Elizabeth Macarthur journal and correspondence, 1789-1840
A 2906 (Safe 1 / 398)

[Transcriber’s note: Some line or paragraph breaks inserted to improve readability. Letters that are written and then crossed at 90° are generally transcribed in full on the first image page for ease of following the narrative with additional paragraph breaks to indicate a new page. Pages 536 to 625 are typed copies of some of the earlier handwritten letters, mostly letters that were written and then crossed at 90°.]

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My beloved Mother’s Journal & 1st. letter after her arrival in the Colony
1789

[Pencil notation in a different hand:]
Probably Edward Macarthur’s writing.
W. J. L. [?]

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[Pencil note at top of page:]
In Mrs John McArthur’s hand writing

No. 1.

Friday the 13th Novr. 1789. I took leave of my friends in London and accompanied by Mr. McArthur, hired a Gravesend Boat from Billingsgate, which conveyed us to the Neptune at Long reach. Saturday 14th. the Ship drop’d down to Gravesend at which place we lay till the Tuesday following & then sailed for the Downs, where we arrived on the Thursday.

We remained in the Downs Friday, & some part of Saturday and I was much struck with the formidable & romantick appearance of the Cliffs of Deal & of Dover – On this day Saturday a disagreeable circumstance occurred. Mr. Gilbert Master of the Ship of whom indeed we heard but an indifferent character took an opportunity of manifesting himself to us in such a light as precluded all further communication between him & Mr. McArthur. In the afternoon of this day we proceeded down the channel with a fine wind & at different times had in sight several Vessels. On Monday the 23d after laying too all night – supposing the ship to be near Plymouth – our astonishment was very great on discovering that we were so far west as the Lizard Point – I could not help viewing the coast of Cornwal inhospitable as it appeared but with sensible regret at the thought, that I was about to take a long leave of it. We had here a distant prospect of St. Michaels

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No 2

Mount, but not near enough to form any Idea of the Grandeur of its appearance, when taken in a better view.

The wind not being favorable towards our return, it was not till Friday 27th in the morning that we found ourselves safely anchored in Plymouth Sound. Here I must pay a tribute to dear Devon, I have ever heard admired. The agreeable variety of objects in general to be discovered through out this County, but surely the entrance of Plymth. by Sea must surpass every other, and I think there cannot be a beholder but what must be delighted in contemplating the variety of beautiful scenes, that on every side surround him

In the afternoon of the day that we arrived at Plymouth Mr. Harris, our Surgeon, & Mr. McArthur went ashore, at their return, which was early in the Evening I gather’d from some distant hints that a duel had taken place between Mr. Gilbert & Mr. McArthur, to describe my feelings on the occasion would now be a difficult task, though they were by no means so acute, as reflection hath since rendered them – many disagreeable circumstances then pressing on my mind suffered not one principle to actuate me wholly

I therefore did not so seriously consider, which I now think of with trembling the unhappy consequences that might have arisen from so presumptuous a meeting. nor can I be

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No. 3

sufficiently thankful to the Almighty disposer of Events – that a more lasting cause does not oblige me to consider it with horror.

On Sunday 29th Novr. accompanied by Capn. M. Moriarty I took a Post chaise & reached Launceston that night – & the next morning about eleven o’clock arrived at my Mother’s, My time was so limited by Mr. Gilbert’s report of the Ships sailing, that I could only allow myself two nights at Bridgerule

Wednesday morning I was obliged to take leave of it – & return to Plymth., where I arrived between 9 & 10 o’clock at night not much enlivened by the short interview I had, had with my friends, & considerably depressed with the Idea of parting with my only surviving Parent, perhaps, forever. I found Mr. McArthur at Plymth. waiting to take me on Board. & late as it was we were under the necessity of going, as an official message had been sent by Mr. Gilbert to inform the Officers that the Ship wd. sail at 3 o’clock in the morning – it was afterwards known, that he had not the slightest intention of going – & of course could have no view in asserting what he did, but that of harrassing us – Capn. Nepean went off to the Ship in the same Boat with us – we had no sooner arrived on board than a compleat scene of uproar & confusion presented itself. Capn Gilbert had insulted a Centinel in his Post & struck him. The soldier shewed

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No 4.

a disposition to defend himself, & make Mr. Gilbert suffer for his impudence. This led to a great bustle, & the Ships Arms were taken out Loaded & arranged in the stern gallery Three Naval Lieutenants in possession of the Cabin, with Blunderbusses laying on the Table – in this order we found things on board; and Mr. Gilbert had thought fit to take himself quietly on Shore instead of preparing for sea.

Capn. Nepean dispatched Mr. Harris immediately to London – with an account of these riotous proceedings to his Brother – and about three o’clock in the morning I retired to rest after the variety of fatigues & alarms of the preceding day. We did not leave Plymouth until Thursday the 10th of Decr. from whence we proceeded to Portsmouth & anchored in Stoke’s Bay Sunday 13th we there found the Scarborough & Surprize, two Transports that were to accompany us, ready for Sea. Soon after our arrival here, we learnt that Mr. Gilberts conduct had displeased the owners of the Ship - & the truth was soon assured, by a Mr. Trail being appointed in his room – heartily glad was I when he made his exit – & we congratulated ourselves with the thought that such another troublesome man could not be found – & consequently our change must be for the better

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No 5.

experience however soon taught us a very disagreeable truth. Mr. Trails character was of a much blacker dye, than was ever in Mr. Gilberts nature to exhibit. every thing was now disposed in order for Sea & we only waited for a fair wind

Capn. Hill Mr. Prentice & Mr. Harris was in the Surprize Mr. Townson & Mr. Abbott in the Scarborough – & in the Neptune Capn. Nepean Mr. McArthur &c. Mrs. Trail was on board with her husband, & Mr Shapcote the agent for the fleet, was also in our Ship – but as they all lived together & Capn. Nepean with them – we seldom benefited by their society.

The Wind continuing to blow westerly an attempt towards sailing was not made until Tuesday the 5th of Jany; we then had a few hours fair wind, which just took us to Spithead, where we were again obliged to anchor. Friday the 8th we again loosened “every sail to the Breeze" & proceeded to Sea. towards night the wind began to prove faithless, & before the next morning blew directly against us so as totally to impede our course

the next day (Sunday) & night we continued to beat about, hoping that a favorable change would take place but on Monday morning appearances were so extremely hazardous, that prudence dictated the shortest way back

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No. 6.

again, & our head was once more turned towards that Shore we had so recently quitted with an Idea of not seeing it again for some years to come: we passed thro’ the Needles and anchored at the Mother Bank, on Tuesday about Noon. The Evening & succeeding day was so dreadfully tempestous, that we had great reason to be thankful at our being safely in harbour.

We remained at the Mother Bank until Sunday the 17th of Jany. when a fine clear easterly wind springing up, we soon got under sail & proceeded down the Channel with very fine weather – on Wednesday being near the Bay of Biscay, the wind shifted to the South & it began to be very tempestous, that night and the succeeding day it blew exceedingly hard, and now for the first time I began to be a coward. I could not be persuaded that the Ship could possibly long resist the violence of the Sea which was monstrous high. On Thursday towards Evening the wind considerably abated & the next morning it was a perfect calm, but the Sea continued greatly agitated by a swell.

On the 25th of Jany. we were again favor’d with a fair wind & a small vessel was seen at a distance with french colours. About this time my poor little Boy was taken very ill & continued in a most pitiable weak State during our passage to the Cape, added to this, my Servant was attack’d with a Fever, that reigned among the Women Convicts; and I had hourly every reason to expect that the infection would be

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No. 7

communicated to us, as our apartments were so immediately connected with those of the women. We were however fortunate enough to escape from this evil.

I have omitted to observe that when Capn. Nepean accepted of accommodations in the upper Cabin, he thought himself at liberty, to dispose of the part allotted to him in the great Cabin, as best suited his inclinations, adopting the truly generous maxim “every man for himself – &c &c. In consequence of this Idea, & a request from the owners of the Ship, he gave permission for one half the cabin to be partitioned off, for the reception of female convicts, leaving the other half to us. Mr. McArthur who saw the inconveniences that would arise from this arrangement, strove by every means to prevent it, he pointed out to Capn. Nepean, “That Government had contracted for a Cabin for the mutual benefit of the officers ordered to sail in that Ship, and that there was no particular allotment for any officer": That therefore if he had the means of obtaining better accommodations" and had no use for those prepared him by Government It was highly indelicate, if not unjust to think of introducing a set of people to the possession of what was prepared for him: and to the participation of what was assigned to us. But in this instance, as in many others, Reason unassisted by power, proved unavailing. A slight

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No 8

Partition was erected which was thought fully sufficient to separate us from the set of abandoned creatures that were to inhabit the other part: and the only satisfaction or concession that Mr. McArthur could obtain for this cruel encroachment upon our rights; was a promise, & assurance, that a passage which from our Quarter gallery communicated with the upper Cabin, should always be open for our use, and even for our Servant.

This assurance, trifling as it may appear, was to us an inestimable advantage, as the division in the Cabin had rendered the common passage to the deck, totally dark; and added to this, it was always filled with Convicts, & their constant attendants, filth & Vermin. The altercations and little disputes, that the concluding of this business occasion created a coldness between Capn. Nepean, the Master of the Ship & Mr. McArthur; and at last terminated in a cessation of every kind of intercourse, except on duty with the one, or on business with the other. Thus unhappily situated, we determined patiently to submit, to the unpleasantries we could not remedy, and cheered ourselves with hope of a speedy Voyage, not doubting but that things were at the worst: In this conclusion however experience proved, we had vainly flattered ourselves.

Many of the Soldiers frequently complained, that a part

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No 9

part of their Ration was purloined, and as often as they did, Mr. M. consider’d it his duty to report it to Capn. Nepean: the first time Capn. N. replied “Trail does every thing to oblige me, and I must give up some points to him". Subsequent informations on the same subject were answered. “I will see into it". It would be an injustice to Capn. Nepean to suppose that he did not mention it, as there is every reason to conclude he did, from the monstrous and unprovoked insults that always ensued.

I had made it a practice every fine Evening to go up thro’ our quarter Gallery to the Stern Gallery, to walk or sit with Mr. M – and I also took the same road when ever my inclinations led me to the Deck – the common passage as I have before observed being render’d impassable – but of these enjoyments I was suddenly depriv’d by the door of the Gallery being closely nailed up on Sunday the 30th of Jany. without their deigning to assign any reason for so doing – we have since been told it was to prevent Mr. M. from listening: a suggestion infamous & unfounded as it was, I shall ever be persuaded originated in the person, who of all others in the Ship, ought to have been most forward in suppressing it. Mr. McArthur immediately wrote an official letter to the Agent, complaining in the strongest language, of the injustice of this transaction. In answer to which, he was told verbally (a written answer being refused) “That he should not quarrel

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with Trail, for any man". Capn. Nepean also said, “that the Master of the Ship, had a right to do as he pleased".

Without a hope of relief, I was fain to content myself within the narrow limits, of a wretched Cabin, for to add to the horrors of the common passage to the deck; Capn. N. order’d it to be made a hospital for the Sick, the consequence of which was, that I never left my Cabin, till I finally quitted the Ship. Thus precluded from the general advantages that even the Convicts enjoy’d – air & exercise – no language can express, no imagination conceive, the misery I experienced – approaching near the Equator (where the heat in the best of situations, is almost insupportable) assailed with noisome stenches – that even in the cold on an English Winter hourly effusions of Oil of Tar in my Cabin could not dispel: two sides of it surrounded with wretches whose dreadful imprecations and shocking discourses, ever rang in my distracted ears: a Sickly infant claiming constant Maternal cares: my spirits failing: my health forsaking me nothing but the speedy change which took place could have prevented me from falling a helpless Victim, to the unheard of inhumanity of a set of Monsters whose triumph & pleasure seemed to consist in aggravating my distresses. To a person unacquainted with the innumerable insults, & cruelties I was necessitated to bear with; this may appear the language

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of passion – resentment – or of heart desiring revenge: But it will be admitted to be the conclusions of Truth, & of Justice when it is known, in addition to the wrongs have already recited, that we were deprived of a part of our little Ration, & insultingly told, we should have less, if they thought proper; that a constant watch was set over our Servant when getting our daily allowance of water, lest the Sea-man who had the serving of it (knowing our situation) should be induced by motives of humanity, to make some small addition to the scanty pittance: and once (so low were we reduced by the connivance of the only person we could look to for support) that the Servant was publickly stopped on the deck, with execrations, & abuse, and the water examined; altho at this time they were expending fifty gallons a day for their stock, and an unlimited quantity for their own uses and our whole allowance for every purpose only five quarts.

But to conclude as ungrateful a subject as ever exercised the patience or wounded the feelings of humanity – I will proceed to the last adventure we were concern’d in, in this detested Ship – Mr. M. when his duty called him to visit the Soldiers, always crept through the only passage now left us, often endangering a limb by tumbling over Boxes & other lumber that this place was made the repository of: and frequently contracting heaps of the Vermin with which it was infested

The immediate cause of our leaving the Neptune is now to explain – On the 10th of Feby. Mr. M had just come on deck

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when the Serjeant complain’d to him of an attempt made to cheat him of several pounds of the mans allowance of meat which he had scarcely heard when the Chief Mate of the Ship (who was close by) exclaim’d he was a D– rascal – Mr. M roused at this insult offer’d to the man, told the mate, with some severity, that the Serjt. Would do well to punish him for his insolence: In return Mr M. received every kind of abuse that can be supposed to flow from ignorance & brutality – angered to an extreme degree but unable to redress himself. Mr. M. sent for Capn. Nepean and related the whole affair: when strange to tell, he was highly censured for interfering in the business & told by Capn. N – “that he was sufficient to redress any wrongs offered to the men without the assistance of any one" – This fresh insult, the knowledge of what we were hourly suffering & the contemplation of what we had to expect in future, determined Mr. M. to apply for a remove on board the Scarborough. The request was gladly complied with by Capn. Nepean happy to get rid of a person he thought a troublesome examiner of the iniquitous practices of the people he considered his Friends

on the 19th of Feby a favourable day presented itself. & & we removed with all our little baggage, rejoiced at an escape from tyranny, insult, & every species of oppression.

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No. 10

We were in the Latitude of six degrees North, when our remove took place and it being quite a calm day, Edward, & I, suffered greatly from the heat, but this was an inconvenience I thought lightly of – after what I had been taught to bear. In the Scarborough we shared a small Cabin with Mr. Abbott. Marshall, the Master of the Ship was a plain, honest man, and disposed to make things as comfortable to me, as was in his power. On the 22d we passed a French guinea man, bound to Martinico with Slaves. We cross’d the Line on the 25th with a light wind and on the 14th of April, after experiencing a severe gale of wind, anchored safely in False Bay. False Bay is about twenty miles distant from the Cape Town, at the head of the Bay there is a small Town which has a pleasing appearance: The Houses are all uniformly white-washed on the outside, & the Doors & windows painted green.

The inhabitants are all such as make a practice of preying on the Shipping: not excepting the Governour himself, who scruples not, to supply the wants of any, at the moderate profit of about five hundred pr. cent. The manners of the people if I may be allowed to Judge, from what I saw, are as unfriendly, and Rude as the appearance of their Coast: The Country which presents itself to the Sea is extremely mountainous. You see nothing but massy Rocks, & tremendous precipices:

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Within them however the Soil is fruitful and well repays the labour of the husband-man. I one day took a walk, to what is called the Companies Garden, a piece of ground totally [appropriated] to the use of the Dutch East India company, & stored with vegetables. It is situated about a mile and half from the Town, the intermediate space is uncultivated & presents Africa in its Native dress, every shrub, & flower I saw, being new, was interesting; whether my admiration was created by Novelty, or the effect of a long Voyage, I cannot determine but I thought at the time, I had never in England, seen so charming an assemblage from the most laboured production of art.

I forgot to mention that in our Voyage from Portsmouth to the Cape. Mr Prentice was put in arrest by Capn. Hill. At False Bay Capn. Hill was put in arrest by Capn. Nepean.

A few days before we quitted False Bay Mr. McArthur was attack’d with a violent, & very alarming Fever; it continued to rage till every sense was lost, & every faculty but life destroyed, and my little Boy at that time was so very ill, that I could scarcely expect him to survive a day.

Alone. Unfriended – & in such a situation – what do I not owe to a merciful God for granting me support, & assistance

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[This page is torn, and parts of the text appear to be missing. Gaps are indicated by ...]

in those severe moments of affliction. I was greatly indebted to the attention & kindness of a Capn. Reid who commanded an Imperial East India man, that then lay in the Bay with us he visited Mr. M. frequently, & supplied me with a few ... comforts, that afterwards were of the greatest service ...

I was also very much obliged to Capn. Marshall, for his ... behaviour, particularly on this occasion – and here I ... add, my obligations cease. I do not recollect ... officers, made me the slightest offer of a [assistance?] ... indebted to them, ever ...

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[This page is torn, and parts of the text appear to be missing. Gaps are indicated by ...]

after we sailed, but continued intermittant for a long time. For five weeks, I was obliged to have one, & sometimes two Soldiers sit up every night – and all the rest I took myself was ... laying my head on a Locker – till at length one of the ... gave me up his Cabin – Our passage to the South ... be truly called a tempestuous
one, we performed it ... [mon]ths, and it was not till this time; that Mr. M ... recovered to walk without assistance – It ... to feel the heavy hand of Sickness – The ... and anyone [indecipherable] produced an ...

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No. 3.

1st

This letter is not in my dearest Mother’s hand writing – it must be a Copy provided by some one in England. E. E. P.

Sydney port Jackson N: S: Wales
March the 7th 1791

At length we have a prospect of communication once more with our friends by Letter, the Gorgon so long wish’d for and so long expected is not yet arrived and by her unaccountable delay, has involved us all, in the most mysterious uncertainty, and clouded our minds with gloomy apprehensions for her safety. – I hope you will have my Letters dated Augst 1790; which I sent by the Scarborough Transport; by way of China. I wrote to my Mother by the same Ship and a second Letter to her, dated a few weeks after the first, I sent by the Neptune who sail’d, I think, sometime in Augst – by those Letters, I think, you will be inform’d of every material circumstance, relative to our Voyage, and of what happen’d to us after our arrival ’till the ship sail’d

I told you of the unfortunate loss of the Syrius [Sirius]; a King’s Ship that had been station’d here from the first settling the Colony. She was wreck’d on Norfolk Island – The ships Company who all escaped with life, but not altogether without hurt; remain’d on the Island and the Supply a small Brig, that sail’d from this place, with the Syrius, return’d with the news of her sad fate. The provisions of the Colony at that time being at very low Ebb, it was deem’d necessary to take some step lest supply might not arrive from England in time to prevent a threaten’d famine. every individual of this Colony, was reduced to a very short allowance; and the little Brig was dispatched to Batavia under the command of Lieut. Ball; there to take up a Dutch ship, and purchase a certain quantity of provisions for this place; with [which] it was to be freighted and dispatched hither with all possible

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expedition – a few Weeks after the Supply sail’d, the first ship (Lady Juliana) arrived, and brought an account of the loss of the Gaurdian [Guardian], occasion’s by falling in with Islands of Ice. This Ship arrived on the 3d of June, and came timely to prevent very
great distress. On the 21st of June the Justiana arrived, [a] Store Ship and on the 29th our fleet was safely anchored in the Cove, as all those ships were under contract to return by way of China to take home Tea for the East India company and there being at that time no Ship station’d here, no way was left to convy a relief to the Inhabitants of Norfolk Island but by ordering some of those ships to touch there in their way to China.

The Justiana and Surprize rec’d orders for that purpose; re embarked a certain proportion of provisions for the Island – we had every hope that the supplies might arrive in time to prevent any fatal consequences; yet as we could have no certainty of that ’till some ship should first arrive here that might be dispatch’d to know the particulars of their fate; our minds were never perfectly easy on their account, at that time, there was with the Syrius’s Company the Marines and Convicts near seven hundred persons on the Island, and I can truly say that for upwards of Six Months, I never pass’d a day without reflecting on them with pain and anxiety, Week after Week stole away; and Month after Month with little diversity, each succeeding Sunset produced among us, wild and vague conjectures, of what could be the cause of the Gorgons delay – and still we remain’d unsatisfied indeed, indeed all our Surmises have nearly worn themselves out and we are at a loss for new ones; time the great resolver

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of all events; alone can determine this seeming mystery to us – On the 20th of October a general cry prevail’d through the Garrison of the Flags being hoisted, (which is a signal of a Ships appearing off the Harbour) I was preparing myself to receive Mrs Gross and Mrs Paterson being fully persuaded it was the Gorgon; however I was soon undeceived, as it prov’d to be the Supply from Batavia; she had a very quick passage but had experienced a very sickly one. Mr Ball very soon call’d upon us, and complimented me with many little comforts procured at Batavia, which were truly acceptable. He brought us an account of a Ship, an English Man of War, answering very nearly the description of the Gorgon that had been spoken to somewhere about the Equator; and was bound for this port.

This intelligence was brought to the Cape of good Hope, and from thence to Batavia. If this was the Gorgon (which yet I hope not) I tremble to think what may have been her fate. The Dutch Ship laden with the provisions for the Colonies was not ready to sail when Mr Ball quited Batavia – She did not arrive till the 17th of december – In the dispatches of the Dutch Schelander to Govr Phillips [Governor of NSW, Arthur Phillip] is mention’d something of a Spanish War, having been declared against England in May 1790 –

The particulars are not well explain’d, or perhaps I should say not well understood, as the Letter is written in Dutch; and no one here understands enough of the Language to transcribe it correctly. This Dutch Ship is taken up by the Govr to go to England to convey home the officers and men of the Syrius – and acquaint the British Government with the present state of the Colony. She is order’d to sail the 20th of this month, but more of this by and bye – on the 21st of Janry the Supply was sent to [Nor]folk Island to bring hither the Syrius ships Company, and

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learn the State of affairs at that place, She return’d on the 25th of Febry with the officers, and men in health, and brought a good account of the health of every individual left behind

This circumstance removed some considerable anxiety from our minds; but it prov’d our fears had been but too well grounded, as when the Supply arriv’d, they had not more than ten days provisions in the Store, at a full allowance; and from the 14th of last May ’till the 18th of July, they were reduced to the sorry pittance of 3 lb of flour and 1 pd and ½ of Beef, for a Week.

At this time a most merciful relief came to their assistance it had been observed on a high Hill in the Island, (which they have named Mount Pitt) that many Sea Birds frequented it, an endeavor was made to take some of them; which was [successful], and by attending more particularly to the time of their appearances, and their favorite haunts, they were discover’d in the greatest abundance, it was the Season in which they laid their Eggs, and both Birds and Eggs were taken in such [incredible?] quantities as occasion’d the small allowance of meat they had issued before to be stopp’d – and however wonderful it may appear to you, yet true it is, that those Birds, for many Weeks, were the chief subsistance of Seven Hundred Men; and they were so easily taken, that after sunset it was impossible to walk on the Mount without treading on them, and sometimes towards Evening, they have been observed hovering in the air, in such innumerable flocks, as considerably to occlude the light from admiring Spectators. – but now the Melancholy truth of their visible decrease became more and more apparent. Their flights were directed to other quarters, and at length few remain’d – but before hope was

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2d 5

extinguished, a Ship appeared and brought them a long expected supply, believe me my Dr friend that in writing these faithful traits of the pitiable situation of the Inhabitants of Norfolk a Chill seems to overpower my faculties, my mind has so truly enter’d into their distresses that a dread comes over me, which I am unable to describe – but it is succeeded by so firm a reliance on the merciful dispensations of an Almighty, whose hand I think we may here trace without presumption; that I can only admire in silence.

As I have been on the subject of Norfolk Island I think I may as well finish with it at once, Norfolk Island is about 332 leagues East of Port Jackson [In English measure, 1 league was 3 miles or 4.83 km.] about six leagues in circumference; every access to it is dangerous being environ’d on one side with a reef of rocks, and on the other with steep perpendicular Cliffs. There is no place round the Island, where a ship can anchor with safety on account of a violent surf, which rises at times so suddenly, that a Spectator placed on the Shore at an Elevation of 10 or 12 feet, will yet have the horizon frequently excluded from his view, in the course of five minutes; in this surf it was that the Syrius was lost. The Soil is universally admitted to be capable of producing every thing that could be wish’d: it is rich even to Luxuriance, The Island has a most charming picturesque appearance from the drawings I have seen, and what I have heard corrisponds with it; the Pine trees, (which are design’d to furnish the British Navy in the East Indies with Masts) are very lofty and Majestic – some rising to 200 and others to 220 feet high upwards of an hundred feet clear of branches, and from 28 to 36 in circumference. There are various other

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trees fitted for domestic purposes; and some which add greatly to the beauty of a Landscape – such as the Fern the Cabbage, and Bannana, or Plantain; the two latter bearing a very pleasant fruit. the flax plant of which so much has been said, has not hitherto been of any essential Service; a few yards of Canvas has been manufactured, a specimen of which will now go to England by the Dutch ship. – The Birds of the Island, are but few, amongst the number are a very fine Pigeon, and a delicate little Dove; they are in general so tame, that they may be knock’d down with a stick; and sometimes caught by the hand. There is not a single quadruped on the Island, but a Bat and no venomous reptile whatever. The Climate has been found extremely healthy and I think in some instances, preferable to this; it lies some leagues nearer the Equator, but being a small Island, and at a considerable distance from any other track of Land, it is not in the Summer subject to such hot Winds, but on the contrary constantly refresh’d with a breeze from the Sea, and the Winter (if indeed it deserves that appellation) is not cold enough to make it necessary to sit by a fire, and a constant succession of vegetation is kept up throughout the year, They have seldom any Thunder or Lightning, what has been observed was always very distant, and of short duration – I have before remark’d upon the goodness of the Soil, notwithstanding which, there are some evils peculiar to it, which have rendered the Labours of the Cultivation in general ineffectual Those Evils are a blight a destructive grub, and a Caterpillar

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more pernicious than the other two. The Crops of Corn and Vegetables that have had the good fortune to escape these pests, have ripen’d and produced an increase beyond equal to the most sanguin wishes of the Cultivator – The last Season when in the midst of their distress they were cheering their hearts by contemplating the flourishing Cornfields the Caterpillers made their appearance, They were observed to come from the Hills, and in such quantities that every attempt to counteract their harmful influence prov’d ineffectual; they retreated not, ’till they had done so much mischief, that enough Corn did not ripen to Sow the Land this year – What is somewhat remarkable, the Caterpillers from the Cornfields direct their course to the Sea (in such abundance that the beach was cover’d with them) and then were seen no more.

Those are the accounts of Norfolk Island down to Febry last: and are what I have learnt from some of the Navy officers belonging to the Syrius. – The Supply is to be sent to Norfolk again in the course of a few days with three of our officers, and a party of Soldiers to relieve the same number of Marines, at Norfolk – a Captn Hill Lieut Abbot and a Mr Prentice are fix’d on for this purpose.

I shall begin my relation now of things more immediately occurring to Myself. it will be unnecessary to go over the Chit Chat of my last Letter; such as the state of our House the attentions we met with &c &c. We pass’d our time away many Weeks cheerfully if not gaily – gaily indeed it could not be said to be. – On my first landing every thing was new to me, every Bird, every Insect, Flower, &c in short all was Novelty around me. and was noticed with a degree

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of eager Curiosity, and perturbation; that after a while subsided into that calmness; I have already described. In my former Letter I gave you the character of Mr Dawes: and also of Captn Tench, those Gentlemen and a few others in the chief among whom we visit – indeed we are in that habit of intimacy with Captn Tench, that there are few days pass that we do not spend some part of them together – Mr Dawes we do not see so frequently He is so much engaged with the Stars, that to Mortal Eyes he is not always visible. I had the presumption to become his pupil, and meant to learn a little of astronomy it is true I have had many a pleasant Walk to his House, (something less than a half a Mile from Sydney) have given him much trouble in making (Orrerry’s) and in explaining to me the general principles of the heavenly bodies. but I soon found I had mistaken my abilities; and blush at my error – Still I wanted something, to fill up a certain vacancy in my time which could neither be done by writing reading, or conversation, to the two first I did not feel myself always inclined, and the latter was not in my power having no female friend to unbend my mind to, nor a single Woman with whom I could converse with any satisfaction to myself the Clergymans Wife being a person in whose society I could reap neither profit nor pleasure, These considerations made me still anxious to learn some easy Science to fill up the vacuum of many a Solitary day, and at length under the auspices of Mr Dawes: I have made a small progress in Botany, no Country can exhibit a more Copious field for [Botanical] knowledge, than this, I am arrived so far, as to be able to class;

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[39?]

and order; all common plants. I have found great pleasure in my study: every Walk furnish’d me with subjects to put in practice that Theory I had before gain’d by reading but Alas my botanical pursuits were most unwelcomely interrupted by Mr McArthurs being attack’d by a severe illness – In December he got better, and in January we were mov’d into a more convenient House –

I shall now introduce another acquaintance Mr Worgan, to you, a gentleman I have not hitherto named, he was surgeon to the Syrius, and happen’d to be left at this place: when that Ship met with her fate at Norfolk. It is not improbable this Gentleman may himself deliver this Letter to you he is well known to Doctor Cudlipp. I assure you in losing him a very considerable branch of our society will be lopp’d off – I shall now tell you of another resource I had to fill up some of my vacant hours, our New House is ornamented with a piano-forte of Mr Worgans, he kindly means to leave it with me, and now under his direction I have begun a new study, but I fear without my Master shall not make any great proficiency, I am told however I have done wonders – in being able to play off God save the King and Foots [Foote’s] Minuet besides that of reading the notes with great facility, in spite of Musick I have not altogether lost sight of my Botanical studies; I have only been precluded from pursuing that study, by the intense heat of the Weather, which which has not permitted me to walk much during the Summer, the Months of December, and January, have been hotter than I can describe, indeed insufferably so. The Thermometer rising from

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an 100 to an 112 degrees is I believe 30 degrees above the hottest day known in England – the general heat is to be borne – but when we are oppressed by the hot winds we have no other resource – but to shut up ourselves in our Houses and to endeavor to the utmost of our power to exclude every breath of air – This Wind blows from the North, and comes as if from a heated oven, Those winds are generally succeeded by a Thunder storm, so severe and awful, that it is impossible for one who has not been a Witness to such a Violent concussion of the Elements to form any notion of it. I am not yet enough used to it, to be quite unmoved, it is so different from the Thunder we have in England, I cannot help being a little Cowardly, yet no injury has ever been suffer’d from it, except a few sheep being kill’d which were laying under a Tree, that was struck by the Lightning, a Thunder storm has always the effect to bring heavy rain, which cools the air very considerably, I have seen very little rain, since my arrival, indeed I do not think we have had a Weeks rain in the whole time: the consequence of which is, our Gardens produce nothing, all is burnt up, indeed the soil must be allow’d to be most wretched and totally unfit for growing any European productions tho’ a stranger would scarcely believe this, as the face of the ground at this moment, where it is in its native state is flourishing even to Luxuriance; producing fine Shrubs, Trees, and Flowers, which by their lively tints, afford a most agreeable Landscape, Beauty I have heard from some of my unletter’d Country Men is but skin deep, I am sure the remark holds good in N: S: Wales – where all the Beauty is litterally on the surface, but I believe

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I must allow it has symetry of form also to recomend it – as the ground in all the parts that have been discover’d is charmingly turned and diversified by agreeable Vallies, and gently rising Hills. but still those beauties are all exterior, Many Gentlemen have penetrated far into the Country, but they find little difference in the appearance of the Soil. Some Rivers have been discover’d to one of which the Govr has given the name of the Hawksbury [Hawkesbury], it is a very Noble one, and empties itself into the Sea; at a Harbour which Captn Cook in his Voyage nam’d Broken Bay, another River has been discover’d, which some call the Nepean, another the Tench and another the Worgan, it is supposed by some, that those three are one, and the same River only have been lighted upon by Explorers: at different distances from its source – If the British Government think fit to continue the Colony, those Rivers may be of great Utility; particularly in dry Seasons – as all the fresh Water we have near Sydney us very inconsiderable tho’ we cannot say we have hitherto wanted Water.

I have not yet seen the famous settlement of Rose Hill. I wanted much to have paid it a Visit before the ship sail’d, but have now given up the Idea – the Weather is yet too warm, and Rose Hill has not the benefit of Sea-breezes so much as we have at Sydney, all the ground Works and Farming Schemes are carried on at Rose Hill; tho’ the head quarters are here, The last harvest was a very one, the Wheat, and Barley, not yielding thrice the quantity that was sown, The Indian Corn return’d something more, but it was altogether a poverty struck harvest,

It is very likely my next Letter to you may be dated from Rose-hill Captn Nepean has an Idea that the Govr will remove the remainder of his detachment and Men, thither as soon as the

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Barracks are compleated which are already half finish’d, after the three officers I have already named for Norfolk are gone there will only remain at Sydney Cove Captn Nepean, Mr Townson Mr McArthur and the Surgeon Mr Harris, this would indeed be a very small society if it were in danger of losing the Marine Officers, but that cannot be the case till the remainder of the Corps arrive, We shall be well pleas’d to remove any where with Captn Nepean, he is truly a good hearted Man and has I believe a great friendship for Mr McArthur,

You will observe I have made no excursion, of any consequence perhaps you will wonder how I should make any in a Country like this. I will tell you how – the Harbour of Port Jackson is universally allow’d to be the finest in the known World from the mouth of which to Rose Hill, they call 16 Miles in a straight direction, then it is so beautifully form’d that I can conceive of nothing equal to it, branching out into a number of Arms, and Coves, forming little Islands, and points of Land, so agreeable and romantic that the most fanciful imagination must tire, and, I think allow himself to be outdone and yield the palm to the reality and simple nature of a Harbour so form’d and of such extent, a number of pleasant little Water parties might be made to some of those Islands or Bays; and a number I yet promise myself, but hitherto from Mr McArthurs long confinement, and since his recovery from the heat of the Weather, I have been enabled to put but one in execution and that was to a Bay near the harbours mouth, about 6 miles from Sydney, we pass’d the day in Walking among the Rocks, and upon the sand very agreeably, I look’d carefully for some Shells for you, but could find

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13

none better than what you can get at Bude or Widemouth. above this Bay about half a miles distance is a very high Hill which commands an extensive view of the Wide Ocean, on it is placed a Flag-Staff, which can also be seen at Sydney. When a ship appears the Flag is hoisted; by which means we have notice of it, much sooner than we otherways would have, it also conducts the Vessel into the Harbour. There are a few Huts near the Flag-Staff, with people in them appointed to keep a look-out, and from thence the spot has derived the general name of Look-out,

Of my walks round Sydney the longest has not extended beyond three Miles and that distance I have I believe only ventured upon twice: once to a Farm which Captn Nepean has for his Company, to which we sent our Tea equipage and drank Tea on the turf; and once to a Hill situated between this and Botany Bay where I could command a prospect of that famous spot. Nor do I think there is any probability, of my seeing much of the Inland Country, untill it is clear’d, as beyond a certain distance round the Colony, there is nothing but Native paths, very narrow and very incommodious, the Natives are certainly not a very Gallant set of people, who take pleasure in escorting their Ladies, No – they suffer them humbly to follow, Indian file like

As I am now speaking of the Natives, I must give you an account how we stand with them, in order to give you an Idea of this part of our political Government, it will be necessary to carry the account back to a period some months previous to my arrival. In the Winter 1789 (which you will recollect is summer in England) a dreadful Small-pox was discover’d amongst the Natives, how the disorder was introduced cannot be discover’d. They were found lying in a Miserable State some dead and others dying, nor is it to be wonder’d at that this disorder should in general be so fatal to them, when we consider they are not in

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possession of a Single palliative nor have any means of procuring nourishment for themselves, when their strength no longer permits them to persue their usual avocations of fishing hunting the Kangaroo, and other little animals, on which they live

Amongst the unhappy objects that were discover’d was a Boy and a Girl, those were brought in, and from the humanity of the Clergyman, who took the Girl, and of the principle Surgeon Mr White who took the boy, they were both sav’d, The Girl whom I mentioned to you in my former Letters by the name of Abaroo, or Booroo, (for it is difficult to catch their exact pronunciation more so to give you an Idea of it by Letters,) appears to be about Eleven years old, The Boy (named Nanberry) about nine after they began to learn English, and to make us understand them: it was imagined from their communication, that if a Man or two could be brought to reside with us, that some valuable information might be obtain’d, respecting the interior parts of the country – With this view the Govr left as means untried to effect an intimacy, with them; but every endeavor of that sort as before prov’d ineffectual, They accept of his presents, as Children do play things: just to amuse them for a moment and then throw them away, disregarded, Despairing to gain their confidence by fair Means, the Govr order’d that two Men should be taken by force, This was done, the poor Fellows, I am told exhibited the strongest Marks of terror and consternation at this proceeding, believing they were certainly meant, to be Sacrificed When they were taken to the Govrs House and immediately clean’d and Cloth’d their astonishment at every thing the saw, was amazing A New World was unfolded to their view at once; for some days they were much dejected, but it soon gave way to Cheerfulness they were then admitted to the Governors Table and in a little time ate and

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drank every thing that was given them. they now Walk’d about the Settlement as they lik’d, only with a Man who was appointed to attend them, that they might not escape into the Woods, but as they show’d no apparent inclination to do that, the Vigilance of their keeper by degrees abated; which the oldest of the two named Coleby, soon observed: and in a very artful Manner one night, made his escape: the one who remain’d, and call’d himself Bannylong [Bennelong], ’till May 1790 and then took himself off, without any known reason, having been treated with the most uniform kindness; and appear’d highly pleas’d with our people, and Manners; taking it a great Compliment to be call’d White Man for the time he was here he acquired English enough, to make himself understood in common matters, and furnish’d our people with the Native Names for Animals, Birds, Fish, &c – from this time till after our arrival, nothing was known respecting them, as the Natives whenever they met with any of our people were more Shy than ever, and could not be brought to a parley. Nanberry, and Abaroo still remain’d easy and happy expressing no wish to return to the Woods, On the 7th of Septr Captn Nepean, and several other Gentlemen went down the Harbour in a Boat; with an intention of proceeding to Broken Bay to take a view of the Hawkesbury River, in their way they put in at Manly Cove (a place so call’d from the Spirited behaviour of the Natives there at the Governors first landing.) at this time, about two Hundred Natives were assembled, feeding on a Whale: that had been driven on Shore, as they discover’d no hostile intentions our party having Arms went up to them. Nanberry was in the Boat, and was desired to enquire for Bannylong, and Coleby when behold, both Gentlemen appear’d: and advancing with the utmost confidence ask’d in broken English, for all their old friends at Sydney, They exchanged several Weapons for provisions, and

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Clothes – and gave some Whale bone as a present for the Governor. Captn Nepean knowing this news would be very pleasing to the Govr. dispatch’d a Messenger to inform him of it, and proceeded on towards Broken Bay – The Govr. lost no time, but as soon as he was acquainted with the above circumstances order’d a Boat and accompanied by Mr Collins (The Judge Advocate) and a Lieut Waterhouse of the Navy; repair’d to Manly Cove, he landed by himself, unarm’d, in order to shew no Violence was intended

Bannylong approach’d, and shook hands with the Govr. – but Coleby had before left the Spot, no reason was ask’d why Bannylong had left as he appear’d very happy, and thankful for what was given him; requesting a hatchet and some other things which the Govr. promised to bring him the next day, Mr. Collins, and Mr Waterhouse, now join’d them; and several Natives also came forward, they continued to converse with much seeming friendship untill they had insensibly wander’d some distance from the Boat and very imprudently none of the Gentlemen had the precaution to take a gun in their hand, This the Govr perceiving, deem’d it provident to retreat; and after assuring Bannylong that he would remember his promise; told him, he was going.

at that moment an old looking Man advanced, whom Bannylong said was his friend, and wish’d the Govr. to take notice of him, at this he approach’d the old Man, with his hand extended, when on a Sudden the Savage started back and snatch’d up a spear from the ground, and poiz’d it to throw the Govr seeing the danger told him in their Tongue that it was bad; and still advanced: when with a Mixture of horror, and intrepidity, the Native discharg’d the Spear with all his force at the Govr, it enter’d above his Collar bone, and came out at his back nine inches from the entrance; taking an Oblique direction, the Natives from the

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5th 17

Rocks now pour’d in their Spears in abundance; so that it was with the utmost difficulty, and the greatest good fortune: that no other hurt was rec’d in getting the Govr into the Boat.

