Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales
James Macarthur letters received, 1819-1846
A 2922
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[Previous pages are covers]
Macarthur Papers
Volume 26
Letters written to James Macarthur, 1819-46
Anderson, M. – 1843, Je 26, Statement – 222
Bigge, J. T. – 1827, Dec. 12, 18-25, 1830 Sept. 23, 24 – 45-50
Bougainville, H.Y.P.P. – 1829 Dec. 6 – 34-5
Brougham and Vaux, H.P.B. - 1839 My 15 - 162-4
Buller, Charles – 1837 or 1838 – 71 b-c
Burton, Sir W.W. – 1844, My 31, Je 18, 20 – 267-77
Busseuil, F.L. – 1829 Feb. 20, 27-9, 1830, My 1, - 41-3
Byrnes, J. & W. – 1843, Au. 18 – 234-5
Campbell, A.M. – 1838, Je 6 – 122-4
Close, E.C. – 1819, My 20 – 1-2
Coles, A.M. Mrs. – 1838, My 12 – 84-7
Coles, C. – 1838, My 12 – 88-91
Davidson, W.S. – 1846, Jan. 27-31 – 311-4
Donaldson, Sir S.A. – 1837, Oct. 9 – 76-7
Donaldson and Lambert – 1838, Oct. 11 – 132
Duncan, W.A. – 1846, Nov. 21 – 330-3
Faramond, - 1845, Mar. 29 – 285-6
Field, B. – 1830, Ap. 16 – 36-9
Forbes, Sir F. – 1837, Feb. 26 – 72-5
Forrest, Rev. R. – 1843, Jy 5 – 225-9
Gambier, G.C. – 1822, Au. 21 (2) – 3-8
1827, Nov. 12 – 14-7
Gipps, Sir G. – 1843, Jy 5 – 224
Gladstone, W.E. – 1839, Nov. 26, - 173-4
1841, Je 4 – 197 9
1842, Oct. 25, - 212-4
Glennie, J. – 1836, Feb. 12 – 68-70
Goodwin, J. – 1844, Oct. 2 – 278-9
Grant, J.J. – 1845, Nov. 28 – 296-9
Hamilton, E.W.F. – 1843, Jy 8, - 231-3
1846, Oct. 27, - 326-9
Nov. 24 – 334-6
Hawley, J. – 1838, Oct. 16 – 134-6
* Homfray, E.L., Mrs. – 1844, Ap. 26, My 15 – 253-66
Horn, E.K. – 1846, ,Mar. 28 – 315-21
Latrobe, C.J. – 1840, Mar. 9 – 179-82
Lindesay, P. Lt. Col. 39 R – 1834, Au. 6 – 56-67
*Later became Mrs. Kendall
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Macarthur, Sir E. – 1844 ap. to Mrs. E. Homfray – 257-8
Macarthur, E. Miss – (1825?) Dec. 15 – 52-5
Macarthur, John Major Gen. R.M. – 1845, Je 16 – 288-95
1846, Jan. 16 – 307-10
Macleay, W.S. – 1839, Ap. 10 – 156-8
Morton, A. – 1841, Ap. 19 – 193-4
Norman, C. – 1838, My 15, 18 – 98-105
Norman, G.W. – 1838, Nov. 8 – 138-41
1839, Jan. 1, - 142-5
Feb. 4 – 146-149
Mar. 26 – 151-4
Jy 30 – 165-8
Au. 20 – 169-71
1840, Au. 17 – 189-92
1841, Au. 31 – 200-2203
1842, Jan. 7 – 204-7
Jy 29 – 208-11
1843, Feb. 21 – 218-21
Sept. 11 – 237-40
Dec. 13 – 241-4
1844, Jan. 16 – 245-8
Feb. 20 – 249-52
1845, Dec. 18 – 303-6
Norman, S. Mrs. – 1838 Nov. 8 – 141
1839 Feb. 4 – 148-9
1842, Jy 29 – 211
Riddell, C.D. – 1843, Jan. 6 – 215-7
Scott, Rev. T.H. – 1826, Nov. 1 – 10-11
Smith, A.F. – 1845, Je 27 – 300-1
Sons of St. Patrick, - 1839, Mar. 6 Invitation – 150
Stewart, H. – 1838, My 15 – 92-6
My 27 – 110-6
My 28 – 119-21
Au. 22 – 128-30
Stewart, P.M. – 1838, My 24 – 106-9
1840, May 29 – 183-7
Thompson, S.M. Mrs. – 1838, ap. 16 – 79-82
Tingcombe, J. – 1845, Mar. 9 – 282-3
1846, Ap. 15 to J. & W.M. – 322-4
Index to Principal Subjects
Australia – Emigration – 1837 – 72-5
Australia – History – 1846 – 330-3
Bourke, Sir R. – Portraits – 1841 - 193-4
Burton, Sir W.W. – 1841 – 196
Leichhardt, L. – 1846 – 308-9
Macarthur, James – 1839 – 195-69
1841 – 196
Macarthur, Sir W. – 1819 – 1-2
1843 – 222
Macarthur Family – 1829, 27-9 – 41
1830 - 34
New South Wales – 1827 – 18-25
New South Wales – Social Conditions – 1827 – 18-25
Petitions – N.S.W. – 1837 – 76-7, 132
Stone Family – 1819-44 – 148, 152-3, 191-2, 201-2, 104, 251
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1819
My Dear Sir
Griffin will inform you how far and with what success we have proceeded – As we expect to be back at Camden in a day or two will you have the goodness to write to the Govr. informing him of our want of success – and the improbability of our meeting any traces of the objects of our search. At the same time beg him to inform you whether he wishes the party still to continue their search – or to return to Sydney.
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After they come to Camden I would write myself only have not the means.
By the time we return to you an answer for our guidance will no doubt be rec’d.
Your brother is in rude health – but is [indecipherable] he sends his best wishes.
Yours
Very sincerely
EC Close
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H.M.Ship Dauntless – Trincomale – August 21st 1822
My Dear Macarthur
I cannot allow Satellite to depart without sending you a few lines in order to keep that place in your remembrance and that of your family which it is my earnest wish to do, - and feeling this I scarcely need say the degree of pleasure it will always afford me to gain intelligence of the health and happiness of each. Your father I am not likely to forget, his strength of mind, firmness of character and ardent feelings have made an irresistible impression upon my mind, not to be obliterated by my own breast becoming insensible to those qualifications which I, at present, so greatly admire.
The Satellite is to remain with you, but in my opinion not for any length of time, as without the most urgent necessity for a man of war being there, the general system of rigid economy will advise the removal of her. The number of ships on this station is reduced to two frigates, a ship of the Dauntless’ description, and a sloop of war brig. Trincomale establishment is to be entirely removed, the few ships on the station will get what they may want at Bombay without having a regular establishment there. This is solely on account of a reduction of expence. Trincomale is not abandoned because
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it is said to be unhealthy, for even were it more so than it is it would amount to madness to abandon such an advantageous position with respect to our Indian possessions, and such a perfect harbour, without a serious effort to render it habitable. I am not one of those who consider it such a sink of pestilence as many will report it to be. The only thing can be said against it is common to all uncleared countries viz. the occasional appearance of an intermittent fever. I shall now remain there for two or three months. The prospect of going home soon is now removed about a twelvemonth. The reason is that we have to take home a new frigate from Bombay, called the Madagascar, and as she is not to be launched until the latter end of the year, it must be the month of April before I quit India.
For the sake of humanity you will be shocked to hear that Sir Henry Blackwood has refused to take that unfortunate man Drennan to England, or in any way to forward the views of Government with respect to him:- but says I ought not to have taken him on bd. – and therefore I must manage the business myself. This gives me no earthly disquiet on my own account any farther than I think I must make up my mind to run some risk on the poor man’s account in order to prevent his being detained in this climate, away from
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his family for such a cruel length of time. If I do what I am considering about and he should march off I am lost;- but I must turn over the step seriously, considering my complete inability to muster six thousand shillings, much more six thousand pounds. He has conducted himself extremely well since he has been on board, an I have put no sort of restraint upon him.
I wrote to your father from Calcutta which letter I suppose he has recd. sometime ere this reaches you. In case of any delay in it, however, I think it best to say here that the horse arrived in complete health and [indecipherable] and was most thankfully accepted by the old [indecipherable]. Two of the young men who are with me are promoted into Satellite and return to your delightful climate. Lt Crooke is one , and Mr Ellis, the purser, is the other they are both very steady, excellent young men. Dauntless is quite done up, I shall be glad to get rid of her; for she now frets my soul out with her dull sailing.
Farewell, my dear Macarthur, and with kind remembrances to your father and mother brother and sisters individually.
Believe me with warmest wishes for your prosperity and health – Ever most sincerely your’s,
George C. Gambier
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James Macarthur Esqr.
Parramatta
N. S. Wales
G. C. G
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August 21st 1822
My dear Macarthur
Sir Henry Blackwood has gone home. He had most violently mentioned disapprobation of my whole conduct during the late voyage long before I joined him and before he had heard my account of it. Thank God my friends in India have stood firm in their opinions of me, and I have been with ease enabled to give most satisfactory reasons for those parts which he had condemned. As he had constantly, in the most indelicate way reprobated my proceedings, without knowing anything about them, before strangers and in every company you and your family may, and will, most likely hear that he has done so. I think therefore it is but fair to myself to state to you that my conscience is silent, - that he has not been able to make out his case against me, and that upon my word I never exceeded his orders nor did I take the advantage I might have done their tenor. I write this in
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great haste as Satellite is going. I could not forbear however saying these few words in order to counteract any impression your family might have on hearing the general rumour of Sir H. Blackwood’s disapproval particularly if I were totally silent. I am and trust ever shall be ambitious of good men’s opinions – others I care not for. Fear me not in the case above mentioned – I have never acted very wrong you may be sure or he would not have quitted his Jury.
I mentioned Mr Drennan in my other letter to you. Sir Henry has left him – the present commander in chief takes up the business officially.
Adieu – remembrance to your family.
Yours ever
George C. Gambier
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James Macarthur Esqr.
Parramatta
N. S. Wales
G. C. G.
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Parramatta November 1st 1826
Sirs
His Majesty having been pleased to command that I should form one or more establishments for the civilisation of the native blacks of this Colony; with a view that I may submit some plan to the Governor for His Excellency’s approbation I could much wish to avail myself of your long residence in the Colony and experience of the habits and manners of these people.
Should the request not be
Jas. & Wm. Macarthur’s Esqr’s
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be considered too importunate you would confer an essential obligation on me by favouring me with your opinions and at the same time it would be furthering the benevolent views and interest which the King has taken on the behalf of these wandering and unhappy beings.
I have the honor to remain
Sirs
Your obedt. Servt.
T H Scott
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[Blank page]
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On HMS
Jas. McArthur Esq
Parramatta
[indecipherable] Scott
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Harley Street – London – November 12th 1827
My Dear Macarthur
It is with sincere pleasure that I have to acknowledge yours by the Warspite. Pleasure unmired when I keep my eye steadily fixed upon your account of yourself and your family. The state of the colony is alarming but the nature of the evil which creates that alarm is so familiar to my mind that it does not surprise, it only confirms my (at times I would almost believe unfounded,) forebodings. Your picture is a perfect miniature of this country, but here it is more difficult to see and believe the sort of charnel-house corruption which is rapidly spreading its fearful taint over, what is commonly called, the dregs of the people. The work, however silently it is carried on at present, is not the less sure. Those all–levelling revolutionary principles evidenced about five and thirty years ago in France are fast taking root here, and that which strengthens the belief that fruit will be produced almost to a certainty is that they are sown in the self-same soil infidelity and open, daring, unblushing Atheism. It is a fearful thing [continued on Page 19]
[The following written across the page.]
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most acceptable, pray give my kindest remembrances to him and all your family. I can safely say the pleasurable recollections of my visit to your hospitable shore are mutual. No part of my voyage is oftener dwelt upon that it. Its uncommonly fine climate and the harbour with numerous other natural advantages are very frequently the home of my unqualified admiration. I have not had the pleasure of seeing Dundas since his return or I should have got much from him about you. Dr Nisbet I hope to catch, though hitherto we have missed each other. For the present then farewell and believe me ever My dear Macarthur
Your’s most truly.
George C Gambier
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for a nation to have the great mass of her people assuring themselves that there is no Devine retributive Justice, that Death is an eternal Sleep – we have once seen what sort of a creature man is under the influence of a belief so comforting to the wretched soul where the host of dark passions are only restrained from bursting forth from their prison house by the fear of consequences. I say Man generally, for I would not sit in judgement upon my fellow-creatures, we all bear the same nature, and I must sadly pervert the measure of understanding allotted to me if I should go about to persuade myself that there was any other difference than what arises from education blessed and confirmed by Christ’s restraining grace. The deifyers of man’s intellect would persuade me that I am not to believe things I cannot understand that therefore if I would be wise I must of necessity follow them in the self-ennobling path of infidelity touching Christ’s Devine nature, because they cannot comprehend it. Now it is as clear as daylight to me that the highest – the noblest – the most reasonable act of the mind is firmly and fixedly to believe every word spoken to it by Him who made it, whether by his own mouth
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or thro’ the instrumentality of his creatures inspired by Him for so doing. Alas – the fruits of this rejection of God are soon manifest – He has no need to punish them – He simply does to them what they do to him He rejects them – but how different is His act from theirs – He reluctantly withdraws that restraining, although invisible, arm which had so unweariedly saved them from themselves their worst enemy, and does what they so much desire viz. leave them to the guidance of their own god their intellect, who being thus separated from the God of Truth naturally conducts them to inextricable error, from thence to the depths of licentiousness and every species of crime that the creature abandoned by God is capable of – let us look for a moment to Paris in her dread visitation and who can say where man’s violence and guilt will stop. I would apologise to you for writing in this strain, but that I think it better to ask you to forgive and bear with me. Your own most kind and, to me, grateful letter opened the flood-gates of this particular set of feelings and so you have, as it were, brought it upon yourself, though most innocently. To turn to other matters – we have just recd. intelligence of a very unusual nature an engagement between the combined squadrons of England, France
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and Russia, and the Turkish Egyptian fleet. A very severe action, of which of course you will have the details as soon as or before you receive this.
The flames of war, so long smothered, are once more kindled. Wm Canning is said to have made an observation upon the peculiar state of the public mind all over Europe, to the effect that it was ominously charged with liberalism &c. and if a war was to break out there was no probability of judging where it would end. These are gigantic events over which one has no control, and therefore one’s line must be to look on steadily, keeping oneself ever prepared to go where duty calls, ever fixing the eye of Faith humbly but confidently on Him who sits above and has power over all things – that whenever he may call us away from this world of trouble and crime we may be with Him in a world of peace and unchanging happiness. The good account of your father is indeed [continued page 18]
James Macarthur
Parramatta
New South Wales
Australia
received the 14th March 1828.
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Mauritius
12 Decr 1827
My Dear Sir
It gave me infinite satisfaction to find by the letter which I had the pleasure of receiving from you by Dr Wilson, that I still retain a place in your remembrance & esteem and that the health and welfare of your Domestic circle are well maintained in spite of all the grievous counteractions which the political & moral state of the Colony still oppose to every thing & person that wears the character of respectability & worth. The Conversations I have had with Dr Wilson, & my letters from the Arch Deacon have given me a tolerable insight into the State & causes of the present Discontent, but
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of one thing I am sure, that until the moral character of the Colony is purified either by exalting those who are pure, or by Discouraging & Discountenancing the licentious & the corrupt, no Internal regulations will be of use. Emigration of numbers is not wanted, & will not be beneficial unless the Influences of respectable character within accompanies them or is in the Colony to protect & foster them. I do not Doubt the good Intentions of the Home Govt but I daresay you will have learnt how much they are hampered with accommodations of "my lady this, and that" & with Considerations which as a friend to the purity of English Govt, raise a feeling of Indignation in my breast. However it may be possible to awaken them hereafter to the absolute necessity of selecting respectable persons to fill the high & influential situations in N S Wales, the last place of all
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as our friend Mr Bannister observes, these Doubtful or ruined characters ought to find an asylum. It gives me much pleasure to learn that your Brothers Professional prospects at the English Bar are likely to be promoted by Ld Lyndhursts late elevation to the Wool sack, & I do not mean to pun when I say that a member of the McArthur family may justly claim to a share of the honours which that high Dignity confers. There was not formerly much sympathy between the Colonial office & the late occupier of the Seals, & I shall be glad to hear that a little wholesomeness & Constitutional influence is likely to emanate from so high a quarter & to Direct the provincial arrangements of Downing Street. I have been led to fancy from some late appointments in N.S. Wales & V. Diemans Land that another influence also derived from the Court of Chancery had arisen in the same Quarter & became powerful. "Times Danaos" Upon my return
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to England next Spring, I still feel great pleasure in resuming the Interest that I have always felt in the success of the agricultural speculations in which yourself and family are so worthily engaged. The Indefatigable spirit of your father, lives I am persuaded in yourself again worthy Brother, only in a milder form, & I often wish with a pleasure that I can hardly describe to the animated picture of cheerful Industry, pleasing Society & Domestic happiness which the Two residences of Camden & Parramatta alternately presented. Mr Bannister & myself have both dwelt upon this picture, & perhaps you will forgive in him the honest freedom with which he has sought to justify himself from the Imputation of party Influences when that of higher & purer motives predominated. The view which is implied in the expression of "opposition to Governors", is very easily explained by those who are acquainted with their feelings upon
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Colonial measures. They cannot bear a Difference of opinion, much less in those whose opinion is entitled to respect. The events that have occurred within the last few years in N. S. Wales will I hope impress the Govt at Home with the express Importance of cautious selection of the persons who are in future to Govern it & to fashion its future Destiny, whether it is to be a Licentious society of emancipated felons, or a community worthy the name & Distinction of a British Colony. You will probably have known from Mr Bannister himself that he has been attending to the means of Introducing the Cashmere Goats into N. S. Wales, through the assistance of my worthy friend & Colleague Major Colebrooke, who with a view of promoting the Breed at the Cape of Good Hope wrote to a friend of his employed in Persia, to send him
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a flock. The Major has consented to the proposes appropriation of them in favour of N S Wales, in the event of them not being taken & cherished by any Individuals at the Cape, when there is a useful want of that enterprising spirit which has raised the fleeces of the Camden flocks to their present eminence. I only hope that those of the Cashmere Goats may in the same hands, become equally fine & abundant & give to Mr McArthur a new claim to the Gratitude of his Country. I am glad to hear that your labours in the vineyard are not abandoned & I shall gladly name the proof that you are good enough to submit to me, of its merits. It is no Compliment to say that the Criticism of one who has been sitting in judgment on the merits of Cape Wines is not much to be
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feared when applied to the Produce of your vineyard at Camden. It has been lately Discovered that those merits have suffered greatly by the Interaction of Mercantile experiments in London & by the ready application of the worst sort of Cape wine to the gainful process of adulteration.
Since Dr Wilson’s arrival, I have had the pleasure of seeing him at the Hanns farm Secretary Mr Gregory with whom I was staying at the time. I was much pleased with the condition of the observations he had made during his several visits to the Colony, & I shall endeavour to show him as much attention as my occupations & retired mode of life in the House of Colleagues will allow. I fear that I must
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now take my leave, with the expression of the warmest feelings of respect & regard to Mr & Mrs McArthur & all your Circle, in which I trust I may include Mr & Mrs Hannibal McArthur, & Dr & Mrs Bowman.
I gladly receive the assurance of your wish to revive our Correspondence, & trust that Distance will not impede it, as I feel certain that it will never Impair the feelings of perfect esteem & regard with which I shall ever remain.
My Dear Sir
Yrs most faithfully
J. T Bigge
P.S. As I have only just recd. the Intelligence of the Departure of the "Lion", & must close my Packet, will you have the goodness to say to the archdeacon that I had the satisfaction of receiving his letter by Dr Wilson & will send an answer by the next opportunity.
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Mr James Mac Arthur Esqre
at Cow Pasture or Parramatta
New South Wales
With a chest of Wine – (Chateau Margaux)
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[This page written in French and translated on page 34]
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[This page written in French and translated on page 34]
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[This page written in French and translated on page 34]
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[English translation of preceding 3 pages.]
(Busseuil, Francois Louis, Chief Surgeon on Thetis, 1825)
English translation of a letter from M. Busseuil to James Macarthur – On board the frigate Terpsichore, harbour of Bahia, San Salvador (Bresil) [also spelt Brazil] Feb. 20, 1829.
My Dear Sir,
Why must I always be in a hurry when I write to you? It is because I learn so late of the opportunity, and I complain of it. This morning I went on board the Orelia. Yesterday evening they told me that a ship was going to Sydney. I wish I had been informed of it in a more certain manner than I have been, but the departure is to take place this evening or to-morrow, I must not delay or I shall lose this fine opportunity of recalling myself to your memory, and to that of all your dear family, and to tell you that Australia tho’ lost at sight to memory Dear (sic)
I have already given you a sign of life from Rio de Janeiro in the month of September last by the ship Hawkes. I hope that you have received my letter. By the same way also a little note was sent from one of our officers M. de Trobriant, to his relative Mlle. Denis who is in the household of your respected Mother. This is how this discovery took place – A letter for you was finished and sealed, it was exposed to view on a side table, Trobriant came into my room and said to me "You are writing to New Holland, I should have an aunt there", What is her name, said I? Then I at once remembered that good lady whom I had seen at Mrs Bowman’s and at your home, then I was able to assure him that she must be that lady of whom he was speaking. He has therefore had little time for writing and it happens that to day again he is absent on a tour on horseback and will only return in the evening, so he risks not having time to write to her. He is a fine young fellow who is a credit to his family.
