New South Wales. Colonial Secretary's Office - correspondence, 1803-1810
Safe 1/51

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The papers bound in this volume appear to be part of a collection of official papers connected with Colonial Secretary’s Dept (M.F. 1939 -)

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Sydney New South Wales, May 19th 1803

My Lord
In acknowledging the Receipt of the Separate Letter with Your Despatch No. 2 I beg to express my Thanks for the liberal and candid Manner in which Your Lordship had required an Explanation of some points which I am very desirous Your Lordship should be fully possessed of.

And Altho’ there are many Subjects which will be a Repetition of my former Dispatches, Yet I shall in most places repeat them to leave no means of elucidation unnoticed.

The Expences of this Colony/ altho’ reduced nearly one half to what I found them notwithstanding the additional Numbers arrivd) have ever given me much Cause of anxiety And that no possible mistake might occur, I have detailed those that have been incurr’d And those that would necessary be so in every Letter I have wrote to Your Lordship’s Predecessor And since these to Yourself And that I have used every possible Means to reduce these, I trust will fully appear by a reference to my former despatches And I hope the Savings that have been made and stated, have not escap’d Your Lordship’s Observation. To attain this Object has employed my anxious constant thoughts, and as far as I have succeeded it has cost me every comfortable Consideration in the Colony So necessary has it been to strike at the Interest of those whose Situation required their supporting me, instead of which every Opposite Conduct has been followed by them. But nothing will make me relinquish the plans I have adopted to gain that Object until it is placed out of my Power That plan, My Lord, is fully detailed in my Correspondence with Your Lordship and His Grace the Duke of Portland and further substantiated by my General Orders Copies of which I have always transmitted for Your Lordships information.

Previous to my Arrival and a Short time after there was no stated times for settling the Amount of the Expences, or indeed of fixing the quantity of Government Notes that were in Circulation, as those who held them and wanted to have them consolidated applied to the Commissary the Consequence of which was that the Note given for wheat received in 1795 might not appear for Consolidation before the Year

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1799 which Circumstance made it totally impossible to ascertain the Years Expences or the funds liable to be drawn for on the Treasury. As soon as I discovered the irregularity of this proceeding, I directed that every Public Account whatever should be settled once a Quarter And that no retrospect should be had after that date expired. To enforce this, I gave the Commissary a written order and one or two who have lost by not attending to that Order, has established the Practice; So that at the end of each Quarter, every Account is settled with those who hold Government Receipts for Grain or for any other Consideration. The Copy of the Order I enclose as well as one of the Wheat Receipts, together with three weekly Returns which I receive from the Storekeeper at Sydney, Parramatta and the Hawkesbury as a Check on the Commissary. At the End of the Quarter, these Returns and Wheat Receipts are compared with the Commissary’s Quarterly Statement and after he has deducted what is due to Government for Articles exchanged from the Stores, or other public Considerations, the remainder is paid by Bills on the Treasury, which generally fall into the hands of Mr Campbell, or Masters of Ships that bring Articles for Sale previous to my Approval of those Bills, they are entered at full with their respective Vouchers in a Book kept by me for that particular purpose. The purchases from Masters of Ships when they are necessary on the public Account are conducted in the same Manner By which arrangement Your Lordship will perceive the great Advantage of having all Money and Store concerns regulated at the end of every Quarter without any back Claims to adjust.

With all my dispatches and not to confound different Objects, I have always made a separate Letter marked A the Subject of the different Expences incurred during the Quarter or Quarters past the preceding Year that the Annual Accounts have

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been made up by the Commissary and transmitted To that Letter has always been added an Original Voucher for each Expence And an Abstract of the Monies drawn for containing the Service it is required for And every other Information which I consider absolutely necessary to transmit. These Documents have never been omitted to be sent in any of my Dispatches, and as I presume they are all in Your Lordships Office (as I have generally sent Duplicates) I shall now proceed to offer my Observation on Your Lordships Remark viz “Bills amounting to the Sum of £10460 2 10 ¾ drawn by Commissary Palmer between the 31st of March and 3d July 1801 upon the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury I have already recommended to be paid upon Account the Remainder of the Bills which it appears by Your Letter to the Duke of Portland You have authorised the Commissary to draw have not as yet been referred to me”. On first reading the above Paragraph And referring to my Cheque Book, It appeard to me that some Successful Forgeries had been practiced. But as there may probably be an Error in the dates Your Lordship has noted, I make myself easy under the existing facts And what I now respectfully offer to Your Lordships Observation on that Head. The enclosed Extract of my Letter A dated August 21st 1801 which it appears Your Lordship has received And the enclosed Copy from my Cheque Book together with the Commissary’s Account of Bills drawn not only during that period But also from the time I took the Command Sept 28th 1800 up to this date, I hope will satisfy Your Lordship that in either period Stated, not more than £ 7267.0.1 was drawn for by Commissary Palmer which Sum included a half Years purchase of Grain and £1496.17.1 worth of indispensable Stores And by a Reference to the List of Bills drawn it will be observed that from the 1st January 1801 to the last Bill drawn in the Year, the whole of the Contingent Expences for that period that is the Year 1801 does not exceed £10232.3.6. That this Explanation may be satisfactory for Your Lordship I am and

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shall remain extremely anxious to be informed of And I hope it has already been fully anticipated by the Receipt of my Dispatch No. 6 to the Duke of Portland. In its Separate Letter A, a Copy of which I have the honor to enclose, wherein I trust Your Lordship will not only discover my economical exactness but also my very unpopular exertions to diminish the Expences which I have no hesitation in asserting were decreased at least £ 14,000 during the first Year of my taking the Command Your Lordship will readily conceive that supplying the Additional Numbers that arrived here the two last Years could create an additional Expence for Wheat purchased and Salt Meat to supply them which has been by no Means equal to their Number and the debilitated state many of them now remain in What those Expences have amounted to annually, Your Lordship will observe by the Documents already Noticed, And those which have since been forwarded Together with the Abstract of the Commissary’s Annual Accounts for the last Year(1802) which I forward by this Conveyance to Your Lordship that for 1801 having been forwarded by Captain McKellar.

Notwithstanding every exertion, I have made, and am still making Yet there are several Causes why the Expence within the Colony may not decrease so rapidly as might be wished – In the present State of the Settlement I have detailed many of the Causes which I shall not intrude on Your Lordships patience otherways than by a reference to the parts of these Documents they allude to.

Before I quit this Subject, I have to request a reference may be had to the accompanying Duplicate of my Letter No 1 for an Account of the Manner in which the Articles sent for Sale are disposed of, and will on to the Commissary’s Annual Accounts now sent. I might indeed refer Your Lordship to every dispatch I have wrote Your Noble Predecessor on this as well as every other head of Duty and Economy under my Management and Control which, with my General Orders, are the most unequivocal

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Proofs of what my Conduct has been And by what Motives it has been guided.

Your Lordship’s Instructions respecting the Mode of drawing Bills shall be conformed to, And Your Lordship will observe that both in the Commissary’s list and Mine of Bills drawn, the form now prescribed is adhered to And altho’ it has been necessary to preserve the Original running Number, Yet the Annual Numerical Numbers are now placed thro’ each Year – Exclusive of the Letter of Advice attached to each Bill, I have directed the Commissary, to inform the Treasury by every Opportunity the Bills go by, of the particulars thereof, under the Several Heads Your Lordship States - By every Dispatch I have sent Your Lordship and the Duke of Portland (as I have before observed) a Separate Letter A has accompanied it And the Explanation has been made therein of the necessity of drawing those Bills and a Voucher has been regularly Sent, together with every other Elucidation respecting our contingent Expences within the Colony.

According to Your Lordship’s direction, I have made the enquiry respecting the two Bills drawn by Mr Palmer in favour of Mr Stewart and Mr Campbell and have the honor to enclose his Explanation thereof, which it corroborated by his List of Bills drawn And my check thereon now Sent.

The information Your Lordship required being given to Lieutenant Governor Foveaux, I have communicated, by sending him Copies of those Paragraphs that allude to him As well as such other parts of those Letters as require his Observance and which I have required him to conform to if he possibly can by the Glattons return.

Your Lordship’s remarks respecting the internal State of the Settlement, as far as related immediately to its Cultivation Produce and Livestock, becomes the next Object of Consideration. Soon after my Arrival here in July 1800 before Governor Hunter quitted the Colony I took a Muster of every description of Inhabitants at the different

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Settlements. This I have repeated every Year about the Month of August as the most convenient time, being the interval between Seed time and Harvest. The Results of all which were sent by the Conveyances, and with the Letter as per Margin and have been more particularly detailed in the “present State of the Settlements” for 1801 And that now sent for 1802 Also the detailed returns made only nearly on Your Lordship’s plan (if not more extended). As stated in the enclosed Extract from my Letter No 6 to the Duke of Portland. And the similar Returns made up to my last General Muster in August 1802 which went with the original and now goes with the Duplicate of My Last Letters to your Lordship. If I have time before the Glatton sails it shall be transmitted according to Your Lordships wish, which shall be observed in future. And returns sent twice a Year The Acres cultivated and Stock belonging to the Crown have also been invariably made the Subject of a Separate Return with every dispatch And have been more particularly alluded to in the Yearly “Present State of the Settlement” as well as constantly occupying a large Portion of any General Letter.

Respecting the Manner in which the Convicts are disposed of, I have to beg Your Lordship’s reference to the paragraph of my different Letters stated in the Margin as well as to the General Orders issued on these Heads, to which documents I beg to intrude a General List of all the Returns of the General Statement of the Inhabitants which have accompanied each Dispatch respectively Since I first took the Command.

In those Returns Your Lordship will observe in the Column headed “People not victualled from the Stores” that Number comprises every person whether they are assigned to Settlers or allowed to get their own Maintenance. The Numbers of each are distinguished in the present State of the Settlement in page 12 for 1801 and Page 10 for 1802 which goes with this. The aggregate Number of full Rations not victualled from the Stores or of any Expences to Government by the last Return is 3429 which at £20 a head, must

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be considered a Saving of £68,580.

I have in my present General Letter and former dispatches informed Your Lordship of the Act by which Captn McArthur deprived Government of Major Foveaux’s Flock of Sheep. However, they are in the Colony and will thrive; and Government is saved the Expense of about £3000 which has equally if not more advantageously gone towards paying for the Breeding Cows from Bengal. Respecting Mr Balmain’s flock, I have noticed it in my Letter A.

Was there that Mixture of Character in New South Wales that there is in every other Society, Your Lordship’s Ideas of distributing a certain proportion of the Breeding Stock among such of the Settlers as may be inclined to purchase would be attended with the best Effects and Indeed I have for some time past seen the policy of it so much, that some of them have been thus disposed of for wheat, as Your Lordship will observe by the Annual Return of Stock belonging to Government Sent with the Dispatch. However, such is the Art of some few monopolizing Monsters in this Colony, that if a very cautious Selection was not made of the Settlers in whose favour the Stock is thus alienated it would soon find its way to the Herds of one or two people. I have several Applications now before me of those who wish to exchange Grain for Breeding Stock, But it will require some time and observation to select proper people to extend that indulgence to.

Having given Your Lordship, I trust a satisfactory Account of the Information You require, I have only to assure you My Lord that every endeavour has been and will be persevered in by me to reduce the Expences of this Colony as much as possible And in doing which I have no doubt of Your Lordships paying that attention to my Correspondence and different Returns which will set all those transactions in their proper light.

I have the honor to be, with the greatest Respect &c
Right Honorable Lord Hobart &c &c &c

(signed)

Philip Gidley King

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Copy of a Letter from Governor King to Lord Hobart in answer to Letter No 2 dated August 1802.

Par 4 Reasons for and mode of settling all Public Accounts quarterly – Weekly & quarterly – weekly & quarterly returns from Deputy Commissary – a check or Commissary – Mode of regulating – Payments for income discharge of Government Debts and payment of Stores purchased.

5 References to former Letters A respecting Vouchers & regularly made and sent. Explanation of Expenses of the Colony to May 1803 with Commissary’s List of Bills drawn

6 Reference to Letter No 1 dated ……………………..stating how Annual Supplies have been Disposed of

8 Addition to prescribed Mode of drawing Bills by keeping annual Numbers and [indecipherable] Lists to Secretary of State and Treasury.

11. Reference former Yearly General Musters transmitted and Compliance with Lord Hobart’s Terms in future.

12. & 13 Reference to Employment Lists for distribution and Employment of Convicts at Public Labour and victualled from the Stores. Also people not victualled from the Stores & consequent Savings.

15. Respecting the direction to alienate a part of the public Stock.

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Downing Street, June 24th – 1809

Sir,

Herewith I transmit to you, under a Flying Seal, a Despatch which I have written to Governor King directing Him to take the necessary steps for the removal of a Part of the Establishment now under your Command to Port Dalrymple in Van Dieman’s Land; and, as I am anxious that this measure should be carried into Effect with as little Delay as possible after the Governor shall have Invoices and sent to Norfolk Island, the Ships requisite for the execution of the Service given you. the opportunity of perusing my Despatch before you forward it to Governor King, the Whaler by which it is sent being intended to touch only at Norfolk Island but not to proceed to Port Jackson. You will therefore take the earliest opportunity that may occur of forwarding my Despatch to Port Jackson and you will lose no time in preparing such of the Settlers who may be disposed to remove to Port Dalrymple or the other new Settlements upon the terms pointed out to Governor King

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for their Embarkation, together with the Convicts and such part of the Military Detachment as the Governor may direct.

You will x x x perceive that it is His Majesty’s Pleasure, that Lieut Col. Paterson should proceed to the proposed Colony and that you should return to Head Quarters, where you will, in Col. Paterson’s absence, execute the Duties of Lieutenant Governor, as you will continue to enjoy the appointments you have hitherto received in Norfolk Island.

I am Sir
Your Most Obedient humble Servant
(signed) S Hobart

P.S. The circular Letters [indecipherable] to Governor King are sent under Flying Seals for your perusal.

A true Copy of the Original
J. Foveaux

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Copy of Letter from the Right Honorable Lord Hobart to Lieut. Colonel Foveaux

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Sundays excluded in caulking the ship thro’out
Names – Quantity – To what ship belonging – Time Completed – No of days Empld - Rate per day – Sum due to each Man – To whom paid – How Employed

Chas Griffen – Caulker – Porpoise – 18 Feby to 7 May – 68 – 1/6 - £5.2.0. – C Griffin – Caulking the Ship thro’out

Chu Nelson – Caulker – Porpoise – 18 Feby to 7 May – 68 – 1/6 - £ 5.2.0 John Nelson – Caulking the Ship thro’out

Willlm Strange – Pitch boiler – Porpoise – 18 Feby to 7 May – 68 1/6 £ 5.2.0. – X Strange his mark – Pitch boiler

£15.6.0.

These are to certify the Honorable Principal Officers Commissioners of His Majesty’s Navy that the above Artificers were actually employed on board of His Majesty’s said [indecipherable] Vessel Porpoise in Caulking the Ship thr’out and boiling Pitch, and they were paid the Sum of fifteen pounds Six Shillings sterling agreeable to the general Custom of allowance of His Majesty’s Navy for such Work done which sum was paid in my presence by John Palmer Esquire, Commissary of His Majesty’s Territory of New South Wales. Approved Philip Gidley King

Given under my hand on board of His Majesty’s said tim’d Vessel in Sydney Cove, New South Wales, this 7th day of May 1803.

Wm. Scott Acting Lieut and Commander in his Majesties’ Navy that the above Artificers

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Voucher for ?15.6.0

May 7th 1803

[dispose of this page]

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Memorandum

You are hereby required and directed to pay Mr. David Bevan, Auctioneer, his Commission, for selling sundry Goods, condemn’d provision & Articles of Shop Clothing by Public Auction at Hawkesbury on the 27th & 30th Inst taking Care &c
For which this &c
PGK
Government House
31st Decr 1805
Sign’d &c

Bill By &c &c
You are &c to purchase of Mr Robt. Campbell the underment’d Spirits for the Use of the Colony – Viz.
Spirits - 582 Gallons –
Taking care & For which & Given &c 31 Decr 1805
Signed

Bill By &c
31 Decr 1805
You are &c to purchase of Mr Robt. Campbell the underment’d
Sugar for the Use of the Colony – to issue as a part of the Ration – viz.
Sugar – 4130 lbs
Taking care & For which & Given & 31 Decr 1805
Sign’d &

4th Decr 1805 By &c
You are hereby req’d & directed to purchase of Mr Robt. Campbell 855 Gunney Bags for the Use of the Colony & pay him for the Frieght [sic] of the Sophia for conveying 33 women & the underment provisions and Stores to the Derwent – viz
Vinegar – 40 Gallons – Pork 109 Tierces – 18/16 Ton
Flour – 4 Ton and 14 Cwt – Steel 500 lbs – Sugars ton 7.3.0 Cwt. 3Qu., taking care & For which & Given & 4th Decr 1805.