As soon as they return’d to this place, you may believe an universal solicitude prevail’d as the danger of the Wound could by no means be asertain’d, untill the spear was extracted and this was not done before his Excellency had caus’d some papers to be arranged – lest the consequence might prove fatal, which happily it did not, for in drawing out the spear, it was found that as no vital part had been touch’d. the Governour having a good habit of Bodily health – the wound perfectly heal’d in the course of a few weeks.

Since that a Convict game keeper has been kill’d [by] a Spear; but it seems in some measure to have been owing to his own imprudence. Bannylong came many times to see the Govr, during his confinement, and express’s great sorrow: but the reason why the Mischief was done could not be learnt, since that period the Natives visit us every day, more or less. Men, Women and Children they come with great confidence, without spears or any other offensive Weapon, a great many have taken up their abode entirely amongst us, and Bannylong, and Coleby, with their Wives come in frequently, Mrs. Coleby whose name is Daringa brought in a new born female Infant of hers, for me to see; about six Weeks since – it was wrapp’d up in the soft bark of a Tree, a Specimen of which I have preserved, it is a kind of a Mantle not much known in England I fancy, I ordered something for the poor Woman to Eat, and had her taken proper care of for some little while, when she first presented herself to me she appear’d feeble, and faint, She has since been regular in her visits The Child thrives remarkably Well. and I discover a softness and gentleness of manners in Daringa truly interesting. We do not in [ge]neral encourage them to come to our houses, as you may conceive

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there are some offensive circumstances, which makes their company by no means desirable unless it be those who live wholly with us, a good deal of their Language (if it may be so call’d) is now understood. but we can learn nothing from them respecting the interior part of the Country, it seems they are so much unacquainted with it as ourselves, all their knowledge and persuits are [confined] to that of procuring for themselves a bare Subsistence They chiefly abide about the Sea coast, the Women appear to be under very great subjugation, and are employed in the most Laborious part of their Work, They fish, and also make the Lines and Hooks and indeed seem very little otherways than Slaves to their husbands

They weave their Lines from the Bark of a certain tree: which we call May from the perfume the flower has which Strongly resembles the White Thorn, that blows in that Month in England Their hooks they grind into form from a Shell. they perform this with great dexterity upon any rough Stone Their Canoes are made of the Bark of some of their gum trees, taken off in a particular form, for that purpose. Those they paddle about the Coves, and Bays, very dextrously.

The Weapons they use, are a Spear, a wooden Sword, a Stone Adze, or Ax, and a fish gig The latter is wholly used in spearing the fish in the Water, The Spears which they aim and discharge with Wonderful ingenuity at a great distance are some of them most dangerous Weapons having many barbs in them, and sharpen’d Shells; but they are still under such terror of our fire Arms, that a single armed Man would drive an hundred Natives with their Spears and we take care not to venture walking to any distance unarm’d, a Soldier or two always attending when we make any excursion. I have never yet met a Single Native in the Woods. I told you in my last, I thought their dialect pleasing

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6th 19

[Part of this page has been torn and is missing. Partial lines are transcribed with missing words indicated by ... Personal names listed are difficult to make out and may not be correct. See image for details.]

Some of their names I think much so. I will give you a [few] Native Names, and begin with the men, Arrabason, Volahuai Imiriwanga, Boldarry, Wecong, Watteval Erroniba female names, Milbah, Booel Barangeroo Cadimany Mooningooru Worigan Crewboro. Mr Dawes who has studied the Language, or Jargon, a good deal has endeavored [to] learn what their notions are of the Deity. It is not discover’d that they worship the Sun, or any of the heavenly Bodies, and yet they say all who die, go up to the Clouds
Mr Dawes thinks they have the tradition of the Flood among them They say one Man, and one Woman, was sav’d in a
... be traced It is not wonderful
... flood as all nations
... and have (more or less
... account of the Natives
... the Ship was under
... however been detain[ed] a Week longer My spirits are at this time low very low.

Tomorrow we lose some valuable members of our small society, and some very good friends, In so small a Society we sensibly feel the loss of every Member more particularly those that are endear’d to us by acts of kindness and friendship from this circumstance, and my former Letters, you may be led to question my happiness, but thus much I can with truth add for myself, that since I have had the powers of reason and reflection, I never was more sincerely happy than at this time, it is true I have some wishes unaccomplished, that I [think] would add to my comfort, but when I consider this is not a state of perfection, I am abundantly content

Adieu E McArthur

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[Cover page.]

Mrs McArthur

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No 4

Aug. 23 1796

Once more I take my pen to address my dear Mrs McArthur the lov’d companion of my early hours – and she whose friendship in maturer life I have still set a greater value on – here I expect you to exclaim why then do I not oftner hear from you? No reason shou’d you have for this question were it not for the uncertainty of my letters ever reaching you – of the many I have sent – as yet I have heard but of one that ever was receiv’d.

’Tis long since I had the pleasure of hearing from you but the many favourable accounts I have read in the public papers of new South Wales – have afforded me great satisfaction – often do I wish that it were in my powers to visit you – I have form’d so favorable an opinion of your situation – that nothing but the dread and danger of the Voyage – prevents my wishes from being realiz’d – but as in all probability they never can be – I hope the time is not far distant that will restore you & Mr. McArthur with your Family to your native country – your friends in this neighbourhood male frequent inquiries for you but of late I have not had it in my power to give them any information – but will now endeavour to give you some of them

Perhaps you may not have heard of Mr. Hammets death – which happen’d about two years since in a sudden manner – when Langford became Miss Wollacombs – she with her Brother & his Family have since resided there – we find them very pleasant Neighbours – no material alteration has taken place at Whitstone – only that the family are more generally visited than when you left England – the Miss [l’Ans’s?] are fine young Women – The Major

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appears particularly fond of them – yet still continues to visit Miss Harris – Mr. & Mrs. Baynes have a numerous family – seven children I think just of one size – I suppose you must have heard that Miss Martyn of Stratton has been maried several years to a Mr Clark but as her Husband is chiefly abroad – she still continues to live with her Father – the Esqr has also been maried several years and lives at Mevagisey – Tom still continues single I have heard that he has been rather unfortunate in his attachments – Mr. J King is a widower and now at Stratton with his Father – Mr D King has been maried some time – his wife is a pleasant little woman. Captain Moriarty is become a Major – Mrs. M– died soon after her leaving this country – the Major has lately consol’d himself for her loss – by taking another wife – we have never seen him since he left [indecipherable]

The long family are all now married – or soon to be so except Dolly who I do not hear has any admirers – she as well as myself will I believe have the felicity of dying an old Maid – Mr. R Kingdon has given up Business – quitted Holsworthy and gone with his Family to live at Barnstaple – Mr. & Mrs. Braddon I have not seen for a long time but my mother often recives messages from Mrs. B. requesting that she will visit her and this summer I believe she intends to comply with her request – Mr. I [indecipherable] still lives at Furze a Bachelor – nor do I hear that he has any inclination to change his state – Upon the whole we are very gay in this Neighbourhood – Bude is much resorted to by strangers and we have so many young folks within a few miles – that we have frequent parties there – Out of the last twelve months I have been absent from home Eight – and the remaining four

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[Part of this page has been torn and is missing. Partial lines are transcribed with missing words indicated by ... or by square brackets where it is possible to interpolate. See image for details.]

have had company at home Miss Judith Kingdon is now with me – when she quits Bridgerule – I mean to live a more solitary life than I have lately done – Now I will endeavour to give you a more particular account of my own Family – My Father & Mother are just the same as when you left them – John now lives at Marham-church – has already three children – Roger – do not be surpriz’d is now in the West Indies – chaplain on Board the ... I believe he has now run as much as he wishes ... and will the first opportunity return home – Char[les] continues a Bachelor at the Bridge – Richard liv[es] ... with his Uncle Dennis – Thomas is now at Home – but ... to Oxford – he has been some time Fellow of Exeter ... Frank still continues at Bideford – with Mr. Smith ... will soon be out – and then of course he must go to ... education – Dennis is a Lieutenant in the ... and [indecipherable] by this time – ... arriv’d at the Cape of Good Hope Christopher & Eliza are [both at] Home –

I wou’d now give you some account of the Fashion – particularly of the Ladies dress – but you know my inability to discuss the subject – There is no such thing as a waist – stays are quite an unnecessary part of female dress – ’tis petticoats up to the shoulders & below the feet – Hats are still worn small – but indeed dress as you will you are not thought particular unless you have a long waist – and it is very seldom that we see two people whose garments are made the same – ’tis quite fashionable to write on colour’d paper but you my dear friend will I hope excuse my using plain white indeed this place will afford no other – I must also beg you to

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exuse my writing in haste as it was not ’till last night Farmer Bond inform’d me he cou’d send a Letter – and I am engag’d every day till he must have it – I need not speak of your Mother as she intends writing you –

All here join in best respects to yourself & Mr. McArthur & love to your little ones ’tho unknown – & believe me sincerely
your affectionate friend
B. Kingdon
Bridgerule August 23d 1796

[Address panel:]

August 1796
Miss Kingdon

From Miss Kingdon Augst. 96

Mrs. McArthur
Sydney-cove
New South wales

To the Care of
Mr. James McArthur
Plym[outh]

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No 5.

Bridgerule Septr 15th 1799

It is impossible for me to express – my dearest friend – the satisfaction I have receiv’d from the perusal of your late letters – a thousand thanks to you for mine. There was but one sentiment in it that I cou’d not approve – and that implies a doubt whether or not I might receive your letters with pleasure – but let me hope that you cou’d not for a moment be serious on the subject – were we not from childhood brought up together as intimate friends? and whatever attachments may be form’d afterward – it is my opinion that they are seldom so lasting – or well grounded as those friendships which have continued from early life – sincerely do I hope that nothing may ever intervene – to lessen the regard – I trust we at present have for each other – through you I shall hope for Mr. Mc Arthurs friendship – yet I half fear him – for when we are so happy as to see him in your native country – I doubt not but he will laugh at the Old Maid – it is an odium we must all bear – tho’ I think undeservedly – at least the ridiculer shou’d first point out – what those unfortunate females are to do – who have not an offer from a person they can approve – but why my dear friend do you tax me with being over nice? let me assure you – you have no reason for it – I honour the

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marriage state – and had a proper opportunity offer’d – shou’d not have declin’d it – what then wou’d you have me do? not surely be so eccentric as to reverse the matter – and make an offer – (If you wou’d) I have not courage – nor vanity sufficient to pursue the scheme – unless indeed I had a vast deal of the ready – now is so much look’d after – and indeed so absolutely necessary – but having neither youth – wealth – or beauty to recommend me – I shall endeavour to make myself contented with the state I am in – you have my grateful thanks however for your kind advice – tho’ it is not granted me to follow it – you will I fear think me an egotist – but something it was necessary to say – in answer to that part of your letter – there is not a person in the world to whom I wou’d so soon disclose every sentiment of my heart as yourself – at present – I have not a secret lurking there – what has been – wou’d afford you no pleasure – and occasion me some regret – excuse me therefore from writing on a subject – that I never allow myself to think on – I look forward to the pleasure of seeing you in England – and then any questions – you may wish to ask – shall be answer’d with the utmost candour – for there is not a thing respecting myself – that I wou’d wish to be a secret to you – and now my Dear Mrs. M. let me congratulate you on your happier fate – it ever was my opinion that Mr. M wou’d make an excellent Husband – if he met with a woman whose disposition – and accomplishments suited him – in that

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respect how fortunate – and how fortunate for you – that you met with a man possess’d of good sense – and sensibility – God grant that your present happiness may be continued to you – I saw your little Edward soon after his arrival in England – he is a charming boy he was allow’d to spend but a week with us – and dear little fellow – was so loth to depart – that tho’ we wish’d for his longer stay – we were oblig’d to join in persuading him to go – he then – tho’ so young – wou’d walk with my Father – the whole morning – in pursuit of a Horse – and come in cover’d with dirt – yet ask – if he shou’d not go again tomorrow – he wish’d to call my Father Grand-pappa – and said that it was very hard that he cou’d not stay longer – for his Papa & Mama promis’d he shou’d – we hope that he will be permitted to spend his christmas Holidays with us – we have desir’d that Mr. Bond who goes to Plymouth this week – will solicit leave of Mr. McArthur – you will be agreably surpriz’d to hear that my mother is quite well – never since I can remember – did she enjoy such good health – she is grown so fat – that I think you wou’d scarcely know her – my Father is much the same as when you left him – still active and busy about many things – my eldest Brother has already five little ones – and is likely soon to have another – following his fathers example – you will say – whether it is the dread of a large

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family – or what may be their motive – I know not – but all my other Brothers remain bachelors – Roger has liv’d at home for some time – Charles is still at the Bridge – Richard at Exeter Thomas – now resides at Guildford – a place he seems highly pleas’d with – he speaks of his society there – as superior to any he ever met with – I do hope he will always find them such as he now describes – very sorry was I to part with him – as he was always a pleasant companion – and kind Brother – it is a great pleasure to me that he has found so charming a residence – Frank is settled at Torrington – and I flatter myself that he will do very well – he visits us often – Dennis has been home for some months past – he had leave to return to England on account of his health and I trust his native air will perfectly restore him – to all appearance he is now well – he has a good appetite – and undisturb’d repose – but after any unusual fatigue – he generally complains in his side – if his health permits – he returns to India in the spring – and I hope to embrace that opportunity – of again writing you – Christopher is now at home – nor is it yet fix’d – what line of life he is to pursue – you know my Fathers partiality for the church - but he himself is not fond of it – nor is it approv’d by the rest of the family – Eliza is grown a very

[Page 46]

tall girl – but has not yet been to school –

Major [indecipherable] family are all grown up. They are most of them Handsome – and Florence is – I think – altogether one of the most lovely girls I have ever seen – Miss Jones is a very fine young woman – and the three Miss Wollacombs are fine girls – we have also two Miss Daymans – grown to women – in whose favor I have heard much – but having been myself long absent from home I can scarcely say I know them – my Uncle with his family resides at Bude – he also – has two dashing daughters – there are many others – equally celebrated with those I have mention’d – in the neighbourhood. after this you will not wonder that the stratton Cassino’s still continue – and are far more genteelly attended than when first set [indecipherable] – my Brother John endeavours as well as possible to supply Mr Hammetts place – and indeed I think the young people in this neighbourhood right to be greatly oblig’d to him – there is also a Cassino establish’d at Holsworthy – which commenc’d for this season – last evening – it was I have been told by many who attended it very gay – several of the ladies call’d here this morning on their return – I had not been very well for this week past – else I believe I shou’d have been a partaker in their pleasure – having many friends at Holsworthy to whom I am

[Page 47]

indebted a visit – the family with whom I most associate in that place – are the Meyricks – all of whom I find very pleasant – and receive very civilly from – but since my return home I have had very little opportunity of visiting any of my acquaintance – about twelve months since I left this place for Exeter – where I stay’d more than six months – and then came to Oakhampton, where I remain’d – for three – visiting Mrs Colling and my old friend Mrs Hawkes – whose constant kindness – and attention – I shall ever with gratitude remember – Mr Hawkes is now there – and begs he may be respectfully remember’d to yourself and Mr McArthur – I have many visits to pay this winter – but whether or not it will be in my power I cannot say – I have a numerous acquaintance and of course – must frequently be from home – a quiet tranquil life is what I shou’d prefer – but our family is too large to expect it at home – where there is always some machine or other in motion – your mother came here last evening – to shew us the letters she had receiv’d from you – and told me that if I meant to write by the ship now going out – I must send the letter tomorrow morning – I was unwilling to let such an opportunity slip – yet have not had a moments leisure since I receiv’d the intelligence having company in the house – I am oblig’d to write after night you must therefore excuse the unintelligible scrawl that I shall

[Page 48]

send you – flattering myself that you wou’d rather receive this than none – You request of me a particular account of your sister very little – have I had an opportunity – of seeing or conversing with her – why I know not – but I have an Idea that she is rather shy of me – this I know that she is fonder of my little sister – my mother takes the liberty of advising her – as often as she sees her and that is not always so pleasant to young minds – particularly if they shou’d have an Idea that the advisor ought not to interfere with them – perhaps I also may have been too free of my advice – she sometimes comes here – and from the accounts I hear – she is bless’d with a good disposition – and I doubt not but from [your?] and Mr McArthurs kindness to her she will answer all [your?] expectations – she means to write by the same conveyance [that?] I hope this letter will reach you – and I doubt not but she will give a satisfactory account of herself – When I write you next – I hope to have more time – unus’d to write much by candle – I must bid you adieu – the best wishes of this family attend Mr McArthur and yourself – fail not to write me by every opportunity – for to hear of your welfare is to me the greatest gratification – and now with [best?] respects to Mr McArthur – and love to your little ones – tho’ unknown
Believe me my dear friend
yours sincerely
B Kingdon

[Page 49]

[Cover sheet and address.]

Miss Kingdon
Septr 15th 1799 –

Mrs McArthur
Elizabeth Farm
Parramatta
New South wales

[Page 50]

[Family tree; some notes in pencil. See original for details and layout.]

Mr Hatherley married [dash]
had [five] children:

Peter Hatherley

John Hatherley of Bridgerule [married; three children:]
Thomas
Peter or Wm died young
Isabella, died 1836, married W. Veale, 1st Husband
[daughter] Mrs Macarthur (Elizabeth Veale, wife of Capt. John Macarthur)

Mary [Hatherley] married Humphrey Deyman;
[son] Richd Deyman [married] Agnes Allen;
[children:] Mrs Boughton & other children

Elizabeth [Hatherley] married Mr Rattenbury

Wm [Hatherley]

[Page 51]

[Reverse of family tree page.]

Mr Boughton
Relationship shewn

[Page 52]

Miss Murrays.
Mr. Boyters family tree –

[Page 53]

[Page of notes, divided into three columns. See original for layout and details.]

Miss ? married 3 times

1. Mrs Leach
Mrs McArthur probably married at Bridgerule 179- (?) – godmother to my aunt Miss Kingdon, corresponded with her from Australia – Her sons John & Edward paid Annuity (thro my father) from about 1825 to their grandmother till her death

2 Mrs Veal
Mrs Hacker Mrs Sanders & Mary Sanders her daughter now living at West Yeomadon
Pyworthy
Holsworthy
Devon

3 Mrs Bond a fine old lady as I remember her from 1820 to 1840 or 1850 (?) 1836 buried at Bridgerule where she had lived the greatest part of her life.

C H K

P.T.O

[Page 54]

The preceding page contains notes by C. H. Kingdon (niece or nephew) of Miss Eliza Kingdon, god-daughter and correspondent of Mrs John Macarthur, it contains some errors.

M. F. 4.8.1947

[Page 55]

No 180

Elizabeth Macarthur the wife of John Macarthur of Elizabeth Farm Parramatta & Camden Park Camden NS.W was born in Devonshire – her Father died when she was still a very young child & she was brought up by her grandfather whose Property was in the neighbourhood of Bridge-Rule nr [indecipherable] Launceston – She appears to have married Mr Macarthur when about 20 years of age & left with Him for New South Wales in Novr 1789 – I have a Copy of her Journal which will I think prove interesting – which gives a good account of the tedious nature of the voyage in those Early days of NSW

I remember my dear grandmother very distinctly tho’ she died in 1849.

written by Mrs. Elizabeth Macarthur Onslow

[Page 56]

29th May 1809

Dear Madam

In the course of the day will you be kind enough to inform yourself of the Persons name from whom Mr Mc.Arthur purchased Pyrmont, the date of the Grant, and in whose favour the same was made out, – also the date of the Grant of the Ground at Cockle bay, for I have neglected so long to compleat our little law proceedings, that I am really afraid you will place an unfavourable interpretation on my neglect –

after the Civil Court is over I will do myself the honor of waiting upon you

I am Dr Madam
Yours most respectfully
G. Blaxcell

Mrs. Mc.Arthur.

[Page 57]

[Calculation (shillings and pence).]

12.6
2-6
1 3
[Total:] 16-3

[Page 58]

30.5.1809

Dear Sir

I inclose the Memorandums relative to the two Grants, which I would have sent yesterday, but was prevented, from not very readily knowing where to put my hand on the papers –

I will not say that I have not thought of the little business we have to transact – because I am most anxious that every thing pointed out to me by Mr. McArthur should be executed as soon as possible – And every day I feel such an accumulated weight of responsibility and care, that whatever tends to lighten any part of it is desirable

[Page 59]

My knowledge of the various claims upon your time, and the difficultys delays which usually occur in fitting out Ships for Sea – has made me unwilling to arrest your attention to a subject which I felt assured you would consider, as soon as you were were at leisure –

I am concerned to hear the reports from the Hawkesbury – I have no grain in hand & am very fearful of much difficulty in procuring the quantity I want

Dr Sir
[Signature?]

[Page 60]

Memorandum
Mr. BLaxcell
May 30th 1809

[Page 61]

[This letter written and part then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 2 Letter

Copied No. 7.

Parramatta Wednesday Morning
Feby. 12th 1823

Yesterday, my beloved Son, we wrote you a hasty letter, sent it off by an especial messenger to Sydney, to you by the Minerva this morning – since it was dispatched a letter has been recd. from Major Goulburn – to which your father wrote a reply this morning, it is sent under cover to Capt. [indecipherable] to Govt. House at Parramatta – desiring he will forward it to Major G. – so that Sir Thomas will if he pleases, read it first. – Copies of both Letters, are now sent, in hopes it will yet be in time for the Ship, also your fathers remarks to you, there upon. –
What can I add upon this unpleasant subject? – one upon which, I can truly say I had not the least apprehension, that any difficulty would have arisen. –
Your dear father is now asleep. He did not rest during the night but I think he will be more composed, and tranquil now that an answer is given received – unworthy as it is. – Why Major Goulburn is inimical to your father – I cannot tell? – still less

can I account for such extreme vacillation on the part of Sir Thos. Brisbane – your fathers Estate, was an object of jealousy to the late Government, but I never expected it would have been, to the present. –
The last time I ever saw Governor Macquarie – he said to me – Mrs MacArthur – I believed your two sons had taken or chosen their Land in Mr Throsbys Country, as it is, I am sorry they have it not where D’Arrieta & Douglass are fixed" – Still by their [indecipherable] those Gentleman which is the only thing that can now be done I think here after, these Lands may be purchased “on advantageous terms". – he said this to me in a kind, and conciliating manner, and I thought he meant to impress upon my mind that Mr. Oxley had given him to understand James & William had chosen their Land in Westmorland, before

it had been decided to Grant away the Cow pastures – Mr. Oxley when I saw him, laboured to make us believe it was the “rancorous feeing" of Governor and Mrs. Macquarie towards us that made them take this measure to injure & annoy us that he himself was altogether “ignorant he declared to God" – of any intention there was to grant away the Cow pastures, before he was ordered to [measure?] D’Arrietta & Douglass & Major Antill – how much of either of those stories is true I cannot tell – but you may infer that Governor Macquarie, and also Mr. Oxley the Surveyor Genl. thought your Brothers had just cause to complain of ill-treatment & injustice. –
It is certain Govr. Macquarie left a remark amongst many others – for the guidance of his successor, Sir Thomas Brisbane – that your Father was entitled to Land for the payment of the [indecipherable] – but he had

not promised that it should be given at the Cow-pastures" – after some little deliberation, however, Sir Thomas thought fit to allow your father to have the tract marked Brisbane on the Chart – this is all upland, badly watered – of little use in dry Seasons. –
What reason can be given for not allowing the 5000 acres to be measured adjoining the lower Camden Estate, I cannot think. – the reserving it for Government purposes, is a pretence, – Mr. Oxley is looking to have it himself – I cannot but think. –
I am quite certain your father has never by any one act – given Sir T. Brisbane cause of complaint. – I hope still things will be smooth between them – but after such a breach of promise – I can hardly tell how the Governor can meet your father however, that is his affair, between ourselves. – I was afraid when the letter of “remonstrance" as it is called, was written, that it would not read, very

[Crossed section:]

agreeably –
I lament dearest John that this which has already caused you so much trouble and anxious Solicitude – should still be productive of more
Ever yr affect. Mother
E McA –
12 O Clock
We have just recd a message from Govt. House with two numbers of the “John Bull" which were lent to the Governor – your father dictates the prospect of the passage to Elizabeth – who is now writing – I am glad to be enabled to add – that your father is quite soothed by the message – as you will perceive
N.B. I haste to remark, that we lost fifty or sixty fine Ewes, some months since, by a Shepherd forcing

them down one of the steep ravines of Brisbane!!!
You will see it mentioned I think in a letter of Williams – by The Shipley – I remark this to show – how liable we are to receive injuries by grazing sheep on such lands – entrusted to such Shepherds as we have here. –

[Page 62]

[For transcription see page 61.]

[Page 63]

[For transcription see page 61.]

[Page 64]

[For transcription see page 61.]

[Page 65]

1824?

No. 179

Assure yourself my beloved Son of the united love of all here – They are all now asleep – knowing not that I am writing – they would persuade me from it – under the belief there is no chance of this being received before what may be written by the Courier. – I was very glad to receive Miss Kingdons letter by the Guildford but mortified & hurt that she should have had so much trouble – I will write to her by the Courier – It is a melancholy picture she draws of my poor relatives –

I trust my mother will at least be comfortable – the thought that she has [not] been &c – has embittered many an hour –

Once more Adieu my dear John
I cannot read over what I have written my eyes will not allow of it, by Candle light

[Page 66]

John Macarthur Esqr.
Inner Temple,
London

[Page 67]

[This letter written and part then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

Corrected

No. 8

2

Parramatta March 26th 1824

My Dearest John/

I am just apprized of the ship William Shand being to sail for Batavia to-morrow as I know letters sent by this route have not unfrequently reached England, as soon as those despatched by a direct conveyance – I am induced at this very short notice, even, to risk a Letter – and particularly as the Courier which is the first vessel expected to sail for England will not go before the second week in April, & perhaps not then, - My first communication shall be to tell you my beloved Son, that we are all well, your father James & William are at Camden. James left us this morning unknowing of this Ships sailing, & we, that is, James, myself & dear Mary came from Sydney only last Evening, where I had been staying a few days – I went there to call on Mrs Forbes – Mr. Bowman drove up from Sydney this Evening, and communicated the intelligence, which will trouble you with this letter. – you will be pleased to learn that the Guildford arrived safe on the 5th of this month – your father was at Sydney at the time, staying with Mr Bowman & Mary – so that he had the pleasure to receive our letters & pay his Compliments to the new judge immediately – your dear father was exceedingly pleased

& rejoiced after just seeing & welcoming Mr. Forbes. he hastened home to us to impart the joy of his [hunt? suit?] – he went to Sydney again the Monday following to attend the ceremonial of the Judge landing. –
Mr. & Mrs Forbes & the Children came to Govt. House Parramatta on the Tuesday, remained until Saturday, Mr. Forbes & the Govr. called here on Wednesday – we all dined at Government House on Thursday – Sir Thomas [Brisbane] & Mr. Forbes went to Emu Plains friday – returned to Sydney Saturday as I said before – thus ends my history of the week, Mr Forbes said he had much to talk of with us – here after “he was now looking on" – told me he wished the Hibernia might not arrive for five or six weeks, that he might look about before he entered on duty – your father went to Camden the day after he dined at Govt. House
I am in hopes the Land is at length in a fair way to be settled – Major Goulburn however has resisted in every way he could and now withholds the Buildings & Paddock & requires your father to enter into some securities with the Crown Solicitor – his letters are a tirade of nonsense however, he is moved to go himself to the Cow pastures actually set off yesterday, was to sleep at Liverpool

last night, he has told De Arriette that he was going to put Mr MacArthur in possession of Camden, that he should take up his abode with him one night, as the Govt. House was on Mr. MacArthur’s land, he thought he had better not stay there – laughed very heartily at this & seemed to make it a very fine joke, about to be finished – this De Arriette told James when saw him at Sydney yesterday morning –
James set out this morning to communicate to his father what was going on, Colonel Balfour of the 40th, Patrick Campbell, one of Lochard’s Sons & George Innes – are all at Camden, the two latter on a visit to William, the former to your father perhaps some of the party may encounter the Major
We think, he has a double purpose to answer in this extraordinary undertaking – his friend Dr. Douglass’s farm joins De Arriettes – the family are visiting there so that he will have an opportunity of visiting them
You will be astonished to learn that Dr Douglass secretly took his departure in the Ocean, was in fact, smuggled on board, when the Ship was nearly at Sea, with an order from the Colonial Secretary to the Commander Capn. Harrison, to take him, being “sent on affairs of Govr.", you will no doubt be surprized at all, this, as no letters by the Ocean could prepare you to expect

the arrival of a person of so much importance, and one who has been such a prominent actor in the history of the Colony, the last two years – you will also be surprized that he should have been appointed by the Govr. “Judge of the Court of Requests" – before the arrival of Mr Forbes – the charter not yet arrived – a years salary – at least – two thousand dollars advanced him out of the Police fund – this seems all wonderful – & perhaps is only to astonish weak minds –
You had very long details sent you by the Ocean but you could not expect Dr. Douglass would be in the vessel I believe I may say – his Character is gone with him I hope I may be forgiven, if I judge him wrongly –
I will turn to a more agreeable subject – We are now daily expecting the arrival of the Hibernia the William Shand brought us a letter from dear Edward which advised his having taken his passage in that first mentioned vessel, & that she was to sail on the 20th October – I need not say, how anxiously we are looking forward to this long expected meeting – Mr. and Mrs. Forbes tell me, that you my dear dear John told

[Crossed section:]

them you also thought of coming to see your Native land – I started with joyful surprize – at the thought – Edward is to tell us all. – I confine myself in this letter to facts as close as I can – by the Courier I hope to write you a long Epistle – the Competitor on board of which before our wool was sent sailed the 4th February – Mr & Mrs Field left the Colony in her – you will have had to wade through a vast heap of Letters and papers by that vessel – and again by the Ocean, these letters will vex & perplex you about the Land – but I hope it will all end well – as the redoubtable Major is set in motion in truth I wish your father & him could adjust matters, amicably – James sent in his card to the office on tuesday & wished to speak to him – but the man is so stubborn & mulish in his habits that there is no doing any thing with him, unless it be in the way of a Joke – he dearly loves a pun too – seriously – on account of many things, I wish he had not set himself so much against your father – indeed, I think

this same Douglass has been a principal cause, of the great disunion in the respectable part of the Community here – I think it probable be will call on you – with some fine tale he is highly theatrical and very sentimental – you will understand him though I am sure – I must hasten to finish off this Scrawl – I write by candle light, the family all in bed – this has been my excuse for a blundering letter – I shall send it to Sydney by the Stage Coach under cover to Mr. Icely requesting he will give it to the Commander & desire it may be forwarded by the first conveyance from Batavia – your Sister Elizabeth has been troubled with a little intermittent fever – She is better, and I hope will soon be restored to her usual standard of health – Emmeline is quite well –

Mr Bowman and Mary quite well & happy – they are both here at this time – The Doctor is going to visit some of the out stations – Mary remains with us the while
Your father has had better health & for a longer time together than I have known him to enjoy for a very long time – You will have learnt that we have had a scorching dry Summer – a few Showers which have lately fallen, has given us a little verdure but we want rain still, very much – the Lambing Season is about commencing – so that the being put in possession of the Camden Estate will be of great importance – I trust it will take place

without further delay – We are all fully sensible how much you have extended yourself for the benefit of your family – no one is more sensible of it than your father – I hope our Edward will arrive before the Courier sails – so that you may be acquainted with the good tidings – you ask me if the high Lands would be desirable at Camden? doubtless they would be – bad neighbours, would be a nuisance, none, but bad ones would take a Grant in such a situation – your father will write on this subject, when the one on hand is settled.
God bless & preserve you, my beloved son Prays
Your ever affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 68]

[For transcription see page 67.]

[Page 69]

[For transcription see page 67.]

[Page 70]

[For transcription see page 67.]

[Page 71]

3

No. 9

Parramatta 7th June 1824

My beloved Son/

I enclose you a letter addressed to me by a Mrs Marr who goes to England a passenger in the Midas with one of her Sons – [prospecting?] both to return again to this Country – The letter you will say is a curious production – Truly an original as is the writer – She is very desirous to see you, and will probably wait upon you at your Chambers. I shall therefore briefly tell you who she is, & sketch her Character

She is the foster Sister of the present Earl of Winshelsea [Winchelsea] – by whom she is still patronized her mother & father were very many years Servants in the family of the late Lady Charlotte Finch his Lordships Mother, the subject of my letter was born in the family – brought up in it

[Written upside down at the top of this page:]
Elizabeth has written an Envelop on Mrs Marrs letter & on another which is enclosed.