Since I left Sydney I have only had indirectly any news of you. I would be very happy to receive it during our stay in Brazil, I should learn with much pleasure that the people whom I had known and seen with such satisfaction in Sydney were enjoying health and prosperity. Do not forget my dear Mr. James,
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to remember me very respectfully to your worthy Father, your Mother and sisters, to Mr & Mrs. Bowman. If you will be so good as to do the same, when you shall find opportunity, to the Stephen family, de Rossi, Captain Piper, the Garling family, Messers. Mitchell, Cunningham, Frazer. Do not forget to remember me to your brother either. I should much like to see again in Paris in a year, the good friend Edward. He will have made in the course of a year or less a very agreeable tour in Switzerland and Germany.
A word if you please about your native land, Australia, and our obelisk to La Perouse, is it finished? When shall I be able to see again that place? It could never be too soon. I send you a case of Bordeaux wine – Drink to my health and be assured of the ever sincere attachment that I have for you and yours,
Your very affectionate and entirely devoted
Busseuil
We have passed six months at Bahia. We are going to be stationed at Rio de Janeiro. You can send me news to the French Consulate.
[N.B. The writer of this letter had formerly been in the French frigate La Thetis on the voyage of circumnavigation under the command of de Bougainville, and had visited New South Wales in 1825. His name occurs in Bouganville H.Y.P.P. de – Journal de la navigation … de la Thetis et L’Esperance, vol. 1. Pp. xxv, 492, 494. M.F. Sept. 1947]
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English translation of a letter from Captain de Bougainville to Messieurs Macarthur Esquires a Port Jackson [See letter in French on Page 38]
Paris 6 December, 1829
The Corvette La Favorite, commanded by M. La Place is starting for the South Seas and M. de Bougainville with the greatest haste seizes the opportunity to recall himself to the remembrance of Messieurs Macarthur. He has not forgotten and will never forget the excellent welcome and touching hospitality which he received from them and he regrets very much not to have had the happiness during M. James’ stay in Paris to have entertained him and to have shewn him all the gratitude which the noble attentions towards himself during the stay of the Frigate La Thetis at Port Jackson have inspired.
M. de Boissieu, officer on La Favorite and relative of M. de Bougainville, who takes the liberty of recommending him to Messieurs Macarthur, is charged by him to renew to them expressions of the highest consideration & the sincere attachment which is avowed to them for his life by their very humble servant
H. de? Bougainville.
x Full name was Hyacinthe Yves Philippe Potentin de
+ De Boissieu – see Bougainville, H.Y.P.P. – Journal de Voyage, vol. 1, p. xxvii, 494.
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To Messieurs
Macarthur Esquires
a Port Jackson
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[This letter in French from de Bougainville is translated on page 36 above.]
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[This letter in French from de Bougainville is translated on page 36 above.]
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Letter from Barron Field to James Macarthur
Gibraltar
April 16, 1830
My Dear James,
I find in my desk your kind letters of the 27th April, 30th May and 6th November past. Can it be that I have all these to answer? I hope this will find you returned safely from your Continental Trip, as you proposed by the Spring, and that Mrs Field and I shall again be favoured with your interesting letters; for although we continue to like our rocky prison, yet we can never forget the wild woods of Australia and the gentle hearts at Elizabeth Farm. Let us hear of them.
Oh, tell us we yet have those friends,
Though those friends we are never to see.
I assure you that we have little likelihood of ever supplying their place as when I wrote to you last. Everybody here is either just come back, or just going home. The O’Connells (who having been at New South Wales, & he being one of the kindest-hearted men in the world, seemed to draw the closest to us) are gone to Malta, where he will be acting Lt. Gov by this time.
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I thank you for your Geographical News, and have since read that the Brisbane River is found by Cunningham, as I always suspected, to be merely a coast stream. I wish Oxley had lived to hear that the Macquarie Marshes were found to have no ulterior channel to the sea. I was always sure he would not have missed it, if there had been one. Pray send me particulars of the failure of that premature settlement of Swan River. I always thought that it would not be long ere the settlers found their way over to Bathurst; but I regret that they have been so distressfully driven to Van Diemen’s Land. What a pity it is that our fine country had not Mr Barrow’s £50,000, which was thrown away upon Algoa Bay and W. Swift’s like even, upon Swan River, together with the persons of property of all the free settlers, who were deluded, by Reviewing Under Secretaries’ Hobbich, to those unsurveyed and improbable spots. Free men only! Why, port Jackson itself could never have been colonized without convict labour. I always allowed that. Any more than sugar could be grown in the West Indies without negro labour. But that is no reason for giving the convicts seats in a House of Assembly, or on a Bench of Justice.
[Page 42]
I returned you all you lent me of Mr. Bannister’s Pamphlets; but you will find by the sheets I doubled down as duplicates in the Australian Agricultural Company’s copy, that, even with your own copy, there is still one sheet which I have not seen. He is a most amiable reader. I wish I had had such a literary enthusiast for my colleague at New South Wales. I don’t wonder at his attachment to your family. In such society, with children, one might end one’s days in Australia. I pity him under Sir Richard Falk at the Cape. How does Mr. B. get on? I could insure him some practice here; but the trade of Gibraltar is, as Swift calls that of Ireland, "a memay". The Spaniards have at last stopt the smuggling of goods from this Depot into Spain, not by making Cadiz a freeport for though the Cadiz Water ports are open the Land ports are still shut, but by giving the Civic Authorities of the various Spanish Towns round Gibraltar no other salary than what smuggled goods they can seize. Formerly they were paid by His Catholic Majesty & could therefore afford to content themselves with a small toll on each contraband cargo, to which they gave facilities and not checks.
We have had the pleasure of making Ensign Campbell’s acquaintance, and hope to see more of him this summer, when we mean to hold a weekly soiree. I think he is rather a clever young man. Give my compliments to Major
[Page 43]
Macarthur, and I shall be happy to receive any of his military introductions. And now never fail to remember Mrs Field and me most gratefully to all & every Member of your Family without exception, and always believe me,
My Dear James,
Your faithful friend,
B. Field
[addressed to] James McArthur Esq.
Albany House,
Piccadilly.
2dy. Posts
Mr Field
April 18th 1830
P.S. Oblige me by forwarding the enclosed letter
[Page 44]
English translation of a letter from M. Busseuil to James Macarthur 1 May 1830
Terpsicore, harbour of St. Denis,
Ile Bourbon, May 1, 1830.
My Dear Sir,
The Corvette La Favorite must in the course of its voyage touch at Sydney, I profit by this occasion to recall myself to your remembrance. Two years ago, setting out from France where I left your good brother Edward, I charged him during our stay in Paris not to forget me whenever he was writing to you. The Kind welcome that I received from your family will always remain in my memory, and all that may come to them, whether happiness or unhappiness, will always touch me deeply. May prosperity and good health continue to reign in your worthy family.
I gave you my news when we were in Brazil, but we have been at sea for a year without finding an opportunity for Australia. The thing is very natural, our service kept us continually off the coast of Madagascar, where we have just established a settlement, during that time we have, so to say, been isolated from the rest of the world and I was without news from France (on my own account) for eighteen months. I think that the Astrolabe must bring me a letter from you, but I repeat I have not received any from France because each time that I wrote I announced our return, which did not take place.
M. Boissieu the bearer of this letter is one of the officers of La Thetis, I have seen him again here with great pleasure and he has promised me he would go to see you.
Kindly remember me to your honoured parents, your sisters, Mr. & Mrs. Bowman, & your brother and be assured of my most friendly feelings for the family of Macarthur.
Your very devoted servant
Busseuil
M. Denis de Trobriant, who had formerly learnt from me what had become of his aunt, Mlle. Denis, living with your family, has started for France, a serious affection of the eyes making him almost incapable of service (or incapacitated for duty). He was a worthy young fellow whom I regret.
[Page 45]
[This letter in French from M. Busseuil to James Macarthur dated 1 May 1830 is translated on Page 44 above.]
[Page 46]
[This letter in French from M. Busseuil to James Macarthur dated 1 May 1830 is translated on Page 44 above.]
[Page 47]
[This letter in French from M. Busseuil to James Macarthur dated 1 May 1830 is translated on Page 44 above.]
[Page 48]
[Address of J. MacArthur at Parramatta, New South Wales.]
[Page 49]
Green Man
Blackheath
23d Sepr 1830
My Dear Sir
Under the daily expectation of being able to move to London, I have forborne troubling you with an inquiry as to your probable departure, but as the end of September approaches, & as the state of my leg was not sympathetic with my desire to move, I must resort to my pen. I had the pleasure of seeing the major, soon after you left England, & we anticipated the pleasure that you wd. derive from [indecipherable] the result of the remarkable & I may add the glorious events that have taken place in
[Page 50]
Paris since the 23d July. I hope that it will all terminate well but it is an awful period. From the windows of my sitting room I observe several carriages having the appearance of foreign travel, on their return from Dover to London & many of our countrymen must have retreated from Belgium – you are now preparing for a part of the world in which political movements tho’ frequent are not commented upon on so large a scale as they are in this. The accounts from Swan River do not open any sanguine prospects to agriculturists, & I imagine that
[Page 51]
Captain Stirling & Frazers first discriptions must have been too favourably drawn. I hear that the poor archdeacon has again suffered from a judicial decision, & that Mr Atty General Baxter is appointed a junior judge in V. Diemens Land. Dr Wilson is in this country again. Have the goodness to let me know, whether your departure from London is soon to take place, that I may if possible, offer you my good wishes in person. I am at this moment suffering from a very unexpected inflammatory attack which is of no consequence than that of protracted cure, a great disappointment in the hope that I
[Page 52]
indulged when I last had the pleasure of seeing you.
I desire my best regards to Major Mcarthur & beg to remain
My Dear Sir
Yrs most truly
J. T Bigge
P.S.
I hope that the Equinoctial Gales will have spent their force before the day of your embarkation.
[Page 53]
24 Sepr ½ 2 p.m [1830]
Green Man
B Heath [Blackheath]
My Dear Sir
From the state of the wind & weather, I think it probable that this may still find you in S. Audly Street. If it should do so, I only am desirous of ensuring, if possible, the pleasure of which yr note of last evening gave the promise, by saying, that whenever you may have it in your power to stop at this house, you are certain of finding me, & I can at a short notice receive yourself & the Major at Dinner & give you conveyance to Gravesend afterwards if you
[Page 54]
require it in my barouche.
I shall therefore keep a look out for you both today & tomorrow.
With my best regards to your brother
Believe me
Yrs most truly
J. T Bigge
[Page 55]
[blank page]
[Page 56]
James M Arthur Esqr
54 South Audley Street
24 Sepr
[Page 57]
15 Dec.
1825?
My dearest Brother James
I sit down to write to you in the Evening of this 15th day of Decr which has seen I think one of the most offensive & [indecipherable] felt – we have had a Thunder storm and it still rains a little This will I think relieve us without doing you any mischief.
Mr. Bowen [indecipherable] came from Sydney last Evening - he
[Page 58]
left on the Topham fully well, altho’ he had been complaining. [indecipherable] & [indecipherable] quite well.
Mr. Archison met Mr. Graham at [indecipherable] this morning and they both went afterward to [indecipherable]. I’ll [indecipherable]
I hear of nothing new. Our Cases have not yet landed from the Rolla - & these are the arrivals at Sydney.
[Page 59]
54
Mr. B brought up a copy of the address with 53 signatures &c. much for R. Howes.
I hope you have not been a [indecipherable] for the Salt. Thorn did not deliver the letter until this morning – 500lbs of Salt is now sent & a few biscuits & Lemons also.
[indecipherable] his again [indecipherable]
say he is suffering & he is however better tonight and going with yr. two Sisters in
[Page 60]
affectionate love & [indecipherable] but wish to the two their Brothers a
Attached Sister
[indecipherable] Macarthur
I [indecipherable] with this a letter for [indecipherable] Edward from Wm & [indecipherable]
Thursday night
No oil
[Page 61]
Bangalore August 6, 1834
My Dear MacArthur
I received your kind note by Captain Leakin.
We have just heard of the loss you have met with for the death of your once estimable and excellent father. I condole with you and all your family on that melancholy event, and I
[Page 62]
sincerely trust Mrs Macarthur has had resolution and composure to bear up against the sad blow she has met with. I shall be anxious to learn how you all are, and as to your future plans.
We have been at war with the Rajah of Coorg and
[Page 63]
58
the success has been complete – the force sent against him amounted to about 8,000 those which were placed under my Command – here encounter great natural and artificial difficulties in an advance, but we surmounted them all, the resistance to the principal column
[Page 64]
inconsiderable, but two of the other divisions [indecipherable] handled and supported considerable – the Capital "Mercara" was entered on the 6th of April, 4 days after we forced the passage of the River Cauvery – Coorg is perhaps by nature the strangest Country in the world, and is defended by men of Spirit, I would
[Page 65]
60
From Col. Lindesay
39th regt.
Would say almost impregnable – the troops underwent great [indecipherable] the obstacles thrown in the way of our advances and to give you an idea how slow we moved, we were, on the 2d day of our [indecipherable] with the country 15 hours in accomplishing 5 miles, the immense trees felled across the roads in all directions, requiring much
[Page 66]
much labour to cut and clear away, before the Artillery could pass – the campaign was short and severe, and the troops experienced great hardships, but they will be well rewarded as the booty here Sam Captain is considerable. I shall [indecipherable] place extra & other details of our proceedings, and I beg
[Page 67]
62
to refer again to the Madras Gazette continuing the official dispatches – I send them to Mr Riddell
I returned home from the field on the 20th May, the troops suffered [indecipherable] after coming back to quarters, [indecipherable]
again – we are now enjoying the delightful climate, this is the cool season
[Page 68]
and the most healthy. The thermometer at Gun firing is seldom above 680; and during the hottest time of the day seldom surges above 800. all your old friends of the Egth are well, Col Macpherson has gone home on leave of absence he did not agree with Briden. As for myself, I have not been a moment indisposed since I came to the country. The
[Page 69]
The Grey (dark) Colt is in high health, and from his thoughts and actions for a heavy man as I am, he is invaluable he is much admired.
Colonel Macpherson’s did not turn out so well, he had five actions too; but he has a very nervous horse, and unfortunately lost an eye on the march up from Madras. He was sold, I hear for 500
[Page 70]
500 Rupees.
I have nothing to say that can be at all interesting to you. The Council of India is now sitting at Ootacamond in the Neihglong Hills; but we hear little or nothing of what is going forward. Great reductions in the Civil Service are talked of, and will certainly take place at
[Page 71]
66
least as far as 25 per cent on all salaries, and many situations will be abolished altogether. Lord William Bontoness’s health is much improved, not so, Sir Fredk [indecipherable] he is said to be in very indifferent health indeed.
I beg you will offer [indecipherable] kind regards to your brother, and with my best remembrances to your brother, Dr [indecipherable] & the other members
[Page 72]
members of your family
Believe me to [indecipherable]
My Dear Macarthur
Yours Very sincerely
Lindesay
Remember me to Edward when you write to him.
I shall delighted to hear from you when you have a moment of leisure
[Page 73]
68
Glennie
12th Feb 1836
My Dear Sir
I last week sold a small lot of sheep and the money was to be placed this week to my credit in the Bank of Australia. I therefore enclose you an order for £ 111 .16.. being £ 11..16. interest due this month on the £ 236 .. and £ 100 to pay James Macarthur Esq.
[Page 74]
off part of the original debt and I shall endeavour to raise the remainder by August.
In the present bad seasons it is hard live at all and still have to find the means of paying off old debts. I have this year to purchase wheat again I did reap or rather pull about 150 bushels
[Page 75]
of wheat from 60 acres – and maize [indecipherable] I still have some of – I had a few acres looking very well a short time back but two days of hot wind cut it off we have plenty 0f grass in the mountains but one on farms. I got very fair prices for my wool last year 2/1d. This year I have cut it [indecipherable] without washing as I believe you have done.
9h post is going
Yours very truly
Jas Glennie
[Page 76]
James Macarthur Esq
Parramatta
Jas Glennie
12th Feb 1836
Answered 5th March
[Page 77]
71b
Buller (3 rd)
Dear Macarthur,
I shall be very happy if you will call between 1 & 2
Yours [indecipherable]
Chas Buller
[Page 78]
71c
Jas Macarthur E
[Page 79]
Formerly catalogued as 1860, 1862-3 ?, but as Charles Buller the Younger died in 1848, this letter must be dated during James Macarthur’s visit to England in 1837-38.
[Page 80]
72
Forbes
Cambridge 26th Feby 1837.
My Dear Sir
I am doubly your debtor for the obliging communications you have made – Upon receiving your first letter, I procured "Wards first steps to a poor law", and read it with the interest and care it required, and I had begun to turn in my mind the necessity of devising some means to counteract it – fortunately however I read in the debates on the Irish poor laws what appeared to me to render any direct reply to Mr Ward’s pamphlet unnecessary – the debate to which I allude took place on the 13th inst, in which Ld J. Russel observed upon the "impolicy as well as injustice of sending to the Colonies a vast quantity of useless population, who instead of proving a benefit would become a burthen" – and disclaimed any such views on the part of government, which he said would continue the practice of selling the wastelands, but would go no further than to provide ships at particular places for the reception of emigrants
[Page 81]
who could afford to pay for their own passages. Sir R. Peel is also reported to have said that govt. ought not to seek to raise a revenue fro the sale of waste lands in the Colonies, but should enable emigrants to purchase them upon reasonable terms – and supposing such lands to be situated in any particular colony the first object of government should be the benefit of that Colony" – These opinions of the two leading men on each side of the House appear to me to settle it. Wards scheme – they supply a pair of cushions for his first steps - I do not understand Lord John as intending to interfere with the appropriation of the proceeds of our waste lands, as voted by the legislature, and approved by the Colonial Secretary of State - I interpret his words to have reference only to pauper emigration from Ireland, as a measure of auxiliary aid to the relief intended to be afforded by a poor law system – You express a hope that I am directing my thoughts to the promotion of a second emigration – I assure you it is a subject upon which
for Ld. J. Russell’s remarks alluded to in Hansard 3rd Series Vol 36 pp. 474 – 5
Sir R. Peel – p. 498 near Bottom
[Page 82]
74
I think a great deal, and never lose an opportunity of giving any thoughts the form of acts towards furthering this vital measure of social regeneration in Australia. I argue the most beneficial results from the favourable dispositions upon this subject in Downing Street – all that I could desire is that the Canadas did not necessarily occupy so much of the care and time of that department – yet I would rather be neglected altogether than subjected to the officious cares of messers Ward & Coy.
Your intelligence from your brother is later than mine – and is of more value, as it proceeds from one who is a close observer of the prospects of a harvest, and the state of the seasons – I believe if the rains continue to fall even moderately in September, they ensure a wheat crop. I propose being in London in the course of a few days, and I shall take an early opportunity of calling on you. Pray make my best compliments to your brother – and assure him that I share with him the agreeable recollection of the time we
[Page 83]
passed together in the Great South Land, and I promise myself much pleasure in renewing his acquaintance on this side of the globe. Believe me, my dear Sir, Very truly &c F Forbes
James Macarthur Esq
No 10 Burlington Gardens
London
[Page 84]
76
Austin Friars Passage 9th October 1837
My dear Sirs
Your draft for Fifty pounds in favour of Mr. D. Walther on account of the Petition fund will be duly honoured when presented; as also for £76 ,, 9 ,, - for your disbursements on account of Mr. Charles Macarthur. I would have included a cheque for the latter, but that I do not consider it quite safe by the Twopenny post.-
I beg to inclose as you desire a note of the amount with the Petition Fund shewing a Balance in my hands of £41 ,, 4 ,, 10 (after payment of your draft of £50 to Mr Walther) which I trust you will find correct.
I am glad that you have communicated with the new Governor before his departure, and that there appears so much probability of his administration being conducive to the welfare of the interesting country, on whose Government he is appointed to preside.
[Page 85]
There three arrivals this morning from Sydney, the Kilmaurs, the Fortune & Bolina with letters to the 27th May, which do not contain so far as I have learned, any particular news.
I remain My dear Sir
Very Truly Yours
S. Donaldson
The Upton Castle in which Sir Geo. Gipps embarks will take letters till Friday evening –
[Page 86]
James Macarthur Esq
King Street
St Jame’s Square
Mr Donaldson with acct of Expenditure of [indecipherable]
[Page 87]
79
Hereford House
16th April 1838
My Dear James
Saturdays post brought me your [indecipherable] letter with its Enclosure quite safely for both of which I thank you. Your recollection of the balance of the £ 25 is quite correct. We were indeed beginning to speculate upon the cause of your silence, tho’ we did not arrive at attributing it to forgetfulness of us but to the right cause in the idea that you were probably awaiting the sale of dear Freds [indecipherable] – which I am glad to find you have sold [indecipherable] considering the state of the house at [indecipherable] I shall write to him in the course of a week or two when
[writing turned 90 degrees]
& as cold as December I hope it will not be very long before there may be some arrivals from the colony & a letter or letters for us the date of Your last is more than a March month back. I cannot but think some must have been lost & must rest content that he was well in your last accounts.