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6 Feby 1806 By &
You are & of Mr. Wm Richardson, Master of the American Ship Eliza, the underment’d Spirits for the Use of the Colony, to issue to Colonial Vessels &
Spirits – 800 Gallons –
Taking care & For which & Given under &
6th Feby 1806 – Signed &

6th Feby 1806 By &
You are hereby & to purchase of Mr S. Lord the underment’d Spirits purchased of Mr Wm Richardson, Master of the American Ship Eliza to make good the Deficiency for 12 months allowed to the Military at Port Dalrymple &c the Derwent viz
Spirits 1234 Gallons –
Taking Care & For which & Given &
6th Feby 1806
Signed &c

Bill By &c
31 March 1806
You are & to purchase of Mr Robt. Campbell and Co the underment Sugar for the Use of the Colony to Issue as a part of the Ration.
Sugar – 6703 lbs
Taking Care & For which & Given &
Sign’d 31 Mar: 1806

31 Mar:1806 By &
You are & to purchase of Mr David Bevan the underment. Nails & Hoop Iron for the Use of the Colony viz
22000 Batten Nails – 14,000 Flooring Ds
448 Pounds or 7 bundles of Hoop Iron –
taking Care & For which & Given & 31 March 1850
Sign’d

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New South Wales
May 31st 1803
His Majesty’s Armed Vessel Porpoise
To John Palmer Esq, Commissary

To 100 Yards of cloth – at 5/9 per yard – 28
To 100 blankets 7/4 – at 15/5 per Pair – 38
To 150 shirts – at 4/9 ea – 35
To 150 Pair Stockings at 1/5 per Pair –10
To 100 Pair Shoes at 6/8 pr – 33.6
To 275 yards Duck –at 2/3 per yard – 30.10
£177 16 shillings

Received this Thirty first Day of May One thousand eight hundred and three of John Palmer Esq Commissary One Set of Bills of Exchange on Commissioner of His Majesty’s Slop Office at Ninety day’s sight for the [sum] of one Hundred and Seventy Seven Pounds Sixteen Shillings and Threepence Sterling being payment for the above Pursers Stores.

For which I have Signed Five Receipts of this Time and Date
Jno. Palmer, Commissary

We the undersigned do hereby certify that the prices affixed against each Article are the same as have been sold to the Inhabitants
Rd Atkins [indecipherable]
Thos [indecipherable]

I do herby certify that the above Articles were supplied His Majesty’s Armed Vessel Porpoise by John Palmer Esq Commissary from His majesty’s Stores and Coromandels Investment and that the same are charged at the prices the said Articles were disposed of to the Civil Military and Settlers agreeable to the orders received from the Secretary of State for the Colonies and that this Bill is to pay for part of the Grain Purchased for the June Quarter 1803.
Philip Gidley King

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We do hereby Certify that the within mentioned Slop Clothing were [indecipherable] on Board His Majesty’s Armed Vessel Porpoise in kind and that [it is g]ood and fit for His Majesty’s service.
Geo. Lodge Master
Thomas James

Voucher for Shop Clothing supplied His Majesty’s Armed Vessel Porpoise May 31, 1803

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Sydney, Port Jackson
Septr 17, 1804

Sirs,
I have received yours of the 10th Ultimo by the Integrity which arrived here the 1st Instant.

I observe by the return of the Form I sent to be filled up that on the 15th July 41 Settlers by Grant or Lease wished to remove to Port Dalrymple, among whom there were 22 who you conceive have a greater Claim than the others who are also Industrious and may make good Settlers.

What is meant by Dead Stock I conceive to be Ploughs, Carts, Timber Carriages, Hoes, Spades &.

As those Settlers who are still inclined to remove object to that measure until next January when their Crops are got in, I can have no objection to comply with so reasonable a wish, and I hope before that period to receive & transmit some Accounts from Port Dalrymple.

As Whitehouse & Fletcher went to Norfolk Island before I received the Minister’s Instructions and considering that they were there; & might be useful among those who remained; I signified that I had no objection “If they chose to occupy any of the vacated Lots”. But such occupancy could only be with your Verbal Possession as no Second Grant can be given, or the old Grant transferred when the Surrender is made. You will therefore inform them of this Circumstance; as no more Grants of Land can be given on the Island. It is optional with them to return here or go to Port Dalrymple – Fletcher may be useful to himself and Government in that place as a Stone Mason.

His Honor Lieut: Governor Foveaux or the Commanding Officer, Norfolk Island.

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If Martin Tims wishes to go to Port Dalrymple as a Superintendant I shall readily appoint him & also recommend him to do the Duty of Provost Marshall when there may be occasion. I have no objection to Robert Jones being retained in the situation as Superintendant and to have Charge of the Government Stock.

I haveis Majesty’s Armed Vessel Porpoise May 31, 1803
to request you will deliver the enclosed Letters which I have left open for your perusal to the Superceded Commissary, Mr Clark & Mr Broughton will remain in Charge of the Stores, as Store-Keeper on the appointment of £50 a Year.

This Reduction will take place on the Investigator or any other Ships arrival to execute this Service which I hope will be in the course of next Month. Should any of the Settlers holding Ground by Grant or Lease wish to return by that Ship before January for the purpose of going to Port Dalrymple or any other Settlement: the Commander will have my Orders to receive them. The Stock they leave as Provided for in my Letter of the 20th July, on its being Certified by you shall be replaced here, as well as such Grain, Tools and Agricultural Implements as they may deliver over to the Store-keeper at Norfolk.

I observe that your present Reduced Ration to the Military is 7lbs. of Fresh Pork which I consider a full Treasury Ration of that Species. Your Idea of the proportion of Mutton to Fresh Pork may be correct for my own part I am guided by accustomed Regulations on that head. However should you conceive the proportion of 5lbs insufficient for 7 lbs You are at liberty to issue the proportion of 7 lbs from the Keepers of Government Stock, but not to take any from Individuals while the Price exceeds that of Fresh Pork.

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You will direct the Two Subalterns and the Military who the Commanding Officer here may point out to you to hold themselves in readiness to return to this place by the Ship that will be sent for them, as well as the Prisoners whose names are inserted in the Enclosed List. In making out which, I have endeavoured to select most of the worst Characters as well as some others. Should any very obnoxious characters remain who you wish to have removed, on your pointing them out by the Investigator’s return, they will be sent for – And if there are any Women attached to those in the above List I have no objection to their accompanying them hither.

I am much concerned that the Vaccine Matter sent by the Endeavour has failed but I hope that sent by the Integrity will succeed.

The Six Free pardons you requested are sent to which I have added at your request also, James Davis & Gunns Nuby. The conditional Emancipations for Gilmore and Richard Burne, I shall cause to be made out and sent by another Conveyance.

I am sorry that the Albion had left this before I received your Letter by the Integrity, and regret the necessity you feel yourself under on account of your Ill health to leave the Island before the Instructions respecting it are carried into Effect.

I request that a Correct Account of all the Provisions Stores & other Effects belonging to government on Norfolk Island on the 30th last June may be transmitted to me by the Investigator.

It was my intention to have sent some Bedding & by the Adonis if she had gone direct, but as the Master intends to Whale, their receipt may be deferred & may be eventually damaged.

[signed] Philip Gidley King

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By the Lieutenant Governor
Capt Withers

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New South Wales
Know all Men by these Presents, that I, James Georgeson, Master of the Ship Ann whereof Wm Roach Junr is Owner of the Port of New Bedford – are held and firmly bound by these Presents unto His Majesty, and His Officers holding Places of Trust and Responsibility at Home and Abroad in any part of the British Dominions: and to the Honorable English East India Company and their Officers as aforesaid, at any Place within the Honorable Company’s Territories in the penal Sum of Eight Hundred Pounds Sterling. And we, Simeon Lord and D.D. Mann of Sydney are held and firmly bound, jointly with the said James Georgeson in the Sum of One Hundred Pounds Sterling: For which Payment well and truly to be made we find ourselves, our Heirs, Executors and Administrators, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals: Dated this 16th Day of May in the Year of Our Lord 1805.

The condition of this Obligation is such, that if the above-bounden James Georgson on his Departure from this Territory does not receive on board any Person, whatever may be his or her situation or degree, without a Certificate from the GOVERNOR of this Territory, the Lieutenant Governor, or Officer in Command for the time being; or the Lieutenant Governor, Commandant, or Officer in Command of any Settlement dependant on the Government of this Territory: Nor suffer his said Vessel to depart from hence without Ten Days previous Notice to the Secretary’s Office, Then this Obligation to be void and of no Effect, or else to return in full Force and Virtue.

Signed and Sealed in the Presence of )
) James [indecipherable]
S. Lord.

[indecipherable] S. Lord

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James Georgeson – Ship – Ann

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New South Wales
Know all Men by these Presents, that I, Austin Forrest, Master of the Ship Sydney, whereof Campbell & Co are Owners of the Port of Calcutta, are held and firmly bound by these Presents unto His Majesty, and his Officers holding Places of Trust and Responsibility at Home and Abroad in any Part of the British Dominions: and to the Honorable English East India company and their Officers as aforesaid, at any Place within the Honorable Company’s Territories, in the penal Sum of Eight Hundred Pounds Sterling. And we, John Palmer and William Stewart, of Sydney are held and firmly bound, jointly with the said Austin Forrest in the Sum of One Hundred Pounds Sterling: For which Payment well and truly to be made we bind ourselves, our Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals: Dated this 22nd Day of April in the Year of Our Lord 1805.

The Condition of this obligation is such, that if the above-bounden Austin Forrest on his Departure from this Territory does not receive on board any Person, whatever may be his or her situation or degree, without a Certificate from the GOVERNOR of this Territory, the Lieutenant Governor, or Officer in Command for the time being; or the Lieutenant Governor, Commandant, or Officer in Command of any Settlement dependent on the Government of this Territory: Nor suffer his said Vessel to depart from hence without Ten Days previous Notice to the Secretary’s Office. Then this obligation to be void and of no Effect; or else to remain in full Force and Virtue.

Signed and Sealed in the Presence of : Austin Forrest
G. Blaxcell, Jnr Palmer, [indecipherable]

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22 April
Austin Forrest, Ship Sydney

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New South Wales
Know all Men by these Presents, that I, John Calder, Master of the Venus Schooner whereof Messrs Campbell & Co are Owners of the Port of Calcutta are held and firmly bound by these Presents unto His Majesty, and his officers holding Places of Trust and Responsibility at Home and Abroad in any Part of the British Dominions: and to the Honorable English East India Company and their Officers as aforesaid, at any Place within the Honorable Company’s Territories, in the penal sum of Eight Hundred Pounds Sterling. And we, John Palmer and Willm Stewart of Sydney, are held and firmly bound, jointly with the said John Calder in the Sum of One Hundred Pounds Sterling: For which Payment well and truly to be made we bind ourselves, our Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals: Dated this ninth Day of May in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and five.

The Condition of this Obligation is such, that if the above-bounden John Calder on his Departure from this Territory does not receive on board any Person, whatever may be his or her situation or degree, without a Certificate from the GOVERNOR of this Territory, the Lieutenant Governor, or Officer in Command for the time being; or the Lieutenant Governor, Commandant, or Officer in Command of any Settlement dependent on the Government of this Territory: Nor suffer his said Vessel to depart from hence without Ten Days previous Notice to the Secretary’s Office, then this Obligation to be void and of no effect; or else to remain in full Force and Virtue.
Signed and Sealed in the Presence of ) John Calder
) Jn Palmer
[indecipherable] ) Wllm Stewart

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John Calder – Venus Schooner

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Sydney New South Wales
April 16 1804

Sir,
In Consequence of Instructions received by me from My Lord Hobart Dated February 24th 1803 to procure a Supply of Breeding Cattle for the Public Use of His Majesty’s Settlement under your Command I have made the enclosed agreement with Mr Robert Campbell, for the Delivery of a Certain Number of Cows at Sullivan Cove from the Lady Barlow Captain McAskill for which purpose Mr Campbell had Used every endeavour to Cause that Vessel to be met with in the [indecipherable], that no detention may be made in delivering you the Cattle as soon as possible.

Five Receipts from the Deputy Commissary approved by you for the Numbers Landed agreeable to the tenor of the enclosed agreement will be Sufficient Vouchers for warranting the Commissary General to make Payment by my Order.

If the Lady Barlow should be already arrived and you have made any agreement or [indecipherable] with the Master you will Observe by the it is to Stand good and In that Case I Request you will transact the Payment yourself.

I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your most Obedient, Humble Servant,
Philip Gidley King

His Honor
Lieut Governor Collins, N.S.W.

[Page 30]

Respecting the [indecipherable] by the Lady Barlow
April 1804

[Page 31]

Sydney New South Wales
30 April 1805

Sir,

By the Harrington I received yours of the 10th February and am glad it was in your power to issue a full Ration so soon after the Reduction.

The account you give of the Settlers Harvest is satisfactory after the Report we had here of its failure. I hope you have had a Share of the heavy Rains fallen here which may bring about your Maize on which fattening the Swine so much depends.

I am much gratified at the dispositions you made on perceiving St Athenienne’s Convoy and cannot but approve of the Stock and Refreshments you sent to those Ships.

It is a circumstance highly satisfactory that the Cow pox has succeeded so fully. It might be adviseable to intimate to the Surgeon the necessity of inoculating only a few Children so as to keep a constant supply of the Vaccine Matter.

I observe your requisition respecting an Authority to draw for the Amount of the purchases made on behalf of the Crown from July 1st to December 31st last amounting to £ 886.17.5 for which I enclose the necessary Directions.

By this Conveyance I have directed the

Captain John Piper
Commandant
Norfolk Island

[Page 32]

Commissary to send a proportion of what Slops we have as well as Iron and other Articles with some Stationary which I think may be acceptable, and am sorry the low State of all kind of Stores does not admit of my sending you a greater Supply.

Respecting the Goats I approve of your intentions on that Head.

I cannot help signifying my disapprobation of the Spirits being landed from the American Ship Union without a Letter being produced from me, which regulation had obtained at Norfolk Island in former Instances of that kind, and an still more surprized at the very high price the proprietor was allowed to charge, ie Nineteen Shillings a Gallon for which a similar quality was sold here at Nine Shillings including the Duty – That masters of Ships, may not be ignorant of the Instructions I have found it necessary to give in that behalf, I have directed the General Order of the 10th Instant to be published in the Gazette of that date and must require a strict observance of its tenor by you in future Cases of a similar Kind.

The provisions you exchanged with the Master of the Independence American Vessel for Iron was very right, but I must repeat the necessity of the Americans not being allowed to ship British Subjects for the purpose of carrying on the Fishery which advantage ought to be confined to those of our own Nation, – particularly during Time of War – As a Guide to your Conduct in this particular I send you the General Order on that subject which I request my be entered in your Order books – And altho’ all those who have served their

[Page 33]

Terms of Transportation are at
liberty to leave the Island in any English Vessel direct for Europe or India and not coming here, yet as the Kings Subjects, they are not to be allowed to go in the Vessels of Foreigners during the Time of War except in particular Cases of Distress.

In addition to the observations in different parts of your Letter respecting the Reduction of the Settlement at Norfolk Island I have received Letters forwarded in your Box from Three of the old Marine Settlers

[in margin: The answers I request you will communicate to them]

– Two others have come over in the Investigator And some of that description holding Land which they have purchased from the original Grantees or who cultivate Land without any right of possession.

Respecting the Civil Establishment if now Stands thus, as directed by my Letter to Colonel Foveaux of the 20th July last.

Commandant
Deputy Judge Advocate
Clergyman
Surgeon
Storekeeper
One Superintendant
Beach Master and pilot.

Of this Establishment I shall give the Secretary of State and Colonial Agent official Notice. – By the General Orders of the 4th March, you will observe that I have named you Commandant of Norfolk Island, and herewith enclose you my Appointment – The Commissary will be directed to make you half yearly payments on you Commissioning some person to receive it, but if I do not get your official Letters before the expiration of the half Year it cannot be paid until I possess that Document.

[Page 34]

In my Letter of the 20th January I ammended the old marine Settlers Berrisford and Stanfield as having large Families to remain where they were, rather than to begin the World anew – but it never could be considered that this recommendation precluded them from removing or implied any Idea of their being on any other footing than they are at present if they remained – nor should I have offered that recommendation had it not been to counteract a belief the Settlers had that the Island was to be totally evacuated, and the uncertainty respecting the Soil and local Advantage of Port Dalrymple which were not then ascertained – as every stage of the Information on those heads have been published by myself Colonel Foveaux or yourself it appears extraordinary that they should not only misapprehend those Orders and Communications but write and some are come here with Ideas totally different from what those documents conveyed namely Lieutenant Governor Foveaux’s General Order of may 8th 1804 which fully expressed the Terms on which the Removals were to be made, and my confirmation of the same by my General Orders of July 20th. The intention respecting the Rivers Hunter and paterson in Newcastle being done away by the favourable reports since then received from Colonel paterson which have been communicated to the Settlers by you. However that no further misunderstanding may occur, I have sent another printed Notice which you will explain to the Settlers at large which I think is sufficiently clear to preclude any misconception. And leave them to their own free Choice either to remain where they are or to remove on the Terms specified in those Documents.

I have directed the Commander of the Lady

[Page 35]

Nelson to receive on board such Settlers who may be disposed to remove and as the Vessel can conveniently take, but if there should not be sufficient Number to compleat those who can come by that conveyance, you will send as many of the Soldiers as were left by the Investigator that could not be received on board that Ship. [in the margin – I wish a preference to be given the Soldiers in the Lady Nelson & Integrity.] If the Soldiers and Settlers should not all come by the Lady Nelson and you have an opportunity of making a reasonable bargain with the Master of any Whaler or other Vessel coming here to bring any of these people and their Families you are at Liberty to do so.

Should there by any Freemen of exemplary good Character holding Ground by a purchased Grant – I have no objection to their being sent but I think that should be done with much circumspection – great Care should be taken that the Surrenders are made as pointed out by the letter you will receive with this from Mr Williams – the whole Grant must be surrendered and not a part of it.

I request you will inform Mr Broughton that the Reduction of the Civil and other Establishments at Norfolk Island precludes me from appointing any other than a Storekeeper for that place.

Whenever you have it in your power to send any Salt Meat to this place It will be necessary that every Cask should be examined and the damaged Meat taken out of it and Surveyed, and the good repacked for which purpose some Brine is sent with what Salt we have in Store. It has been suggested that the Salt made here will not preserve the Meat – this the experience of the Island must enable you to be the best Judge – I am sorry that the whole quantity of Salt we possess does not exceed that now sent – No opportunity shall be lost

[Page 36]

in sending you that necessary Article. I hope no stop will be put to your causing as much as possible being made on the Island. The two hundred pounds you now have in the Store of the Salt sent by the Betsey and Francis, with that which goes now I hope will cure all the Meat you can procure this Winter.

