noise in the ears of the patients*, sufficient to distract their attention, and to drown any cries they could possibly have uttered; but they made it a point of honour to bear the pain without a murmur.

During the entire procedure, the assistants made a horrific noise that overwhelmed the patients*, distracting them and drowning out any cries they might have uttered; however, they took pride in enduring the pain without a sound.

[* Crying e-wah e-wah, ga-ga ga-ga, repeatedly.]

[* Crying e-wah e-wah, ga-ga ga-ga, over and over.]

Some other peculiarities, however, were observed. The blood that issued from the lacerated gum was not wiped away, but suffered to run down the breast, and fall upon the head of the man on whose shoulders the patient sat, and whose name was added to his. I saw them several days afterwards, with the blood dried upon the breast. They were also termed Ke-bar-ra, a name which has reference in its construction to the singular instrument used on this occasion, Ke-bah in their language signifying a rock or stone. I heard them several months after address each other by this significant name.

Some other strange things were noticed, though. The blood that flowed from the torn gum wasn’t cleaned up; it was allowed to run down the chest and drip onto the head of the man the patient was sitting on, whose name was mentioned. I saw them several days later with the blood dried on the chest. They were also called Ke-bar-ra, a name that relates to the unique tool used in this situation, as Ke-bah in their language means a rock or stone. I heard them refer to each other by this noteworthy name several months later.

No. 8 This Plate represents the young men arranged and sitting upon the trunk of a tree, as they appeared in the evening after the operation was over. The man is Cole-be, who is applying a broiled fish to his relation Nan-bar-ray's gum, which had suffered from the stroke more than any of the others.

No. 8 This Plate shows the young men sitting on the trunk of a tree, just as they looked in the evening after the operation was finished. The man is Cole-be, who is putting a grilled fish on his relative Nan-bar-ray's gum, which was hurt worse than anyone else's.

Yoo-long Erah-ba-diang, No. 8.

Suddenly, on a signal being given, they all started up, and rushed into the town, driving before them men, women, and children, who were glad to get out of their way. They were now received into the class of men; were privileged to wield the spear and the club, and to oppose their persons in combat. They might now also seize such females as they chose for wives.

Suddenly, at a given signal, they all jumped up and rushed into the town, pushing ahead men, women, and children who were happy to get out of their way. They were now accepted among the men; they had the right to use the spear and the club and to fight in battle. They could also take any women they wanted as wives.

All this, however, must be understood to import, that by having submitted to the operation, having endured the pain of it without a murmur, and having lost a front tooth, they received a qualification which they were to exercise whenever their years and their strength should be equal to it.

All of this, however, must be understood to mean that by undergoing the procedure, enduring the pain without complaint, and losing a front tooth, they gained a qualification that they were to use whenever their age and strength permitted.

Bennillong's sister, and Da-ring-ha, Cole-be's wife, hearing me express a great desire to be possessed of some of these teeth, procured three of them for me, one of which was that of Nan-bar-ray, Cole-be's relation.

Bennillong's sister and Da-ring-ha, Cole-be's wife, overheard me express a strong desire to have some of these teeth, so they got three of them for me, one of which belonged to Nan-bar-ray, who was related to Cole-be.

I found that they had fastened them to pieces of small line, and were wearing them round their necks. They were given to me with much secrecy and great dread of being observed, and with an injunction that I should never let it be known that they had made me such a present, as the Cam-mer-ray tribe, to whom they were to be given, would not fail to punish them for it; and they added that they should tell them the teeth were lost. Nan-bar-ray's tooth Da-ring-ha wished me to give to Mr. White, the principal surgeon of the settlement, with whom the boy had lived from his being brought into it, in the year 1789, to Mr. White's departure; thus with gratitude remembering, after the lapse of some years, the attention which that gentleman had shown to her relative.

I discovered that they had tied them to small pieces of string and were wearing them around their necks. They were given to me in secret and with a lot of fear about being seen, with a request that I should never let anyone know they had given me such a gift, as the Cam-mer-ray tribe, to whom they were intended, would definitely punish them for it; and they added that they would say the teeth were lost. Nan-bar-ray's tooth Da-ring-ha wanted me to give it to Mr. White, the main surgeon of the settlement, who had taken care of the boy since he arrived in 1789, up until Mr. White left; thus, remembering with gratitude, even after several years, the kindness that gentleman had shown to her family member.

Having remained with them while the operation was performed on three or four of the boys, I went into town, and returned after sun-set, when I found the whole equipped and seated on the trunk of the tree, as described in the Plate. It was then that I received the three teeth, and was conjured by the women to leave the place, as they did not know what might ensue. In fact, I observed the natives arming themselves; much confusion and hurry was visible among them; the savage appeared to be predominating; perhaps the blood they had drawn, and which was still wet on the heads and breasts of many of them, began to make them fierce; and, when I was on the point of retiring, the signal was given, which animated the boys to the first exercise of the spirit which the business of the day had infused into them, (for I have no doubt that their young bosoms were warmed by the different ceremonies which they had witnessed, of which they had indeed been something more than mere spectators, and which they knew had been exhibited wholly on their account,) and they rushed into the town in the manner before described, every where as they passed along setting the grass on fire.

Having stayed with them while the operation was done on three or four of the boys, I went into town and returned after sunset. I found everyone ready and seated on the tree trunk, as shown in the Plate. It was then that I received the three teeth, and the women urged me to leave because they were unsure of what might happen next. I noticed the natives arming themselves; there was a lot of confusion and urgency among them. The savagery seemed to be taking over; perhaps the blood they had spilled, still fresh on the heads and chests of many, was making them aggressive. Just as I was about to leave, the signal was given, which fired up the boys for the first display of the spirit fueled by the day’s events. I have no doubt that their young hearts were stirred by the various ceremonies they had witnessed, which they had indeed participated in beyond just being spectators, and they charged into the town as described before, setting fire to the grass as they went.

On showing the teeth to our medical gentleman there, and to others since my return to England, they all declared that they could not have been better extracted, had the proper instrument been used, instead of the stone and piece of wood.

After showing my teeth to the doctor there and to others since I've come back to England, they all said that they couldn't have been extracted any better, even if the right tools had been used instead of a stone and a piece of wood.

On a view of all these circumstances, I certainly should not consider this ceremony in any other light than as a tribute, were I not obliged to hesitate, by observing that all the people of Cam-mer-ray, which were those who exacted the tooth, were themselves proofs that they had submitted to the operation. I never saw one among them who had not lost the front tooth. I well recollect Bennillong, in the early period of our acquaintance with him and his language, telling us, as we then thought, that a man of the name of Cam-mer-ra-gal wore all the teeth about his neck. But we afterwards found that this term was only the distinguishing title of the tribe which performed the ceremonies incident to the operation. Bennillong at other times told us, that his own tooth was bour-bil-liey pe-mul, buried in the earth, and that others were thrown into the sea. It is certain, however, that my female friends, who gave me the teeth, were very anxious that the gift should not come to the knowledge of the men of Cam-mer-ray, and repeatedly said that they were intended for them.

Given all these circumstances, I really can’t think of this ceremony as anything other than a tribute, if I didn’t have to pause and notice that all the people from Cam-mer-ray, who were the ones demanding the tooth, were themselves proof that they had gone through the procedure. I never saw anyone among them who hadn’t lost a front tooth. I remember Bennillong, when we first got to know him and his language, telling us, as we believed at the time, that a man named Cam-mer-ra-gal wore all the teeth around his neck. But we later learned that this name was just the title for the tribe that carried out the ceremonies related to the procedure. Bennillong also mentioned at other times that his own tooth was bour-bil-liey pe-mul, buried in the ground, while others were thrown into the sea. However, it’s clear that my female friends, who gave me the teeth, were very worried that the men from Cam-mer-ray would find out about the gift, and they repeatedly said it was meant for them.

In alluding to this ceremony, whether by pointing to the vacancy occasioned by the lost tooth, or by adverting to any of the curious scenes exhibited on the occasion, the words Yoo-lahng erah-ba-diahng were always used; but to denote the loss of any other tooth the word bool-bag-ga was applied. The term Yoo-lahng erah-ba-diahng must therefore be considered as applying solely to this extraordinary occasion; it appears to be compounded of the name given to the spot where the principal scenes take place, and of the most material qualification that is derived from the whole ceremony, that of throwing the spear. I conceive this to be the import of the word erah-ba-diahng, erah being a part of the verb to throw, erah, throw you, erailley, throwing.

In referring to this ceremony, whether by highlighting the gap left by the lost tooth or by mentioning any of the unique scenes shown during the event, the terms Yoo-lahng erah-ba-diahng were always used; however, to refer to the loss of any other tooth, the term bool-bag-ga was used. Therefore, the term Yoo-lahng erah-ba-diahng should be seen as specifically relating to this special occasion; it seems to be made up of the name for the place where the main events occur and the key aspect derived from the entire ceremony, which is throwing the spear. I believe this is the meaning of the term erah-ba-diahng, with erah being part of the verb to throw, erah, throw you, erailley, throwing.

Being thus entered on 'the valued file,' they quickly assume the consequence due to the distinction, and as soon as possible bring their faculties into action. The procuring of food really seems to be but a secondary business with them; the management of the spear and the shield, dexterity in throwing the various clubs they have in use among them, agility in either attacking or defending, and a display of the constancy with which they endure pain, appearing to rank first among their concerns in life. The females too are accustomed to bear on their heads the traces of the superiority of the males, with which they dignify them almost as soon as they find strength in the arm to imprint the mark. We have seen some of these unfortunate beings with more scars upon their shorn heads, cut in every direction, than could be well distinguished or counted. The condition of these women is so wretched, that I have often, on seeing a female child borne on its mother's shoulders, anticipated the miseries to which it was born, and thought it would be a mercy to destroy it. Notwithstanding, however, that they are the mere slaves of the men, I have generally found, in tracing the causes of their quarrels, that the women were at the head of them, though in some cases remotely. They mingled in all the contests of the men; and one of these, that was in the beginning attended with some ceremony, was opened by a woman:

Being entered in the "valued file," they quickly take on the importance that comes with that distinction and soon get their skills into action. Getting food really seems like a secondary task for them; managing their spear and shield, being skilled in throwing the various clubs they use, being quick in attack or defense, and showing the determination with which they endure pain seem to be their top priorities. The women also carry on their heads the signs of the men's dominance, which they mark almost as soon as they are strong enough to do so. We've seen some of these unfortunate women with so many scars on their shaved heads, cut in every direction, that they’re hard to count or even recognize. The situation of these women is so miserable that I've often, upon seeing a little girl on her mother's shoulders, imagined the suffering she would face and thought it might be kinder to end her life. However, despite being the absolute slaves of the men, I've generally found that when looking into the causes of their fights, the women were often the instigators, even if indirectly. They got involved in all the men's conflicts; one such conflict, initially marked with a bit of ceremony, was even started by a woman:

We had been told for some days of their making great preparations for a fight, and gladly heard that they had chosen a clear spot near the town for the purpose. The contending parties consisted of most of our Sydney acquaintance, and some natives from the south shore of Botany Bay, among whom was Gome-boak, already mentioned in Chapter XXVIII ["About the latter end of the month . . ."]. We repaired to the spot an hour before sun-set, and found them seated opposite each other on a level piece of ground between two hills. As a prelude to the business, we observed our friends, after having waited some time, stand up, and each man stooping down, take water in the hollow of his hand (the place just before them being wet) which he drank. An elderly woman with a cloak on her shoulders (made of opossum skins very neatly sewn together) and provided with a club, then advanced from the opposite side, and, uttering much abusive language at the time, ran up to Cole-be, who was on the right, and gave him what I should have considered a severe blow on the head, which with seeming contempt he held out to her for the purpose. She went through the same ceremony with the rest, who made no resistance, until she came up to Ye-ra-ni-be, a very fine boy, who stood on the left. He, not admiring the blows that his companions received, which were followed by blood, struggled with her, and had he not been very active, I believe she would have stabbed him with his own spear, which she wrested from him. The men now advanced, and gave us many opportunities of witnessing the strength and dexterity with which they threw their spears, and the quickness of sight which was requisite to guard against them. The contest lasted until dark, when throwing the spear could no longer be accounted fair, and they beat each other with clubs, until they left off by mutual consent. In this part of the contest many severe wounds were given, and much blood was drawn from the heads of each party; but nothing material happened while they had light enough to guard against the spear.

We had been hearing for a few days about their big preparations for a fight, and we were glad to learn that they had picked a clear area near the town for it. The fighting groups included most of our friends from Sydney and some locals from the south shore of Botany Bay, including Gome-boak, who was mentioned earlier in Chapter XXVIII ["About the latter end of the month..."]. We arrived at the site an hour before sunset and found them sitting across from each other on a flat piece of ground between two hills. As a prelude to the fight, we noticed our friends, after waiting for a while, standing up, and each man bending down to scoop water in the hollow of his hand (since the ground in front of them was wet) and drinking it. An older woman wearing a cloak made of neatly sewn opossum skins and carrying a club then approached from the opposite side, yelling a lot of insults, and ran up to Cole-be, who was on the right, and struck him on the head. He, seemingly unfazed, offered his head for her to hit. She repeated this with the others, who didn’t resist, until she reached Ye-ra-ni-be, a very impressive boy on the left. Not liking the hits his friends were taking, which caused bleeding, he struggled with her, and if he hadn’t been very quick, I believe she would have stabbed him with his own spear, which she managed to take from him. The men then moved forward, giving us plenty of chances to see how powerfully and skillfully they threw their spears, and the quick reflexes needed to defend against them. The fight continued until it got dark, when throwing spears became unfair, and they resorted to beating each other with clubs until they agreed to stop. During this phase of the fight, many serious wounds were inflicted, and a good amount of blood was shed from the heads of both groups; however, nothing significant happened while there was enough light to defend against the spears.

In the exercise of this weapon they are very expert. I have seen them strike with certainty at the distance of seventy measured yards. They are thrown with great force, and where they are barbed are very formidable instruments. The wo-mer-ra, or throwing-stick, is always made use of on such occasions. This is a stick about three feet long, with a hook at one end (and a shell at the other, secured by gum), to receive which there is a small hole at the head of the spear. Both are held in the right hand. the fingers of which are placed, two above the throwing-stick, and two between it and the spear, at about the distance of two feet from the hook. After poising it for some time, and measuring with the eye the distance from the object to be thrown at, the spear is discharged, the throwing-stick remaining in the hand. Of these instruments there are two kinds; the one, named Wo-mer-ra, is armed with the shell of a clam, which they term Kah-dien, and which they use for the same purposes that we employ a knife. The other, which they name Wig-goon, has a hook, but no shell, and is rounded at the end. With this they dig the fern-root and yam out of the earth, and it is formed of heavy wood, while the wo-mer-ra is only part of a wattle split. They have several varieties of spears, every difference in them being distinguished by a name. Some are only pointed; others have one or more barbs, either shaped from the solid piece of wood of which the spear is made, or fastened on with gum; and some are armed with pieces of broken oyster-shell for four or five inches from the point, and secured by gum. All these barbed spears are dangerous, from the difficulty of extracting them. Of shields they have but two sorts. One, named E-lee-mong, is cut from the bark of the gum tree, and is not so capable of resisting the spear as the Ar-rah-gong, which is formed of solid wood, and hardened by fire. This shield is not so much in use as the e-lee-mong, as I imagine from its greater weight, and perhaps also from the superior difficulty they meet with in procuring it. Of clubs they use several sorts, some of which are of very large dimensions. They have one, the head of which is flat, with a sharp point in the centre. The flat part is painted with red and white stripes from the centre, and does not look unlike what they term it, Gnal-lung-ul-la, the name given by them to a mushroom. They have yet another instrument, which they call Ta-war-rang. It is about three feet long, is narrow, but has three sides, in one of which is the handle, hollowed by fire. The other sides are rudely carved with curved and waved lines, and it is made use of in dancing, being struck upon for this purpose with a club. An instrument very common among them must not be omitted in this account of their weapons of hostility, for such, I fear, some of our miserable straggling convicts have found it to their cost, though it generally is applied to more peaceful purposes. This is the Mo-go*, or stone-hatchet. The stone is found in the shallows at the upper part of the Hawkesbury, and a handle being fixed round the head of it with gum, the under part is brought by friction to an edge fine enough to divide the bark of such trees as they take their canoes or hunters huts from, and even the shields which are cut from the body of the tree itself. There is no doubt of their readily applying this as a weapon, when no other offers to their necessities.