I am glad to hear dear Edward is well. Eliza writes in affectionate & [indecipherable] to him as well as yourself With my dear James
Your [indecipherable] affectnt friend
S. M. Thompson
[Page 88]
I will acknowledge the receipt of the £50. If it is necessary for one to give you any other receipt for it, than this acknowledgement, you must let me know & I will do it immediately. I am glad to hear you have nearly got through all your public business & hope all the objects of your visit to England may be realised to yourheart’s content. Believe me dear James, No one will be now sincerely rejoiced that all your hopes & fears should terminate happily to the utmost of your fonder wishes than myself. I could not be more desirous [indecipherable] you really any how, and shall indeed rejoice when you have the pleasing certainty to communicate - in these feelings. I need [indecipherable] you yr old friend & playfellow
[Page 89]
81
"is Lizzy" as truly participates – but encumbers me as content only on yr promise that we shall have the first intelligence from yourself. I need not [indecipherable] what you have said will be [indecipherable] notice we have yrs [indecipherable] for now We fancied when you were here your description of a lady was somewhat [obscured] were we wrong – I am thankful to say my dear Eliza’s spirits have recovered much of their [indecipherable] & tranquillity. She has by degrees fallen into her usual habits & occupation time alone can enable her to [indecipherable], after a severe & sudden a trial. Her dear children are all I thank God! Quite well. She herself has been suffering from a very severe cold
[Page 90]
and cough, which has confined her for the last fortnight to he room & has not benefitted her spirits of course. I am happy to say she is much better the last three or four days & if the weather [indecipherable] more genial. I hope she will soon throw it off [indecipherable] I suspect it has been something of [indecipherable]. I do know what the weather may be in London today but here we have had one half hour of extremely hot sunshine, & the rest a heavy [indecipherable]
James Macarthur Esq
15 Cockspur Street
London
[Page 91]
3dmpost
James Macarthur Esq
Cockspur Street
London
15
[Page 92]
Coles 84
Clapham 12th May 1838
My Dear James
I am much pleased to find by your kind letter that you are soon likely to become a married man, I have always thought you so well calenlated to enjoy domestic comfort, and to promote the happiness of those dear to you, that I have regretted your appearing so content to remain alone in the world – Some of your friends can feel more affectionately
[Page 93]
interested in your happiness than myself, and I rejoice to find by your description that your choice has fallen on one who appears so worthy of you – you have gratified me much by writing to me so fully, as it proves that you know how [indecipherable] I am interested in all that concerns your future comfort; I do not remember that I called you Mr Macarthur when you were last here, I felt nothing but kindness towards you, and feel
[Page 94]
86
disposed to speak to you & think of you with the kind feelings of s Parent. Pray offer my kindest regards to your dear Emily, [indecipherable] I [indecipherable] I should wish much to be introduced to her; both she and yourself as will ever have my fervent wishes and prayers for all possible happiness; trials & care fall to the lot of humanity, but a kind affectionate Partner to sympathize with us is one of Gods best gifts – may you
[Page 95]
find this to be the case – Mr Coles is waiting to take this to the post, therefore I am writing in great Haste - I shall be always happy to see you, but knowing how you are situated, I shall not feel the least offended by your not coming until you are quite at leisure – Accept our united congratulations and kind wishes and believe me yours very sincerely & affectionately
Anna Maria Coles
We fancy Miss Stone is a relation of [indecipherable]
[Page 96]
88
Clapham
12 May 1838
Dear James
Though I desire to be dead to the world to its cares pleasures and pursuits, yet the life that I would live is productive of the sincerest heartfelt sympathy for my best and much valued friends – your letter to Mrs Coles received yesterday announced a coming visit of the greatest importance to your future happiness – I have too good
[Page 97]
an opinion of your taste and judgement to doubt that the object of your choice is deserving of all the commendations you bestow on her, and in every respect as to connections the matter is just as it should be – we thought [indecipherable] your Hampshire trip that you would have taken a higher flight – a Hawker was in our minds but a Stone is a good foundation
[Page 98]
90
to build a permanent edifice upon – a happiness beginning here, which though Death may interrupt for a time shall know no one where there is a union of heart and mind not only on things temporal but on things Eternal – when the opportunity arises we shall be most happy to be introduced and unite with yourself the object of your choice in our affections with regards and [indecipherable] attention in our humble way – I shall call on your brother shortly
[Page 99]
and recommend him to follow your good example, looking at the circumstances of your family, I have long considered, that all the mate past [indecipherable] was a blank in it – may God bless and prosper this first step to fill it [bl]iss – by the good wishes of your friend and your [indecipherable] friend [indecipherable] gracious grey headed and acceptable to Miss Stone for [indecipherable]
faithfully Mr [indecipherable] Coles
[Page 100]
92
(Incomplete to James Macarthur)
Sunny Lodge
Gt Malvern
15th May 1838
My Dear Sir
Will you forgive my presuming upon the very pleasant acquaintance I had the good fortune to make with you in London by requesting you to enable me to make some small return for very great kindness & attention shewn to me & to my wife, by a most respectable family in this
[Page 101]
County, one member of which has evidenced a degree of goodness of heart & tender sympathy with my poor Wife in our Heavy & shiestic bereavements which I never can forget
Last July Mr Henry Edward Isaac went out (1837) to Sidney with Judge Willis and what I want you to do is to give him some good introductions there. He
[Page 102]
94
has been well educated & is very well connected here, His Father being a most respectable Banker in Worcester. His Mother an Aunt to the M.P. for Bridgnorth Mr Whitmore. His sister married to Mr Ladlaw the ex. Liberal M.P. for this county & his mother’s Sister late wife to Mr Babbage the Calculator &c
I mention all this to shew you, that although I am not acquainted with the young man myself there is every reason to presume that he has been well
[Page 103]
brought up - & you can easily imagine the anxiety of his Parents, that on going to such a distance from the paternal roof – he may fall into good society, & thus be kept in the right path.
I hope that we shall meet again eir you leave England, as it is [indecipherable] I hope to be in Town next month for a few days – I wish I cd persuade you to visit us in the North this summer – you should have a hearty welcome
[Page 104]
15 May 1838 96
for yourself & whoever might be with you. If you are kind enough to write me or send me any letters for young Issac put them under care to Mr Brekhouse at the Foreign Office & they will reach me safely. We propose moving to Leamington in about 10 days. I beg my kind regards to your brother & remain, (in [indecipherable] to save [indecipherable]]
Yours very sincerely
Houston Stewart
Jas. Macarthur Esq.
[Page 105]
James Mc Arthur
15 Cockspur Street
Houston Stewart
[Page 106]
98
C. Norman James Macarthur 15.5.38
My Dear Mr. Macarthur
I had determined not to trouble you with reading a letter from me, (occupied as I am certain your mind is by far more interesting subjects) until the arrival of the plants from ‘Loddijies but finding from Barnes that we must not expect them until the middle of the week I cannot & will not delay telling you how deeply & cordially I
[Page 107]
sympathize with you in your well founded anticipated happiness, secured to you in my opinion in the possession of such a companion through life as our beloved Emily, it is not in the nature of things my dear Mr Macarthur that after your departure to New South Wales that I should ever be made happy by seeing either again, but while it pleases God to spare my life, my own happiness will derive augmentation from thinking
[Page 108]
100
of yours & that of a truly beloved friend who however cruelly to those who have enjoyed the happiness of knowing her, has, if possible increased my favourable opinion of her by her recent decision in your favour, believe me with best love to her my dear Mr Macarthur
most truly & sincerely Yrs,
C. Norman
Bromley Common
May 15th .,
I shall write again after
[Page 109]
the arrival of the treasures I am prepared to prize most highly.
[Page 110]
102
May 18, 1838?
James Macarthur
Norman
This morning arrived your invaluable present of plants my dear Mr Macarthur, & my thanks should be in proportion to the estimation of my obligation to you if that were possible, be assured however that although feebly expressed I most sensibly feel your kind attention, & while life & eyesight are spared me I shall view the splendid specimens you have sent me as the gift of a sincere friend, & value them all
[Page 111]
accordingly, notwithstanding it is difficult to us very selfish mortals to forgive you for running away with the "Flower of Stanmore" by the bye, I must tell you an anecdote of little Charles. While with Miss Watson he looked very grave this morning, & she enquired the cause, upon which he said "Oh! Mr Macarthur is going to marry my Aunt Emily, & I
[Page 112]
intended to marry her myself." Pray communicate this to dear Emily with my best love, & again believe me my dear Mr Macarthur
Yr much obliged as well as sincere friend,
C. Norman
Bromley Common
May 18th
[Page 113]
James MacArthur Esq
15 Cockspur Street
PM Stewart
[Page 114]
106
Thursday.
Queens Birthday (May 24)
1838
My dear MacArthur
The enclosed came to me last night from my Brother. I presume it is an offer to emigrate – root & branch to Port Phillip. Pray encourage it – if it is so.
[Page 115]
I hope your suit in the Queen’s Courts progresses favourably. I congratulate you most sincerely on the wise, & tasteful, step you have taken, - and I have no doubt you will bless your stars – as you
[Page 116]
108
proceed thro’ life – a slave in silken bonds. The Lady is lucky – too! & altho’ the "happy couple are to let off for New South Wales" – still the distance is nothing for your devotedness will
[Page 117]
build a "Brigg" over it - & muched love will be the Keystone thereof!
Yrs ever sincerely
P.M. Stewart
[Page 118]
110
Houston Stewart to James Macarthur
Sunny Lodge, Malvern
May 27. 1838
My dear Macarthur
I have only just now recd your very kind letter of the 22nd Inst. & you must allow me cordially & sincerely to wish you joy of your bright & Eternal prospects of happiness. Indeed you have my heartiest congratulations & fervent wishes that you may find the matrimonial
[Page 119]
& gracefully around your bush (I must not say meekly as I have myself ever found it to do - & I cannot wish you better –
I have [indecipherable] a streak from [indecipherable] blank colonies to be crafted your countenances at the time of the [indecipherable] & trumpets share challenge offered by Patrick, which made me sufficiently suspicious as to feel no very great surprize at the
[Page 120]
announcement you have now gratified me by making. Now my good friend, you cannot take your Bride out of Scotland without having her [indecipherable] & the Trossachs - & our shop is within 10 miles of that beautiful & far famed scenery. Close to Callander, & there you must allow Mrs Stewart & me to have the great [indecipherable] of receiving you & shewing what is worthy of notice.
[Page 121]
will not keep us longer than the commencement of July & then we steer direct for our home "the Gart by Callander". I trust you will communicate with me & keep me advised of where a letter will find you, as I will announce our arrival at home to you immediately I get there
I feel very much indebted to you for your kind attention to my wishes about young
[Page 122]
114
Isaac – his family are most amiable & kind hearted people and from the last letters I have seen from their son Henry & all I have heard of him in this neighbourhood, I can scientiously believe that he will do credit to any kindness & patronage you may be good enough to bestow upon him. I shall trespass [indecipherable] further on your kindness by writing you tomorrow or next day a few lines of introduction by a very respectable young man – the son of the acct. in Mr Isaac’s bank at Worcester (Lechemere & Cos’ old bank) who with a capital of £8000 entirely at his own disposal has determined to proceed next month to Sidney to join young Isaac, with whom there has existed a mutual friendship from childhood. They propose being Partners in [indecipherable] they do. & I have formed a very high opinion of them very serious steady [indecipherable]
[Page 123]
& clear sighted views. He is bashful & somewhat awkward but knowing as I do, your anxiety, your patriotic anxiety for the importation of really good & respectable individuals into New South Wales I feel opined that I need make no apology for asking you to see Mr Henry Hughes & to give him your best advice & advice that must be invaluable to him at this moment. He starts from Liverpool about the 10th June, & he runs up to London, chiefly by my advice to see you, & my brother Patrick to whom I have given him an introduction. If you can facilitate his entrance into good society & caution him against any of [indecipherable] at Sidney you will oblige me in a manner I shall never forget. Young Isaac’s interests & his being considered as the same. He will tell you what Henry Isaac has done according to last letters and now good bye for the present, I [indecipherable]
[Page 124]
indulge the hope of seeing you next month in Town, & at all events, of receiving you & your better half at the Gart, where you [indecipherable] have wholesome fare, pure air & exercise & as hearty a welcome as can be given by your very sincere & faithful
Houston Stewart
P.S. A letter under cover to Mr Backhouse at the F.O. will at all times find me wherever I may be. I propose leaving this on Friday next for Leamington
Ja Macarthur Esq
[Page 125]
James Macarthur Esq
15 Cockspur St.
H Stewart
[Page 126]
118 28.5.38
Favoured by Henry Hughes Esq
James Macarthur Esq
15 Cockspur Street
London
Houston Stewart
[Page 127]
119
Worcester May 28 1838
My dear Macarthur
This is merely for the purpose of introducing to you, Mr Henry Hughes, the young friend about whom I wrote you yesterday. I have begged of him to call upon you early to make sure of finding you at home. He is shy, but I think you will soon put him at his
[Page 128]
ease, & then find that he possesses considerable judgement & information, Any kindness you shew him will oblige me beyond expression
Yours always sincerely
Houston Stewart
James Macarthur Esq
[Page 129]
121
It is impossible, or at least very improbable you shd receive this before you get my letter of yesterday. but I may first mention that Mr Hughes is about to progeed to Sidney next month from Liverpool He goes out to join young Henry E. Isaac & has a fortune of at least £8.000. at his disposal
HS
[Page 130]
122
Trafalgar Square June 6 1838
My Dear Sir,
I called upon you today in order to introduce a young gentleman. Mr Crawford, who is about to proceed to New South Wales. He is the son of a well known Captain in the Royal Navy, & one of his sisters is married to a brother of Lord Camperdown
[Page 131]
He has spent his youth in the Navy, but being near his own master, and in possession of considerable property, he has resolved to repair to Sydney, and to enter [indecipherable] a business as a sheep – farmer
I shall be much obliged by any information or introductions which you may be good enough to [indecipherable] him. His mother
[Page 132]
in law is a near relation of mine, and I know him to be an excellent and promising man. He sails from Plymouth on Monday next, & leaves tomorrow Friday night. He will call upon you at nine oclock tomorrow morning and I trust he may be fortunate enough to find you at home.
I am your servant Sir
AM Campbell
J Macarthur Eq
[Page 133]
125
Macarthur [indecipherable]
To James Macarthur ?
Murlagan 20th August 1838
Honoured
Sir
I Embrace the opportunity and persumption of writing your honour at this present time – long since I heard of your being a powerful Man in that Great Colony –
Therefore I recommend myself to you as a friend and Kinsman which I trust in Granting me some favour there is two or three years since I expected to Emigrate to that Colony – if your honour would advise me to do so
I am but young as yet only Twenty five years of age - Christmas last
I understand that man of education also that has knowledge how to manage Sheep and husbandry is more answerable to that Country therefore I have been well acquainted with what I have stated above from my youthful days also Buying Sheep and Cattle for some years Back this is but a poor Country Scarse of Labour and Cash therefore my only request is that your honour would show me the Kindness to give me information concerning that Colony
[Page 134]
for if it would happen with me to go to that Country you would be the only gentleman that I trust wouls stand me as a friend and also would Bestow your Benevolence towatds me
I do not know but you may think it [indecipherable] as you do not know me nor my father nor any of my acquaintenance
There is one man there which would give you information concerning me one Duncain Cameron originally from Lochabey he is a second cousin of mine he stoped forty miles from Sidney therefore you will be so Kind as to write me an answer when you will Embrace the first opportunity after receiving this
If you will be so Kind as to write you will address my letter this
Archibald MacArthur
Murlagan Lochaber
Inverness Shire By
Fort William
N.B.
I remain honoured Sir your most obit and humble Servant
Archibald Mac Arthur
[Page 135]
127
If I get the Least Encouragement of going there I will prove by Certificate from different respectable gentlemen to of good conduct and of honest family
[Page 136]
128
22.8.38
From Houston Stewart
My Dear Macarthur
I am truly sorry to leave London without seeing you & [indecipherable] more vexec not to have been in Sir [indecipherable] you & Mrs W. [indecipherable] at the Govt – I begged your Brother to explain the cause of our being detained in Leamington. I am very anxious that you should kindly allow my young friend Frederick Isaac to
[Page 137]
go out in the Royal George. It will be a source of that great comfort to his Family, & a great obligation conferred upon myself He is a fine young man & brought away a high character from Rugby School. and [indecipherable] you have difficulty as to room, I feel confident that [indecipherable] Dalrymple & he would double up without inconvenience
[Page 138]
130
in the Cabin & be very great friends. He is preparing & will be prepared in time for the Royal George, although he cannot know his fate till you decide it. His eldest brother drove him over to Malvern the other day in hopes of meeting you but you had fled. Pray write him two lines, as soon ass you can arrange, and report. Fredk Isaac Esq. Broughton House near Worcester
Perhaps I [indecipherable] be in town
[Page 139]
again before you sail- if not accept of my best & kindest good wishes & with my best compliments to Wm Macarthur
I always am
Most [indecipherable]
Houston Stewart
London 22 Augt 1838
James Macarthur Esq
[Page 140]
11.10.38
1 [indecipherable] Passage
11Oct 1838
Dear Sir
We have to acknowledge your loan of yesterday by the hands of Mr Charles Macarthur to whom we gave a cheque for £ 170 – being the amount of his outfit & passage money on acct of J.H. Macarthur Esq also £ 28 . 8. 6 being Balance due to the New South Wales petition as to Statements we enclose herewith
We remain Dear sir
Very [indecipherable] yours
Donaldson & Lambert
Jas Macarthur Esq
29 Tavistock Square
[Page 141]
James Mc Arthur Esq
29 Tavistock Square
[Page 142]
134
Hawley
Mansion House Place,
16th Octr 1838
Sir,
In the absence of Mr Maynard, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your parcel addressed to the firm. I am sorry that you should have had the trouble of returning the Memorial. Mr Crowder attended himself at the Colonial office in the month of June last, for the purpose of ascertaining the formalities required in order to the registrys of Deeds in New South Wales. By an extract which he then took & which now lies before me, it appears that the Memorial "ought to be "signed by some one of the parties to the "deed & delivered to the office of the Supreme "Court of New South Wales & verified upon "the oath of some one competent person that "such memorial contains a just & true account "of the several particulars therein set forth, "which oath shall be made before one of
[Page 143]
"the Judges or the Registrar of the said Court. This extract has been adopted as our guide in the matter, but I doubt not that your information is the most correct.
Herewith I beg to return you the Memorial with the three affidavits annexed, which have all been sworn before a Master in Chancery. To Mr Stone affidavit is annexed the marriage Certificate which, as well as the Memorial, has been duly exhibited. The signatures of the Master have been authenticated by a Public Notary, which I believe you will find sufficient. I adopted this mode in preference to that of swearing the affidavits before the Lord Mayor, and the least expensive, tho’ equally, effectual plan The latter mode would have involved
[Page 144]
136
necessity for the City Seal to each affidt
I beg to enclose an account Messrs Crowder & Maynard’s additional charge.
& remain, Sir,
Yours very respectfuly
John Hawley
Jas Macarthur Esq
[Page 145]
Jas Macarthur Esq
Care of Mr S Davidson Esq,
Woolmer
Nr Liphook,
Hants
[Page 146]
138
8.11.38
My dear Macarthur
I have often been on the point of writing, but the chance of a change in matters, & absolute want of anything to communicate, added to pressing & multifarious business has prevented me. However as the weathercock seems nailed to the [indecipherable] I will [indecipherable] put together a pack of little nothings, & send them off, on the chance of them finding you at Byden.
I thank you much for your letters, & fully symphathize in the misery Emily must have indured during the continuance of the sale – Luckily [indecipherable] sickness leaves no
[Page 147]
string behind – misery intense while it lasts – but a source of merriement when fine weather drives it away.
We are all very well here - & have good [indecipherable] from Dover – Sibella was in very bad spirits while in Hampshire. The first pang of separation was then felt in all its bitterness, but she has now recovered her equaniminity & can look at the bright side of the picture.
I tell her & feel, that apart from the loss of intercourse with her family, a source of deep regret I confess – Emily’s loss is very fortunate, she loves you, & you love her, & she is going to a country, prosperous healthy, with a fine climate; & where you both have means of being useful to your contemparies, & successors almost boundless in extent – Added to those advantages, as the absence of all pecunnary cash, committed with a rizing family however large, a blessing of the greatest value – Putting all things together, I have half a mind to [indecipherable] though far from expressing at my social position, which God be thanked,
[Page 148]
140
is most happy, & leaves me little to ask for.
The Canada business must finish the Ministry, according to all ordinary calculations – The only chance for it is that the Tories will feel themselves unable to guide the vessel thro’ such troubled waters – with the addition in their case of a storm from Ireland – It is daid that Ld. Olingily, Hobhouse, & Ld Minto are to go out – The D. of Wellington must regret having [indecipherable] to his great name & authority to the personal animosity of Brugham, & the political [indecipherable] & cupidity for office of his own Party – As for Canada, itself, I wish for nothing better than to get rid of it soon & forever, without Bloodshed or expence –
Take care that the expenditure of stores, incident to your detention is replaced – Give my very kindest love to Emily - & my best regards to all my friends among your fellow Passengers – adieu
Ever yours
Geo W Norman
[indecipherable] 8 Nov 1838
[Page 149]
My dear James – I add a few lines because I have a space unfilled & as it may the last letter that reaches you & dear Em from us – [indecipherable] I have received [indecipherable] last letter which amused me uncommonly & the cheapness of your lodging astonished me I [indecipherable] heartily wish you well out of it & some distance on your way home [indecipherable] makes me wish much to have a sight of you both. & also I find [indecipherable]
James Macarthur Esq
Post Office
Ryde
Isle of Wight
[Page 150]
142
No 1
Alone separates them, & I hear [indecipherable] of the latter is supision – Recollect the paramount importance of those two points in legislating for your [indecipherable] country – Its future happiness may greatly depend upon them – I beg my kindest love to Emily & long to see her first letter from Australia.