[Page 72]

and remained, until some unhappy occurrence led her astray – & she was tempted from one false step to another, which finally led to her being sent hither, a Convict. She came at the first Settlement with Governor Phillip – I remember her well, on my first arrival, I used to occasionally employ her in needle work. She was then rather pretty, very volatile, & good tempered married to a man named Needam Snellem, he died, her Second husband named Driver [John Driver] by whom she had several Children, also died – and she married a very decent Tradesman, named Henry Marr a clever person, and one of the steadiest [indecipherable] Dealers in Sydney – This is the Third trip the old Lady has made to England having been many years a fine person

[Elizabeth Needham nee Gore was convicted to 7 years’ transportation for stealing and arrived in New South Wales on the Lady Penrhyn in January 1788. She married William Snaleham or Snaillam, also a convict who arrived on the Scarborough in January 1788. Sources: List of First Fleet Convicts; NSW Births Deaths and Marriages, Historical Indexes.]

[Page 73]

She is very clever as a Trades woman & has a remarkably clear head – Mr Jones knows her well – She has lately buried her two Daughters, both of whom, were respectably married Grief on this account, and a letter, she tells me, She has lately received from “The Earl", induces her once more, to visit Old England – She leaves her Husband – Mr. Henry Marr to carry on business – with I believe one of her Sons - & some grandchildren they take charge of. – So much for Mrs. Marr – I should like Mr. [Salt or Tatt ?] to see her – if he should chance to be in Town – as this is a letter – distinct from colonial narrative, I shall take the opportunity of noticing in it our entire satisfaction in the choice of the various articles purchased by Mrs. Harris which we have

[Page 74]

received by Edward – every thing has been carefully put up, specifically marked for the purpose designed for – good in quality – and not we think over-charged. – It is of consequence, that what we have for our personal use – should be appropriate and of superior quality – we wear our things out – & therefore wear them long – we have no opportunity of changing often. – When Edward returns, he will be able to explain all this – at this distance from the mother country more articles of Shew are ridiculous – our Household Linen & Cloaths I contend, should be of good quality – both because they are better taken care of – are in the end, more useful, certainly more respectable – and in the object of packages & freight – cost no more, than Trash –

I want a supply of Table Linen & Napkins

[Page 75]

[This letter written and part then crossed at 90° to the original. Crossed section transcribed on page 78.]

7-6-24

[Note written upside down at the top of the page:]
NB. The List to which I allude has been since given to Mr. Murdoch –

Your father made out the accompanying List which was to have been given to Mr Murdoch – for the purpose of his obtaining them from Scotland – Edward however thinks they can be procured in London equally cheap – and stout & good – if such be the case, it is folly to incur obligation, and go out of our way for nothing – I should have written decidedly, for regular half yearly supplies – before now – but think I have been held back from [productive?] considerations – your dear father, likes to order and sometimes he exceeds in quantity, at one time – again for personal & Household supplies some female friend is necessary to select –

I do not doubt but that London is as fair, as most – The last Cambrick Muslins – we were greatly deceived in – Your Sisters made them up into Dresses – They washed to Pieces – immediately injured we suppose, in bleaching. –

June 29th.

[Page 76]

June 29th

The foregoing you will perceive, my dearest John was written three weeks ago. The “Midas" was then supposed to be going immediately to Sea – but from some appearances, there was cause to apprehend that the Oil casks were leaking, the Ship was therefore unladen & her whole cargo re examined which has caused her detention until now. Mr. Icely the owner, called yesterday & said she would positively sail the day after to-morrow. – your father was at Camden when I began this letter, he is now at home – Edward has been at Camden since Saturday week – James came here on Saturday – staid just to make up his and Edwards packet of letters for you, & set off back again this morning – Emmeline is at Sydney with Mary – we have had a letter from her this Evening. She seems quite pleased with the Miss Bannisters and writes

[Page 77]

that she “likes them better & better every time she sees them". – Elizabeth is purposing to go down to Sydney in the carriage to-morrow to take our letters & visit the Sisters – Mary being a little indisposed. – I know not what to say of the state of politics now – Mr. Forbes has been solicitous that the Governor should reside more at Sydney he has generally been here two days in the week – I do not think the family will remove – Lady Brisbane likes the quiet of Parramatta best – your father keeps quite aloof – and meddles not which is very satisfactory to us. –

You will be concerned to hear that poor Maria still continues to be an Invalid – I do not think her Complaint of a dangerous nature, but yet it confines her, and lately her sufferings have been exaggerated by an Erysepelas in her face this was supposed to be occasioned by a diseased

[Page 78]

tooth, which is now extracted. – She is very much better within these last two or three days –

I had some thoughts of writing to Mrs. King & perhaps I may yet do so – if not, by this Ship by the next – Mr. Icely saw Maria on Sunday – I was with her on friday – the enclosed note I recd. from her Sunday I was with her on friday – the enclosed note I recd. from her Sunday morning – I am sorry to say your father has felt deeply offended with Hannibal & Charles, on account of the foolishness of the latter – in expressing his embittered feelings towards Mr Barnard – and by the increased intimacy of Hannibal, with Mr Field after the breach between your father & him. – I have done all I could, to prevent these misunderstandings. – Mr Oxley has met your father again – they speak, and so forth –

I ought I believe to write a Congratulatory letter to Mr. Davidson, but as he has not written to us, I believe I must depute

[Crossed section from page 75:]

you to say all the [indecipherable] things that it is necessary to say upon these occasions – and seriously assure him we wish him & his Bride health and happiness –

Remember us kindly to Mr. [Locke?] – we are anxious to learn the result of the journey to London which he wished to take – in December last –

Our kind remembrances also to Mrs. Thompson – we hope to have good tidings of her Daughter –

God bless & preserve you, my beloved John
So prays your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 79]

[This letter written and part then crossed at 90° to the original. Crossed section transcribed on page 82.]

No 194

Tuesday night
Parramatta

June 1824

My dear James/

I have to thank you for your many agreeable communications, the last of which, we received last Evening from Govt. House “with Capn. Fennells compliments" – Griffin had just before arrived with the six Sheep safe – the Beef & Kangaroo were very acceptable. part of the former roasted & the latter made into soup – We had for our dinner on Sunday – Mr. Harrison dined with us, he came to Parramatta by the Coach and returned to Sydney by the same conveyance on Monday morning – Your father had a great deal of conversation with him – & thinks him sensible & [reflective?]. Capn. [Gillin?] came also to Parramatta, but having a Stranger with him, desired Mr. Harrison

[Page 80]

to offer that as an excuse for not calling here – the Governor has been poorly again, but we heard in answer to our enquiries to-day, that he was better. – your father has been sadly complaining for some days past – he went quite to bed on Saturday – about 3 o clock Major Evans & Mr. Bannister were announced he then arose dressed himself & came out – chatted an hour or two with them and was better. – great talk of a grand Ball to be given at Sydney on Thursday next by Sir John Jamison in compliment to Mrs Cox – much counselling & arguing amongst the Military as to the propriety of accepting the invitation – one hundred and fifty people invited – Mrs Abel to superintend the fitting up – and decor[ating]

[Page 81]

[decor]ating the apartments – it will of course be Ably performed – Major Evans gave me a most laughable account of an appeal made to him by Capn. Bishop Mr. Miller &c – as to what he “knew of the Knights Chamber" – the dismay depicted in the countenance of Capn. B – lest he should be obliged to relinquish the promised good Cheer – was very ludicrous – it seems however they have all conquered their scruples, excepting Col Balfour, & I suppose [My Ld. Even?] B – who I think is too prudent to [go?] – Capn. & Mrs Cox with the Knights paid a first visit to the Lethbridges last week to solicit their Company – They spent friday with us, as Edward will have told you. – We all rejoice to

[Page 82]

hear that Mr. Murdoch is so much better your father is quite pleased with your remembrance of Haling [?] – he would have Elizabeth instantly look if it was not the old English of to heal – we were rejoiced at dear Williams return – although himself a little disappointed – we hear from Mary & Emmeline every day – the latter is a very good correspondent – she desires her affectionate love to her three Brothers at Camden – I have had a debate with your father, whether you would or not hunt to-day – it has been very windy here, but we have had no rain, some showers fell last night. – I fear Edward will not see Camden to the best advantage on this visit – I hope

[Crossed section:]

you will have better weather for your Newcastle Expedition – Mary writes that Mr Bowman is coming to Parramatta – for a day – I suppose we shall then hear when he thinks of setting out.

It is reported that the Midas will Sail Sunday or Monday next – Miss Icely is at the Vineyard house I am happy to say is much better, as she writes me herself to-day. – With the united love of all here – to the Circle at Camden believe me to be
My dear James
Yr affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 83]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Pages 83 to 86 transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 10

4

Govt Hospital Sydney Decr. 16th 1826

My dearest John,

I am not a little mortified that a vessel the “Corsair" belonging to the House of “Aspinal & Browne" [Aspinall & Brown] sailed direct for England on the 5th of this month, without taking a single line from any of us – I was about to write the day before her departure – when the archdeacon came in & said he had learnt she would not sail for two or three days – he was therefore prevented from writing – by the extraordinary punctuality of the Commander who sailed on the day he advertised to do. – this has been the subject of a discussion in our news papers – & they even went so far to state that your father sat up two or three nights writing letters & statements which were dispatched by the “Corsair" – It is true your father did intend to write you a short letter – he had arrived from Parramatta a few days before, in very indifferent health and came to Sydney to-day the benefit of change – I am glad to say, he is better, still here & will remain until the latter end of the ensuing week –
James and Emmeline came to us the day before yesterday

leaving Elizabeth & Mrs. Lucas well at Parramatta they return to them this Evening – William paid us a visit for a few days last week, he is looking well and as usual cheerful – he is now amidst his duties, & various avocations at Camden – we had a letter from him yesterday – James who is writing at the same table with me, will perhaps tell you of our having no less than four Kings Ships here – the “Warspite" with Commander Sir James Brisbane & his family consisting of Lady B. two Miss Brisbanes and a son Lieut. Brisbane The Volage commanded by Capn. Dundas son of Lord Melville – The Success commanded by Capn. Stirling – and the “Fly" that has been several months in this Station commanded by Capn. Wetherall this last is dispatched to form settlements at King Georges Sound – and one at Western Port in Bass’s Straits – We have also a French ship the Astrolabe commanded by Capn. Jules D’Urville – they profess to be in search of objects of natural history – they

arrived soon after the Fly sailed to form the two settlements – the Astrolabe had visited each, and it was for some time believed here, that the French had been before us – and left some persons at each place – for the purpose of establishing settlements.
Whilst I was writing the foregoing Capn. Dundas called having just arrived from Parramatta. he accompanied the Archdeacon in his carriage thither yesterday dined & staid the night with him at the Cottage & returned in his own Boat to-day
It is now nine o clock. James & Emmeline left us at seven and are now I trust safe at home – your dear father is gone to Bed not in good spirits – I asked him whether he should write – his reply was I am not in spirits to write and I know not what to say he is suffering again from one of those fits of despondency which are sure to succeed extraordinary exertion and over excitement – we have looked for it – and the sudden depression in the value

of our produce – the gloomy accounts of the state of things in England and the perplexed state of affairs here – have united to depress his spirits – I am far otherwise unhappy then to see that he is in such a state of suffering – ever since poor Bannisters departure & indeed for some weeks previous he became low – & unwell – I trust a change will soon take place again for the better – he is relieved certainly since he came here & was well enough to dine at Govt. House on Wednesday last – when the Govr. & every one was very attentive – as he told me.
Our concerns as usual are proceeding quietly – thanks be to God and I believe as prosperously as may reasonably be expected – James wrote in great haste & told me he had not read over his letter he sealed it & dispatched it to Mr. Bunn to put on board the Regalia, for fear she might sail early in the morning – Mr. Bowman is

[Crossed section:]

writing at some length, I think to Mr. Buchanan – he sends the Gazettes & the Monitor – we do not send any papers by this opportunity – another will soon offer – I hope the Australia will arrive at least before another vessel sails for England – perhaps she is even now near at hand as the signal was hoisted at the south head for a vessel in sight – so that the Australia may appear in the morning –
James has been making a little tour into the Country in Company with Capn. Dundas Lt. Grey son of Lord Grey and the Archdeacon – they went first to Camden staid there a few days and then proceeded into Argyleshire and from thence to Bathurst – where letters addressed to Capn. Dundas announcing the dangerous state of health of the Commander Sir James Brisbane – caused him to leave Bathurst and make a very hasty journey back to Sydney – James

came back with Capn. Dundas – leaving Mr. Grey to follow at their leisure and the Archdeacon to compleat the objects of his journey – James was highly gratified with these two Gentlemen – and they appear to be no less pleased. – Sir James Brisbane – is quite given over by the faculty – they say he cannot survive much longer it is a singular circumstance – that he should have come here – and particularly distressing on account of his family – the Warspite and Volage are from India bound to Valpraiso [Valparaiso] – they have been here I think two months and since the first week the Commander has been confined to his Bed –
I need not say how most gratified we were at the news of dear Edward promotion – I should have

written to him, but I cannot tell how it is, that I have put off writing to the last minute – expecting every day the Australia – We received every thing safe he entrusted to the care of Capn. Wright tell him and that Major Macpherson is an especial favorite that he goes to Parramatta and comes here familiarly – he dined here three days ago and also Capn. Smith – I think the 39th will be a favorite Regt. here – as to the Militia which dear Edward speaks of – I do not think there is any prospect of its being formed –
Your sister Mary I am glad to say is quite well and your nephew Edward is a fine infant. The

Doctor is also very well. They desire their kindest remembrances – and now my beloved Son I shall conclude this [scattery?] incoherent scrawl for it ill agrees with my Eyes to write by candle light, and the confused way I am expressing myself in I fear can give you little pleasure or information – I only was anxious to assure you we are all well, and that all our affairs are so likewise – God grant that this may find you in health and also your dear Brother – we think of you continually believe me, ever to remain
My dearest John
Your Affectionate Mother
E. Macarthur

[Page 84]

[For transcription see page 83.]

[Page 85]

[For transcription see page 83.]

[Page 86]

[For transcription see page 83.]

[Page 87]

[Continuation of the letter beginning on page 83. This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script. Part of the page is missing; gaps indicated by ...]

Saturday night 10 o’clock
Decr 16th [In pencil:] 1826?

I cannot read my letter over it would distress my Eyes too much – therefore make allowances for lines & words left out –

It will be satisfactory to Mr. [indecipherable] to hear that George Jenkins is quite well. One of the Midshipmen of the Volage has been staying at the Cottage at Camden some days. The Honble – ... Ashley Son of Ld. Shaftesbury & Brother to the ... who lost his life fighting with Mr Wood – when he returned he came here & dined – told me he thought George Jenkins was most happy – & wished he could change places with him" – young Ashley talked to your father & gave such a picture of his feelings, & the miseries of the great – that it quite

[Crossed section:]

affected your father – he dislikes his profession and is I believe an intractible idle youth but without any vicious propensity – his conversation and observation are singular and extraordinary –

I shall hope to hear from Devonshire by the Australia –

[Page 88]

[Cover sheet and address.]

John Macarthur Esqr.
Barrister at Law
Lincolns Inn
London

[Page 89]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Pages 89 to 92 transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

X copied No 11

5

Gen Hospital Sydney
Sunday 17th Decr. 1826

My dearest Edward –

I wrote a most hurried letter to John yesterday & finished & sealed it up last night, without being able to read it over under the impression that the Regalia would sail very early this morning. My letter together with Mr. Bowmans packet was sent to the care of your old acquaintance Bunn to put on board. When we assembled to breakfast a message from Mr. Bunn – announced that the vessel would not sail before to-morrow morning. – I have therefore determined to scribble a letter to you – the aforesaid Mr Bunn (he wishes to drop the Captain being now an agent for the House of Buckles & Buchannan) is to dine here with Capn. Langdon who commands the Hugh Crawford. Mr. Macqueens ship I shall therefore prepare this to give into his charge this Evening – your letters & papers were all safely conveyed to us by Capn. Wright – your [indecipherable] the Larks – and every thing – two pair of Gold finches – the Seed &c – the Larks all died – and the [Hares?] I think were not embarked – I have seen Capn. Wright only once he has been involved in an unpleasant affair with an officer of the Buffs who was a passenger with him & consequently under his

command – he landed in arrest – a Court Martial has been sitting some time – first there was a Court of Enquiry – altogether this is an unpleasant affair, & has occupied the time & attention of Cap. Wright altogether –
Many thanks for your picture, it is an excellent likeness Major Macpherson was quite delighted with it – we see the Major frequently. Mr. Bowman is very much pleased with him, and solicitous to shew every attention to him and you know when he takes a liking it is a steady one – he has been several times at Parramatta – is going to Camden – when the weather is more temperate – Capn. Smith also we see – & Mr. Cok [Cook] & Mr. Innes – Major D’Arcy is stationed at Parramatta – James dined with Major M on Thursday & both your Brothers dined at their little Mess last week. The Officers of the Volage – are on very friendly terms with the 39th & exchange visits often you will see by my letter to John what a display of a fleet we have here, that the “Warspite

a noble 74 [guns] is commanded by Commodore Sir James Brisbane a Cousin of Sir Thomas – he poor man is dying – & never will in all human probability, resume the command of the Warspite himself & family now occupy apartments in the large House of Mr. Simeon Lord –
The Volage is commanded by a Son of Lord Melvilles Capn. Dundas – a fine frank Gentlemanly young man – one of the Lieutenants a Son of Lord Grey – one of the Midshipman a Son of Lord Shaftesbury – these gentlemen have been a good deal with the Archdeacon – Mr Cook is I believe intimate with the family of Earl Grey. & there is great attachment between Capn. Dundas & Lt. Grey – the latter I should say is very clever & he is very lively & good humoured. –
All this while my dearest Edward I have not congratulated you on your promotion – allow me to do so now. I hope the step gained will lead to future good – we are in the hands of providence – and I every day see more clearly the evil of being too anxious for the future – if I were to indulge the feeling

I could be in a degree miserable that you are not here in the 39th – I think the regt. will be a favorite one with the respectable part of the community, at least – The Buffs will soon move on to India – a vessel has been off the Heads, two days – the wind is contrary, it is ascertained to be the Woodford last from Hobart Town Lt. Meyrick is on board & has Letters for us, as John advises us, by the Speke. The Australia also is daily expected – the Speke made so quick a passage that she has outstripped all those other vessels that sailed long before –
You will perceive that I am still at Sydney – I have been sojourning here two months & yet I am not permitted to return The repairs at home were commenced with too much vigour – Too many workmen employed and too much ardent activity bestowed on that which could best advance slowly & step by step – whilst the family continued to occupy a part of the House – at length you father saw his error – discharged the greater

[Crossed section:]

part of the workmen – thereby renewed in the monthly expenditure & the repairs are still going on well – although slowly – I am told that if I return, your dear father will not proceed I have lived so long in a ruin of a Cottage that I think it best to keep stay where I am – until I have a Bedroom finished.
You will observe by my Letter to John, that your dear father has had a severe attack of his old tormenting complaint – with all the accustoming attendants of despondency and low spiritness – he has been at Sydney two or three weeks and is certainly better than when he came – he has had two or three invitations to dine at Govt. House – and on Wednesday last he did dine there with a party of Gentlemen – Chiefly Strangers Mrs Darling has not seen Ladies to dinner since her last confinement – She has Evening parties – to one of which I was a short time since. – I am thinking whether you will or will [not]

see Sir Thomas Brisbane – nothing can be greater than the Contrast between the two parties Sir Thomas & Genl. Darling – & quite as great in the Ladies. Mrs Darling is fond of Company & parties –
your Sister & your young Nephew Edward are well the little man has some teeth & is growing fast – The Doctor is well also and desires his kindest regards – the letter you wrote to him by Dr. Cochrane – it so happens, he never saw. Dr. C delivered it immediately after the ship came to anchor – Mr. Bowman was then on leave of absence for a month at Hunters River – we knowing who it came from opened the Letter, & as usual forwarded it on to Parramatta – from whence it was again forwarded on – to Camden – and to make a long tale short – it has never been returned – so that the Dr. has only heard of it – We did not get the packages entrusted to Capn. Wright for some days – your letters were in a Case – Capn. Wright made many apologies for the unavoidable detention –
James and Emmeline came to us

from Parramatta on Thursday to dinner – Mr. Bowman had invited Capn. Dundas Capn Stirling Mr Grey – the Archdeacon & to dinner the party altogether ten – yesterday Emmeline & her James returned to Parramatta – they set out at seven o clock – after we had dined we thought they would be at home to tea with Mrs. Lucas & Elizabeth. – The Archdeacon has hired Woolloomooloo and will remove so soon as the Miss Bannisters leave it They have at length wisely determined to go to Hobart Town to remain with or near the Pedders – They have evinced a strong desire to remain here – but Mr. & Mrs. Pedder have repeatedly written to them since their Brothers departure urging that they come to them and pointing out the impropriety of their present abode – Bannisters sudden departure – & the circumstances connected with it, were to me so unexpected and so sudden – that I think of it – as of a dream – poor

fellow – he had a thousand amiable qualities, which insensibly wound round the heart – but I apprehend he must be some how strangely & pitiably entangled in his circumstances by the imprudence of his late father – leaving his sisters had a strange appearance – Emmeline drinks tea with them on Friday – they never go out – but those who visited them before continue their attentions – both sisters are dreadfully embittered against the Colony – and against Mr. Forbes – they attribute their brothers removal to Mr. Forbes had I however known the sort of Letter he wrote to Ld. Bathurst requesting a Successor might be appointed, unless his Salary was doubled – I should have expected nothing less – than that he would be taken at his word – as it proved – he had succeeded in gaining confidence of the inhabitants – and was universally esteemed & respected –
When the Archdeacon removes to Woolloomooloo – we shall leave the Cottage vacant – Mrs. Lucas has

[Continued on page 93]

[Page 90]

[For transcription see page 89.]

[Page 91]

[For transcription see page 89.]

[Page 92]

[For transcription see page 89. Letter continues on page 93.]

[Page 93]

[Continuation of letter, written and then crossed at 90° to the original.]

17-12-26

determined on removing to it – The Archdeacon has planted and got the garden in good order – and Built Stabling & a Coach House – so that the little tenement will be tolerably compleat for our kind friends accommodation and be a pleasing auxiliary to our home establishment because Mrs Lucas will have no scruples to lodge Single young Gentlemen. Your Bed has still occupied a room there –
The little party of travellers your Brother James accompanied from Camden through Argyleshire & on to Bathurst, paid a visit on their way to your warm hearted friend MacAllister – they amused themselves in Shooting Hunting Kangaroo, and were much gratified by their tour. – The Sheep Shearing was compleated very quickly & in good time, the Wheat Harvest now is drawing to a close also – we have had an extraordinary continuance of severe drought & high Winds The fires have raged through the Country with a terrific violence – rarely witnessed & have burnt some

[Crossed section:]

of the Wheat Crops and very much of the pasturage Rain will soon restore the latter at this season of the year – and I believe the loss of grain by fires has not been extensive –
Capn. Coghill was here friday & yesterday he returned to Kirkham – I had an opportunity of writing to William by him – James has been very much away from William – on the Company’s affairs – our own – and one thing and another – George Jenkins is well – do not be vexed that your father, nor any other part of the family write There is another Ship will sail very soon – and they all look to receive the letters by the Australia & Woodford – I have let your father know I am writing – he only says “poor fellows"!! “What have I of a pleasing nature to write to them about? – this is disease, unquestionably. Colonel [Cameron?] has just called and Dr. Hammett Surgeon of the Volage they staid chatting some time – your father & Mr. Bowman had walked to Furness garden they are just returned – it is time to dress for dinner – I therefore subscribe myself my dear Edward
your ever affect Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 94]

[Cover sheet, written and part crossed at 90° to the original. Crossed section lines appear to be misaligned.]

Corrected

Mr. Bunn came to dinner & is gone I told him I was writing to you, he assured me, the Regalia would sail in the morning – we had also Capn. Langdon & Mr. Dawson who is here on the Company’s affairs. – he looks cheerful and well – & gives good account of his proceedings. – your old acquaintance the Balcombs are well – Mrs. B Mrs. Abel & Bessy are staying at Kirkham with Mrs. Oxley – Mr. Oxley is kept close at his Office – he complains bitterly – after all, I believe the [they] get through very little business – there is an immensity

[Crossed section:]

of Letter writing and a great deal of discontent – The Wits say “This is a Govt of Letters" – Adieu my Eyes ache once again

[Address line:]

Major MacArthur

[Page 95]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

No 11a

Monday morning Decr 18th 1826

My dearest John/

After all my hurry on Saturday – the Ship did not sail – Mr. Bunn who dined here yesterday assured me she will sail this morning about 10 o’clock – I enclose a Letter for Edward which I wrote yesterday – having crossed it I cannot reperuse it

I have just received a letter from James, by one of our Servants – the following is an Extract – Parramatta
“If the Regalia & your letter be stationary be good enough to mention to John – that Mrs. Lucas has drawn on time for £30 at thirty days sight in favor of Mr. Bowman – & that she has been prevented from writing by the [sudden] departure of the ship – she persuaded herself the Vessel [would] not sail before the day advertised in the newspapers

We arrived home safe & without any adventure, found all well – the archdeacon just gone, being tired of waiting for us. I write a line on business to my father who I hope continues better – I have a note from Wm. all well" –

Mr Bunn told me that Dr Wardle had sent an immense Budget of papers to you by the Regalia – so bulky, that the Capn. objected to take them free of costs – Our papers are at Parramatta, or I would have sent them that you might see the business that is made of the Case of two Soldiers

[Crossed section:]

Sudds & Thompson – the man Sudds who died was a Carpenter he had solicited his discharge – & tendered a large sum of money to procure it which was not allowed – it is said he was a man of unexceptionable character, and after the unhappy affair which convicted him he was literally broken hearted – you will see – it discussed with bitterness in the Australian – and disputed in the Gazette – I have no doubt it will appear in some of the English papers –

Capn. Langdon has sold the Merino Sheep he imported on the Hugh Crawford to Mr Jones for Eighteen pounds a head Mr. Dawson says the wool is far inferior to any of ours. –

Your father took a little walk yesterday round the Govt. Domain and looked at the Shipping in the Cove – he seemed better afterwards – he has slept better to-night – is not yet risen – the vessel for which a signal has been hoisted two days has not yet entered the Heads The wind is adverse – once again
I sign myself
Yr. affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 96]

[Address]

John Macarthur Esqr.
Barrister at Law
Lincolns Inn
London

[Page 97]

No 12

6

Monday night
8th. Janry. 1827.

My dear Elizabeth

The Archdeacon has sent to acquaint me he goes to Parramatta at six tomorrow, & will take any parcels, “but that the Seats are full" – meaning I conclude, that there is no room for persons –

I believe the contents of the parcel I sent by Watsford will have pretty well occupied you this Evening – as I sent for Watsford I told him it was letters, he would forward them immediately – I had the pleasure of giving him one also from his poor Mother – & John enclosed a letter also for Wayman?

You have all the letters, but those from John I will ask your father, if I may send them by the Archdeacon, he is in Bed & has been suffering very much to-day – and perhaps I may not be able to ask him

[Page 98]

in time, the general tenor is agreeable & lively – but these are chequered times – This will contest in the Douglass cause – in which we had in truth, nothing to do – has caused a world of trouble – no letters for dear Mrs. Lucas we shall have other Ships soon –

Doctor Macqueen has written a long letter to their agent MacIntyre – he called here to-day to show it to your father, it is full of the praises of John – there never was such another his fame in Bedfordshire is trumpetted far & near – the great family of Russel [Russell] have never been before defeated since the reign of Henry the Eighth!!! Macqueen made a present to John of a Draft for 300 Guineas – The Gentleman would not

[Page 99]

receive it – but tore it in pieces!!!

The Doctor is amazed at his independent liberality – he says the Election has cost him fifteen thousand pounds – but he does not care – dearly as he loves money – so much is his vanity – apparently gratified

John writes to his father, that Macqueen had presented him with 300 Guineas – but that as he knew he had expected a large sum he would not accept it – John can have no idea of the Doctor having written in such Enthusiastic terms to MacIntyre – See by Lady Copley’s letter of the feverish state of mind, she was in – Lord Lord!! These are the cares of the great, & the wealthy!! – Edward’s

[Page 100]

letters are like himself – I should like to see what is written to the other members –

I wrote to dear Mary to day in the present I have nothing particular to add for her information – and I hope some one will write to me this Evening – I am sadly vexed about the lost letter to Emmeline [asterisk; see footnote on page 101.] – on further application to [home?] he says he sent it by Mr. Beezly of Windsor [Charles Beasley?], who promised to leave it, at Nash’s – perhaps John Moore may trace it out – I will in future be more particular about letters – let Emmeline see this – I cannot very well write to her this Evening – Mr Dalton (Dawson?) is talking – and it is getting late – I send the little valise with some

[Page 101]

[This page has a few notations in pencil above words difficult to make out.]

linen – clean, of your Brothers – there is several articles in the wash now – which shall come hereafter – the the socks want mending – pray observe –

In a little parcel are 2 great Shirts – 2 [indecipherable] – 2 frocks – 2 night Caps for little Master & 2 pocket Handks. for Masters Mama – in case they run short – but Betty will be able to wash which is wanted I should hope – does [indecipherable] – and what says Mrs. Lucas –

The “Australia" is to proceed to Port Stephens [taking?] the miners & the Stock belonging to the Company She will proceed to morrow or next day.

I conclude William is still at home.
God bless you all ever your affect. mother
E. Macarthur

[Asterisk, and footnote in a different hand, relating to the previous page:]
A letter from our dear Mother to Emmeline containing a description of a dance at Govt. House given as a farewell to the officers of the Warspite & Volage –

[Page 102]

[Cover and address sheet with note. The lower panel to be read before the upper one.]

Please take no notice of any dissention on board the “Australia" – all is smoothed over – the Sheep are in beautiful condition, their wool is beautiful – the wool of the male sheep superb!!!

Miss MacArthur
Parramatta

Favored by the Archdeacon

[Page 103]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Pages 103 to 106 transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 13

Sydney March 4th 1827

My dearest Edward/

It was with great joy I received your most welcome packet by Charles MacArthur – he & his nephew James walked into the Hospital gate just as we had done dinner – Mr. Bowmans Horse was at the doors, on which he was about to take a ride to Parramatta, & Mary had suddenly risen from her chair to look out at the Dining room window, to see who rang the Bell – when she observed Charles & James MacArthur ascending the steps – you may judge of our pleasure & surprize when I tell you that we had no previous notice of the approach of a Ship from England – after mutual greetings, & some brief communications whilst Charles & James took refreshments, I hastily read your letters, selected what I thought best to forward to Parramatta by Mr. Bowman, who also charged himself with the office of communicating to Hannibal and Maria the arrival of their Brother & Son – & that they would be at the

Vineyard it was expected about nine o’clock
After the Doctors departure – Charles & James had to repair on board the Indus to collect some things to take with them – your dear sister Mary & myself quietly then perused the remainder of your letters most thankful we were, that your communications were of so pleasing a nature, for never did your poor father so much need distraction – he has for some months past given way to the most gloomy apprehensions – one of those peculiar & sudden alterations which we have before witnessed – this time twelvemonths he was in excellent health and in exceeding good spirits, but for the last four or five months quite the reverse has been the case. – that he suffers excessively and even more than we can well judge is certain but it is the mind preying upon the body, & disturbing its proper functions. – The depressed state of the markets in England & a very dry adverse

Season here have conspired to feed this melancholy he is however better, and I hope & pray he will continue to mend – he spent a month or more here lately to try the benefit of change –
I have the pleasure to say that your sisters & Brothers are all well – Elizh. Emmeline & Mrs. Lucas are at Parramatta – James & William at Camden – I am apprehensive your Brothers will not have timely notice to write as we were not apprized of any vessel being to Sail for England so soon. – I heard from Parramatta yesterday they said James was expected to come on from Camden, & should he arrive he will of course write – He wrote at great length to John & yourself by the Portland which conveyed Col Balfour & his Children & also Capn. & Mrs. Lockyer – Williams Letters were given to Dr. Nesbitt who went in the “Marquis of Huntly" in which vessel several Doctors took a passage your old acquaintance

Dr. Turner amongst the rest – The[y] never called on me that I heard of – both these ships sailed the second week in February – I trust John & yourself will receive all the letters safe – I did not myself write as James had said all that was to be said & as he wrote here – I could not add any thing of moment to his voluminous despatch & we had constantly persons calling on one account or another so that I kept myself disengaged to talk – which occasionally you know, Edward I am very fond of.
Capn. Crotty arrived in the Albion – I believe the same day that the Indus did – this packet by him was not delivered until a few days after Capn Smythe had accompanied James to Camden I was there when Capn. Crotty arrived – since his return, he has introduced Capn. Crotty to us. – Mr. Inglis from Canton has also been on a visit to Camden This gentleman will be known by name to our friend Davidson, he arrived at Canton shortly after Mr. Davidson

[Crossed section:]

quitted it – he is a very intelligent & Gentlemanly – he dined here on friday last, with the Archdeacon & an officer of the 40th – he seems to like the Country very much, This is his second visit – he has a Brother who has shares in the Van-diemens land Company – he very much approves of all he hears of the A A Company – Mr. Dawson is now here and Mr. Henderson also – the latter is busied in searching for Coals in the vicinity of Port Jackson having been unsuccessful in finding any in the neighbourhood of Port Stephens – Mr. Henderson showed me yesterday a fine specimen he found on Mr. John Blaxlands Estate near Parramatta he found some also on Mr. Marsdens just above Hewits Mill Dam – he says the vein must pass through our Land – I wish it may be discovered to do so – as it may render that coarse part of our Estate more

valuable near Duck River –
I have yet neglected, my dear Edward, to thank you for your very interesting journal – that & the Prints which you so judiciously collected are now on a table in the Drawing [room] beside me
It is Sunday, we have just had a visit from Mrs. Abel She generally comes in about once a week & chats with us – I told her I was writing to you – she desired to be remembered her father has been confined by Gout to the House for some weeks, her mother & Brothers are well – Mr. Bowman has just walked to see Mrs. Abel home – I fear Mr. Balcomb has entangled himself in debt – this is merely conjecture She has been amusing Mary & I with an account of two or three parties she has been at this week – one at Mrs. Jones’s a Ball & Supper – a strange mixture of finery – ostentation & vulgarity – according to her account

We have another Kings Ship arrived from Trincomole [Trincomalee] – The Rainbow commanded by the Honorable Capn. Rouse – a very old acquaintance of the Balcombs – I have not seen him yet – Mrs. Abel says he is exceedingly good humoured & I fancy joins with her in laughing at affectations – The Governor & all the family have been at Parramatta since friday week – they will return to Sydney some time in the ensuing week – as I shall hear from Parramatta again before I close this letter I shall only now say that your father received Charles with great [amiability?] – he has been several times at our house, & equally well received – your fathers feelings were much interested for Charles on account of the ill usage he had received from the Master of the Cumberland by leaving him & James behind – the Cumberland arrived about a fortnight before Charles – the whole family party directly went to the Vineyard – Maria had only been a few weeks

confined of a son the eighth child) when they arrived She bore the great accession to her family & her own disappointment very well
Mrs. King had but just quietly settled when she was brought to Bed of a seventh Son – so that when Charles & James arrived you may imagine the vineyard cottage was well peopled they must be as thick as hops – Mrs. King has seen my dear aged parent & gives a most flattering account of her good appearance & astonishing cheerfulness & activity – this to me, is a great consolation. – Dear Edward. I picture to myself your great consternation, when you received the intelligence of the intention of your father to return to England – My dear John – I trust it may not distract you – those sudden changes, & resolves – we none of us liked the thought – & were exceedingly pleased when he abandoned the idea – it made a great talk & a clatter here for a time – you perceive I still write from Sydney – it is not yet convenient for me to return home – the repairs which were commenced with too much vigour, could not proceed with a

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4.3.27

2

a velocity corresponding to your fathers wishes, he then began to tire & would stop the same & come here, stay a few weeks, & return to expedite the work – it is proceeding – and I have a prospect of being enabled to return with some degree of comfort soon – Mary took an opportunity of going to Parramatta with her little Edward whilst your father was staying here – so that the Sisters & Mrs. Lucas & the young heir, had the house to themselves – Mary staid nearly a month coming here to see us once in the time, & staying a night – She gives me a very good account of what the old habitation will be, when the projected additions are compleat – and these are in a state of forwardness, so that I hope they will proceed, however slowly. –
The Archdeacon has quitted the cottage & now resides at Woolloomoolloo – he took the furniture which the Bannisters left, at their own valuation (which by the by, was high enough) They took some things with them to Hobart Town sufficient to furnish a small cottage – I have had a few lines from Miss Bannister since they arrived at Hobart-town They declined residing with Mr. & Mrs. Pedder, but the