In using this weapon, they are very skilled. I've watched them hit targets accurately from seventy measured yards away. They are thrown with a lot of force, and where they have barbs, they are quite dangerous. The wo-mer-ra, or throwing stick, is always used for this purpose. This stick is about three feet long, with a hook at one end (and a shell on the other, secured with gum), designed to fit a small hole at the spear's head. Both are held in the right hand, with two fingers above the throwing stick and two between it and the spear, about two feet away from the hook. After balancing it for a moment and judging the distance to the target, the spear is thrown, while the throwing stick stays in hand. There are two types of these tools; one, called Wo-mer-ra, is fitted with a clam shell they refer to as Kah-dien, used for similar tasks as a knife. The other, called Wig-goon, has a hook but no shell, and it’s rounded at the end. They use this to dig out fern roots and yams from the ground, and it’s made of heavy wood, while the wo-mer-ra is simply a split piece of wattle. They have various types of spears, each with a unique name. Some are simply pointed; others have one or more barbs, either shaped from the wood or attached with gum; some are armed with pieces of broken oyster shell a few inches from the tip, secured with gum. All these barbed spears are dangerous due to the difficulty in removing them. They have only two types of shields. One, called E-lee-mong, is made from the bark of the gum tree and isn't as effective against spears as the Ar-rah-gong, which is made of solid wood and hardened by fire. This last shield isn't used as much as the e-lee-mong, probably due to its heavier weight and the greater challenge of obtaining it. They have several types of clubs, some quite large. One has a flat head with a sharp point in the center, and the flat part is decorated with red and white stripes radiating from the center, resembling what they call Gnal-lung-ul-la, their term for a mushroom. Another tool they have is called Ta-war-rang. It's about three feet long, narrow, and has three sides, one of which has a handle hollowed out by fire. The other sides are crudely carved with curved and wavy lines, and it's used in dancing, struck with a club for this purpose. An important instrument that shouldn't be overlooked in this discussion of their weapons is the Mo-go*, or stone hatchet. The stone is found in the shallows at the top of the Hawkesbury, and a handle is secured around it with gum. The underside is sharpened through grinding to an edge fine enough to cut the bark of the trees from which they make their canoes or hunting huts, and even the shields cut from the trees themselves. They would definitely use this as a weapon when no other options are available.

[* A representation of this and other instruments is given in Plate 11.]

[* A description of this and other tools can be found in __A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__.]

It must be observed, that the principal tribes have their peculiar weapons. Most of us had made collections of their spears, throwing-sticks, etc. as opportunities occurred; and on showing them to our Sydney friends, they have told us that such a one was used by the people who lived to the southward of Botany Bay; that another belonged to the tribe of Cam-mer-ray. The spear of the wood tribes, Be-dia-gal, Tu-ga-gal, and Boo-roo-bir-rong-gal, were known from being armed with bits of stone, instead of broken oyster-shells. The lines worn round the waist by the men belonged to a peculiar tribe, and came into the hands of others either by gift or plunder. The nets used by the people of the coast for carrying their fish, lines, etc differed in the mesh from those used by the wood natives; and they extend this peculiarity even to their dances, their songs, and their dialect.

It should be noted that the main tribes have their own unique weapons. Most of us had collected their spears, throwing sticks, and so on whenever we could; and when we showed them to our friends in Sydney, they informed us that one belonged to the people who lived south of Botany Bay, and another was from the Cam-mer-ray tribe. The spears from the woodland tribes, Be-dia-gal, Tu-ga-gal, and Boo-roo-bir-rong-gal, were identifiable by their tips made of stone instead of broken oyster shells. The belts worn around the waists of the men were specific to a certain tribe and were acquired by others either as gifts or through theft. The nets used by the coastal people for carrying their fish and lines had different mesh sizes compared to those used by the woodland natives, and they even extend this uniqueness to their dances, songs, and dialects.

Among other customs which these people invariably practise, is one that is highly deserving of notice, as it carries with it some idea of retributive justice.

Among other customs that these people consistently practice, there is one that is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects some concept of retributive justice.

The shedding of blood is always followed by punishment, the party offending being compelled to expose his person to the spears of all who choose to throw at him; for in these punishments the ties of consanguinity or friendship are of no avail. On the death of a person, whether male or female, old or young, the friends of the deceased must be punished, as if the death were occasioned by their neglect. This is sometimes carried farther than there seems occasion for, or than can be reconcilable with humanity.

The shedding of blood always leads to punishment, with the offender forced to face the spears of anyone who wants to throw at them; in these punishments, relationships and friendships don’t matter. When someone dies, whether male or female, old or young, the friends of the deceased must be punished as if their death was due to their negligence. Sometimes, this goes further than seems necessary or humane.

After the murder of Yel-lo-way by Wat-te-wall his widow Noo-roo-ing being obliged, according to the custom of her country, to avenge her husband's death on some of the relations of the murderer, meeting with a little girl named Go-nang-goo-lie, who was some way related to Wat-te-wal, walked with her and two other girls to a retired place, where with a club and a pointed stone they beat her so cruelly, that she was brought into the town almost dead. In the head were six or seven deep incisions, and one ear was divided to the bone, which, from the nature of the instrument with which they beat her, was much injured. This poor child was in a very dangerous way, and died in a few days afterwards. The natives to whom this circumstance was mentioned expressed little or no concern at it, but seemed to think it right, necessary, and inevitable; and we understood that whenever women have occasion for this sanguinary revenge, they never exercise it but on their own sex, not daring to strike a male. Noo-roo-ing, perceiving that her treatment of Go-nang-goo-lie did not meet our approbation, denied having beaten her, and said it was the other girls; but such men as we conversed with on the subject assured us it was Noo-roo-ing, and added, that she had done no more than what custom obliged her to. The little victim of her revenge was, from her quiet tractable manners, much beloved in the town; and what is a singular trait of the inhumanity of this proceeding, she had every day since Yel-loway's death requested that Noo-roo-ing might be fed at the officer's hut, where she herself resided. Savage indeed must be the custom and the feelings which could arm the hand against this child's life! Her death was not avenged, perhaps because they considered it as an expiatory sacrifice.

After Yel-lo-way was killed by Wat-te-wall, his widow Noo-roo-ing had to follow her country's custom and seek revenge on a relative of the murderer. She met a little girl named Go-nang-goo-lie, who was somehow connected to Wat-te-wall, and took her and two other girls to a secluded spot. There, using a club and a sharp stone, they beat her so brutally that she was brought back to town nearly dead. She had six or seven deep cuts on her head, and one of her ears was torn to the bone, heavily injured due to the weapon they used. This poor child was in critical condition and died a few days later. The local people who heard about this expressed little or no concern; they believed it was right, necessary, and unavoidable. We learned that when women seek such bloody revenge, they only target other females, never daring to attack men. When Noo-roo-ing realized we disapproved of her treatment of Go-nang-goo-lie, she denied hitting her and claimed it was the other girls. However, the men we spoke with insisted it was Noo-roo-ing and added that she had done nothing more than what was required by custom. The little victim of her revenge was well-liked in town for her gentle and obedient nature. Interestingly, ever since Yel-lo-way's death, she had asked every day for Noo-roo-ing to be fed at the officer's hut, where she lived. It truly shows the cruel nature of this custom and the feelings involved that would allow someone to turn against this child! Her death was not avenged, possibly because they viewed it as a necessary sacrifice to atone for something.

Wat-te-wal, who committed the crime for which this little girl suffered so cruelly, escaped unhurt from the spears of Bennillong, Cole-be, and several other natives, and was afterwards received by them as usual, and actually lived with this very woman for some time, till he was killed in the night by Cole-be, as before related.

Wat-te-wal, who committed the crime that caused this little girl so much suffering, escaped unharmed from the spears of Bennillong, Cole-be, and several other locals, and was afterward treated just like before, actually living with this woman for a while until he was killed at night by Cole-be, as mentioned earlier.

This Wat-te-wal was in great union with Bennillong, who twice denied his having committed offences which he knew would forfeit our favour. In this last instance Bennillong betrayed more duplicity than we had given him credit for. On asking him with some earnestness if Wat-te-wal had killed Yel-loway, he assured us with much confidence that it was not Wat-te-wal who had killed him, but We-re-mur-rah. Little did we suspect that our friend had availed himself of a circumstance which he knew we were unacquainted with, that Wat-te-wal had more than one name. By giving us the second, he saved his friend, and knew that he could at all times boldly maintain that he had not concealed his name from us, We-re-murrah being as much his name as Wat-te-wal, though we had never known him by it. On apprising him some time afterwards, that we had discovered his artifice, and that it was a meanness we did not expect from him, he only laughed and went away.

This Wat-te-wal was closely connected with Bennillong, who denied multiple times that he had done anything wrong, knowing it would lose our favor. In this last situation, Bennillong showed more cunning than we had realized. When we seriously asked him if Wat-te-wal had killed Yel-loway, he confidently assured us that it wasn’t Wat-te-wal who had killed him, but We-re-mur-rah. We had no idea that our friend was taking advantage of something we weren't aware of: that Wat-te-wal had more than one name. By using the second name, he saved his friend, knowing he could always insist he hadn't hidden anything from us, since We-re-mur-rah was just as much his name as Wat-te-wal, even though we had never known him by it. When we later informed him that we had discovered his trickery and that we found it disappointing, he just laughed and walked away.

The violent death of Yel-lo-way we have seen followed by a cruel proceeding, which terminated in the death of the murderer's relation, Go-nang-goolie. I shall now show what followed where the person died a natural death.

The violent death of Yel-lo-way was followed by a cruel process that ended with the death of the murderer's relative, Go-nang-goolie. Now, I will show what happened next where the person died of natural causes.

Bone-da, a very fine youth, who lived at my house for several months, died of a cold, which, settling in his face, terminated in a mortification of his upper and lower jaws, and carried him off. We were told that some blood must be spilt on this occasion; but six weeks elapsed before we heard of any thing having happened in consequence of his decease. About that time having passed, however, we heard that a large party of natives belonging to different tribes, being assembled at Pan-ner-rong* (or, as it is named with us, Rose Bay), the spot which they had often chosen for shedding blood, after dancing and feasting over-night, early in the morning, Mo-roo-ber-ra, the brother, and Cole-be, another relation of Bone-da, seized upon a lad named Tar-ra-bil-long, and with a club each gave him a wound in his head, which laid the skull bare. Dar-ring-ha, the sister of Bone-da, had her share in the bloody rite, and pushed at the unoffending boy with a doo-ull or short spear. He was brought into the town and placed at the hospital, and, though the surgeon pronounced from the nature of his wounds that his recovery was rather doubtful, he was seen walking about the day following. On being spoke to about the business, he said he did not weep or cry out like a boy, but like a man cried Ki-yah when they struck him; that the persons who treated him in this unfriendly manner were no longer his enemies, but would eat or drink or sit with him as friends

Bone-da, a really great young man who stayed at my house for several months, died from a cold that settled in his face, leading to severe infection in his upper and lower jaws, which ultimately took his life. We were told that some blood needed to be shed because of his death, but it was six weeks before we heard of any actions taken afterward. However, around that time, we learned that a large group of natives from different tribes had gathered at Pan-ner-rong* (or as we call it, Rose Bay), a place they often chose for violence. After dancing and feasting the night before, early in the morning, Mo-roo-ber-ra, Bone-da's brother, and Cole-be, another relative, attacked a boy named Tar-ra-bil-long, each hitting him on the head with a club, leaving his skull exposed. Dar-ring-ha, Bone-da's sister, also participated in the violent act and jabbed the innocent boy with a doo-ull, a short spear. He was brought into town and taken to the hospital. Even though the surgeon said his recovery was quite uncertain based on his injuries, he was seen walking around the next day. When asked about the incident, he said he didn’t cry or scream like a kid but shouted “Ki-yah” like a man when they hit him; and that the people who hurt him were no longer his enemies but would eat, drink, or sit with him as friends.

[* Pan-ner-rong in the language of the country signifies Blood.]

[* Pan-ner-rong in the local language means Blood.]

Three or four days after this, Go-roo-bine, a grey-headed man, apparently upwards of sixty years of age, who was related to Bone-da, came in with a severe wound on the back part of his head, given him on account of the boy's decease; neither youth nor old age appearing to be exempted from those sanguinary customs.

Three or four days later, Go-roo-bine, a grey-haired man who seemed to be over sixty, and who was related to Bone-da, came in with a serious wound on the back of his head, inflicted because of the boy's death; it seemed that neither young nor old were safe from those violent customs.

When Ba-rang-a-roo, Bennillong's wife, died, several spears were thrown by the men at each other, by which many were wounded; and Bennillong had a severe contest with Wil-le-mer-ring, whom he wounded in the thigh. He had sent for him as a car-rah-dy to attend her when she was ill; but he either could not or would not obey the summons. Bennillong had chosen the time for celebrating these funeral games in honour of his deceased wife when a whale feast had assembled a large number of natives together, among whom were several people from the northward, who spoke a dialect very different to that with which we were acquainted.

When Ba-rang-a-roo, Bennillong's wife, died, the men threw several spears at each other, resulting in many injuries; Bennillong ended up in a fierce struggle with Wil-le-mer-ring, whom he wounded in the thigh. Bennillong had called for him as a car-rah-dy to be with her when she was sick; however, he either couldn't or didn't want to respond to the request. Bennillong chose to hold these funeral games in honor of his late wife during a whale feast that had gathered a large crowd of natives, including several people from the north who spoke a very different dialect than the one we were familiar with.

Some officers happening once to be present in the lower part of the harbour when a child died, perceived the men immediately retire, and throw their spears at one another with much apparent anger, while the females began their usual lamentations.

Some officers happened to be present in the lower part of the harbor when a child died. They noticed the men quickly retreat and throw their spears at each other with a lot of visible anger, while the women began their usual mourning.

When Dil-boong, Bennillong's infant child, died, several spears were thrown, and Bennillong, at the decease of her mother, said repeatedly, that he should not be satisfied until he had sacrificed some one to her manes.

When Dil-boong, Bennillong's infant child, passed away, several spears were thrown, and Bennillong, at the death of her mother, kept saying that he wouldn't be satisfied until he had sacrificed someone to her manes.

Ye-ra-ni-be Go-ru-ey having beaten a young woman, the wife of another man, and she having some time after exchanged a perilous and troublesome life for the repose and quiet of the grave, a contest ensued some days after, on account of her decease, between Bennillong and Go-ru-ey, and between the husband and Go-ru-ey, by both of whom he was wounded. Bennillong drove a spear into his knee, and the husband another into his left buttock. This wound he must have received by failing to catch the spear on his shield, and turning his body to let it pass beside him; other spears were thrown, but he alone appeared to be the victim of the day. Signifying a wish to have his wounds dressed by the surgeon, he was in the evening actually brought up to the hospital by the very man who had wounded him.

Ye-ra-ni-be Go-ru-ey had beaten a young woman, another man's wife, and after some time, she traded a dangerous and troubled life for the peace and quiet of the grave. A few days later, a fight broke out because of her death between Bennillong and Go-ru-ey, as well as between Go-ru-ey and her husband, both of whom wounded him. Bennillong drove a spear into Go-ru-ey's knee, while her husband stabbed him with another spear in his left buttock. He must have received this injury by failing to deflect the spear with his shield and instead turning his body to let it pass. Other spears were thrown, but he ended up being the only one injured that day. Indicating that he wanted his wounds treated by the surgeon, he was later taken to the hospital in the evening by the very man who had injured him.

The bay named Pan-ner-rong was the scene of this extraordinary transaction.

The bay called Pan-ner-rong was the site of this remarkable event.

Not a long time before I left the country, I witnessed another contest among them, which was attended with some degree of ceremony. The circumstance was this. A native of the Botany Bay district, named Collindiun, having taken off by force Go-roo-boo-roo-bal-lo, the former wife of Bennillong, but now the wife of Car-ru-ey, and carried her up the harbour, Car-ru-ey with his relation Cole-be, in revenge, stole upon this Collindiun one night while he lay asleep, and each fixed a spear in him. The wounds, though deep and severe, yet did not prove mortal, and on his recovery he demanded satisfaction. He came accompanied by a large party of natives from the south shore of Botany Bay, and rather reluctantly, for he had wished the business to be decided there, rather than among Car-ru-ey's friends, as many of his associates in arms were entire strangers to us. Thirsting after revenge, however, he was prevailed with to meet him on his own ground, and the Yoo-lahng formerly used for a different purpose was the place of rendezvous.