Adieu truly yours
Bromley [indecipherable] 1 Jany 1838 Geo W Norman 39
My Dear Macarthur
It is now six or seven weeks since you left us, & we may hope that you are far advanced on your voyage - & as I do not wish you should be very long at home without hearing from me; I will can commence a correspondence, in which I will not [indecipherable] my post shall be brilliant or instructive, [indecipherable] at any rate may serve to put you in mind of me, & induce you to favour me from time to time with a few details of your proceedings, & of the progress of the most interesting country, where Providence has placed you.
Of Domestic news I have little to give. All are well at Bromley except Gerard & he recoveribg from a very slight attack of his old complaint. The Monthly Nurse comes to Sibella in 4 or 5 days, & she expects to be confined before the middle of the on –
[at 90 degrees]
The Puseyites are making a great noise just at present – so many converts – How they can continue nominally in communion with the Church I know not.
[Page 151]
I heartily wish the Crisis was over – for one hears of so many accidents that it is quite impossible to repress all anxiety – just thank God, she is healthy, & has heretofore gone through the troubles of her sex very favourably, so that there is every ground for confidence –
We have been adding to our domestic comforts by means of an Arnott stove in the Hall, which answers admirably, & the addition of two small apartments, the nature of which, I will have you to imagine – they were much wanted – The [indecipherable]house as we call it, you may recollect an Edifice on the other side of the Pond, is to be pulled down to prevent its tumbling down – I rather lament it as an old relic of bygone habits, but still more as the habitations for 253 years at least of a pair of owls, whom I consider as friends, & whose Evolution over the fields in search of food for their young have much amused me on a summer’s Evening.
The Major has come to Louse again, & to be with us on Saturday – he says nothing abt his health & I hope therefore it is good.
& it is my full intention to give you the least possible trouble on the subjects of Emigrants & Emigration - & I have at once rejected many applications
[at 90 degrees]
from the mass of her followers, they differ greatly – From the Papists they are separated by an almost imperceptible line
[Page 152]
144
which would have made me the Medium of bothering you – I hope however you will excuse a few lines which I wrote you about 3 weeks ago, at the request of Mr H Barens requesting that if applied to, as to the character of a man named Dawson, who is about to proceed to the Colony, you would think that you had received a very good account of him in this respect, from a person on whom you could rely –
Public affairs seem almost at a dead lock – the weakness of the Ministry is almost pitiable, & it does not appear how they can go on – God a Peel government would much walk almost to insurmountable obstacles of course, we will come to a Coalition sooner or later, [indecipherable] I think one other party could again to thank, until the Tories above had tried & failed & a union could be presented to the nation as a "pis aller" – In the mean time the [indecipherable] & army are increased, I believe wisely; yet where the money to pay the increased Expense is to come from I know not – to borrow more, especially in a time [indecipherable] would be madness, but who would venture to propose a augmented taxation, & what imposts would be selected? – Do not suppose me to be one of those oiks I think England over[indecipherable] compared with other [indecipherable], & her own [indecipherable]
[Page 153]
[indecipherable] of the greatest Parliamentary battlefields this year will be the Corn Laws which will receive a rude blow – They cannot be maintained many years longer – I conceive them to be one of our greatest practical abuses.
I have just read an elaborate letter from a very sensible Englishman who has been some time in the U. S – on Canadian Affairs – he thinks that our American Colonies might be kept, but will be lost after perhaps giving rise to a man with the US The most important measures that can be adopted to quiet and alleviate the conditions of the Colonists are he says, good municipal Institutions & a [indecipherable] of public education, like thos in New England – He attributes to these chiefly the enormous contrasts in prosperity of every kind, between New York & [indecipherable] & upper Canada, I [indecipherable] St Lawrence
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
Cawdor
May 1839
[Page 154]
146
4.2.39
I wrote to you about three weeks ago, & to Emily since, in order to communicate the event of Sibellas confinement – She has since got on admirably well, & the Baby also – My object in now addressing you, is to introduce to you, at the request of an old friend & neighbour – [indecipherable] Chapman Mr William Pernott, whom I do not know, but who I understand is going out to N.S.W. as a Settler – He may require some advice as to his best course of proceeding, & that you will perhaps be kind enough to afford him
[at 90 degrees] long & remembered letter at this moment I cannot add anything but that I am Yr [indecipherable] afficate sister
Sibella Norman
[Page 155]
I cannot but say, that it is with extreme reluctance I trouble you in this way well knowing, that the consequence may be an encroachment on your valuable time & attention – still I hope you will excuse me, when as on the previous occasion, I gave way to earnest solicitation – Mr Perott is the nephew of Mrs Cholmondely Dering, a very old acquaintance of my mothers.
Hereafter it might be well, that you should desire me to limit my letters of introduction to persons known personally to myself, or to friends of my friends, in order to cut off a link or two from the chain, which might otherwise give two Emigrants out of three a claim upon you – At any rate , you may depend upon my forbearance – Give our kindest
[Page 156]
148
Love to Emily – Mrs Stone is very ill
Believe me, my dear Macarthur
Yrs m truly
Geo W Norman
[indecipherable]
3 Febr 1839
My dearest James & Em,
I must add a few lines to George’s letter to tell you that I & my fourth little son are very well – altho he will not be a fortnight old till Wednesday, this being Monday. Dearest Em I never have felt stronger & better upon such occasions than I now do & I only wish I could show you my new little dark boy who is very like Charley – we both want to call him James but Mrs Norman
[Page 157]
had a child of that name who died & hopes that we will not however I hope that you dear James will not object to being his Godfather whatever name we give him. I have thought much of you both lately & I daresay you of me. I shall as soon as am a little stronger send you one of my
Mr Penott
Albion Printing Office
Kings Street Sidney
August 24th 1839 to be forwarded Per Post Ship
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
5 read Augt 27 1839 written Feby ¾
[Page 158]
150
The Sons of St Patrick
Request the honor of
Mr James McArthur
Company at a Ball & Supper at the Pate Theatre George St
On Monday the 18 Instant
[signatures indecipherable] Stewards
Sydney 6 March 1838 This card to be delivered at the door.
[Page 159]
151
considering the unpopularity of the Corn Laws [indecipherable] large towns the real seats of political power – house nervous – all here desire their kind love to Emily – Give her a kiss from me [indecipherable] Ever yours Geo W Norman Bromily Common 26 March 1839
My dear Macarthur
We are sometimes disposed to feel a little uneasy at never having heard any thing of you since your departure, but on the other hand try to convince ourselves that no news are good news, & that you are safe at Camden & enjoying an Australian Autumn.
I wrote to you about two months ago & now assume the pen, less & Emily should be alarmed at Sibella’s long silence, for which in deed there has been sufficient cause, (although no ground for alarm), to excuse her from any charge of idleness or neglect – She tells me that she has only written once since her confinement her recovery was very rapid & complete, & at that point I take up our domestic history. Gerrard became very unwell in his usual
[at 90 degrees]
The Major will have told you what has occurred with the Col. Office respecting Emmigration – I was too unwell to be able to attend the Ministry much to my regret –
[Page 160]
way – we went to Tavistock Square where Mr Stone (not Papa but the doctor) attend, & he was getting better, when he unfortunately burnt his hand very slightly a sympathetic inflammation took place in the upper arm , which gave him great pain for many days, & at length suppurated The discharge & previous suffering pulled him down very much, & although now going on well, he is very thin, pale & weak – While he was at his worst Sil gave herself wholly up to him, & almost the first time she went out afterwards caught cold, followed by an attack of acute Rheumatism, which has confined herself motionless to a sofa or bed for the last ten days – she has suffered tortures, but has persisted with the greatest heroism in nursing the infant – for several days she could not even move an arm or hand without assistance, & hardly ever slept, owing to constant pain & tedium – today she is better, & we confidently expect that her recovery henceforward will be rapid. She has never had much fever – The above detail will at any rate shew, that her silence is not culpable – The rest of our party here is all well, excepting myself, who am plagued by my
[at 90 degrees]
If labor is scarce – Gentility will be abundant with you – I am asked for letters of introduction every week, & constantly refuse them – I shall continue to do so, excepting to persons, whom
[Page 161]
153
old enemy indigestion, just enough to afford a constant source of annoyance – not enough to make me put myself in medical hands. The Thompsons are now our guests with their children – when they go, we shall have London visitors. In short, the house will probably be full for some time –
Mr [indecipherable] has made up his mind to sell the house in Tavistock square, to live in Lombard St, while Harriet is to go to Scotland – he is well but not in god spirits – the break up in his domestic circle prays upon him. Mrs Stone is very ill – [indecipherable] recovery of course out of the question - & I should imagine her life in danger, but on this point, I can get no calm intelligence – I have not seen the Major for some weeks, but hope soon to find a corner for him here.
I was at Hemsled at the end of Jany for 3 or 4 days – just afterwards Mr Hardy is got the metallic end of a pencil into his ear, & was obliged to have it extracted by an operation – The [indecipherable] produced great pain, & injured his general health – he is now better, but very deaf in the injured side – he called here with Mrs H – 2 days ago, but
[at 90 degrees] I know personally, until I get precise instructions from yourself –
[Page 162]
was out, & did not see him –
The News papers will give you the state of politics – it is gloomy enough – In India things do not progress, & then comes Canada – the Boundary question & the Ministerial crises. Perhaps the Whigs ought to have gone out after the [indecipherable] The Lords – for if the Radicals do not abandon them, & they beat the Tories on the Irish question in the Commons, they can only prolong a rickety existence – while they must have gained by leaving Peel to form & carry on the government, with oppression & Ireland for his Motto – I think he would have shrunk from this task, especially.
26 March 1839
James Macarthur Esqre
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 163]
James Mc Arthur Esq
Camden
Am
M Campbell
Treasury
12 April 1839
[at 90 degrees]
W. S. Macleay
Account of
Royal [indecipherable]
[indecipherable] £45.0.0
Settled 27th April
By Cheque
[Page 164]
156
W.S. Macleay 10.4.39
Sydney
10th April 1839
My dear Macarthur
I send herewith the copy of your account between you and me, by which it appears that you are in my debt for £84 ….St/. As for the £345 paid by me into the London Banking house on your Account I can show the receipt when you please; and I learn from Lamont Campbell that you have received the Bounty money from the Colonial Treasury.
I have not yet [indecipherable] with James Macarthur Esq then
C Andrews
[Page 165]
the country because my friends here are anxious that I should see it green. This beneficial and anxiously desired Rain (of which I trust you have had your full proportion) will soon cover the face of the Country with verdure; and then I shall go to Brownlow Hill and take the earliest opportunity of paying my respects to Mrs Mc Arthur at Camden – By the way I trust she is pleased with the appearance of N.S.Wales. I confess that I am delighted with it notwithstanding its russet appearance. But then I am always delighted with a new vegetation and verily believe that I prefer the
[Page 166]
158
[indecipherable] of Banksias because it is new to the sweetest of Mans Roses.
Has Mrs Macarthur managed to Keep Tiger? Condi is the most beautiful dog I ever saw.
My Shoulder remains so weak and useless that I fear I shall not be able to get on horseback for months to come.
I was sorry to learn that the man lourman had behaved so ill. He is I understand butchering here in Sydney with the same man who was so mean Spiriting away Percy from me.
Pray remember me most Kindly to Mrs MacArthur and believe me to remain My dear Macarthur
Yours most truly
W.S. Macleay
[Page 167]
159
James MacArthur Esq in
Dr
6 Oct 1838 For money paid by Mr Macleay into Messrs Merries & Farquhars’s as per receipts £ 345 ------.
1 April 1839. For Sums recovered at the Colonial Treasury on account of Mr Macleays Emigrants 253 £ 598
[Page 168]
159
Account with W. S. Macleay gn
Cr
10th April 1839 On Account od Passage money for Emigrants as per Account with Major MacArthur £ 250
on account of Mr MacLeays Passage 100
On Account of Passage of two cousins of Mr Macleay £ 75 + £ 50 125
On Account of Passage for two Servants 36
To Balance due to Mr Macleay 84
£ 598
Sydney 10th April 1839
E.E W.S.Macleay
[Page 169]
160
Copy
Of
Account between
J. MacArthur
&
W.S. Macleay
[Page 170]
161
Jas Macarthur Esq
Brougham
[Page 171]
162
London May 15 1839
Sir
I am taking a great [indecipherable] in writing this letter to one whom I have not the honour of knowing. But my former intimacy for many years with your lamented brother makes me assume the privilege of addressing you and my object is one so internly to me that I am tempted to do so without further apology.
My nephew John Brougham is going to
[Page 172]
settle in the colony where you fill so important a space & on whose affairs your brother used to consult me and I know no one to whom I could introduce him with anything like the same prospect of furthering his views. He is without resources of capital but has been well brought up & is of excellent character & disposition. If you can help this young man in his settling
[Page 173]
164
You will confer a very great obligation upon
Sir
Your obt & faithful
Brougham
[Page 174]
165
30.7.39
No 3.
Dear Jas Macarthur
It is some time since I have written to you, & as Sibella is now in a condition to write herself, I should not possibly do so at present was it not that I think Emily may be desirous of knowing how she goes on, from a more impartial pen than her own. Thank God she is decidedly better – less pain & inflammation in the joints than a month ago – but still a good deal of both. She is also thin & nervous from long confinement, want of exercise, & general discomfort for more than five months. A [indecipherable] the middle of June, Scott took her to Dr Chambers, & the latter was of the opinion that a little medicine would ch all to right. His expectations however were not justified by the visit and as everybody recommended warm sea bathing I took her, & the three younger children to Dover a fortnight ago & left her last week partly to attend
[Page 175]
my duties at the Bank, which are now become most anxious & difficult, & partly to convey the two older boys. I have been kept here longer than I intended by a bilious attack, which has confined my mother to her bed – but the latter is doing well, & I hope to join the Dover party in two or three days – my daily accounts from that place are favourable – All the children are well – Gerrard in better health than I ever [indecipherable] before – the infant a very fine little fellow – of myself I can also give a good account – with a superabundance of business, & no little botheration, I manage to keep up the fight far better, than I could have done some years back.
I have made some progress in a Poor Law Guardian’s [indecipherable], which if it be ever completed shall be sent to you. Pauperism does not affect the Colony now but will do so hereafter – for it is a disease deeply grounded in the principles of human nature –
Emily’s letter of the 16th March giving an account of your animals and Sydney, which by the way we know of previously, deeply interested us – It has been such
[Page 176]
167
to Mary, with strict instructions for its speedy return. How unfortunate is the long continued drought for Emily & the Emigrants [indecipherable] the effect of a first impression setting aside its still more important effect to the prejudice of the Colony at large. You must feel the burthen of feeding so many mouths, while provisions are so dear, & the wool must suffer in quantity & quality – God grant that the next letter may bring us news, that the long expected rains have fallen. All countries have some peculiar disadvantages. You are fortunate in having only one, which science & industry combined may at some future period [indecipherable] or at least diminish.
It seems to me that of all the new countries New Zealand is the last calculated for English Colonization, & that the projects now on foot can only fail of success from mismanagement.
The political situation of Great Britain just now is enough to alarm even a person of the strongest nerves. The Ministry can only by courtesy be said to govern, & the Tories feel themselves too weak to seize the reins. Indeed the best informed among them seem to think themselves far from power. The middle classes are apathetic, & the Working classes who take an interest in state affairs are Chartists, aiming at objects, which if realized would uproot society, bringing ruin
[Page 177]
on themselves in the first instance. The Giant & fundamental evil which besets us is ignorance – people do not know their real interest. Yet some from political, some from misdirected religious views oppose Education, The only true remedy. The picture I have traced is gloomy – still I am an optimist, & firmly believe that after all things will end well. The safty valves afford many securities against an explosion. Give my best love to Emily & believe me my dear James
Ever yours
Geo W Norman
Bromley [indecipherable]
30 July 1839
James Macarthur Esqr
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 178]
20.8.39
169
My dear James Macarthur
You are aware that upon principle I never trouble you with letters of introduction, when I can possibly avoid it – indeed hardly a week lapses in which I do not refuse applications for such claims on your time and attention – At present I am about to depart from my usual rule in favour of a distinct connection of my & Emily’s friend Mr Loyd, from whose house, I now write to you. The Genlm in whose favour I request your kind patronage, advice & assistance is Mr Joseph Taylor Armitage, whose
[Page 179]
father has long been in the habit of purchasing wool in England & on the Continent, & who is going to Sydney with the view of establishing a mercantile house, for the purchase of wool then I am not acquainted with him, but am informed that he is a very respectable [person] & thoroughly well acquainted with his business, so that he may afford you some valuable information.
I beg to add, that I did not agree to take this liberty with you, until I had communicated on the subject with the Major, & obtained his approbation – We long for letters from you, & hope they will bring news that rain has fallen – Give my kind love to Emily
& believe me
my dear James
Ever Yours
Geo W Norman
Hickham Park
20 Aug 1839
I rejoin Sibella at Dover this week – She recovers slowly – I wrote
[Page 180]
171
to you a week or two ago
[Page 181]
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
By favour of
I.T. Armitage Esq
[Page 182]
173
W E Gladstone to J Macarthur
Edinburg Nov. 26. 1839
My dear Sir
The bearer of this letter is Mr Blain a young man recently inducted with highly respectable parties at Newark well known to me, upon whose request I take the liberty of recommending him to your good offices in case he is so happy to meet with you in the land of his adoption. He goes to New South Wales with the intention of becoming a sheep farmer and he is about to repair to a person in the Colony with whom he will be able easily to acquire a knowledge of the business: he has also as I understand, from some
[Page 183]
in residence at Cambridge, a fair share of classical attainments, and is not altogether inexperienced in tuition: so that circumstances permitting he would be able to make himself of use in the Colony as a Tutor. Whatever you can do for him will be a favour to me but I trust you will measure and treat him according to his deserts
I trust you and your lady are well and with the best wishes I remain
My dear Sir
Very sincerely yours
W E Gladstone
Jas Macarthur Esq
[Page 184]
175
James Macarthur Esq
New South Wales
Howick
[Page 185]
176
Whitehall Place
Feby 3d 1840
My Dear Sir
I have been asked by the Dowager Lady Sefton to introduce to you her nephew Major St John who is about to leave the army for the purpose of settling in New South Wales, & I have accordingly given him that letter
[Page 186]
letter to you & I shall feel much obliged to you for any attentn or civility it may be in your power to shew him. I trust that you will find him & his family on accession to Australian Society.
I am My Dear Sir
Very faithfully Yrs
Howick
[Page 187]
Free
James McArthur Esq
Camden
NSW
C. J. Latrobe
[Page 188]
179
Latrobe to James Macarthur
Melbourne March 9. 1840.
My dear Sir
I have received your kind letter introducing Mr Cunningham to whom I shall be happy to render any services in my power – I make no doubt but he will equally be an acquisition to our part of the world if he really resolves to remain with is.
Mrs Latrobe joins me in returning thanks for you kind desire to renew acquaintance with us: whether at Camden or Melbourne. We shall have
James Mc Arthur
Camden
[Page 189]
equal pleasure. She joins me also in acknowledging your kindness in offering us some cuttings & fruit trees. I can only assure you that anything of the kind will be acceptable as we are forming a garden in self defence as we find it too bad to pay 6d for every cabbage we get & 3/ a doz for bad apples. I am glad to hear such good tidings of your vineyard. Some months ago 3 of the good Neuchatelois, seduced by the knowledge that we were here (Neuchatel is Mrs Latrobe’s native town) came out to cultivate the vine here, with the purpose of engaging a large number of their fellows to follow in
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181
case they found their prospects favourable. The country & climate they find everything they could wish but the enormous price of land has taken them aback. They had only brought out hundreds & if required thousands. You know I have no power. They are still undecided what to do – but I hope to get them the rent of a Govt. reserve or some other advantage to engage them & persevere. They are of a superior clan & are unwilling to throw away their labour upon what is not their own.
Peaches have succeeded very well indeed as far as they have been ytried at Port Phillip. I cannot conceive a better soil or climate for vegetables
[Page 191]
Pray when you see your worthy cousin Mr Hanibal Macarthur remember me to him
& believe me
My dear Sir
Yours very faithfully
Charles Jon Latrobe
[Page 192]
183
Edinburg 29 May 1840
My dear Mcarthur
This is a very special Introduction to you of one of our Chieftains, Glengarry, who wt his wife, Bairns, & a few retainers, migrate to your Colony – there to rest, & recover his strength, - and then return home – to lay his bonet with those of his innumerable Forefathers on the hill side.
I have been earnestly requested to give [indecipherable] MC Donell, a very particular introduction to you, - and [indecipherable]
[Page 193]
consider this letter in that light, and yield accordingly!