Whenever Prisoners are sent from Norfolk Island to this place it will be necessary to transmit an account to the Judge Advocate whether they have incurred any recent Sentence either by the Criminal Court or a Bench of Justices.

Whenever you can assure yourself of any Whaler that may touch at Norfolk Island going direct off the North East Coast of New Zealand with the probability of touching soon at the Bay of Islands – and the Master of the Vessel is willing to undertake that Charge, You will put on board from Ten to Twenty Sows and a sufficient number of Boars to be given to the most powerful Chief or person in the place they may touch at for the express purpose of Breeding at the same time putting on board a sufficient quantity of Maize and Bran for their support, but in carrying this Object into execution you will of course consider the confidence you can place in the person you give that charge to:

I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obed Humble Servant
Philip Gidley King

[Page 37]

Sydney Port Jackson
January 6th 1805

Sir,
By the Experiment I hope you received my Letters of the 14th September and October the 7th last.

On the Investigator’s arrival you will cause the following discharges to be made on the Civil Establishment of the Island, agreeable to my Letter to Lieutenant Governor Foveaux of the 20th July last.
(Vizd)

Deputy Commissary, Provost Marshall, Boat Builder, Master Carpenter, Two Superintendants & Depy Surveyor.

You will also send by the Investigator the Two Subalterns, and 50 Soldiers directed by Major Johnson - Also 50 Convicts as pointed out in the List sent by the Experiment – Nathaniel Lucas and his Family, with such Settlers as Lieut Houston may be able to receive on board who may be inclined to remove to Port Dalrymple, from whence I have received a favorable report.

Mr Williams must go to Port Dalrymple, or resign his Situation.

The Service will not admit of Mr Wentworth being removed from Norfolk Island for the present.

If Harlin Tims chooses to go to Port Dalrymple on the terms mentioned in my letter of the 11th September; he can come by the Investigator and Col. Paterson will readily receive him.

I am much concerned to find that

To the Officer
Administering the Government of
Norfolk Island

[Page 38]

notwithstanding Lieut: Governor Foveaux’s Conduct in sending Ships away that carried Spirits from hence to Norfolk, which did not produce Letters from me, and my directions to him on that head; That you permitted Boston the Supercargo of the Union to dispose of the Spirits he was not allowed to Sell here. But also suffering men to be taken from the Island. If you had seen the Sydney Gazette of the ......... which went from hence in the Albion. It is therefore my positive Orders, that when any Vessel touches at Norfolk Island from hence, that no intercourse whatever otherways than relieving their distress, be had with such Ship or Vessel, unless the Master produces Letters from the Governor of this Settlement, and that you do not on any account, allow any British Subject to enter on board any Foreign Vessel, without it appears very satisfactorily to you, that such Vessel is absolutely distressed for men to carry her to the nearest Port.

I request you will supply the Investigator with such a proportion of Fat or thriving [indecipherable] as can be spared from the Government Stock taking the Commanders Receipt for them.

From the unfavourable Reports that have circulated here respecting your Wheat, I have directed some to be sent, of which the Commissary sends an Invoice.

I have directed the Commissary to send all the Colonial Blanketting [in margin – 269 yards] that remains, for the use of those at Public Labour, who are in want thereof.

Since writing the former part of the Letter, I have received Letters from Lieut: Governor Paterson which renders the enclosed Notice necessary to be Published in Norfolk Island, which I request may be done, and the necessary Measures taken, but I would by no means wish any Settlers of Worthless

[Page 39]

Character to be selected for Port Dalrymple, or sent by the Investigator.

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most Obedient Humble Servant
Philip Gidley King

[Page 40]

Febry 12th per the Investigator

[Page 41]

Sydney New South Wales
18th August 1805

Sir,
1 On the 30th Ult I received yours of 3rd Ult by the Lady Nelson – as the arrival of the Buffalo for the express purpose of taking such Settlers as may wish to remove may probably induce others to go, I leave the Approval or Rejection of those who signify that Wish to your Judgment but I request that no other Terms may be hinted or promised than those mentioned in the different Notices that have been published. - It will be advisable for those who do remove to take their Agricultural Tools with them as well as their other Conveniencies, this Colony and Port Dalrymple being very bare of those Articles. They may also take such Quantity of Wheat, Maize and Stock as Captain Houstoun may be able to receive when he knows the Number of persons and Quantity of Things they wish to take, in which I am confident he will do his utmost to accommodate them.

2 I have received Guests Application which is farther recommended by your Approval. The Object is the Appropriation of his large Stock, which I observe consists of 600 Ewes and 342 Wethers, 400 Bushels of Maize and 100 Bushels of Wheat. Respecting his Ewes I have no objection to letting 100 full grown prime ones remain in Government Flock at the valuation of Thirty Shillings each to be replaced in Cows at Port Dalrymple at £ 25 each, being the last Contract price – and I think Captain Houstoun will

John Piper Esqr
&c &c &c

[Page 42]

be able to take on Board One hundred or as many as he can receive to carry for Guest to Port Dalrymple – The remaining Ewes say 400 will therefore lay on his Hands, But if he will be at the risk of their arriving here safe for every full grown Ewe more than Six Months old the commissary will pay him Thirty Shillings when delivered here.

[In margin – If he prefers risquing them by the Sydney to the Derwent I would rather PGK Septr]

3 His Wethers are the next Object of consideration – Understanding that the price of Sheep Mutton at Norfolk is 1s 3d plb by Retail, and however disproportioned the price of the Mutton will appear to the Victualling Board, in comparison with that of Fresh Pork furnished the Buffalo at this place (as it is both Fresh meat and issued in the same proportion) Yet in this particular exigence I shall have no Objection to Captain Houstoun allowing the Purser to apply the Ship from the Male part of Guests Flock at 9d p lb during her stay off Norfolk Island. Nor will Captain Houstoun be against receiving such a Number as can be stowed and as Guest may choose to risk. The Meat and Maize will be received on board at the Government price on the Island and for which you will give him a Government Bill specifying that it is for the Service of Port Dalrymple. For the Wethers used by the Buffalo the purser will give him a Bill on the Victualling Board.

4 I can have no objection to your making up Standfields deficiency from the Expired Leases but if the Original proprietors reside on them and there are any permanent Buildings & erected by them, I think it would be but right that some Remuneration should be made by Standfield for the Premises if deemed worth it – when you send me the Description I shall then be able to act decidedly.

5 I observe with pleasure the exertions

[Page 43]

you have made in getting so much Ground in Wheat on the public Account – Raising as much Maize as possible is very desirable. By the Venus I requested that as much Maize and Wheat as could be spare might be in readiness to be put on board the Buffalo. By Mr Symmonds I learn there is little doubt of the Island being able to furnish a Thousand Bushels of Wheat and One or Two thousand Bushels of Maize. Trusting to that Supply or as much as you can send and Captain Houstoun can receive, I have sent no Grain from hence to Port Dalrymple and I shall be happy to learn that you have been able to send the above Quantity at least as well as all the pork you have salted – which will be an unequivocal proof of the Utility of Norfolk Island to the other Settlements.

6 I very much approve of your judicious Conduct in forbidding any intercourse with the Myrtle, and I hope that Example will make Masters of Ships cautious in informing me of their Intentions to touch at Norfolk Island.

7 I enclose an Order to draw Bills, for the amount of £780.8.7 as a part of the public Expences incurred within the Island between 1st January and 31st March last – I now have received the Vouchers 3 & 4 amounting to £897.14.7 and have enclosed my Order to draw Bills for the sum of £712.0.1. being part of the Expences incurred between 1st April and 30th June last.

8 In shipping the Salt pork and Grain on board the Buffalo, I request you will be particular in noting on the Receipts you require from that Ship what quantity of the Meat and Grain embarked were thus purchased or supplied from Government produce, one of which is to be enclosed with the Annual Documents –

[Page 44]

I enclose a Certificate for the Time you acted between Colonel Foveaux Departure September 9th 1804 to the Reduction of the Island 12 February 1805 in case any allowance should be made you thereon.

9 Respecting the Four Convicts sent by the Venus, you will embark Henry Brown Hayes and Maurice Margarott on board the Buffalo whose Commander has my directions to receive and deliver them to Lieutenant Governor Paterson – I enclose the Sentence of Michael Robinsons Transportation by which you will observe that he was sentenced 7 years Transportation to Norfolk Island, and at the Expiration of that Time he is to revert to the Sentence of Transportation for Life passed on him in England, mitigated here by Governor Hunter by a Conditional Emancipation not to leave this Territory or its Dependencies – Maum’s Sentence is for Life.

10 A person names Jones going to Port Dalrymple in the Buffalo having put some Ewes &c into Government Flock here he will produce you a Receipt and Order to receive an equal Number at Norfolk Island – I therefore request you will allow him to receive the whole Number in Ewes – he is also to have Two Sows for one he has left behind.

11 Since writing the preceding part of this Letter – I have made a verbal Agreement with the Commander of the Sydney bound to the Derwent to take Norfolk Island on her voyage thither – My object is, that if there is more than 80.000lbs of Saltpork ready the Buffalo is not to take more than 30.000lbs to Port Dalrymple – and the Remainder to be put on board the Sydney when she arrives for the Derwent – A similar Arrangement must also be made respecting the Grain ie not more than 500 Bushels of Wheat and 1000 of Maize is to be put on board the Buffalo

[Page 45]

for Port Dalrymple, and all the Remainder you can spare to be put on board the Sydney for the Derwent – I also wish One or Two Bulls to be put on board the Sydney – And if Guest chooses to take the risk of putting his overplus Ewes on board that Ship – for every Head landed I will direct Lieutenant Governor Collins to pay him Two Guineas in a Treasury Bill.[in the margin – If Guest has put the hundred Ewesinto your Government Flock/ Par. 2nd of this letter Request that they may also be put on board the Sydney for Port Dalrymple with at least 100 from Government Flock or as many more as Captain Forest can receive – It will be necessary that those belonging to Government should be distinguished from Guests by a mark, say a [broad arrow]. It may be advisable not to shear those that are sent – as many Plantain Treesas possible should be sent on board for them I also desire that at least six Cows in addition to the Bulls already directed may be put on board from the Government Herd.
PGK
Sept 30th 1805

12 Mr Humphries His Majesty’s Mineralogist wishing to avail himself of the Buffalos stay off Norfolk Island to forward his Researcher takes a passage in that Ship. I have to request he may meet with that Attention and Assistance which I am certain you will consider as his Due.

13 The Two Natives Bull Dog and Musquito having been given up by the other Natives as principals in their late Outrages are sent to Norfolk Island where they are to be kept, and if they can be brought to labour will earn their Food – but as they must not be let to starve for want of Subsistence – they are to be victualled from the Stores.

14 I wish you to write Colonel Paterson respecting what you sent from Norfolk Island to Port Dalrymple taking care to transmit proper Documents – should any Settlers go there let them take all their Agricultural Tools with them, and transmit a List of such Tools to Colonel Paterson who will forward such Account to me, that their proportion of Tools may be made up from hence in case the Stores at Port Dalrymple will not allow of it.

I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
Philip Gidley King

[Page 46]

Sydney 30th September 1805

The preceding is a Duplicate of my Letter by the Buffalo with the Marginal Notes of this Date - I hope every exertion will be made in putting the different Articles on board the Sydney. [in the margin - Capt. Forrest having the Charter party in his possession, will shew it you.] The enclosed is a Copy of the Charter party by which you will observe the saving it will be if that Ship can be despatched in the Fortnight, however I am well aware that will not depend either on your Exertions or those of Captain Forrest. It will be necessary for you to write to Lieutenant Governor Collins on the Subject of what you are able to sent, and the Receipts from the Ship to express the Articles being received for the Service of Hobart Town at the Derwent.

I have directed as many empty Casks as we have to be sent by the Sydney, but am sorry to say they will be few and in bad Condition being the best we have.

Exclusive of the General Statement and Employment List, it will be necessary that Returns agreeable to the enclosed Terms should be made to accompany similar Returns transmitted to England about that Period from hence.

I have sent you by the Sydney a Ram as near the Spanish Breed as Government is in possession of, and as the Amelioration of the Wool throughout these Colonies is an object much recommended by His Majesty’s Government, if it is found your Sheep thrive and the Wool improves from the Ram now sent, it will be desirable you should be furnished with Rams nearer the true Spanish Breed when they can be obtained from the individuals who now possess them.

I request that whenever you find it necessary to solicit Conditional Emancipation or Free

[Page 47]

Pardons for any highly Meritorious Character, that you specify the particular cause of the Objects merits, as that Extension of His Majesty’s Mercy has been grossly Censured by those Wretches whose Conduct has excluded them from my bestowing those Blessings on such infamous Characters.

Matthew Sutton and Michael Hayes Convicts for Life, but Conditionally Emancipated are sent under Sentence of the Magistrates from this Settlement for having persisted in Distilling Spirits contrary to Colonial Regulations on that behalf, as is Michael Burn who has served his term of Transportation. They may remove to any other Dependance on this Territory, but cannot be allowed to return here. Burn may leave the Colony altogether being a Free-man.

If any Settlers go from Norfolk to the Derwent they should take their number of Convicts with them.

Regular Invoices of the Articles Shipped on board the Sydney, must be sent to Lieut. Governor Collins. You will also furnish Capt Forrest with the necessary Certificate if his stay off the Island exceeds 14 days as stated in the Contract.

I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient humble servant
Philip Gidley King

[Page 48]

Sydney New South Wales
October 20th 1806

Sir,

Having received a congratulatory Address from the Inhabitants under your Protection, I request you will communicate the following Answer

I am, Sir, Your most Obedient Humble Servant Wm Bligh

To Captain Piper, Commandant, Norfolk Island

To the Settlers and Free Inhabitants of Norfolk Island

I have had the Satisfaction to receive your Address and Congratulations on my Arrival here; for which I beg to return you my sincere thanks.

Be assured nothing can be more acceptable than your determination to support the Government with Loyalty and Affection, and it will promote your moral duties; Welfare of your Islands; and render you all happy: and to these Public and laudable Ends, you may rely on my contributing every general or private Good in my Power Under such Impressions.

I remain Your Faithful, Humble Servant,
Wm Bligh.

[Page 49]

No. 4
Government House, Sydney
20th October 1806

Sir,

1. I have received your Letter of the 4th Instant by the Estramina, and with respect to the first Paragraph I must particularly recommend to your observation and foresight, to guard against any improper transactions by Transfer of Provisions by those Persons indebted to the Crown to others who are not so, whereby the Debtors may evade payment of their debts and realize their property by such means; while if the transaction was their own, the debt owing would be liquidated, and in consequence less amount would be drawn for on Government. - In order that I may fully comprehend this, you are in future to give the Storekeeper directions to set off against the respective Names the quantity of Articles received in liquidation in a separate List, which he is to verify on Oath, and which said List is to shew to me the outstanding debts as well as those paid wholly off, or in part.

[Page 50]

2. The Salted Pork has been received as stated in your second Paragraph but could have wished that a little Maize had been substituted as we are at much shorter allowance and in great want of Maize for Seed.

3. With respect to Hut Keepers mentioned in your Seventh Paragraph, I wish in future to have all Persons who will remain a burthen to Government numbered under the Title, Infirm, so that we may judge of the Number of effective Persons.

4. In your Reports of Cattle &c, you will particularize in future the Number of Male, Female and Wether Sheep, Goats, and Swine.

5. The documents during Governor King’s time are given to him and are under his consideration to acknowledge.

6. Therewith inclose my approbation for your drawing Bills in liquidation of the amount which appears to be due on the Vouchers you have transmitted me from the 13th August 1806 to the 30th September following, amounting to Eight Hundred and Eighty nine Pounds, Thirteen Shillings and Five Pence.

[Page 51]

7. Inclosed you have a List of Articles sent by this conveyance, Aurora South Whaler, the deficiency is owning to there being none in Store to complete your demand.

I am Sir Your most obedient humble Servant Wm Bligh

To John Piper Esqr, Commandant of Norfolk Island

[Page 52]

p, Aurora South Whaler on Service

Captain Piper Commandant at Norfolk Island

Governor Bligh

[Page 53]

No 3

Government House, Sydney, 26th October 1806

Sir,

1. I have received your Letter to Governor King and in reply to the second Paragraph I inform you, that on the heavy charge being duly proved, the parties must be sent here for Trial; but if it is not clear the Offenders can be convicted, you must consider how far it may be preferable to punish them on the Island in such a doubtful case, when at this place they may escape altogether, independant of the expence and trouble in the Voyage.

2. To the third Paragraph I have to observe to you, the Vessel should not have been begun without Governor King’s permission; and it is my directions that it is confined to the strictest Bands not to navigate anywhere but from Norfolk Island to Port Jackson, where further permission is to be obtained before she can proceed to the out Settlements – On Colonel Foveaux’s arrival will depend future proceedings.

[Page 54]

3. Respecting the fourth Paragraph Governor King is to do what is necessary it being in his time that the purchases were made.

4. On the fifth Paragraph I have to observe, that under due precaution and certainty, you may send by safe opportunities salted Port to the Derwent and Port Dalrymple, in the proportion of two Thirds to the former, and one Third to the latter, taking care in all your purchases to liquidate the debts due to Government as much as you can.

[in the margin: At Hobart Town are issued 466 full Rations. At Port Dalrymple 271]

5. In the event of your sending Pork to the New Settlements or to this place you are at liberty to barter for the Freight with Wether Sheep if it will produce any saving; and in that point of view, you are to endeavour to supply Government, People on the Island with Food, by its own means in Swine, Sheep, corn and Ground Provisions.

I am Sir Your most obedient humble Servant, Wm Bligh

To John Piper Esqr, Commandant of Norfolk Island` ouse, Sydney, House

[Page 55]

Extract of Letter to D Woodriff Esqr, HMS Calcutta 26th Novemr 1803.