Not long before I left the country, I saw another contest among them that had a bit of ceremony. Here’s what happened. A guy from the Botany Bay area named Collindiun had forcefully taken Go-roo-boo-roo-bal-lo, the former wife of Bennillong, who was now married to Car-ru-ey. Car-ru-ey, along with his relative Cole-be, sought revenge by sneaking up on Collindiun one night while he was asleep and each stabbed him with a spear. The wounds were deep and serious but not fatal, and after he recovered, he wanted revenge. He showed up with a large group of natives from the south shore of Botany Bay, somewhat reluctantly, because he had preferred to settle things there instead of among Car-ru-ey's friends, since many of his allies were complete strangers to us. But driven by his desire for revenge, he agreed to meet Car-ru-ey on his own turf, and the Yoo-lahng, which had been used for a different purpose before, was chosen as the meeting place.

At night they all danced, that is to say, both parties, but not mixed together; one side waiting until the other had concluded their dance. In the manner of dancing, of announcing themselves as ready to begin, and also in their song, there was an evident difference.

At night, they all danced, meaning both groups, but they didn’t mix; one side waited until the other finished their dance. In the way they danced, how they signaled they were ready to start, and also in their songs, there was a clear difference.

Our friends appeared to have some apprehension of the event not proving favourable to them; for perceiving an officer there with a gun, Car-ru-ey strenuously urged him, if any thing should happen to him, to shoot the Botany Bay black fellows. The women, to induce us to comply with his request, told us that some of the opposite party had said they would kill Car-ru-ey. Some other guns making their appearance, the strangers were alarmed and uneasy, until assured that they were intended merely for our own security.

Our friends seemed a bit worried that the event might not turn out well for them; noticing an officer there with a gun, Car-ru-ey strongly urged him to shoot the Botany Bay black fellows if anything happened to him. The women, trying to persuade us to agree with his request, mentioned that some people from the opposing side had said they would kill Car-ru-ey. When more guns showed up, the strangers became anxious and uneasy until we assured them that those weapons were just for our own protection.

The time for this business was just after ten in the forenoon. We found Car-ru-ey and Cole-be seated at one end of the Yoo-lahng, each armed with a spear and throwing-stick, and provided with a shield. Here they were obliged to sit until some one of their opponents got up; they also then arose and put themselves en garde. Some of the spears which were thrown at them they picked up and threw back; and others they returned with extraordinary violence.

The time for this business was just after ten in the morning. We found Car-ru-ey and Cole-be sitting at one end of the Yoo-lahng, each equipped with a spear and throwing stick, and carrying a shield. They had to stay seated until one of their opponents stood up; then they also stood up and got into position. Some of the spears thrown at them were picked up and thrown back; others they returned with incredible force.

The affair was over before two o'clock; and, what was remarkable, we did not hear of any person being wounded. We understood, however, that this circumstance was to produce another meeting.

The event wrapped up before two o'clock, and surprisingly, we didn't hear of anyone getting hurt. We did understand, though, that this situation would lead to another gathering.

In this as in all the contests I ever witnessed among them, the point of honour was rigidly observed. But spears were not the only instruments of warfare on these occasions. They had also to combat with words, in which the women sometimes bore a part. During this latter engagement I have seen them, when any very offensive word met their ears, suddenly place themselves in the attitude of throwing the spear, and at times let it drop on the ground without discharging; and others threw it with all their strength; but always scrupulously observing the situation of the person opposed, and never throwing at him until he covered himself with his shield. The most unaccountable trait in this business was, the party thrown at providing his enemy with weapons; for they have been repeatedly seen, when a spear has flown harmless beyond them, to pick it up and fling it carelessly back to their adversary. This might proceed from contempt, or from there being a scarcity of spears; and I have thought that when, instead of flinging it carelessly back, they have thrown it with much violence, it was because it had been thrown at them with a greater visible degree of malevolence than the others.

In this, as in all the contests I've ever seen among them, the point of honor was strictly upheld. But spears weren't the only weapons used during these events. They also had to fight with words, in which the women sometimes participated. During these verbal battles, I’ve noticed that when an especially offensive word reached their ears, they would suddenly take the stance of throwing a spear, and sometimes they would just drop it on the ground without throwing it; other times they would throw it with all their strength. But they always made sure to consider the situation of their opponent, never throwing at him until he was shielded. The strangest part of all this was that the person being targeted would provide their enemy with weapons; they have often been seen picking up a spear that had flown harmlessly past them and carelessly tossing it back to their opponent. This might stem from contempt, or perhaps from a lack of spears; I’ve noticed that when they don’t just toss it back casually but throw it with force, it seems to be because it was thrown at them with a more noticeable intent to harm than the others.

This rigid attention to the point of honour, when fairly opposed to each other, is difficult to reconcile with their treacherous and midnight murders.

This strict focus on honor, when truly set against each other, is hard to reconcile with their deceitful and late-night murders.

Their mode of retaliating an insult or injury was extraordinary. Children, if when at play they received a blow or a push, resented it by a blow or a push of equal force to that which they felt. This retaliating spirit appeared also among the men, of a remarkable instance of which several of us were witnesses. A native of the name of Bur-ro-wan-nie had some time before been beaten by two natives of the tribe of Gwe-a, at the head of Botany Bay. One of these being fixed on, he was in return to be beaten by Bur-ro-wan-nie. For this purpose a large party attended over-night at the head of the stream near the settlement to dance; at which exercise they continued from nine till past twelve o'clock. The man who was to be beaten danced with the rest until they ceased, and then laid himself down among them to sleep. Early in the morning, while he was yet on the ground, and apparently asleep at the foot of a tree, Cole-be and Bur-ro-wan-me, armed each with a spear and a club, rushed upon him from among some trees. Cole-be made a push at him with his spear, but did not touch him, while the other, Bur-ro-wan-me, struck him with his club two severe blows on the hinder part of the head. The noise they made, if he was alseep, awaked him; and when he was struck, he was on his legs. He was perfectly unarmed, and hung his head in silence while Cole-be and his companion talked to him. No more blows were given, and Bennillong, who was present, wiped the blood from the wounds with some grass. As a proof that Bur-ro-wan-nie was satisfied with the redress he had taken, we saw him afterwards walking in the town with the object of his resentment, who, on being asked, said Bur-ro-ween-nie was good; and during the whole of the day, wheresoever he was seen, there also was this poor wretch with his breast and back covered with dried blood; for, according to the constant practice of his countrymen, he had not washed it off. In the evening I saw him with a ligature fastened very tight round his head, which certainly required something to alleviate the pain it must have endured.

Their way of getting back at someone for an insult or injury was quite something. Children, when playing, would react to a push or a hit by giving back a equal push or hit. This same retaliatory spirit was also seen in the men, as a notable instance showed us. A man named Bur-ro-wan-nie had previously been beaten by two members of the Gwe-a tribe, near Botany Bay. After identifying one of them, Bur-ro-wan-nie was set to take his revenge. For this, a large group gathered the night before at the top of the stream near the settlement to dance, continuing from nine until after midnight. The man who was supposed to be beaten danced along with them until they finished and then laid down to sleep among them. Early the next morning, while he was still lying at the foot of a tree and seemingly asleep, Cole-be and Bur-ro-wan-me, each armed with a spear and a club, suddenly attacked him from among the trees. Cole-be aimed his spear at him but missed, while Bur-ro-wan-me hit him hard on the back of the head with his club twice. The noise might have woken him if he was asleep, and when he was struck, he was already on his feet. He was completely unarmed and kept his head down in silence as Cole-be and his companion spoke to him. No additional blows were dealt, and Bennillong, who witnessed the event, wiped the blood from his wounds with some grass. To show that Bur-ro-wan-nie was satisfied with the revenge he had taken, we later saw him walking around the town with the man he resented, who, when asked, said Bur-ro-wan-nie was good. Throughout that day, wherever he went, this poor guy was seen with his chest and back stained with dried blood because, as per the common practice of his people, he hadn’t washed it off. In the evening, I saw him with a tight bandage wrapped around his head, which clearly needed something to ease the pain it must have caused.

In some of these contests they have been seen on the field of battle attended by a person who appeared to be the friend of both parties. In a single combat which Mo-roo-ber-ra had with Bennillong, they were attended by Cole-be, who took a position on one side about half-way between them, armed with a spear and throwing-stick, but unprovided with a shield. This I saw he frequently shook, and talked a great deal, but never threw it. While in this situation he was styled Ca-bah-my.

In some of these contests, they were seen on the battlefield accompanied by someone who seemed to be a friend to both sides. During a single combat between Mo-roo-ber-ra and Bennillong, they were joined by Cole-be, who stood about halfway between them, armed with a spear and throwing-stick but without a shield. I observed that he often shook his weapon and talked a lot, but he never threw it. In this role, he was referred to as Ca-bah-my.

I had long wished to be a witness of a family party, in which I hoped and expected to see them divested of that restraint which perhaps they might put on in our houses. I was one day gratified in this wish when I little expected it. Having strolled down to the Point named Too-bow-gu-lie, I saw the sister and the young wife of Bennillong coming round the Point in the new canoe which the husband had cut in his last excursion to Parramatta. They had been out to procure fish, and were keeping time with their paddles, responsive to the words of a song, in which they joined with much good humour and harmony. They were almost immediately joined by Bennillong, who had his sister's child on his shoulders. The canoe was hauled on shore, and what fish they had caught the women brought up. I observed that the women seated themselves at some little distance from Bennillong, and then the group was thus disposed of--the husband was seated on a rock, preparing to dress and eat the fish he had just received. On the same rock lay his pretty sister War-re-weer asleep in the sun, with a new born infant in her arms; and at some little distance were seated, rather below him, his other sister and his wife, the wife opening and eating some rock-oysters, and the sister suckling her child, Kah-dier-rang, whom she had taken from Bennillong. I cannot omit mentioning the unaffected simplicity of the wife: immediately on her stepping out of her canoe, she gave way to the pressure of a certain necessity, without betraying any of that reserve which would have led another at least behind the adjoining bush. She blushed not, for the cheek of Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo was the cheek of rude nature, and not made for blushes. I remained with them till the whole party fell asleep.

I had long wanted to witness a family gathering, hoping to see them let loose from the formality they might feel in our homes. One day, I got to fulfill this wish when I least expected it. After strolling down to the spot called Too-bow-gu-lie, I saw Bennillong's sister and young wife coming around the point in the new canoe that he had made on his last trip to Parramatta. They had been out fishing and were paddling in rhythm with a song, joining in happily and harmoniously. Bennillong soon joined them, carrying his sister's child on his shoulders. They pulled the canoe ashore, and the women brought up the fish they had caught. I noticed that the women sat a little distance away from Bennillong, arranging themselves like this: the husband was perched on a rock, getting ready to dress and eat the fish he just received. Lying on the same rock was his beautiful sister War-re-weer, asleep in the sun with a newborn baby in her arms; a bit farther down were his other sister and wife, with the wife opening and eating some rock oysters, and the sister nursing her child, Kah-dier-rang, whom she had taken from Bennillong. I must mention the genuine simplicity of the wife: as soon as she stepped out of her canoe, she attended to a natural need without any of the modesty someone else might have shown by retreating behind the nearest bush. She didn't blush; Go-roo-bar-roo-bool-lo's cheek was bare and unrefined, not made for blushing. I stayed with them until the whole group fell asleep.

They have great difficulty in procuring fire, and are therefore seldom seen without it. Bennillong, or some other native, once showed me the process of procuring it. It is attended with infinite labour, and is performed by fixing the pointed end of a cylindrical piece of wood into a hollow made in a plane: the operator twirling the round piece swiftly between both his hands, sliding them up and down until fatigued, at which time he is relieved by another of his companions, who are all seated for this purpose in a circle, and each one takes his turn until fire is procured.

They have a hard time getting fire, so they’re rarely seen without it. Bennillong or another local once demonstrated how to make it. The process is incredibly labor-intensive and involves placing the pointed end of a cylindrical piece of wood into a hollowed-out spot on a flat surface. The person doing it spins the round piece quickly between their hands, sliding them up and down until they get tired. Then, another person from their group, who are all sitting in a circle for this task, takes over, and they each take turns until they create fire.

Most of their instruments are ornamented with rude carved-work, effected with a piece of broken shell, and on the rocks I have seen various figures of fish, clubs, swords, animals, and even branches of trees, not contemptibly represented.

Most of their instruments are decorated with rough carvings made with a broken shell, and on the rocks, I've seen various images of fish, clubs, swords, animals, and even tree branches, all represented quite well.

APPENDIX VII--SUPERSTITION

Like all other children of ignorance, these people are the slaves of superstition.

Like all other children of ignorance, these people are slaves to superstition.

I think I may term the car-rah-dy their high priest of superstition. The share they had in the tooth-drawing scenes was not the only instance, that induced me to suppose this. When Cole-be accompanied Governor Phillip to the banks of the Hawkesbury, he met with a car-rah-dy, Yel-lo-mun-dy, who, with much gesticulation and mummery, pretended to extract the barbs of two spears from his side, which never had been left there, or, if they had, required rather the aid of the knife than the incantations of Yel-lo-mun-dy to extract them; but his patient was satisfied with the car-rah-dy's efforts to serve him, and thought himself perfectly relieved.

I think I can call the car-rah-dy their high priest of superstition. The part they played in the tooth-drawing scenes wasn't the only thing that led me to think this. When Cole-be went with Governor Phillip to the banks of the Hawkesbury, he encountered a car-rah-dy named Yel-lo-mun-dy, who, with a lot of gestures and nonsense, pretended to pull the barbs of two spears from his side, which had never actually been there, or if they had, would have needed a knife rather than the magic of Yel-lo-mun-dy to remove them; however, his patient felt satisfied with the car-rah-dy's attempts to help him and believed he was completely relieved.

During the time that Boo-roong lived at the clergyman's house she paid occasional visits to the lower part of the harbour. From one of these she returned extremely ill. On questioning her as to the cause, for none was apparent, she told us that the women of Cam-mer-ray had made water in a path which they knew she was to cross, and it had made her ill. These women were inimical to her, as she belonged to the Botany Bay district. On her intimating to them that she found herself ill, they told her triumphantly what they had done. Not recovering, though bled in the arm by Mr. White, she underwent an extraordinary and superstitious operation, where the operator suffers more than the patient. She was seated on the ground, with one of the lines worn by the men passed round her head once, taking care to fix the knot in the centre of her forehead; the remainder of the line was taken by another girl, who sat at a small distance from her, and with the end of it fretted her lips until they bled very copiously; Boo-roong imagining all the time that the blood came from her head, and passed along the line until it ran into the girl's mouth, whence it was spit into a small vessel which she had beside her, half filled with water, and into which she occasionally dipped the end of the line. This operation they term be-an-ny, and is the peculiar province of the women.

During the time Boo-roong lived at the clergyman's house, she occasionally visited the lower part of the harbor. After one of these visits, she returned extremely ill. When we asked her about the cause, since nothing seemed apparent, she explained that the women of Cam-mer-ray had urinated in a path that they knew she would cross, and that had made her sick. These women were hostile toward her because she was from the Botany Bay area. When she told them she felt unwell, they smugly revealed what they had done. Despite being bled in the arm by Mr. White, she didn’t recover and underwent a bizarre and superstitious procedure, where the operator suffered more than the patient. She sat on the ground with one of the lines worn by the men wrapped around her head once, making sure to tie the knot in the center of her forehead. A girl sitting a short distance away took the other end of the line and rubbed it against Boo-roong's lips until they bled heavily. Boo-roong believed all the while that the blood was coming from her head and traveling along the line into the girl's mouth, which she then spat into a small vessel beside her that was half-filled with water, into which she sometimes dipped the end of the line. This procedure is called be-an-ny, and it is a unique practice among women.

Another curious instance of their superstition occurred among some of our people belonging to a boat that was lying wind-bound in the lower part of the harbour. They had procured some shell-fish, and during the night were preparing to roast them, when they were observed by one of the natives, who shook his head and exclaimed, that the wind for which they were waiting would not rise if they roasted the fish. His argument not preventing the sailors from enjoying their treat, and the wind actually proving foul, they, in their turn, gave an instance of superstition by abusing the native, and attributing to him the foul wind which detained them. On questioning Ye-ra-ni-be respecting this circumstance, he assured me that the natives never broil fish by night.

Another interesting example of their superstition happened with some of our crew who were stuck on a boat in the lower part of the harbor due to the wind. They had caught some shellfish and were getting ready to roast them at night when one of the locals saw them and shook his head, saying that the wind they were waiting for wouldn't pick up if they cooked the fish. Even though he warned them, the sailors went ahead and enjoyed their meal, and since the wind ended up being bad, they blamed the local for the unfavorable wind that was holding them back. When I asked Ye-ra-ni-be about this situation, he told me that the locals never grill fish at night.