From what I hear, I understand that Glengarry, leaving behind him in his native distrct, a property of about £1500 farm, still his own, - carries out with him a capital of £8000 -, & his object is to turn this to the best possible account during his residence in N.S.Wales. It is in this vital point – of judicious investments, that your good advice will be chiefly required, & you must give it freely. Squatting, & Stock jobbing, will I presume
[Page 194]
be your prescription to Glengarry, & his little tribe, & the extent, & the locality, you must determine.- I am not personally acquainted wt our young Chief, [indecipherable] know him speak warmly in his praise – as a most aimiable man. The only defect I have heard ascribed to him is a want of Energy – rather a serious one in a person engaging in such an Expedition! But he may be [indecipherable] from this, whilst those who accompany him will help to remedy this defect, and I have no doubt whatever that Glengarry will zealously adopt, & follow at, whatever plan of life
[Page 195]
you & he may determine upon as the work likely to answer his purposes.
I need not say more in order to secure to our wandering Chieftain your best, & Kindred, assistance, for I know that you will consider his arrival as a valuable addition to your community, & his personal acquaintance as an acquisition to yourself, & family. I write this letter at the earnest request of one of my best, & oldest, Friends & she, in her feelings of anxiety for [indecipherable] Glengarry’s happiness, is just one of a very large circle of relatives, & Friends,
[Page 196]
who are deeply, & sincerely, interested in his success. You will probably receive other letters on this subject, but this has not prevented me from claiming from you – your best assistance, to [indecipherable] Glengarry, & his family.
I have had the pleasure of making Ly Marjonbacks acquaintance since I came to Edr. – I met her on Monday at dinner, at Mr & Mrs George Forbes, & iis at Mrs Forbes’ request that I now write to you.
[Page 197]
I tried to convince Lady Marjonbacks of the Blank [indecipherable] Mrs Mcarthur had drawn in the Lottery of Matrimony but whether I succeeded in convincing her, or not, remains to be seen! In the meantime, remember me Kindly to "The Invisible Girl", & believe me to be
My dear Mcarthur
Yrs most sincerely
P.M. Stewart
[Page 198]
187
Campbell Middell is here – writing for his wife – who is about to add an immigrant to your Colony. They will sail in Decr
You will find Mrs McDonell Glengarry a very pleasant person. She comes of a good [indecipherable], being connected wt the Tankerville Family, has five children & one half/equal to six on arrival [indecipherable] & she brings them all up well.
[Page 199]
James McArthur Esq
& do
Sydney
N.S.Wales
P.M. Stewart
[Page 200]
189
No 6 Give my kindest & love to Emily & believe me ever yours
GW Norman
P.S. 19 Augst I have called on Captn Mallard but he is not up
Befn 17th Augst 1840
17.8.40
Dear Jas Macarthur
I have been for some time on the point of writing to you & fully meant to have done so, on my return from a Cricket Match at Hayes this Evening, when on my table I had the pleasure of finding your letter of the 3rd April – When I go to town on Wednesday, I shall not fail to call on Captn Mallard, & will invite him here, as soon as Sibella is in a condition to receive him; for you must know that on 29th July she was confined with a 5th boy a very healthy thriving child, whom we could have wished to be a girl, & a companion for our little Charlotta; however that cannot be, & we must be satisfied with what Providence has given us – His Mother has had an excellent time, & came
[Page 201]
down today – we are in hopes that a fortnight in bed will have carried off the last remains of rheumatism, & at any rate are determined, that no act of imprudence shall provoke the return of that fell Monster.
The other children are quite well. Herman & Charles gone to Dr Mayo at Cheam – a painful separation for us but [indecipherable] I hope to be of service to them – we hear from persons who have seen them, that they are very happy.
We earnestly hope soon to learn that Emily’s confinement passed off well – You will of course send us the earliest intelligence, & from her robust frame & constitution & the example of her sisters, I am enabled to cast aside all gloomy apprehensions.
This has been a busy summer for me – In the spring I knew that I should be examined before the Bank [indecipherable] & was tormented by the anticipation, even more than the [indecipherable], although occupied their Legislative Highnesses as for [indecipherable]
[Page 202]
191
longer we [indecipherable] any business ever heard of. There seems to be [indecipherable] and waste of time, & every loss [indecipherable] on every [indecipherable] assembled, that of a Witness called at the Old Bailey to prove any [indecipherable]. My performance did not satisfy me I feel that I could & aught to have done better, still I believe that I expounded the truth, & upon reconsideration see no reason to alter my opinions
I have not of course seen your kind presents by the "Kinsman", but thank you much for them, & am sure they will greatly interest me – Boomarangs are now sold in all the Toy shops (but of course far inferior in quality to the Genuine) & shall be a great object of envy.
I had not seen the Major for some time, until last week, when he called upon me – He will come here shortly – I had a good account of Hobbes cote today-
You will have heard that Richard Stom has gone to India as a [indecipherable] – I am aware that you did not advance His course still I cannot blame Mr S for having adopted it – In fact, what else was he to
[Page 203]
idleness would have been ruinous, & he had nothing to substitute for it – Richards fate is now in his own hands - & he has had some severe lessons; I confess that from [indecipherable] over hope may aware of his future concerns it is but justice to him to say, that while in England his conduct was irreproachable
I have left myself no room for politics - & will only therefore say, that nobody comes to fear war – we shall probably avoid it, although I do not exactly perceive [indecipherable] I think Lord Palm decidedly wrong in his Turco-Egyptian policy.
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 204]
193
A. Morton
19th April 1841
21 Soho Square
My Dear Sir
I hope the portrait of Sir Richard Bourke will arrive safe in Sidney and also that it may be satisfactory to yourself and the Gentlemen who have kindly honoured me with the Commission
I think
[Page 205]
you will find, when the case is opened, that the picture, by its having been so long [indecipherable] up from the Light and Air will have got rather yellow. This however it will recover from in a short time by Experence.
Believe me with many thanks for your kindness
Yours truly, most humbly obliged
Andrew Morton
[Page 206]
195
To James Macarthur Esquire
Sidney
[Page 207]
196
Dinner to Mr Justice Burton
At St James School House Elizabeth St
On Thursday 27th May 1841.
Admit Mr Macarthur
Stewards
Baker. Lith.
6 O’Clock
N.B. You are requested to bring this Card.
Stewards Ticket
[Page 208]
197
W.E. Gladstone [indecipherable]
London June 4 1842
My dear Sir
Mr Lessing one of the members for Dublin University has requested me to introduce to your notice Mr Allingham who with his wife is about to emigrate to New South Wales. He describes Mr A. as a industrious young man who has received a diploma at the Dublin Lying in Hospital, and who is well qualified to act as a general physician as well as in the capacity of a surgeon & accoucheur. He considers both
[Page 209]
the character & abilities of this young man excellent and he describes his wife as a very exemplary young woman who has been using every exertion to qualify herself by training to act as a schoolmistress, and who is deeply impressed with the truths & influences of religion. I need not say that Mr Lessing is a person upon whose information in this matter entire reliance should be placed. I am in hopes that the arrival of emigrants of this character in New South Wales will be welcome to the community. And any in-
[Page 210]
199
structions you can afford to them will be of great value to them.
I remain my dear Sir
Very truly yours
WE Gladstone
Jas Macarthur Esq
[Page 211]
200
my [indecipherable]
Ever yours
GW Norman
No 9
Bank 31st Aug 1841
My dear Jas Macarthur
I have received your letter of the 20th March by the Royal George, & also the case of plants, for which accept our thanks – Aproportion of them died on the passage – the rest have had good attention paid to them, & are now flourishing under the skilful hands of Mr Barnes. I hear Sibella talk of repaying in kind this present, but have not heard particulars. The Garden Department as you know falls to her share in our [indecipherable] – a fact in which will account for & excuse my ignorance on this point
I have little domestic news to tell you – we are all well. The two boys at school – my mother going to Worthing tomorrow - & is talking about sundry excursions, some of which will probably take effect – One which would otherwise have really been accomplished
[Page 212]
into Scotland has been prevented by Mary’s arrival in England, for the purpose of placing John Marjoribanks with a clergyman preparatory to his going to Eton – So we shall see her at Bromley.
Mark Stone has been going on quietly for sometime – I hope that his father will send him out as a Cadet in the Autumn, instead of back to Haileybury , where I think he would again go so wrong – I have little confidence in either his good sense, or good principles – but if any thing can give him a chance, it will be to find himself in another hemisphere, quite out of the reach of old associations. He has accepted bills, & otherwise incurred large liabilities, which Mr S most properly refuses to pay.
Our poor old friend & [indecipherable] Mr Wells has failed, as you will perceive by the papers, & his nice place, & property are to be sold – He bears the flow most admirably. His brother will take care that he shall not want We are greatly
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202
interested in the obtainment of an [indecipherable] neighbour in his [indecipherable] – Mr Loyd has looked at the property, but will not I think purchase.
An explosion has I hear finally taken place between George Stone & his wife, which will lead to a final separation. You will hear more of this hereafter. Mrs S has been very unwell, but is now better.
The weather is now fine for the [indecipherable] & the [indecipherable] corn may reach an average crop – but the wheat must fall short both in quality and quantity.
Tomorrow we shall know the names of the new Govt. Peel & his friends promise the greatest to possible moderation & all sorts of reforms, including that of the Corn Laws. Yet his difficulties will be very great between friends & enemies of which he may find the first the most formidable – Never did a Party come into office, which maintained such silence as to the particular points of its policy. But will much be known on this head before perhaps the Spring – as a role of Gt
[Page 214]
& the renewal of bills for a year, are to tide us over this Session in a fortnight after the election – Never was the real as [indecipherable] of the Democratic principle in this country more decisively [indecipherable] than now. The Liberals are apparently beaten, & Toryism triumphant, yet the conquerors breathe not a word as to reaction – on the contrary in speeches, & writing, they hold onto universally promise vague & [indecipherable] factory [indecipherable] & improvements, acting thus under the irresistible impulse of the times, & [indecipherable] homage to a power, which cannot [indecipherable]
Give my best love to Emily, & a kiss to
James Macarthur Esq
Parramatta
New South Wales
[Page 215]
204
No 10 them, although I often think about them. At any rate. I beg you to give the former my best love, & the latter on both a kiss.
Believe me
Ever yours
GW Norman
Bank 7 Jan 1842
My dear James Macarthur
Although I have not heard from you since my last of the 31st Augst yet I will at least do my part in keeping up the stream of correspondence.
Little has occurred of interest at Bromley recently – I was attacked in the autumn by my old dyspeptic symptoms & suffered a good deal from them, but am now nearly well in that respect although labouring under a severe cold – Sibella, my mother, & the children quite well – The first alas in a state to increase our little flock some months hence. I had hoped that our quiver was full.
Mr Stone better than he was some time since, & as well as he is ever likely to be again. Our Papa remarkably well, in spite of the annoyance which Mark gives him
[Page 216]
The latter having failed to pass hi Examination at Haileybury, it is proposed to obtain a Cadetship in exchange for his [indecipherable]tership
I have received several Colonial newspapers giving an account of the Proceedings in the Legve Council. You do not like the [indecipherable] & conduct of the Authorities here – nor ever will, be they Whigs or Tory – The Major Colonel used to think that all would be right when Peel came in – I told him that he would be disappointed, & he begins to find it so. It is possible indeed that the Govt may do something in the way of immigration, & thus help you, but their main object inthis would be, not to help the Colonies, but to take off a certain portion of distress, & throw out a Tub to the whale here. In short I believe it to be impossible for my country however enlightened to govern well a colony at the other side of the world. You will always go on grumbling, & with reason, until the moment comes when you may be strong to do [nothank] us, & then you will cast us off.
I have sometimes speculated upon the possibility of placing scions of the royal stock at the head of groups of colonies,
[Page 217]
206
so as to give them a chance of preserving a monarchical Govt, should they choose so to do, after they become independent. But I presume nothing but Democracy would suit them.
The conflict in Parliament will soon begin & so far as can be yet discerned the Tories have no reason to fear their opponents – yet their differences will be great, especially those connected with finance, & many accidents might overthrow them at any moment – barring these I should give them a reign of five or six years – by the end of that time the inactions connected with their assumption of power will probably be strong enough to overthrow them. It is quite understood that something is to be done with the Corn Laws. The plan seems to consist in lowering the pivot, & altering the mode of taking the averages. Thus blowing hot & cold, in the hope of pleasing both parties. Telling the Bread calers on one side, that they shall get corn cheaper, & the Squirarchy on the other that prices shall not be lower. This may
[Page 218]
please both, or both may feel themselves humbugged. By thenway, our Farmers are likely to have another good year, for the wheat never looked worse at Xmas than now – the slug has been most destructive, & great breadths of land not sown, owing to the wet.
You are of course aware that in Sngla Agricl prosperity means bad crops, & high prices. Against adversity good crops & low prices. & is not thus with you.
I have been prosing on, almost forgotten that S had not mentioned Emily, & your child, until I have hardly space to name
James Macarthur Esq
Member of Legisl Council
N.S. Wales
[Page 219]
208
29.7.42
No 10 or 11
Dear Jas Macarthur
It is so long since I have heard from you, that I really forgot the date of your last which has reached me – at any rate I can say, that a scribble from me has been dispatched to you, since it arrived –
I presume that Sibella keeps Emily informed of the march of domestic affairs here – but she has not been able to inform her that on the 9th inst, we had a 6th son born to us, who with his mother prospers exceedingly – Nobody can go on better than they do. Having such a houseful of boys, we of course wished for another girl, but must be content with what Providence has sent us. The Child is to be named Philip, after our kind friend Mr Bouvane
[Page 220]
I began to think a good deal about a choice of professions, in this [indecipherable] crowded community. There [indecipherable] of course be a Lawyer – a Soldier – perhaps a Merchant or Banker, altho’ I do not like commerce, having always lost by it myself, & remarked I think it usually leads to [indecipherable] in others – but after all 2 or 3 Colonists will [indecipherable] – Your world is not likely to be crowded soon, & you will I think some day or other see a nephew or two arrive, and claiming your avuncular protection.
The last half year has been a very gloomy one with me. Constant ill health connected with stomachic & nervous arrangements has kept me in the hands of the Doctors, who after all have been able to do me little good. However for the last few weeks I have been getting a little better, & may indulge a hope that my malady is gradually passing away.
Out of this house my family news must be altogether of a gloomy character. Poor Mrs Roberts is almost past hope – her lungs being decidedly diseased - & Georgiana who has
[Page 221]
210
had a constant cough for more than a year, altho’ only the throat & liver are as yet said to be affected, is in a state at any rate to excite [indecipherable]. Dr Chambers has ordered her to reside during the winters at Hastings or the Isle of Wight.
It is long since I have seen the Colonel, partly because our house has been so full that for several weeks we could not have received him. He is always busy & seems to have the whole might of your Hemisphere on his shoulders.
I look over your Newspapers, & am much amused by them – especially by that proof of pure English [indecipherable] which your country men exhibit on a hereditary love of jobbery. Your Cornlaw affair was delicious. How could you be so cruel as to oppose it?
Here the political world is in a strangely confused state. Peel has earned for himself the bitter hatred of a large portion of his Party, and yet they cannot do without him. I cannot but think, that somebody or other in spite of past experience this passion will get the [indecipherable] of their reason & that I [indecipherable] will oust him, as in 1830 – The truth is , had they got now all
[Page 222]
they ever can get [indecipherable] Were they to attempt to govern as they wish 6 mos would produce a conflagration – And they [indecipherable] My Party feelings have [indecipherable] to Zero. I am become a mere Spectator
The distress which you read so much exists & I can hardly account for its [indecipherable]
Give my love to Emily & a kiss to my niece. Ever yours
GW Norman
Bromley [indecipherable]
26 July 1842
My Dear James
We hope this will reach you before one I mean to write Emily in a day or two but if it does you & she will be glad to have a few lines from my own pen to tell you that I am getting quite [indecipherable] as strong [indecipherable] I have [indecipherable] little boy who I wish was a girl but it must be best as it has to happen So I am content to have him healthy & thriving
I never write to you dear James because I write to [indecipherable] & Emily
I hope you are more together than you have been [indecipherable] Information must have annoyed you both
Give Em & yr child [indecipherable]
Kindest love [indecipherable] Believe me dear [indecipherable] SN
29th July 1842
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 223]
212
Whitehall
Oct 25 . 42
My dear Sir
I am sure it is hardly necessary for me to say in answer to your letter of April 14, which has just reached me, that any representation from you with respect to a pending measure would not have failed to meet my most serious attention.
But you have probably learned
[Page 224]
before this time that your wishes have been in the main ( [indecipherable]) met and your letter anticipated by the act of the last session. I have however read your statement with much interest. It explains to me what I did not before understand.
Those who may carry letters of introduction to New South Wales will have no reason I am sure to complain if they get through them the benefit of your advice, and will not join with you in terming
[Page 225]
214
that kind of aid a ‘barren’ service.
I write to Lord Stanley with respect to Mr Macarthur and I am sure he will have every disposition to give weight to your wishes.
I remain my dear Sir
Sincerely yours
WE Gladstone
James Macarthur Esq
[Page 226]
215
Riddell James Macarthur 6-1-43
My dear Macarthur
I heard yesterday that you and Mrs Macarthur how while in Sydney or the neighbourhood near by my [indecipherable]
Now I wish to impress upon you what [indecipherable] Mrs Riddell & myself
[Page 227]
if [indecipherable] would dine with us on Wednesday next and with Lady Maissubanks / [indecipherable] Wauchope who is staying with us for a very few days.
Am [indecipherable]
Mrs Riddell desires to
[Page 228]
In my [indecipherable]
C D Riddell
[indecipherable] Friday 6 Jan 1843
[Page 229]
218
21.2.43
No. 12
Dear Jas Macarthur
My last letter informed you of the birth of our 6th Son who is a [indecipherable] healthy child, with much intelligence & one tooth, & begins to roll about the floor in a very [indecipherable] manner. Our other children are well, & Sibella by my mothers talk in excellent health. Of myself [indecipherable] give a less favourable account, [indecipherable] my health is better than it was 6 mos ago, & a [indecipherable] an diagnosis as which had had proved very obstinate by those atuned important & disagreable consequences has yielded to an operation with Caustic & is apparently cured.
The two older boys have [indecipherable] returned to school – [indecipherable] chosen a profession He is to go to the Artillery or Engineers thro the Military College at [indecipherable] if he can succeed in passing, for which ordeal he has more
[Page 230]
than 3 years to prepare himself. He is not clever, but still I have great hopes for him. He shews perseverance, and a feeling of duty, his manner a well groomed strong & respectable boy – we destine Charles for Eton. Mr Stone is well & in good spirits. Henry is to embark for India in about a month. Mary has hired Mrs Egiston’s smaller housemaid Grassford for a year.
You will have learned thro’ Emily the misfortunes that befell us last Autumn. Their bitterness has a little [indecipherable] I do all in my power to comfort my [indecipherable] brothers, but that’s all can do at moment to [indecipherable] of loss their nature miserable.
From our [indecipherable] I now turn to [indecipherable]. The slight information [indecipherable] to Dr Bonsman’s imprudence, & its consequences given in yours of the 13 Augst has been [indecipherable] by the Colonel, so that I am most [indecipherable] acquainted with the facts of the case – I wish you well thro’ the [indecipherable] which your desire to save a near Relative
[Page 231]
220
have brought on yourselves, & most fervently desire, [indecipherable; effort may answer your brother has made up his mind not to go out to the Colony, a step which I have often advised, & which I feel would be advantageous to all Parties, especially as correspondence can never produce that perfect harmony of views, & that intimate acquaintance with the situation & progress of affairs, which would arise from information procured on the spot.
You may suppose that I am out of the path of pecuniary troubles, but it is not 100% - [indecipherable] all my ready money was invested in [indecipherable] has either inherited or purchased. The whole amount was $$169 000 - & cash full £4000 – I can not now value this property to more than £15000 – or £20000 & I could not realize even then a smaller sum by an immediate sale. The loss of income is very [indecipherable] & the loss of principal added to my sacrifice for poor Roberto renders me a much poorer man than some thought myself
[Page 232]
It is well that my expenditure has never been extravagant.
Hobbes Scott is in town, & is to meet the Colonel at Bs 6sm on Saturday
I have too to alter my interest in party politics & long debates. You who are a Legislator may enter into them. On the whole we wish well to Peel’s Govt, not thinking that we could replace it by a better. Give my best love to Emily, and a kiss to my Neice –
Ever truly yours
G W Norman
B of Engld
21 Feb 1843
James Macarthur Esq MC
Camden
New South Wales
Jas Macarthur Esq M.C
Camden
N.S. Wales
[Page 233]
222
Anderson to J Macarthur 26.6.43
I have carefully perused the Statement made by Mr Charles Couper at a meeting held at Picton – reported in the Herald Newspaper of the 28th January last respecting a conversation which took place in the Comt Room at Camden in my presence on the 28th December 1842, and I have also carefully perused the statement put forth by Mr William Macarthur at the Public Meeting held at Camden on 6th February 1843 and published in connection with the speech made by Mr James Macarthur on that occasion, and I declare without hesitation that Mr Couper’s version of the conversation, is with most material points incorrect, namely that in which he states that he [indecipherable] what appeared to him to be strong objections against dr Therry – whilst that of Mr William Macarthur, it to be the best of my recollection faithful [indecipherable] of what passed between Mr Couper and himself on the occasion.