Cottage taken for them joins Mr. Pedders Garden – poor Bannister I profess I understand him not – nor how he has involved himself in embarrassments, I feel of a very serious nature I mean in a pecuniary sense I wish for his sake & his Sisters – it may not be so – when he was just in the midst of his correspondence with the Governor, & expecting to hear of a Successor being appointed at home – he made proposals for your Sister Emmeline to your father, by letter who very firmly in a reply, stated to Mr. B. his reasons for declining them – in which reasons Mr. B. in another letter, fully acquiesced. Your father was very much vexed, he consulted me, in fact we were all of one opinion – Mr. B. & Emmeline had never been thrown into each others Company nor could we discover the least partiality – more than of a very general nature – we none of us dropped the least hint to her – not thinking it necessary as Mr. Bannister was so soon to quit the Country – circumstances occurred which averted more vexatious feeling between the Govr. & Mr. B. & he suddenly determined to go by the first Ship which happened to be bound for Canton leaving his sisters behind. – Mr. & Mrs. Pedder (as

soon as they were apprized of their situation) wrote to them in the strongest terms to come to them, as being the only proper place for them to be – both Sisters seemed very unwilling to remove to Hobart Town – and Miss B made an appeal to your father for protection – which distressed him very much – she said she wished to hire a Cottage at Parramatta & that her Sister Harriot would go to the Pedders – I gave no encouragement to a scheme, which appeared to me so bold [odd?] and even impractical – and I really was very glad when they accepted of Mr. & Mrs. Pedders proposal – I cannot understand these very eccentric people – I should rejoice to hear that Bannister has extricated himself from his difficulties – for his own sake, as well as his Sisters – he had risen in the estimation of the people, generally, in this place – his manners being conciliatory – & his morals without stain – or even the imputation of any. – Many things have happened which Mr. Bannister predicted and the Governor seems to me, to be in difficulties very often. –
Mr. Dawson I think writes to the Directors, at all events a Box will be forwarded and the Newspapers in it, John & you will feel an interest in looking them over you

perceive the Australian is almost abusive to the Governor – they seem to be pretty quiet about the Company The Papers will shew of the seizure of a vessel by Sixty Prisoners who were in her sentenced to the penal settlement Norfolk Island – of her reception on arriving at New Zealand – by the Sisters [a whaler, The Sisters, captured the escaping mutineers in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand] – a great number of those unhappy persons are now under Sentence of Death. –
March 6th.
Charles MacArthur has just brought a note to me from your father & one from Elizabeth, he says “his back is looking much better" but he complains to me, and indeed the weather is so adverse, that he will not be much better until we have a favourable change – Charles tells me he went to Camden, from Westwood, on friday last, saw James & William well – the latter has been busy with his Vintage – you will hear of the fame of Camden grapes from the Lockyers & Col. Balfour should you see either of them I think William expects to make about 140 Gallons of wine – he sent some fine

[Crossed section:]

Grapes to Government House, the week before last – they were much admired & praised. – James & William know not of the sailing of this vessel – and your father cannot make an effort to write – The Australia began to take on wool to-day –
Mr. Bowman was embarked – he himself sailed for Newcastle to-day, & proceeds to visit his Farm having obtained from the Govr. three weeks leave of absence he went in the Lord Liverpool packet (not the one you sailed in from London to Ostend) taking with him Mr. Henderson who goes to Newcastle to examine the Coal Mines. Mr. Dawson remains here a few days longer he writes & sends a Box to the Directors, by this opportunity & intends returning to Port Stephens in a small vessel which has been purchased for the Company – from the Commander of the New Zealand Companys Ships Capn. Hood – They have been obliged to relinquish the undertaking altogether not having

been enabled from the hostility of the Natives to Establish themselves on any part of the Island. – The Wesleyan Missionaries also have been obliged to fly from these New Zealand Cannibals several families came to Port Jackson with Capn. Hood Mr. Marsden intends taking another trip – to try the effects of his presence amongst these savage warriors – there is still some families of the Church Missionary Society remaining at New Zealand. – they consider themselves in a very perilous situation – Capn. Rouse of His Majestys Ship Rainbow has offered to convey Mr. Marsden to New Zealand – which offer is accepted. Mr. Marsden is now in Sydney, and will make his arrangements for going before he returns to Parramatta
Mr. Bowman prepares to visit the Australian Agricultural Company Establishment at Port Stephens, before he returns to Sydney – I should very much like to go there myself – I have heard so favorable a description of

it – and from two views taken by the Surveyor Mr. Armstrong which are intended to be sent to the Directors I should think I have not heard it commended, more than it deserves – George Jenkins goes to Port Stephens with Mr. Dawson – he has been waiting at the Office in Sydney for this last fortnight – Mr. Dawson is very partial to George and I think he will do much better, at Port Stephens, than at Camden –
This, my dear Sons, you will say is a proper old womans gossiping letter – when I take up my pen, I know not when to have done when addressing those that are dear to me – The misfortune is that I feel I neglect to notice the things which it would be most acceptable to you to hear, and teaze you with a repetition of uninteresting matter. –
It is now Evening – your Sister Mary, her little Son Edwd

and myself are the sole occupants of this large House Charles takes up his abode at Mr. Icelys – as it is late I shall bid you good night – and add a line in the morning as I hear the vessel does not sail before 12 o’clock
March 7th.
The Archdeacon is gone to Parramatta this morning he set off from Woolloomoolloo before six o’clock and I was too late in dispatching a letter I had written to you by him to your father – he will breakfast at our House & probably dine also – so that he will have a little chat with the family at home –
William Campbell of Harrington Park departed this life, last week – he has caused your father a great deal of trouble, and all of us much anxiety to say nothing of the expence the vexatious Chancery Suit has occasioned. – poor misguided man, he has no benefit himself - & the grave has now closed on all –
I hear that the vessel is off & therefore I hastily subscribe myself my dearest Sons,
Yr. affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur
Mary sends her affect love

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x No. 15

8

March 1827?

My dearest John/

I have this moment closed a Letter addressed to you, altho the within is more immediately to your Brother Edward – it was intended to be put into the Companys Dispatch but Mr. Dawson has written to me to say “the Box is closed & sent off" – I scarcely know to whom my letter will be entrusted I request the assistant Surgeon here to give it to the Capn. or some one he knows Mr. Campbell the owner, lives at a considerable distance from the General Hospital. – Dr. Bowman sailed yesterday for Newcastle & Hunters River, he is going to visit his farming Establishment there, & will visit Port Stephens before he returns – his wool was put on board the “Australia" before he went ours is at Parramatta, I believe the whole ready for embarkation – You will receive no letters from any of the family but myself by this opportunity which was not known, but a few days since, & neither James not William can have been apprized of it
I have the pleasure to say all are in good health only that your father is suffering from one of

those periodical attacks of nervous depression & flying Gout – Charles came from Parramatta yesterday & said his uncle was looking much better – he was at Camden on friday last & saw James & Wm. quite well, the latter in the midst of his Vintage I think he makes this season 140 Gallons of Wine
the Archdeacon is gone to Parramatta this morning & will breakfast at our House he has written by the “Queen Charlotte" – the first country built vessel which has ever sailed for the parent Country She is freighted by the Elder Mr. Campbell, I am just told I shall be in time to send this to Mr. Campbell – the vessel has anchored off the Battery – my other letter containing two Sheets of paper is given to Capn. Moore the Commander. I trust this will find you and dear Edward well – I think of you continually – and shall be very glad to hear

your tour on the Continent has terminated pleasingly.
We have had most surprizing continuance of dry weather no rain of any consequence having fallen for many months notwithstanding the sheep continue to do well, all our young flocks & dry Sheep as they are termed have been detached into Argyleshire leaving only the Breeding flock at Camden – thousands of Acres of Grass has been destroyed by fires, so that the Country wears a melancholy aspect at present, 24 hours rain would cause an immediate change at this season, and clothe our parched land with Verdure. –
I believe Mr. Dawson has sent the Colonial newspapers by this conveyance – you will therefore have an opportunity of seeing them if you have a curiosity to do so The Governor is not spared by “The Australian – & Howes fulsomeness is as obnoxious as the abuse of the other. – Mr. W. Campbell the appellant in the Chancery Suit died last week – I know not how his affairs are left, in the hands of Mr. Dixon I suppose – what is his nephew doing? –
Pray

[Crossed section:]

remember me most kindly to Walter Davidson – I read Edwards letter respecting him with heart felt satisfaction
I seldom see Mr. Jones – he has lately had a severe illness and retired for some time with his family to Bayly Park which Estate he has purchased – they are now returned – I am sorry to say Mr. Oxley has been for some time in very bad health occasioned by a too close application to business & perhaps the consequence of former long journeyings – Mr. Bowman attended him here some weeks, he became better, & is now keeping quiet a little time at Kirkham – I see by a letter from William to Em that James had driven over for Mr. Oxley & brought him to see the Wine pressing, which William said astonished him very much, he remained until 6 o’clock in the Eveng a proof he was much recovered –
I think you will receive favorable accounts of the state of the Companys affairs – the Sheep and all the Stock

are doing well. The views of the Establishment which I mentioned in my other letter cannot I fear have been sent as they were taken to Parramatta to show your father & have not been retuned that I am aware –
Edward writes that Genl. Foveaux never fails in his enquiries for us, pray let him be told that we speak of him very often – he would not recognise Sydney now, it is such an altered place, full of strange faces – it is a place of wonderful resort sometimes we have three or four Ships arriving on the same day – from various quarters of the World. His Majestys Ship Rainbow commanded by the Honb. Rouse, has offered to convey Mr. Marsden to New Zealand – and I believe he accepts the offer & will go in a day or two – The Islands are described to be in a most hostile state –
I do not recollect, whether the death of poor Mrs. Campbell the Sister of Capn. P Campbell has been mentioned – she went off

after a short illness, at their residence near Prospect Hill. –
You will observe I still write from Sydney and perhaps you will be surprized to hear that I have not seen what is doing at Parramatta – your father commenced too vigorously – I am kept away because there is no Bedroom finished, which I could occupy with any comfort – the alterations are however, proceeding – all the family come here occasionally to visit me – your father was here for a month a short time since, Mary & I are going to persuade him to try the change of air again in Mr. Bowmans absence – there is a very worthy man at Parramatta that has charge of the Hospital there Dr. Anderson RN. he visits your father daily, & quite understands the nature of his complaints. –
Mary unites in love & every affectionate wish to yourself & Edward my dear John
Your ever affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur.

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[Address]

John MacArthur Esqr.
Barrister at Law
Lincolns Inn
London

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No 4

7

Sydney (Sunday) March 25th 1827

My beloved Sons/

I avail myself of the sailing of the Magnet, for England, to write a few lines to you – as I am assured, you have the same solicitude to hear frequently from us, that we so constantly feel to have intelligence from you – and although I know James will write by this conveyance, yet I cannot forbear sending a little scribble of my own – you will perceive I still write from Sydney – your dear Sister Mary her little Boy & myself are the sole inmates of the House at present Mr. Bowman having been absent nearly three weeks at Hunters River – we do not expect his return before the first week in April. – I have the pleasure to say we are all well, your father very much better than when I last wrote and therefore I include him in the well – he is at Parramatta and begins to interest himself a little in the Building again. James has been a good deal

at Sydney for the last week or two and Wm. who is now at Camden, has had the pleasure of his company three days last week – he came rather unwillingly, as a witness in the trial of Broadbears – unwillingly, because he was very busy & very usefully employed at Camden, & his testimony could be of no avail in the Cause –
Since my last letter by the Queen Charlotte, we have been favoured with refreshing rain which has given a spring to vegetation, and produced a supply of young grass for the Ewes & Lambs
a Letter from William written on Thursday gives a very satisfactory account of every thing at Camden, he says “The grass is growing rapidly and the Lambing has commenced very favorably" he sent some bulbs from his garden for Mrs. Macleay, which shews us he is busy amongst his plants – and from the cheerful

tenor of his letter, we may conclude he is happy in having returned to his usual occupations again where I trust his Brother will soon be enabled to join him – James has been detained at Sydney, chiefly in consequence of the action instituted by Broadbear & wife (late servants of the Female Orphan Institution) against the Parramatta Bench of Magistrates – this has been made quite a party & political business – and the prosecution a vehicle for most unqualified, and indecent abuse of the Archdeacon, and his friends. – as James will mention this affair much more to the purpose than I can –
I shall take no further notice than merely to say that I believe the Governor is excessively annoyed about it. – The “Australian" has lavished so much abuse against the Government, and made so free with the name of Colonel Dumareqs [Dumaresq] – that the latter called Dr. Wardell out on Monday last – I presume the breach in that quarter, cannot be repaired – so much the better – had there never been an intimacy, between them it might have been better still - the report now in circulation is that

Col. D. is going to England very soon –
The Govr. continues to devote himself with persevering assiduity to business – whether he does not encumber himself with too many minute details, is a question, but it is only fair to admit, it is well meant – the only recreation he takes is in journeying to & from Parramatta generally once, and sometimes twice, in a week – when there he is occupied with his papers, and seems never to move from the House – so that all the exercise he allows himself is the journey which he performs in a Chariot Mrs. Darling says his health suffers – she told me this on a little airing she took me, in her Barouche the week before last. –
Whilst I was writing the above, the Archdeacon called to enquire when I expected James to return whether to morrow morning, or Eveng? he Preached at the Church of St Phillips this morng & is returned to the afternoon Service at 3 o’clock St James’s Church, is the one we attend – it being much nearer & the Church more commodious – our friend is very low & dispirited, I endeavour’d to soothe his irritated feelings – yet I am very

[Crossed section:]

sensible, that he has been very ill used – and I believe through the manoevering of Mr. Forbes – former letters will have apprized you of the Archdeacon residing now near Sydney. –
Mr. Bowman proposes visiting the Companys Establishment at Port Stephens before he returns – Young Mr. Dawson came from thence a day or two since in the Cutter “Lambton" & reports all to be well, his uncle had returned from Sydney; before he left Port Stephens The Australia is preparing for sea – her late respectable commander poor Capn. Wilson is Dead – a person of very good character was just at the time disengaged and Mr. Scott lost no time in putting him in charge of the Vessel – our wool is not embarked – it is all ready & lodged at Parramatta – We shall anxiously expect your next letters my dear John & Edward I address this to both of you. Emmeline promised

she would write, I cannot persuade Elizabeth – I have urged her in vain, to write to Mrs. Plummer – perhaps she will by the Australia. –
In my last by the Queen Charlotte I thanked you my dear Edwd. for your most welcome letters by Charles MacArthur – your journal the Prints, & all your details, which were so very acceptable – Mr. Atkinson who arrived in the Cumberland (where Charles ought to have been) delivered a Clock for your father I think this was omitted to be acknowledged before. – Charles is now retired into Argyleshire and has taken Mr. Francis MacArthur with him James is placed at School with the Revd. Mr. Wilkinson, who resides in Parramatta – Mrs. Wilkinson is a Sister of Mrs. Wilton who is

expected – the Wilkinsons who are very respectable also are quite delighted at the prospect of having their friends here – it is to be hoped, they will like their situation, in the Orphan School – I would that respectable persons had been in charge of it when the Archdeacon arrived – what vexation & trouble would have been spared – that worthless man Walker, who was it seems a Jew and who is lately expelled from the Wesleyan Society in which he was a Minister – has insulted the Archdeacon so grossly, that I fear he will leave us – this indeed we shall regret, he possesses so many valuable and amiable qualities – his Clergy have become very much attached to him, even those who viewed his coming with a jealous Eye –
Mr. Marsden

is gone to New Zealand in the Rainbow – a Frigate commanded by the Honble. [dash] Rouse – from the hostility displayed by the New Zealanders the Company fitted out for that Settlement have thought it prudent to relinquish the Scheme – The Ship & the Artisans have come here – and many of the Missionary families left the Islands, and came to Sydney in the Rosanna with Cap Herd – Mr. Marsden is gone forth to enquire into the causes of these hostilities – and to see how these Gentlemen are circumstanced of the Church Missionary Society who have braved dangers and remained – Edward you will remember Otaheite John – he has lately been here with his New Zealand Wife & Son – looking very well they had been paying a visit to Taheite and were on their return to New Zealand - & seemed very

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No 16.

9

Parramatta May 31st 1828

My dearest Edward/

As William is writing to your Brother James I have sat down to address a few lines to you – not that I think it of any importance to which of my three dear Sons I address myself – but that I feel I can write more familiarly – & with a chance of being better understood, by those I have latest had the happiness of seeing – I had written a letter for the Albion to dear James but the Ship sailed quite unexpectedly & thereby disappointed many – Dr. Douglass with his family took his departure in her – which is the reason, people say, of the mystery. – as William has written all that is to be told I apprehend of consequence I shall confine my communications to the domestic circle. –
In the first place, I hope & pray this may find you, our dear John, & beloved James well – I trust your meeting has ben what we could have wished and not to dwell upon this tender subject – I shall tell you, that your three Sisters and William are now at Parramatta together with young Edward MacArthur – no inconsiderable

personage amongst us, I assure you, he really is a very fine boy, and just now is at a very engaging age. Mary has been staying with us ever since the Birthday – about five weeks since – your father at the same time returned again to Port Stephens – how long it will be necessary he should remain there I know not, I had a short letter from him last Eveng he seems to be in very good health and writes in cheerful spirits – his letters to me I am deterred from putting up on account of the enormous charge of Postage, I have heard John has had to pay at various times – I should really be very glad to know whether Letters put up as papers, cannot go in a Box (to the Company office for instance) without the risk of incurring a great expence. –
Dear William has just read to me what he has written his letter comprizes almost every thing there is to notice – and the recent death of

our old friend has caused such a shock of sadness to pass over our domestic circle, that I can scarcely muster up any thing worth writing. – Elizabeth & Mary are now walking out, the former is as, you may suppose, low – but she is endeavouring to exert herself – Emmeline has a Cold – which makes stooping painful or I would resign the pen to her. – our kind friend Mrs. Lucas is quite well, and in full activity to-day – it being Saturday she sleeps at the Cottage – which is really a very neat little abode – and never does she fail to notice the plantation of Roses at the Gate by the little bridge, when we walk that way together There is a Pine, & an Oak, on each side the little wicket beginning to be very conspicuous
We have got the Pond on this side of our Garden finished, it is half full of water & although at present a little muddy – we expect it to be clear & pellucid when rain comes – we have some native Cypresses and willows around

this Pond which are very appropriate & look well In the garden we have also a handsome piece of water – and if we are favored with rain, our Garden we hope will be very productive of good things soon. – the Corn you had the kindness to send us, collected in your last tour, has ripened very successfully we think it will be a great acquisition, has it perfects itself in so much less time than the Maize in general does – most of the seeds have also succeeded, the Pease are not yet ripened when they do you shall be told, if they are good.
Elizabeth interests herself about the Garden – but really we have had such a succession of untoward seasons, that she had almost given it up – she has a fine collection of Bulbs from the Cape, in addition to those you brought, the Archdeacon had a great variety which he had planted at the Cottage, some of them still remain there and a great portion have been removed into our Garden – amongst

[Crossed section:]

these is the celebrated Amaryllis Josephine – it bloomed last Season in great perfection – together with many others equally beautiful, and extraordinary.
All our friends at the Vineyard are well. Maria is in much better health than she has enjoyed for many years – she may be expected to add to their family a young son or daughter in the course of a few weeks – they are already eight in number. – Mrs. Lethbridge, Maria’s Sister, had the misfortune to lose her infant, this week our carriage conveyed the remains of the little creature yesterday to the Burial ground, at Parramatta – it was just five months old & had from its birth been very delicate. –
The Marsdens are all well – Mrs. M & one of her daughters spent the day here very lately – Charles Marsden is soon to be married to Miss E. Brabyn. The

young couple are to reside at a Farm on the South Creek Mrs. M does not seem quite satisfied with the match Mr. Marsden laughs and I conclude dislikes it not – Charles is a genteel looking young Man and has conducted himself very quietly and respectably. – I should be very glad, if Mrs. Marsden may be found to have a claim to the Estate of Sir Cloudesley Shovel
We are in daily expectation of arrivals from England, God grant us good news from dear dear John and your no less dear Self – it seems very long since we heard of you. – hoping as we all most fervently do, that your dear Brother James has safely arrived. The ample details he will have given to you – leave very little for us to say. – I shall therefore only add our united and most affectionate love to you all – & kind remembrances to our mutual friends – from
My dearest Edward
Yr ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur.

P.S. The Govr. has noticed the death of Mr. Oxley in a very handsome manner in a Govt. Order – Hannibal & William returned here on Thursday Eveng. from attending the funeral which took place at Sydney on Wednesday – Camden was the last place poor Oxley visited – poor fellow – on his death bed he admitted that God had given him an understanding and talents, which now he could only lament he had not made a better use of – he was resigned & in peace with the world – and I trust his errors will be forgiven by the Almighty – and forgotten by his acquaintance – or only remembered as a [beacon?] – William will miss him for a long time – to him, in particular, he was an amiable friend – James had sometimes business to transact which perhaps might occasionally cause asperity –

he will be quite prepared to hear of the event – as his case was pronounced to be a hopeless one for some time past –
Saturday 2 o clock
We are just told the Lion sailed this morning Should it be so – I shall be very much vexed and so will William – he has folded up his letter – and left me, saying he would cross over to the Vineyard as he wanted to speak to Dr. Cunningham who is there on a visit – I shall however send the letters to Sydney enclosed to Mr. Bowman by the Eveng. Coach – in hopes they will be in time –

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No 181

Camden Friday Morng.
Novr.
Nov. (1830?)

My dearest Elizabeth

All your various communications up to the time Mr. Koltz left Parramatta – I have to thank you for – they arrived in rapid succession – and we had hardly finished the discussion upon our packet and William set fort to overlook his out of door concerns – when on return something more would have arrived by Coach, Carriage, or Dray – I believe I have now spelled over quickly all the Letters, and begin to understand their contents, dear dear James, told much and how well he has written – & how gratifying & how much to the purpose is the letter of our beloved John, and

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dear sensitive, single hearted Edward how like himself – is his letter, his tokens of remembrance – all all of a piece – I must not indulge a train of thinking no wise healthy to the mind – and particularly on a decidedly rainy day again. –

Yesterday it was fair, & the people said it promised to continue so – I feared otherwise, from certain atmospheric influences upon my system – however after Dinner William & I determined on a Walk over the Stony range and through some pretty dry roads winding round the hills, and to return

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by the Vineyard – all this we accomplished and after staying and admiring the bunches of Grapes & the size of the Vine leaves – and questioning Georgy (Greek) upon two or three things connected with his charge, we descended the hill towards home, when at the Turnstile, we perceived a Stranger coming towards us, and Wm. presently anticipated, who it was – the greeting was quickly over – Lowick had administered the rites of Hospitality & the Stranger declared he had dined very amply – In the Pantry Macdonald was getting his dinner. – I left William & Mr. Koltz together to talk over the various interesting

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subjects of Sheep, wool & practices connected with Sheep farming – to us of so much importance – I joined but little in the conversation before tea-time – and then we chatted – read letters – &c &c and retired to Bed about 11. o’clock –

This morng. it again set into rain, William took Mr. Koltz into the wool house after breakfast he expresses himself well pleased with the wool there, say it is in a good state, & quite enough of value in it – he really appears to be what we could wish – & I am much pleased with his manners and anxiously hope he will prove useful

I have little to tell you in the way of adventures, for with the exception

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1830?

2.

of yesterday & the day before, I have not been out since the day I visited the Merino flocks – The Evening before last, I took a drive to the Garden, which having looked over – we proceeded on to Baragal [Barragal Lagoon], the road was rather wet & splashy – the long cut grass on either side of the road, wavering in the breeze, like a field of tall grain – here we came upon two beautiful Cock Pheasants – [diving? dancing?] through the grass – William (who was mounted upon Joey – Hyles drove me) – pursued them, they rose at length, but seemed to me to fly heavily, as if they were very fat, they were in their gayest

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plumage – apropos – of Pheasants, Lowick is quite doleful in consequence of the little success he is likely to have in rearing any this season – “the Thunder has spoiled the Eggs" – and the few that have produced birds, have been so tender, and delicate – that, to use his own words, he fears “They will come to nothing" this is attributable to the rain, & not to any want of care and attention – he has had great losses of Poultry – the Ducks are the young things, that seem to thrive best in this weather, “fine weather for Ducks" Eh

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It is a continuance of rain now, which really makes me nervous, & apprehensive but Gods will be done – it is not wise that we should repine. – William keeps up his spirits, wonderfully – and by constant employment, wards off Ennui. – the Garden has suffered by too much wet – but not materially – the Neriums are in beauty very full of large & beautiful flowers, & there is a very fine Iris – a dark blue or purple – much like the one just gone out of bloom, but larger, the Hydrangeas are exceedingly large, some Lilac – some blue & some pink of various tints I had no idea of their attaining such a size

[Page 130]

but the pride of the Garden just now is the Magnolia – it has been in flower a week, or ten days – the Bud is about the size of an Ostrich Egg pure white, when it expands, I know not what to compare it to, the petals are thick & resemble white Kid leather The scent is a combination of sweetness & fragrance – something like Essence of Lemon – Orange flower, & Bergamotte. – the flower closes at night, & expands again in the morning – William gathered a branch with a flower bud last week it kept alive several days & perfumed the Cottage –

[Page 131]

X No 17

10

Camden Friday (Nov. 1830?)

My dearest MacArthur

We had the pleasure to receive Mr. Koltz on our return from a little ramble, which we had been induced to take after dinner over the Stony range – and to return to take a look at the Vineyard, to observe how the vines looked after so much rain – we did not think Mr. Koltz would have made his way out so soon – however William was well pleased to see him – and they soon entered into interesting conversation concerning the wool – this morning, as nothing else was to be done – they have been examining what wool remains in the wool house unpacked Mr. Koltz seems to approve of its condition and general Character – the rain having

[Page 132]

again recommenced – there is little or nothing to be done. Mr. Koltz appears all that you say – and I hope he will prove a valuable acquisition to this Establishment – and relieve our dear William from some portion of his cares.

I have read all the English letters – which cost me a great application of Eye sight – I could not get through them at all, last night. – our dear & beloved sons – their images seemed to hover round me, when I retired to rest. God bless them – and strengthen them in those virtuous dispositions and honorable qualities, which you have impressed upon their minds & at an early age, imparted to them by example

[Page 133]

I hope dear James is on his way out by this time. – Johns letter to his Sister tho’ short is full of information – he seems to think the affairs of England in a very unsettled state, I perceive. – I hope you have recovered from the oppression you was suffering from yesterday – I had something of it myself – and I expected from my feelings, that a change again in the weather was about to take place – we had a great deal of lightening last night. –

Many thanks for your offer of sending Macdonald up with the new Carriage for my accommodation – if it would please God to let us have fair & somewhat setled weather again – I should indeed be very glad to have it here

[Page 134]

and I see no reason – why Mary & Edward might not in that case, come in it –

We expect Frederic will return from Argyle as soon as the weather holds up. he will cheerfully go down to Escort her – and Hyles can be in attendance also – I should like her to come, whilst I am here – When our dear James returns the little Cottage will be pretty well occupied. – William will I dare say write and tell you that all here is well as can be expected – I have written a Gossipping letter to Elizabeth & must write a line or two to Em [Emmeline]

Believe me to be My dearest MacArthur
Yr. ever affect. Wife
E. MacArthur

[Page 135]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script; part crossed through and indecipherable. Crossed section transcribed on page 138.]

No 18

Tuesday 4. o’clock

1830?

My dear Elizabeth

I should have written to you by Irby – but poor Frederick was so overcome & exhausted last night that he quite forgot to give me your note, it was after Irby Johns departure that F brought it me from the Cottage – dear dear James slept in the little Front Room – [sentence crossed out] – Frederick came about 10 & we were not

[Note at bottom of page:]
he took letters fm. us respecting Mr. B

[Page 136]

a little rejoiced at the good tidings he brought – which would relieve our dear Mary and Mr. Bowman from present plague & embarrassment – from Vagabonds – let us forget it – & turn to other things – We sat up late last night – up early again this morning. William came soon after we had breakfasted Hannibal & Dr. Fairfowl accompanied him from Camden Hyles & Boyd – Mr. Marsden

[Page 137]

has been here to see James & looks pleased & happy –

Jane is sending you something which she thinks you may want

Thank God your dear father is calm, I wish we were altogether but perhaps it would be too much for me – indeed I am ever glad the Brothers are going to Sydney together this Eveng

I send you Edwards Letter to me – a long one to you enclosed – Maria came over this morning – & behaved

[Page 138]

very well – both Mr. & Mrs. Lethbridge have written & many towns folks have just come to have a peek at Mr. James – I shall be on the look out for you tomorrow Eveng – at best we shall see or hear from you – love to Mary dear Mr. B & kisses to my Boy – & little Master who is to be my Boy when he knows me better.

Dear James is a little tired he has had so many questions

[Continued on page 135, crossed section:]

to answer & so many things to read and talk of – It is dinner time, I conclude therefore in haste
Yr. affect, Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 139]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. First four pages transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 51

Camden Decr. 27th 1830

My beloved Edward/

I know it will give you pleasure, additional I should have said, to receive a letter from me, written from hence. I have been staying here with William, & Frederick Thompson nearly two months, and I expect it will be two or three weeks more before I shall make up my mind to return to Parramatta so well am I pleased with my sojourn here and so much has my health been benefitted by the change
I cannot tell you how delighted I have been, with the wonderful improvement I daily discover – not in a fine House, mind, for the same little Cottage is still all the residence – neatly kept – but it is the solid improvements, I see in every part of the Estate, I have as yet visited – such as will be infinitely more striking and imposing to the Eyes of a Stranger some years hence, than now – but to me, they are so apparent where so ever I bend my steps, that I cannot but feel astonished at the persevering industry of your Brother William who has so beneficially devoted his time, and been so successful in planting and propagating – to a very great extent – Trees – plants – and flowers, from almost every part of the world. – It would delight you to observe the care he has taken of every thing introduced by yourself – and such I assure you, make no inconsiderable figure in the Garden and Plantations and it is with sweet recollections, as we pass each Tree

or flower of yours – that we converse of you , of John and the other dear Absentee – now we conclude on his voyage of return. – We had flattered ourselves, that you dear Edward, would have accompanied your Brother and it is with reluctance, we forego this hope – but I forbear to enlarge on this topic, at present – and only add that we should have rejoiced to have welcomed you home again.
I write this to you by Dr. Cooke, who is known to you, he paid us a visit here last week – together with Mr. Bowman and a Dr. Roberts – they staid two nights, and seemed very well pleased – the weather was warm – and William very busy with Sheep Shearing & Harvesting – the former operation has been protracted to an unusually late period on account of a succession of rainy weather, by which the River has kept at a height, which prevented the Sheep from being washed – the last fortnight has been propitious, and I believe this day finishes the Shearing of the grown Sheep – to morrow the Shearers commence with the Lambs – you will be glad to learn that William is pleased with Mr. Koltz – his abilities as a wool sorter, will be applied to a good portion of the Wool of the present year – fifty Bales or more were packed before his arrival – these of course will not be medled with – Mr. Koltz is very

unobtrusive and modest – he seems very much pleased with the Wool, and very much surprized at its uniform good Character – indeed Edward you would not be a little surprized to see the Wool House, just now – every bin, full up to the beams with fleeces, even to crowding – all evenly and nicely piled – and covered with Cloths, to prevent dust from soiling its present purity of appearance there is a very manifest improvement in the Wool – which you would not fail to discover. – this is a source of solid satisfaction to us all – for which and for many other blessings, my heart dilates, with thankfulness to Almighty God – the giver of all good.
I am not aware whether any part of the family will write by Dr. Cook, but myself – your father writes to John by same ship about the Ensurance for the Wool, I heard from Parramatta on friday last all the dear Circle there was well – excepting that your father is low and complaining – Frederick Thompson is now at Parramatta he went there last Wednesday – by a communication from Mary – I find he was at Sydney on friday – most likely he will return here this Eveng or tomorrow he is quite well and but lately returned from Argyle where he was staying with our friend Strathaird and a week or two with Hannibal and Maria at their residence at Arthursleigh – near the Wollondilly

you could not expect that Maria would undertake such a journey. I believe one great inducement was my being here, she staid here a week on her way, being greatly detained by rain – the party consisted of Hannibal Maria James (who is becoming a fine young man) Charles – George and the Infant Arthur & nurse – we made it out very well were very merry – the Cottage pretty full, as you may guess & expect the return of the party next Tuesday – I have had several letters from Maria – expressing much pleasure in every thing around here. –
since my stay here we have had several visitors – of the number Walter Davidsons relative Mr. Walter Mathieson, & his Canton friend Mr. Dent – both William and myself were glad to shew them all the civilities we could and they both promise to come again – We have also had the Brigade Major Col. Snodgrass – well known in Peninsular history – and Mr. Cotton the Collector of Customs – and we expected a visit from your old friend Colonel Lindsay accompanied by Capn. Forbes of the 39th they had been making a little tour and by some mishap they lost their way got benighted it poured with rain, & the poor Colonel had to sit in the Bush all night under the Shelter of his Umbrella wet and comfortless – in the morning

[Crossed section:]

they made their way, to the abode of the young Mr. McLeays – where they refreshed themselves & returned to Sydney –
apropos, these young McLeays are very agreeable neighbours to William. They come here frequently – having been well educated and really are well conducted – lively and conversant with the manners of the times, their Society tends to enliven the atmosphere around Camden – where the topics, of the day are brought forward in an agreeable manner – from their fathers situation as Colonial Secretary – and the Correspondence with their Sisters – they hear early of all English intelligence – one of these Sisters is lately married to Capn. William Dumaresq – another about twelvemonths since to Major Innes – him you will remember. – Mrs. Colonel Dumaresq has two children – She appears to me to be but little adapted for the life of a Setler in New So Wales – gentle & good natured – I should think her – I believe the Colonel does not take so high a Standard in his Estimate of fortune to be acquired here – he has thrown away a great deal of money, I believe and secured very little of comfort –
I have run away from the subject of the Macleays, before I have quite done with it – Mr. George Macleay the elder of the Brothers in this Country – and who is known to your friend Major Williams accompanied Capn. Sturt also an acquaintance of yours – on a long tour into the interior – they were absent I believe six months or more discovered Rivers &c. &c – all which you will read in the Gazettes long since – Now the younger Brother James is going an interesting long voyage – The Comet a Kings Ship sails from hence to Pitcairn Island for the purpose of removing the Islanders to Otaheiti – another Vessel goes in Company to assist in the removal of these, as yet, innocent and happy young people – Mr. James Mcleay

and Capn. Walpole of the 39th go in the Comet as a little voyage of Curiosity & amusement – I have not heard, whether the patriarch old Adam – was alive when the Island was visited last – he certainly must be “Christian". The young man “Friday October Christian" must now have reached middle Age – I feel more than common interest in these people – considering Blighs Tyranny as the cause of their very being – or at least of their being in such a situation –
We have had hitherto a delightful Summer – seasonable rains and abundance of grass The stock are all in fine condition – but no demand for animal food – the prices so low, that it is a marvel that it pays for taking to market – the Harvest promises to be an abundant one, and the Maize Crop is equally promising to be productive – I will not attempt to give any description of the Garden – which you saw begin – it is now finished, and in the nicest possible order – enriched with the finest fruit Trees, and adorned with the choicest flowers, the walks so well drained & [gravelled] that you may walk in the garden immediately after very heavy rain, without soiling your Shoes – something rare – in this new Country –
Mr. MacAlister has not descended from the highland since I have been at Camden – William had a letter from him a few days since in which he promises us a visit soon – poor fellow, he has had a narrow escape in a Skirmish with a desperate set of Bush rangers in which he was wounded, but not severely – one of the mounted police under his command was also wounded – and a Constable

severely so – the desperados were all finally Captured – tried at Bathurst and Executed – there are a few men out here committing depredations on the most frequented roads, in broad and open day light – our Government is so feeble, and inefficient – you would hardly credit that such things could be done with impunity – for any length of time. –
I have broken off to say that Frederick Thompson arrived from Parramatta about 2 O’Clock – left all well there, and communicates the pleasing intelligence of the arrival of our friend Dr. Fairfowl whom Frederick has seen, and who gives most satisfactory accounts of you all – as soon as the Doctor gets released from his charge in the Ship he will come to Camden – we have received two Letters from James, by two different Ships – the latest dated the 12th of August wherein he tells us of his having taken his passage in the Sovereign and of accompanying John to Paris – previous to his Embarkation to return
Another Revolution in France! I can scarce say I am surprized at it – Spain & Portugal next – I think will follow the example – What an eventful life has that of the Duke of Orleans been – him now called to the throne of France – I have read so many of the works of the late Madame de Genlis that the history of the Orleans family is familiar to me. – and now my dear dear Edward let me thank you for your kind communications, entrusted to Mr. Koltz – for the valuable Book – and the pens

with one of which I am now writing – whilst the paper which enrolled them – lies before me with your caution, that they should be “carefully wiped" – so like yourself. all your gifts prove useful, and indeed this is particularly so – I cannot see to mend a pen, and this has frequently prevented me from writing –
Fredericks account of your father, is that he is still very low – “wonders what takes John to Paris at this agitated time" – and more at a loss why James should accompany him – he goes not out – but yet I am convinced it is not bodily ailment – altogether Hypochondria –
We congratulate you on your appointment – your friend the Marquis certainly has shown you very marked attentions I should think him a kind and good man – in my early days I have heard the beauty of his Mother celebrated – if she was, as I believe – Lady Charlotte Bertie – Did you ever hear the Marquis – or his Mother, the Dowager Marchioness – mention Lieut Forster – whom his Lordships aunt – Mrs. Lisle took an interest in? This Mr. Forster married a Sister of Mrs. Abbotts – he commanded a packet at Falmouth – and was living in great comfort with his family when I last heard of them –
I was very sorry to hear so poor an account of the health od Mrs. Davidson, her Brother looks another person since he came to Port Jackson Mr. MacQueen retires from Parliament and goes abroad I suppose to nurse his funds – a miserable business he has made of his Speculations in New South Wales.