I am much concerned that the Survey I caused to be taken of Port Phillip in December 1802 which was sent to England by the Glatton in May last, had not arrived in England previous to Your Departure. In which Case I presume from the Information I have given Lieut. Governor Collins, No debarkation would have taken place until You heard from me; However this is one of those Events depending on Circumstances that cannot be guarded against But amended as well as possible.

I have given the Lieutenant Governor every Information I possess and have suggested to him the propriety of consulting with You on the measures most advisable to adopt. And as a removal appears indispensible, I judged that to attempt that Service with the Lady Nelson and Francis, would be tedious And ultimately of more expence to the Crown than taking up the Ocean would be; this I have done, and shall endeavor to dispatch her and the Lady Nelson on the 28th inst which is four days after her Arrival. I have communicated the Chater party to Lieut. Governor Collins. A Copy should have been sent You, but that the time is so short, You will please to observe that she is taken up for four months certain in which time or less I trust the Service will be performed as he insisted on 18s a ton per Month I was obliged to comply from the exigence of the Occasion. I observe he was taken up by the Transport Board in August 1801 for 6 months at 19/6 per ton per month.

I have left the Choice of Port Dalrymple to the Settlement already formed at Hobart on the Derwent to Lieut Governor Collins and have listed my Idea of the Advantages and disadvantages of both places which I presume he will communicate to you. I give the

[Page 56]

preference to Port Dalrymple for a principal Settlement on Van Dieman’s Land for every other reason than the uncertainty of the quality of the Soil, and the present apparent difficulty of Access into the Port for Ships as stated by Captn Flinders whose Charts and Observations I am told by Mr Collins You have. Other Information respecting that Port, I possess none; But in the Event of its being wished to explore the entrance and determine respecting the Soil, I have taken up a small Sealing Schooner belonging to Mr Palmer and have also sent a very useful Boat down by the Ocean to assist on that Service if it is judged necessary while the re-embarkation is going on. Should Hobart on the Derwent be fixed on, without examining Port Dalrymple, I have to request that the Edwin may not be detained but suffered to proceed on her Sealing business and as she goes without Casks for Oil, I have requested the Lieutenant Governor to furnish them with some good empty salt meat casks. As the Cutter is much wanted here I have requested that she may not be damaged. She goes completely fitted in the same manner as Captain Flinders came from Wreck reef in her where I am sorry to say the Porpoise and a Merchant Vessel were wrecked on their passage to England.

It now remains for me to request a continuation of Your good Offices and exertions in directing and assisting to remove the Colonists from Port Phillip to Port Dalrymple or Hobart, as may be determined on submitting the exigency of the Case And the benefit His Majesty’s Service will derive thereby to Your Consideration and determination.

[Page 57]

Letter to Captn Woodriff, Commander of HM Ship Calcutta respecting Port Phillip and requesting his Assistance to remove establishment and Settlers to the Derwent.
26th Novr 1803

[Page 58]

A List of Witnesses that I requested might be summoned to attend the Court Augt 31st 1805
Ricd Atkins Esqr Judge At
Thos Smith Esqr as Marshall
Saml Marsden Chaplin & JP
Thos Arundell Esqr JP
Mr Andu Thompson High Constable
Mr Ricd [indecipherable] District Constable

[margin note: 1804 – see p66 and numerous other documents in Col. Sec. Papers Bundle 1]

Settlers who came free into the colony, reside on their Farms, & hold no situations under Government, and if there by any man who can impeach their competence as witnesses, let him speak, Governor King & His Majesty’s Ministers are intitled to the best information when they are willing to hear I am ready to speak state facts and prove them.

Mr M Plaice ) 7 Hills
“ Griffice )
Mr I Smith )
Mr George Sutter ) Balkham Hills
Mr & Mrs Seigall )
Mrs I Yelles
Mrs H Wins
Mrs I Tebbit
Mr I Bolton
Mr Thos Harley
Mr I Smith, this ...south creek
man hosbica: A convict – I did not
not know it at the time & perjured himself
[indecipherable] Mc Carty
Mr Wm Cudy
Mr Wm Strange
Mr Kitt Cumby
Mr Jno Bowman )
Mr Wm Bowman )
Mr Jno Obit ) Richmond Hill
Mr Rouse )
Mr Jno Small )
Mr Badgery )

Mr Davidson )
Mr Hall )
Mr Main ) Poartland Head
Mr And Jonston )
Mr Jno Jonston )
Mr Wm Sherwin - Late of the New South Wales Corps
Mr George Thompson - Late – a prisoner in his Majesty’s Jail at the site of Mr B McCarty
Mr Frances Oaks ) Pendent Hills
Mr I Brown ) Kissing Point

[margin note: writer’s name is Martin Mason S.G. 9.9.04]

[Page 59]

List of Witnesses continued, the following are settlers who have been prisoners.
Wm Asplin ) appointed to measure the work by Mr
Jacop Russell ) Arundell July 7th 1804
Thos Rickerby
Ins Pic
George Best
Wm Singelton
Ken? Baldwin
- Shired
Cobcroft
Mathern Lack
Thos Biggers
Wm Mason
Ins Kenny
Reid Kedge
B Minton – Mr Marsden’s over seer

To the above list of settlers in support of the [indecipherable] that the task is reasonable and easy to be performed, Denis McCarty opposed Patrick Duce, His Convict servant, Jno Jerany & Jno Holly, my two convict servants, who had rendered themselves amainable [sic] to corporeal punishment for opposing the public orders & refusing to perform their task, and had been defended as to costs and the opperaton of the public orders defeated from the 23rd day of June, the day McCarty first openly [indecipherable] up to the 31st day of August. McCarty produced the same 3 convicts for life before the parramatta Magistrates on the 1st day of Novr last, and set aside the verdict of the cort. Mr Arundell did not appear before the Court hold before the Court holders the 31st day of August notwithstanding he was repeatedly called, and unfair means were used to prevent to prevent some of my most important witnesses appearing, Mr and Mrs Thompson told Thos Rickerby on the morning of the 31st Aug the inquiry would not take place that day – how came we to be in the [indecipherable]

[Page 60]

Questions that would have been put to Mr Arundell Esqr R1cd Atkins Esqr, Judge Advocate & Thos Rickerby.

Questions to Thos Arundell Esqr:

1st Do you know Mr Denis McCarty, what is his general character?
2nd Did Mr Denis McCarty come before you on the 23 & 29th Days of June last, and declare that my Government servants had performed more than their task and if they had not he could be punished with the men or for the Men?
3rd Was it in consequence of Mr & Mrs McCarty’s impudent assertion, or any reason you had to doubt my veracity that you discharged my men three times during my absence the 23rd & 29th days of June & 7th July?
4th Did you ever say to any person, that you verily believed the men had performed their Task but that I was dissatisfied?
5th Was that opinion founded on facts within your own knowlege or on Mr D McCarty’s report?
6th Have any cause ever come before you as a Magistrate where it appeared that the master paid his men properly at A more reasonable rate than myself?
7th Did I repeatedly propose to you that in order to deside whether the Governors task be reasonable on my farm, to let three settlers be drawn by lot from 12 or 24 of the most respectable free settlers, and them to measure the work and make their report upon oath?
B At the time of making the above proposal in answer to some objections I offered to pay the settlers so appointed one guinea each for their loss of time & trouble.

[Page 61]

8th Did you at any time receive a Bill of this tenor from [indecipherable] [indecipherable] by Jno Jerany one of my Government men and recommend him Denis McCarty to bring on action against me in the Civil Court?
9th Did not the Thos Rickerby declare before you that the task on my farm was very moderate and that he could fall four acres pr week himself?
10th Did not Thos Rickerby declare before you that the ground was not
broak up three Inches deep?
11th Did not one of your own Government men perform 20 weeks task, in six weeks, and earn 7 Guineas sterling besides performing his Government task?

Questions that would have been put to Richd Atkins Esqr\

1st Am I as A British subject and settler within this colony, A competent Witness against my convict servants for neglect of duty & disobedience of orders?
2nd Are the Magistrates and Constables of this colony bound to inforce the Governors public orders with regard to labour when called upon so to do by any settler in the Colony?
3rd From what you have seen of my conduct as A Magistrate would you doubt my evidence we against my convict servants?
4th From what you have seen of Mr Denis McCarty in your situations or Judge Advocate of this Colony, do you believe him to be a virtious character or A Bold daring and dangerous member of Society?
5th The Court seemed to disaprove of any questions that relate to Mr McCarty’s General character - [indecipherable] nothing in advansing the fact, that he is one of the most infamous characters in the colony, and that he is not the only infamous vagabond who harboured free settlers men in his house & come before A Bench of Magistrates & successfully opposed Governor King’s orders.

[Page 62]

Questions that would have been put to Thos. Rickerby
1st You have been an overseer and many years A settler in this Colony, what in your opinion, is the task as regulated by the Governor in Falling & Burning &c reasonable on my Farm or is it tyrannical to exact that task?
2nd Can men perform that task and earn a sufficiency in their own time to inable them to live as well as labourers in Husbandry live in any part of England where you have been?
3rd On Sunday the 12th of August you accompanied me to my Farm, is the Timber fallen as it ought to be, is the Timber burned off in A workmanlike manner, would the breaking up be to your satisfaction were it on your own Farm?
4th Is 65 Rod of Braeking up an unreasonable task on my that ground?
5th Did not you declair to Thos. Arundell Esq. that you could fall 4 acres a week on my Farm, and that if the falling was lightthe Burning off was in proportion?

B Mr Andw. Thompson told this witness on the morning of 31st day of August that the inquiry would not take place that day, this is surely a liberty in our Constables, but when the Magistrates degraided Isaac Warran A Convict Constable by removing him from office, a sufficient punishment for allowing Hughes to escape out of custody, he was reinstated and kept in his office by the high Constable of the district, this fact is proved by the public returns
turn over

[Page 63]

No. 8
A
List of Witnesses
That I desired to have summoned
Aug 31st
1804
With questions
That would have
been put to
Thos. Arundell Esq.
Ricd. Atkins Esq.
Thos. Rickerby
had they appeared

as I do not keep
A copy of this
paperlet no
advantage be
taken

This is the way that Governor Kings orders are come into effect, and his Majestys subjects who come [indecipherable] into this Colony is protected, from the midnight Ruffin

[Page 64]

Sydney May 29th 1805

Sir,

I have received yours of the 5th and 26th April with their Inclosures.
I cannot but approve of your proceeding respecting the very improper Conduct of the Master of the Ship Alexander, who in a most artful and daring manner carried off the People from hence and tried the same at Norfolk Island which has been defeated by your Vigilance, and I consider the confiscation of his boat and levying the Fine as very proper examples to deter others - Here I have been obliged to increase the Penalty, as you will observe by the Inclosure, which I recommend being done at Norfolk Island.
Your Punishment of the Seamen appears to me as necessary as indispensable for the sake of Example.
Respecting your Request for Directions to draw Bills to the Amount of £1622..11..4 being part of the Contingeny Expence for the Quarter from January 1st. to 31st. March of the present Year, the Vouchers corresponding with your Information of the whole Expence, amounting to £2551..8..7for that Quarter, I have inclosed an Order to draw for the Amount required viz. £1622..11..4.
Referring you to My Lord Hobart’s reason for withdrawing a part of the Establishment from Norfolk Island, a Copy of which I concluded Col. Foveaux left with you, and your Letter to his Lordship of which you sent me a copy I need not urge to you the Necessity of the Expences of the Island being proportioned as much as possible to the Numbers necessary to be Victualled from the Public Store, which is the greatest cause of the Expence his Lordship is anxious to diminish, exclusive of the quantity of Pork you may be able to procure and Salt from Individuals for this Plan and of which I would recommend a separate

To
Captain John Piper,
Commandant, Norfolk Island

[Page 65]

Voucher to be sent.
It appears to me that Five Soldiers with their Families and Three or Four Settlers may come by the Lady Nelson but she must not be too much burthened at this Time of the Year – Mr Simmons and you will agreeon the number to be sent.
I have it in contemplation but not fixed on , to send the Integrity – In that case you will be able to send the residue of the Soldiers and Three or Four Settlers or Prisoners who were before ordered, together with some Pork.
Several others as well as Mr Campbell Master of the Harrington have brought the Norfolk Island Receipts here to get Government Bills for them – I hope the Disappointment some of them have felt, will prevent anything of the kind happening in the future.

I have the honour to be
Sir
Yopur
Most Obedient
Humble Servant

Philip Gidley King

I am sorry we had no pitch or tar [indecipherable] Capt. Simpson but I have given him an Order for any Equivalent from the Stores. – In looking over your last letter I find I have not replied to one of Feby with no date [in margin – supposed 20th] I have sent across to rest of the requisitions made by individuals which you will be so good to communicate to them
It will be [indecipherable] I should be informed by the L. Nelson if these [indecipherable] fully determine

[Page 66]

to remove to Port Dalrymple or the Derwent, that I may be guided in what vessels I need to send for them as soon as possible after her return – Should you be able to send any by [indecipherable] at a reasonable expence since it will greatly facilitate this Object.
I enclose [indecipherable] [indecipherable] respecting the missing Civil Officers being their pay [indecipherable] your own continues as regulated by the Minute in my letter of 30th Ulto.
The Free Pardons & Emancipations recommended by Col Foveaux & yourself are under consideration
I am sorry the great demand that has been made on our Stores & not having received any Supplies prevents us presently sending you a greater quantity of Slops & & than that stated in the Enclosure.
Philip Gidley King
May 31st. 1805

[Page 67]

Saturday Night May 10, 1805
Dear Sir
I know it will give you some uneasiness to hear that already an Attempt has been made by some of our Rascals, - but I think it only similar to the ridiculous efforts that have been made by the Fools at P. Jackson without plan and without means. I am however of opinion much Vigor must be observed in our police in such a Colony. Inanity is the last Feature that should distinguish it, and it must be much better to prevent, than to punish further Offences of such debased Scoundrils as compose our Settlement. I see it has become thin Nature to be Scoundrils, and is therefore our duty to prevent the exercise of their profession for nothing but precision can defeat the natural Consequences attached to such a Society of Outcasts. I am no Advocate for unnecessarily harsh Measures with Men that are rather to be attempted reclaiming, than further hardening, but there is a certain even handed Illumination is unavoidably necessary.

With respect to the business of Barrington I am very sorry it was ever brought forward particularly the busy = significant circumstance of the States abuse – must confess that always the best opinion of him, although the appa-

[Page 68]

ently proven circumstance of his filling the Government Property to & has rather staggered my Faith.

Agreeable to your friendly recommendation I have written to my Friends in England, although I well know your own Word with him the most effective.

As you predicted to me a Number of the Men begin to give us some trouble about this Time. Will you be good enough to divest that in the next account of their Sentences to the place where they were tried should be mentioned. Bary Goulsbry is to come by the Integrity says his Time is out, he now behaves with [indecipherable] will be a loss to us. There is also a Carpenter of the name 4 in the List Forona Mr Fullin but he says Terence Flynn who came in the royal Admiral, - who states himself to be out at his Time, he says he was convicted for only Seven Years, the list says Fourteen - at all accounts he is an Impotent Worthless Fellow, and is one of the Enterprising Youths who attempted their Escape – With impact to the latter I was not quite certain, although I was at the same time to do so, that we had as Magistracy the person to add so much additional time to that Labour for the Crown.

I have had such trouble to receive the Wheat

[Page 69]

by Thomson Vessel having no covering for it but at last secured it and it is now all in Casks – and is really fine wheat – I gave the [indecipherable] to receipt for 300 Bushels. He behaves very well and brought us up a load of Stores from Green Island. The Arrival of the Wheat, has at present prevented my sending any Casks to Sydney, but You may depend the Utmost Care shall be taken of them. Our [indecipherable] will now certainly be ready in a few days and I shall be heartedly rejoiced. I hope you will excuse the haste of my wriing but [indecipherable] for I am to incessantly running about and [indecipherable] on Business the whole day, that I can never take up my Pen till Night – but I hope I shall soon not be so fagged, for I have been lately really almost knocked up. The Buffalo will [indecipherable] are the [indecipherable], the Jack the day the Sputwell came in. I work by her [indecipherable] the Sydney. Time will not only offer me to conduct by assuring You Excellency, I give you [indecipherable] all now. Your very [indecipherable] D H Riley

I am much inconvenient for paper & I have written to the Salmon At any time a State sent me, I have in vain tried to purchase.

[Page 70]

Could you spare me a few more Old Returns.

[Page 71]

Memorandum

You having represented to me by Your Letter of the 4th Instant that the Amount of Purchases made on behalf of the Crown from the 13th August last to the 30th September 1806 amounted to Eight hundred Eighty Nine Pounds thirteen Shillings and five pence being presented to You for Consolidation for which You requesting Instructions. You will direct the Storekeeper to draw for that amount approved by You an[d] My Lords Commissioners of His majesty’s Treasury taking Care to transmit regular and full vouchers for that Service to their Lordships Secretaries, and the principal Secretary of State for the Colonies for the first Conveyance. For which this shall be your order.

Wm Bligh
October 28th 1806

Captn John Piper
Commandant
Norfolk Island

[Page 72]

Authority for the Commandant of Norfolk Island to draw for £ 9.13.5 on the Commiss. of His Majesty’s Treasury being for the Amount of Purchases between the 13th Augt to 30th Sept 1806.

[Page 73]

P.G. King to Bligh about the existing customs on grants and assigned servants.

21 August 1806.

[Page 74]

Parramatta August 21st 1806

Dear Sir

It is rather singular that such Letters as those given by Mr Cook in Lord Corndon’s name to Messrs Short and Townsend should not have been communicated officially to you before you left England – as government has been exact in giving me similar information of the kind and this omission is certainly an official neglect somewhere but as these Documents are a sufficient authority for you I should get rid of the Business and prevent further [indecipherable] by telling him to look out for the 600 acres and if the situation is approved of go give him to give him a grant for it, ane one convict for each 100 acre’s During the 18 months. Respecting the Stock & Stores if I do not greatly mistake, the Letter he Shewed me Laid, they were to be paid for, if not to Directed by annual Instalments, of Two for each year.