M Anderson
26th June 1843
[Page 234]
No 3
[Page 235]
223
James Macarthur Esq
G Gipps
[Page 236]
224
Gipps
Parramatta July 5th 1843
Dear Sir or Madam: The unexpected result of the Cumberland Election induces me to ask you, as a Member of the old Council whether it would be agreeable to you to enter the new one, as a Nominee of the Crown one seat being still at my disposal
Very faithfully yrs
G Gipps
James Macarthur Esq
[Page 237]
225
Elderslie, July 5, 1843
My dear Sir
I need not assure you how much I am annoyed at the recent movement and its termination. I have no doubt but that the parties who took so active a part in defeating your election in the County of Cumberland will reject the course which they have taken, and ere long be glad to undo what they have so precipitately done – I will not, however refer to the past but immediately proceed to the main object of my letter which is the future Since I learned the result of the election I have been haunted with fears lest you should refuse in a moment of excitement to accept a seat in the Legislative Council. Pray weigh the matter well before you decline a post where I presume
[Page 238]
I presume you may act quite as independently as any representative of the people.
If you do not enter the Council you will not have equal facilities of shewing the Colonists that you are still the same individual that you have ever been. I am satisfied that by far the greater portion of those who opposed you would be glad to see you in the Legislature of the country. This I have been told by several, and had the attempt which was made here by the opposite party or some of them least succeeded you would have come in, but only second, a place which Mrs Forrest says she would have scorned o take. – Various causes have been assigned by parties for taking the steps which they have taken. Some say that in bringing
[Page 239]
Mr. Therry in from Camden you were advancing the Roman Catholic interests to the damage of Protestantism; others, that you had no right to bring into the Council a Government Officer, and thereby give a preponderance to the Governor’s influence there; and others, that they preferred Mr Cowper because he would look after their interests on this side of the water. – The first reason is very prevalent among the middle class of all protestant denominations; the second is advanced by a few, who, although I believe them to be moved by religious feelings alone, yet seeing the difficulty arising out of that view of the question, shift their point of opposition. The third I found very prevalent along the Narellan Road, and today I have ascertained from my servant that it had been used at CampbellTown
[Page 240]
I believe every one of the reasons untenable; and had not Cowper taken advantage of the tide he would have been defeated. A month’s sober reflection would have turned the scales in your favour and I am very much mistaken if before that time is expired a general regret is not felt at what has been done.
Allow me again to recommend you to go into Council. Independently of the reasons which I have given and which [indecipherable] more immediately to yourself, the duty which you owe to your Queen and country demands your presence there. I donot augur well of the legislative body, and cannot recommend a seat in the house as one of the most pleasant. Still
[Page 241]
229
it would annoy me not to see you there.
Mrs Forrest is equally annoyed with me at the treatment which you have received. She begs to join me in kind regards to Mrs James Macarthur, your mother and the family at Parramatta
I am, my dear Sir
Yours truly
R. Forrest
PS The messenger from Parramatta is gone and I must send this by the Post. R.F.
[Page 242]
James Macarthur Esq
The Cottage
Parramatta
Jly 5 1843
[Page 243]
231
Collaroy [indecipherable] July 8. 1843
My dear Macarthur
But for the extreme interest [indecipherable] I have felt in the result of the Cumberland election I should have replied to your brothers very kind letter about "The Vine" by return of Post. But I was unwilling to say a word about politics while the [indecipherable] was uncertain, & I could not write to you with reckoning that the Governor had appointed me one of the unofficial nominees, - & telling you of the pleasure I anticipated in cooperating with you, & benefitting by your counsel & experience in matters of State. In fact but for the moral certainty that you would have been one of the elected I much questioned whether I should have accepted the appointment. [indecipherable] the exception of 2 or 3 all the elected members are strangers to me Even by sight - & I fear there is but little
[Page 244]
prospect of harmony & good manners. The question now is – have you moral courage sufficient to take your place by my side as a nominee of the Crown? Before you have received this letter, tis will be decided & if you have accepted the Governors nomination you will have done an act of duty at a great personal sacrifice – a sacrifice wik will [indecipherable] much [indecipherable] credit – I have not written to you since you first embarked in electioneering matters – not because I was uninterested in your own success – but simply because my wishes were opposed to your own in the County of Camden - & when I put pen to paper I am apt to say things wih give pain unintentionally. The conduct of your supporters in Cumberland is to me wholly unintelligible – Their pledges were given at the time you were actively canvassing for Therry, & as the propriety of your conduct was wholly independent of the result of the election, whether for Therry or against him, I think their desertion of you all [indecipherable] spite & inconceivable folly- Therry [indecipherable] the worst taste in his personal attacks upon & depreciation of Cowper – but for this you not fairly answerable
[Page 245]
233
But enough of this subject – I hope you will not take a lasting disgust with colonial politics – In these times we cannot afford to lose you - & I am not without hope that you are at this moment of the Council in [indecipherable] capacity as nominee of the Crown – I shall be in Sydney by the 25th of this month - & my heart rather fails me at the prospect of [indecipherable] the area with our political gladiators so soon -. I shall then see you & William to whom pray express my best thanks for his [indecipherable] spirit -. I am expecting a visit from the Bishop – I hope he will not ask for contributions. I will give him a few sheep to boil down but [indecipherable]
Yrs very sincerely
EWF Hamilton
[Page 246]
James Macarthur
Camden
[Page 247]
234
Parramatta 18 Augt 1843
Respected sir,
Annexed you have acct of expenses for Election, which on examination we hope will be found correct, and at your early convenience we shall be glad to receive your check – you will perceive that we have reduced Greens a/c one half of which he has with great reluctance agreed to take.- We hold the Bills from each party, and if you desire it they can be seen by you at any time.
We are Respected Sir
Your very [indecipherable
J & W Byrnes
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
[Page 248]
235
Parramatta 18th Augt 1843
J Macarthur Wm Lawson Esqs in account with J & W Byrnes
Feby 24 To Cash pd Isaac printing 0 15 0
March 7 " do do do 0 15 0
April 11 " do Sundry times for Memo Book 3 4 8
" " " Refreshment at Lane Cove trip 12 0 0
" " " do Use of Steam packet 7 10 0
" " " do Two Men as pilots 0 5 0
" " " do A [indecipherable] Man 0 5 0
" " " do 1 parcel pr Coach 0 1 0
May 5 " do pd Isaac a/c printing 4 0 0
" 13 " do 2 parcels pr Coach 0 2 0
" 16 " do Electoral list Windsor County 0 6 0
" 19 " do Coach hire of parcels 0 6 0
" 20 " do Observer Accts 6 3 0
" " " do Herald do 6 2 1
" " " do Australian Chronical a/c 9 13 0
" " " do Australian a/c 1 7 0
" " " do Troods a/c Printing Cards &c 3 2 6
" " " do Refreshments Sydney Road 4 5 6 pr order of [indecipherable] Underwood
June 7 " do letters pr Coach 0 2 0
" 24 " do 4 letters pr do 0 4 0
" " " do 4 poles & Top for Banner 1 0 0
" 30 " do 1 parcel pr Coach 0 1 0
July 1 " do Mr Bowey Guilding &c 4 poles 3 0 0
" " " do Mr Bradley attending poling 2 0 0
" 15 " do S. Burge (4 flag bearers) 1 10 0
" 19 " do Town Cryer & posting Bills Sundry times 1 2 6
" 20 " do Hibloch & Lass a/c Fringe 2 18 0
" 29 " do E.R. Lough (poling clerk) 1 1 0
" " " do Mrs Watsford hire of horses 2 0 0
" " " do Hire of 1 pr Horses Carriage & man with Electors to Newtown 2 2 0
77 3 3
The accounts on this page are all paid
[Page 249]
To amt brought forward £ 77 3 3
Augt 17 " Amount of a/c Marsh and Leutherwite poling [indecipherable] 8 5 0
" " " ditto J Greenfield’ a/c ( Narrallan) 30 0 0
" " " ditto Edw Robinson " (Belmaining St leonnards) 5 0 0
" " " ditto Chas Blauchard " (Windsor) 42 8 0
" " " ditto do do " ( do) 3 18 0
" " " ditto Mrs Walthers a/c (Parramatta) 18 18 0
" " " ditto Chronical a/c 2d Claim 2 4 7
" " " ditto B. Issac’ a/c printing 28 9 0
" " " ditto Jno Ogles a/c poling (Windsor) 7 15 0
£ 224 0 10
Less W Lawson Estate proportion 112 0 5
112 0 5
July 20 To pay Cash Niblock & [indecipherable] a/c Singe paid by you x 2 18 0
Balance to Pay £109 2 5
Augt 23 Recd Payments J & W Byrnes
[90 degrees right margin] These Accounts are still unpaid [indecipherable]
[Page 250]
237
it used to be. Shame [indecipherable] many years losses, & [indecipherable] arose than sought – Give my kind love to Emily, & kiss my niece for me Ever yrs
GW Norman
Grisford dale
11 Sept 1843
Dear Jas Macarthur
I forgot the date of my last & can only say that it was written since the receipt of the most recent letter from you. I have therefore no questions to answer.
Letters from Emily, & many newspapers have put us in possession of your proceedings up to a late date. I cannot doubt but that you succeeded at the Election, but pity you for the annoyances it must have occasioned. I have had much experience, as an active partizan in the business of Elections & abhor them. One meets with so much ignorance & so much [indecipherable], tho nothing could induce me to plunge into the fight again, excepting the conviction that some high principle was at stake; a circumstance at present in this country little likely to occur. To be [indecipherable], I have [incecipherable] occasionally
[Page 251]
with [indecipherable] especially among the humbler class of voters. A seat in Parlt I never coveted formerly on the score of health, some other motives in addition.
Sibella had a fearful attack of [indecipherable] in the summer, which for some days filled me with alarm, altho’ I do not think that the medical [indecipherable] considered he in much danger. She is now quite free from disease, but weak, & excessively thin. The change of air & scene consequent upon our coming together with freedom from domestic cares, have done her great good. But we shall be happy to see home and our children once more at the end of the week.
I leave my wife to give the details of our peregrinations, & will only say that I do not consider Hobbes in first rate health or spirits – perhaps his years may explain this – Mary is fat & flourishing.
The commercial distress of England is quietly passing away, as I always knew it would in spite of Col. Torrens and the
[Page 252]
Newspapers – Iron is still the worst branch of manufactures. The enormous overproduction will require much time for its cure. The crop of corn will not reach an Average, but the Harvest weather has been magnificent. On the whole we shall probably have few of those complaints of A[indecipherable], which always follow abundant harvests & consequently lower prices.
Mr Bidwell pleased us much; we shall always feel pleasure in doing justice to your letters of introduction, especially to people like him.
The Colonel is in Ireland preparing a band of Prisoners for the expected Outbreak. I hope & believe that they will not be wanted. Still we must feel that Ireland is a charged [indecipherable] whose explosion may occur from any unexpected incident. Spark I fully believe that King Dan will [indecipherable] tranquillity if he can – but this wish may be frustrated, & he will not live for ever.
I hear that the state of the Colony
[Page 253]
is not what its friends would desire, & though a return to the old periods of prosperity can hardly be expected – Was I a [indecipherable] owner I should reckon on a permanency of low prices in Wool, upon the plain principle that no Commodity produceable in unlimited quantity can long sale for more than it costs. I hide this view, I should [indecipherable] economy in everything & acting upon this principle should fully expect fair profits, altho’ not the capital wealth, which fell to the share of speculators a few years ago.
My own principle position is not what
James Macarthur Esq
M.L. [indecipherable]
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 254]
241
G.W. Norman
13.12.43
I say nothing about poor Mrs Stone – leaving that to the ladies.
Dear James Macarthur
Your letter of the 21 July is now before me – You are as you allow not a very active correspondent, - [indecipherable] one my partner when one does assist to prize more highly.
The result of the Election must have annoyed you – the object which you had made great efforts to attain and had appeared for a long time within your grasp, must have obtained a portentious nature in your eyes, & the event must have caused you a [indecipherable] at the time. I thoroughly agree with you, that the loss of a seat in the Legislature is [indecipherable] which we ought to deplore & that
[Page 255]
your [indecipherable] from the claims of the Public, will be employed more advantageously , and more agreeably, as respects yourself on your private affairs.
The difficult position of the Colony is [indecipherable] by the Newspapers, and I can’t understand it. The remedy for the evils of N S. W are less easy to discover & apply. Some appears can never [indecipherable] or in other words should be considered as the rewards of a disadvantage in their [indecipherable]. I allude here particularly to the higher prices for Wool, have always foreseen that the competition of the Colonies [indecipherable] would produce this result, I have told the Colonel so [indecipherable] times. You will make ultimately be able to sell Wool for more than it costs you with a fair profit. The sale of property, helped up that of its products must also be expected to decline until the [indecipherable] of population has fostered agriculture & produced a value for land, irrespective of sheep feeding.
[Page 256]
243
I see so little of the Colonel, that I am very imperfectly informed as to any particular difficulties, which you have to encounter. You seem to allude to such, & so does Emily to Sibella. All I know from him, is that you have taken on yourselves some of Mr Bowmen’s engagements. It will afford us the [indecipherable] pleasure to know that you are well throw them
I see little that can be done for the Colony, excepting by the [indecipherable] amounts of Emmigration. That I believe is now gowing on to some extent.
I have seen Mr Potts & communicated your message to him much to his satisfaction, as his son [indecipherable] had appeared.
We are all fully well – I had an attack of Influenza in the Autumn. The Americans show rather more dispositions than heretofore to pay their debts – but their roguery diminishes my income seriously, & with increasing expenditure exposes me to pecuniary cares.
Give my kindest love to Emily –
Ever your
Geo W Norman
Bank of Engl 13 Decr 1843
[Page 257]
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 258]
GW Norman 245 16.1.44
I told you in former letters, how much I had lost by those rascally Americans – I am holder of Pensylivania Stock, on which the Dividends will probably be paid – Shall my losses in Yankie land will not fall short of £20000 [indecipherable]
Dear Jas Macarthur,
It is long since I have heard from you, and I have written to you since; still I will not allow our correspondence to cease, because you are tardy in performing your part of it, especially as I have a few things to say to you.
I presume that my Wife keeps yours well informed as to our domestic affairs, & will therefore say little as to them – our younger children have all been unwell, but are better, altho’ not yet out of the Doctor’s hands – I look forward to Sibella’s confinement with some anxiety – she is quite well, & has hitherto got through troubles of that kind, betters than most of the daughters of Eve – Still there is a [indecipherable] attending the event to which I cannot shrink my eyes, & I shall be truly thankful when all is over – I am well satisfied on the whole with our children –
[Page 259]
There is no genius among them, but [indecipherable] of talents, to enable tham, to discharge the ordinary duties of life with respectability. The grand difficulty will be, to give them good moral, & religious principles, & I think this must be out task - & an anxious task [indecipherable]
I often hear from the Colonel, who writes me long, & sensible letters on the tales of Ireland, & on the means of improving the condition of N.S.W. – He also looks now to imagine that you are still feeling the effects of the calamities that have befallen the Colony, although I hope are a diminished degree – How you have got [indecipherable] land in the [indecipherable], I know but very imperfectly.
At the Colonel’s request, I have had an interview with Mr Pott the father, in consequence of his having refused to accept a bill drawn by the son, & endorsed by you – I fully believe him, to be an honourable & conscientious man, & that you will get your money. If the matter is properly explained to him – He told me that his son had drawn far greatly more than the sum placed at his disposal – That he had in fact paid more than he had [indecipherable] That your bill came with others, without a word of explanation from the young man
[Page 260]
247
who in fact has not written to him for a long time, I think he considered himself bound in duty , not to sacrifice the future of his other children to the folly of one – He further said that he had heard from you, but that you [indecipherable] – letter had not contained sufficient explanation as to this bill, to enable him to make an exception in your favor – but I think he was quite ready to give any thing you might say the most candid attention – The above I think a fair summary of our conversation but the Colonel may have sent to you what I wrote to him, when my recollection was fresher – I recommend you to write to him fully – I think it probable, altho’ Mr Pott did not say so, that the circumstance of you having hand and indirect interest in the sale of their papers [indecipherable] mad out so ill, may have produced an unfavourable impression on him.
I now want to trouble you on a small matter of business –
A man named W. Plumb was transported for smuggling in 1828. He lived in the service of Mr Nelson Lawson (is he your opponent?) at a place named Coola & acquired some property consisting of a Farm – Sheep &c & died on the 20th March 1844 – His relatives have learned this
[Page 261]
mainly by a letter from a Mr Nicholas H. Bailey but the deceased often wrote to his family –
W. Plumb’s son & heir at law worked for some time in our garden, & is now a Soldier in the 75th regiment. My request to you, is that you will let me know anything you can learn about the property & tell me what is to be done to obtain possession of it, or its value, for his heir.
I have said nothing about Emily, but often think & talk of her, & send he my best love, & a kiss to my young niece. Believe me,
Dear Jas Macarthur
Ever yours
Geo W Norman
Bromley Commn
16 Jany 1844
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
[NB Post Office stamp dated 17 Jan 1845]
[Page 262]
249
G W Norman
No 14 By Common20th Feby 1844
Dear James Macarthur,
I wrote to you last on the 13 Decr & therein told you, that I had seen Mr Pott, & spoken to him on the subject of his son’s dfts for the purchase of the Newspaper. From what he said, I can have no doubt but that those dfts were duly honoured. I hear some members of the family complain that the young [indecipherable] does not write to [indecipherable] as often as he ought – It would be kind of you to give him hint on this subject – I have a few [indecipherable] from you of July and Augst referring to the above affair, mentioning the distress under which the Colony was suffering, & asking if I do not think, that the Banks would act wisely in reducing the sale of interest to 5 [indecipherable] & ? This is a question that I am unable to answer without a more perfect knowledge of facts than I possess – I can merely say, that the Banks
P.S. 21st Feby Mr Stone died yesterday morning
[Page 263]
ought to follow their own interest – taking a wise & enlarged view of it – Capital is not sold, but is lent, or hired, & interest is the sum paid for it – The lender demands for the use of it the highest possible sale – the borrower offers the lowest, & the parties meet at some middle point. The limit to the borrower is measured, by the profit the capital will yield, or the loss which it will save to him – In either view of the transaction, I should think 5 [indecipherable] is unnaturally low rate of intst for N.S. Wales
I hope to God that you take too gloomy a view of your own troubles – You refer to a letter to the Coll in which they are detailed – but he is in Ireland, helping to keep down the Repeaters – He writes me very interesting political [indecipherable], but nothing about your affairs –
I can have no doubt but think N.S.Wales will recover, & once more , a flourishing country – but I have no idea, that the profit on Sheep farming can ever become again ar continue to be what it once was. The competition of your own Wool Growers will prevent this – They commit permanently
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251
obtain more than a fair rate of profit, altho’ this fair rate, will be a Colonial sale, and therefore high –
The hand of death is still busy in my Wife’s family – Mr Stone has long been declining – now & then indeed it has been said that he had gained ground, but the improvement has been mainly temporary & I have no hope that his life can be much prolonged – A few mos perhaps weeks is all I can hope for – He is confined at Dr Sharpe’s in London, & has noy been at Chislehurst since the Autumn – neither Julia, Caroline now Eleanor are in good health.
We have had a prosperous winter – My Mother Sibella & I have coped without influenza, the children have had severe colds – Herman is at school at Woolwich preparing for the Academy – Charlie at Cheam, whence he will go to Eton – Gerard has a Tutor here, as his health required a Mother’s watchfulness.
The Parliamentary campaign has begun. & we are in the middle of a dragging debate on Irish affairs, in which every body, excepting perhaps Lord Howick, shirks the truth, which everyone of sense feels – An abatement of the insult & injury of the established Church must be made. That would not cure of itself much
[Page 265]
of the existing evil – but it is a necessary accompaniment of the remedial measures, which would not work without it – An article [indecipherable] in the Edinbrough Revw by Senior is the best thing that has been published on the subject.