[Continued on page 143.]

[Page 140]

[For transcription see page 139.]

[Page 141]

[For transcription see page 139.]

[Page 142]

[For transcription see page 139.]

[Page 143]

[Continuation of the letter transcribed on page 139, written and then crossed at 90° to the original script. The top of the page is slightly damaged. Missing words indicated by ...]

21 [27] 12. 30

... each but feel concerned, at these failures, they are com ... ed, rashly and unadvisedly, and upon a scale that cannot ...

I shall say nothing of Parramatta – as I find by a ... from Emmeline, brought by Frederick, that she has written ... you – William is too much occupied, and been too busy to write – you will have a letter from him by the wool ship. I trust you will have welcomed to England our dear kindhearted friend T H Scott – I had fully purposed writing to him fifty times – and as often my intention has been put aside, by an unaccountable failing – if I could once hear, he was at home I could write to him with ease – he has caused a great blank in our society – I am gratified to find you occasionally see Mr. Bigge – am pleased with your mention of Genl. Foveaux & in short am pleased with all your communications –

Dear Johns letter to his Sister, by Mr. Koltz – was a treasure – your father was gratified – he wrote to tell me so. Your warm hearted friend MacAlister will scream with joy at your remembrance of him – when he gets the Pocket Book – a number of the Old Servants enquire for you amongst the number T. Herbert who has been in our Service 28 years – and now my beloved Edward I shall conclude with ardent prayers for the health prosperity of yourself and our beloved John – to whom I do not write because this letter

[Crossed section:]

letter will answer the same purpose of assurances that you ... dear as ever – to me, though so long separated. –

William and Frederick are out walking to the Shearing Shed or Wool House – I may add the kind and affectionate remembrances of both –

This goes to Parramatta by a Coach early in the morning to be forwarded from thence to Sydney – it is nearly dark – and I cannot write by Candle light – therefore I conclude myself
My dearest Edward
yr. affect. mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 144]

[Address.]

Major MacArthur
John MacArthur Esqr
Barrister at Law
Lincolns Field
London

Favored by Dr. Cook

[Page 145]

No 54

Parramatta Feby 19th 1831

My beloved Sons

I know you will excuse my not addressing a separate letter to each of you – to you dear Edward I last wrote from Camden, and entrusted my letter to the care of Dr. Cook – I returned from thence last week – after a three months sojourn with William, during his busy season of Sheep Shearing and Harvesting. – Frederic Thompson accompanied me home in the new Carriage, which I found very commodious – you may imagine, I was welcomed with great joy after such an absence, an I had the pleasure to find all here in tolerable health – your father looking well, but still labouring under great depression of spirits – yet cheered with the idea of the hoped for near approach of dear James, we have since recd. indirect intelligence of the arrival of the Sovereign at

[Page 146]

Hobart Town – so that I trust the delay there will not be of long duration – and that our traveller will soon arrive at Sydney, where Mary and Mr. Bowman are anxiously on the look out for him – They came to Parramatta yesterday morning to breakfast & returned in the Evening Frederic T went to Sydney with them, for the purpose of arranging the Bills of Lading of the Wool &c which is shipped in the Royal Admiral

William cannot conveniently leave Camden before the middle of next week, and the Capn. and agent of the Ship profess that she is positively to sail on Sunday, a considerable portion of our wool could not be got ready in time before they had filled up the Ship. This your father says shall be kept for the Sovereign

William sent his letters from Camden yesterday

[Page 147]

and your father will have me forward them to Sydney without delay – I see he has written to our beloved friend – our late Archdeacon – I also wished to have written, but some how, I cannot just now

his letter to William from the Cape gives us at length, hopes that ere this he has sat down quietly in old England once more – Emmeline wrote to him by Dr. Cook. – and I hope to write to him very soon and tell him, how William and I thought of him & talked of him at Camden, where there were so many of the Trees and Plants he bestowed on the Garden – They have due honor done to them, and are in high production – all your introductions dearest Edward are fondly cherished by your Brother, and placed in the most advantageous situations in the Garden – I must not enlarge – your father hurries me, I will

[Page 148]

put up Williams notes from Camden, as I believe there will be no extraordinary expence of postage being put up as Ships papers – Pray take care to forward the letter for Mrs. Koltz. – Elizabeth Emmeline & Mrs. Lucas unite in affectionate love & good wishes with
your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

We intend to write long Letters by the return of Dr. Fairfowl – dearest John – it is long since I had a letter from you – I well know the arduous tasks you have to get through – I pray God to give you success equal to your application – our momentary – I may say – expectation of hearing something of James incapacitates me from writing with any consistency – I hope all is well in Devonshire

[Page 149]

The Eamont not arrived - nor those Letters Edward says he wrote from Cholmondly Castle – Dear Wm
Yr. affect Mother
E M

[Address section; written and crossed at 90°:]

1/6 BB&B

Earl of Liverpool
John MacArthur
Parramatta
New South Wales
26th Novr 1830

[Crossed section:]
Recd. Tuesday Eveng
April 5th by
The Lord Liverpool
sailed from England 3d Decr 1830

[Pencil note:]
Ap. 5t. 1831

[Page 150]

No 178

Frederick Thompson’s Friends are all well. Mrs. [Humprey?] & Mrs. Cardale have both had daughters –

[Note in pencil:] From John Macarthur Jr. Nov. 1830

[Page 151]

No. 55

Parramatta Saturday
23d April 1831 (31)

My dearest Edward

Again I take up my pen to address a few lines to you, well knowing my scribble will be welcome to you. – I know not who has written nor who intends to write, they are all talking about it, and wandering about discussing on the subject – and on the weather, we have had a week of almost incessant rain – it commenced on Saturday last – & now it is Saturday again – the eighth day – we have had a flood – at Camden – and two here neither of them particularly destructive that I have learnt – & upon the whole it is to be hoped – the continued rain will be beneficial – We must, however, expect heavy losses amongst our flocks and particularly in the breeding ewes, as it is the season of Lambing. – My last letter

[Page 152]

was committed to the care of Dr. Cook, written at Camden & dated I think the latter end of November. This is to be conveyed by our old friend Dr. Fairfowl – of whom I took leave yesterday – he will endeavour to see you as soon as possible, after his arrival, he came to visit William & myself at Camden, & staid some days with us, this was previous to the return of our dear James – indeed I had but just setled myself at home after a fifteen weeks absence, before this joyful event – the detail of which I doubt not, he has himself, given you and therefore I shall only say – that he came a week sooner, than we had expected – which was doubly gratifying and we were spared the anxiety of daily expectation – he looked uncommonly well

[Page 153]

is certainly much improved – and having made two or three trips to Camden – is now occupied in the usual way – that it seems, as if he had not been absent from us – judge, dearest Edward, if your poor Mother is not thankful to God for this blessing! – James came from Camden on Thursday, on Horseback in the midst of the rain, leaving William & Frederick Thompson there, quite well – the latter was to have accompanied James, having accepted the Invitation to a Ball & supper given at Govt. House last Eveng. to celebrate his Majestys Birth-day. The weather caused us all to decline. – Your father at all events would not have gone, he has not been from home for many months I do not think, his health is bad – he

[Page 154]

suffers severe Rheumatic pains, occasionally and particularly when the weather indicates change – but it is too much deep thinking and great solicitude as to coming events that disturb his mind – the depression of Stock – and our total failure, in being enabled to effect any Sales – either of Horn Cattle – Sheep – or Horses – may be considered a sufficient cause for discomfiture even to a mind more chearfully disposed. – I endeavour to tranquillize my own, & those of the younger part of our family around me by comparing our circumstances, with those of others – and adverting to the accounts from England, the prospects appear not to be bright. – your father, is exceedingly anxious for intelligence – of how the [New?] Administration of Lord Grey & Lord Brougham

[Page 155]

2

will go on – of the latter, he has an ill opinion. – we are very thankful, that you dear Edward, have an occupation – although not very profitable, yet is it an honorable and I should think an agreeable one to you having been favoured with the friendship of the Marquis of Cholmondeley for so long a time. – the situation enables you to do some kind offices, I perceive, to your friends – by them perhaps more valued, & feeling themselves more flattered by the distinction – than they would be to receive a costly present. – thank you for the packet of Tickets – for the porogation [prorogation] of Parliament – by his present Majesty King William – & for the Coronation ones for poor King George The 4th!! The looking over the names of on the former amused us – I suppose there will be a Coronation

[Page 156]

of their present Majesties – James and your Sisters, laugh at me – and say I am looking out for Velvet & Trappings!!

We are in daily expectation of the arrival of the Eamont – by which you have apprized us, you have written – we always wish for the long coming letters, even though we are aware, they are of the same, on an earlier date, than some we have received. –

James tells me, you had doubts whether I had ever written to Lady Brisbane, since receiving the Shawl, and those other marks of hers and Miss Makdougalls kind recollection I assure you, I wrote, almost immediately afterwards – Emmeline at the time – was at Camden – Elizabeth also wrote – but whether by the same vessel, I cannot now

[Page 157]

say – neither am I certain whether we sent the Letters by one of the Scotch Companys Ships – or by a Liverpool Ship – Emmeline now however writes via London – fearing there may have been a mis carriage of some of our former Letters –

It gave us great pleasure to hear of the safe arrival of Capn. King & his Son Phillip I sincerely congratulate Mrs. King on that joyful Event – and also on the recovery of her Daughter Mrs. Copland Lethbridge from a very dangerous illness – her life was altogether despaired of by her family and medical attendants – who were unremitting in their attention – She is now considered to be quite out of danger – James and Emmeline paid Mrs. P. King & her a visit at the South Creek a short time since

[Page 158]

Mr. Lethbridge is now in Parramatta, preparing the Cottage for the reception of his wife & Mrs. King – who will also be in need of some change after a close attendance to a Sick Bed

Maria continues to enjoy good health – the whole family are well – a little low at parting with Charles – the second son – 11 years of age – and a fine Boy – he goes under the care of Dr. Fairfowl – and is to sojourn with his relations at Plymouth, the DelaCombs & Hannibals Sisters. – you may be assured I was very glad that James returned to us a Bachelor – indeed – dear Edward, these are not marrying times – for persons possessing much sensibility – or reflection – for those of hard materials – that can brow beat – and elbow their way – or that can labour to get their own living – the affair is somewhat different

[Page 159]

3

Rumour acquaints us – that we are to have a new Governor soon – all the Dumaresqs are married The Capn. that was – married one of the Miss MacLeays they are going forthwith to Hunters River to abide – The Lady is much pitied by those who know her well – Capn. D. is universally disliked We have seen the Colonel several times lately I like Mrs. Col Dumaresq – James says, she is much altered – the Govr. & Mrs. Darling called about three weeks since. They were very kind & seemingly friendly – their Son Frederick went, under the care of Lieut de la Condamine to England, a short time ago. – The family are expected to reside at Parramatta during the Winter months, when we may have more intercours – I have not for a long time been at Sydney – Mr. Bowman & Mary, pay us visits of a day, at intervals of a week or two. they have a neat little

[Page 160]

Phaeton of their own – Joseph Bigge who was Coachman to Govr. & Mrs. Macquarie - keeps a Livery Stable – is become a sober man – himself & a pair of his Horses are always ready – to bring Mary & any of her family – and the Doctor finds it much cheaper than keeping a Coachman & Horses

Elizabeth is well - & so is Emmeline – and our good kind Mrs. Lucas – She inhabits her Cottage – to sleep – (not this last many weeks) – but generally – there also William has an apartment – and Frederick – and the Mountain Chieftain – MacAlister – who has lately returned to his Command, after a months leave of absence – purposely timed, to see James – he has given Satisfaction to the Governor and Bush ranging is at present checked –

I fear my long details must fatigue you I will hasten to conclude – the trouble is I know not when to have done – when I

[Page 161]

enter upon Gossipping details – pray do not think your own letters are ever thought to be long we are sorry, they are not more diffuse and lengthy. –

You will be pleased to know that all the Goods James brought, were landed in excellent Order [Finery?] & all – some things might have been spared – but who can whisper across the Seas

God bless you, my dearest dear Edward – that this may find you well, & chearful – is the prayer of your ever affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

Mrs. Lucas (who is now walking in our very pretty Eastern verandah) near which I am writing – sends her Love – Elizabeth who is just returned from a Sally to her Garden pronounces the Wind to be changed – & the weather promises to become fair – James &

[Page 162]

Emmeline are writing in another room. Your father reading in the Dining Room where there is a fire –

I have not written to the Kingdons, for some time – by James I learnt that my poor aged Mother, continued well & surprizingly active – which is a great satisfaction to me

Remember me to all my old friends & acquaintances – to Mr Bigge – Genl. Foveaux – Davidson &c

[Page 163]

No. 18a

12

Parramatta 23d April 1831

My dearest John/

I need not tell you how happy the return of dear James, after a three years absence, made us your own heart will enable you to judge of this feeling – he is now quietly settled, and taking his usual active part in the affairs of the family – so that it seems, as if he had not been away –

A Letter from Edward, by a late arrival (not the Eamont has apprized us, of your return from the Continent with amended health, and improved

[Page 164]

appearance – We hope you will not again, be a sufferer from indisposition

As I have written a long letter to Edward – and a as James has written, I shall not enter into a detail on subjects you will find noticed elsewhere. – I have to thank you my dear Son for the Bracelets and other ornaments sent by James I shall think of you, when I wear them, not that I needed those emblems, to

[Page 165]

keep you alive in my remembrance I cannot recognize the Boy I parted with in 1800 – in the likeness of yourself brought by James. – Elizabeth is not satisfied that it can be a likeness – neither does your father think the expression of the Countenance a correct one – however, the Governor says it is a good likeness – and Mr. Mathieson says it is – & some others who have seen you, & confirmed also by the testimony of James so that I must suppose it

[Page 166]

to be so – and I am very glad to have it. –

When you see Mr. Davidson pray remember me kindly to him – Mrs. Davidsons Brother has been with us very lately and will I believe be going to Camden soon, to pass some time with James & William.

I hope our friend T. H. S. has at length safely reached England, after his many disasters, & prolonged Voyage we miss his Society very much more even than I had

[Page 167]

anticipated we should have done – it is, I believe that at my season of life it is too late, to form new friendships

Your father & sisters join in kindest Love & best wishes to you with
My dearest John
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 168]

John MacArthur Esqr.
Lincolns Inn

Favored by Dr. Fairfowl

[Page 169]

[Images out of order. This is the continuation of the letter beginning on page 171.]

visit Mary after her confinement which took place the Saturday previous – a dispatch was immediately forwarded to Camden, & when we returned to Parramatta the next morning, we found dear William already there – I need not tell you of our meeting – your own affectionate heard will best depict the same. I trust I feel as I ought to do, the kindness of the friends that [called?], and assisted you in the last sad duties – God bless them for it – I cannot repay their manifold kindnesses.

Dear William remained with us a week, yesterday, he returned to Camden, to resume his active duties – young James accompanied him – your Brother James went to Sydney this morning, purposing to return in the Evening – when he may, perhaps, bring Emmeline back, who made a second visit to her sister – you would scarcely

[Page 170]

credit how deeply she felt the loss of her Brother – although she had never, known him

neither had Mary any recollection of the beloved object of our regrets – her little cares must soon divert the current of her thoughts into other channels – and it is well that it should be so – James – on whom the impressions of his poor Brother are vivid & fresh – naturally suffers the most – and he is under the necessity of keeping his sorrow in check, to give consolation to others, & transact business necessary to be done – Elizabeth – you may be sure, grieves with a grief, that is passing [show?] – her early association with her poor Brother, the many interesting situations in which they were together placed – the friends they mutually made and their sweet intercourse by Sea & Land

[Continued on page 173.]

[Page 171]

No 18b

Parramatta Sepr. 26th 1831

I think I have regained sufficient composure to address you, my beloved Edward – and therefore I seize the moment, when under the influence of that belief. – I cannot enter into the afflicting details, of the irreparable loss we have sustained The Almighty I trust will in his own good time give us the consolation we pray for – and enable us to look on this sad event meekly, & with entire resignation. – your poor Father sustained the first communication, which was made to him by dear James – with manly firmness, & for a day or two, he talked over the many amiable qualities of our dear departed John read every kind note, & every Letter addressed to him, yourself, or James on the afflicting subject – occasionally giving way to a burst of tears – which he declared gave him great relief – & that he derived an unspeakable solace in reading all the testimonies of

[Page 172]

esteem and affection, which those communications contained – but for a day or two past he has given way to a despondency from which we cannot awaken him – he blesses you, and said he would write to you, to say, how much he thanked and praised you for all your exertions

he also said he would write to our kind friend Mr. Watson Taylor – and to our dear affect. Archdeacon Scott – I feel persuaded he will not be able to do so – and before this fit of Mental [Malady?] gives way to a more rational feeling – the Ship will have sailed –

Dear James will have enough to do – he will inform you that myself he & Emmeline received the afflicting intelligence at Woolloomallah – we had gone down to

[Continued on page 169.]

[Page 173]

[Images out of order. Continued from page 170.]

18b

26.9.31

formed a basis of Brotherly & Sisterly affection to which every succeeding year, seems to have added strength – her chief solace will be the care of the Garden and in the companionship of her little nephew Edward, who us much attached to her. – Dear Mrs. Lucas feels for us all with the sympathy of true friendship showing itself more by constant acts of kindness – than by mere words of sorrow & condolence. –

Dearest Edward! accuse me not of cruelty, in dwelling so long – on a subject, which will renew your grief – & open anew the wounds which the lapse of time should have healed – I would endeavour to write of something else – but my poor Johns image is at present too vividly depicted to my imagination. –

Saturday 1st Oct.

You will perceive the foregoing was written on Wednesday last – your poor

[Page 174]

father – after a severe paroxysm of suffering is now, I trust, in a way to be relieved – his mind begins to right itself – he has just called me to his Bed side, & desired me to mention to you, that he wished you to express his grateful thanks to Lord Wynford for his remembrance & kindness – also to Genl. Macdonald Archdeacon & Mrs Hamilton – Sir T. & Lady Farquhar – & to every other – where his thanks should be given – to whom Letters are not addressed by James. – I assure you, my dear Edward, that I feel I can scarcely say how grateful to Mr. Bigge his Letter to James, was written with so much true family feeling – and conveyed so ample a testimony to the work and merit of the dear departed – that

[Page 175]

to us, it is a treasure. –

Should your father continue to improve, I purpose going to visit Mary on Monday – Emmeline returned from Wolloomallah last Evening leaving her & the Infant pretty well – I shall not add more at this time accept our united affectionate Love and believe me ever
My dearest Edward
your affect. Mother

James has written to Walter Davidson you will not fail to give to him & Mrs. D our kind remembrances

[Page 176]

[Address sheet of letter. Note written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth, beginning on the lower panel.]

October 4th

My beloved Brother

Your own affectionate heart has already told you all that mine has suffered but it belongs to myself to assure you that I am as ever [indecipherable] & resigned to the will of Almighty for it as my [faith?] in him will allow and that I continually pray for & daily rejoice that command of my feelings wh. our religion & our reason both inform –

Had it not been for our dear Fathers desponding state – wh. has called me to be in continual attendance upon him – I would have written to you – once I did hope to have addressed a few lines to dear Mr. Scott – will you now say to him for me that I am very grateful for his kind recollection and that I have in all things endeavoured to do as he has required us. assure him also that I shall have cause to regard him as one of the dearest friends it has pleased God to bless us with – By some early opportunity I will endeavour to write to all – dear dear Mrs Hamilton the letter of hers you so affectionately sent to me did indeed awaken a train of most the mournful recollections – I have never ceased to love him. & should be ungrateful indeed if I cd. ever forget his kindness & that of all his family to us in those early days when kindness was so doubly needed – I feel that I had best conclude & will therefore only add that I know this heavy affliction will only [indecipherable] the bonds of our mutual affection my beloved brother & that I [indecipherable] yr. Attached Sister
Eliz. MacArthur

[Address panel:]

Major MacArthur

[Page 177]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script. Crossed section transcribed on page 179.]

No 18c

Woolloomoollah Wednesday Oct. 5th 1831

My dearest Edward

As I find the “Minerva" remains yet another day and as I think you will be gratified by the latest intelligence of us – I take up my pen to give it you – it is now one o’clock, I have just received a dispatch from Parramatta by the Post – dear James writes me, to the following effect “I was quite delighted to find my Father so much better His voice is clearer & better than I have heard it since my return, his aspect tranquil and composed – and altogether a greater amendment than I could possibly have hoped" – Elizabeth writes thus – “My father is still continuing to amend – he was shaved dressed & sat up an hour yesterday, but did not leave his Bed-room – after he was composedly in his Bed again – I told him of the “Herald" he desired to see it – and sitting up – read it himself – not without shedding tears – but yet in such frame of mind, as you would most desire him to be"

Emmeline writes

[Page 178]

to her sister Mary – much to the same effect – thank God! dearest Edward that I am enabled to give you this cheering intelligence.

James & Hannibal returned to Parramatta after an early dinner here, yesterday. – Mr. Bowman accompanied them, [purposing] to proceed on his Medical tour of Inspection – which will occupy his time, for the remainder of the week –

I was in hopes – Dr. Hamilton – or Col. Lindsay would have called to-day – but I am not sure whether they know, I am here – it is not long since we saw them at Parramatta. –

Say every thing for me, that your kind heart can dictate to our friend Archdeacon Scott – I have at different periods begun several Letters to him & the last I found dated the 24th of April – I have destroyed it – but I hope to write to him soon and what of an agreeable nature my former scraps contained – I will endeavour to recollect

[Page 179]

Thank him for his tokens of remembrance, by his old servant John Pelman, who I am told is looking exceedingly well, I have not seen him yet, being a great Stranger to Sydney. – Fail not to remember us kindly & affectionately to Mr. & Mrs. Davidson & say that Mr. Mathieson was with us at Parramatta a day or two before he sailed. his health apparently much improved. – We shall anxiously expect your next Letters – Mr. Bowman recd. a few lines from Mr. Buchanan which were forwarded to Ireland for the Hoogly [Hooghly] Transport dated London 18th June in which he says you were well & that the Ship in which Dr. Evans is – had not sailed – you will have so much to read, by the Renown, that it is scarcely right to trouble you with more, but it gives me comfort to scribble to you, well knowing you will not criticise what your poor mother writes – your Sister Mary is quite well to-day – she is up, & ever looking Lovely – The Infant a fine Baby – and the two older Boys, handsome intelligent children – Mary is not satisfied, she says

[Crossed section from page 177:]

with her Husbands Letter to you – it is not written in his best manner – because she says – he felt too much oppressed & dared not give way to the sensibility which would have overpowered him"

God bless & preserve you
My dearest Edward
ever your affect. Mother
E MacArthur

[Page 180]

Major MacArthur
Care of Messrs Herries Farquhar plc
St James’ St.

[Page 181]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 20

Parramatta March 23d 1832

My beloved Edward

Accept of a few hastily penned lines, I have procrastinated from day to day, and now the Ship is on the Eve of departure – your father & William went to Sydney yesterday the latter for the Express purpose of seeing your old acquaintance Capn. Sturt before he embarks. – your father to attend a meeting of the Council. I have not myself seen Capn. Sturt for a considerable time – as he has been in very bad health his expeditions into the Country, have it is apprehended, materially impaired his constitution. –
I am not certain whether your father will write to you by Capn. S. I am pleased to say however that he has written to you I think more than

once of late – he has been at Camden and is at present in very good health and in full activity – it is only that we who know him observe the occasional pang that comes across his mind when any thing recalls the image of him whom he dearly loved!! – how often my thoughts dwell on our Loss – and on you my dear Edward – I must not tell nor will I give way to feelings of sorrow & regret, which can be of no avail! – Let me thank you for all your Letters & kind communications – I cannot now remember the date of your last, William will I dare say acknowledge it – and also a letter to him from our

kind & affectionate friend Archdeacon Scott written from Whitfield – I have not yet been able to rally my spirits, so as to write to him, but I hope to do so soon.
James is in Argyle – he set out with Macalister who had been a fortnight absent on leave – Frederick Thompson is also in Argyle making a beginning on his Estate – I hope he may be successful – the Country is now in great beauty – very luxuriant in grass and vegetable productions. – your father was very much gratified at Camden by the appearance of the Garden, the Vineyard – and all around

I am very angry with myself for having delayed writing so long – it is now Candle light and I know you will hardly be able to make out my scribble – Emmeline is at the same Table with me – writing to you also She is not quite well, but nevertheless she writes – Elizabeth & our friend Mrs. Lucas are in the adjoining Room chatting with Dr. Anderson and your little nephew & namesake has just been to kiss “Grandmother" & “Aunt Emmeline" and bid “good night" –
We have heard from the Vineyard this Eveng. James of that House has had an attack of Dysentery – he is better, & the other members of the family are well. Maria promising

[Crossed section:]

soon another addition to it of a Son or Daughter – Mr. & Mrs. Copland Lethbridge are also well & Mrs King. Capn. King is expected soon, I understand – will his mother make up her mind to accompany him – and if she does will she be pleased with this altered community?
It is so much changed, and so rapidly changing that I hardly feel myself at home in it – it is literally by keeping at home that I do feel at ease – I have greatly wished to revisit Camden something or other has happened to prevent me I hope to go there before the Winter commences It is from thence, that I can write any thing readable – and from thence I hope to write to you my dear Edward and I hope to

address Mr. Scott from thence – tell him that Lowick is there and preserves his unrivalled skill in preparing a Sallad – & sending a Wild Duck to Table – as well as his Orthodox qualifications as Parish Clerk –
Apropos – Mr. Marsden has preached at Camden two or three times within the last year and so lately as three weeks since – when he was pleased to give the most unqualified [affectation?] of the good order and attentive demeanour of all our Servants on the establishment – Poor Mr. Marsden has since had a severe attack of illness – attended with considerable danger – Dr. Anderson has attended

him and thinks he will soon be enabled to resume his duties – Mrs. Marsden is in better health and is more active than she has been for many years. – Perhaps you will be surprized when I tell you that I have not seen the new Governor – Mrs. Burke has been too ill to receive visits – I have not heard that any of the Ladies of the Colony have had an interview with either Mrs. or Miss Burke your father thinks the Govr. a man of Ability
I conclude you will see Genl. Darling I hope he and his family will arrive safe in England I should be gratified to hear of them –

The two Dumaresqs are retired upon their Estate of St Heliers in the District of Hunters River – with their respective families – Mrs. Colonel Dumaresq is lately confined of a Daughter – this is the third Child – she and the Colonel paid William a visit at Camden just before their retirement – dined & spent the day at the Cottage – Say to our friend Scott that Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cowper have been paying Camden a visit. James was at home as host an Entertainer – when they were there. William being at that time with us here – God bless you my dearest Edward and grant my earnest prayer that this may find you blest with health & enjoying the Society of your kind friends – so prays your affect mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 182]

[For transcription see page 181.]

[Page 183]

[For transcription see page 181.]

[Page 184]

[For transcription see page 181.]

[Page 185]

No 21

Woolloomallah
Friday May 4th 1832

My beloved Edward

I gladly avail myself of an especial inducement, I have to write to you now by a medical gentleman, whom I have just seen, & who is to embark in the “Asia" to morrow – to sail early on Sunday morning – he politely offered to take charge of any Letters – and said he would endeavour to see you. – In the first place, I hasten to assure you of my health, together with the general good health of all the family in the next place – that I left Parramatta on Thursday morning – purposing to pass a few weeks with Mary & Bowman, which they have long solicited me to do – your Sister Emmeline – William - &

[Page 186]

young Edward accompanied me in the German carriage – the three latter – only remained here a few hours, & returned early in the Evening to Parramatta – where, as I learnt by Post yesterday they found James, just arrived from Camden, with the comfortable intelligence that all was going on well at the establishment there – the Lambing proceeding very successfully – & the pastures sufficiently abounding with grass & herbage

James has only returned a short time from Argyle – he gives a very favourable account of Frederick – of his application and industry in his new avocations the time, he has been on his farm

[Page 187]

is yet too short, to give any detailed account of his progress – at least I cannot undertake to do it – he was quite well and chearful when James left him. – as was your old warm hearted friend MacAlister who is quite Lord of the ascendant at Goulbourne Plains & for an extensive circuit around – a terror to all “Bushrangers" and ordinary delinquents. –

I scarcely think you will receive any Letter from either of your Sisters by Dr. Martin – you will I trust receive the Letters sent by Capn. Sturt, who has not long left Sydney – those Letters will perhaps, have apprized you of your dear fathers return to health, and it is painful to add to an over excited state of activity – which

[Page 188]

is much more appalling to his devoted family – than when suffering a little from Rheumatism, or other casual complaints which compelled – quietude, and consistency

Do not be alarmed, my dear Edward, nor grieve yourself – we all bear the tempest better, I may say wonderfully well – it is the old story – setting a variety of wheels in motion with a Steam Engine power – Planning – Building – making believe to do so at least digging up Earth – altering – Painting Driving about, at all hours – changing his mind continually – and in short keeping his family in a perpetual worry – for rest – I am sorry to say he does not – neither does he indulge in wine or other stimulants, save smoking

[Page 189]

save smoking Cigars. – I trust this tempestuous state of mind will ere long subside indeed, it has already calmed down considerably.

We can-not attribute this excitement to any one particular cause – he bore the shock of our lamented dear Johns death, with becoming fortitude - & certainly he grieved at heart deeply – but soon we thought – endeavoured to conquer his feelings – by throwing off sorrow, and indulging himself at the expence of ours – in talking of the dear departed, continually. reading all the Letters – & saying those & his bright name – were his solace". – he became more & more restless, anxious to get abroad and talk any where, & with every person, who came in his way – as he has written to you, you

[Page 190]

may be enabled to draw some conclusions yourself – I cannot but consider that he labours under a partial derangement of mind – and views many objects through a disturbed medium – May God grant – that these mists of the mind may soon disappear – hope it with us my dearest Edward – they have occurred before – although others have not so plainly discovered that they did do so – the state of you fathers health is excellent – nothing appears to tire or fatigue him – and he speaks of you with great kindness. – What can I say further on this anguissing subject? I am staying here at his express desire – he would have had Elizabeth

[Page 191]

to come also – but she would not leave Emmeline – solely to wait upon her father and either James or William will be at Parramatta also. – Having before told that I left home on Wednesday morning – and that Emmeline William and Edward came in the Carriage with me & returned in the Eveng – I should add that William having business to transact at Sydney, came down again the following Evening Thursday leaving James at Parramatta, William returned again this morning, and either one or the other will proceed to Camden, as they like not that the Establishment should be left

[Page 192]

long together, & particularly on Sundays

I am in hopes James will have found time to write to you by this opportunity and that his Letters will come down to-day. – your Sister Mary is quite well, and looking stouter, healthier and I am pleased to add happier than she has done for many years Their Boys – now three, are intelligent fine Children – Edward stays much at Parramatta – sometimes James little William now seven months old is too young to be separated from his mother – the Doctor is quite well – his concerns of farming in a prosperous way – he speaks of you with great warmth of feeling

[Page 193]

3

yesterday Mrs. Macquaid called – we had half an hours chat, during which I communicated to her the agreeable tidings of our friend Davidsons return from the continent with Mrs. Davidson, returned to the blessings of health – which she appeared to rejoice at. – Mr. Macquaid has built a good House – at the right of Woolloomallah Bay – on the hill just in sight of this House The family have removed in to it, but Mrs. M says they are not at all “to rights yet" – There are a number of Houses built on the same range by officers attached to the Government & some other respectable individuals

[Page 194]

on the Evening of the day I left here Maria presented her family with the addition of a Daughter – the eleventh child, the event was not expected so soon – Hannibal was at Sydney – and only left Mrs. Macquaids the same afternoon – the Mother & Infant I understand are doing well – and the rest of the family – whom I saw previous to my leaving Parramatta are in very good health. – All at home – excepting the young Traveller Charles – at School at or near Liverpool. –

I have not seen any of your old Regt. since I came down. I dare say Col. Lindsay Major Macpherson

[Page 195]

and Dr. Hamilton will call when they know I am here – The Governor & his family have been residing some time past at the Govt. House Parramatta I have never seen his Excellency – he seems not to pay any visits – and no Lady Visitors are received at Government House on the plea of Mrs. Bourkes ill state of health it is rumoured here – I know not with what truth – that she is deranged –

Young Mr. Bourke has called at Parramatta Capn. Westmacott too – the Governor is very Courteous to your father – James & William have seen very little of him he has said he is desirous to see Camden – Capn. Westmacott has been there – you will be pleased to know

[Page 196]

that your father has had no quarrel with any of the officers – as has sometimes been the case – the Council closed its sittings – I think in March I have heard your father sometimes expressed himself with greater Vehemence than might have been wished – but never unjustly. – on the whole my dear Edward, many things are much better & more satisfactory than when your poor father was in an excited state of mind about two years since. –

We have to acknowledge the receipt of many Letters from you – the one of latest date is to your Sister Mary – the Shoes & [Hats?] have been received the former in excellent order, & perhaps the latter also – but I did not see them

[Page 197]

4

What pleasure it is to us, to learn, that your Eye sight has improved so much – so that writing and reading is no longer a task – our old Servant Mrs. [Condron?] has been in the habit of using spectacles many years – lately her sight has so much improved that she has cast them away & works neatly at her needle without them – and she is near 60 years of age – herself & Husband still live in the neat Cottage & Garden – near the Old Barracks. – Poor Mrs. Bennet was with me the day before I came away – I hope & trust the Legacy will be forth coming – without further reference – she needs it – Bennet is dead he made a Will in her favour – which is properly attested – the pension allowed to him ceases – and more over he had incurred a debt – which will

[Page 198]

absorb most of the little means left her, to pay – she at present lives with our Old Servants John & Nancy Moore – I gave her the Copy of the Letter you enclosed from Mr. Buchanan – other letters of yours since have been recd. but no mention made of the Legacy and as the sum was not all to be immediately commanded – it may account for the delay – Mrs. Bennet is truly deserving all the good that can befal her – she was a most faithful, prudent & affect. wife – and is now quite a [pattern?] of frugal neatness in her appearance altho she is left solitary, & alone – she bears her bereavement of Children and Husband with a truly pious feelings of meek resignation to the will of God. –

[Page 199]

Of course – James will acknowledge the Books – concluding he will write – these things were unpacked as quietly & privately as possible – that there might be no cause for fresh excitement –

I would write to our dear friend the Archdeacon – but I am hardly composed enough – say to him every thing you think would be grateful, from us tell him I am writing in his Old Library at Woolloomallah – and that Mr. Bowman is writing opposite to me fixed in Mr. Bigges chair – I am thinking he will be offered the Bishopric of Calcutta – Will he, in that case decline the offer to renew his travels – I think not

As Mr. Bowman

[Page 200]

is very anxious to place his Letters in the hands of Dr. Martin himself and as he is about to embark I think it better to conclude this rambling Letter – that it may accompany Mr. Bowmans – I may add another Letter if time is given – in the mean time accept of our united Love & every good Wish for the continuance of your health & comfort – believe me to be
My ever dear Edward
your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

I cannot read over what I have written – excuse it – remembrances kind to the Davidsons –

[Page 201]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. First four pages transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page. There is a note on page 574, the typed version of this letter, noting that the date should read May 12th 1832,]

No. 19

Sydney May 12th 1831

I am not a little pleased dearest Edward – that another opportunity offers for my writing to you so speedily – it is now just a week since I addressed you – by the Ship Asia – I scribbled over four sheets of paper, which Mr Bowman gave in charge to Doctor Martin R. N. together with his own letters – James, as I afterwards found wrote also, he enclosed his Letter to Dr. Mitchel [Mitchell] at the Genl. Hospital – this was done to save time, as it was only sent from Parramatta by the Evening Coach – Mr. Mitchel told me the letter was sent with a request it might be forwarded by the Post. We saw the “Asia" sailing down the River on Sunday morning as we sat at the Breakfast table – and hope she will have a good passage and that you will receive

our dispatches safe – I wrote you that I came here on Wednesday the 2d May purposing to spend a few weeks at Woolloomallah William – Emmeline & little Edward accompanying me in the Carriage – they returned the same Eveng to Parramatta – and on Monday last William returned to Camden – James still remains at home – I have seen no one from Home this week. –
Mr. Bowman set out on his medical tour of Inspection on tuesday morning, and is not returned – he makes Parramatta a sort of rallying point he had slept there every night as my dispatch from thence announced yesterday. – As you will have heard of the declining state of health of Mrs. Burke – you will not be surprized to

hear the poor Lady paid the debt of nature on Monday Eveng last – at Govt. House Parramatta – She was interred there on Thursday at 9 o’clock in the morning – the Heads of Departments – and some of the Military officers attended the Funeral – Some of the Gentlemen who attended called at our House, amongst the number Col Lindsay – Mr Macleay and Mr Riddel These took luncheon there as Elizabeth wrote me –
your father has had a long interview with the Govr. it seems on this day week, of this Hannibal informed me, he was here on tuesday last he added that his “uncle was much pleased with the Govr." and that the discussion was on the affairs of the Colony generally – he believed – on these it is to be hoped your poor father would be

rational and calm – but it was an odd time to seek an Interview – I fear he is not in a quieter frame of mind, yet I shall be enabled to form a better opinion when Mr. B returns, which may perhaps be this Eveng. – in the mean time, I will hope the best. his health and digestion is remarkably good – never having occasion to take any Medicine.
Since I before wrote, I have had the pleasure to hear of my dear aged Mother from a Gentleman who had lately seen her – and who bore ample testimony in confirmation of those favorable accounts contained in the Letter of Mrs. Kingdons which you had the goodness to enclose to me – this Gentleman is a Mr. Boughton – some years settled on an Estate at Hunters River – he returned to Devonshire

[Crossed section:]

to arrange some family affairs – came back again to this Country in the Sir William Wallace, which vessel arrived this week – with merchandise – Mr. Boughton is a connection of The Kingdon family –
What a wonderful changed Country is this? Ships arriving and departing continually – It has started forward into a degree of importance I had never expected to see it attain – two or three Stage Coaches leave Sydney every day – two to Parramatta and one to Liverpool – our old Servant Watsford drives a Stage from Parramatta to Sydney, and back again every day in the week – Sundays excepted when like a good father he makes a rule to accompany his family to Church – Watsford is the most popular Coachman we have. his Coach is generally crowded with Passengers, and by his industry

he acquires an ample maintenance for a numerous family
I mentioned in my last that Maria had a young Daughter, making their family consist of Eleven children ten at home – they are all well, as is Mrs. Copland Lethbridge & her family – Capn. King may be expected I suppose this winter & Mrs. King Senr. Mrs. P King is anxiously expecting her Husband – She lives altogether on their Estate at the South Creek
I see by the Gazette of this morning – that some of our Cattle have arrived & are occupying a Station on the “Murrumbidgee" – in between that River and the “Abbercrombie" – James made this arrangement when he was in Argyle lately – MacDonald – another old Servant, has charge of the Cattle so detached – Frederick Thompson is well – and well pleased with

his farm. MacAlister also – It may seem unkind of me not to write to our estimable friend Archdn. Scott – I cannot commence a letter to him – as yet, but pray communicate any thing from me that you think it might please him to hear – Say every thing that affectionate friendship might dictate
I am very glad the Davidsons have returned and with health restored – remember us kindly to them – when will the Pyrmont Estate be decided upon? I had hoped and projected on going to Camden again log before this I have been prevented by various causes – one on account of the little Cottage having got into disrepair – it is now new Shingled – and about being new plaistered & painted – So

that I hope to be there ere long – I very much wish to see the Garden – and mark how it has improved –
At Parramatta there is a great change for the better – in “Aunt Elizs" Garden as the children call it – even William pays a tribute to your Sisters perseverance and attention to Horticulture – our Portugal Laurel has blossomed beautifully this year – we have made a small quantity of Olive Oil – and we have had Capers for our boiled Mutton – We cannot find out a successful mode of propagating the Caper Plant I fear ours is a peculiar variety – The fruit is very good – I wish you could procure any information upon this subject – Jefferson who writes about the Caper – makes no mention how the

[Letter continued on page 205]

[Page 202]

[For transcription see page 201.]