[Page 75]

I return you the Letters which come Directed for the governor – The Invoice of the Meat Should be Sent to the Commissary.

Might you not get Brooks to recommend some good Women & Men, for your Houses – if you are not provided for. If any officer make application for Women, I would let them Indent for them – as it will ease the Home – at this Scarce time – having nothing more to say just now – I shall leave my under Secretary to Conclude. Thank you, Sir for the opportunity of present my very best remembrance to Mrs Putland who I hope with yourself are well. I wish I could say as much for my family – King is very unwell and I am sure you will be sorry to understand that Beas little Mory has been very ill all this day. She is now a little better –and I hope by tomorrow that

[Page 76]

she will be greatly recovered. She has not held up her Head all the day – and last night Harriat was up – nearly all the night with her.

With Compts to Mr Putland.

I remain Dear Sir Your Much Obliged
PG King

[Page 77]

From Governor King 21st August 1806
Respecting Capt Short & Capt Townson’s Grants of Land

Governor King
21st August 1806

Rec’d 21st ditto

His Excellency Governor Bligh

Capt Short & Townsent; Grants of Land

[Page 78]

Sydney April 20th 1807

Sir,

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter for Lady Nelson, together with the Pork, Soap and Chest of Drawers – I have sold the whole of the Port to Captn Dalrymple of the General Wellesley at 1/6 plb which I consider a good price at the present state of the market as Port is falling and will continue to do so on account of the many expected arrivals – young Jamison did not apply for any of the Port altho I told him he might have the quantity you mention’d. I shall be glad to know by your next whether I am to sell the soap or keep it for your own use – I have taken particular care of the Chest of Drawers. It is place in a safe and dry situation. The Draft you have drawn on me in favor of Captn Bunker for £ 25.12. has been duly honor’d.

I am very happy to have it in my power to send you by the Wellesley 2 Chests of Tea, 2 Casks of Sugar & 1 Box of Candles as pr Inclosed Invoice. I will thank you to return the Casks to Conellan as we owe them to Mr Broughton, Mr Redfern is directed to let you have 200lbs of fine sugar from a Cask sent to him by Mr Wentworth at ½ pr lb. it being the price it Cost. Mr Wentworth has also sent to him a Small Box of Tea of which you can take, the one half, if you think proper at 21/plb. I have directed Mr Robinson

[Page 79]

[page 79]

to deliver to you a small sett of China which I beg you will do me the Honor to accept, and at the same time I request you will receive my warm & sincere thanks for your Kind attention to him – I have sent to Robinson some Nankeens and other articles for sale. The prices of them are so enormous that I did not like to send you any but he is directed to accommodate you with anything that you may like. I have soon to supply you with those articles you are in want of at a Cheap rate as ships are now droping in and the price of Goods must unavoidably fall – I understand that the Lady Nelson will shortly sail for Norfolk, if there are any arrivals before her departure I hope to supply you with all your wants. I thank you for your hints relative to Sutton. It is my determination to Close all my Concerns at Norfolk Island as soon as possible with the exception of forwarding a few trifles to Robinson to enable him to help himself during his stay on the Island which I hope will not be long. I feel myself much oblig’d to you for your attention to Mr Williams during his stay at Norfolk. I take the liberty of introducing Captn Dalrymple of the Gen l Wellesley to your Kind notice and assistance and have the Honor to remain
Sir your very obliged and obedt servant
S Lord

[Page 80]

Sir,

Permit me to avail myself of this opportunity to thank you for the polite attention I had the honor to receive from you during my stay at Norfolk Island; I am happy to inform you that we brought your Mare safe on Shore, and she appear’d to be in as good condition as when we left Norfolk, McDermot was very attentive. I paid him £ 3 – according to your order.

The arrival of the ship Broshirs, (a whaler) from England with an Investment has enabled Mr Lord to send you some Knives & Forks, and I have no doubt but that he will have it in his power to execute all your Orders as Vessels are daily expected. Allow me to repeat that anything I can do for you either here or in London will give me pleasure. I expect to sail from hence for England in about a month.

I have the honor to be
Sir your most humble servt
Francis Williams

Sydney, 20th April 1807

[Page 81]

In the Box containing the Knives and Forks there is a small parchment with writing paper for yourself, and you will be so good as to take the trouble to send the other two parcels as directed.

Captain Piper, Commandant, Norfolk Island

[Page 82]

[indecipherable]

[Page 83]

[indecipherable]

[Page 84]

[indecipherable]

[Page 85]

[indecipherable]

[Page 86]

[indecipherable]

[Page 87]

[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

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[indecipherable]

[Page 98]

Government House
November 22nd 1807

Sir,

The Porpoise being now returned from the Derwent, I send her to you to be directed how she is further to proceed in embarking the Settlers and consequent duties in the evacuation of the Island.

By the Duchess of York dated 10th October 1807 – In answer to which I have to recommend your attention to my former letter. In it I told you the Porpoise, Lady Nelson and Estramina, were the only vessels I had to effect the purpose intended; besides which no Vessel is here to be had for hire; if I was authorised to do so. Under these circumstances you must persuade, and command if necessary every person to keep up their cultivation and supplied to the last moment, as they will suffer very much should anything happen to either of our Vessels in which they may

Captain Piper, Commandant, Norfolk Island

[Page 99]

depend to embark – this is the greatest precaution we have to take, and for you to contemplate on finding what the Porpoise can carry – Consider that the three vessels may be lost altogether, what then will become of the people on the Island, if they do not keep up their Farms and Cultivation, and when too, I may not be able to send them any successers from hence. You will therefore give out orders Descriptive of such unforeseen events. I approve of the one you have already anticipated dated 20th September last, except the stop to the breeding of Swine, which is contrary to our general principles of taking care of your support to the last moment. Whatever a Settler leaves on the Island will be paid for by your certificates, as comprehensively as by any other means, as all your drafts will be duly honored. I do not see that any Individual can close his account until he departs for you must take care, not to pay beforehand, it is therefore not of importance to adopt your suggestion for a discretionary power of drawing Bills to make the necessary satisfaction otherwise than heretofore unless on some urgent occasion, which you have my permission to do, but only when the usual mode cannot without injury to the service, be complied with.

Never fail to send me particular

[Page 100]

demands of the Provisions you want both as to quantity and quality, or any necessary, for by the evacuation, my knowledge of what I should send becomes imperfect, altho’ the usual statements are sent of the remains; therefore I request you will be particular in this, as it will be attended with much advantage to Government, and expedite the public Services.

Besides the Forms to be sent to the Lieutenant Governors of what the Settlers have left behind them (which I approve of) you will please to add one which will represent what they take with them when they embark.

Inclosed you will receive authority to draw Bills on His Majesty’s Treasury for £ 245.5.3 for 8256 lbs Swine’s Flesh at 6d per lf and 983 lbs of Mutton at 9d plb between the 1st July and 30th September pas.

The Porpoise sailed from hence for the Derwent the 10th of last month, as did the Estramina for Port Dalrymple. The Porpoise arrived here the 18th Instant but the Estramina is not yet returned at which I am very uneasy. Thus you see the Porpoise has been 38 days in going to the Derwent and returning here.

Taking everything into consideration I think that from the time the Porpoise leaves you to

[Page 101]

her return to you again it will be three months, barring all accidents, and on this you must not rely on the Lady Nelson and Estramina.

The lady Nelson sailed from hence the 16th of last month with Stores for you, and cloathing, which I trust are safe arrived, and she on her way to the Derwent with the few Settlers she has been able to receive on board. The salt I sent you by her will I hope enable you to cure meat, for we shall otherwise be much in want.

In your last letter by the Porpoise you allude to Meat salted for the New Settlements which you was obliged to have recourse to, but you have always omitted to inform me what quantity you had in hand, or if not any, altho; my farmer Settlers have particularly directed it to e done. The Deputy Commissary is not to fail in this particular.

Lieutenant Symons will have general Orders to consult with you and to make every recommendation in his power by taking down Bulk Heads or otherwise, and I send you three ton of ay for the Stock to be sent away with the Settlers, which must be weighed out when iii
Hay for the Stock to be sent away with the Settlers, which must be weighed out when issued, according to the Animals it may be given to, in order to last its full time; Cracked Corn and Bran should also be sent for their use.

I now send you Two dozen Reaping Stooks, 75 Fierces of Beef to

[Page 102]

be taken care of in case of necessity, but I hope you will not be under so pressing a one as to use them, but avoid it by issuing salted Pork – for this purpose 6000lbs weight of salt is likewise sent. You will receive also 100 Bushels of a Seed barley which I send to be taken down to the Derwent to assist the Settlers there. The whole Amount of your Invoice being £ 896.16.2.

Let me know what quantity of Hay you wish to have sent you for the next voyage of the Porpoise.

You will send Mr Garland and his Boat’s Crew (late of His Majesty’s Ship Cornwallis, here, whenever it is perfectly convenient to you by a direct opportunity.

I have only now to repeat my directions, that you will not forget to send me, an account of the Provisions you require from time to time to be sent to you, that we may comply as fully as we can, and not send more than is necessary. Grain will be wanted at the Derwent.

I am, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant

Wm Bligh

[Page 103]

Dated 22 Novr and received 6th December.

[Page 104]

Government House, Sydney
27 May 1807

Sir,

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Dispatch dated 10th April last by the Albion on the 14th Instant, and now send you by His Majesty’s Ship Porpoise authority to draw for two hundred and twenty nine pounds seven shillings & nine pence for purchases between the 1st January & 31 of March of this year.

You will have received my dispatches by the Duchess of York dated the 7th Instant, which you will acknowledge by the return of the Porpoise.

I observe by your return of the outstanding debts on the 10th of last month there remains one hundred & seventy two pounds 3/10½ - I therefore strongly recommend to you to have this liquidated by the receipt of Pork in order to lessen the amount of money which you may draw for in the next quarter, referring you to my first paragraph in letter No. 4 of the 18th October last by the Aurora Whaler.
ouse, Sydney 17 May 1807

[Page 105]

[page 105]

I have ordered what Salt there is to spare to be sent to you, of which you will receive an account from the Commissary.

Our situation here has made it necessary to separate six rebellious subjects, two of whom you will herewith receive orders to keep under your government, two are sent to the Derwent, and two will be sent to Port Dalrymple.

I am [indecipherable] to have good accounts of your Crops, and am
Sir
Your most obedient
Humble servany
Wm. Bligh

To Captain Piper
Commandant
Norfolk Island

[Page 106]

Hobart Town River Derwent 5th December
1807
Dear Piper

I received your kind letter of the 8th Ult. By our Friend Kent; and was glad to learn from him that you were in good health. I was also glad to find the Norfolk Letters had given preference to this place: Tho’ the specimens we received per Lady Nelson are not of the most eligible description yet as I know there are many respectable and deserving ones to come I earnestly trust their removal will be attended with benefit to themselves and advantage to our Infant Settlement should you with some little assistance and attention (that might lay within my power) shewn to any I beg youll command me as nothing would give me greater pleasure than alleviating in some degree the loss they must sustain by the removal from their revered Commander, protector and friend.

My visit to Norfolk Island I look on as one of the most fortunate circumstances that has befallen me since my arrival in this distant and savage clime as it not only introduced me to him I shall ever esteem but convinced me at the same time that it does not depend on country and climate whether mankind is to be happy or miserable. The former appear’d to reign in its greatest splendour entirely owing to the goodness of One Man whose good offices and friendship I shall always be proud to acknowledge and ever

[Page 107]

gratefully bear in remembrance at the same time I should be glad to offer something more convincing than words I therefore earnestly intreat if I can in any instance whatsoever be of the least service you will not for a moment hissitate Commanding my services as I assure you the pleasure and real satisfaction will be twofold on my part. Kent mentioned your intention of sending some Asses to this place for disposal which he said “in your hurry of business you had omitted mentioning” you may rely on my using every exertion in disposing of them (or anything else you might wish to send) to the greatest advantage.

I had the great pleasure of your Brother’s company here for about ten days he accompanied Mr Grimes by land but as I know the Estramina has left Port Dalrymple for Port Jackson since his return I shall refer you to his letter for particulars and shall only add I wish much he was living amongst us

I was disappointed at the shortness of your letter, but I hope the next will be much longer, and as I really feel greatly interested in everything that concerns you I hope youll give me a little account of yourself and be assured one of the greatest pleasures I shall enjoy will spring from your correspondence. I find I have not time to say anything about myself as the Lady Nelson sails in a few hours

[Page 108]

but my next shall contain a few repetitions of the nominative singular in the mean time I take my leave and allow me to subscribe myself with the sentiments of respect and esteem
My dear Piper Your faithful Friend
And very oblig’d Servant
[indecipherable]

Excuse the Paper as it is very scarce
And the best I have got

[indecipherable] that they just mentioned that Paint Oil is very scarce at Norfolk I asked Kent your house or boat wants painting I have therefore taken the liberty of troubling him with a small jar for you, which I request you’ll do me the honour of accepting.

[Page 109]

Captain Piper
Etc etc etc
Norfolk Island

Per favour
Lt. Kent

[Page 110]

No 9
Government House Sydney
May 1st 1807

Sir

I have received your dispatch by the Venus dated 16 Feby. Last and also by Lady Nelson of the 20th of March

On those of 16th February I have only to observe that in the list of the Papers annexed thereto, the numbers disagreed with the numbers to particular papers which some sent by a former opportunity, while it pointed out they were among those in the Dispatch which the said List was an Index to. On any future occasion therefore be so good as to mention particularly in a separate list the papers which are to be connected with the New Dispatch, with the numbers they bore.

With respect to the Vouchers you transmitted to me on the Mr A[indecipherable] for the amount of Purchases made in behalf of the Crown and since then made satisfactory I in consequence approve thereof and inclose you the authority to draw for the sum of Two hundred and ninety six pounds ten shillings and seven pence, but I am to request you will in your general Letter accompanying Vouchers always state the amount for which you request permission to draw.

[Page 111]

On your dispatches of the 20th March I have to observe that with respect to the building a vessel at Norfolk Island, you will see by your letter to Governor King of the 9th of September last which was given permission for it to be done you say “I beg leave to acquaint you that I have given permission to three of the Inhabitants to build a vessel of forty feet Keel on their joint account for the purpose of trading to and from this Island to Port Jackson as well for taking off the Island such surplus pork as the Settlers can afford for the markets at that place which I hope will meet your approbation” my observations in this circumstance is therefore correct, and I refer you to my letter N0 3 of the 20th Oct. last on that head and to proceed hither for her Register.

[In the margin]

If the Vessel had not been begun to be built in my [indecipherable] from your letter? I should not have permitted it – as it is, they are to consider that one of the restrictions is to be that she shall be liable to be sold to the best bidder whenever government may see proper to order the same to be done.

I regret to hear any doubts of raising supplies in your Island and you will find I have paid attention thereto by the Supply which I now send (a) by the Duchess of York amounting to 142 Bushells of seed wheat in 130 Bags – 420 Bushels of wheat in 310 bags for consumption and 15703lbs of rice in 190 Bags; together with the Hospital Necessaries as required by your Surgeon But nevertheless I think it proper to state to you that in a letter from a correspondent to Mr Jamison it states there is this

[In the margin]

(a)
Agreeable to the Invoice sent by the Commissary

Pounds 479 : 1 : 11 ¼

[Page 112]

paragraph – “There is no appearance of Want there is plenty of Pork, and a sufficiency in the hands of individuals (all salted) for the support of the Island for nine months”

I have directed the Commissary to purchase writing Paper as soon as any arrives’ at present we are in great distress, but nevertheless send you the little we can spare – our gazettes can no longer be printed for want of it.

I shall now annex for your information that is to be considered the full ration of Provisions per Week when the Stores will admit of it being so issued. –

Wheat 10 lbs or 8 lbs of Flour
Maize 3 lbs or 3 pints of Pease
Beef 7 lbs or 4 lbs of Pork Salt
Sugar 6 ozs.

[indecipherable]

Rice 8 lbs is equal to 8 lbs of Flour or 10 lbs of Wheat.
Rice 1 lbs, or 1 lb Flour or 2 lbs Maize is equal to 6 ozs of Sugar.
Maize 2 lbs, equal to 1 lb of Wheat.

I send you a copy of the form of our general Statement and also of Settlers Muster which you will please to have complied with

You have omitted to acknowledge receiving Robert Mathews as a Prisoner sent by the Lady Nelson who I directed the Judge Advocate to commit to your Charge as being banished from this Country.

I am sorry there has been

[Page 113]

such a loss in the Rice as your survey states which has caused me to send a quantity to make up for it. I have every confidence you will use every effort to produce the necessary supplies within the Island in future so far as rests with yourself, and
I remain Sir
Your most obedient humble servant
Wm Bligh

I have recd your letter by the Commerce.

Captain Piper
Commandant at Norfolk island

[Page 114]

Return of Stores expended in the Majestys Lumber Yard at Parramatta from the 26th January to the 20th April 1806 – While Superintended by Richard Rouse,

Date – Weight of Iron – Quality and Quantity – To whom or what purpose

1806 January 30 – 6lbs – 4 Horse Shoes – Kaley Botanist
1 Horse Shoe & 3 removers – Light orse
HorHorse
2 removers – Arabian orse
Horse

9lbs – 1 new link to Main Chain – Timber Carriage
6 links & Hook to other Chain

1lb – Removing 4 Shoes – Light orse

Horse

8lbs – Repairing Plough 1 Band 369 dognails – Toongabbie
2 Keys & Bolt

7 1/2lbs – Pair New Tonges & 2 Punches –Blacksmiths Shop –

2lbs - ax [indecipherable] – Fellers
1 Linch pin – Truck

8lbs – 4 Images – Govr House Hall

2lbs – 1 Trowel – Bricklayers - [indecipherable]

4 ½ - sm ax – Steel 1/2lb - [indecipherable] - Bullock driver
1 spade – Brickmakers
Steel 1lb – Factory

2 ½ - 18 Strate Nails – Wheelers

[Page 115]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 116]

[Page 117]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 118]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 119]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 120]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 121]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 122]

Tables not transcribed

[Page 123]

Return of Stores Received and Expended in His Majesty’s Lumber yard at Parramatta from the 26th Jany: to the 2 [indecipherable] April 1808

John Thomas Campbell Esq
Secretary, Sydney

Richd Rouse, Supt

[Page 124]

Head Quarters, Sydney
24th May 1808

Sir,
The city of Edinburgh, the Ship I informed you of, in my Letter by the Estramina of the 28th of march, is at last repaired, and will sail for Norfolk Island immediately.