The landed people are very busy just now, & with their numbers & the Govt steady – But on the other hand the nonsense they talk must weaken their hold on the public at large –
I shall be anxious to receive your next letters & hope they will tell us that your trouble are over I have had a fair share of pecuniary losses – Thus basically Bankers have stolen almost all my ready money. Give my love to Emily & my Neice –
Ever yours
Geo W Norman
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 266]
253
33 York Crescent Clifton
Friday April 26th 1844
My Dear James
Time has crept on faster since we received your afflicting intelligence of my dear departed Brother than I bear scarcely [indecipherable] of. The Effect of so sudden & unsuspected a bereavement you can better suppose than I can describe – but I am thankful to say my loved Mother has borne the trial with greater [indecipherable] & is under the blessing of our heavenly & merciful father as well as we could possibly expect. We are both most thankful to you dear James for you writing so Immediately as well as for the consolatory account of his having been lately with you [indecipherable] Would that he had been with you at the Moment but its otherwise Willed & we must not [indecipherable]
[Page 267]
Poor fellow, his seems to have been a life of [indecipherable] & that he should have been called at the moment that his property would be of the least value is [indecipherable] or unfortunate – but you will I know do all that [indecipherable] best to be done as if it were your own or for one dear to you – You can I know in case of the claim my dear Mother had for the money she advanced for his outfit & for which he gave his promissory note of £824 bearing interest at five per cent [indecipherable] with the simple interest, deducting what she had received amounts [indecipherable] to upwards of £1300 & to you I need not say what a matter of vital importance it is to her that she should not lose it as it is the greater portion of what Mr Thompson left her. She having given up her annuity for the consideration of £1200. [indecipherable] I could collect my thoughts after receiving your letter I [indecipherable] whereas your brother Edward, I wrote to him for his advice how I had best proceed & [indecipherable] you
[Page 268]
255
his answer I merely send it you as he sent it to me but leave everything to you as he sent it to me as at this distance of course I can form no opinion but know you will act for me as for your own sister. The power of Attorney is prepared & made out to you & William or either, as it was thought best to do so & we hope to have it signed to day or tomorrow by the Mayor of Bristol it seems that documents of that kind going abroad are better signed by him than any other Magistrate –
Mr Charles Bevan (who you will see has prepared it) tells me the St George said to be a fast sailing [damage] is going in a fortnight it will probably [damage] sent by her but this letter I shall put into the post myself in the hope that it may be sent immediately – I hope this will find you & all dear to you well. Remember me affectionately to your dear wife also to dear William and to your kind mother offer mine & my Mothers affect. thanks for all her kindness & affection to my loved & lamented Brother & with our sincere prayers for the well being of all of your united family circle. Believe me dear James as [indecipherable]
Your affet friend
Eliza S Homfray
I have dated this from present residence; but your direction of Clifton on Bristol is the best
[Page 269]
James Macarthur
Camden
New South Wales
[Page 270]
enc. ap. 1844 257
Extract from Edwards letter
"You desire my advice as to the mode in which your Mothers claim of £1400. Upon his estate is to be preferred. I would recommend her after having had an attested copy of the Note of hand, formally made out, with the sum paid & interest due noted on the back to transmit with a Power of Attorney to act on her behalf, to my Brother James.
There are no doubt other claims on the Estate & supposing it to be sold She would receive a proportionate Dividend out of the proceeds. But to sell a productive Estate at such a
[Page 271]
juncture except under urgent incapacity, would be an act of improvidence; & I think my Brother should be advised to find someone into possession who would manage it for consideration, and pay the interest of the Debt out of its net returns"
[Page 272]
259
Homfrey 15.5.44
My Dear James,
I wrote you on the 26th April telling you that the accompanying papers would be sent at that time but lest you may not have received that letter I have also enclosed a copy of it & by so doing need not at present enter further on this subject.
You will probably have heard of the death of my Aunt Mrs Plummer She died almost suddenly on the 29th April; she was on a visit & apparently in high health at the Candales in Surrey. [indecipherable] most fortunate as both Emma
[Page 273]
& Isabella were enabled to be with her Lanny is already This of course is a great shock to my loved Mother coming so recently on the [indecipherable] She felt it extremely but I am thankful today she is now tolerably well & will I hope daily gain ground.
And now I wish to turn to a happier subject and offer you & all your family our sincere congratulations & best wishes on the Marriage of your sister Emmaline, may it [indecipherable] one of contentment & unending happiness to her dear James is the affectionate
[Page 274]
261
prayer of one who must ever feel the interest of a sister in you all.
You will be glad to hear my children are all well [indecipherable] Walter sat Oxford, I am thouhgful to say [indecipherable] the same steady good creature he has been, & his dear Brother at present since [indecipherable] as far as you judge of following his example. Your dear little little girl is I think quite well by now I suppose she has companions. [indecipherable] one affect. [indecipherable] and believe me dear James
Your [indecipherable] friend
Elizabeth Homfrey
Clifton
15th May 1844
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James Macarthur Esq
Camden
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263
Eliza Homfrey
Copy
33 York Crescent Clifton
Friday April 26th 1844
My Dear James
Time has crept on faster since we received your afflicting intelligence of my dear departed Brother than I bear scarcely [indecipherable] of. The Effect of so sudden and unsuspected a bereavement you can better suppose than I describe – but I am thankful to say my loved Mother has borne the trial with great resignation& is under the blessing of our Heavenly & Merciful Father as well as we could possibly expect. We are both most thankful to you dear James for you writing so immediately as well as for the consolatory account of his having been so lately with you & we would that he had been with you at the Moment but its otherwise Willed & we must not [indecipherable]
Poor fellow, his seems to have been a life of trial & that he should have been called at the moment that his property would be of the least value is perhaps as unfortunate – but you will do all that can be, & is best to be done as if it
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were your own or for those dearest to you – You are of course aware of the claim my dear Mother had for the money she advanced for his outfit & for which he gave her his promissory note of £824 bearing interest at five per cent the sum with simple interest, deducting what she had received amounts now to upwards of £1300 & to you I need not add what a matter of vital consequence it is to her that she should not lose it as it is the greater portion of what Mr Thompson left her. She having given up her annuity for the consideration of £1200. As soon as I could collect my thoughts after receiving your letter & could learn where your brother Edward be, I wrote to him for his advice how I had best proceed & enclose you his answer. I merely send it you as he has sent it to me but leave everything to your better Judgement as at this distance of course I can form no opinion but know you will act for as for your own Sister. The power of Attorney is prepared & made to you
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& William or either, as it was thought best to do so & we hope to have it signed to day or tomorrow by the Mayor of Bristol it seems that documents of that kind going abroad are better signed by him than any other Magistrate –
Mr Charles Bevan (who you will see has prepared it) tells me the St George said to be a fast sailing sailing vessel is going in about a fortnight it will probably be sent by her but this letter I shall put into the post myself in the hope that it may be sent immediately – I hope this will find you & all dear to you well. remember me affectionately to your dear Wife also to dear William & to your kind mother offer mine & my Mothers affect. thanks for all her kindness & affec to my loved & lamented Brother & with our sincere prayers for the well being of all of your united family circle. Believe me [indecipherable]
Your affet friend
Eliza S Homfray
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Extract from Edward’sletter
"You desire my advice as to the mode in which your Mothers claim of £1400. upon his estate is to be preferred. I would recommend her after having had an attested copy of the Note of hand formally made out with sum paid & interest due noted on the back, to transmit with a Power of Attorney to act on her behalf, to my Brother James.
There no doubt other claimants on the Estate & supposing it to be sold She would receive a proportionate Dividend out of the proceeds. But to sell a productive Estate at such a juncture except under urgent incapacity, would be an act of imprudence; & I think my Brother should be invited to someone into possession who would manage it for consideration, and pay the interest of the Debt out of its net returns"
Copy of letters
Sent 26th Apl 1844
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267
Sydney 31st May 1844
My dear Sir
I have been for several weeks, I may say intending to write to you, but business has put my intentions aside. First to tell you of the success, so far, of the wine which you kindly supplied me with. & then upon some other little matters. The cask of wine turned out remarkably well – quite clear to the last bottle & is laid carefully aside for the summer when I will give you a further input. I also am indebted to you for it pecunnarily, & will discharge the amount to you direct, unless you allow part of it to be the subject of [indecipherable] which I am next to remit to you. I am informed by my colleagues the Masters of Barwon School, that you kindly promised them a subscription of 5£ on account of their undertaking, and have been requested by them to ask you to be good enough to give it to them – and as they are in debt for the building, it will be very useful at this moment. I will therefore if if I have your authority in doing so send you a receipt for the 5£, & apply it to the fund of the Masters and inform them of having done so. Let me have your pleasure [indecipherable]
Best, I must
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ask you to be good enough to reserve some Vine cuttings for me. I have a small piece of land at St Leonards, (North shore of Sydney Harbour) where I have been trenching & preparing my ground, and tho my wants are trifling, and I am ashamed to trouble you with them, yet I am anxious to [indecipherable] but cries for my [indecipherable] I should like about 200 for a trellis, and 300 more for standards – all table grapes only, and amongst them some of the very fine purple grape of which your Mother, & afterwards you, gave me some on my last Circuit.
I am disappointed at not seeing you when you were last in Town; but I know your time is greatly occupied. I should be peeved indeed if – I thought any other cause prevents me from the pleasure of your company when you come to Sydney, as and [indecipherable] the case in days gone by.
What a hash the Governor and his advisors are making of every thing connected with legislation! I will not be surprised if the recent Rumbles give in to a disputation. The legislative machine
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269
seems to require some new teeth.
I hope your mother & Mrs Macarthur, & the little one are well. Mrs Burton is rather better I think than usual. She was at the [indecipherable] Ball the other night – a sad squeeze - & neither well managed nor well conducted – I have not seen a supper of the kind for seven or eight years & shall [indecipherable] as inclination to try to see each another ill arranged affair as the last.
With Kind regards to your Brother and Mrs Macarthur
I remain
My dear Sir
Very sincerely your friend
WW Burton
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James Macarthur Esq
Camden
WW Burton
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271
Sydney 18th June 1844
My dear Friend You will have seen by the papers, as is the fact, that I am once more to leave the Country where I have so many friends; and where there are so many objects of peculiar affection and interest to me; so many indeed, that I fear it may be almost necessary to apologise for a seeming desertion of them; but yet hope now this supposition will not be unkindly entertained, and that I shall not seem to my friends to be leaving a field of duty and usefulness, from motives of ambition and cupidity. The change which is thus taking place, has taken me much by surprise, and my mind has been greatly affected by it. It does not come to me as an offer, which I am at liberty to consider upon, either to accept or decline; but as was the case when I was removed here from the Cape of Good Hope, it is as transacted in England without my knowledge: with this difference however, that the former was affected without the knowledge of my friends, covertly and secretly in the Colonial office, and was a prejudice, and almost a serious injury to me; and the present removal is at the instance of my friends , and without the Colonial office having anything to do with it, and is greatly to my advantage. The circumstances however which have led to it were simply these. When I was removed from the Cape Lord Ripon, then Lord [indecipherable] was at the Head of the Colonial Office, and upon my complaint of the [indecipherable] of removing me, against my
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consent and at a great loss from a Country where I was happy and contented to remain, to a place, I then detested the very name of, at a pecuniary sacrifice, loss of [indecipherable] loss of means, loss of friends, and with no advantage of any kind, His Lordship acknowledged that I had a claim to future consideration and promotion, and promised to give it to me, at any tome, when it will be in his power to give me promotion, with due regard to the claims of others. When Lord Ripon took office under the present administration, he was reminded of his promise, and a vacancy occurring in India, my Brother applied specifically for that, and he gave me the appointment. He had then been in office more than two years; and though, I had no knowledge or expectation of a vacancy occurring in India; & I had given up all expectation of advancement, [indecipherable] than in the usual progress of events in this Colony; By a singular contradiction of action, my friends were applying for me in England, at the very time when I was writing from hence, lest they should abandon any further anxiety concerning me; promises of promotion not fulfilled for so many years as I have been absent from England I thought; had no greater likelihood of being fulfilled in the same length of time to come, and I denied that neither they, nor I should be unsettled any more on the subject. Before this communication reached England I had been appointed; and as they had my authority to accept for me anything which they considered for my benefit, and I have consented to
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go to India if appointed there, any objection on my part would now be quite out of place. However, I will not conceal from you or any of my friends, that the station of a judge and his advantages here are not such as to satisfy the fair and reasonable expectations of a man qualified to fill it. The emoluments in my time, have been insufficient to allow of any saving - ; and in my own case, first the loss of means by coming here, and then my expenses in going to England and returning, have left me in shoals and shallows, and prevented very much even my usefulness in those things, to promote which liberality is needful: there is no retiring pension to look forward to:- not even a modicum for one’s widow :- nothing in short but a mere maintenance for the present, and nothing for the future. I have felt uneasy under this state of circumstances; and not unnaturally sought for relief; and my friends have been more active in seeking for it than I :- for, often simply causing Lord Ripon to be reminded of his promise, I left the matter to Providence; and entertained no sanguine expectation at any time, founded upon that promise -; & what I had, I had abandoned long before the news of my appointment.
And now my dear friend, I must express my regret that this change will cause a separation, temporary it may only be, of me from your society; I have enjoyed but little of it, since we both returned to the Colony: but I have ever enjoyed the confidence of your friendship, and of that of your brother and all the members of your family; and I [indecipherable] I had always friends
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to support me, and upon whom I might rely for it, upon occasion: my brother, whom zeal has been so recently exerted for me, wrote when you interested yourself in my behalf some years ago; "no brother could have shewn a warmer or more affectionate zeal in your behalf". I have even remembered that time - & [indecipherable] believe it; and my Heart will always value and I [indecipherable] certain of its affection towards you. Permit me therefore to thank you and your brother through you for all instances of your good will to me, and your [indecipherable] esteem for me, and of support from you. And believe me to remain [indecipherable] and sincerely
Your affectionate friend
WW Burton
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
PS I have written hastily, & under frequent interruptions, and have been obliged to correct my letter in some parts, to express my meaning: I hope it will convey to that I do mean. WWB
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18-6-44 275
18th June
W.W. Burton to James macarthur
My dear Friends
I am advised to take horses with me to India.
Can you help me to good handsome pair fit for a gentleman’s carriage – out of your stud – both less than 4 or 5 years old – Such as if any I might to take with me.
[indecipherable]
WW Burton
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276
20.6.44
My dear Macarthur
I heard last night of your being in town; and have written to you at Camden by Wednesday mornings post: one of my objects in so doing, being, to try if you could help me to a pair of good [indecipherable] carriage horses, such as I ought to show at [indecipherable] as New South Wales produce.
I am going to my North Shore ‘[indecipherable] village’ this morning but let me know if you can spare me an hour to dine before you again
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leave town.
Yours faithfully
WW Burton
[indecipherable]
20th June 1844
[Page 291]
[indecipherable] River October 2 1844
Sir
I hope and trust you will pardon the liberty taken in addressing you but as you was so kind as to say you would see me paid the balance that was due to John Wheel deceased I considered it most provident in me to write to you sir than Mr Davies the Ten pound one shilling and eleven pence that I received of Mr Mac[indecipherable] I have paid doctor Waugh five pound & his Bill amounting to – six pound twelve so that I have one pound twelve to pay Dr Waugh and i have paid four pounds to John Bolsworthe so you will perceive sir that their was very little left for us, sir I shall be Truly thank full if you would be kind enough to let me have the
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remainder that was due to poor Whale to enable me to settle with everyone that he owe anything to. Sir it is not in my power to settle his little Debt unless I get what was due to him it being his last wish that I should settle everything that he owed sir
I remain
Your most obedient humble servant
James Goodwin
To
Mr James Macarthur Esq Jp
Camden
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280
[appears to be some sort of map]
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To
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
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282 Tingombe John 9.3.45
My dear Sir
My Brothers have determined on entering into a partnership in the purchase of sheep, and are desirous of obtaining one hundred ewes for which they would pay one half cash, and the remainder by a bill at three years [indecipherable] bearing interest, with the option of retiring the bill, whenever they might have the means of doing so.
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The bill would have my indorsement, if required.
Should you have this number of sheep to dispose of, and the terms meet your approbation, I should feel obliged by your informing us of this offer, and the prices which you would expect for them.
Yours very truly
John Tingcombe
Monday 9 March
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Jno Tingcombe
9th March 1845.
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285
My dear Sir,
I feel very thankfull for your kind invitation to visit Camden Park, during its interesting time of the Vintage I Mons. Gorlent, I am sorry, is not able to leave his office, and as you had the Himself of expressing the wish that he could have a companion the voyage, I will take the liberty of introducing to you a young countryman of mine Mons Eugene Delesbert. He is a gentleman who has been very particularly recommended to me, belongs to a very respectable family, is a nephew of Baron Deletsest [indecipherable] and is going to join his ship in China. I intend to [indecipherable]to morrow in my own gig, sleep at Liverpool and be able to enjoy your company before six o clock on Monday I have a French whaler; she is to sail, tomorrow, say. The Captain, and I hope he will, if for that cause, or on account of the weather, I was unable to leave tomorrow, I pray you not to take any trouble
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about it, as I will arrive any other day at the proper hour, and avoid to create any inconvenience in your home regulation.
I am my dear Sir
Your most obedient servant
Faramond
Saturday 29th of March
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Jas Macarthur Esq
Camden Park
Camden County
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288
Victoria June 16th 1845
My dear James
I can assure you that although I have been so long silent I have nothing condemning me in my conscience – You ought to have had a letter congratulating you on your happy nuptials & arrival at Camden, as it was sent, but I found afterwards, and at great lapse of time, that the fellow entrusted with the details did not forward them and having alluded to the public letter afterwards in my correspondence with the Colonial Secretary, I had a demand for copies – thus I ascertained the fate of all the rest.
In the midst of much interruptions I endeavour to avail myself of this very favourable conveyance to express my affectional –
James McArthur Esq
Camden NSW
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solicitude for your well being and happiness, more especially to congratulate you on the generally expressed opinion that public affairs (so much involving your interests) are improving in the Colony – and that property will attain a more permanent value than heretofore it has done, whilst fluctuating under the influences of fictitious means – the mere contrivances of a/c calculations I hope and trust you will all escape from the difficulties without serious injury –
My dear James, you must have been aware I presume of the pressure of my circumstances as I was – However, certain it is Sir Gordon Brenner could not foresee
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the sudden & extraordinary combination of affairs which removed him from us – to this circumstance I am chiefly indebted- You are also aware of the more recent circumstances and the great addition made to my income so that I am quite prepared, - and my very heart rejoices to say it – to return your kind loan, only say how and where – and may He who gave you the generous heart, and whose are all the gold and silver and the cattle on a thousand hills, not only supply all you need but fill your coffers ten thousand fold adding thereto that blessing which maketh rich indeed, though you might in these temporals be poor – Let me at least say, I gratefully feel your readiness
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to assist, more than I do the deed itself – and as far as I can see, but for you I must have abandoned my purpose. May God grant to us both, breaths to understand his ways and to praise Him.
I have been silent, much on account of my depressed spirits – I have been shamefully neglected, if I may not say ill treated – [indecipherable] oft by difficulties, oft by painful spectacles, all producing anxiety – but under the present position hope to benefit at least by a release from much uneasiness that was caused by the conduct of others- My Detachment has suffered more than I was willing to suppose they would; but at this moment daily improvement is
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292
is visible. And I trust we whale see more confirmed health.
You will, I presume, desire to hear some account of the cattle sent by you. One of them died a few weeks after landing, I am ignorant of the cause, but the animal never appeared to be so well as the rest of them – I think there are four calves all prospering – they give us some trouble in keeping them from going astray. I hear strangers express an opinion that they are small, there has not been much growth since they arrived –
I believe I must refer you to Captain Blackwood for more general information respecting us, as my hands are full of employment
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Should you have an opportunity of forwarding a few well rooted orange slips, you will benefit us – those received were all apparently but recent from the parent stem, and not one of them has struck. Three or four young trees are doing well, I think Sir G Gipps procured them. That Gentleman’s attentions and kindness are unceasing, and when I contrast him with the cold indifference, to which I was really becoming accustomed, of some other parties, any trifling attention is much enhanced, I can never sufficiently acknowledge them.
With respect to myself I have only to add, that I hope my constitution has not suffered much, you know I was
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ever among the croaking tribe – as to the future, prospects of being so happy as to be surrounded by my dear wife & children are of a very prospective character – I should never think of bringing them here. Should the suggestion to remove the establishment meet with approval – then I must adventure upon something of thr kind – but dearest Mary would never survive this climate long – We must be content at present with the certainty that many [indecipherable] have far more reason to say whose troubles are like [indecipherable] my troubles –
I can only now [indecipherable] that the contents of the box are intended as my affectionate offering to my fair cousin, if perchance I may be so deceived nothing
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at least let me ask your influence and doubtless it will suffice.
What is William doing – is he an avowed Benedict, or like the stricken Hart, gone to moan in solitude? Or shall we all see him presently rejoicing over his Bride?
I must now, with apologies for such negligent writing, claim your advocacy in maintaining my unalienable title to present my affectionate love to my venerable Aunt and to all the members of your Family Circle-
And believe me my dear James to be your grateful & affectionate cousin
J McArthur
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296
28.11.45
My dear Sir
I beg to enclose a letter from my relative Adam Smith. On leaving England some five months ago, I anticipated that the destination of 11th Regt would be New South Wales.
It seems however to be otherwise arranged. Our Head Quarters are at Hobart Town, and after a sojourn of a few weeks between
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Launceston and Hobart Town I am writing this on board the brig Louisa on route to Norfolk island, in which honourable banishment I expect to pass the next eighteenth months. We are still nearly 300 miles from our destination after having been 15 days from Launceston.
This tedious passage after a voyage from England with only a short respite on shore has thoroughly
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sickened us of moving especially by sea, and we desire nothing more than to be left quiet for a time even though it be at Norfolk island. It is not a very encouraging commencement to one’s career in this part of the world.
Adam Smith proposed returning to India last Autumn; his movements however were not certain and if he should return, I fancy that it will be
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but for a short time.
Yours faithfully
JJ Grant
Capt 11th Regt
Twelve months ago I was quartered with the 38th Regt. In the Co. Roscommon and frequently met your brother Colonel McArthur, then on the Staff in Ireland. I observe that he is since removed to Sligo.
At Sea on board "Louisa"
28th November 1845.