In a reach of the Hawkesbury, about midway up some high land, stands a rock which in its form is not unlike a sentry-box. Respecting this rock, they have a superstitious tradition, that while some natives were one day feasting under it, some of the company whistling, it happened to fall from a great height, and crushed the whole party under its weight. For this reason they make it an invariable rule never to whistle under a rock.

In a stretch of the Hawkesbury, about halfway up some high land, there’s a rock that looks somewhat like a guardhouse. According to local superstition, while some Indigenous people were having a feast under it one day, some of them started whistling, and the rock suddenly fell from a great height, crushing the entire group. Because of this, they have a strict rule never to whistle under a rock.

Among their other superstitions was one which might be naturally expected from their ignorance, a belief in spirits.

Among their other superstitions was one that could be naturally expected given their ignorance: a belief in spirits.

Of this belief we had at different times several accounts. Bennillong, during his first acquaintance with us, described an apparition as advancing to a person with an uncommon noise, and seizing hold of him by the throat. It came slowly along with its body bent, and the hands held together in a line with the face, moving on till it seized the party it meant to visit. We were told by him and others, and that after we understood each other, that by sleeping at the grave of a deceased person, they would, from what happened to them there, be freed from all future apprehensions respecting apparitions; for during that awful sleep the spirit of the deceased would visit them, seize them by the throat, and, opening them, take out their bowels, which they would replace and close up the wound. We understood that very few chose to encounter the darkness of the night, the solemnity of the grave, and the visitation of the spirit of the deceased; but that such as were so hardy became immediately car-rah-dys, and that all those who exercised that profession had gone through this ceremony.

Of this belief, we heard several accounts at different times. Bennillong, during his first interactions with us, described a ghost that approached a person with a strange noise and grabbed them by the throat. It moved slowly, with its body hunched and hands aligned with its face, advancing until it reached the person it intended to visit. He and others told us that after we understood each other, by sleeping at the grave of a deceased person, they would be free from any future fears about apparitions; during that intense sleep, the spirit of the deceased would come, grab them by the throat, and, opening them up, remove their insides, which they would then replace and close up. We learned that very few people chose to face the darkness of the night, the solemnity of the grave, and the visit from the spirit of the deceased; however, those who were brave enough immediately became car-rah-dys, and all those who practiced that profession underwent this ceremony.

It is very certain, that even in the day-time they were strangely unwilling to pass a grave; but I believe that their tale of being seized by the throat by a ghost was nothing more than their having felt the effects of what we term the night-mare during an uneasy sleep.

It’s pretty clear that even during the day, they were oddly hesitant to walk past a grave; however, I think their story about being grabbed by the throat by a ghost was just them experiencing what we call sleep paralysis during a restless night.

To the shooting of a star they attach a degree of importance; and I once, on an occasion of this kind, saw the girl Boo-roong greatly agitated, and prophesying much evil to befal all the white men and their habitations.

To a shooting star, they ascribe a significant meaning; and once, during such an event, I saw the girl Boo-roong extremely upset, predicting that terrible things would happen to all the white men and their homes.

Of thunder and lightning they are also much afraid; but have an ideal that by chanting some particular words, and breathing hard, they can dispel it. Instances of this have been seen.

They are also quite afraid of thunder and lightning; however, they believe that by chanting certain words and breathing heavily, they can make it go away. There have been cases of this happening.

APPENDIX VIII--DISEASES

Their living chiefly on fish (I speak of those whom we found on the sea coast) produces a disorder which greatly resembles the itch; they term it Djee-ball djee-ball; and at one time, about the year 1791, there was not one of the natives, man, woman, nor child, that came near us, but was covered with it. It raged violently among them, and some became very loathsome objects.

Their diet mainly consisting of fish (I’m talking about those we encountered along the coastline) leads to a condition that closely resembles the itch; they call it Djee-ball djee-ball. At one point, around the year 1791, every native—man, woman, or child—who approached us was covered in it. It spread rapidly among them, and some became quite unpleasant to look at.

The venereal disease also had got among them; but I fear our people have to answer for that; for though I believe none of our women had connection with then, yet there is no doubt but that several of the black women had not scrupled to connect themselves with the white men. Of the certainty of this an extraordinary instance occurred. A native woman had a child by one of our people. On its coming into the world she perceived a difference in its colour; for which not knowing how to account, she endeavoured to supply by art what she found deficient in nature, and actually held the poor babe, repeatedly, over the smoke of her fire, and rubbed its little body with ashes and dirt, to restore it to the hue with which her other children had been born. Her husband appeared as fond of it as if it had borne the undoubted sign of being his own, at least so far as complexion could ascertain to whom it belonged. Whether the mother had made use of any address on the occasion, I never learned.

The sexually transmitted disease had also spread among them, but I worry our community has to take responsibility for that. Although I believe none of our women were involved with them, it's clear that several of the Black women didn't hesitate to get involved with the white men. A striking example of this occurred when a native woman had a child with one of our people. When the baby was born, she noticed the difference in its skin color. Not knowing how to explain it, she tried to compensate for what she considered a deficiency in nature. She even held the poor baby over the smoke of her fire and rubbed its little body with ashes and dirt, hoping to change its color to match her other children. Her husband seemed just as attached to the baby as if it had clearly been his own, at least based on the skin color. I never found out if the mother had any particular strategy regarding this situation.

It was by no means ascertained whether the lues venerea had been among them before they knew us, or whether our people had to answer for having introduced that devouring plague. Thus far is certain, however, that they gave it a name, Goo-bah-rong; a circumstance that seems rather to imply a pre-knowledge of its dreadful effects.

It was not confirmed whether the venereal disease had already been among them before they encountered us, or whether our people were responsible for introducing that devastating plague. What is certain, however, is that they named it Goo-bah-rong, which suggests they had some prior knowledge of its terrible effects.

In the year 1789 they were visited by a disorder which raged among them with all the appearance and virulence of the small-pox. The number that it swept off, by their own accounts, was incredible. At that time a native was living with us; and on our taking him down to the harbour to look for his former companions, those who witnessed his expression and agony can never forget either. He looked anxiously around him in the different coves we visited; not a vestige on the sand was to be found of human foot; the excavations in the rocks were filled with the putrid bodies of those who had fallen victims to the disorder; not a living person was any where to be met with. It seemed as if, flying from the contagion, they had left the dead to bury the dead. He lifted up his hands and eyes in silent agony for some time; at last he exclaimed, 'All dead! all dead!' and then hung his head in mournful silence, which he preserved during the remainder of our excursion. Some days after he learned that the few of his companions who survived had fled up the harbour to avoid the pestilence that so dreadfully raged. His fate has been already mentioned. He fell a victim to his own humanity when Boo-roong, Nan-bar-ray, and others were brought into the town covered with the eruptions of the disorder. On visiting Broken Bay, we found that it had not confined its effects to Port Jackson, for in many places our path was covered with skeletons, and the same spectacles were to be met with in the hollows of most of the rocks of that harbour.

In 1789, they were hit by an illness that spread among them with all the signs and severity of smallpox. According to their accounts, the number of victims was staggering. At that time, a native was living with us; and when we brought him down to the harbor to search for his former companions, those who saw his face and suffering will never forget it. He anxiously looked around in the different coves we visited; not a trace of a human footprint was found on the sand; the crevices in the rocks were filled with the decaying bodies of those who had succumbed to the illness; there was not a single living person anywhere. It was as if, fleeing from the contagion, they had left the dead to bury the dead. He raised his hands and eyes in silent anguish for a while; finally, he exclaimed, 'All dead! all dead!' and then bowed his head in mournful silence, which he maintained for the rest of our trip. A few days later, he learned that the few companions who survived had fled up the harbor to escape the deadly plague. His fate has already been mentioned. He became a victim of his own kindness when Boo-roong, Nan-bar-ray, and others were brought into town covered in the rash of the disease. When we visited Broken Bay, we found that its impact wasn't limited to Port Jackson; in many places, our path was littered with skeletons, and similar sights could be seen in the hollows of most of the rocks in that harbor.

Notwithstanding the town of Sydney was at this time filled with children, many of whom visited the natives that were ill of this disorder, not one of them caught it, though a North-American Indian, a sailor belonging to Captain Ball's vessel, the Supply, sickened of it and died.

Despite the fact that the town of Sydney was bustling with children, many of whom visited the locals who were suffering from this illness, none of them got sick. However, a North American Indian, a sailor from Captain Ball's ship, the Supply, became ill with it and died.

To this disorder they also gave a name, Gal-gal-la; and that it was the small-pox there was scarcely a doubt; for the person seized with it was affected exactly as Europeans are who have that disorder; and on many that had recovered from it we saw the traces, in some the ravages of it on the face.

To this illness, they named it Gal-gal-la; and it was hardly a doubt that it was smallpox; the person affected had the same symptoms as Europeans do with that illness; and on many who had recovered, we observed the marks, and in some, the scarring on the face.

As a proof of the numbers of those miserable people who were carried off by this disorder, Bennillong told us, that his friend Cole-be's tribe being reduced by its effects to three persons, Cole-be, the boy Nan-bar-ray, and some one else, they found themselves compelled to unite with some other tribe, not only for their personal protection, but to prevent the extinction of their tribe. Whether this incorporation ever took place I cannot say; I only know that the natives themselves, when distinguishing between this man and another of the same name at Botany Bay, always styled him Cad-i Cole-be; Cad-i being the name of his district; and Cole-be, when he came into the field some time after, appeared to be attended by several very fine boys who kept close by his side, and were of his party.

As proof of how many unfortunate people were taken by this illness, Bennillong told us that his friend Cole-be's tribe was left with only three members: Cole-be, the boy Nan-bar-ray, and one other person. They felt they had no choice but to join another tribe, not just for their safety but to avoid the extinction of their own group. I can’t say whether this merger actually happened; all I know is that when the locals were referring to this man and another with the same name at Botany Bay, they always called him Cad-i Cole-be; Cad-i being the name of his area. When Cole-be eventually showed up in the field later, he seemed to be accompanied by several well-built boys who stayed close to him and were part of his group.

Whenever they feel a pain, they fasten a tight ligature round the part, thereby stopping the circulation, and easing the part immediately affected. I have before mentioned the quickness with which they recovered from wounds; but I have even known them get the better in a short time of a fractured skull. That their skulls should be fractured will be no wonder, when it is recollected that the club seems to be applied alone to the head. The women who are struck with this weapon always fall to the ground; but this seldom happens to the men though the blows are generally more severe.

Whenever they feel pain, they wrap a tight band around the area, stopping the blood flow and relieving the affected part immediately. I've mentioned before how quickly they recover from injuries; I've even seen them bounce back from a fractured skull in no time. It's not surprising their skulls get fractured, considering that the club is usually aimed at the head. The women struck by this weapon always fall to the ground; however, this rarely happens to the men, even though the blows are usually harsher.

APPENDIX IX--PROPERTY

Their spears and shields, their clubs and lines, etc are their own property; they are manufactured by themselves, and are the whole of their personal estate. But, strange as it may appear, they have also their real estates. Bennillong, both before he went to England and since his return, often assured me, that the island Me-mel (called by us Goat Island) close by Sydney Cove was his own property; that it was his father's, and that he should give it to By-gone, his particular friend and companion. To this little spot he appeared much attached; and we have often seen him and his wife Ba-rang-a-roo feasting and enjoying themselves on it. He told us of other people who possessed this kind of hereditary property, which they retained undisturbed.

Their spears and shields, clubs and fishing lines, etc. are all their own property; they make them themselves and they represent their entire personal belongings. But, as strange as it may seem, they also have real estate. Bennillong, both before he went to England and after his return, often told me that the island Me-mel (which we call Goat Island) near Sydney Cove was his property; that it belonged to his father, and that he planned to give it to By-gone, his close friend and companion. He seemed very attached to this little spot, and we've often seen him and his wife Ba-rang-a-roo enjoying meals and having a good time there. He mentioned other people who had this kind of hereditary property, which they kept undisturbed.

APPENDIX X--DISPOSITIONS

From the different circumstances that have been related of these people in the foregoing account, a general idea of their character and disposition may be gathered. They are revengeful, jealous, courageous, and cunning. I have never considered their stealing on each other in the night for the purposes of murder as a want of bravery, but have looked on it rather as the effect of the diabolical spirit of revenge, which thus sought to make surer of its object than it could have done if only opposed man to man in the field. Their conduct when thus opposed, the constancy with which they endured pain, and the alacrity with which they accepted a summons to the fight, are surely proofs of their not wanting courage. They disclaim all idea of any superiority that is not personal; and I remember when Bennillong had a shield, made of tin and covered with leather, presented to him by Governor Phillip, he took it with him down the harbour, whence he returned without it, telling us that he had lost it; but in fact it had been taken from him by the people of the north shore district and destroyed; it being deemed unfair to cover himself with such a guard.

From the various situations described about these people in the previous account, you can get a general idea of their character and mindset. They are vengeful, jealous, brave, and cunning. I’ve never seen their nighttime attacks on each other for murder as a lack of bravery; instead, I view it as a result of a wicked desire for revenge, which aimed to ensure success in a way that wouldn’t have been possible if they had faced each other openly in battle. Their behavior when confronted, the persistence with which they faced pain, and their eagerness to join a fight surely demonstrate that they are not lacking in courage. They reject any idea of superiority that isn’t personal; I remember when Bennillong received a shield made of tin and covered with leather from Governor Phillip, he took it with him down the harbor but returned without it, claiming he had lost it. In reality, it was taken from him by people from the north shore and destroyed, as it was seen as unfair for him to protect himself with such armor.

They might have been honest before we came among them, not having much to covet from one another; but from us they often stole such things as we would not give them. While they pilfered what could gratify their appetites, it was not to be wondered at; but I have seen them steal articles of which they could not possibly know the use. Mr. White once being in the midst of a crowd of natives in the lower part of the harbour, one of them saw a small case of instruments in his pocket, which, watching an opportunity, he slyly stole, and ran away with; but, being observed, he was pursued and made to restore his prize. We were very little acquainted with them at this time, and therefore the native could not have known the contents of the case. Could he have been watched to his retreat, I have no doubt but he would have been seen to lay the case on his head, as an ornament, the place to which at first every thing we gave them was usually consigned.

They might have been honest before we arrived, not having much to want from each other; but from us, they often stole things we wouldn’t offer them. While it wasn’t surprising that they took what satisfied their needs, I’ve seen them steal items they couldn’t possibly know how to use. Once, Mr. White was in a crowd of locals at the lower part of the harbor when one of them noticed a small case of instruments in his pocket. Seizing the chance, the person stealthily grabbed it and ran away, but after being noticed, he was chased down and forced to return it. At that time, we didn’t know them very well, so the local couldn’t have known what was inside the case. If someone had followed him, I’m sure they would have seen him place the case on his head as a decoration, the spot where everything we gave them was usually put at first.

That they are not strangers to the occasional practice of falsehood, is apparent from the words truth and falsehood being found in their language; but, independent of this, we had many proofs of their being adepts in the arts of evasion and lying; and I have seen them, when we have expressed doubts of some of their tales, assure us with much earnestness of the truth of their assertions; and when speaking to us of other natives they have as anxiously wished us to believe that they had told us lies.

That they're not unfamiliar with telling lies is clear from the presence of the words "truth" and "falsehood" in their language. However, beyond that, we had plenty of evidence that they were skilled in the arts of evasion and deception. I've seen them, when we questioned some of their stories, genuinely insist on the truth of what they were saying. And when they talked about other locals, they eagerly wanted us to believe that those people were lying to us.

Their talent for mimicry is very great. It was a favourite diversion with the children to imitate the peculiarities in any one's gait, and they would go through it with the happiest success.

Their talent for mimicry is impressive. The kids loved to imitate the unique ways people walked, and they did it with great success.

They are susceptible of friendship, and capable of feeling sorrow; but this latter sensation they are not in the habit of encouraging long. When Ba-loo-der-ry, a very fine lad who died among us, was buried, I saw the tears streaming silently down the sable cheek of his father Mau-go-ran; but in a little time they were dried, and the old man's countenance indicated nothing but the lapse of many years which had passed over his head.

They are open to friendship and can feel sadness, but they don’t usually dwell on it for long. When Ba-loo-der-ry, a wonderful young man who passed away among us, was buried, I saw the tears silently running down his father Mau-go-ran's dark cheek; but soon enough, they dried, and the old man's face showed only the many years that had gone by.

With attention and kind treatment, they certainly might be made a very serviceable people. I have seen them employed in a boat as usefully as any white person; and the settlers have found some among them, who would go out with their stock, and carefully bring home the right numbers, though they have not any knowledge of numeration beyond three or four.