I enclose you a copy of the Charter party, from which you will learn the conditions the City of Edinburgh has been hired upon: and I hope her Supercargo and part owner, Mr Bury, will give every assertion in his power to facilitate the service in which he is engaged: and to lessen the difficulties, and inconvenience, that a large number of people cooped up in ship board much unavoidably experience.

From the size and accommodations of the City of Edinburgh, I expect they will be found capable of receiving the whole of the persons now at Norfolk Island, who are destined

Captain John Piper

[Page 125]

destined to be Sent to the Derwent and a considerable portion of their [indecipherable] Stock: which I think had [indecipherable] be confined to Ewe Sheep.

As asses may become extremely useful at the Derwent, I would recommend if room can be conveniently made for them, that all the Females and two Males may be sent.

There are ten Casks of Bran put on board for the Stock – Hay we have been prevented from sending in consequence if any quantity taking Fire that had been prepared.

Whatever part of the Letters Levi Stock may remain, you will receive on account of Government, on the same conditions you intend into with the Settlers who were first sent offers.

As you will have no occasion for the Bulls and Oxen after the Settlers and Prisoners are removed, It will be adviseable Prisoners are removed, it will be adviseable 6 fatten – kill – and salt them for the Publick are

[Page 126]

the City of Edinburgh takes all the Hops that can be spared from hence: and if you think it necessary to distribute any part of them to other Settlers and their Families. You have my permission to do so at the prices charged in the Invoice. You may also issue a jacket, a cap and a pair of Stockings to each of the Prisoners, observing to forward a return of what you do issue to Lieut. Governor Collins.

To provide as much as possible against disputes and complaints on the passages to the Derwent, I have stipulated, that an Agent shall go on board on behalf of Government to Superintend the arrangement of the Settlers and Prisoners: and to direct the distribution of Provisions [indecipherable]. But as there is no officer here, who can be spared, I am of opinion, that Mr Martin Tims, the Provost Marshal, would be a proper person to perform that duty. Of this you, however, are best qualified to decide – you may therefore

[Page 127]

either appoint Mr Tims, or any other person you may more approve.

If Mr Tims proceeds to the Derwent he can remain at that Settlement, or may come on to this in the City of Edinburgh, as shall appear most to his advantage.

Being in hourly expectation that Lieut. Colonel Patersen, or Lieut. Colonel Foveaux will relieve me in my present Command, I can give you no positive assurance respecting the time, or manner of the removal of yourself [to] the Civil establishment – and the Detachments of the New South Wales Corps. but I shall recommend that the Porpoise may be such to perform that service immediately after her return from Port Dalrymple, to which places she was sent on the 18th Ultime for Lieut. Colonel Patersen.

If that advice should be adopted, the Porpoise can also bring off the Island most of the Government livestock. I therefore

[Page 128]

recommend to you to hold yourself in readiness to quit the Island at a short notice, and to make the best arrangement in your power for the safety and preservation of any Stock, that from want of room it may be found necessary to leave behind.

You will of course victual your whole establishment by slaughtering the Male Stock and I do not see what more economical arrangement can be made, than to kill and salt these males which may be left, when the ship arrives, by which you are to compleat the evacuation of Norfolk Island.

I am Sir, Your Most Obedient
Humble Servant
Geo. Johnston

[Page 129]

On His Majestys Service
To Captain Piper
Commandant
Norfolk Island

[Page 130]

Regimental Orders Head Quarters 15th Oct 1808

As it appears on examining the State of the Companys accounts that debts to a very large amount stand charged against several of the Non Commd Officers and privates of the Corps Lieutenant Colonel Foveaux feels it incumbent upon him to refer Officers commanding Companys to the regulations relative to the effects and credits of Non Commission’d Officers and Privates who died, dated 20 Feby 1799 and to the 29th article of regulations for carrying on the recruiting service dated 29th Octr 1806 in both of which His Majestys expectation is expressed that the debt of an Infantry Soldier shall not in any Instance (except when increased by the sentence) or a Court Martial) exceed Ten Shillings. And also to the 10th Article of regulations for Clothing and appointments of the Army dated 22nd Apo 1803, wherein it is expressly ordered that the articles of Necessaries specified in the Schedule (thereunto annexed) shall be kept in complete repairs by the stoppage of one shilling and sixpence per week from the pay of Soldiers, but that in particular instances where the same shall be found inadequate a Regimental Court Marshal or Court of Enquiry is to be convened for the purpose of authorising such farther stoppage as may e found expedient.

And he thinks is also adviseable to refer the Officers commanding Companys to the 19th Article of the same regulation in which it is stated that the price of the articles mentioned in the same schedule of Necessaries are liable to Variation in certain degree from tempory or local circumstance but tat it is His Majestys expectation that every Officer in Command of a Reg. and every Officer Commanding a Company will feel it a most important part of his duty to take care that all articles are purchased for the Soldiers on the most advantageous terms and at ready money prices and that they are delivered to the Men at prime cost without any extra charge than what in some occasions may unavoidably be incurred for carriage and when Regiments are on Foreign stations for Freight and insurance and if any of the articles specified in the Schedule shou’d not be wanting for the soldiers use the money stopped for such articles shall be repaid him.

And lastly Lieut. Col. Foveaux calls the Attention

[Page 131]

of Officers commanding companys to His Majestys Regulations of 1st Septemr 1795 directing that the Soldiers shall be accounted with on the 24th of each Month for the difference or Ballance of their pay and that any Money which may appear due to them shall be paid into their hands, care being taken that they are provided with Necessaries according to the Schedule anexed and as it is declared in those regulation that in any Corps when they have not been complyed with the commanding Office of such Corps will be held [indecipherable] to His Majesty for disobedience of His Orders.

Lieut Colne Foveaux feels it His indispensable duty to declare His determination of carying them into effect as far as the peculiar circumstances of this Colony will admit and He consequently expects that when the Companys books are produced for his inspection on the 20th of each Month according to a former Regimental order) the Accompts of the Non Comd Officers and Privates will be found exactly conformable to the above quoted Orders and the regulation of His Majesty and that no Charge will be made, nor no debt appear but such as these orders and regulations will perfectly Justify that every article furnished to the Soldiers together in the prices shall be particularly inverted and that it be specified in the receipt signed by them wether the ballances were paid into their hands in money or in the bills of the Officer paying the Company as directed in the Regimental order of the 14th August last.

For the information of the N. Com. Officers and Privates in Lieutenant, Colne Foveaux hereby directs the acting Adj. to cause the Schedule above alluded to be inverted in the orderly Book of each Company and a copy of it together with this Order to be sent by the first oppertunity to the several detachments as out of orders.

Scheduled
Infantry

List of Clothing and Necessaries with which a soldier of Infantry of the Line servicing in Europe or North America is to be at all times provided and in which he is to be kept complete by sanding articles furnished by the Colonel Or at the expence of the Public or by the stoppage of One shilling and sixpence a week from His pay sanctioned by the preceding Warrant.

Furnished in the First Instance by the Colonel

Articles of Cloathing
(One Regimental Cap with coccade, feather & Tuft
(One Regimental Coat
(One Waistcoat
(One pr Breeches
(One pr Shoes

[Page 132]

Articles of Necessaries

Furnished in the first Instance at the expence ) One Regimental Great Coat
Partly of the Colonel and partly of the Public)

These Articles with Oil Emery and Brick dust) Turn screw Brush & Warm
an allowed for by the Public to the extent of )
2s/9d per annum for effectives in Caps at )
home, on other stations they are paid for by )
Men

One pair of Shoes )
One pair of Cloth black long Gaiters )
Three shirts )
Three pair of worsted yarn Stockings )
Worsted or Yarn Mits during the Winter )
One Black Stock )
One Fossaging Cap ) Paid for by the Men
One Knapsack )
One Cloths Brush )
Three Shoe Brushes )
Black Ball )
Hair Ribbond & Leather )
Two Combi )
Straps for carrying the Great Coat )

Memo: The Corps that Wear Pantaloon short black gaiters are to be provided as necessary instead of long black Gaiters.

W Lawyer
Acting Adjutant

[Page 133]

On His Majestys Service

Captain Piper
&c &c &c

Reg Orders
Norfolk Island

[Page 134]

Extract of a Letter to His the Duke of Portland 14 Novr 1802 par 6

Of the Wild battle, I can say but little from my own Observation as yet. My numerous and Constant Avocations having hitherto prevented me from going where they Required. But I hope ere long to make a Report from my own Observation. Some time ago, a Drum was accidentally beat in the Woods, the Herds of Lame Cattle most of which was scarcely within hearing came with great haste to the spot and surrounded the Drummer. From this Circumstance two men accustomed to the place where the wild cattle resorted, were sent with the Drummer. On their return they reported that they went to the Mountains and having fallen in with tracks of the Cattle on this Side the Nepean they soon after discovered a herd of near three hundred. And on beating the Drum the Cattle advanced, but seeing the Men, run away – they tried the experiment of beating the drum [indecipherable] and had the same effect a proof they may be drawn together by that Means. And this may certainly lead to our hitting on some plan to take them hereafter. It is generally thought by those who visit the Mountains, that the Cattle will never be able to pass that Barrier And that in course of time they will return towards Parramatta [indecipherable] a much to be apprehended that the fugitives who frequently assures in the Woods will destroy many of them. Nevertheless leaving them in the Situation they are in for some time longer, appears the most adviseable Measure.

Those who have gone out fully persuaded of bringing in a part of the Wild Cattle, have all been unsuccessful

To Lord Hobart October 30 1802 – Paragraph 16

[Page 135]

owing to their ferocity. Future Efforts may be more fortunate; But I cannot help thinking it will be more advantageous to leave them quiet on this side the Mountains has returned from his first trial with little hope of effecting it on making any New discovery Except a very imperfect Lime Stone, and a better kind of Iron Ore than has yet been found. He saw two herds of the Wild Cattle of about 200 in each Herd which were too ferocious to Approach – his next Journey which he is now preparing for I hope will be successful as he is sanguine in his Expectations of passing the Mountain.

21st December 1802
Paragraph 7

In my last I had the honor of informing your Lordship, that having taking Ensign Barralier as my Aid du Camp, that he was set out on a second Journey to the Mountains; After an Absence of Seven weeks he returned a few days ago, having penetrated 140 Miles to the Westward of Parramatta And 100 Miles in the Mountains which he was enabled to persuasion by the Depots of Provisions established at convenient distances for his party. The result of his Journey is that the formidable Barrier is impassable for Man with every probability that no part of the numerous Wild Cattle have got beyond these Mountains which so far secure them to the future advantage of this Colony unless they take a south route as some [indecipherable] obtained here that the range terminates about Port [indecipherable]. To ascertain this point, I intend sending Mr Barralier shortly to Port [indecipherable] And to

[Page 136]

penetrate as [indecipherable] as he can to the Westward from thence. The particular detail of this last Journey and Chart shall be forwarded by the first direct Conveyance, as it is not yet assigned. Since parties have lately been sent out to endeavor bringing in a part of the Cattle. But I am sorry to say without success owing to the Wild and ferocious States of those Animals. However, no means will be left untried to recover a part of them if possible.

To Lord Hobart Aug 7th 1803

In my Letter by the Glatton, I informed Your Lordship of the long Journey Ensn Barralier had taken into the Mountains also the almost entire impracticability of the Wild Cattle being able to pass that Barrier. Also of the unsuccessful Attempt that had been made to recover some of them. I also communicated my intention of trying to get some of the last of Bulls by shooting them and salting the Beef in the Winter Months. Soon after the Glatton’s departure I sent a party under the direction of a Man I thought might be confided in. They killed three Bulls and caught two Calves. But as I found the Cattle had retreated among the Gullies in the interior of the Mountains, I withdrew the party and published the Proclamation contained in the General Orders. As it will evidently lead to a greater future Advantage than molesting them at present, without we had a chance of succeeding in procuring a Number of them.

To Lord Hobart March 1st 1804.

Your Lordship will have learned by the Return of the Glatton that the Cattle contracted with Mr Campbell arrived here the 12th Feby 1802 – not one of those purchased have died, but have greatly improved, as they were all Young Cows. They are kept in a Herd by themselves and have mostly doubled their Numbers. In my former Letters, I have possessed Your Lordship of what has come to my knowledge from the

[Page 137]

Information of those [indecipherable] to inspect and endeavor to take the Wild Cattle or be part of their Increase that strayed from hence at first forming the Settlement in 1788 which have so greatly multiplied Our Efforts have not succeeded beyond taking two Calves which now herd with the tame Cattle and Six Stray Bulls, which were killed and salted for Public use during last Winter. An Effort had been previously made for enticing them with Tame Cattle And trying to surround them with Men and Horses and driving a large Herd of 200 towards the Nepean. But this also failed after the first Attempt. I therefore judged it most adviseable to let them be undisturbd for some time When I heard of the Calcutta’s Arrival at Port Phillip and assuring myself that no Ships would arrive for a certain period, I visited that part of the Country between the Nepean and the Mountains where the Wild Cattle mostly resort. In this Journey, as our Router extended 18 Miles beyond the Nepean in one direction and 15 in another I saw much of that fine Country, which far exceeds the Accounts I had heard of it. Nor can any description of mine give an Idea of its great Advantages and Beauty in every respect except the convenience of Water Carriage; on Streams sufficient for Water, Mills, altho’ there is an Abundance everywhere for all domestic purposes And for Stock. The great extent of fine Country between the Nepean and the Mountains (the face of which is Hill and Dale, covered with the most luxuriant pasturage and goo Soil, and the Trees growing at a distance from each other which widens from the point Markt A in the Chart and extends to the South West forming the most inviting and extensive Country for the Comfort and benefit of the Cultivator And Grazier. As I was not more than a day in the Country where the Cattle resort I saw but few of them. Yet the tracks and Cross tracks

[Page 138]

Sir,
I have the Honor of [indecipherable][indecipherable]. The receipt of your letter of the 15th Inst April, stating that, you are directed by the Lieutenant Governor to request I will state for his Information whether by the Patent of the Colony he is authorized to decide upon Appeals or to interpose in cases which occurred previous to his informing the Government”.

As the Patent [indecipherable] our Wise and Pleasure is that he, she or they may appeal to the Governor of the Eastern Coast of New South Wales and the park adjacent or in case of his Death or Absence to the Lieut Govr for the time being whom [indecipherable] do hereby empower and authorize to hear and determine the same” I am clearly opinion that it is in the Competence of Lieut Govr Potters to hear and determine such Appeals, as effectually to all intents and purposes, as if such causes of Appeal had occurred during his Government.

I have the Honor to be Sir your most [indecipherable] Richoo Atkins [indecipherable]

April 1809
[indecipherable] Esq
c &c &c

[Page 139]

Sydney Apl 20 1809 from Judge Atkins

No 38

Sunday papers [indecipherable]

Service

James Ginucane Esq
&c &c &c

[Page 140]

Commissary’s Office Sydney
March 8th 1809

Sir
I have the Honor of transmitting you, a statement of the remains of salt provisions now in Store, and the Number of weeks the same will last for the supply of those Persons necessarily victualed by Government at the established ration.

As it appears by such statement that there are salt provisions sufficient for the supply of 364 full rations. for 53 weeks, but as the Civil & military victualed at Sydney Parramatta & Hawkesbury are no in a great measure supplied with fresh Pork and as I conceive the recourses of this Colony are fully sufficient to continue these supplies provided no unforseen casualties happen, the quantity of salt-provisions now in store will be equal to twenty weeks supply for the out settlements viz Newcastle, Hobart Town, Port Dalrymple and Norfolk Island at the number stated in their last returns & also for the number of Persons victualed at this place and at Parramatta & Hawkesbury; I therefore presume to suggest that the supplies of salt Provisions to be brought hither should be limited to six months for the better number of persons to be forewarded to as to arrive here in the course of next year.

I have also the Honor to transmit to you an Account of the stores necessarily to be sent for the

To His Honor Lieutenant Governor Paterson

[in margin]

Sydney – 1628
Parramatta – 503
Hawkesbury – 115
Newcastle – 106
Derwent – 830
Dalrymple – 240
Norfolk Island – 200
Extramina – 20
Resource – 5
3,647

Newcastle – 106
Derwent – 830
Dalrymple – 240
Norfolk Is – 200
Extramina – 2-
Resource – 5
1401

Sydney – 938 Prisoners
Parramatta – 368
Hawkesbury – 61
2768

[Page 141]

use of this Colony & for the purpose of Barter for Grain and animal food in which demand have confined myself those Articles that are in Greatest request and [indecipherable] for the rise of the Colony.

I have the Honor to be
Sir Your most obedient Humble Servant
R Fitz

[Page 142]

His Honor the Lieut Governor

G Blaxland Esquire, Concerning exchanging Grant of Land, April 2nd 1809

Sir,
From want of knowledge of the Climate and soil of this country when I first arrived, I pitched upon a tract of Land on the other side of Farm Cove which from experience I have found of no use to me it being, unhealthy for stock and too hilly for ploughing under which circumstances I have to request your Honor will allow me to give up the said tract for Two thousand Acres and that you will allow me to take another tract of land instead of it some where contiguous to my Grant at the South Creek where I find the cattle do remarkably well and I can use the plough immediately.