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enc 300
Plymouth 27th June 1845
My Dear McArthur
Captain John Grant visits your part of the world with his Regt the Queen’s 11th foot: allow me to introduce him to you as a Friend & relation of mine in whose welfare I am much interested. A part of Captain Grant’s family accompany him, and as every thing will be new to them on arriving at your colony, let me solicit from you such good offices as you deem likely to be acceptable. This kindness I shall willingly reciprocate on returning to my avocations at Calcutta, which I propose doing DV. In September next. All the accounts I have heard of you since we met concur in this that you have been enjoying the smiles of Fortune: I too have had no great reason to repine at my lot – but on this head I refer you to Grant with
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With every good wish for you my old & respected Friend. I am My Dear McArthur
Yours very truly
Adam Freer Smith
To James McArthur Esquire
Parramatta
Near Sydney
[Page 315]
James McArthur Esquire
Parramatta
Near Sydney
N.S.W
Adam Smith
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303 G.W. Norman to James Macarthur 18.12. 45
Dear Jas Macarthur
It is a long time since I wrote to you, but still longer since I heard from you – however I will wait no longer but at once employ half an hour in your service.
I should be delighted to learn from your own pen, that all your troubles & difficulties are over – but as it is, am compelled to be contented with long epistles written in excellent spirits by the Colonel, & added to that general reports that Australian affairs are improving – Captn Hamilton told me the other day, that his investments altho’ made at an impropitious moment, were now paying him nearly 15% - For this result he gave me figures-
Sibella may have told Emily, that
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poor Mr Stone’s heirs will inherit little from him – As my expectations have long been small, I have not been disappointed – My earnest desire is to see Harriet placed in a comfortable position. Her income will be made up at the India House to £100 – [indecipherable] & Mary promise her a house – Should circumstances occur (you know probably to what I allude), which will render a residence with her elder sister less agreeable than at present, our house shall always be open to her. Yet we are so full, I think we can hardly make her as comfortable as we could wish – at any rate, her position must be one of dependence for which poor thing, I pity her. She is a very good girl – I wrote last Septr to Henry, & hope that I may have prevented him from coming home, unless his health should render such a step necessary –
I suppose that Emily hears all about
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our children – I will only therefore say that as yet they have given me much pleasure & little pain.- School bills however begin to be inconvenient, & this inconvenience will increase. The end will be that we must [indecipherable] Bromley, or alter our style of living there.
The thought of establishing a boy in Australia has sometimes crossed my mind – Tell me what you think of the project, & what sort of education I should give him.
We are now in the midst of the Ministerial crises, & nobody can devine what is to be the result – I do not see how the Whigs are to govern, yet they can hardly refuse office, without giving up their position as one of the great Parties in the state – At any rate, you will get rid of Stanley, & rejoice at it – He was instantly a bad specimen of a Colonial Minister – Still I believe it to be impossible to govern Colonies well
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The difficulties are insuperable. It is a question between bad & worse – In 2 or 3 generations you will set up for yourselves & become a Democracy on the American model. I have thought sometimes over the possibility of placing you in the position of choosing a monarchical govt should you prefer it but cannot see my way.
Give my kind love to Emily & to my niece. Ever yours
Geo W Norman
Bank of Engld
18th Decr 1845
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New So Wales
May 19 1846
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307
Capt J. A. Macarthur to Jas Macarthur
(Major-Gen. Royal Marines)
Victoria January 16th 1846
My dear James
I can only regret that my time will not admit of doing more than hastily to enclose the two Bills – First and Second of Exchange – These to come by first opportunity, but it is not possible to say when – date this day of April 1845. Amount £94 – 6 – 4 – on the Accountant Genl of the Navy – made payable to your order – Next be kind enough to say what I can do to make up the remainder of your generous loan – On reconsideration I deemed it best to act thus as I am
To James McArthur Esq
Camden
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only by delay doing mischief and I hope you will approve of this method as far as it goes. Atv the same time allow me to assure you that I retain a lively sense of your affection and kindness, I have no offer to make but my assurance of gratitude and my hearts desire that our Heavenly Father may bless you in all things.
I am going on pretty well Dr Leichhardt having been an inmate with me for a month will give you more particulars than I can do – I shall really feel his loss - never having met with a more intelligent, and amiable man – I suppose his return after so doubtful an absence will create great sensation among you – I consider he made a bad choice of companions – Men who occur to have been influenced more by
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desperate futures than any taste for such pursuits as their enthusiastic leader follows – and I fear they did not conduct themselves so obediently as they ought to have done and I am only surprised on hearing their narrative that one is left to tell it.
A few , if it may be ever so few lines from you my dear Cousin would be as a cheering cordial to me – you can form no idea of the solitariness of a place when there is so much difficulty in effecting anything like a regular correspondence – I do not hear from home more than once in eighteen months – I greatly rejoice to hear that affairs are so improving in the Colony – but it is a natural result of such storms and where there are any internal resources at all then actions and reactions are a consequent
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upon the principles of speculations carried out by men who, are too [indecipherable] or too avaricious – The history of Sydney furnishes value curious exposures of men and manners.
I hope and trust your Family Circle has entered another year in joy and gladness of heart – my fervent desire and prayer is that you may call do do . I must now beg you to present my best and affectionate regards to my dear and amenable aunt – to my fair Cousin to William (I am resolving on troubling him hereafter at Dr Leichhardts accommodation) and believe me your grateful and affectionate cousin
John McArthur
Very, very late – bad sight – bad pens – bad paper-
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311
Davidson to James Macarthur 27.1.1846
St. James’s St. London
27th January. 1846
My dear Macarthur,
Not having heard from you since your letter dated the 25th April last year, I naturally conclude that the Gentlemen on your side, have thought better of it, and discovered that I am entitled to receive money, instead of having more to pay, on account of my late unfortunate Carleroy concerns – The enclosed printed paper will make you fully acquainted with the present state of the matter here up to the 31st Ulto since which date, no communication has been made to my Solicitors in Lincoln’s Inn – I hope you attended to my particular request of giving my old friend Richard Jones a perusal of the printed Papers – Extraordinary to say, he has not written me one line, which I cannot but wonder at, after he had seen how much and strenuously I have upheld his character, and stood up for his integrity, upon all occasions - not alone disregarding, but despising and contradicting every attempt made to prejudice me against him, from the very beginning to the present moment – you will oblige me by letting our Friend know that such has been my sincere feeling and steady course from, first to last, without any
[on top of page]
dear & excellent Mother’s own well-known hand – for it always gratifies me to see [indecipherable] bringing to my recollection [indecipherable] and pleasing seen in [indecipherable] conducted with her & your father – in light & happy days of yore. The letter came to Liverpool (or rather, was brought) pr Ship Avendale & bears the Sydney Post mark of the 20th September
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any exceptions whatever – which he will have seen fully confirmed in reading the printed Papers; - I am now enabled to give you ample information respecting Jonathon Wheeler’s affair – Mr Beaufoy sent a Mr Bolton to me, and was very obliging in the matter – I have lately been put into personal communication with Mr. Joseph Smith, of No. 8 Royal St. Hill St. Walworth, who is the chief and acting Executor of the deceased Brother – A Mr Blake also of Walworth, is the other – Mr Smith has had correspondence with the Family in Gloucestershire – and in addition to the sum of £3 "-"3d claimed by a Mrs Hook and alluded to in your letter as a recognised debt of between £3 and £4 – the Brother at Stroud write to Mr Smith that Johnathan has authorised him to claim £6 more for Esther your Tennant’s Daughter, of which payment no mention whatever is made in your letter to me – Consequently, Mr Smith has determined to let the money remain in the Saving’s Bank. Where it now is, until I can hear from you again, in Oct: or Nov: next, and then the settlement of the account will be a simple matter, as Mr Smith appears a very reasonable man, and anxious to act quite correctly – Johnathon Wheeler must therefore address Messrs Smith & Blake the Executors of his late Brother, and direct what payments he wishes made out of the money, and distinctly to whom they are to be made, instructing the Executors to make them
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them, and then to pay the remaining Balance over to me, upon a simple letter of release, wherein I will recite the whole account; & after that I will remit the money in any way directed – or otherwise, in the most advantageous manner I can devise at the time –
The amount now in the Saving’s Bank, together with interest accrued, there on, is between Thirty and Thirty one Pounds – Respecting the Books, Mr. Smith gave his decided opinion that their value does not exceed a Guinea, and having already been sent to the Brother at Stroud, he considers that their being transmitted to New S. Wales would entail a loss, even if conveyed in the most economical possible mode – Should Johnathon Wheeler authorise Mr. Smith to pay the £6 in addition to the £3 "3d there will remain but about £22. To be remitted – I hope I shall have made myself understood.
Ever yrs
W.S. Davidson
P.S. Sat 31 Jany 1846
After this letter was written, Mr Smith called upon me, and stated that the Brother in Gloucestershire had sent him the letter of Johnathon Wheeler which so clearly proved his desire to pay the £6 as well as the £3"3d that he & Mr Blake intend to
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to do so, and settle the Account, within the next 3 weeks, so that I hope to receive the Balance, and transmit it to you, by the packet of the 8th February. You had better prepare your Tenant for a small sum however as Mr Smith stated that there were several little deductions to be made, for charges incurred since the death of the Testator – It will be satisfactory to you to have this trifling affair finally closed, and I therefore not alone fell in with, but encouraged Mr Smith to come to his present determination
WSD
2nd P.S. Saty Aft: 31 Jany 1846
We have just recd from Liverpool a letter for yr Brother Edward which I forwarded immedty to Sligo - & I enclose one recd from him this day – I delight to see the letter just recd to be in your
To James Macarthur Esq
Camden
New South Wales
For Packet of 31 Jany 1846
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315
Horn E. K.
Kilmore 28th March 1846
James Macarthur Esq
Sir,
I have deferred writing to thank you for the kindness, which I have reason to believe you interested yourself for me with my present employers until I should have it in my power to say I had in some measure merited the opinion you were pleased to express in my favour and am now happy to say that although the Estate of Kilmore is not a profitable speculation the proprietors have been pleased to say that I have done all that could be anticipated the first year and express a wish to engage my services for another.
I have merely alluded to this subject as shewing myself grateful in the present instance and am now happy in having it in my power to turn to another and to me a very pleasing subject.
For many years past I have imagined that a much more simple and accurate method of determining the longitude at sea than any hitherto in practice might be arrived at and since my sojourn here have had time and opportunity to put my ideas in practice and am happy to
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say have so far succeeded as to send home a synopsis to the board of longitude and in the flattering hope it may be favourably received I beg most respectfully to present you with a copy requesting at the same time it may not be made public until its sentence has been passed by the board as I am quite ignorant how it may be turned to the best advantage. My letters enclosing the principle left for England in January last.
I have every hope also it may become of equal utility on shore particularly in situations where the advantage of an observatory are not procurable – The principle is extremely simple requiring only the correct latitude of the place and the correct and simultaneous altitude of the Moon with any other planet or star. The enclosed observation was made at this place under every disadvantage having no assistance and no other instruments than an old sextant cut to half a mile and a basin of water or a glass of oil, and with these humble materials out of sixteen observations the extremes did not vary 20 miles and am firmly of opinion that with good observers and good instruments the meridian may be determined with the greatest accuracy.
I am perhaps intruding myself upon your attention or trespassing upon your time but persuaded you will duly estimate the feeling with which I have troubled you.
I remain Sir
Most Respectfully Yours E K Horn
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314
P.S.
The only parties I have made acquainted with the System are Sir Thos Mitchell & Capt Sturt requesting their testimony to its accuracy or inaccuracy at the same time requesting them (if the thing has not been previously discovered; and I have no access to any recent discoveries, save my nautical almanac for the present year which makes no allusion to it) not to make the thing public –
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Missent from Gundagai to Ellerslie !! [indecipherable]
Pr Overland Mail post paid
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
Via Sydney
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319
[observations and calculations]
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Method for determining longitude by an altitude of the Moon with that of any other planet or a star
To the Right ascention of the meridian add or subtract (as the Moon is east or West of it the Moons distance from the meridian the sum or difference will be the Right ascention of the moon.
In the Nautical Almanac page V to XII the moons Right ascention at Greenwich is given for every hour to the hundredth part of a second, compute thereforenthe time when the moon has the same Right Ascention at Greenwich as at the place of observation the difference between which and the time at place of observation will be longitude in time.
N.B. As this system is dependent on the altitude or diurnal motion of the heavenly bodies (that is at the rate of 360 in 24 hours) I rest in the hope it will supercede the system of deducing the longitude from the observation of eclipses where the motion (as regards the moon) is only upon an average of say 130 in 24 hours.
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321 a
[Calculations]
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321 b
Sydney Twenty Sixth March 1846 Nr. Lithgow
James Macarthur Esq
[indecipherable]
Camden
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322
Sydney 15 April 1846
Dear Sir or Madam: About two years ago I offered to pay in goods the balance due on my acceptance of my brothers draft for £539 in your favour dated May 1835. As you did not avail yourself of that offer, I am induced to hope that you are disposed to revive your claim to any further payments, and with a view to a definite understanding on the subject I enclose a statement informing you what payments have been made and shewing that at the present rate of interest six per cent per annum the debt has been already satisfied.
The payments were always made by checks of Tingcombe & Walkins placed to your credit at the Bank of Australia but we hold no acknowledgements from you for any of them, and as I understood some time ago that the bill was mislaid, as payment can have been marked off on the back of it.
As the matter stands at present, it is in a most unsatisfactory state, and I am induced to
(Answered 17th April 1846 that we consider this Bill satisfied . J.M.)
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hope that considering the heavy losses which my brothers have sustained and the large sum which has been already paid £720. 1. – you will extend the same liberality to us which I understand you have observed towards the purchasers of land at Pyrmont
I remain
faithfully yours
John Tingcombe
[indecipherable] James & William Macarthur
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324
[List of transactions relating to Tingcombe’s Bill]
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325
messers J W & G Tingcombe 17th April
Release
Messers James & Willm Macarthur
Camden
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326
Edward Hamilton to Jas Macarthur
Collaroy Octr 27 1846
My dear Macarthur
Your note of the 23rd reached me to-day, &am; I hasten to thank you for the kind object of it, as well as for the opportunity which it offers of renewing our intercourse which has been long interrupted. I am not very anxious to sell young ewes at present but as I can breed faster than I can coin money I should not refuse a good offer by which I mean 9/ a head for good sheep. My sheep are you must know not nearly so fine as they used to be as I have attended more to the weight of fleeces than to the quality – but for strength of constitution and tendency to fatten I believe there are no sheep in the Colony superior to them. You will let me know whether these terms suit the person with whom you are in communication.
I was very much inclined to write to you a few weeks back when I heard of poor Bowmans death. He had been my guest with Thompson for a few days in the autumn - & he then was so hearty & well that the event quite shocked me -. But I have since heard that to a medical eye his appearance denoted great risk of sudden death – I hear that Edward is to carry on the Estate – Is that so? – If I could speak to him strong enough for the task I should not regret the arrangement – but he has always appeared to me a most delicate plant. Your account of the desolation of the last winter quite agrees with
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own experience of it. Not that we suffered materially – ample space secured me from starvation – but my flocks have never been in such low condition. The country is now as green as old England - & on Liverpool plains where there is always either a feast or a famine the grass is too luxuriant for pasture – 2 or 3 feet high – That is unquestionably the finest country I ever saw – both to the painter and the flock master - & I never visit my own [indecipherable] without being struck with the magnificent scale on which nature has exhibited her works – the extensive plains & the magnificent mountain all get produce a very striking scene – What part do you intend to take about the renewal of transportation - It is to important to our pecuniary interest that I hesitate to trust my own judgement witch inclines favourably towards it – The real difficulty to my mind is the baseful effect of a constant stream of convicts on the middle classes -. Well at there is no fear of intermix here – but with those who tho not less respectable are a grade lower on the social scale the case is very different, & I feel that we are entailing upon them a curse which will never die -. On the other hand if we give way to their moral objections we condemn the colony to death -. It cannot advance without labor, & it is idle to suppose that a loan fund can be raised to support it -. You may surround the question with as many pretty artifices as you please, the result will always remain the same – that an acre of land in this country is worth next to nothing -. But you may stamp a value upon it by attaching to it bond labor-. I should like to talk the matter over with you – at present I know not how to decide -. From the repost of the anti-transportation meeting I fear that the strengths of argument lies with the opposite side for a greater mess of twaddle I never read – But
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328
contemptible as their reasoning is, it is less offensive to me than the unblushing fecklessness of the leaders of the other side who have no one thought but the recovery of their own shattered fortunes -. The effrontery of Bland coming forward in the matter exceeds everything I ever heard -. What do you think of Peel & his free trade policy?. I hear that there is no chance of his retaining his position -. That we shall lose the only good Colonial Minister we have had -. Nothing can be more gratifying than the tone of Gladstones dispatches -. My cousin Clive writes cheeringly about the prospect of the wool market - & I fully anticipate a maintenance of last years prices – I hope it maybe so. How is your nursery thriving? Only one female I believe -. I have one already & the prospect of an addition in March -. My nature rebels against these [indecipherable] blessings – but gradually gives way - & I soon shall be unbachelorized completely – We are going down to Sydney in December – My visit will be very short as I must be off to the Richmonds early in January – But Mrs Hamilton will stay over her confinement in March – I should very much like to take her for a few days to Camden if you and Mrs James Macarthur would welcome her – I should not bring my little one with me -. This offer is made in the full confidence of your friendly feeling towards us, and perhaps you will appreciate it for its frankness rather than condemn it as a liberty -. Some time towards the end of December would suit me better.
With our kind regards to Mrs James Macarthur & William I am
Yrs very Sincerely
Edwd Hamilton
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Van Diemens Land was to be offered to William Denison – Captain in the engineers – Gladstone is providing for many of my old schoolfellows & friends – Doyle has got the customs - & Frederick Rogers one of the cleverest men I know is [indecipherable] assistant under secretary
James Macarthur Esq
Camden
Answered 3rd Nov
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330
Customs,
Morton Bay, 21 Nov. 1846
My dear Sir,
Finding that the duties of this Port allow me some leisure hours, I have determined to devote them to a work od some extent, which I purpose to call "The Annals of Australia, from its discovery by Europeans, to the end of the Administration of Sir George Gipps." It will be rather a chronological digest of well authenticated facts, one which future historians may rely
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with some degree of confidence, than a history in the accepted sense of the term, for which our country does not yet afford sufficiently important materials, though perhaps as interesting for the period it has existed as any of which we have records.
Now it has occurred to me that you must possess many papers and documents which would throw considerable light on what may be termed the medieval darkness of this period. Collins & Hunter are excellent guides for the foundation of the colony, and printed papers of all kinds are abundant for
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332
the last ten years or more; I do not know yet what the Colonial Secretary’s Office may furnish with respect to the intermediate years, but as far as printed books go, it appears to be all a blank. Should you have any papers by you of the description required to fill up this blank, either printed or in manuscript, might I ask you to entrust them to me for a short time for this purpose? I hope I need not assure you that care would be taken, and discreet use made of them although it might, of course, happen that my view of some facts contained in them might
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differ in some degree from yours. My object, however, is not so much to give opinions as facts, and having no interest or connexion whatever to uphold, I think I shall be able to state facts with a candour that must command some degree of approbation from all sides, without seeking it particularly from any.
Believe me
Dear Sir,
Yours faithfully
W.A. Duncan
James Macarthur Esqr. J.P
Camden
P.S. Do you know who is the writer of a history of New South Wales, published anonymously by Hatchlow (2nd Edit. 8 00.) in 1818? It is dedicated to Henry Alexander Esq.
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334
Collaroy Nov. 24, 1846
My dear Macarthur
If your plasterer is different from all other tradesmen & finishes his work within the two weeks I will certainly go to Camden but if he takes 2 months to finish your ceilings as I expect be assured that I shall always value the very cordial acceptance of my offer to pay you a visit. I must start for the Richmond the beginning of January so that the latest day I can hope for going to you is Xmas day. You may tell your plasterer that I will give him a bottle of grog if he will allow me to carry out my wish and intention. Annie is very anxious to be acquainted with Mrs James Macarthur & I am sure that you will receive her with all the kindness that I have led her to anticipate – Confound the wool sales my prices are 4d per lb. lower than in 1845 & labor is rising fast. What are we to do. The Thomas Lowry has brought me many letters among them a long one from H [indecipherable] who gives but a
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very so so account of himself. I have never entertained the least hope of ultimate recovery – The third brother William at: 38 is the new Govr of Van Diemens Land – He has long had the control of the [indecipherable] Department at Woolwich and Portsmouth & u will know him a man of considerable abilities. It is a great [indecipherable] for him
Extraordinary account of the fortunes of some of the young lawyers are realizing in the Railroad Line. James Hope brother of the Ex Under Secretary for the Colonies a contemporary and friend of mine – made £5000 last qur and will make £15000 this quarter & Stephen Deailon made £25000 last year and double it this year. Who would wish to be a governor under Such circumstances? - & as a climax I may say who would be a settler? – I am in a need of a head overseer you - will perhaps see the advertisement in the papers with directions to apply to me at Thaekin – should you hear of a really efficient man who does not weigh more than 10½ stone who is an early riser, honest, good humoured & firm, will you let me know. The salary will be good.
Yrs most truly
GW Hamilton
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336
Ld Clarendon is only known as Mr. Villiers, Lord Palmerston’s Ambassador at Madrid all thro’ the Carlos civil wars – Have you heard the scandal about the deacon of Salisbury? An old man of 70 who was in the habit of inserting love letters in the prayer book of one of the charity girls – he has been obliged to resign
GWN
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James Macarthur
Camden
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[Blank]
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[Cover]
[Transcribed by Bob Williams for the State Library of New South Wales]