With attention and kindness, they could definitely become very helpful people. I've seen them work on a boat as effectively as any white person, and the settlers have found some among them who would go out with their livestock and carefully bring home the right numbers, even though they don’t have any understanding of counting beyond three or four.

Their acquaintance with astronomy is limited to the names of the sun and moon, some few stars, the Magellanic clouds, and the milky way. Of the circular form of the earth they have not the smallest idea, but imagine that the sun returns over their heads during the night to the quarter whence he begins his course in the morning.

Their knowledge of astronomy is limited to the names of the sun and moon, a few stars, the Magellanic clouds, and the Milky Way. They have no concept of the earth being round; instead, they think that the sun moves back over their heads at night to the spot where it rises in the morning.

As they never make provision for the morrow, except at a whale-feast, they always eat as long as they have any thing left to eat, and when satisfied, stretch themselves out in the sun to sleep, where they remain until hunger or some other cause calls them again into action. I have at times observed a great degree of indolence in their dispositions, which I have frequently seen the men indulge at the expence of the weaker vessel the women, who have been forced to sit in their canoe, exposed to the fervour of the mid-day sun, hour after hour, chanting their little song, and inviting the fish beneath them to take their bait; for without a sufficient quantity to make a meal for their tyrants, who were lying asleep at their ease, they would meet but a rude reception on their landing.

As they never plan for tomorrow, except during a whale feast, they always eat as long as there’s food left. Once they're satisfied, they lay out in the sun to sleep, staying there until hunger or some other reason prompts them to get up again. I've noticed a lot of laziness in their behavior, especially among the men, who often indulge in it at the expense of the women. The women have to sit in their canoe, exposed to the harsh midday sun for hours, singing their little song to lure the fish below to their bait. If they can't catch enough for their lazy partners, who are lounging around sleeping, they can expect a rough reception when they return.

APPENDIX XI--FUNERAL CEREMONIES

The first peculiarity noticeable in their funeral ceremonies is the disposal of their dead; their young people they consign to the grave; those who have passed the middle age are burnt. Bennillong burnt the body of his first wife Ba-rang-a-roo, who, I suppose, was at the time of her decease turned fifty. I have attended them on both occasions. The interment of Ba-loo-der-ry was accompanied with many curious ceremonies. From being one day in apparent perfect health, he was brought in the next extremely ill, and attended by Bennillong, whom we found singing over him, and making use of those means which ignorance and superstition pointed out to him to recover his health. Ba-loo-der-ry lay extended on the ground, appearing to be in much pain. Bennillong applied his mouth to those parts of his patient's body which he thought were affected, breathing strongly on them, and singing: at times he waved over him some boughs dipped in water, holding one in each hand, and seemed to treat him with much attention and friendship. On the following morning he was visited by a car-rah-dy, who came express from the north shore. This man threw himself into various distortions, applied his mouth to different parts of his patient's body, and at length, after appearing to labour much, and to be in great pain, spit out a piece of a bone about an inch and a half long (which he had previously procured). Here the farce ended, and Ba-loo-der-ry's friends took the car-rah-dy with them and entertained him with such fare as they had to give him. He was at this time at our hospital; during the night his fever increased, and his friends, thinking he would be better with them, put him into a canoe, intending to take him to the north shore; but he died as they were carrying him over. This was immediately notified to us by a violent clamour among the women and children; and Bennillong soon after coming into the town, it was agreed upon between him and the governor that the body should be buried in the governor's garden.

The first noticeable feature of their funeral ceremonies is how they handle their dead; their young people are buried, while those who are middle-aged or older are cremated. Bennillong cremated the body of his first wife, Ba-rang-a-roo, who was about fifty when she died. I've been present for both types of ceremonies. The burial of Ba-loo-der-ry included many unusual rituals. After being perfectly healthy one day, he was brought in the next day extremely ill, attended by Bennillong, who we found singing over him and using the remedies suggested by ignorance and superstition to try to restore his health. Ba-loo-der-ry lay on the ground, clearly in pain. Bennillong pressed his mouth to the parts of Ba-loo-der-ry's body that he believed were affected, breathing hard on them while singing. At times, he waved some branches dipped in water over him, holding one in each hand, and treated him with a lot of care and kindness. The next morning, he was visited by a car-rah-dy who came all the way from the north shore. This man contorted himself, applied his mouth to various parts of Ba-loo-der-ry's body, and eventually, after appearing to struggle and be in great pain, spat out a piece of bone about an inch and a half long (which he had obtained earlier). This was the end of the performance, and Ba-loo-der-ry's friends took the car-rah-dy with them and offered him whatever food they could manage. At this time, Ba-loo-der-ry was in our hospital; during the night, his fever worsened, and his friends, thinking he would be better with them, placed him in a canoe to take him to the north shore; however, he died while they were transporting him. We were immediately alerted by the loud cries of the women and children, and when Bennillong came into town soon after, he and the governor agreed that the body should be buried in the governor's garden.

In the afternoon it was brought over in a canoe, and deposited in a hut at the bottom of the garden, several natives attending, and the women and children lamenting and howling most dismally. The body was wrapped up in the jacket which he usually wore, and some pieces of blanketting tied round it with bines. The men were all armed, and, without any provocation, two of them had a contest with clubs; at the same time a few blows passed between some of the women. Boo-roong had her head cut by Go-roo-ber-ra, the mother of the deceased. Spears were also thrown, but evidently as part of a ceremony, and not with an intention of doing injury to any one. At the request of Bennillong, a blanket was laid over the corpse, and Cole-be his friend sat by the body all night, nor could he be prevailed on to quit it.

In the afternoon, they brought it over in a canoe and placed it in a hut at the end of the garden, with several locals present, and the women and children crying out in deep mourning. The body was wrapped in the jacket he usually wore, with some pieces of blankets tied around it with vines. The men were all armed, and without any reason, two of them started a contest with clubs; at the same time, some blows were exchanged among the women. Boo-roong got her head cut by Go-roo-ber-ra, the deceased's mother. Spears were also thrown, but clearly as part of a ceremony, not meant to harm anyone. At Bennillong's request, a blanket was placed over the body, and his friend Cole-be stayed by the corpse all night, unwilling to leave it.

They remained rather silent till about one in the morning, when the women began to cry, and continued for some time. At daylight Bennillong brought his canoe to the place, and cutting it to a proper length, the body was placed in it, with a spear, a fiz-gig, a throwing-stick, and a line which Ba-loo-derry had worn round his waist. Some time was taken up in adjusting all this business, during which the men were silent, but the women, boys, and children uttered the most dismal lamentations. The father stood alone and unemployed, a silent observer of all that was doing about his deceased son, and a perfect picture of deep and unaffected sorrow. Every thing being ready, the men and boys all assisted in lifting the canoe with the body from the ground, and placing it on the heads of two natives, Collins and Yow-war-re. Some of the assistants had tufts of grass in their hands, which they waved backwards and forwards under the canoe, while it was lifting from the ground, as if they were exorcising some evil spirit. As soon as it was fixed on the heads of the bearers, they set off, preceded by Bennillong and another man, Wat-te-wal, both walking with a quick step towards the point of the cove where Bennillong's hut stood. Mau-go-ran, the father, attended them armed with his spear and throwing-stick, while Bennillong and Wat-te-wal had nothing in their hands but tufts of grass, which as they went they waved about, sometimes turning and facing the corpse, at others waving their tufts of grass among the bushes. When they fronted the corpse, the head of which was carried foremost, the bearers made a motion with their heads from side to side, as if endeavouring to avoid the people who fronted them. After proceeding thus to some little distance, Wat-te-wal turned aside from the path, and went up to a bush, into which he seemed to look very narrowly, as if searching for something that he could not find, and waving about the tufts of grass which he had in either hand. After this fruitless search, they all turned back, and went on in a somewhat quicker pace than before. On their drawing near the spot where the women and children were sitting with the other men, the father threw two spears towards, but (evidently intentionally) short of them. Here Bennillong took his infant child, Dil-boong in his arms, and held it up to the corpse, the bearers endeavouring to avoid it as before described. Be-dia Be-dia, the reputed brother of the deceased, a very fine boy of about five years of age, was then called for, but came forward very reluctantly, and was presented in the same manner as the other child. After this they proceeded to the grave which had been prepared in the governor's garden. Twice they changed the bearer who walked the foremost, but his friend Collins carried him the whole of the way. At the grave some delay took place, for unfortunately it was found not to be long enough; but after some time, it being completed according to their wishes, Yel-lo-way levelled the bottom with his hands and feet, and then strewed some grass in it, after which he stretched himself at his length in it, first on his back, and then on his right side. Bennillong had earnestly requested that some drums might be ordered to attend, which was granted, and two or three marches were beat while the grave was preparing; Bennillong highly approving, and pointing at the time first to the deceased and then to the skies, as if there was some connexion between them at that moment. When the grave was ready, the men to the number of five or six got in with the body, but being still somewhat too short, the ends of the canoe were cut, in doing which the bines were loosened and the corpse exposed to view. It appeared to be in a very putrid state. Every thing was however adjusted, and the grave was filled in by the natives and some of our people.

They stayed pretty quiet until around one in the morning when the women started crying and continued for a while. At dawn, Bennillong brought his canoe to the spot, cut it to the right length, and placed the body inside along with a spear, a fiz-gig, a throwing stick, and a line that Ba-loo-derry had worn around his waist. They spent some time arranging everything, during which the men were silent, but the women, boys, and children let out the saddest wails. The father stood alone, quietly watching everything happening around his deceased son, perfectly embodying deep and genuine sorrow. Once everything was ready, the men and boys helped lift the canoe with the body off the ground and placed it on the heads of two locals, Collins and Yow-war-re. Some of the helpers held tufts of grass in their hands, waving them back and forth under the canoe as it was lifted, as if warding off some evil spirit. Once it was balanced on the bearers' heads, they set off, led by Bennillong and another man, Wat-te-wal, both walking quickly toward the cove where Bennillong's hut was located. Mau-go-ran, the father, followed them, armed with his spear and throwing stick, while Bennillong and Wat-te-wal carried only tufts of grass, which they waved about as they walked, sometimes turning to face the body and at other times waving the grass among the bushes. When they faced the corpse, carried head-first, the bearers swayed their heads from side to side, as if trying to avoid the people in front of them. After proceeding a short distance, Wat-te-wal stepped off the path, moving toward a bush, peering into it as if searching for something he couldn’t find, still waving the grass tufts in each hand. After this unsuccessful search, they all turned back and continued at a quicker pace. As they approached the area where the women, children, and other men were sitting, the father threw two spears toward them, but intentionally fell short. Here, Bennillong picked up his infant child, Dil-boong, and held it up to the body, the bearers again trying to avoid it as before. Be-dia Be-dia, the supposed brother of the deceased, a handsome boy about five years old, was then called over, but he came forward hesitantly and was presented similarly to the other child. After this, they headed to the grave that had been prepared in the governor's garden. They changed the lead bearer twice, but Collins carried him the entire way. At the grave, they encountered some delay because it was unfortunately found to be too short. However, after a while, once it was made to their satisfaction, Yel-lo-way leveled the bottom with his hands and feet, then scattered some grass inside it before lying down in it first on his back and then on his right side. Bennillong had earnestly requested that some drums be provided, which was granted, and two or three marches were played while the grave was being prepared; Bennillong was very pleased, pointing first to the deceased and then to the sky, as if there was some connection between them at that moment. When the grave was finished, five or six men climbed in with the body, but since it was still a bit too short, they cut the ends of the canoe, which loosened the bindings and exposed the corpse. It was in a very decayed state. However, everything was arranged, and the grave was filled in by the locals and some of our people.

On laying the body in the grave, great care was taken so to place it, that the sun might look at it as he passed, Bennillong and Cole-be taking their observations for that purpose, and cutting down every shrub that could at all obstruct the view. He was placed on his right side with his head to the NW.

On laying the body in the grave, great care was taken to position it so the sun could see it as it passed by. Bennillong and Cole-be were observing for that purpose and cutting down any shrub that could obstruct the view. He was placed on his right side with his head facing northwest.

The native Yow-war-re appeared to have much to do in this ceremony. When the grave was covered in, and laid up round, he collected several branches of shrubs, and placed them in a half circle on the south side of the grave, extending them from the foot to the head of it. He also laid grass and boughs on the top of it, and crowned the whole with a large log of wood. This log appeared to be placed there for some particular purpose; for having fixed it he strewed some grass over it, and then laid himself on it at his length for some minutes, with his face towards the sky. Every rite being performed, the party retired, some of the men first speaking in a menacing tone to the women, and telling Boo-roong not to eat any fish nor meat that day. We understood that at night two of the men were to sleep at the grave, but I have reason to think that they did not. Cole-be and Wat-te-wal were painted red and white over the breast and shoulders, and on this occasion were distinguished by the title of Moo-by; and we learned from them that while so distinguished they were to be very sparing in their meals.

The native Yow-war-re seemed to have a significant role in this ceremony. Once the grave was filled in and surrounded, he gathered several branches from shrubs and arranged them in a half circle on the south side of the grave, stretching from the foot to the head. He also laid grass and boughs on top of it and topped everything with a large log. This log seemed to be placed there for a specific reason; after securing it, he sprinkled some grass over it and then lay down on it for a few minutes, facing the sky. After completing all the rituals, the group left, with some of the men warning the women in a threatening tone and instructing Boo-roong not to eat any fish or meat that day. We understood that two of the men were supposed to stay at the grave overnight, but I suspect they didn’t. Cole-be and Wat-te-wal were painted red and white on their chests and shoulders, and on this occasion, they were referred to as Moo-by; we learned from them that while in this role, they were expected to eat very little.

They enjoined us on no account to mention the name of the deceased, a custom they rigidly attended to themselves whenever any one died; and in pursuance of this custom, Nan-bar-ray, one of whose names was Ba-loo-der-ry, had actually relinquished that, and obtained another name.

They insisted that we should never mention the name of the deceased, a practice they strictly followed themselves whenever someone died; and following this tradition, Nan-bar-ray, who was also known as Ba-loo-der-ry, had actually given that up and adopted a new name.

The ceremony of sleeping at the grave of the deceased, we knew, was observed by Bennillong after the death of his little child Dil-boong, he and two or three other natives passing the night in the governor's garden, not very far from the spot where it was buried.

The tradition of sleeping at the grave of the deceased was practiced by Bennillong after his young child Dil-boong died. He and a couple of other locals stayed the night in the governor's garden, not far from where the child was buried.

Such were the ceremonies attendant on the interment of Ba-loo-derry. When Ba-rang-a-roo Da-ring-ha, Bennillong's wife, died, he determined at once to burn her, and requested Governor Phillip, Mr. White, and myself, to attend him. He was accompanied by his own sister Car-rang-ar-rang, Collins, Ca-ru-ey, Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie, and one or two other women.

Such were the ceremonies surrounding the burial of Ba-loo-derry. When Ba-rang-a-roo Da-ring-ha, Bennillong's wife, passed away, he decided right away to have her cremated and asked Governor Phillip, Mr. White, and me to join him. He was accompanied by his sister Car-rang-ar-rang, Collins, Ca-ru-ey, Yem-mer-ra-wan-nie, and a couple of other women.

Collins prepared the spot whereon the pile was to be constructed, by excavating the ground with a stick, to the depth of three or four inches, and on this part so turned up were first placed small sticks and light brushwood; larger pieces were then laid on each side of these; and so on till the pile might be about three feet in height, the ends and sides of which were thus formed of large dry wood, while the middle of it consisted of small twigs and branches, broken for the purpose and thrown together. When wood enough had been procured, some grass was spread over the pile, and the corpse, covered with an old blanket, was borne to it by the men, and placed on it with the head to the northward. A basket with the fishing apparatus and other small furniture of the deceased was placed by her side; and, Bennillong having laid some large logs of wood over the body, the pile was lighted by one of the party. Being constructed of dry wood, it was quickly all in a flame, and Bennillong himself pointed out to us a black smoke, which proceeded from the centre of the pile where the body lay, and signified that the fire had reached it.

Collins prepared the spot where the fire would be built by digging into the ground with a stick, going down about three or four inches. On this turned-up earth, he first laid down small sticks and light brushwood; larger pieces were then added on either side, continuing until the pile was about three feet high. The ends and sides were made of large dry wood, while the middle was filled with small twigs and branches, broken up for this purpose and tossed together. When they had gathered enough wood, some grass was spread over the pile, and the body, wrapped in an old blanket, was carried to it by the men and placed on top with the head facing north. A basket containing the deceased's fishing gear and other small belongings was placed beside her. Bennillong then laid some large logs over the body, and one of the group lit the pile. Made of dry wood, it quickly went up in flames, and Bennillong pointed out to us a black smoke rising from the center of the pile where the body lay, indicating that the fire had reached it.