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[For transcription see page 201.]

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[For transcription see page 201.]

[Page 205]

[Continuation of letter, written and then part crossed at 90° to the original, transcribed here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page. One cross-hatched image/page is missing between images/pages 206 and 207 – see images/pages 574 to 578 for the typed version of this letter for confirmation. Transcription here includes content of the missing image taken from the typed letter.]

2

how the Plants are to be increased – and yet he writes to recommend to his Countrymen the Culture of the “Caper" – without explaining the method – it is a ling lived Plant, and very likely, difficult to multiply –
Dearest Edward – you need scarcely to be told I think how much of our thoughts – and conversation – you occupy – Dr. Cook dined here on Monday last, it was the first time I had seen him since his arrival – he told me many very pleasing things of & about you which quite cheered me – by him I shall again be enabled to write he purposes spending a few days with Mr. Anderson at Parramatta – but he is not certain whether he can go to Camden. – you will be glad to see Dr. Cook again – he is a Gentlemanly – and a very

feeling man. – I hope poor Capn. Sturt will arrive safe and with amended health – according to all accounts he was very much broken down by fatiguing long expeditions and harrassing circumstances, which preyed on his mind – It is a little suprise in our Government not to have sent some small vessel round by Sea to have examined that part of the Straits where Capn. Sturts travels down the Murrumbidgee terminated –
Capn. Forbes of the 39th is now out on an exploring party – accompanied by another officer of the 39th “Mr. Maule" with twelve of the Mounted Police – they have been out two months they have provisions & Equipments, for four or five – if not more – here is Mr. Bowman!

[Missing image; page transcribed from typed version of letter:]
returned from his tour. He left Parramatta about three o’clock, left your father and all there pretty well. He tells me James and Emmeline purpose paying us a visit on Monday. He brings a letter from the former to be forwarded with this to you and one to Mr. Hugh Davis. Mr. Mitchell comes to say the Platina will not sail before Tuesday. Therefore as it is dinner time almost, Edward, I bid you good-bye for the present.
Tuesday two o’clock
I resume my pen to say my beloved son, James and Emmeline did pay us a flying visit on Monday. James had a world of commissions for farming concerns and a variety of others for your father. I scarcely spoke to him, for he went into town almost immediately

and only returned, just to take some refreshment, and set out again for home taking Emmeline with him – she had promised her sister to return – both were well & arrived home in good time – James engaged Dr. Cooke to dine at our House to-day. he will remain at Parramatta some days. – On Sunday Major Macpherson and Dr. Hamilton called – we had a long chat – in which you was remembered – they told me – that the Colonel had received a Letter from Capn. Forbes dated April 15th. They had then reached what they termed the Ultima Thule – on the extreme point to which it was believed, any civilized man had before arrived – “The Party all safe" – a very heavy fall of Rain – a great many natives around them, very friendly

[Crossed section:]

and busied in constructing Huts to shelter the White men from the weather – They had passed over some fine Country – and were now abreast of a stupendous mountain barrier of overhanging Rocks & precipices which nevertheless they hoped to find a pass through in to head – when the Rains should abate – the natives told them that “White men were a long way beyond and by the side of great Waters" – the direction of the Party – or at least their Route has been about North-West from Sydney. – it is, now a month since the date of Capn. Forbes dispatch – it is to be hoped they may have discovered Rivers – or something worthy of the undertaking by this time –
To give you some idea of the increased population of Sydney Mr. Bowman and Mary paid us a visit at Parramatta the week before I came here – it happened

[to be] the market day – they counted one hundred and thirty nine carts between Sydney and our gate on the Road leading to our House at Parramatta – perhaps a still greater number would come from the interior by the Liverpool Road – besides supplies from Hunters River by Steam vessels – and from the Hawkesbury by Boat – It is almost incredible, the enormous consumption of this place –
If you again meet our old friends of the 46th Regt Major Prothero – Capn. Grant &c and tell them what I write – they will be surprized pray remember me to them
Mary says she will write to you by Dr. Cooke She & Bowman beg their affect remembrances

[Missing image; page transcribed from typed version of letter:]
I shall be very glad to hear that Mrs. Bennet’s legacy is paid.
I believe I must now finish my letter, as I am expecting Dr. Rutherford to call for it every minute. I do not think I can read over what I have written, dearest Edward. I trust you continue in enjoyment of health. How often does your situation present itself to my mind, and my tears will yet flow for what we have lost. I agree with you he would have had much bitterness to encounter. I humbly hope his spirit is blest.
Ever, my dear Edward, your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

[Page 206]

[For transcription see page 205.]

[Page 207]

[For transcription see page 205.]

[Page 208]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. First four pages transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 22

Saturday May 26th 1832
from Woolloomoollah
What a name!!

My dearest Edward

I believe it is just a fortnight since I commenced a letter to you before, it was not concluded until a day or two after – this letter, together with one from James, to you, & one from him to Mr. Huh Davis, were sent by the “Platina" in charge of a Dr. Rutherford – this vessel sailed yesterday week – I write now by the “Mary" reported to sail for London direct to-morrow – Since my last your letter from Earls Stoke Park written on Xmas Eve has been received and has given us much pleasure – it is just the place I would have wished you to be at that Season – your account of the family is very delightful, and highly gratifying to us all – I have had the pleasure of a visit here from your Sister Elizabeth since my last - She staid two

nights – and almost 3 days we walked to the Botanical Garden together with Mary & Mr. B – I believe we sauntered about three hours or more – looked at many things you had contributed to the collection, and amongst the number the arbutus – it had grown out of my knowledge. it is just now breaking into flower – there has been no Plant propagated from it – strange to say – it has been disfigured by repeated & injudicious laying the branches. – There is a new Garden formed contiguous, between the Old – & Farm Cove, which is the boundary of the New – it is laid out after the Plan of the Glasgow Botanical Garden of Dr. Hooker – and will be very beautiful – the introductions from Moreton Bay promise to be very

ornamental – it assumes already a very tropical character – but as I intend this to be a short letter, I must not let the Botanical Garden run away with my pen –
You will have heard of poor Frazers death and that Mr Allan Cunningham who was many years a collector of Plants in this Country for Kew Gardens, is applied for from hence to succeed Frazer – I wish he may have the appointment, he is at present unemployed – as I learn from Dr. Cooke – who dined here yesterday and told me he should certainly sail in about a week, he has been to Parramatta – and your two Brothers have been here, staid a night, & returned:
Your father also has paid us a visit for a day

he took home Elizabeth with him, he is better, dear Edward, but still too restless – I think however he will gradually become less visionary – the Sittings of the Council is postponed to the 10th of July – the Governor continues to be much afflicted by the loss of Mrs. Bourke he still continues at Parramatta – James told me, he had an appointment to see him on some business respecting the Magistracy – as this morning – and here let me stop to tell you – that I am keeping House her for your Sister – who with the Doctor and little James, have taken flight to Parramatta – purposing to return before it is dark, they set out at half past eight – the Infant is left at home

[Crossed section:]

I have been staying here, little more than three weeks – and this is the third time I have written to you – I wish you may have patience to decypher my Letters – we have intelligence from England as late as the last week in January – I have read Mr Bowmans Paper and observed upon the death of the unfortunate Col. Brereton – what an unhappy act – and to what a state of feeling must he have been excited. –
We have had no proper intelligence from the explorers into the Interior, under the direction of Capn. Forbes of the 39th – if they should discover a river navigable to the Sea – it will be of great importance to the Country –
Our last accounts from Argyle were that all there are well, I have seen no late letter from

Frederick – Hannibal at present is at his Estate on the Wollondilly – he is expected to return in about a week. he will see Frederic and MacAlister – If you communicate with THS soon, tell him I saw Mrs. Charles Cowper this week & old Mr. Cowper – they came here to visit me – the Lady looks pretty well, but says her Husband is far otherwise – he had recd. a short Letter from our friend dated in Novr. last from Whitfield – I suppose you correspond frequently particularly as you are so much in the way of getting franks –
I shall look out (with some impatience) for Letters from you, next month when we may calculate you will have received our Letters of last October

I must not revert to the feelings under which those were written – believe my dear Edward – that you occupy my thoughts, daily, and although I know you have many kind friends and that you need not be more alone than it is your choice to be – yet can I feel that none of those, can be, what he was, whom, perhaps, we selfishly lament!
I hope George continues with you – it is a great comfort to have a domestic to whom we have been accustomed – and who is faithful –
My Letter goes this Evening to Mr. George Bunn your acquaintance of old. he is the agent for the Ship Mary – he is a good natured, obliging

man – he & Mrs. Bunn called here a day or two since The Lady is of the Roman Catholic faith – a very inoffensive person, educated in a Convent
You say nothing of the good Marquis & his family in your last Letters – Pray continue to forward to us any little billets – you receive – if practicable
I shall now finish for the present – I may add a line in the Cover. when the travellers return. to give you the latest news from Parramatta – Accept my dear Edward of my Prayers for your health & Comfort
Your affect Mother
E. MacArthur
Pray remember us kindly to Walter Davidson & Mrs. Davidson –

[Page 209]

[For transcription see page 208.]

[Page 210]

[For transcription see page 208.]

[Page 211]

[For transcription see page 208.]

[Page 212]

[Continuation of letter on pages 208 to 211.]

Mr Bowman & Mary are returned quite well James & Emmeline accompanied them on their way, beyond Home Bush – the Estate of Mr Wentworths – you will receive a Letter from James with this – Mary tells me, he sets out for Camden to morrow – leaving William at home, who is complaining of a slight sore throat –

Once more believe all here send their Love –

[Page 213]

[Address, partly crossed through:]

To
Major MacArthur
Messrs Herries Farquhar & Co
St James Street
London

[Page 214]

No. 23.

Woolloomoolloo
2d June 1832

I now have the pleasure of addressing you by Dr. Cook – he dined here the day before yesterday, & promised to call some time to-day for our Letters – believing the “Portland" would sail to-morrow – I have been expecting some of the family from Parramatta – and think it still probable some one may come in the course of the day – we had Letters yesterday from Elizh.

[Page 215]

and Emmeline – giving the usual accounts. James was expected from Camden – Your Father had been taking young Edward to School – there is a Kings School established at Parramatta, conducted by the Revd. Mr. Forest. who with his Wife arrived about Six Months since

Edward commenced his schooling on Monday last – he only goes for a few hours in the day, at present – Mr. Forest

[Page 216]

is much pleased with him & was quite unprepared to find so much intelligence in his young pupil. – “Aunt Elizh" has been very attentive to the little fellow – and you may be sure, she is not a little gratified. –

It is only a week since I last wrote – just this day week – Mr Bowman & Mary on that day took a drive to Parramatta – partook of an early unceremonious dinner

[Page 217]

and returned in the Eveng. well pleased with their visit. –

This is the fourth time I have written since I came to Sydney – which was on the 2d May – just a Month! – will you not be tired of my scribling? – I wish I could say something entertaining but alas! there is a dearth of news and nothing of adventure to narrate. – here is Capn. Forbes returned and

[Page 218]

3

2.6.32

“from Country" – it vexes me that we have not been enabled to dry flowers, & collect seeds or plants to send you – still we live in hopes – to do better & more acceptable things than we have done. –

Your picture of Earl Stoke & its hospitable & friendly inhabitants is very cheering Mr. Watson Zegler has been a long & tried friend – as such I respect, & esteem him more than I can find words to express – I think of him and his attention for our

[Page 219]

dear dear departed John until my heart is overflowing with gratitude – and believe me, I think of Devonshire & all our old family intercourse when he was a lively comely [?] young man. – I think of his kind attention to all of us when he was in [indecipherable]

I do not forget although I cannot sustain a correspondence with the individuals. –

Fail not to say every thing you think it would gratify

[Page 220]

the Archdeacon to know from us – I have many very king [kind] enquiries made for him

Poor old Nelly who is still in the land of the living asks for him continually with a “Courtesy & a blessing on his name

Mrs. Bennet also – who constantly attends Church at Parramatta – but hears “no Sermons so edifying as the Archdeacons" –

I think I shall write

[Page 221]

to him, before I leave Sydney I feel a strong prepossession he will be offered a Bishopric in India – I observe the recommendation of a division of that vast Country into several Sees – I shall for the present close this Letter – accept therefore of my prayers & good wishes and believe me to be
My dearest Edward
Yr. Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 222]

Mrs. Macarthur to her son Edward

No. 182 5.6.1832?

NB

The important improvements your dear father mentions are little other than delusions – The Walls of the House have been Painted – the two Marble Chimney Pieces brought out by John have been put up, one in the Dining room the other in my Bed room (now fitted up as a Library, which it was intended to be, when a Bed room wing was added to the present Cottage – in the Drawing Room the Chimney Piece (sent out several years since) was put up – during the absence of James – it is much too large for the apartment, but

[Page 223]

being put up – I am as well pleased it has been allowed to remain – instead of being laid about from place to place –

about this Bed room wing – which is all we really want, or wish for in the way of accommodation – there has been at least fifty different Plans – I know not how many artists consulted, & partly employed The Ground marked out in different ways – over & over again – foundations dug out – all sorts of litters, & rubbish - & still no Building begun – whether it will, I cannot

[Page 224]

tell – more money has been frittered away – than it would have cost to put up the Building – your poor father cannot do any thing in a quiet orderly way – the Steam Engine power is applied to the veriest trifle, when in this excited state of mind – he takes very little sleep – & keeps every person about him in a state of perplexity – however, this disorder had better be at Parramatta than at Camden – and I hope it will soon be calmed down again –

Be not uneasy for us Dearest Edwd. we have many comforts, and consolations sometimes we vex – & sometime laugh

[Page 225]

over odd occurrences –

The conversation to which James alludes, is – that your father was under the impression that Major Mitchell had told him (two or three days since – when he was at our House) – that the Governor or Mr. Bourke had advised himnot to call – as he your father was under a mental malady James has since spoken to Major Mitchell who is quite astonished that any such impression should have been made. – I shall put up this memorandum with your fathers Letter & the “Herald" – I should not send it, but that I see he mentions it – and I am unwilling to leave it out of the packet, which was enclosed open to James, by an especial Messenger

God bless you dear Edward
Woollomoolloo – Tuesday 5th June (Mary by my side)

[Page 226]

[The first two pages of this letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original.]

No 24

Woollahmallah
30th June 1832
½ past 3 o’clock

My beloved Edward

Your Brother William has written a hurried Letter to be sent by the “London" a Ship bound for Liverpool, which is to sail to morrow – he and your Sister Elizabeth are this morning set out for Parramatta – the Latter has been staying here since Monday last, I am pleased to say, she has much benefitted by the change – William has only been with us two days. – yesterday Mr. Bowman & dear Mary went to Parramatta to see the dear inmates at Mrs. Lucas’s Cottage & to inquire into the state of your poor father

Col. Lindsay & Major Macpherson went there also – the two latter saw him, you will hear from some one of them, what their opinion is – Mr. Bowman does not at present see him, because he is denounced as a “Conspirator", & as one who has aided

[Crossed section transcribed on page 229.]

[Page 227]

in poisoning him –

I trust my dearest Edward my former letters will in some degree, have prepared you for this calamity – let us be thankful to the Almighty that a wholesome restraint was placed upon your beloved father, before his malady had induced him to acts of greater violence. – My feelings at this moment will not allow of my entering into details – of me he has made the most fearful accusations – your Sisters intend peremptorily to quit the House. – Still be not alarmed – his fine mind may yet right itself – he is in the House attended by John Moore our old faithful Servant – in conjunction with two or three others – who attend to his personal comforts in every respect – and administer to his wishes, as far, as it is

[Crossed section transcribed on page 229.]

[Page 228]

deemed practical at present, by the Medical Gentlemen who visit him. – these are Doctors Hall – Hamilton & Imlay (the assistant Staff Surgeon) - Bowman & Anderson – the two latter do not press their visits upon him, the three former are well received. – before I left Parramatta, which was at your poor fathers most persevering and earnest desire nay even command, he had taken a most unaccountable dislike to our friend Mrs. Lucas inasmuch as it caused her to isolate herself altogether to the Cottage – after I came here one dislike, close followed upon the heels of another, until your Sisters were [discounted?] & the House thrown into confusion Pistols – swords & offensive weapons in his hands! I need make no further comments

I have written to you, so very lately

[Page 229]

by Dr Cook, & previously by several other conveyances, that there is little of family detail but what you will be in possession of, I hope, before you receive this. –

I wish to mention that by the London now about to sail for Liverpool – our old servant Jane [Mead?] has her passage paid for by us – She is Embarked this afternoon – She has been with Murray & his wife both our old servants at the Carters Barracks a few days – they have seen her on board & comfortably settled – it is arranged that she will receive twenty Sovereigns from the commander of the Vessel on her arrival at Liverpool – which I hope she will make a practical use of. – we have her receipt in full of all demands with

[Crossed sections from pages 226, 227:]

with a thousand thanks for our bounty & kindness

She has intelligence of a Legacy to a considerable amount being left her – which is locked up in the Court of Chancery – I mention all this because – because the poor creature having been under our protection a great many years – and being known to our friend Scott who was intimately acquainted with the family of the Clives to whom she was a servant some years before she was sent to this Colony under a sentence of seven years – this has been long expired – you might accidentally hear of such a person & would naturally wonder that no mention was made of her departure from the Country by our furtherance –

She is furnished with no Letter to you – and has no claims.

I trust my dear Edward you will receive the painful part of the intelligence our Letters now convey with that fortitude, which is befitting a Christian – We must bear it – and I pray that we may be enabled all to do our duty. –

Dear Mary & Mr. Bowman who is most affectionate together with their three Boys are well and join in most affectionate remembrances to you

Believe me to be
My dearest Edward
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 230]

No. 183

Sydney Wednesday July 3d
Woollahmallah
1832?

My dearest Edward/

I again sit down to address you – according to my promise in my letter of last Saturday, the 30th of June this letter together with one from each of your Brothers was sent by the Ship “London" bound for Liverpool She sailed on Sunday morning – this is to go by the “Mary Anne" which is to sail to morrow, for London direct – by which of these Vessels, you may first receive our Letters, is altogether doubtful, as they sail so nearly together. – I hope & trust, you will have seen Dr. Cook, and will understand the letters we sent by him – before these come to hand. – under this impression, my dearest Edward, I console myself in thinking you will be in a great measure prepared for the distressing intelligence of your beloved fathers mental aberration – it is even so – and we must endeavour to support ourselves under this heavy

[Page 231]

heavy affliction with becoming fortitude – and an entire resignation to the will of the Almighty – believing also these chastisements are for our good – I cannot say, the blow – severe as it is – has come upon us without long previous apprehension, that sooner or later, that mighty mind, would break down, and give way – I cannot enlarge upon this subject – but be comforted – my Son – in knowing that the dear object of our solicitude appears to be cheerful, and not at all unhappy – although he believes himself to be under the influence of Poisin – that his Daughters have robbed him – that I have been unfaithful, & that your two Brothers have fled to the mountainous Passes in Argyle. – Such has been the delusion or at least some parts of it. – your poor father occupies the Library (formerly my Bed room) a small sleeping room & a Dressing Room – all in the East Wing of the Cottage – he is attended by our Old Servant John Moore – and another very

[Page 232]

respectable man – besides one or two others – one your father thinks to be Dr. Hamiltons Servant His medical attendants have been – besides Bowman & Anderson – Dr. Hill – Dr. Hamilton – and Mr. Imlay the Staff Surgeon, the latter is in daily communication with the Governor – having attended the late Mrs. Bourke – and generally residing in the family – I learn that Mr. Imlay had a Couch in the Library prepared for him last night – in order to observe how your poor father passed it – before I quitted home, his nights were fearfully unquiet

Your Sisters are with Mrs. Lucas at her Cottage Elizabeth spent last week here – she looks better than I expected, considering the horrifying time they have had – dear Emmeline also, is I learn, pretty well. – William, has returned to Camden where he expects to find Frederick Thompson James is just arrived here, and will remain to-night – having left Mr. Bowman at Parramatta who will occupy his toom – Mr. Bowman and

[Page 233]

Dr. Hamilton are to visit your father to-day –

My former letters will have shown that I came from Parramatta to spend a few weeks here, on the 2d of May – I believe I have written to you almost every week, since I came – therefore – there is little of family detail but what you will be in possession of – dear James has had a perplexing time – his feelings – and affections – wrought upon to an excess – and every day business to be attended to – Such is Life! – with dear Mary & Bowman, I have had all comfort, and repose which their affectionate care, could ensure me. – they and the three dear Boys are quite well –

your warm hearted friend MacAlister is now in Sydney, on leave, I believe he has written to you. – fail not, dearest Edward, to remember us kindly to our old friends – & say all that your own heart may suggest for us to them – Davidson – the Archdeacon – in short all that are interested for you or those dear to you

I shall add a few lines in the Envelop & here subscribe myself My beloved Edward
Your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 234]

Correct (24a)

Woolloomallah
Sepr. 13th 1832

My dearest Edward

I again address you from Sydney – after an interval of, at least, seven or eight weeks, since the date of my last letter – I have now the pleasure to acknowledge your communications by Dr. Fairfowl – who has arrived about a fortnight – Mrs. King and Capn. King in the Ship Brothers reached Sydney – all well – just two days before so that there was a great accession to the family at the Vineyard in a short space of time – by a Telegraphic Signal from the Heads of Port Jackson – Hannibal learnt at Parramatta the arrival of the Brothers and was himself in Sydney with suitable conveyances to remove Mrs. King & family before the Ship anchored in the Cove: –

they all immediately proceeded to the

[Page 235]

Vineyard. – I have not therefore yet seen Mrs. King – nor Capn. King. – Dr. Fairfowl came to us immediately – and gladdened us by the good tidings of your health – your letter to me by him, now lies before me – I hope you had a pleasant excursion to Brighton – and that you returned benefitted by the change. – you tell me of having seen many of our beautiful flowering Shrubs at Lodiges [Loddiges] – just now there are a great variety in high profution of bloom – in their natural abodes on the Hills around Sydney – and a great many of the Boronias - all beautiful although I think I still give the preference to the Rose as being my first fancy flower on these well secluded spots – now they are comparatively exposed, & laid bare near Sydney – all the high Trees having been cut [away?] for fire-wood. – I am not unmindful of your request – yet unable at this time to send either seeds or plants. your own feelings

[Page 236]

will readily suggest the reason. – It is now more than four months since I left Parramatta. – and the greater portion of that time, has been passed entirely in the House – excepting an occasional walk in the garden. – Within the last few weeks, we have had the benefit of some Carriage airings. Our old Close carriage has neem new lined and painted we have it – and a pair of strong steady Horses together with a Coachman, who seems Master of his calling – these Mr. Bowman is so kind to entertain for us – we all partake of the amusement, which gratifies the Boys & Mary also – we drive out on the South head Road – a certain distance – and then get out and stroll about (taking a Servant with us) to where ever our inclination may lead us. – a great many families have been very attentive in calling upon us and have given very pressing invitations to me to pass

[Page 237]

a day at their respective Houses. – hitherto I have declined so doing – on many accounts. –

Elizabeth is now staying here with me – I hope she will write to you, even although it should be a short letter. – dear Mary and Edward paid a visit to Mrs. Lucas & Emmeline on Saturday last at the Cottage returned again in the Evening with a promise to renew their visit very soon – Since Dr. Fairfowls arrival your poor father seems to have received James again into favour he is almost constantly with him, and at his request Eats with him, & sleeps at the House – but he still labours under delusions, and is not to be trusted – I had hoped to have seen James here, but he has been unable to leave your poor father. – We have hopes of being enabled to engage some respectable person

[Page 238]

2

to devote themselves to him, as a Companion

I very much fear he will not be in a state to be trusted for any length of time – to dwell on this harrassing subject – will avail nothing – but tend to distress you my dear Edward – and render me unfit to continue my letter – I am assured your poor father looks exceedingly well – Eats, & drinks, and sleeps – as one who knows of no discomforting circumstance. –

Since I wrote the foregoing – a Mr. Morris called here with several letters to your father James and Frederick Thompson – and with a great many apologies for their detention, he said he arrived in the “Florentia" Six weeks since that a large parcel directed to Mr. Thompson was sent or given to his charge by Mrs. Plummer – & on learning here that Mr. Thompson was far away in the interior

[Page 239]

on his return from Parramatta and Liverpool and severely injured his right hand – every bone & muscle was bruised & misplaced – he has ever since been confined to home and although every care & attention has been pd [paid] to accelerate the recovery – he cannot yet use it – to write, or to shave himself – this has been a great source of sorrow, and privation to us all. – he has begun to go out again and visited the Hospital yesterday – so that we trust the hand will, ere long, be quite useful again to its Master. – I shall leave to James the discussion of all subjects of business – we are as you may believe, very solicitous to hear of the proceeds of the Wool – the Season for Shearing is approaching – William is at Camden making the accustomed preparations – he is very busy amidst his varied occupations, and when I last saw him appeared to be in good health

[Page 240]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

Dear Mrs. Bennets Papers will be sent by the Rubicon – the dear good woman came to Sydney last week to get what was necessary to be done by Mr. Solicitor Norton – & to affix her signature – I hope these will answer all the purposes at length – She returns you a thousand thanks – & prays for your health & welfare. – She is the picture of meek resignation – she was much gratified by Mr Buchanans feeling mention of herself & her late Husband. –

Mrs. Marsden has been staying in Sydney some time on a visit to her son-in-law & Daughter – we have been more drawn together, than we have been for many years past – she has gone out with us, in our airings. – we often speak of you. – Dear Mrs. Lucas has written to you, she requests me to apologize for her Letter, & she says she has omitted to mention, that she had just drawn for one hundred pounds. – Mary & Mr. B request their most affectionate remembrances – and the two dear Boys send Love to “Uncle Edward" – the little William is just able to walk, being now a year old – Dear little Man – we could not

[Crossed section:]

trust ourselves to think of his birth day – which was so speedily followed by an announcement – which plunged us into so deep a grief! – With my Prayers for your health & tranquillity believe me to be
My dearest Edward
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 241]

Copied

No. 25

Woolloomallah Sepr. 25th 1832

My beloved Son

I write a few hasty lines to you by the Mail which I see by the Gazette to-day – is to be made up this Evening for the “Rubicon" – this Vessel has been expected to sail ever since the 15th. – our Letters have been written at various dates – and have been sent to Messrs. Campbells (the Elder) the Agents – who kindly promised to forward them – a Letter from James – do. William. do Self – and a packet containing Papers – Mrs. Bennets I believe – Frederick Thompson has written – but his packet is to his usual way of address to his friends – this is merely to say that we are all well. – Frederick Thompson has come from Parramatta to pay us a

[Page 242]

hasty visit – he has been living with your poor father at the House, since James went to Camden which was I think on Wednesday or Thursday last Dr. Fairfowl went with him & returned with Hannibal yesterday – leaving your two Brothers quite well James proposes returning to Parramatta the latter end of this week – Frederick is looking in excellent health, & seems very chearful – he tells me that your father is quite kind & familiar with him and talks rationally on indifferent subjects – but will not be calm – when speaking of his family – he looks well – eats – & sleeps well uses wine moderately – reads – and seems happy!!

Mrs. Lucas & Emmeline are at the Cottage – Elizabeth here with me. – I cannot say all that I feel for Mr. Bowmans kindness to us – he really would be, for having us all with Mary and him – I am pleased to tell you he has in fact, been enabled to resume his duties again – after a confinement for to home, of ten

[Page 243]

weeks – Mary & the dear Boys are quite well. I hope you will have received all the letters, I have written to you from hence

I think – my dear Edward, you will not accuse me of forgetting to write – you are ever kind, & thoughtful to [enact?] no opportunity yourself of writing to us and we are equally anxious that your solicitude for us – should not be increased by our silence – all under this [indecipherable] unite in the kindest & most affectionate remembrances to you – with
My dearest Edward
your every affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 244]

[Address]

Major Edward MacArthur
Care Messrs. Herries & Farquhar
St. James Street
London

P [per] “Rubicon"

[Page 245]

No 26

Woolloolallah Sepr. 29th 1832

My dearest Edward

This day week I wrote you a Letter of advice and had it put into the Post Office, on the assurance the “Rubicon" would sail on Sunday last – Why the departure of the Ship has been so delayed I cannot tell – Mr. Bowman who has been in Town this morning met the Commander Capn. Daniels – who assured him he should Sail to-morrow. I am therefore induced to write another Post Letter, that you may have the latest intelligence from us – although I have nothing of a particular nature to detail

Dear Mary and Edward are gone to Parramatta. They set out from this place at ½ past seven – and propose returning in the Evening – we had a letter from Emmeline yesterday – she and Mrs. Lucas were

[Page 246]

well – no change had taken place with respect to your poor father – Frederick Thompson was staying with him, and only quitted him for an hour in the Eveng, just to take a run to the Cottage & take his tea with them – as your father retired early to bed – James had not returned from Camden, I should think he would this Evening – William has arranged to commence Shearing on Monday next.

I believe you have been before told that James s Grey Mare has a Horse foal – an “Emigrant" – It was one of the objects of his visit to look over the Stock of Horses – which had been previously collected and detained in the Paddocks.

Elizabeth is still here – in wandering about the Banks – near this place & seeing

[Page 247]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

the Boronias and other beautiful plants now in flower – it has occurred to us that a Cask of the Mould in which they are growing – might be acceptable to Lodiges [Loddiges] – as being likely to contain a number of Seeds, which are too minute to be collected without constant & devoted attention – Mr. Bowman has kindly promised his aid to this little experiment & we hope to forward a Cask of Earth accordingly by the Wool Ship – if no opportunity offers sooner –

William hopes to make a little excursion to Illawarra (or five Islands) to collect Plants that part of the Country produces many beautiful and rare varieties – it is not a grand distance from Camden – but a troublesome road. –

Remember us to all – to whom remembrance is due – particularly WSD and our old friend THS – God bless you
My dearest Edward – believe me to be
Your own affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 248]

[Outside page of letter with address and note, beginning on the lower panel of the page.]