I remain Your Honr much obliged and Obeds
G Blaxland

Sydney Apr 12 1809
His Honor, the Lt Govr

[Page 143]

Sydney, Saturday Night, 20th Dec 1809

Dr Governor Paterson presents his compliments to Governor Macquarie, begs leave to acquaint him that the necessary orders have been issued to the troops, to be in readiness to receive His Excellency on landing tomorrow Morning.

[Page 144]

Sydney 30th Decr 1809

From

Lt Govr Paterson

[Page 145]

Macquarie announcing his arrival and his taking charge of the Colony, to Col. Paterson.

28 Dec. 1809

[Page 146]

Copy

H.M.S. Dromedary
Port Jackson 28th Decr 1809
Thursday 10 a.m.

Governor Macquarie presents Compliments to Colonel Paterson and has the pleasure to inform him of his safe arrival here about half an hour ago from England with the 73rd Regt on board His Majesty’s ships Hindustan & Dromedary, to take charge of the Government of this Territory. The Ships have been obliged to com to anchor here for the present owing to contrary winds, but Governor Macquarie hopes they will be able to get up to Sydney tomorrow, when he will have the pleasure of seeing Colonel Paterson.

To Colonel Paterson Lt Govr, Sydney

[Page 147]

On board H.M.S. Dromedary, Sydney Cove, Saturday 30th Dec 1809, Half past six.

Govr Macquarie has the pleasure to inform Lt Govr Paterson that the two ships have at length anchored here, and that he intends to land tomorrow morning at 10 o’clock at Sydney and requests Col. Paterson will be so good as to direct the 102 Regt to Parade under arms at that Hour to receive him and line the Street from the Wharf to the Government House; where Govr Macquarie hopes to meet the Lieut. Governor.

To Col. Paterson
Lt. Govr Sydney

[Page 148]

Govt After Orders
Sat 13th Jany 1810

His Excellency the Governor requests Colonel Paterson will cause the Public Accounts, any way connected with the Periods to commanded in the Colony, to be closed up to the 31st December last inclusive, as His Excellency judges it irregular to make himself responsible for any Public Transaction, which took place prior to his taking upon himself the Administration of the Government.

And all Persons holding Government Receipts given by the Respective StoreKeepers having charge of the Stores in this Settlement, in payment for Grain, Animal Food, and Potatoes, or having any other claims for Purchases made on account of Government, are desired to present them for payment immediately to the late Acting Commissary (Mr. Broughton) to the end that they may be finally settled.

And it having been represented to His Excellency the governor, that on former occasions, when Persons who held the Supreme Government of this Colony were about to take their departure for England, much difficulty had arisen in collecting the Outstanding Receipts for consolidation, and that several persons omitted giving them in for that purpose, untill after the departure of such person. His Excellency therefore hereby Publishes and declares, that he will not hold himself responsible in any way, for any Unsettled Account, unconnected with his Government, of which he desires All Person’s to take particular notice, as any who shall act in disobedience

[Page 149]

disobedience of this Order, must take the consequence upon themselves.

L. Macquarie

By His Excellency’s Command
Major J.T. Campbell, Secy

[Page 150]

Government House
28th Feby 1810

Gentlemen
It is my direction that you go forthwith on Board the Armi Transport now arrived from England, and take a complete Muster in the usual Manner of all the Convicts on board said vessel; and I hereby require the Master or Commander of said Vessel on seeing these instructions, to give you all such papers and other assistance as may be necessary to effecting that object in the most complete manner possible – And I further

To J.T. Campbell Esqr Secy
William Broughton Esqr. Depy Commissary

[Page 151]

directs that the Capn or Commander shall not permit any Intercourse whatever between said Prisoners and any persons going on board said Ship, or any Letters to be delivered to them.

I am Gentlemen Your most obedient Servt
L. Macquarie

[Page 152]

From the Govr ordering a List of Convicts to be made out for the Armi [indecipherable]. Date 28th Feby 1810.

John Thomas Campbell Esq, Secy
and William Broughton Esq, Depy Commissary

[Page 153]

Farm Cove May 13th 1810

Sir
The pressure of my circumstances will I trust plead my excuse for thus early after the departure of the Ships intruding myself on the notice of Your Excellency – Upwards of six weeks since Mrs Speed lay in of a son who I delayed soliciting Your Excellency kindly to add to the number of my family on the Store in compliance with Your Excellency’s directions not to be applied to on any subject of private concern. The enormous expences of Mrs Speed’s confinement with the addition attendant on sickness reduces me to the necessity of intruding on that humane and benevolent attention Your Excellency has shewn to myself & family by soliciting the favour of an order for my being allowed to purchase some Gallons of Spirits from the Store, the quantity submit to Your Excellency’s humane & liberal feelings.

The kindness of Mr Lord has relieved me

[Page 154]

from the pressure of House Rent he having given me his right in this house and ground referring me to Your Excellency for a confirmation which I shall hereafter submit when Your Excellency may be at leisure to attend to my solicitation.

Had I been a dishonest man or committed what has by perjury & the worst of crimes been magnified into a breach of the law or had I committed that act with a view to pecuniary advantage I should not now be obliged to submit the situation of myself and family to the humane consideration of Your Excellency, but I have dealt in honor – I received not a shilling with nor have I the expectantcy of one from either marriage and I married from a full conviction of right – I paid all my debts prior to my leaving England except some which were contracted by my first wife for the non-payment of which I am by some accused of dishonesty and the man otherwise respectable I am told who does

[Page 155]

now keep & has kept my first wife near eighteen Years which we have been separated & who paid every expence of the prosecution has endeavoured by every possible means to vilify my character but I hope the Almighty will bless me with life to enable me to bring the contrivers of my ruin to punishment.

I trust Your Excellency will feel that Admiral Hunter who is a man of strict honor would not have recommended a man of even doubtful character in such strong terms to the notice of Your Excellency and I have the letters of many under whom I have had the honor of serving to produce which will be found as the Duke of Ken in one of His Royal Highnesses letters to me terms them “Honorable and unequivocal “testimonials of my conduct”.

I beg to repeat my hope of a pardon for the liberty I have taken in making my present solicitation and that when Your Excellency shall consider the enormous expence of Wine and other articles of comfort necessary for Mrs Speed in her

[Page 156]

lying in and subsequent illness from a cold as also the privation I am obliged to suffer who have all my life been accustomed to live like a gentleman I shall not solicit in vain for Your Excellency’s extending the humanity I have already experienced by the temporary relief of some spirits from the store & for my newborn child to be added to the number of my family now a wife and three children at present receiving rations.

I have the honor to be, Sir
With the utmost respect and gratitude Your Excellency’s most obliged, most obedient & most devoted humble servant, W.I. Speed

His Excellency Governor Macquarie &c &c &c

[Page 157]

13 May 1810

Answr
Mrs Speed’s Child to be put on the Stores – but no Spirits can be issued to him at present, there being more to spare for Private Individuals.

L.M.

[Page 158]

Mr Speed md 13 May 1810

His Excellency Governor Macquarie
&c &c &c

[Page 159]

Mr McArthur presents her compliments to Mr Campbell and will be exceedingly obliged if he will have the goodness to copy from the Inclosed Books, the times when the sentence of the prisoner expires, whose name he is [indecipherable].

Mrs McArthur hopes Mr Campbell will excuse this trouble which she would not willingly have given but the man has himself very troublesome, by absconding from his employment, without leave, under presence of coming to Sydney for his Certificate his duty as a Shiphand has consequently been neglected, and

[Page 160]

his examples unfortunately has had too prevailing an influence over the conduct of other of her Servants.

Elizabeth Farm
Parramatta May 25th

[Page 161]

From Mrs McArthur at Parramatta
Recd & Ansd: 15 May 1810

To Campbell Esqr

Secretary’s Office

[Page 162]

Dennis Sullivan. Ship’s Tillichersy

27 Years of Age when convicted, Mrs McArthur does not remember from what part of Ireland. The sentence was for seven years & she thinks it [indecipherable] about February 1811.

[Page 163]

Copy
Headquarters, Sydney
18th Decr 1810

Sir
Amongst other Public Dispatches which I had the honor to receive from the Comr in Chief of the Forces, by the Indian Transport Convict Ship recently arrived here from England, the enclosed Letter from Lt Col. Torrens Mily Secry, to the Comr in Chief with its accompanying [indecipherable] came to hand, and which I now transmit to you for your information, requesting you will be so good as to communicate The contents thereof to [indecipherable] Mr. McIntosh and require him forthwith to furnish you for my information, with a written Statement of [indecipherable] of his conduct, respecting the [indecipherable] payment of his Dept to Messrs Scott & Co in order that may [indecipherable] the to me home and the Comr in Chief.

You will also be so good as to Direct to Dr Mr McIntosh to adopt the necessary Measure for the liquidation Debts at home with the least possible delay.

I have the honor to be, Sir Your most obedt Servt

Lt. Col. O’Connell, Comr 73 Reg

L.M. Col. Com. Of the Forces

[Page 164]

73 Papers

[Page 165]

Sir,
I was favoured with your letter of yesterday. The Spirit of Laws was in my possession long before Governor Bligh’s arrest. Bason’s Abridgment of the Laws I took from Government House, with the [indecipherable] of Colonel (indecipherable). These Books, being the property of Colonel Bligh. These books I left in the Judge Advocate’s Office. The Theatre D’Agriculture I never saw.

I have the honor to be Sir your most Obt Servt Md Atkins

IJ Campbell Esq Secy

[Page 166]

Duplicate
Sydney Cove October 15th 1810

Sir
I have the Honor to transmit to Your Excellency the inclosed letter from Ensign Huey requesting leave to dispose of his commission in the 73rd Reg, which I request you will recommend to the favourable consideration of the Commander in Chief.

I beg also to recommend to your Excellency’s consideration Mr Huey’s application for leave to return to Europe as a favourable opportunity now offers, and it would be injurious to the young man’s private interest to be detained in this country until an answer was received from the Commander in Chief.

I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your Most Obedt Servt, W.C. O’Connell,
L. Col. Comr, 1st Battn 73 Reg.

His Excellency
Colonel Macquarie, &c &c &c

[Page 167]

Duplicate
Sydney Cove, New South Wales
October 12th 1810

Sir
My private affairs in Europe demanding my presence there very much and rendering it extremely prejudicial to my interest to continue any longer in His Majesty’s Service, I have to request you will obtain leave for me to sell my Ensigncy in the 73 Regiment which I have purchased, and that you will also solicit the commander of the Forces to grant me Leave to proceed to England in the Brig Atalanta, without waiting for the Sanction of the Commander in Chief for the disposal of my Commission.

I have the Honor to be, Sir, your most obt Humble Servt
A Huey, Ensign 73 Regt

Lieut Col O’Connell
Commdr 73 Regt

[Page 168]

Sir
The Deeds of my Estates being now made out the grand obstacle which has so long prevented me from pursuing my farming concerns is removed – but that has come to pass which I long ago foresaw, & therefore press upon your Excellency’s consideration, my Capital is exhausted. I do not wish to tease your Excellency into a compliance with my requests, but I wish the busyness settled, and if I know a mode of application, or manner of address, more agreeable to your Excellency than another, that I assure you, I should not only think it was my Interest & my Duty to adopt, but it would be also my inclination. I wish to be respectful, but I wish to be explicit, for upon your excellency’s Decision depends whether after having been tortured for four years with successive disappointments I shall be enabled to establish myself in this colony, or, after having lost so valuable a portion of my Life, it & a considerable Capital, I shall be compelled to return to England. The case, submitted to your decision is the simplest, the rule I laid down for myself was this, that till I had received a Legal title to my Estate I should do nothing but what was absolutely necessary, therefore everything [indecipherable] has been provisional, nor can I think that any

[Page 169]

person who knows the nature of Landed property & English law, will blame me for not clearing & building upon Land, which, not only might have been taken from me by any change of administration, but which I could not possibly have devised.

The principle I wish your Excellency to adopt is that you will consider me as a New Settler, & grant me the Aids & assistances accordingly – this is necessary for I have almost every thing to do like a New Settler with the disadvantage of an exhausted Capital, I have my House & offices to build, my Land to clear, & every larger instrument of agriculture to purchase. I may strengthen my case by observing that it is customary to give the indulgences of a New Settler to those who become agricultural Settlers though they may have been long in the Colony victualled from the Stores, & who, instead of having lost their capital, as I have, have on the contrary made little fortunes by coming to this Colony. My case appears to me a very plain one. If I have been ruined by my own negligence or folly, the Government has nothing to do with it, but if confiding in the promises of his Majesty’s Ministers I have come to this Colony, & owing to some error in the public offices in England or some confusion in the Colony I was denyed what I came so far to obtain, & have in consequence greatly suffic’d, the Government is bound, if not in Law, in honor to assist me, more particularly, when it is to

[Page 170]

enable me to fulfil the purpose of my coming to their Colony.

Any decision your Excellency may make upon my claims, even an absolute refusal of any further aide, will be preferable to a state of uncertainty. There are but two ways by which I can save myself from ruin. The one is immediately on the assurance of assistance to commence farming, the other is to place my affairs on the smallest expenditure till I can quit the Colony. Should I now commence the laborious undertaking of establishing a farm & in a few months after have my men put off the Stores I should be compelled to give it up, as it is with great Difficulty that I can now pay my Men for their Extra time, & it would be impossible for me to support them if off the Shores. I therefore beg if your Excellency cannot give me the Aids to Assistance – required that you will allow me to dispose of my Estates without enforcing the new clauses relating to the alienation of Landed Property. In a few months more I shall have fulfilld the spirit of the regulations on this Head as they stood when I arrived in the Colony – Every part of my conduct may [indecipherable] your Excellency that did not come here to get Estates & then sell them, I arrived at an unfortunate period & having met with great disappointments I have a claim upon the liberality of Government.

Had I obtained on my arrival in this Colony what I

[Page 171]

had an undoubted claim to, I should not now have to supplicate your Excellency for further assistance – I might have been a useful man in a New Colony – this was expected Mr Windham & Sir Geo. Shee – I have not [indecipherable] – but it has not been my fault.

I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obed Serv
Robert Townson

Sydney July 7th 1811

To His Excellency Governor McQuarrie, &c &c &c

[Page 172]

Sir

When his Excellency was at Mr Thompson’s farm I requestd Mr Moore to point out to his Excelly the necessity of my having the right of passing from my farm at Bunburycurran to Georges River Road, & If I understood Mr Moore, his Excell. Said I should continue the same Road I had been accustomed to travel.

As all the allotment over which I pass between my farm and Capt Bunker are, as far as I know, unoccupied I should suppose it is immaterial whether I travel exactly the Same Road or not. The Road I had hitherto traveld had two or three great Defects which I avoid by taking another direction. I had to pass a Deep Creek or Ravine when I was obliged to unload my Cart, pass over a Rich flat, boggy in wet weather, & then to ascend a very steep Hill impassable, or nearly so to a loaded Cart.

I have now made at my own Expence a substantial Bridge over the same Creek or Ravine but about five or six hundred yards higher than where I used to pass it

[Page 173]

R then ascend more to the Northward by a more gradual ascent.

I consider this Change favourable to the proprietors of the several allotments through which I pass on the road will be nearer this Backline, & the least likely to be soon enclosed. This Road comes to my farm to the Northward of my present stockyards & may thence be continued Westward to any farms that may lay in that direction – but I beg there may be no Road through my farm to the Southward of my stockyards on the Land between threes yards & the Creek will be enclosed.

The Bridge I have made is I believe on Mr Underwoods allotment, & may be pulled down by him, or by any one to whom he may sell his Ground, unless some provisions is made by his Excellency. These are matters of great moment to prevent future litigation – Should I be at the mercy of all Hope through whose grounds I must pass to get to Liverpool my farm would scarce be worth having, & had the public the right of passing over the only part of my ground fit for cultivation, close by my House & through my future enclosures it would be a great injury to my farm & some of great personal annoyance. I hope his Excellency

[Page 174]

will see the reasonableness of my requests & will give orders accordingly.

I am, Sir, Your most Obedient Servant, Robert Townson

Sydney Pitts Street
26 Dec 1810

[Page 175]

From Dr Townson delivered by himself 26 Dec 1810

J.T. Campbell Esq.
Secretary &c &c &c

[Page 176]

Newcastle 12th August 1809

Sir,

I am sorry to hear of the Dreadful inundation at the Hawkesbury, we have had the heaviest rain here, I ever saw, the water quite forcible at the mouth of the River and some distance out at [indecipherable]

I am going up the River for five and six days, I set off tomorrow morning, to judge if the River is subject to be flooded like the Hawkesbury on my return I will give you every information.

I have sent up Morris and Williams two prisoners’ evidence against Private Shos Finnigan I hope you will order them to be sent back to this settlement also Corporal Woodcock and Private William Paye.

My complaints against Finnyson for holding and being in conversation, with prisoners of bad Characters, contrary to my orders; and by making use of improper language to Prisoners.

I have received a letter from Mr [indecipherable] desiring me to enquire the cases from the Store keeper of the difference of ration between the stores of this place and Sydney. I have never received any orders to alter the ration at this place, this place is

[Page 177]

different from that of Sydney, the prisoner’s here have no opportunity to get anything in addition to their ration. I have now put them on the ration agreeable to Mr [indecipherable] order.

I have the Honor to be Sir, your most obedient Humble Servant
[indecipherable]

To Lieut Governor Paterson
&c &c &c, Sydney

[Page 178]

Lt Lawson
12 [indecipherable]

In Service
To His Honor, Lieut Governor Paterson
&c &c &c, Sydney

[Page 179]

Newcastle, 4th August 1809

Dear Sir

Enclosed you will receive the monthly Statement, and a small demand for Stores, also the bill of Laiden Shipped, on board of the Lady Nelson,….