We left the spot long before the last billet was consumed, and Bennillong appeared during the day more cheerful than we had expected, and spoke about finding a nurse from among the white women to suckle his child.

We left the place long before the last drink was finished, and Bennillong showed up during the day happier than we thought he would be, and talked about finding a nurse from among the white women to breastfeed his child.

The following day he invited us to see him rake the ashes of his wife together, and we accompanied him to the spot, unattended by any of his own people. He preceded us in a sort of solemn silence, speaking to no one until he had paid Ba-rang-a-roo the last duties of a husband. In his hand he had the spear with which he meant to punish the car-rah-dy Wil-le-me-ring for non-attendance on his wife when she was ill, with the end of which he raked the calcined bones and ashes together in a heap. Then, laying the spear upon the ground, he formed with a piece of bark a tumulus that would have done credit to a well-practised grave-digger, carefully laying the earth round, smoothing every little unevenness, and paying a scrupulous attention to the exact proportion of its form. On each side the tumulus he placed a log of wood, and on the top of it deposited the piece of bark with which he had so carefully effected its construction. When all was done he asked us 'if it was good,' and appeared pleased when we assured him that it was.

The next day, he invited us to watch him gather the ashes of his wife, and we went with him to the site, without any of his people. He led the way in a kind of solemn silence, not speaking to anyone until he had fulfilled the last duties of a husband for Ba-rang-a-roo. In his hand, he held the spear he intended to use to punish the car-rah-dy Wil-le-me-ring for not being there for his wife when she was sick, and with it, he collected the charred bones and ashes into a pile. After laying the spear down, he shaped a mound with a piece of bark that would impress any skilled grave-digger, carefully placing the earth around it, smoothing out every bump, and paying meticulous attention to its shape. He placed a log of wood on each side of the mound and put the piece of bark he used in building it on top. When he finished, he asked us if it looked good and seemed pleased when we confirmed that it did.

His deportment on this occasion was solemn and manly; an expressive silence marked his conduct throughout the scene; in fact we attended him as silently, and with close observation. He did not suffer any thing to divert him from the business he had in hand, nor did he seem to be in the least desirous to have it quickly dispatched, but paid this last rite with an attention that did honour to his feelings as a man, as it seemed the result of an heartfelt affection for the object of it, of whose person nothing now remained but a piece or two of calcined bone. When his melancholy work was ended, he stood for a few minutes with his hands folded over his bosom, and his eye fixed upon his labours in the attitude of a man in profound thought. Perhaps in that small interval of time many ideas presented themselves to his imagination. His hands had just completed the last service he could render to a woman who, no doubt, had been useful to him; one to whom he was certainly attached (of many instances of which we had at different times been witness) and one who had left him a living pledge of some moments at least of endearment. Perhaps under the heap which his hands had raised, and on which his eyes were fixed, his imagination traced the form of her whom he might formerly have fought for, and whom he now was never to behold again. Perhaps when turning from the grave of his deceased companion, he directed all his thoughts to the preservation of the little one she had left him; and when he quitted the spot his anxiety might be directed to the child, in the idea that he might one day see his Ba-rang-aroo revive in his little motherless Dil-boong.

His behavior during this moment was serious and strong; an expressive silence marked how he acted throughout the scene. We watched him intently and quietly. He didn’t let anything distract him from the task at hand, nor did he seem eager to get it over with quickly; instead, he honored this final rite with a focus that reflected his feelings as a man, stemming from a deep affection for the person it concerned, of whom only a few pieces of charred bone remained. When he finished his somber task, he stood for a few moments with his hands folded over his chest, his eyes fixed on his work, appearing deep in thought. In that brief moment, a flurry of thoughts might have crossed his mind. His hands had just completed the last service he could offer to a woman who had undoubtedly been important to him; one to whom he was clearly attached (as we had witnessed on many occasions), and who left him with a living reminder of shared moments of affection. Perhaps beneath the pile he had created, which he was staring at, he imagined the shape of the woman he might have previously fought for, but whom he would never see again. Maybe as he turned away from the grave of his deceased companion, his thoughts shifted entirely to caring for the little one she had left him; when he left the grave, his concern might have been directed toward the child, hoping he might one day see his Ba-rang-aroo brought back to life in his little motherless Dil-boong.

Cole-be's wife, who bore the same names as the deceased, lost them both on this occasion, and was called by every one Bo-rahng-al-le-on. This peculiarity was also observed by them with respect to a little girl of ours, of whom Ba-rang-a-roo was so fond as to call her always by her own name. On her decease she too was styled Bo-rahng-al-le-on.

Cole-be's wife, who had the same names as the deceased, lost both of them this time, and everyone called her Bo-rahng-al-le-on. They also noticed this with a little girl of ours, whom Ba-rang-a-roo loved so much that she always called her by her own name. When she died, she was also referred to as Bo-rahng-al-le-on.

Cole-be's wife, the namesake of the Ba-rang-a-roo I have just mentioned, did not survive her many months. She died of a consumption, brought on by suckling a little girl who was at her breast when she died. This circumstance led to the knowledge of a curious but horrid custom which obtains among these people. The mother died in the town, and when she was taken to the grave her corpse was carried to the door of every hut and house she had been accustomed to enter during the latter days of her illness, the bearers presenting her with the same ceremonies as were used at the funeral of Ba-loo-der-ry, when the little girl Dil-boong and the boy Be-dia were placed before his corpse.

Cole-be's wife, who shares her name with the Ba-rang-a-roo I just mentioned, didn't survive long. She died from tuberculosis, which was caused by nursing a little girl who was at her breast when she passed away. This situation revealed a strange yet grim custom among these people. The mother died in the town, and when she was taken to her grave, her body was carried to the door of every hut and house she had frequented during the last days of her illness, the bearers using the same rituals that were observed at the funeral of Ba-loo-der-ry, when the little girl Dil-boong and the boy Be-dia were placed before his corpse.

When the body was placed in the grave, the bye-standers were amazed to see the father himself place the living child in it with the mother. Having laid the child down, he threw upon it a large stone, and the grave was instantly filled in by the other natives. The whole business was so momentary, that our people had not time or presence of mind sufficient to prevent it; and on speaking about it to Cole-be, be, so far from thinking it inhuman, justified the extraordinary act by assuring us that as no woman could be found to nurse the child it must die a much worse death than that to which he had put it. As a similar circumstance occurred a short time after, we have every reason to suppose the custom always prevails among them; and this may in some degree account for the thinness of population which has been observed among the natives of the country.*

When they placed the body in the grave, the onlookers were shocked to see the father himself lay the living child in there with the mother. After placing the child down, he threw a large stone on top, and the grave was quickly filled in by the other locals. The whole thing happened so fast that our people didn’t have the time or presence of mind to stop it; and when we talked about it with Cole-be, he, far from considering it inhumane, justified the unusual act by claiming that since no woman could be found to care for the child, it would suffer a much worse fate than the one he provided. Since a similar incident happened a short while later, we have every reason to believe this practice is common among them; and this might partly explain the sparse population observed among the locals of the region.*

[* Cole-be's child was about four or five months old, and seemed to have partaken of its mother's illness. I think it could not have lived.]

[* Cole-be's child was around four or five months old and appeared to have inherited its mother's illness. I don't think it could survive.]

I have said that these women were namesakes. Bennillong's wife was called Ba-rang-a-roo Daring-ha; Cole-be's, Daring-ha Ba-rang-a-roo. A peculiarity in their language occurs to me in this place. The males of the same name call each other Da-me-li, the women call each other Da-me-li-ghen.

I mentioned that these women shared the same name. Bennillong's wife was named Ba-rang-a-roo Daring-ha; Cole-be's wife was Daring-ha Ba-rang-a-roo. A unique aspect of their language comes to mind here. Men with the same name refer to each other as Da-me-li, while the women call each other Da-me-li-ghen.

I have mentioned their taking particular names on certain occasions. The mutual friend who attends them to the field is styled Ca-bah-my; the persons who at their funerals are painted red and white, are named Moo-by; the namesake of a deceased person, if a male, is styled Bo-rahng; if a woman, Bo-rahn-gal-le-on. When Nor-roo-ing came into the town to acquaint us with the death of Yel-lo-way, she was perfectly a dismal sorrowing figure. She had covered herself entirely with ashes, was named while she continued so Go-lahng, and refused all kinds of sustenance.

I’ve mentioned how they use specific names on certain occasions. The mutual friend who goes with them to the field is called Ca-bah-my; the people who are painted red and white at their funerals are referred to as Moo-by; the namesake of a deceased male is called Bo-rahng, while for a female, it’s Bo-rahn-gal-le-on. When Nor-roo-ing came into town to tell us about Yel-lo-way’s death, she looked like a figure of complete despair. She had covered herself completely in ashes, was called Go-lahng while she stayed that way, and refused to eat anything.

The annexed Plate represents the burning of the corpse of a native who was killed by a limb of a tree falling on him. He was brought to the spot with all the preceding ceremonies. His head was laid to the northward, and in his hands were deposited his spear and his throwing-stick. His ashes were afterwards raked together, and a tumulus erected over them, similar to that which Bennillong had raised over his wife.

The attached image shows the cremation of a local man who was killed by a tree branch falling on him. He was taken to the site with all the necessary rituals. His head was oriented north, and his spear and throwing-stick were placed in his hands. Later, his ashes were gathered and a mound was built over them, similar to the one Bennillong built for his wife.

Ceremony of burning a corpse.

Cremation ceremony.

APPENDIX XII--LANGUAGE

In giving an account of an unwritten language many difficulties occur. For things cognizable by the external senses, names may be easily procured; but not so for those which depend on action, or address themselves only to the mind: for instance, a spear was an object both visible and tangible, and a name for it was easily obtained; but the use of it went through a number of variations and inflexions, which it was extremely difficult to ascertain; indeed I never could, with any degree of certainty fix the infinitive mood of any one of their verbs. The following sketch is therefore very limited, though, as far as it does proceed, the reader may be assured of its accuracy.

In explaining an unwritten language, many challenges arise. It's easy to find names for things we can see or touch, but it's not the same for concepts that depend on actions or only appeal to the mind. For example, a spear is something you can see and hold, so we can easily name it; however, how it's used changes in many ways that are really hard to figure out. In fact, I could never reliably determine the basic form of any of their verbs. Therefore, this overview is quite limited, but as far as it goes, the reader can trust its accuracy.

Their language is extremely grateful to the ear, being in many instances expressive and sonorous. It certainly has no analogy with any other known language (at least so far as my knowledge of any other language extends), one or two instances excepted, which will be noticed in the specimen. The dialect spoken by the natives at Sydney not only differs entirely from that left us by Captain Cook of the people with whom he had intercourse to the northward (about Endeavour river) but also from that spoken by those natives who lived at Port Stephens, and to the southward of Botany Bay (about Adventure Bay), as well as on the banks of the Hawkesbury. We often heard, that people from the northward had been met with, who could not be exactly understood by our friends; but this is not so wonderful as that people living at the distance of only fifty or sixty miles should call the sun and moon by different names; such, however, was the fact. In an excursion to the banks of the Hawkesbury, accompanied by two Sydney natives, we first discovered this difference; but our companions conversed with the river natives without any apparent difficulty, each understanding or comprehending the other.

Their language is really pleasant to listen to, often expressive and melodious. It definitely doesn't resemble any other known language (at least as far as I know), with a couple of exceptions that will be mentioned in the example. The dialect spoken by the natives in Sydney is completely different from the one documented by Captain Cook regarding the people he interacted with to the north (around Endeavour River), as well as from the language of those natives living at Port Stephens and south of Botany Bay (around Adventure Bay), and along the Hawkesbury River. We often heard that people from the north had been encountered who couldn’t be fully understood by our friends; however, it’s even more surprising that people living just fifty or sixty miles apart would call the sun and moon by different names, but that was indeed the case. During a trip to the banks of the Hawkesbury, accompanied by two natives from Sydney, we first noticed this difference, but our companions were able to chat with the river natives without any apparent issues, each understanding the other clearly.

We have often remarked a sensible difference on hearing the same word sounded by two people; and, in fact, they have been observed sometimes to differ from themselves, substituting often the letter b for p, and g for c, and vice versa. In their alphabet they have neither s nor v; and some of their letters would require a new character to ascertain them precisely.

We have often noticed a noticeable difference when hearing the same word pronounced by two different people; in fact, it's been seen that they sometimes change sounds themselves, often swapping the letter b for p, and g for c, and vice versa. In their alphabet, there are no s or v; and some of their letters would need a new symbol to be identified precisely.

What follows is offered only as a specimen, not as a perfect vocabulary of their language.

What follows is just an example, not a complete vocabulary of their language.

NEW SOUTH WALES          ENGLISH
---------------          -------

NAMES CHIEFLY OF OBJECTS OF SENSE

Co-ing                   The sun
Yen-na-dah               The moon
Bir-rong                 A star
Mo-loo-mo-long           The Pleiades
War-re-wull              The Milky Way
Ca-ra-go-ro              A cloud
Boo-do-en-ong
general name
Cal-gal-le-on            The Magellanic
the greater              clouds
Gnar-rang-al-le-on
the lesser
Tu-ru-p                  A star falling
Co-ing bi-bo-ba          Sun-rising
Bour-ra                  The sky
Co-ing bur-re-goo-lah    Sun-setting
Gnoo-wing                Night
Carn-mar-roo
Tar-re-ber-re            Day
Gwe-yong                 Fire
Cad-jee                  Smoke
Gil-le                   A spark
Per-mul                  Earth
Ta-go-ra                 Cold
Yoo-roo-ga               Heat
Men-nie-no-long          Dew
Pan-na, and Wal-lan      Rain
Ba-do                    Water
Chi-a-ra                 Name
Car-rig-er-rang          The sea
Go-nie                   A hut
Now-ey                   A canoe
Beng-al-le               A basket
Car-rah-jun              A fishing-line
Gnam-mul                 A sinker [A small stone to sink the line]
Bur-ra                   A hook
Ke-ba                    A stone or rock
Bwo-mar                  A grave
Bow-wan                  A shadow
Ma-hn                    A ghost
Wir-roong                Scars on the back
Cong-ar-ray              Scars on the breast
jee-run                  A coward
Can-ning                 A cave
Me-diong                 A sore [On noticing a hole in any part of
                                 our dress they term it Me-diong]
Ya-goo-na                To-day
Bo-ra-ne                 Yesterday
Par-ry-boo-go            To-morrow
Mul-lin-ow-ool           In the morning
Jen-ni-be                Laughter
Boo-roo-wang             An island [This word they applied
                                    to our ships]
Gno-rang                 A place
E-ring                   A valley
Boo-do                   A torch made of reeds
Mi-yal                   A stranger [This word has reference to sight;
                                     Mi, the eye.]
Ar-rung-a                A calm
Moo-roo-bin              Woman's milk
Ew-ing                   Truth
Ca-bahn                  An egg
Yab-bun                  Instrumental music
Yoo-long or              Cleared ground for public ceremonies
Yoo-lahng

ADJECTIVES

Bood-jer-re              Good
Wee-re                   Bad
Mur-ray                  Great
Gnar-rang                Small
Coo-rar-re               Long
Too-mur-ro               Short
Go-jy                    Rotten
Go-jay-by
Bin-nice                 Pregnant
Par-rat-ber-ri           Empty
Bo-ruck                  Full
Pe-mul-gine              Dirty
Bar-gat                  Afraid
                         Frightened
Ba-diel                  Ill
Moo-la                   Sick
Boo-row-a                Above or upward
Cad-i                    Below or under
Bar-bug-gi               Lost
War-rang-i               Right
Doo-room-i               Left
Goo-lar-ra               Angry
Yu-ro-ra                 Passionate
Wo-gul, and Wo-cul       One
Yoo-blow-re, and Boo-la  Two
Brew-y                   Three
Mur-ray-too-lo           A great many
Gnal-le-a                Both
Moo-jel                  Red
Ta-bo-a                  White
Gna-na                   Black
Bool-gi-ga               Green
Moo-ton-ore              Lame
Yu-roo, and
Yu-roo-gur-ra            Hungry
Mo-rem-me                Yes
Beall                    No
Mar-rey                  Wet