Messrs Campbells have forwarded your Brother James s Letters Williams mine and F. Thompsons also a Packet of Papers (Mrs. Bennets) –

You ought also to receive a Single Letter from me, written this day week –

You will be glad to hear that Mr. Bowman is fast recovering the use of his hand, he hopes to go himself to Parramatta very soon –

[Note in a different hand, that of Edward’s sister Elizabeth:]

Accept dearest Brother the most affectionate love of your Elizh. MacArthur

[Address:]
Major MacArthur
Messrs. Farquhar & Co.
St. James St
London

pr. Rubicon

[Page 249]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 27

Wooloomalla Friday 2. Novr. 1832

My beloved Son/

Again another Ship, the “Waterloo", for which Messrs. Aspinal [Aspinall] & Brown are the agents – is promised to be on the Eve of departure for England – I hope she will not be so faithless as was the Rubicon – the last ship by which we wrote – she held out promises of Sailing five or Six weeks – & will have occasioned you a great expence of Postage if you receive all the Letters safe that were written week after week & sent to the Post Office – this vessel finally sailed the 4th or 5th of last month Since then we have had the pleasure to receive your Letters by the Planter & the Box of Books – entrusted to Dr. Fairfowl – have also come to hand – as James will have explained, how the mistake originated I shall say nothing more on the subject
I feel that I have very little to tell you worth commiting to paper – unless indeed it were by a penny post: one great, & overpowering cause seems to enervate my faculties – I try to resist the influence – but these are times when I can not

rouse myself – I need not explain that it is the state of your poor father – and perceiving myself and your Sisters, driven from our home – although we have a most kind & affectionate one here with dear Mary & Bowman yet still your father maintains his hostile feeling towards us – not with standing he is generally much more rational than he was
I will not dwell upon this subject but endeavour to turn to something else – your Letters dearest Edward are very gratifying to us – it is a great source of our enjoyment to think, you are so respectably and so pleasantly situated – the acct. of your trip to Brighton was very acceptable – the little notes you send us – come very secure with the Reviews or Pamphlets – on which there is but a trifling charge.
Since I last wrote, I have seen Capn. King he is looking remarkably well – I think

he does not appear to me to be well pleased with the Country – but I had not much conversation with him – Mrs. King has not visited Sydney since her arrival consequently I have not seen her – She has been spending a week at the South Creek - & visited Dr. Harris – whilst there – the Doctor paid me a visit here a few days since and told me he had heard of you with great pleasure – from the Kings and from Mr. Bunn (who is very civil & most obliging to me) Dr. Harris makes Mr. [Bunns] his head quarters at Sydney, where also Pay master (that was) Mr. Massey resides with his Daughter & Son-in-law – Harris & Murray have for many years been great friends –
and now let me just notice that we occasionally see some of your old 39th friends – those that are left were on Detachment – Capn. Smyth & Major Crotty speak of you with pleasure – poor Barkers servant is hired at Camden & also a Servant of Dr. Hamiltons – I have a narrative containing

[Crossed section:]

an account of poor Capn. Barkers death – which shall be sent you by Dr. Fairfowl – Col. Lindsay caused a Tablet to be erected to his memory which is placed in St. James’s Church the Officers of the 39th subscribed – and I requested of the Colonel that your name might also be included – perhaps I have written you this before if so pray excuse the repetition –
I am very glad to learn that General Darling and his family have arrived safe – I hope you will see them – I feel much kindness towards them all much as they have been abused –
I have never seen the present Governor – nor any of his family – young Mr. Burke [Bourke] called once or twice at Parramatta – & the Governor & Suite slept a night at Camden – He is now on a tour to Bathurst and Wellington Valley – his Son and

Daughter with him – and now dear Edward I will tell you of our position here & how we are – I am writing in the Drawing Room – Edward reading to his Aunt Elizh. Mary nursing the little man – who is somewhat ailing from teething – Mr. Bowman in his Library – talking to a confidential person who has been employed about your poor father & who has just been the Bearer of the Letters you will receive from dear James together with a little dispatch to ourselves from James – Emmeline and Mrs. Lucas – they are all well and only complaining of a very warm day yesterday – little James is on a visit to Aunt Emmeline – I find he was taken to see his poor Grand father yesterday & was kindly received. – Mr. Bowman has not yet so far recovered from the effects of his fall, as to be enabled to make visits to the Country. – however – he is progressively getting better. –

from dear William I have not had a direct communication this week – but I learn from Parramatta – he is well – and very busy – last week he sent us flowers – the Rhododendron – Lilac – Prunus &c &c – Mr. Mcleay who is such a lover of horticulture interests himself very much in Williams success – therefore I sent them some of the Specimens – Mr. Mcleay has a very beautiful interesting Garden & ornamental Ground at Elizabeth Bay – we go there frequently & sometimes meet the family –
As there will be another Ship the Florentia that will sail for England very soon – I shall not extend my letter beyond a single Sheet – and I promise to leave room for a line from Elizabeth – All the family unite in most affectionate remembrances to you with
My dearest Edward
you ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

fail not to remember us to our friend THS to Davidson and to all who think of us kindly – Thanks for your intelligence from Devonshire

[Page 250]

[For transcription see page 249.]

[Page 251]

[For transcription see page 249.]

[Page 252]

[Outside page of letter with address. Note written by Edward’s sister Elizabeth, beginning on the lower panel:]

Tell Mrs T. Thompson Fredk. was quite well when we last heard fm. him.

My dearest brother
I cannot seal our Mother’s letter without one line of affectionate greeting altho it be only to reiterate what I trust you have no occasion to be told that altho I cannot make up [indecipherable] to write long letters my Sisterly feelings are not the less warm towards you & my regard for our [indecipherable] family is undiminished. God bless my brother accept the love of yr. Eliza. MacArthur.

[Address panel:]
Major MacArthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James Street
London

pr. Waterloo
2nd Novr.

Received April 1st 1833.

[Page 253]

[Some images out of order. Notes at the beginning and end of each section of this letter indicate order.]

No. 28

Sunday Novr. 26th 1832
written in Mr. Bowmans Library

My beloved Edward/

I have yet the pleasure of addressing a few lines to you, by the Florentia – which has again been unexpectedly delayed – as you will perceive by James’ letters that she was positively to have sailed last Sunday. – I am pleased at the detention as it enables me to thank you for your Letters & all the little Bazaar tokens of remembrance – which we have safely received by the hands of Mr. W. Riley who arrived on the Evening of this day week.

on Monday morning he called with the Letters & Mr. Bowman very courteously offered him the use of Woolloomoola to Land his interesting Emigrants the Goats – they were accordingly brought from the Nancy the following morning & have remained until last Eveng. when three Carts removed them to Raby their intended abode – they appear to be quite healthy, & are in good condition.

[Page 254]

I wish they may add to the future wealth of the Country – or create a spirit of industry in the lower classes of the Community – they have no application to collect small matters to farm to profitable account – like the inhabitants of the Mountains of Cachemire [Cashmere], Thibet – and perhaps Angora where these animals are natives – However every curious importation to a new Country is praiseworthy – and I have still (old as I am) still enthusiasm enough to feel interested in the welfare of the [Shear?] Goat. – Mr. W. Riley appears to be a pleasing young man. I hope your Brothers & him will be neighbourly – he was at Parramatta on Thursday, & called at The Cottage & on that day James came to Sydney so that they missed each other. – I have a fear the young man will be plagued with his Relations – to say nothing of the family of the late unfortunate Edwd. Riley – there is a Mr. George Wilson a Son of Mr. A [Alexander]

[Page 255]

Rileys Sisters – who has been lately dismissed from the department of the Commissariate for improper conduct – I observe this young man has fixed himself upon his Cousin – which is, to be sure, natural enough – I only hope he may not injure or encumber him. –

I have been expecting a visit from dear Emmeline this week, but the extreme heat of the weather, has disappointed us of that pleasure on those days, which were fixed upon as convenient. – I Enclose a Note from James to me, which was brought by our Servant Hyles last Evening – I am enabled to make this letter a little more bulky without the fear of causing you much expence of Postage – as the Gentleman who conveys it has promised to call on you – he is a Surgeon in the Navy named Lawrence a very quiet Gentlemanly Man, by no means of Gossipping habits – he has been

[Page 256]

here several months & having been in very indifferent health – has been induced to go into the Country – he was several weeks in Argyle – staying at Mr. Futters – who was an old Shipmate – knows MacAlister – was a night or two, I believe, at Camden – has since been at “Hunters River" – at the Scotts & Dumaresqs – &c &c and he is a particular friend of “Loudons" [John Claudius Loudon] – the great Gardener where he lives when in London – this circumstance none of us knew, until yesterday, when Dr. Lawrence calling for our Letters, & to take leave, it was accidentally mentioned by his asking what in the way of flowers, or Plants would be the most desirable for him to bring should he come out in the same Capacity again to this Country? – Elizabeth therefore, furnished him with a list for his guidance – Mary has put up several

[Some images out of order. Section 2 of this letter begins on page 269.]

[Page 257]

[Some images out of order. Section 3 of letter beginning on page 253; continued from page 272.]

26.11.32

3

setled – which is a very agreeable reflection – Lady Brisbane (dear Woman) has written to Emmeline a most kind and affectionate Letter, it was brought by a Scotch Emigrant an Artizan who had lived near Makerstoun – who arrived the week before last – she will write to Lady B very soon – little James is still staying with “Aunt Emmeline" – at “Aunt Lucas’s" Cottage – Edward paid them a visit of some days the week before last, and was very loth to return but it is best for him to be with Aunt Elizh. at present – it is mutually beneficial – The aunt is oracular with the nephew – and certainly he is a sweet dispositioned Boy and his reasoning powers are fast developing do not smile dear Edward – I am sure females have much to do, in imparting good principles into youth. – The father and Son are gone to Church – your two sisters, myself & the Infant, just now able to walk – at home – Elizabeth making out a list of Plants that we have, &

[Page 258]

have not – Mary watching her Child – your Mother writing to you, to be ready to give her Letter to Dr. Lawrence who has promised Mrs. Bowman to dine here – he Embarks to morrow morning & it is expected the Ship will sail the following morning: –

Mrs. Bennetts papers were sent by the “Rubicon" I hope you will receive them safe, and that there will be no further impediment to the poor widows getting the Legacy to which she is so justly entitled , by her patient merit & the right of her late Husband – I wish there had been a Duplicate prepared – as I have not the best opinion of the Rubicon – or rather of the Commander – he was so flippant – and uncertain – about Sailing – and Passengers were unwilling to go in the Vessel – however I hope you will receive all the Letters & Papers sent by that conveyance. –

The remainder of the 39th Regt. are to Sail for Madras almost immediately – I believe James

[Page 259]

undertakes some sort of Charge for Major Crotty & Capn. Smyth. – I know they have made a request to him – but I am not quite aware what his answer has been. – You will have seen Capn. Sturt – I hope – and I also hope his health will have been reestablished during his voyage – is it not pity that his arduous undertaking has not been followed up? and that neither the Government not any spirited Individual has made any attempt to ascertain the approach by Sea to where Capn. Sturts discoveries – were by necessity terminated – no one, but your lamented friend Barker has made any attempt and he poor fellow perished, by being too bold, & incautious. – you are a Subscriber to the handsome, & appropriate Tablet erected to his memory in the Church of St. James’s by Cdr Lindsay & The Officers of the 39th

I shall be very glad to hear of our friend T.H.S again – he will not, I hope vex me with

[Page 260]

broken promises – I certainly did promise to write to him – but under all circumstances how can I write to any – beyond my own family. – remember me very kindly to Walter Davidson – Why is it that he will be so indecisive about the Menangle Estate – good natured – kind hearted – and friendly – as he is – all I can say – is that he must have imbibed an erroneous Estimate of its ultimate value to him. –

You draw a feeling picture of Mr. W. Taylors Son – he is to be pitied – bred in such false expectations! I have heard from James that the half Brother – who was taken to the Elder Sons of Mr. W. T. – gave them a little insight into the hazardous state of the affairs of their mistaken father – and I believe our lamented dear John – also – as much as he felt himself justified in doing – admonished Mr. W. T. to look steadily to the adjustment of his property – how can we account for such a delusion

[Some images out of order. Section 4 of this letter begins on page 265.]

[Page 261]

[Some images out of order. A note on page 264 indicates continuation of this letter.]

No 29.

Sydney 6th January 1833

My dearest Edward/

I write a few lines rather in a tantalized state of mind – the Transport Mary from London the 4th Sepr. arrived this morning, & anchored in the Cove – but it being Sunday – no Letters are delivered – and the “Arundel" for England having obtained her clearance from the Customs House yesterday, is quite ready to Sail! A Letter for you from dr. James was sent me yesterday to be dispatched with what I should write – and although I feel assured he has written upon all subjects of importance to you to know, I am unwilling to neglect writing a few lines, and fearful to delay doing so, lest the Arundel should sail

It is now a considerable time since we have had the pleasure of hearing from you – the last accounts were by Mr. W. Riley who arrived safe with his Speculation of Goats – they were landed at this place & remained several days, and until it was found quite convenient to Mr. Riley to remove them to Raby – where they now are –

[Page 262]

Many thanks for your “Bazaar" recollections I should hope the money obtained for these trifling ornaments – is usefully applied – but is it not an odd way to obtain charitable donations? What may be said in answer to this & many other things I suppose is – “That it is the fashion" – and gives occupation and amusement to Ladies, who are rich well disposed – and have little to do –

The work of her Majesty is quite an interesting curiosity!! – an exhibition of such little trifles wonderfully helps one some times, even here to fill up conversation in a morning visit.

My last Letter to you was written by the “Florentia" and entrusted to the care of Dr. Lawrence a very respectable Gentlemanly person – for whom Mr. Bowman feels interested – the Florentia sailed the 27th Novr. – since then very little has occurred materially to alter the position of our affairs that I am aware of – James – who had sealed his Letter before he sent it me – will doubtless have mentioned that by the concurring opinion of our Friends he has engaged a Dr. Wallace to live with your poor father – he is at present

[Page 263]

in great favor with him – by a letter from dear Emmeline this morning – I find that James set out from Camden after breakfast yesterday – and that Mr. Wallace & your father accompanied him as far as Liverpool – that they called on Dr. Hill & returned to Dinner at 5 o’clock – Emmeline still continues to live at the Cottage with our kind friend Mrs. Lucas

James purposes returning to Parramatta to-morrow and on Tuesday he purposes bringing Emmeline here to visit us – whilst he attends to the Wool Carts one hundred Bales are intended to be sent off from Camden so as to reach Sydney on Tuesday to be embarked in the ship “Brothers" the Ship in which Capn. King arrived – since I last wrote Mrs. King has paid us a visit – I am surprized to see so little alteration in her – she seems as gay as ever – met me very affectionately and speaks of you in terms of unbounded kindness – she infinitely prefers Sydney as a place of residence to Parramatta – She told me she did not think it at all improbable that Mr. & Mrs. Davidson would take a trip to the Colony – if the former came & settled his affairs here it would be prudent perhaps – but to bring

[Page 264]

Mrs. Davidson would be an undertaking – and painful to leave – or to bring a young family –

Alas Mr. Watson Taylor!! I cannot bear to think of his present situation – nor of his ill-used amiable family – he must have been under mental delusion respecting his own affairs that overweening ambition to be raised to the Peerage, helped to overset his reasoning powers

Cases of this kind have been opened to my view within the last few months – of the existence of which, I had no previous conception The malady of your poor father having led us naturally to read on subjects of mental aberration. –

Monday Morning Jany. 7th. The “Arundel" is dropping down the harbour – her Agent Mr. Sparks desires our letters to be sent before 10 o clock – I must therefore hastily conclude – I fear there are no letters from you dear dear Edward – Mr. Bowman has received one from Mr. Buchanan with some Papers to the 18th Augst. – I trust you are well. – Elizabeth is still here with me, where we continue to receive every Brotherly & Sisterly attention from Bowman & Mary – the two elder Boys

[Some images out of order. Letter concludes on page 273.]

[Page 265]

[Some images out of order. Section 4 of letter beginning on page 253; continued from page 260.]

26.11.32

4

as he appears to have been encompassed by – a ready and clear writer – and I thought quite a man of business. – poor poor human nature!! to our family indeed, as you justly observe, dear Edward, he has been a steady & kind friend.

It gratifies us to hear of all, that show you civilities – and we are particularly glad to hear of the Farquhar family – How is Mr. Bigge – Mr Riddel [Riddell] to whom he is known – calls here frequently – his Lady who is a genteel young person, was born at “Ceylon". She never was in England – she is the Daughter of Capn. Rodney many years Colonial Secretary at Columba [Colombo] – her mother was a near relation to the unfortunate Scotch Nobleman who lost his Life at Brussels when looking out at a Window amidst the Riots some yrs. since – the name I forget – Mr. & Mrs. Riddel were passengers in the Ship which Mr. Mathieson came here in – Mr. Riddle seems to wish for leave to go to England –

Have you ever seen any thing of the family of the late Mr. Balcomb – they naturally recur to my mind, when speaking of the Gentleman who now fills the place of Colonial Treasurer – a very different person in

[Page 266]

every respect is Mr. Riddel. –

When I had written thus far, I was summoned to the Drawing Room to see Major Crotty & Capn. Smyth They called to say that they are to Embark for Madras on Saturday next – and that they purposed going to Parramatta to morrow – to have some conversation with James, & take leave of some friends there – your Brothers have undertaken the charge of some funds left in this Country, for the benefit of Major Crottys little Girl – I told them I was writing to you – when both desired their affectionate remembrances – Major Crotty said his Daughter would be in London he expected, & he had desired Major [Rodney?] to let you know – as he was sure, your kindly feeling towards them, would be gratified by seeing this relick of their affections –

Mr. Bowman has engaged them to take a family Dinner here on Thursday – he is always kind to those whom you have regarded – I shall leave this to close – either after dinner – or in the morning – according as Mr. Lawrence may fix

[Page 267]

Therefore Good by’e for the present. I wish I knew where – and how – you are at this moment –

Monday Morning Novr. 26th
We had but just finished our breakfast – when we were sensible of the approach of a Carriage and in a moment – James – Emmeline & little James were at the door – all well – but warm and left your poor father composed – he knows of their coming to Sydney – I did not expect them, because the early dawn gave indications of a very warm day – They are now seated at Breakfast – and I, retire to add to my Scribble – Emmeline has brought such a fine branch of the “Bignonia Catalpa" in flower – gathered in front of the Cottage – and some flowers of the Native Cooramyn – which in leaf & flower much resemble your Arbutus" in the Botanical Garden –

I have now to thank you for the little Pocket Book

[Page 268]

the purchase from the Bazaar – it is curious to us – as being the work of her Majesty! – the other trifles cost you – I dare say – “more than enough" – but we will hope the money so raised, is well applied to Charitable purposes

As James will address a few lines to you from hence – and dear Emmeline also add a line to her Sisters communications or memorandums – I shall close this rambling Letter – requesting you will show any little civility you may be enabled to do – to Dr. Lawrence – who is really a Gentlemanly Man – and one Mr. Bowman thinks more highly of, since he has become better acquainted with him – and now, my dearest Edward, I can only add my prayers for your health & comfort and subscribe myself
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

(I do not know whether F. Thompson has written)

[End of letter of 26 November 1832.]

[Page 269]

[Some images out of order. Section 2 of letter beginning on page 253; continued from page 256.]

6.1-33 [Transcriber’s note: Date should be 26.11.32]

2

small assortments of “Musk Melon Seeds" – there was very little saved last year – & Williams seeds were destroyed by Mice – I hope these will enable you to gratify some of your friends The present Summer will I trust give us a better supply – and I should not wonder if we have finer flavored fruit – as the Spring has been very dry. –

I am sorry the coldness of Genl. Darlings manner disconcerted you – I must own I feel some kindness towards him – myself – perhaps he may not deserve it – but I think he was an honest man and intended well – dull – and a formalist in publick a Good Husband – and a most affectionate father he certainly is. – Govr. Bourke I have never yet seen, nor indeed any of his family – they are altogether singular in their [rudeness?] but I do not pretend to find fault – nor trouble myself by “motive hunting". – certainly I have not felt myself in circumstances to pay Ceremonious Visits – it would neither be decorous – nor consistent with right

[Page 270]

feeling that I should do so – the family enquire for your poor father – when they meet any one connected with us. – the Govr. his Son & Miss Bourke have lately returned from a tour to the Bathurst Country – they are now at the Parramatta House – and as the Staff have lately hired Cottages – and removed their families to them – it is conjectured the Governor will live at Parramatta chiefly. –

You will observe, my dearest Edward, what James writes of the present apparent amendment in your poor father – and I say how earnestly – how anxiously – I await the intelligence of every day – still it is under the firm belief that the delusions are not all dissipated – James has devoted himself to the painful duty, he has had to perform, with the most unwearied assiduity – I trust the next Ship will bring you some more certain intelligence. –

[Page 271]

in the mean time my dearest Son – let us trust in the goodness of the Almighty for support under all the misfortunes incident to us poor mortals and be truly grateful – for the portion of good we enjoy. –

I cannot help mentioning here a remark of your fathers on reading the acct. of Mr. Watson Taylors failure – and speaking of his thoughtless – and boundless extravagance he quickly said – “Why was not he put under restraint for Squandering his vast means"? I have forgotten what reply James made – but you observe the application he made – but Mr. W. T. did not abuse his family – nor accuse them of administring poison to him. – I will not dwell on this horrifying subject. –

I hope all the Letters I have written to you from this place will reach you – I think you will be tired of my scribble – I can only say, your Letters are of great comfort to me – and I am wishing for one every week – to keep up the chain of communication – I have been with

[Page 272]

you in imagination – in the tour you were contemplating to make into Wales with the amiable & good Marquis – when I opened the packet of notes, where some of the Marquis’s with the deep mourning border – I felt quite a Shock with the vague apprehension that his beloved mother was the cause – when the next minute that fear was removed by seeing the [Card?] of the “Dowager Marchioness" addressed to you – I feel a sentiment of love, & respect for that Lady – that I cannot very well define nor express. –

I see by a pamphlet you send, that Mr. Bannister is still prosecuting his appeal to the Ministers – and persecuting Genl. Darling – neither, is likely I should think, to be beneficial to Mr. Bannister unless they can give him some employment that may appease his feelings – and occupy his time. – Miss Harriet Bannister is married at Hobart Town – both Sisters are now setled

[Some images out of order. Section 3 of this letter begins on page 257.]

[Page 273]

[Some images out of order. Conclusion of letter on pages 261 to 264.]

6.1.33

are at present with Emmeline at the Cottage we expect she will bring them with her to morrow. – remember us all affectionately to all friends, - particularly to Mr. Scott & Davidson. – I could scribble on – so much is my heart relieved in conversing even in this way with my beloved son – God bless you and with every good wish for your health & happiness in which I am sincerely joined by Mr B. and your two Sisters believe me to be
My dearest Edward
yr. affect. mother
E. MacArthur

[Note written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth:]

Our beloved Mother has said all that it is in our power to communicate dearest Brother but I must add one line of affectionate [indecipherable] myself. We are anxiously looking for letters fm. you again God grant that you may he well – It has shocked us to see in a newspaper the death of Mr. Scott’s brother what a grief this would be to him! Our affectionate remembrances are [indecipherable] with him – God bless my brother dear
Yr. E MacA

[Page 274]

[Address; part struck through.]

Private

Major MacArthur
care of Messrs Herries Farquhar & Co
St James Street London

House of Lords

Received 23rd May 1833

[Page 275]

No. 30.

Sydney Saturday Feby. 9th 1833
Received June 22d

My dearest Edward/

Since my last letter to you, which was sent by the “Arundel" – a vessel which sailed from hence on the 7th of last month – we have had the pleasure to receive Letters from you – and a parcel containing the vols on secondary punishment – 3 months of the 1d. [Penny] Magazine (a most useful publication) some views & atlas’ – this parcel was by Dr. Logan & altho of old date – very acceptable. – We received Letters and a Box by Mr. Cunningham – who arrived on the 6th of last month – as we did not get the box immediately on the arrival of the Vessel – I could not have acknowledged it by the “Arundel" which sailed on the 7th

your Sisters thank you very much for the Muslins – which are declared to be of new pattern – and they arrived at a most seasonable time of the year – to make up accordingly each has appropriated two pieces – & made into dresses – very acceptable for the warm weather – all say – “Edward’s

[Page 276]

gifts are always well-timed". – having said that much – I will briefly sketch our present family position – promising first – we are all pretty well your poor father in perfect bodily health – and very tranquil – Dr. Wallace residing with him at the House – Mrs. Lucas & Emmeline at the Cottage – at present both James & William are at Camden the former went there the beginning of last week – William came to Parramatta for two days – but did not extend his visit to Sydney – he wrote you a short Letter enclosing a duplicate Bill of Lading of the wool embarked in the Brothers which will be sent by the “Cragevar" [Craigevar] – or City of “Edinburgh" – both about to Sail – as well as the Ship “Brothers". –

Mr. Bowman is on a bout of inspection at Hunters River – Mary and the two older Boys gone to pay a visit to “Aunt Lucas & Aunt Emmeline" – they set out Mary & Edward early this morning & are to stay until Thursday in next week – on friday Mr. B. is to return in the Steam Vessel of which there are two – going to & from Hunters River – what a change!! –

Elizabeth and myself are now (as you will perceive)

[Page 277]

keeping house at Woolloomalah – we have little William left with us – who is able to run about quite active – & is beginning to talk. – Emmeline came to Sydney early yesterday morning in the [Britsolver?] in expectation that Mary would have returned with her – she returned again in the Evening – bringing & taking back little James – she did not like to stay away from home – a night – in the absence of her Brothers – Emmeline is looking well & seemed very chearful. – I am happy to say. –

We expected Dr. Fairfowl would have gone in the Brothers – an indisposition prevents him – you are to have more detailed Letters by him from other members of the family – I fear I must tire you, by my frequent epistles – I can only say I feel so gladdened by the sight of your hand writing that I would hope you have something of the same sensation at seeing mine –

I have received a Letter from dear Lady Brisbane very lately – I will endeavour to write to her soon – in the mean time if you have any communication with the family pray notice it. – By a Ship just arrived from Madras Col. Monbeath has written to James acknowledging his Letter by “Colonel Macpherson. – Col Lindsay had not arrived when the Imogen [Imogene] Sailed – the

[Page 278]

Troop Ships parted company soon after they left Port Jackson – but I have heard they were spoken to after having passed the Torres Straits. – I know none of the Military stationed here at present –

Mr. Bowman & Mary have called on Mr. & Mrs. Dillon whom you introduced – I believe they are likeable persons – but I fear we have over many of the profession! it is remarked, that fewer cases on the Civil side of the Supreme Court were presented the last Session – than for many prior ones – I wish it could be said the same of the Criminal

How is our kind friend T.H.S – how often do I think of him – particularly in this House – and in this room – the Library – which was also his –

How is Walter Davidson – & his charming wife & their interesting family – I see the Macquaids occasionally & when Mrs. M visits me – we always talk of the Davidsons – Mr. Macquaids House is on the Hill immediately above, & at the Right of Woolloomallah. – there are many handsome Houses on this hill – respectably inhabited.

God bless you my dearest dear Edward – prays
Your ever affect. mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 279]

9.2.33

It is a source of great comfort to me – to hear from you, through my early friend Mr. Kingdon that my dear aged Parent is so well situated – you are of course aware, that I have discontinued corresponding with any one in Devon – it must not be inferred from thence – that I am unmindful. –

The Roslyn Castle with Irish Prisoners arrived this week – having sailed from Dublin so late as the 8th of October – she has brought few letters – but there is intelligence that the Prince Regent sailed from London on the 7th of October – we hope for letters from you by her – & wish she may make a quick Passage. – We shall be glad of one [order] – for habiliments – Cloaths will wear out and particularly Shoes – pacing the Stone Verandahs and gravelly soil about Sydney –

You sent me some very good Clogs (not french) some time since – they are now nearly done – I can get none like them here – they were “Spring Clogs" light & yet Strong - do send me me some more –

Mrs. King the Elder has been to see me – she is looking surprizingly well – as does her Son – the latter is disappointed at the state of his concerns here – Beef & Mutton – are of little value

[Page 280]

[Cover and address sheet; note written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth, beginning on the lower panel.]

A cask of Earth was forwarded by the Wool Ship. It will come by Dr. Fairfowl.

My beloved Brother
A few lines only in the cover as usual! believe me my heart is with you but I cannot write there is nothing of importance to tell that James or our beloved Mother do not communicate. It is of benefit to the latter to write to you

Enclosed with this is a letter from Emmeline – you would observe her mention of our poor father – she was here yesterday & told me much of him – His health is perfectly good – but his mind upon some points still alas! for fear [indecipherable] God enclose him is our constant prayer – but I must not speak on this subject – I pray that [indecipherable] the dreadful darkness that has surrounded your dr. own health has been spared
fm yr. E Mac

[Address:]
Private

Major MacArthur
Care of Messrs Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James Street
London

[Page 281]

No. 31

Wolamalloo Sunday 3rd March 1833

Having just been told by our friend Macalister that the “Mountaineer" a vessel belonging to Aspinall & Brown Merchants – is to sail this Evening for Liverpool – I am induced to write a few lines although I have nothing of a very particular nature to communicate. – we have written lately by the “Craigevar" [Craigievar] – by the “Brothers" & other vessels but it is always uncertain whether those which first sail – will first arrive – and generally speaking those ships which make the Shortest Passage – fail in bringing us Letters. – I have just heard of the arrival of the “Gulnare" at the Derwent sailed from England the 1st Novr. & the “Caroline" for Sydney had sailed nine days previous – such is the intelligence brought by some of the many trading little vessels between Sydney and the Southern Settlements – we have received your Letters of the 19th Sepr. and those by the “Prince Regent" dated early in October – also the Archdeacons Letter to your father – all most acceptable – we are amused by your account

[Page 282]

of your [indecipherable] excursion. – whether it has been accepted by Ld. Hill – will be known ere this. –

I am, as you will perceive, still at Sydney – and Elizabeth also – your dear father however is so much better – that we hope to return home very shortly – he is becoming daily more himself and delusions are fast subsiding. – this I know will be most comfortable intelligence to you.

Emmeline spent the whole of last week with us – she came from Parramatta on Monday Evening bringing with her little James – your Brother James came for her yesterday – they are both well your Brother in particular is very much improved since your poor father has become placid & kind to him again – William is at Camden and well, when we last heard of him. – he has much to occupy his time, which I believe rarely hangs heavy with him – it is now the Season of Vintage – and he is busied with the Building which I am told, is advancing – greatly – and without making a “raree show" and talk!

The “Prince Regent" had the small pox amongst the Passengers on her Voyage – which has obliged

[Page 283]

her to be placed in “Quarantine" – so that we are pleased that our order was not ready to be shipped by her – She has been in harbour about a fortnight – Mr. Bowman – visited the Quarantine Ground yesterday, in company with Dr. Fairfowl and some other Medical Men to constitute a Board Dr. Fairfowl breakfasted & dined here – we chatted of you last Evening – he has promised to take charge of a Cockatoo for you – the Sovereign is to Sail about the 20th of this month –

Hannibal and his family are all well – Mrs. & her Grandaughter Elizabeth Macarthur are at Windsor on a visit to Mrs. Brabyn – Capn. King & family at Dunheved his residence on the South Creek Strathaird – came to Sydney to give Evidence at the court of criminal jurisdiction against certain Bushrangers – who were however found guilty without his testimony – he obtained leave to remain at Head Quarters a week or two – he is now about to return & leaves Sydney some time to-day. he is most gratified to hear of you – and very thankful for your attentive kindness to his Brother. – Frederick

[Page 284]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

Thompson is at Camden – I am not aware whether or no he intends to extend his visit further – I observe what you say of W.S.D. and Belmont it is just my thoughts on the subject – a certain mercantile feeling – not easily described – [I] am of opinion the Land offered in exchange is more valuable to him – and in itself of better quality than Belmont.

I was very glad to hear of Mr. Bigges recovery and that he was enabled to recreate in the Country I do not doubt he and THS think of us sometimes. I am much gratified to find our friend is so happy amongst his simple minded & honest Parishioners – our present Archdeacon & his family are absent at Van diemens land – on a visitation – He has written a Pamphlet – on some points of Controversy – occasioned by a Letter from Sir Ed. Perry [Sir William Edward Parry] to Mr. Thery [Therry] wherein he gives reasons for declining to subscribe toward the completion of the Catholic Church – Mr. Therry published Sir Edwards Letter – Mr. Broughton the aforesaid Pamphlet – and now I

[Crossed section:]
perceive there is notice given of another publication by Mr. R. Therry –

It is a very warm oppressive day which makes me dull & languid accept this as an excuse for a very stupid letter from which I will relieve you by adding the Love of every member of the family here to you with every good wish for your health and welfare – ever
My dearest Edward
your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

Thanks for your communication from Devon.

[Page 285]

3.3.33

We are very much pleased with the “Penny Magazine" and so is your father – as James & Emmeline tell me. –

I wish you would have the goodness to send us a “British Peerage" I often wish to refer to it – make a memorandum of it

Mrs. Bennet is quite well – She often mentions you & your kindness – lives with the Moores – Moore himself waits upon your father –

[Page 286]

[Address, part crossed through:]

Private

Major Macarthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James s Street
London

House of Lords

[Page 287]

No. 1

No 32

Woolloomullah
Sunday 10th March 1833

My dear Edward

I write a few lines by the “Norfolk" a ship of Messrs. Buchanan & Lamb – to assure you we are well and much in the same way with respect to family affairs, as when I last wrote by the “Mail" about a week or ten days since

Mr. Bowman was ordered to Parramatta yesterday, to be examined respecting the Prince Regent – under Quarantine The Governor, who is confined to Parramatta in consequence of a fall from his Horse, believes the advice of his Council upon all matters of publick import – and I believe, the medical men, think from the precautions that have been taken the Ship may with safety be released – The Surry [Surrey] with female prisoners from Cork (the 15th Novr.) arrived yesterday I have heard of no news by her – Frederick Thompson came to Sydney on Friday Eveng. slept here & returned to Parramatta last Eveng. he is looking very well and seems quite cheerful, he begged

[Page 288]

his kind remembrances to you, & told me of having received some flower roots & seeds from [indecipherable] he tells me, he has a garden fenced, & planted with fruit-trees – vegetables &c – and that flowers are not forgotten – he has been spending a week or more at Camden – came to Parramatta and staid there a day or two – before he came here – your brother James accompanied your Highland friend MacAlister as far as Camden on Monday last – he remained there until Thursday Eveng. – William is quite well and fully occupied – as he will tell you himself by Dr. Fairfowl who since my last has spent another day here – he has had an attack of illness, from which he is now quite recovered, & he is looking much better than he has done before since his return – Hannibals family are now all at home – and well, he is about

[Page 289]

to commence building a large House at the Vineyard – The Doctor disapproves of the Situation

your poor father, I am told, by turns, rails at the House-building at Camden – and then commands – wishing it to be forwarded with all convenient dispatch – still he declines going to see what is doing – if he would be prevailed upon to go to Camden for a short time – I might then return to Parramatta – and make there the best arrangement we could – it is the opinion of every person, conversant in the nature of your poor fathers Malady that removing into an entire new scene, would be the most salutary to him – and therefore every inducement has been held out – to make him desirous to visit Argyle – MacAlister has the means of comfortably accommodating him at his residence at “Goulbourne plains" – from whence he might diverge in a variety

[Page 290]

of directions – a short distance only from Fredericks “Rhyanna" – Hannibals comfortable Establishment at “Arthursleigh" – our own Taralga – and a variety of other places quite new to your father – and where he would not be likely to meet with any thing, or person, to cause any irritable feeling, or any undue excitement. –

he received Frederick very kindly – and asked a variety of questions of him, as to his own affairs, as well as of Camden – and what was doing &c &c? betraying great suspicions of & dislikes to, persons – without cause – on the whole Frederick says – altho’ very much improved – he perceives that your poor Fathers delusions are not set aside – he seems to desire publicity – rather than quiet, which is not the best sign of amendment – still we hope!! –

[Page 291]

20.3.33

2

I was too late in finishing my letter which was intended to go by the “Norfolk" She sailed on Monday morning – and encountered the “Andromeda" just without the Heads. Dr Boyter called with your most welcome packet, & staid for dinner. The next morning he sent the Box of Books & parcel – of which I apprized James by Post & he came to Sydney & took charge of them himself – Dr. Boyter as well as ourselves were mortified at the loss of the Plants – a heavy Sea which the Ship encountered soon after leaving England washed everything off the Poop – Poultry as well as Plants. – it is useless to dwell on these disappointments – Mr. Boyter assures us they will be cheerfully replaced by the Lodiges [Loddiges] who are very liberal people – he gave us most satisfactory accounts of yourself of your apartments – of your kindness in bestowing tickets of Admission to the

[Page 292]

Painted Chamber – to some Scotch Ladies of his acquaintance – where they saw the Kings Majesty!! and all the Paraphanalia! – which he says will afford them a subject to talk of as long as they live." – thus it is dearest Edward, that you oblige, so many friends –

Three days after the arrival of the “Andromeda" the “Caroline" came to anchor in the Cove and we have the pleasure to thank you for our letters by her – altho’ of prior date – they were very acceptable – and one to myself in particular, which contained details – very interesting – we have now to look for the “Lunar – and excepting what may be in that vessel – we have received every thing – very correct of which you have advized us – to the time of the departure from London of Dr. Boyter – indeed several of your

[Page 293]

letters by him were forwarded from Brighton where you had rejoined the respected family of the Marquis – I had almost forgotten to say that the Ladies Maid has not yet made her appearance – perhaps she has changed her mind – this letter is to go by our friend Dr. Fairfowl in the Sovereign – as William writes – & Emmeline – I shall not enlarge much – Mr. Bowman purposes addressing a few lines to you – and perhaps Elizh. will. – I have already in former letters acknowledged & thanked you, in the name of your Sisters for the Coloured Muslins which arrived at an acceptable time of the year – our Midsummer. –

Sunday 24th
The Sovereign will Sail on Tuesday morning at daylight – such is Mr. Bunns message to me – Dr. Fairfowl is not yet come from the Vineyard – nor do I suppose he will set [out] before to morrow – I understand he is to give up a large

[Page 294]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

and commanding Cabin that had been assigned to him to Dr. & Mrs. Wilson – who have just returned from Hobart town.