Whenever the bill of Laiden shipped on board of the whole, on [indecipherable] Thompsons, amount [indecipherable] to the Hawkesbury.

I should have been very happy to have got up for a few days, but as it don’t meet with Colonel Paterson’s wish for me, to come up immediately I hope he will allow me to go up the latter end of next month.

And for the present if he can allow William Davis Soldier to remain at my farm it will oblige me very much

[Page 180]

I have no Soldier Servant here.

I think Hays is a depraved Character as any in N.S.Wales. I think when you see his infamous letters you will agree with me. I have several Scandalous letters in my possession, and any other officer besides my self would have treated him in a very different manner. This fellow made Mr Villiers his dupe and had I taken the Command immediately after Mr Throsby I should not have had one third the trouble I have had. This Hay’s must flatter himself he can trifle with Gentleman’s Character with Impunity.

I have no prisoners in Irons. I have punished, but very few should any of the prisoners run from this settlement to Sydney. I hope Colonel Paterson will give directions for them to be sent back by the

[Page 181]

first conveyance for many of the Prisoners would leave the settlement if they thought there was the least probability of their being at large, without detection.

I went with a Constable to [indecipherable] Hooks, that to search for the Articles you mention, the Earrings I saw when she first came down, she offered them for sale, but now are not to be found, the breastpin not to be found, George cloak not to be found. I turned her bed inside out, a large shawl I have sent you, I understand from a woman whom she lodged with, she told him she sold a Cloak a few days before she was sent down, but she is a Lady that will make no confession.

We have had a great quantity of rain here, I am fearful you have had a flood at the Hawkesbury, for a great deal of corn found along the beach

[Page 182]

near this place.

I remain, Dear Sir, yours Sincerely

[indecipherable]

Lt Lawson
4th August 1809

[Page 183]

Newcastle 10th Sept 1809

Sir,

Enclosed you will receive the Bills of Laiden, Shipped on board the Speedwell Resource – Sally, and Eliza, also the monthly Statement/ receipt for Provisions received by the Resource, and a small demand for Stores.

The four men I mention to you who had taken to the bush, gave themselves up almost starved to death. I did not punish them, one of the same men has again taken to the bush, the name of Haywood. If he should reach Sydney pray send him back. I shall have a raft of Cedar down by Friday and another the week following.

I have about Two thousand Bushells of lime ready – but I am not able to carry lime burning on for want of men.

Lt Lawson
10 Sept 1809

On Service

James Finnucane Esquire
Secretary to His Honor
The Lieut Governor, Sydney

[Page 184]

I am Sir your most obe. Servant, Lt Lawson

[Page 185]

Sir

I am sorry to be under the necessity of requiring you as an Officer under my Command & the head of the Gunroom Mess – to demand of the Officers & [indecipherable] them also had acute [indecipherable] when Capt Munster as admitted a Number of that Mess [indecipherable] to the Buffalo’s [indecipherable], Port Jackson; whether you or they individually were either directly or indirectly advised by one or any of my Family to keep Captain Munster out of the Rum room Shop if possible”?

I request you will sell the Officers today on the business. I transmit on their individual [indecipherable] signed under this order, which you will do well to inform Capt Munster of [indecipherable] before you on the officers.

I am Sir, Your Honorable Servant, Philip Gidley King, principal Commander, NSW Buffalo
June 21, 1807

Sir
In answer to the requisition contained in the above orders, I have to reply that I now have the honour to have the Slightest conversation with you or any of your family, respecting Captain Houstoun Capt a Member of the Gun room Mess if possible.

June 21st 1807

I have the honor to be Sir, Your Obedn, humble Servt, [indecipherable]

[Page 186]

Sir

In Reply to your requisition of this days date respecting Captain Houstoun joining the Gunroom mess of the Buffalo. I do most solemnly assert that I never at any time heard you or any of your family say any thing whatever to prevent Captain Houstoun becoming a member of our Staff or give the slightest intimation that such was your wish.

June 21, 1807

I have the honor to remain, Your obed Servant
[indecipherable], Pursor

Sir

In reply to your request of this day’s date respecting captain Houstouns messing in the Gunroom. I declare that I never heard you or any of your family say any thing on that subject.

I have the honor to remain
Yours Obd Servant, J Macmillan
[indecipherable]

Sir,

In Reply to your Request I have no Recolection of hearing any of my Ship Mates say anything against Capt or Mrs Houstoun joining the Gunroom Ship and I never had any objection myself. Neither have I hear you or any of your familie say so.

I have the Honor to be Your Most Ob He Servant
[indecipherable][indecipherable]

[Page 187]

Sir, In reply to your request of this date respecting Capt Houstoun’s messing the Gunroom, I am well assur’d that I never heard you nor any of your family say any thing on the subject.

June 21st, 1807

I have the honor to remain Sir your Obedn Servt [indecipherable]

Sir

In answer to your request of this day’s date Respecting Captn Houstoun Messing in the Gunrm I do most solemnly declare that I never heard you or any of your family say any thing on that subject.

June 21st 1807

I have the honor to remain Sir Your Obt Servt, [indecipherable]

[Page 188]

On His Majesty's Service

Actg Lieut J Oxley
N M S Buffalo
Rio Janiero

[indecipherable] of the Gun room [indecipherable][indecipherable] respecting Capt Munster.

Reply this June 21st 1807

[Page 189]

Sydney 7 May 1808

Sir

Having Purchased Two Houses in the District called the Barrack district, or Spring Now, for £84 Sterling, during the Administration of Governor Bligh, for which I received a conditional Lease, for fifteen years’ from Lieut Colonel Johnstone, which lease has been by some means mislaid and at present not to be found, I shall hope your Excellency will not deem me troublesome, in requesting as renewal of the lease in order to secure a Home for my family. I am under the necessity of leaving behind, or if this request may interfere with any plan your Excellency may have resolved on, that you will have the goodness to grant me a Certificate that the person in whose profession I leave the same shall Retain the peaceable possession of it until I return to this Country again, in complying with this request, your Excellency will confer on me an obligation, which I shall even retain a grateful sense of.

I have the honor to be your Excellency’s Most obedient, Humble Servant

Lt Lawson

[Page 190]

Answr

The Governor cannot renew any Lease granted by Col Johnston, but the Houses alluded to may be occupied by Lieut Lawson’s Family till his return to the Colony, not exceeding 3 years.

L.M.

[Page 191]

they have made to get at the Watering Places And the great Quantity of their recent Droppings in every place I went over, indicates the Herds being numerous. As Mr Barrallier in his long Journey into the interior, did not see any Herds beyond the place called by the Natives “Natire” which is a ridge of very Steep Rocks – After my return, I directed three persons I could place a confidence in, to go the route most likely to fall in with the Herds. On the Chart, I have delineated their route, and the Number of Wild Cattle they saw at each place; which makes the Estimate of what they really saw and counted. Amount to 630 Head, exclusive of many that they saw and heard but could not count or make any calculation of their great Number which have a very extensive Country covered with the most luxuriant feed for the greatest number of Cattle to increase without repassing or approaching the Nepean for food. As it was the Opinion of one, who had often visited the Cattle, that the Stream names “Stone Quarry” on the Chart, was much resorted to by the Cattle; And having examined it myself, I have it in Contemplation to make an extensive and Strong Enclosure as marked on the Chart, leaving sufficient openings. This Work will last some time from its distance, and it is probably the Cattle will quit the place while that Work is carrying on, but as the Stream is never dry It is equally probably that they will again return to it which may be facilitated by a few tame Cows being put into the Enclosure. Should this fail, I know of no expedient to take them alive; after what has been tried And to kill them would answer no general good purpose. From what I know states in Answer to Your Lordship’s Observations on this Head and in my former Letters. It will appear that no certain dependence can be place on what will no doubt hereafter be of great consequences to the

[Page 192]

Colony – It is on this Account that I humbly conceive no Ground whatever aught to be granted or leased to Individuals on the other side of the Nepean. Respecting our lame Cattle Your Lordship will observe by the Statement of the great Increase we have had last Year and the present remains, including the [indecipherable] that have been given away and lent. N the back of that return I have stated the time the public Stock cold last, if we were obliged to have recourse to it, however, I hope the Increase will prevent that Necessity, I have made no Calculation of the length of time the Stock of Individuals would last, As the Expenditure of that, is confined to the great proportion of People who draw no support from the Public.

December 20th 1804 - paragraph
In my Letter by the Albion, I mentioned the probability of some officer going out to visit the Wild Cattle. In this Journey they reported having seen great Numbers And a vast Number of Young Cattle. Of the Stock there must be a great Abundance, And hereafter hereafter become to plentiful as to approach nearer the Nepean where large Herds of them [indecipherable] resort for Change of Food. However, after the Trials that have been so unsuccessfully made, I cannot but be of opinion that it would be more adviseable to let them alone for some time. As I do not think there is an probability of their being able to pass through the Mountains as every person who has penetrated far into them give an Account of their being unacceptable and void of pathways which must always confine the Wild Cattle to the rich pathways between the Mountains and the Nepean.

[Page 193]

Since writing that Letter, I have discovered an Intention in an Inhabitant here to enter into Partnership with some Americans who have Vessels employed Sealing on the Coast of this Colony And in fact endeavouring to open a communication with the East Indies and American under Sanctions of the American Flag. As this Circumstance And its consequent Evils has required my decided exertion to prevent so obvious an Evil from obtaining I gave the General Order of the 11th Instant, the details of which I respectfully, suggest the necessity of a record Instruction being sent on the important Subject [indecipherable] I hope Your Lordship will consider that I have in those Instances imposed on me by a Sense of Duty, been as circumspect as possible in not involving any Question of dispute with the United States of America.

20th December 1804 – Paragraph 6
Referring Your Lordship to the 16th Paragraph of my General Letter by the Albion, respecting the Inconvenience Sealing Adventurers experience by the Americans resorting to Bass Strait and also the Circumstances of Spirits being brought under Americans Colours which required my issuing the proclamation dated May 26th last. Since then, I am concerned to state such Circumstances respecting the inconveniences of Sealing. As I should consider myself very remiss in concealing from Your Lordship Learning that an Individual at this place was entering into speculative Connections with some Americans which had been here And with others here at the times An application was made for Mr Smith, an American to reside here And to send for a Vessel from America to carry on the Sealing &c. This I pointedly refused and as two American Vessels were there in the Port entering Men to carry on other Fishery Subjects being drawn from this Colony by Strangers for the purpose of ruining those Colonists who had so long been employed in this pursuit and not

[Page 194]

wishing to commit any Act that might involve dispute I deemed it advisable to issue the enclosed General Order of the 11th August 1804 which I hoped would have prevented Acts so injurious to the Interests of this Colony. However by the return of one of those Vessels (the Union of New York after being cleared out and sailed for China, I learned that a quantity of Spirits I had refused possession to be sold from the four American and allowed to be [indecipherable] hence in the Union and taken to Norfolk Island Landed and Sold And as I cannot but suppose this transaction was with the knowledge and Consent of the Officer in Command (Lieutenant Governor Foveaux having quitted the Island, I cannot but consider that officer reprehensible as it had invariably been a rule with Lieutenant Governor Foveaux never to suffer any intercourse with Vessels touching at Norfolk Island who did not produce a Letter from the Governor at their Places, in consequence of which he had sent away Vessels with Spirits without suffering any to be landed. As the officer left in Command, was not ignorant of those Orders, I am Sorry he was persuaded on to Suffer such a deviation which I am very apprehensive will be attended with no good to the Settlers. The Master and Supercargo of the Union I also learned had been suffered to take Eleven Men from the Island for the purpose of carrying on a Voyage of speculation in procuring Sandal Wood among the Friendly and other Islands on their Way to China for which purpose it appeared since the Union returns that a Contract had been made between the Master and an Individual here and Supercargo of the Last Americans to the two latter. It appears he had sold his Cargo of Sealskins and for which payment was to be made from the Sale of the Sandalwood they were to get and with the overflow a Vessel was to be purchased in America to come here for the use of his operations. This Circumstance and indeed every part of the Union’s real destination I was unacquainted with until that Vessel’s return. Otherwise I certainly should have

[Page 195]

prevented it as far as I could such proceedings having the experience of an errant fraud on the American [indecipherable] of the Vessel.

9. Since the Albion Sailed, Accounts have been received from the Derwent that an Abundance of what is called the Right [indecipherable] frequent the Bays in that Neighborhood And according to the Report and [indecipherable] by the master of a Whaler then at the places loading her ship with the [indecipherable] that four or five ships might fill every season which is from May to September. As this, when known will [indecipherable] ships to that place And no doubt several Vessels from America this improper Intercourse will extend to Lieutt Governor Collins’ Settlement – I mention this Circumstance to suggest the

[Page 196]

necessity of Instructions being sent respecting this Intercourse with the Americans which only tends to deprive His Majesty’s Subjects in this Quarter of the only Advantage they at present Obtain from its produce.

Since Writing the preceding part of this Letter, Application has been made by some Individuals to connect themselves with Americans for the Object of procuring a Cargo of Sandalwood carrying it to China and Returning here with the proceeds As I conceive that Measures would lead to opening an Intercourse with this Colony And the Company’s possessions. I have resisted the importunate Solicitations on that behalf as it militates so much against His Majesty’s Instructions Thereon but in continuing those restrictions, I have assured the adventuring Inhabitant being His Majesty’s Subject of my earnest Wish and exertions to promote their Endeavour And of which can offer no better Assurance than the application contained in my separate and particular Letter Sent by the Lady Barlow And I cannot close this Subject without humbly suggesting the necessity of Instructions being sent prescribing the intercourse and connection that may be allowed between the Inhabitants and Americans Nor can I conceal from your Lordship that I respectfully [indecipherable] any other toleration or encouragement beyond relieving their immediate wants, would be highly injurious to the Public Interest and contrive to defeat the Views of Government informing this Colony by taking Convicts from hence.

30th April 1805, Paragraph 9
In a former letter I had the honor of stating the general and individual inconvenience that attended the Americans, not only occupying fishing Stations in and about Vass’s Straits but frequenting this Port from which they have drawn several useful People and in fact depriving the Inhabitants of the only [indecipherable] hitherto acquired. How far this may or may not be allowable, t taken upon me to decided but have requested Instructions thereon. I also stated the Circumstance of a small Vessel belonging to an Individual being sent in

[Page 197]

quest of the Beche de Mar. That Vessel is returned and they failed in that Object yet they acquired another of not less value, namely Sandalwood which is in such great request with the Nations of India and China. It has long been known from the intercourse with the Friendly Islands that Sandalwood and the production of some of the Feejee Islands which are a Group hitherto not much know. The proprietor of this Vessel were inducted to make the Trial from the information of a person who possesses a knowledge with several others were cut off at Tongattaboo one of the Friendly Islands. After going to several of the Feejees and find much difficulty and not a little apprehension for the safety of their small Vessel from the Native’s Attack they accomplished their Object by procuring Fifteen Tons of Sandalwood in exchange for pieces of Iron at an island called by the Natives [indecipherable] – whether it is plentiful or not is doubtful as the people belonging to the Vessel could not land and that carried on board by the Natives was in small quantities – however should it prove abundant and become more easy to obtain it may hereafter be an advantageous Object of Commerce with China.

With a knowledge of these advantages, a desire for Speculation will increase And to keep that desires within due bounds must be the Governor’s Duty as far as it respects Colonial Vessels. But it appears to me not altogether advisable that the Governor should interfere in the commercial destination of Vessels belonging to Merchants resident in the

[Page 198]

claim to navigate in all the Seas East of the Cape of Good, however, the correction of abuses committed his Jurisdiction as Vice-Admiral may claim for Cognizance.

March 15th 1806, Paragraph 36
A little before Christmas a small American Vessel loaded with Spirits arrived here from the Isle of France bound to India with the old Excuse of receiving Repairs, Water &c but in fact to dispose of his Cargo. As the Master produced a Letter to Simeon Lord, a dealer here, who is the person so often alluded to informing unlicenced Connections with Americans. As this letter came from Merchants of the Isle of France, I considered it my duty to inspect it. When I found it contained the Subject of the Inclosure And on demanding to see the Agreement alluded to, he refused it under the plea of having no Copy – I informed My Lord Hobart of the French Vessel L’Adele coming here from the Isle of France And the little Encouragement given him to report his visit. I also transmitted a Copy of My Letter to the Governor of the Isle de France intended to prevent the Intercourse of French Vessels to this Port. A short time after the Adele’s departure, I had some imperfect information that an Agreement had been made between Lord and the French which I directed an officer to enquire into And to signify my disapprobation of any such proceeding the truth of which was denied but the detection of the above Letter convinced me that my Information was correct. I have stated this Circumstance to suggest the Necessity of some decided Instructions being sent as a Guide to future Occurrences of that kind as I am of Opinion that the

[Page 199]

Introduction of Foreigners of any Nation in this peculiar Colony will be productive of the greatest Inconvenience Excluded of their draining these Settlements of the Money that ought to revert to His majesty’s Subjects and not to his Enemies or doubtful Friends. And another Consideration which I could humbly suggest is the Certainty of its opening a Communication with the Company’s Territories which His Majesty’s Instructions pointedly forbids.

[Page 200]

Sundry Extracts &c Communications, respecting the Wild Cattle.

14 Novr 1801 – Dukes of Portland - par 6
30th Octr 1802 – Lord Hobart – par 16
31 Decr 1802 – Lord Hobart – par 7
7th Aug 1803 – Lord Hobart
1 March 1804 – Lord Hobart
30th October 1802 – Duke of Portland
30th October 1802 – Lord Hobart
9th May 1803 – Lord Hobart – par 11
17th Sept 1803 – Lord Hobart
1 March 1804 – Lord Hobart
20 Decr 1804 – Lord Hobart

[Transcribed by Ray King, Margaret Broadfoot, Judy Dawson for the State Library of New South Wales]