PARTS OF THE HUMAN BODY

Ca-ber-ra                Head
Gnul-lo                  Forehead
Mi                       Eye
Yin-ner-ry               Eye-brow
No-gro, or No-gur-ro     Nose
Kar-ga                   Mouth
Wil-ling                 Lips
Da-ra                    Teeth
Tal-lang                 Tongue
Wal-lo                   Chin
Go-ray                   Ear
Cad-le-ar                Neck
Cad-le-ang Na-bung       Breast or Nipple
Yar-rin                  Beard [This they often singe, and describe it
                                as a painful operation]
De-war-ra                Hair [This is commonly full of vermin, which
                               I have seen them eat, and change from
                               one soil (sic) to another.]
Bar-rong                 Belly
Go-rook                  Knee
Dar-ra                   Leg
Ma-no-e                  Foot
Tam-mir-ra               Hand
Ber-rll-le               Fingers
Car-rung-un              Nail
Bib-be                   Ribs
Ba-rongle                Vein
Pa-di-el                 Flesh or lean
Bog-gay, or Pog-gay      Fat
Tar-rang                 Arm
0-nur                    Elbow
Wy-o-man-no              Thumb
Dar-ra-gal-lic           Fore-finger
Ba-roo-gal-lie           Middle or ring'd
Wel-leng-al-lie          Little finger

CONSANGUINITY

Eo-ra                    The name common for the natives
Mu-la                    A man
Din                      A woman
Din-al-le-ong            Women [One of the few instances I could ever
                                discover of a plural or dual number]
Gin-al-le-ong
Be-an-na; this they
shorten to
Be-an and
Be-a, and
when in pain,
they exclaim
Be-a-ri                  A father
Wy-an-na, and            Mother
Wy-ang
Go-mang                  Grandfather
Ba-bun-na                Brother
Ma-mun-na                Sister
Go-roong                 A child
We-row-ey                A female child
Wong-er-ra               A male ditto
Na-bung-ay wui-dal-liez  Infant at the breast
[Compounded of Na-bung its breast, and Wai-dal-liez relating to drinking]
Bore-goo-roo             Child eight months old
Guy-a-nay-yong           An old man
Mau-gohn                 A wife
Mau-gohn-nal-ly          A temporary ditto
Go-rah-gal-long          A handsome man
Go-rah-gal-long-
   al-le-ong             A handsome woman
Ma-lin, Nurkine,
Mud-gin
Gnar-ra-mat-ta           A relation [To these I never could affix
                                     precise meanings]
Cow-ul                   Male of animals
We ring                  Female of ditto
Do-roon                  A son
Do-roon-e-nang           A daughter
Go-mul                   A term of friendship
Cam-mar-rade,            Terms of affection used by girls
and Ca-mong-al-lay

SPEARS AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS

Goong-un                 A spear with four barbs cut in the wood,
                         which they do not throw, but strike with
                         hand to hand
Noo-ro Ca-my             A spear with one barb, fastened on
Ca-my                    A spear with two barbs--This word is
                         used for spear in general
Bil-larr                 A spear with one barb, cut from the wood
Wal-lang-al-le-ong       A spear armed with pieces of shell
Can-na-diul              A spear armed with stones
Ghe-rub-bine             A spear without a barb
Doci-ull                 A short spear
No-roo-gal Ca-my         Holes made by a shield
E-lec-mong               A shield made of bark
Ar-ra-gong               A shield cut out from the solid wood
Moo-ting
Cal-larr                 Fizgigs
Car-rab-ba               Prong of the moo-ting
Dam-moo-ne               Prong of the cal-larr.
Woo-dah,                 Names of clubs.
Can-na-tal-ling,
Doo-win-null,
Can-ni-cull,
Car-ru-wang,
Wo-mur-rang.
Gnal-lung-ul-la,
Tar-ril-ber-re,
Mo-go,                   Stone hatchet.
We-bat,                  Handle of ditto.
Wo-mer-ra,               Throwing-stick

PRONOUNS, ADVERBS, AND MODE OF ADDRESS

Gni-a,                   I, or myself
Gnee-ne,                 You.
Gnee-ne-de,              Yours.
Dan-nai,                 Mine.
Dar-ring-al,             His.
Gna-ni,                  Whose.
Wan,                     Where.
De,                      There.
Diam,                    Here.
Diam o waw?              Where are you?
Diam o diam o,           Here I am.
Gnalm Chiara, gnahn?     What is your name?
Bir-rong,                Appertaining.

WINDS

Bow-wan,                 North.
Bal-gay-al-lang,         South.
Boo-roo-wee,             East.
Bain-mar-ray,            West.
Doo-loo-gal,             North-west.
Yare-ba-lahng,           South-west.
Go-me-mah,               North-east.
Gwar-ra,                 A high wind

INFLEXIONS OF THE VERBS.

Gnia-na,                 Sighing.
Bwo-me,                  Breathing.
Dere-rign-ang,           Sneezing.
Car-re-nar-re-bil-le,    Coughing.
Yen-no-ra,               Walking.
Yen-mow,                 I will walk or go.
Yenn,                    Go or walk.
Yen-ma-nia,              We will walk or go.
Yen-wor-ro,              He is gone.
Yen-nim-me,              You are going.
Yen-nool,                Relating to walking.
Yen-noong,
Yen-nore-yen,
Yen-nang-allea,          Let us both walk.
AI-locy,                 Stay.
Wo-roo-wo-roo,           Go away.
War-re-war-re,
Pat-ta-diow,             I have eaten.
Pat-td-die-mi,           You have eaten.
Pat-ty,                  He has eaten.
Pat-ta-bow,              I will eat.
Pat-td-baw-me,           You will eat, or will you eat?
Pat-ta-ne,               They eat.
Wul-da-diow,             I have drank.
Wul-da-dic-mi,           You have drank.
Nwya jee-ming-a,         Give me.
Py-yay,                  Killed.
Jung-ara py-yay,         Killed by dogs.
Par-rat-ben-ni-diow      I have emptied.
Py-ya-bow,               I will strike or beat.
Py-yee,                  He did beat.
E-ra-bow,                I will throw.
E-ra,                    Throw you.
E-rail-leiz,             Throwing.
Mahn-me-diow.            I have taken it.
Mahn-iow,                Shall I, or I shall take.
Goo-ra,                  Sunk.
Ton-ga-bil-lie,          Did cry.
Wau-me,                  Scolding or abusing.
Wau-me-bow               I will scold or abuse
Wau-me-diow              I have scolded or abused
Wau-me-diang-ha          They have scolded or abused
Nang-er-ra               He sleeps
Nang-a
Nang-a-bow               I will sleep
Nang-a-diow              I have slept
Nang-a-diem-me           You have slept
Nang-a-bau-me?           Will you sleep?
Go-ro-da                 He snores
Gna-na le-ma             She or he breathes
Al-lo-wan                He lives or remains
Al-lo-wah                Stay here, or sit down
Wal-loo-me-yen-wal-loo?  Where are you going?
War-re-me-war-re         Where have you been?
Gna-diow                 You have seen
Gna-diem-me              I have seen
Gna-bow                  I will see
Gna                      See
Era-mad-jow-in-nia       Forced from him
Car-rah-ma               Stealing
Wor-ga-wee-na            He whistles, or whistling
Goo-lar-ra py-yel-la     Snarling with anger
Man-nie mong-alla        Surprised
Yare-ba                  Tired
Pe-to-e                  Sought for
Man-nie mal-lee          He was startled
Nwya-bow-in-nia          I will give you
 Wan-ye-wan-yi           He lies
Ma-row-e                 He creeps
Bang-a-ja-bun            He did paddle
Noy-ga                   Howling as a dog
Toll                     Biting
Co-e, Cow-e Cwoi,
Cow-ana                  Come here
Wad-be                   Swimming
Bo-gay                   Diving
Ta-yo-ra, Me-diang-a     Severely cold. Me-diang-a is compounded of
                         Me-diong, a sore
Mul-la-ra                Married. Compounded of Mulla, a man

BEASTS

Jung-o                   Common name
Pat-a-go-rang            A large grey kang-oo-roo
Bag-gar-ray              Small red ditto
Wal-li-bah               Black ditto
Tein-go
Din-go
Wor-re-gal               Dog
Boo-roo-min              Grey vulpine opossum
Go-ra-go-ro              Red ditto
Wob-bin                  Flying squirrel
Ga-ni-mong               Kang-oo-roo rat
Wee-ree-a-min            Large fox rat
Wee-ree-am-by
Bo-gul                   Rat or mouse
Me-rea-gine              Spotted rat

BIRDS

Ma-ray-ong               Emu
Go-ree-all               A parrot
Mul-go                   A black swan
Car-rang-a bo mur-ray    A pelican. When they see this bird over their
                         heads, they sing the following words:
Yoo-rong-i               A ivild duck.
Goad-gang,               A wild pigeon
Wir-gan                  Bird named by us the Friar
Gnoo-roo-me
ta-twa-natwa na-twa--Gno-roo me ta-twa na-twa,
na-twa, tar-ra wow, tar-ra wow*

NEW SOUTH WALES          ENGLISH
---------------          -------

NAMES CHIEFLY OF OBJECTS OF SENSE

Co-ing                   The sun  
Yen-na-dah               The moon  
Bir-rong                 A star  
Mo-loo-mo-long           The Pleiades  
War-re-wull              The Milky Way  
Ca-ra-go-ro              A cloud  
Boo-do-en-ong            general name  
Cal-gal-le-on            The Magellanic clouds  
Gnar-rang-al-le-on       the lesser  
Tu-ru-p                  A star falling  
Co-ing bi-bo-ba          Sun-rising  
Bour-ra                  The sky  
Co-ing bur-re-goo-lah    Sun-setting  
Gnoo-wing                Night  
Carn-mar-roo             Day  
Tar-re-ber-re            Day  
Gwe-yong                 Fire  
Cad-jee                  Smoke  
Gil-le                   A spark  
Per-mul                  Earth  
Ta-go-ra                 Cold  
Yoo-roo-ga               Heat  
Men-nie-no-long          Dew  
Pan-na, and Wal-lan      Rain  
Ba-do                    Water  
Chi-a-ra                 Name  
Car-rig-er-rang          The sea  
Go-nie                   A hut  
Now-ey                   A canoe  
Beng-al-le               A basket  
Car-rah-jun              A fishing-line  
Gnam-mul                 A sinker [A small stone to sink the line]  
Bur-ra                   A hook  
Ke-ba                    A stone or rock  
Bwo-mar                  A grave  
Bow-wan                  A shadow  
Ma-hn                    A ghost  
Wir-roong                Scars on the back  
Cong-ar-ray              Scars on the breast  
jee-run                  A coward  
Can-ning                 A cave  
Me-diong                 A sore [On noticing a hole in any part of our dress they term it Me-diong]  
Ya-goo-na                To-day  
Bo-ra-ne                 Yesterday  
Par-ry-boo-go            To-morrow  
Mul-lin-ow-ool           In the morning  
Jen-ni-be                Laughter  
Boo-roo-wang             An island [This word they applied to our ships]  
Gno-rang                 A place  
E-ring                   A valley  
Boo-do                   A torch made of reeds  
Mi-yal                   A stranger [This word has reference to sight; Mi, the eye.]  
Ar-rung-a                A calm  
Moo-roo-bin              Woman's milk  
Ew-ing                   Truth  
Ca-bahn                  An egg  
Yab-bun                  Instrumental music  
Yoo-long or              Cleared ground for public ceremonies  
Yoo-lahng            

ADJECTIVES

Bood-jer-re              Good  
Wee-re                   Bad  
Mur-ray                  Great  
Gnar-rang                Small  
Coo-rar-re               Long  
Too-mur-ro               Short  
Go-jy                    Rotten  
Go-jay-by                Pregnant  
Par-rat-ber-ri           Empty  
Bo-ruck                  Full  
Pe-mul-gine              Dirty  
Bar-gat                  Afraid  
                         Frightened  
Ba-diel                  Ill  
Moo-la                   Sick  
Boo-row-a                Above or upward  
Cad-i                    Below or under  
Bar-bug-gi               Lost  
War-rang-i               Right  
Doo-room-i               Left  
Goo-lar-ra               Angry  
Yu-ro-ra                 Passionate  
Wo-gul, and Wo-cul       One  
Yoo-blow-re, and Boo-la  Two  
Brew-y                   Three  
Mur-ray-too-lo           A great many  
Gnal-le-a                Both  
Moo-jel                  Red  
Ta-bo-a                  White  
Gna-na                   Black  
Bool-gi-ga               Green  
Moo-ton-ore              Lame  
Yu-roo, and              Hungry  
Yu-roo-gur-ra            Hungry  
Mo-rem-me                Yes  
Beall                    No  
Mar-rey                  Wet  

PARTS OF THE HUMAN BODY

Ca-ber-ra                Head  
Gnul-lo                  Forehead  
Mi                       Eye  
Yin-ner-ry               Eye-brow  
No-gro, or No-gur-ro     Nose  
Kar-ga                   Mouth  
Wil-ling                 Lips  
Da-ra                    Teeth  
Tal-lang                 Tongue  
Wal-lo                   Chin  
Go-ray                   Ear  
Cad-le-ar                Neck  
Cad-le-ang Na-bung       Breast or Nipple  
Yar-rin                  Beard [This they often singe, and describe it as a painful operation]  
De-war-ra                Hair [This is commonly full of vermin, which I have seen them eat, and change from one soil (sic) to another.]  
Bar-rong                 Belly  
Go-rook                  Knee  
Dar-ra                   Leg  
Ma-no-e                  Foot  
Tam-mir-ra               Hand  
Ber-rll-le               Fingers  
Car-rung-un              Nail  
Bib-be                   Ribs  
Ba-rongle                Vein  
Pa-di-el                 Flesh or lean  
Bog-gay, or Pog-gay      Fat  
Tar-rang                 Arm  
0-nur                    Elbow  
Wy-o-man-no              Thumb  
Dar-ra-gal-lic           Fore-finger  
Ba-roo-gal-lie           Middle or ring'd  
Wel-leng-al-lie          Little finger  

CONSANGUINITY

Eo-ra                    The name common for the natives  
Mu-la                    A man  
Din                      A woman  
Din-al-le-ong            Women [One of the few instances I could ever discover of a plural or dual number]  
Gin-al-le-ong           Be-an-na; this they shorten to Be-an and Be-a, and when in pain, they exclaim Be-a-ri                  A father  
Wy-an-na, and            Mother  
Wy-ang                   Grandfather  
Go-mang                  Grandfather  
Ba-bun-na                Brother  
Ma-mun-na                Sister  
Go-roong                 A child  
We-row-ey                A female child  
Wong-er-ra               A male ditto  
Na-bung-ay wui-dal-liez  Infant at the breast [Compounded of Na-bung its breast, and Wai-dal-liez relating to drinking]  
Bore-goo-roo             Child eight months old  
Guy-a-nay-yong           An old man  
Mau-gohn                 A wife  
Mau-gohn-nal-ly          A temporary ditto  
Go-rah-gal-long          A handsome man  
Go-rah-gal-long-          A handsome woman  
al-le-ong               
Ma-lin, Nurkine,          
Mud-gin                  A relation [To these I never could affix precise meanings]  
Cow-ul                   Male of animals  
We ring                  Female of ditto  
Do-roon                  A son  
Do-roon-e-nang           A daughter  
Go-mul                   A term of friendship  
Cam-mar-rade,            Terms of affection used by girls  
and Ca-mong-al-lay  

SPEARS AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS

Goong-un                 A spear with four barbs cut in the wood, which they do not throw, but strike with hand to hand  
Noo-ro Ca-my             A spear with one barb, fastened on  
Ca-my                    A spear with two barbs--This word is used for spear in general  
Bil-larr                 A spear with one barb, cut from the wood  
Wal-lang-al-le-ong       A spear armed with pieces of shell  
Can-na-diul              A spear armed with stones  
Ghe-rub-bine             A spear without a barb  
Doci-ull                 A short spear  
No-roo-gal Ca-my         Holes made by a shield  
E-lec-mong               A shield made of bark  
Ar-ra-gong               A shield cut out from the solid wood  
Moo-ting                 Cal-larr                 Fizgigs  
Car-rab-ba               Prong of the moo-ting  
Dam-moo-ne               Prong of the cal-larr.  
Woo-dah,                 Names of clubs.  
Can-na-tal-ling,  
Doo-win-null,  
Can-ni-cull,  
Car-ru-wang,  
Wo-mur-rang.  
Gnal-lung-ul-la,  
Tar-ril-ber-re,  
Mo-go,                   Stone hatchet.  
We-bat,                  Handle of ditto.  
Wo-mer-ra,               Throwing-stick  

PRONOUNS, ADVERBS, AND MODE OF ADDRESS

Gni-a,                   I, or myself  
Gnee-ne,                 You.  
Gnee-ne-de,              Yours.  
Dan-nai,                 Mine.  
Dar-ring-al,             His.  
Gna-ni,                  Whose.  
Wan,                     Where.  
De,                      There.  
Diam,                    Here.  
Diam o waw?              Where are you?  
Diam o diam o,           Here I am.  
Gnalm Chiara, gnahn?     What is your name?  
Bir-rong,                Appertaining.  

WINDS

Bow-wan,                 North.  
Bal-gay-al-lang,         South.  
Boo-roo-wee,             East.  
Bain-mar-ray,            West.  
Doo-loo-gal,             North-west.  
Yare-ba-lahng,           South-west.  
Go-me-mah,               North-east.  
Gwar-ra,                 A high wind  

INFLEXIONS OF THE VERBS.

Gnia-na,                 Sighing.  
Bwo-me,                  Breathing.  
Dere-rign-ang,           Sneezing.  
Car-re-nar-re-bil-le,    Coughing.  
Yen-no-ra,               Walking.  
Yen-mow,                 I will walk or go.  
Yenn,                    Go or walk.  
Yen-ma-nia,              We will walk or go.  
Yen-wor-ro,              He is gone.  
Yen-nim-me,              You are going.  
Yen-nool,                Relating to walking.  
Yen-noong,  
Yen-nore-yen,  
Yen-nang-allea,          Let us both walk.  
AI-locy,                 Stay.  
Wo-roo-wo-roo,           Go away.  
War-re-war-re,  
Pat-ta-diow,             I have eaten.  
Pat-td-die-mi,           You have eaten.  
Pat-ty,                  He has eaten.  
Pat-ta-bow,              I will eat.  
Pat-td-baw-me,           You will eat, or will you eat?  
Pat-ta-ne,               They eat.  
Wul-da-diow,             I have drank.  
Wul-da-dic-mi,           You have drank.  
Nwya jee-ming-a,         Give me.  
Py-yay,                  Killed.  
Jung-ara py-yay,         Killed by dogs.  
Par-rat-ben-ni-diow      I have emptied.  
Py-ya-bow,               I will strike or beat.  
Py-yee,                  He did beat.  
E-ra-bow,                I will throw.  
E-ra,                    Throw you.  
E-rail-leiz,             Throwing.  
Mahn-me-diow.            I have taken it.  
Mahn-iow,                Shall I, or I shall take.  
Goo-ra,                  Sunk.  
Ton-ga-bil-lie,          Did cry.  
Wau-me,                  Scolding or abusing.  
Wau-me-bow               I will scold or abuse  
Wau-me-diow              I have scolded or abused  
Wau-me-diang-ha          They have scolded or abused  
Nang-er-ra               He sleeps  
Nang-a  
Nang-a-bow               I will sleep  
Nang-a-diow              I have slept  
Nang-a-diem-me           You have slept  
Nang-a-bau-me?           Will you sleep?  
Go-ro-da                 He snores  
Gna-na le-ma             She or he breathes  
Al-lo-wan                He lives or remains  
Al-lo-wah                Stay here, or sit down  
Wal-loo-me-yen-wal-loo?  Where are you going?  
War-re-me-war-re         Where have you been?  
Gna-diow                 You have seen  
Gna-diem-me              I have seen  
Gna-bow                  I will see  
Gna                      See  
Era-mad-jow-in-nia       Forced from him  
Car-rah-ma               Stealing  
Wor-ga-wee-na            He whistles, or whistling  
Goo-lar-ra py-yel-la     Snarling with anger  
Man-nie mong-alla        Surprised  
Yare-ba                  Tired  
Pe-to-e                  Sought for  
Man-nie mal-lee          He was startled  
Nwya-bow-in-nia          I will give you  
Wan-ye-wan-yi           He lies  
Ma-row-e                 He creeps  
Bang-a-ja-bun            He did paddle  
Noy-ga                   Howling as a dog  
Toll                     Biting  
Co-e, Cow-e Cwoi,  
Cow-ana                  Come here  
Wad-be                   Swimming  
Bo-gay                   Diving  
Ta-yo-ra, Me-diang-a     Severely cold. Me-diang-a is compounded of Me-diong, a sore  
Mul-la-ra                Married. Compounded of Mulla, a man  

BEASTS

Jung-o                   Common name  
Pat-a-go-rang            A large grey kangaroo  
Bag-gar-ray              Small red ditto  
Wal-li-bah               Black ditto  
Tein-go  
Din-go  
Wor-re-gal               Dog  
Boo-roo-min              Grey vulpine opossum  
Go-ra-go-ro              Red ditto  
Wob-bin                  Flying squirrel  
Ga-ni-mong               Kangaroo rat  
Wee-ree-a-min            Large fox rat  
Wee-ree-am-by           Bo-gul                   Rat or mouse  
Me-rea-gine              Spotted rat  

BIRDS

Ma-ray-ong               Emu  
Go-ree-all               A parrot  
Mul-go                   A black swan  
Car-rang-a bo mur-ray    A pelican. When they see this bird over their heads, they sing the following words:  
Yoo-rong-i               A wild duck.  
Goad-gang,               A wild pigeon  
Wir-gan                  Bird named by us the Friar  
Gnoo-roo-me  
ta-twa-natwa na-twa--Gno-roo me ta-twa na-twa, na-twa, tar-ra wow, tar-ra wow*

[* On seeing a shoal of porpoises, they sing while the fish is above water, Note-le-bre la-la, No-te-le-bre la-la, until it goes down, when they sing the words No-tee, No-tee, until it rises again]

[* When they see a group of porpoises, they sing while the fish are above water, Note-le-bre la-la, No-te-le-bre la-la, until it goes down, then they sing the words No-tee, No-tee, until it pops up again]

Go-gan-ne-gine           the Laughing jack-Ass
Po-book                  Musquito hawk
Wau-gan                  Crow
Jam-mul jam-mul          Common hawk
Gare-a-way               White cockatoo
Ca-rate                  Black ditto
Ur-win-ner-ri-wing       Curlew

INSECTS, REPTILES

Mar-rae-gong             A spider
Mi-a-nong                A fly
Go-ma-go-ma              A beetle
Gil-be-nong              A grasshopper
Bur-roo-die-ra           A butterfly
Go-na-long               Caterpillar
Can-nar-ray              Centipede
Calm                     Snake
Po-boo-nang              A black ant

Go-gan-ne-gine           the Laughing Jackass  
Po-book                  Mosquito Hawk  
Wau-gan                  Crow  
Jam-mul jam-mul          Common Hawk  
Gare-a-way               White Cockatoo  
Ca-rate                  Black Cockatoo  
Ur-win-ner-ri-wing       Curlew  

INSECTS, REPTILES  

Mar-rae-gong             A spider  
Mi-a-nong                A fly  
Go-ma-go-ma              A beetle  
Gil-be-nong              A grasshopper  
Bur-roo-die-ra           A butterfly  
Go-na-long               Caterpillar  
Can-nar-ray              Centipede  
Calm                     Snake  
Po-boo-nang              A black ant

PECULIARITIES OF LANGUAGE

LANGUAGE PECULIARITIES

To the men when fishing they apply the word Mah-ni; to the women, Mahn.

To the men, they use the word Mah-ni while fishing; for the women, it's Mahn.

They make some distinction in another instance when speaking of crying, they say the men Tong-i; the women Tong-e.

They make a distinction in another case when talking about crying; they say the men cry Tong-i, and the women cry Tong-e.

The following difference of dialect was observed between the natives at the Hawkesbury and at Sydney.

The following difference in dialect was noticed between the locals at Hawkesbury and those in Sydney.

COAST          INLAND          ENGLISH
Ca-ber-ra      Co-co           Head
De-war-ra      Ke-war-ra       Hair
Gnul-lo        Nar-ran         Forehead
Mi             Me              Eye
Go-ray         Ben-ne          Ear
Cad-lian       Gang-a          Neck
Ba-rong        Ben-di          Belly
Moo-nur-ro     Boom-boong      Navel
Boong          Bay-ley         Buttocks
Yen-na-dah     Dil-luck        Moon
Co-ing         Con-do-in       Sun
Go-ra          Go-ri-ba        Hail
Go-gen-ne-gine Go-con-de       Laughing jack-ass

COAST          INLAND          ENGLISH  
Ca-ber-ra      Co-co           Head  
De-war-ra      Ke-war-ra       Hair  
Gnul-lo        Nar-ran         Forehead  
Mi             Me              Eye  
Go-ray         Ben-ne          Ear  
Cad-lian       Gang-a          Neck  
Ba-rong        Ben-di          Belly  
Moo-nur-ro     Boom-boong      Navel  
Boong          Bay-ley         Buttocks  
Yen-na-dah     Dil-luck        Moon  
Co-ing         Con-do-in       Sun  
Go-ra          Go-ri-ba        Hail  
Go-gen-ne-gine Go-con-de       Laughing jack-ass

WORDS OF A SONG

SONG LYRICS

Mdng-en-ny-wau-yen-go-nah, bar-ri-boo-lah, bar-re-mah. This they begin at the top of their voices, and continue as long as they can in one breath, sinking to the lowest note, and then rising again to the highest. The words are the names of deceased persons.

Mdng-en-ny-wau-yen-go-nah, bar-ri-boo-lah, bar-re-mah. They start at the highest volume and keep going as long as they can hold their breath, dropping to the lowest note and then rising back to the highest. The words are the names of people who have passed away.

E-i-ah wan-ge-wah, chian-go, wan-de-go. The words of another song, sung in the same manner as the preceding, and of the same meaning.

E-i-ah wan-ge-wah, chian-go, wan-de-go. The words of another song, sung in the same way as the one before, and with the same meaning.

I met with only two or three words which bore a resemblance to any other language.

I came across just a couple of words that resembled any other language.

The middle head of Port Jackson is named Ca-ba Ca-ba--in Portuguese Caba signifies a head. Cam-ma-rade, a term of affection used among girls, has a strong resemblance to the French word Cammerade; and may not some similitude be traced between the word E-lee-mong, a shield, and the word Telamon, the name given to the greater Ajax, on account of his being lord of the seven-fold shield? How these words came into their language must be a mystery till we have a more intimate knowledge of it than I can pretend to.

The middle head of Port Jackson is called Ca-ba Ca-ba—in Portuguese, Caba means a head. Cam-ma-rade, a term of endearment used among girls, is quite similar to the French word Cammerade; and could there be a connection between the word E-lee-mong, meaning a shield, and the word Telamon, which is the name given to the greater Ajax because he was the lord of the seven-fold shield? How these words entered their language will remain a mystery until we have a deeper understanding of it than I can claim to have.

I could have enlarged very much the foregoing account of the natives of New South Wales; but, both in describing their customs and in detailing their language, I have chosen to mention only those facts about which, after much attention and inquiry, I could satisfy my own mind. That they are ignorant savages cannot be disputed; but I hope they do not in the foregoing pages appear to be wholly incapable of becoming one day civilized and useful members of society.

I could have greatly expanded the previous account of the people of New South Wales; however, when describing their customs and detailing their language, I decided to mention only the facts that I could confidently understand after careful research and inquiry. It's undeniable that they are uneducated and primitive, but I hope they do not come across in the previous pages as entirely incapable of eventually becoming civilized and contributing members of society.

POSTSCRIPT

Since the preceding account was printed, letters have been received from New South Wales of as late date as the 20th of August 1797. By these it appears, that his Majesty's ship Reliance, in her passage from the Cape of Good Hope to Port Jackson, met with uncommon bad weather, which kept her out eleven weeks and one day. About the latitude of 41 degrees S and 77 degrees E longitude, the sea suddenly became violently agitated, and at last broke on board the ship, staving a boat which was over the stern, and doing considerable damage to the ship. Captain Waterhouse, however, landed safely thirty-nine head of black cattle, three mares, and near sixty sheep.

Since the previous report was printed, letters have been received from New South Wales as recently as August 20, 1797. These indicate that His Majesty's ship Reliance, on its journey from the Cape of Good Hope to Port Jackson, encountered unusually bad weather, which delayed it for eleven weeks and one day. Around the latitude of 41 degrees S and 77 degrees E longitude, the sea suddenly became violently rough, eventually crashing onto the ship, damaging a boat that was over the stern, and causing significant damage to the ship itself. Captain Waterhouse, however, successfully landed thirty-nine head of black cattle, three mares, and nearly sixty sheep.

Information was also received through the same channel, that a ship called the Sydney Cove had been fitted out for Port Jackson from Bengal; but springing a leak at sea, she was run ashore on the southernmost part of the coast of New Holland: seventeen of the crew attempted to get to Port Jackson in their long-boat, but were driven on shore, and lost their boat. They then attempted to reach it by land, in which hazardous undertaking only three of them succeeded, the other either dying on the route or being killed by the natives. They were eighty days in performing this journey, and reported that in their way they had found great quantities of coal. This was afterwards confirmed by the surgeon of the Reliance, who went down to the wreck, and brought specimens of it back with him, having found immense strata of this useful article. Some part of the cargo was got on shore and housed where the ship was stranded.

Information was also received through the same channel that a ship called the Sydney Cove had been sent to Port Jackson from Bengal; however, it sprang a leak at sea and was run aground on the southernmost part of the coast of New Holland. Seventeen of the crew tried to reach Port Jackson in their longboat but ended up being pushed ashore and lost their boat. They then attempted to reach it on foot, but in this dangerous journey, only three of them made it, while the others either died along the way or were killed by the locals. They took eighty days to complete this journey and reported finding large amounts of coal. This was later confirmed by the surgeon of the Reliance, who went down to the wreck and brought back samples after discovering huge deposits of this valuable resource. Some of the cargo was salvaged and stored where the ship was stranded.

When these letters left the colony, it continued in as flourishing a state as when the Britannia sailed. May it continue to prosper!

When these letters left the colony, it was still thriving just like it was when the Britannia set sail. May it keep succeeding!

THE END

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AN ACCOUNT OF THE ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW SOUTH WALES: WITH REMARKS ON THE DISPOSITIONS, CUSTOMS, MANNERS, etc. OF THE NATIVE INHABITANTS OF THAT COUNTRY. TO WHICH ARE ADDED, SOME PARTICULARS OF NEW ZEALAND; COMPILED, BY PERMISSION, FROM THE MSS. OF LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR KING.

By DAVID COLLINS, Esquire,

LATE JUDGE ADVOCATE AND SECRETARY OF THE COLONY.

ILLUSTRATED BY ENGRAVINGS.

VOLUME I.

LONDON: PRINTED FOR T. CADELL JUN. AND W. DAVIES, IN THE STRAND.

1798.

PREFACE

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

A VOYAGE TO NEW SOUTH WALES

SECTION I

SECTION II

SECTION III

AN ACCOUNT OF THE ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW SOUTH WALES

CHAPTER I

CHAPTER II

CHAPTER III

CHAPTER IV

CHAPTER V

CHAPTER VI

CHAPTER VII

CHAPTER VIII

CHAPTER IX

CHAPTER X

CHAPTER XI

CHAPTER XII

CHAPTER XIII

CHAPTER XIV

CHAPTER XV

CHAPTER XVI

CHAPTER XVII

CHAPTER XVIII

CHAPTER XIX

CHAPTER XX

CHAPTER XXI

CHAPTER XXII

CHAPTER XXIII

CHAPTER XXIV

CHAPTER XXV

CHAPTER XXVI

CHAPTER XXVII

CHAPTER XXVIII

CHAPTER XXIX

CHAPTER XXX

CHAPTER XXXI

CHAPTER XXXII

CONCLUSION:

APPENDICES

GENERAL REMARKS

APPENDIX 1--GOVERNMENT AND RELIGION

APPENDIX II-STATURE AND APPEARANCE

APPENDIX III--HABITATIONS

APPENDIX IV--MODE OF LIVING

APPENDIX V--COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE

APPENDIX VI--CUSTOMS AND MANNERS

APPENDIX VII--SUPERSTITION

APPENDIX VIII--DISEASES

APPENDIX IX--PROPERTY

APPENDIX X--DISPOSITIONS

APPENDIX XI--FUNERAL CEREMONIES

APPENDIX XII--LANGUAGE

POSTSCRIPT

THE END

AN ACCOUNT OF THE ENGLISH COLONY IN NEW SOUTH WALES:
WITH
REMARKS ON THE DISPOSITIONS, CUSTOMS, MANNERS, etc. OF THE NATIVE INHABITANTS OF THAT COUNTRY.
TO WHICH ARE ADDED,
SOME PARTICULARS OF NEW ZEALAND;
COMPILED, BY PERMISSION,
FROM THE MSS. OF LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR KING.