To return to your letters by the “Caroline" – poor Mrs. Watson Taylor!! – I shall be solicitous to hear how she sustains her bereavement of a beloved Son – her
John – the short letter of Simons to Sir T Farquhar – is very affecting Mrs. W. T. will feel the loss very severely I doubt not – Thank the kind Marquis for his mention of me – it cheers me to hear of the good health of the family – and I am particularly pleased when I hear of your meeting his respected mother the Dowager Marchioness – and now what shall I say

Mr. Bowman writes to T.H.S – I have read his Letters in the Times – in a great passion at the conclusion of one – [“Pepper & Maston"?] We think of him here – very very often he has a benevolent heart – be assured. –

Mr. Broughton is still in Van diemens land on a visitation

[Crossed section:]
his family now with him – there is a great theological contest at present here – between the Roman Catholicks & our Established Church – I dare say some of the pamphlets will find their way to England –

I shall here close this – praying that this may find you – well and chearful – hoping for the best
ever my dearest Edward
your affect. Mother
E MacArthur

[Page 295]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

No. 175

Woolloomallah April 10th [In pencil:] 1833

My dearest Edward

I address a few lines to you by the “Wellington" a Brig – which Mr Lambe assures a messenger I sent to ascertain, will positively sail to-morrow – she belongs to Messrs Lamb & Buchanan and may probably arrive before the “Edward Lombe" which is to sail on Sunday next in her there are several Passengers – and a Mr. Watt Surgeon R N – who has kindly promised to take our letters – and those things from Woolloomallah, which were most vexatiously left behind – and ought to have gone by Dr. Fairfowl in the Sovereign how this arose I can hardly tell you –

Dr. F. had dined here the Evening before the vessel sailed – Mr. Bowman accompanied him to the Boat – & saw him off to the vessel – it was night – and the commander said he should not sail before

[Crossed section transcribed on page 298:]

[Page 296]

ten o’clock in the morning – Mr. Bowman under this impression – desired the “Hospital messenger" to be here for the purpose of taking the “Cockatoo" & parcels (which were all ready) on Board at nine o clock when behold just at that hour the Sovereign passed the Bay – in fine style – our things were sent off by a Boat which followed to the Heads – to no purpose – they were all returned Cockatoo &c &c – I know not whether the Bird will be taken on board the Edwd. Lombe – and thus ends my tale and our great disappointment – in which I feel assured Dr. Fairfowl will participate for he most kindly wished to take all that we solicited him to take charge of for you. – some preserved native [Carrots?]

[Page 297]

which Emmeline had prepared – were destroyed in the hasty pursuit by the Boat – Case & Jars got smashed! – this is a trifle which I should not have noticed, but that you will find a reference to the Case of preserves in her letter

But enough of this – and what have I now to tell you? but that we are all pretty much in the same state – as when the Sovereign Sailed – I have a letter from James to-day he says his poor father is in the same way – in very good health – but not other wise better. – James devotes himself entirely to him – seldom leaving him an hour – William is expected from Camden to stay a few days – I therefore hope to see one or both of them some day this week – Mr Bowman left us on Monday – on a tour of Medical Inspection – intending to proceed to

[Page 298]

Bathurst – he will be absent at least a fortnight. – Mr. Boyter accompanied him last week to Liverpool and Windsor

We are all pretty well – the dear Boys merry and good. Mrs. Lucas and Emmeline were well this morning – having heard from them by the Post of today –

We are looking out somewhat impatiently for the arrival of the Lunar – not exactly for the finery – but for some useful things – such as Shoes &c &c that we are in want of. – James received a letter from Mr. Simes by the Dryade the contents of which pleased your poor father very much as James wrote to me Mr. Simes remarked it seems (for I have not seen the letter) that you were still at Brighton. – I did not intend to make this a double letter I

[Transcription of crossed section from page 295.]

have, unwillingly done so –

There is another Ship besides the Edward Lombe – said to Sail in a few days – either Elizabeth or myself will write by that conveyance also – Both your Sisters unite in every tender and affectionate wish for your health and comfort – with
My dearest Edward
your ever affect. mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 299]

[Note.]

Edward Lombe, ship, sailed April 15, 1833
Dr. Boyter sailed in ship Hashmy [Hashemy], May 3, 1833

[Page 300]

April? – May 1 (1833?)

I hope poor Mrs. Bennets papers will have reached you safe and no further delay take place – with respect to the legacy – she is very well and living comfortably with the Moores – John Moore has been in constant attendance on your poor father for the last few months – their eldest Daughter Betsy is here in attendance on the Children – a very good girl Their eldest Son – William apprenticed to a Joiner now employed in building or rather finishing a

[Page 301]

House for Mr. & Mrs. Copland Lethbridge on the South Creek: – very near Capn. Kings residence named Dunheved the ancient Borough name of Launceston in Cornwal.

1st May.

I found the above scrap in my Portfolio – it was part of a letter intended to have been given to Dr. Fairfowl – the history of our disappointment you will some time receive by Dr. Watt – I hope. –

[Page 302]

he sailed in the Edward Lombe about a fortnight since & has in charge a long Letter from Elizh. to you – a letter from me (but whether long or short truly I forget) a Letter from Mr. Bowman to you – one from him to our kind friend THS a little Box of Insects of Edwards collecting in the Garden – and a few Seeds of Native plants

[Page 303]

Mr. Boyter thinks the Hasmy [Hashemy] will reach home – before the Edwd. Lombe – he recommended me to make this memorandum. – he is acquainted with Dr. Watt – and saw our packets carefully disposed in the Cabin of the latter but at the time he has no idea of going so soon himself – Once again God bless you
E M

[Page 304]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 38

Wednesday 1st May 1833

My dearest Edward

The sudden departure of Dr. Boyter – only allows me time to thank you for your letters by Dr. Rutherford – and to assure you – we are all well your poor father at Camden with dear William of his removal there last week – the Correspondence – No. 1. will show you – and as Elizabeth sat up last night to write I know she will have given you a long detail – which

perhaps may cause your Eyes a little suffering to decypher – having done so – I trust your mind will in some measure be set at rest as to the measures that have been [pressed?] towards your poor father
be assured he suffers little or no mental disquietude – on the contrary his spirits are

but generally too volatile & high –
Thank you my beloved Son for the trouble you have taken in copying the Letters from Devonshire I cannot reply to them now – your answers were prudent & just what I could have wished. –
There will be a Ship Sailing in the course of a few days – on Board of which the

remainder of the Wool is to be Embarked it is Warehoused at Sydney ready for that purpose. – the Ship is the Mary – said to sail on Sunday – your Brother was to have been at Sydney yesterday – the note I enclose from Emmeline will show Mr. Bowman and Mary were at Parramatta

[Crossed section:]
on Saturday and returned Sunday Evening – the former went on Saturday to wait on the Governor – on some publick business – he having been on a tour of Inspection to various parts of the Country – & latterly to Bathurst – the Governor returned friday from an Excursion to Hunters River. – Mary took the opportunity

to visit dear Emmeline & pass a night with her – I hope to return home in about a week – when the House is a little put to rights. – and that we may feel that it is home – I should not like even the appearance of running away from Woollomalah

immediately on your fathers going to Camden – I have been here just twelve months – it was the 2d of May when I left Parramatta –
Here is Mr. Boyter – he comes to shake us by the Hand – & say that he will look well to the Cockatoo – which is already gone on its way to the Ship – Mr. Boyter

tells me – there is a very fine collection of Plants – sent him by Capn. Cluny from Moreton Bay which he takes charge of for the Lodiges [Loddiges] – Mr. Macleay is arranging them in the Boxes &c. – And now God bless you my beloved Son
Prays your ever affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 305]

[For transcription see page 304.]

[Page 306]

[For transcription see page 304.]

[Page 307]

[For transcription see page 304.]

[Page 308]

No. 34

Sydney May 9th 1833

My dearest Edward/

I am induced to write to you by the “Mary" because she takes the remainder of the Wool of 1832 – and I am in the habit of writing by our Wool Ships and also that there is a chance she may arrive before the “Hashemy" and the “Edward Lombe" by both of which we have written – the Hashemy only sailed on Saturday last Dr. Boyter has pretty voluminous dispatches from us – and he was kind enough to take charge of the Cockatoo for you – which should have gone by the “Sovereign" & Dr. Fairfowl. –

James left this place to return to Parramatta last Evening – we have had a note from Emmeline by the Post to day saying that they were well that you Brother was writing dispatches for Camden & about to expedite a [Cask?] by “John Toby" as of old. – the last accounts from thence were that your poor father was amusing himself with the Building & seemed very well and quite cheerful – although complaining of his removal there, to any casual visitors that

[Page 309]

would listen to him – it was quite a necessary measure, and I feel assured he will be much benefitted by the change. – Hannibal breakfasted here this morning – his family are all well and he requests to be kindly remembered to you –

Mrs. Lucas purposes visiting us to morrow & to remain a night James having promised to stay with dear Emmeline until she returns – on Saturday James has engaged to drive Dr. Rutherford to Windsor – he was the bearer of Letters from “Sir Charles Forbes" to Mr. Fitzgerald on some business connected with the Executorship to the late Governor Macquarie – Fitzgerald I believe proves himself to be the most faithful agent to Mrs. Macquarie & her Son Lachlan of any that have undertaken to look after the property in this country left by the Governor –

Dr. Rutherford delivered all your letters immediately on his arrival – I will not say how anxious I am to receive letters from you of a later date when your mind I trust will be more calm and resigned on the subject of your poor fathers Mental Malady – we must bear

[Page 310]

the affliction. I assure you my dear dear Edward that at times I can hardly believe what has happened. I have been banished from home a year – Elizabeth also – still we have endeavoured to cheer each other, and by frequent communication with the dear inmates of the House & Cottage at Parramatta have kept up our spirits – from dear Mary & her kind Husband – we have had all the support that affectionate kindness could bestow – attention to the dear Boys & their tuition is a pleasing occupation to Elizabeth and I have the pleasure to say that Edward is profitting by her instruction James is only now a beginner. – it is at present our intention to return to Parramatta in the course of a week or ten days – I did not think it right to hurry home immediately after your poor father had quitted the House – and besides there were a few arrangements necessary to be made for our comfort – which dear Emmeline is busying

[Page 311]

herself to do. –

I am pleased to learn that Davidson has returned – I hope Mrs. Davidsons health will in future be better established – I observe her Brother has a better appointment at Ceylon

Dear THS how kind was his letter to your poor father! The manner in which it was received by him, you will find narrated in some of the correspondence already forwarded – tell Mr. Scott Mr. Bowman has made a purchase from Charles Cowper of that part of the Glebe Land he purchased from the Church 37 Acres I think – he purposes to commence Building on it immediately – indeed it is time Mr. Bowman should have a residence of his own near his duties – and not be put to the expence of renting a House at £20/ [?] a year – this Land is all fenced and an excellent Garden already formed, & in Cultivation on it.

[Page 312]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

9.5.33

our friend will perfectly remember the place – where Charles Cowper himself once thought of Building a Cottage something in the style of Mrs. Lucas’s – The Archdeacon Broughton & his family are still at Hobart town – I shall be glad when they return. – Many thanks for your attention in copying the Letters from Devonshire, your replies to them was prudent & what I could wish –

The Lunar has not yet arrived we are a little inconvenienced for want of the supplies and James has been obliged to purchase some necessaries in the way of warm clothing for the Stockmen as the cold weather is setting in – I fear she is making a trading voyage – Mr. Bunn expresses disappointment by her tardiness he begs his compliments – Mrs. Bunn is just confined of a Daughter – they had before two Sons – we hear from India that Col Macpherson is returning to England – and

[Crossed section:]
that Col. Lindsay has a command – having written you so very lately and at so much length I shall conclude this little letter by wishing you all the happiness and comfort we poor mortals ought to expect in this changeable world – Mr. Bowman Mary Elizabeth and the Boys send their affectionate love
We talk of you frequently – think of you still more. – Believe me ever
My beloved Edward
your affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 313]

[Address]

Private

Major Macarthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James’s Street
London

[Page 314]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. The first three pages transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 35

Woollomallah 25th May 1833

My beloved Edward/

I write a few lines to accompany a letter from James, which he sent me from Parramatta, to be forwarded by the Dryade – said to sail to morrow morning for London direct – your Brother was about to set out for Camden, when he wrote, & by a communication from Emmeline – just this minute received – I find he did so – you will I trust have received all our various Letters & communications – pretty regularly – you will learn from those, that your poor father was removing to Camden – a short time since – and although he went with apparent unwillingness – he is there enjoying himself very much – taking great interest in the building – the Garden – & Horses – I do not hear that he makes any enquiries or notices any thing relative to the Sheep – Dr. Hill has been to see him and Mr George Macleay several times – but no stranger – consequently he has quieted himself

to a better state of mind – and with respect to bodily health – William writes that he never knew him so well – never having recourse to any medicine whatever he Eats – Sleeps – & looks well. We are very anxious as to the result of dear James’s visit – more for his own rather, poor fellow – than from any other any other cause as he frets under the vehemence of your poor fathers expressions of wrath – and can hardly be persuaded of the distinction between – and anger – when expressed towards himself – in all the bitterness too which your your poor father can readily call to his aid. – It had become absolutely necessary the removal – where no Strangers were in the Vicinity – at Parramatta from the time Dr. Wallace left your father, he seemed desirous to cultivate the society of the Officers and dear James thinking no harm would ensue – gave into the Measure. They were frequently invited to dinner – and at length

it became an every day business going into the Town and bringing some of them home – Whilst we were still kept at a distance – a medling Person named Dickinson was one of the chosen associates – a Man not respected – and a Stranger in this Colony – this person and another who is considered to be his Dupe (Dr. Forster) have caused some annoyance to your Brother – & they are suspected to be the authors of a Letter signed “Observer" which was sent to two of the Newspapers for Publication last week – the Australian published an [edited?] Copy – the Herald declined. Your Brother called on the different Editors they all behaved very well – and so indeed has every one whose good opinion is valuable – You will see the Papers & have all the details by the first opportunity – in the mean time dearest Edward – he comforted and join us in prayers, for support where only

[Crossed section:]
it is truly & permanently to be found –
James received a letter from Colonel Lindsay last week – he was in good health and says the Regt. had only lost three men from the time of their Embarkation – he says all the Horses arrived safe and were much admired – he mentions you with his wonted friendship & requested to be remembered to you – he was about to have a command in the interior – I have not seen dear Emmeline since I last wrote to you – she is still busying herself in getting the House in better order – Mrs. Lucas has been with us and spent a day or two – Mrs. King the Elder, is in Sydney on a visit to Mrs. Jones where she is to stay until after the celebration of H M Birthday at Govt. House in the Evening of Tuesday next – I am told there are five hundred Cards of invitation gone forth!! We are invited as a thing of course – Mr. Bowman will attend – I believe James has explained every thing to Mr. Bourke – Mary and Mr. Bowman met Mrs. King at Mrs. Macquaids the day before yesterday She has promised to spend a day here before returning

to Parramatta – Mrs. Phillip King has presented her husband with a Daughter born this day week – there are already seven sons – this is the first Daughter – young Elizabeth is staying with her Aunt during the time of the confinement – which is – as it should be – I do not understand that any of the girls are coming to the Ball – only Grandmama –
I yesterday drove out to Mr. Bowmans new purchase – that part of the Glebe sold by the Church Committee to Chas. Cowper – THS knows all about it – it is a pretty sight site for a House & there is already a very good Garden & Paddocks – all well fenced – the Spot is now being cleared from Brush Wood & Trees – on which the Building of the House is to be commenced immediately – it is a subject of wonder to me to see how quickly Houses are raised – and made habitable in the neighbourhood, and Town of Sydney. – Mrs. and the Miss Macleays called on us yesterday – they are about to [build on their beautifully Embellished property at Elizabeth]

build on their beautifully Embellished property at Elizabeth Bay – not a mile from Wollahmallah – I shall say nothing of the House your Zealous & industrious Brother William has got into such a state of forwardness at Camden – Mr. Bowman says, it will be respectable & good family House – and that there are some apartments in it – nearly ready to accommodate your father – with which he has expressed himself highly pleased – and has desired a Bath to be attached – to one – he spoke himself to the Architect (Mr Verge) on the subject – I doubt not William has written to you about all these things –
I am most anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next letters from you – the last we recd. were by Dr. Rutherford – who again takes his departure in the Mangles next week “Via Canton" – he is to dine here to morrow and to take our commands as he is pleased to say – James has taken him on a drive to Windsor where they staid two nights – You will be sure to see the Doctor

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[Continuation of letter and address panel. Written and then crossed at 90° to the original script. Begins on lower part of page, then upper part, then crossed section, beginning in the right-hand panel. Lines don’t align from left to right panel.]

on his return to London – he has expressed himself so much gratified by your attention to him – Elizabeth wrote you at great length, by Dr. Watt who sailed in the Edward Lombe . I rather feel she will have a tedious passage – like the long expected Lunar which has not yet arrived – we have heard she was obliged to touch at Pt. Dalrymple being in distress for provisions – this intelligence come by the Westmoreland – which Vessel arrived here this day week – Mr. John Steven – of well known Colonial Celebrity & his family were among the Passengers – he is to be one of the Editors of the Australian – his Brother Francis resigns to him – Remember us all most kindly to T.H.S and to Davidson & his family – say all that is kind – & what you

[Crossed section:]
may deem agreeable from us to them A Pony was brought from Parramatta yesterday for Edward – he had a saddle & bridle by his fathers order sent by Mr. Buchanan It is a beautiful little Animal – and Mr. Riddle our Treasurer – is just now adjusting the said trappings and the Childrens Papa & Mama also are looking on & admiring. Mr. Riddle is accustomed to the [Menage?] – he is a gentlemanly person & on very good terms with your Brothers – I can only say that we are all pretty well and beg you to accept our most affect. love and every good wish for you dearest Edward & for all those kind & thoughtful friends who are attentive to you – Ever your affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Address:]

Private

Major Macarthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James’s Street
London

25th May

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No. 36

Parramatta Sunday 29th Sepr. 1833

My dearest Edward/

I now address you from our beloved home to which I believe, it is three months since my return to it and in this time I have not once written to you but Elizabeth has – and James also – scarcely any Eligible conveyance has in this period offered and to our annoyance one direct Ship departed without our having been apprized of her intention whilst James was in Argyle – Since my return to Parramatta – we have received the various commissions by the Lunar – every thing was in excellent order and but for the Cost would have been very Satisfactory

In the Groceries sent by [Haines? Harris?] there was many breakages which besides the loss of which was broken injured many other things – in future I think we must content ourselves with what is to be purchased here – but of this I do not mean at present to speak decisively. –

My Spectacles answer exceedingly well, the Scissors were a little rusty – not so the pen knives – thank you for your trouble in the purchase

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I paid Mary duly the Cost of this little commission you will have been told of your said dear Sister Marys disappointment in some things of her order, sent by the Lunar – and the whole of the Childrens – every article was too small – I do not know what she has done with them. –

The flannel you sent us, I think beautiful it seems to wash well, it is very soft – and I hope your waistcoats will wear well – as I conclude you had some made from the Piece as you mentioned having taken a portion from it – what we received measured thirty two yards. – Having said thus much on orders & commissions – I will turn to other subjects – to all of us more interesting – and first let me mention your poor father with whom I have had no immediate communication – nor can I learn that he has made but one enquiry about me – and that was a question to Mr. Mathew Macalister – “whether he had seen me" he continues to enjoy very good health – only

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occasionally complaining of Rheumatism – Capn. King and his Son John spent a day or two at Camden on their way to & from Argyle where they went to Select Land – your father received them very kindly on both occasions – and seemed very much pleased with John King. – Hannibal set out for his Establishment in Argyle on Wednesday last, he called to take leave of us the Evening before and seemed very apprehensive about going to Camden – however he determined to make the experiment and we have the pleasure to hear by a letter from dear William – that He was well received – and that your father talked to him a great deal on various subjects – and that after having spent one day at Camden in this agreeable & satisfactory manner He proceeded on his journey much cheered and gratified. – Maria came to see us yesterday and James junr. (who is become a fine young man) dined with us – your Brother James

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has only returned here about a week – since his trip into Argyle – he and Emmeline are now gone to Church. Elizabeth & her nephew Edward are reading in the Drawing Room whilst I am sitting apart scribbling to you – my hand sticking to such a degree that I am fearful I cannot make myself intelligible to you – the weather is very warm and enervating – and very dry – the Country suffering from want of rain – and a continuance of parching land-winds – we had hoped the Equinox would have brought a change – and still we hope we may be favored with rain ere long. –

We received all your Letters by Mr. Leckie and the Box of Books quite safe – he is to sail for Hobart town to day where he is to proceed to Madras with some part of the 63d Regt. Mrs. Leckie dined & slept here on Thursday last

Mr Bowman (who has been attentive to him) was here at the same time – your Brother James accompanied him half way to Sydney and

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29.9.33

2.

furnished a conveyance for the whole – we have learnt of the Death of poor Capn. Meyrick – which will probably give the promotion Mr. Leckie goes in to seek – and here let me pause to say that we were all grieved to learn the death of Mrs. Davidson – poor Walter – I would write to him – but feel that it would be tearing open those wounds of bitter feeling which time must in some measure have healed all who knew Mrs. Davidson lament her loss – & all concur in giving her that praise which bespeaks her to have been fitted for a happier state where all pain & every sorrow ceases. remember us all to him in the kindest manner – and with such tender consolations as may arise at the time which you who so well can judge may offer in our names The month of April has been a [blighting?] one – to us – & to our friends – God does not willingly afflict his Creatures – may we all bear the Chastening with a meek Spirit – and endeavour to amend our lives so that

when called hence, we may be ready to obey the awful summons. – James will write to Davidson
I cannot rally my spirits to write much to you in the way of news – Mrs. Bennet was with me on friday – She walked all over the garden & Elizh. gathered for her a beautiful nosegay of flowers We hope your next letters will notify a receipt of the Legacy so long deferred – by a combination of inauspicious occurrences – she is very grateful to you for the repeated trouble you have taken in the business – and always enquires for you & the “kind & good archdeacon Scott" – So does Murray & his wife [Nelly?] – & old [Nelly?] who is still alive & living with the Murrays at the Carters Barracks where Murray still continues to superintend. – [indecipherable] has departed this life – his wife reduced to a mere Shadow both the victims of inebriety!! – What has become of Jane [Mead?] no one has heard of her – and I fear she is not doing well. She

promised to write – but of course you can know nothing of her. We are very anxious for your next letters the last was dated the 25th April addressed to James – as there will be many vessels sailing for England I hope to write you again soon –
I believe I wrote to you from Sydney thanking you for the reply you had given to the Letters from Devonshire – it was prudent – and feeling likewise – I do not think under all circumstances that I should write – it is the family connexions which causes me to be silent. – My Mother is a truly surprizing Woman & I thank God that I have been enabled to assist her by such an addition to her income – which made her truly comfortable in her advanced age and amidst her own people – I could wish to continue the same allowance to my Sister for a time – if when it pleases God to take my Mother an Event to be looked for – where as she poor soul will then be deprived, I apprehend, of all income. – Dearest Edward – I know

your delicacy of heart will dictate to you the Embarrassment I feel – say every thing for me to the Kingdons – Mr. Boughton told me Miss Kingdon was married – is it so?
Marriages are rather prevalent here just now Miss Bourke is married to Mr. Deas Thompson [Sir Edward Deas Thomson]. There have been many others – but none of course of such conspicuous notoriety – I was going to say illustrious! –
We were gratified to learn your noble friends were well – thank the Marquis for his remembrances of me – I shall conclude this rambling Epistle by prayers for your health & well being and saying that
I am ever
your most Affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Note written by Edward’s sister Elizabeth:]
God bless my beloved Brother prays his attached Sister Eliz. MacArthur

[Transcription of crossed section from pages 322 and 323:]

I perceive I have omitted to name dear Mrs. Lucas – she would be very much annoyed to know that her kind & affectionate regards were not presented to you – and therefore I now cross my letter to tell you – how frequently you are the subject of our conversation – and particularly when we two old folks retire into a corner to “Gossip" – James [dear young man?] passes as much of his time with us as can be withdrawn from his many cares and avocations – William has only once been here since my return – his time & attention is so much engrossed at Camden – thank God he is quite well & looking so – as James tells me – Mary & her Boys have made us several visits – Emmeline continues to sleep at the Cottage – rises early & is with us – sometimes at seven – she has some Birds skins – & is busied in drying a few flowers to be forwarded to you when there is a Surgeon returning with whom Mr. Bowman is acquainted
Mrs. Lucas comes to us every day to dinner & remains according to circumstances – to sometimes ten oclock –

as James has written I believe at some length – he will not fail to give you the Gossip of the day – Cold as a twice told tale is always tedious – I shall end again Adieu requesting our united remembrances to T. H S. – I was sorry at the acct. you gave of Mr. Bigge

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Letters from my dear departed Mother during the years 1834 to 1838
EM

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[The first four pages of this letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original and transcribed here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

Copied

No.37

Parramatta Jany. 28th 1834

My dearest Edward/

you will have thought it long since you have been troubled to decypher my scribbles – I have not been enabled to write so frequently to you since my return to dear home – as when I was sojourning at Sydney – partly on account of a slight inflammation in my Eyes – and also that I am not so immediately in the way of the sailing of Ships – and old people require some time to collect all the materials together for writing a letter – Emmeline has just mended me two pens – and as we expect a visit from Dr. Roberts to-day to take leave I am solicitous to write my letter forthwith so that I may give it to him personally – he has promised to endeavour to see you, if you are in Town when he arrives –

I have delayed writing longer than I should have done in hopes of receiving later intelligence from you before the Auriga sailed – your last communication was addressed to me giving an account of your presence at an Archery and “fete" and of your intention to accompany Mr. Frith & his family on a ship to the Lakes of Killarny – which to us was most acceptable intelligence as it bespoke your perfect restoration of health & spirits – This was I think the 3d of August – in a letter of Mr. Buchanan to Bowman dated the 24th August he says “Major MacArthur is well at Thames Dutton" – we may therefore infer you made your excursion, and we trust you have laid in a stock of health and consequent cheerfulness of spirit.
We are all here, I am thankful to say – well
I enclose two Letters of recent date from dear William which will shew you the state

of things there better than any detail I can give – he has been spending a fortnight or perhaps a day or two more between this & Sydney James staying at Camden – Mr. James Macleay accompanied William from Camden the day before xmas day – Mr. Macleay proceeding on to Sydney to pass the holidays with his family – having done so – rejoined your Brother here staid a night & then returned to Camden together – the two accompanying letters indicative of cheerfulness & that the change & recreation was beneficial. Dear James did not come on the friday as William writes was his intention because Capn. King & his Son John with another gentleman had arrived at Camden in the mean time – staid two nights & on the Saturday morning James arrived quite well – & the other

Gentlemen had taken their departure from Camden at the same time James did – they to proceed to Argyle – where Capn. King is making a Stock Establishment – he paid me a visit about a fortnight since and made enquiries for you – Mrs. King the elder, we see frequently she desires her kind love to you – she is very active & visits about in a most wonderful way for an Elderly person – The Vineyard family are all well Annie & Kate were here yesterday they are quite young women – pretty & joyous – they have received letters from their Aunts written from Liverpool on their return from Westmoreland – speaking of the great kindness & attention Mrs. Grose was shewing them. – I often think of Mrs. Grose & former days – she has a fund of information, with such a portion of

[Crossed section:]

good sense, combined with a quick perception & love of the beauties of nature which as cannot fail to make her a most agreeable companion. –
Hannibal has commenced Building a House on a very extensive scale annexed to the present Cottage – I have not been to see it – having not yet had resolution to move about to make any visits I have plenty of exercise within the limits of our own Estate – & the looking about the Garden & Grounds annexed keeps me amused
I think of your poor father at Camden – and am pleased as he is or seeks to be to see a few persons here – but the effort to make visits abroad, & the apprehension of coming in contact with strangers – I have not been able to combat – people in the world would think this

a foolish feeling – and perhaps it is so –
Elizabeth and Emmeline have each been staying with Mary at different times – Bowman herself & the Children are well – Mary it is expected will soon add another to the number – we wish for a girl
little James has been staying with us several weeks he is a fine frolicksome little fellow. Edward is rather delicate – grows rather too rapidly for his strength – and is under his fathers care for the present – We hope he will recommence his Schooling again soon with the Revd. Mr. Forrest a most excellent person Master of the Kings School at Parramatta – I am vexed to have crossed my writing it confuses my own sight and it will be an infliction on your patience I fear – but I had determined on a letter of Chit Chat or Gossiping details, if

you please so to call them – I recollect dear THS disliked crossed writing – Apropos our present Archdeacon is soon to depart with his family for England – whether with the intention to return or not I have not heard Mr. Broughton preached at Camden a short time since and dined there. – they have expressed regret that circumstances should have prevented our more intimate and familiar intercourse. – Mrs. Broughton was very attentive to me at Sydney – She always expresses the most affectionate and grateful sense of Mr. Scotts kindness to them on their arrival in the Colony – & so indeed does Mr. B – I believe he is much dissatisfied with the Govr. & Chief Justice – His Excellency & family are residing at Parramatta in a very private way – Mrs. Deas Thompson has returned a visit your Sisters paid her since her marriage – The Governor I have never seen – I do not hear that he pays any visits of Ceremony

By a letter from Frederick Thompson to James – I perceive he is well & in good spirits – he writes from his Town residence Mr. Macalister has left Goulburn Plains to take command of the 1st Division of the Mounted Police at Bathurst his Brother Mathew superintends his farming concerns our friend has again distinguished himself by Capturing Bush rangers – a Party of whom have lately committed a variety of depredations amongst the number on a Stock Establishment of Capn. Kings – which they have pillaged of every thing useful they could take away in a short space of time they armed themselves & mounted on stolen Horses – They became terrible to the Lonely Settlers – I believe these marauders are now in safe custody. You will receive letters from Elizabeth and Emmeline – James of course – who I am gratified to say is recovering again his good looks & accustomed serenity of countenance – which had well night forsaken him during the arduous, & harrassing period of the last 18 months

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23.1.34

2

Whilst writing the within Dr. Roberts called to take leave – we had asked him to dine with us but he had declined a similar invitation at the Vineyard from Hannibal, on account of a pre engagement to meet Dr. Hill from Liverpool at Mr Andersons – there also your Brother James is invited to meet – these Gentlemen, of the healing art – at five o’clock to dinner – a very unusual hour of dinner to you – dear Edward!! We generally have our dinner at four – at which time Mrs. Lucas joins us from the Cottage & sometimes before – this said Cottage is now a pretty little place say to our friend THS how many things there are about it that remind us of him – the Trees he caused to be planted are flourishing & bearing fruit in abundance amongst the flowering tribe the Bignonia Catalpa was this Spring very splendid and attracted much admiration –! Emmeline continues still to occupy a sleeping room

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there – over the chimney piece hangs the portrait of the lamented Bishop Heber – I believe precisely in the same place it used to occupy – what more of home shall I tell you? – We are to have Steam Navigation between this & Sydney preparatory to which the Governor has engaged to have the River cleared from timber, mud, & other obstruction by means of such Convicts as have been guilty of Crimes in the Colony which subjects them to hard labour & confinement – a party are now on board a Boat moored off Red Bank on our Estate, where they have begun to clear the River –

Dear James will write to you on the subject of Mr. Davidsons Claim – and arrange that it may be setled forthwith – I am surprized indeed and have vexed myself about it – it was originated by me – & I thought I had provided for the payment. these things teach us to be

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cautious – Davidson has been to blame – not to have mentioned it before. I placed the Memorandum into your fathers hands, when he & your Brothers returned to the Colony after their long absence –

remember us kindly to WSD – I hear the Shares in the Company are raising in Value – on this I congratulate him as an extensive Share holder – Sir Edward Perry [Parry] will soon leave Port Stephens. I wish his successor Col D [Colonel Henry Dumaresq] may be as efficient – and equally Zealous for the interest of the concern –

Mrs. Bennett is made very comfortable & happy in her old age – she visits us often and always mentions her gratitude to you and makes frequent enquiries for Mr. Scott – of whose preaching – she with many others, was a great admirer. –

Not long since, I wrote to you of Devonshire and my wishes – that Mr. Kingdon should still receive the same sum to be applied to the uses of my Sister – in the event of my aged

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Mothers decease – but I am sure I might have trusted this arrangement to your affectionate feeling for me – as long as it shall please God to prolong the Life of my Parent – and in the possession of her faculties I shall be comforted. –

We send you a Post Office Directory – it is Edited or compiled by a Mr. Raymond the Post Master a Native of the Neighbourhood of Killarny – I hope you will not forget the Peerage I requested some time since –

Adieu Dearest dear Edward I will write again soon and not cross my writing which has plagued & irritated my vision – perhaps I may give Dr. Price a Letter – he is a lively person –

Emmeline is busy putting up a few flowers & Birds Skins – Elizabeth is writing – Believe me ever
My beloved Son
Yr. Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

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No. 173.

Parramatta
Wednesday 12th March [1834]

My dearest Edward/

I am altogether ignorant whether or no either of your Brothers will write by the present opportunity – William is now in Sydney – he came from Camden on Saturday – leaving James there quite well – I wish I could say the same of your poor father whose bodily health is nevertheless very good – but his mental aberration has again manifested itself – to the great grief of us all – and to the more immediate disquietude of James & William – it has been found absolutely necessary to impose a system of restraint again – the Cottage is relinquished to his use – your Brothers making use of a room or two at the back – a part

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of the New House will soon be tenable – Williams business at Sydney is to order & select some furniture – for two or three rooms. –

By the vessel about to Sail (the name I really have forgotten) the Archdeacon Mrs Broughton and their two Daughters are passengers also your friend Dr. Price (who has visited us two or three times and with whom we are much pleased. – these are the only Passengers. – the Archdeacon & his family called to take leave of us last week – when Mr. Broughton expressed a wish to be introduced to you – I write

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this, therefore, for that purpose he expects to return again, shortly – I am unacquainted with the objects of his voyage – but doubt not, it is in the hope to effect something beneficial to our community now increasing to a most surprizing degree. – Both Mr. & Mrs. Broughton took a very kind & friendly leave of us – & said they hoped to renew our acquaintance under more favorable auspices. They have never failed to express their [sense?] of our friend Mr. Scotts friendship to them and indeed every praise for the [unreserved?] exertions he must have made to bring the affairs

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of the Church Schools &c &c into the order they were –

Dearest Edward – I was here interrupted by a kind visit from Mrs. King accompanied by her Son-in law Mr. Copland Lethbridge – Mrs. King has been staying about ten days in the Country – between Mr Jones’s at “Fleurs" late Bayly Park and the South Creek – to morrow she goes with Hannibal to Sydney for the purpose of taking leave of Mrs. Broughton and perhaps she will convey this packet

I know it will be gratifying to you – to learn that we see her often – we always talk of you – of Davidson & old and dear friends

Adieu Dearest Edward for the present – believe me ever
Yr affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

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[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script. Crossed section transcribed on page 342.]

No. 38

Sydney – Sunday March 23d 1834

My dearest Edward/

I have the pleasure to acknowledge your letter to me of the 6th of Novr. by the “Planter" which I recd. yesterday – and to communicate to you the birth of a little Niece. I came from Parramatta on Thursday, Elizabeth accompanied me – but returned in the Evening, taking with her Edward – yesterday your dear Sister Mary was safely delivered of a fine little girl! to the great satisfaction of both Parents & relatives I have the pleasure to add that both the Mother & Infant are doing as well – as can be expected. – I left at Parramatta Emmeline Mrs. Lucas & little James quite well – the latter is a merry active little fellow – full of frolick & merriment – your Brother James arrived from Camden a few hours after I left home, and by a note from him last Evening I find he has written to you & given his letter to

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Mr. Bourke, who returns to England in the Sir Joseph Banks – he will have told you that he left your Brother William at Camden well – & your poor father also in bodily health – but the Mind still astray Such is the will of God – & we must submit.

It was expected the Ship above mentioned would have sailed this morning – there is another on the point of departure, therefore I write these few lines to go by one or the other of them – What an interesting tour has yours been through the North of England, and what a cheering picture your narrative gives of the Wealth – opulence – spirit, talent, & industry of the Agriculture & Manufactures of respected – & respectable Old England! I shall look for your more detailed account

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with considerable impatience – I am glad you have visited our friend THS – & the Brisbanes & their friends. – Dr. Evans who is now here purposes returning by way of China in the Fairfield – he breakfasted with us yesterday morning & went to Parramatta by the Evening Coach – you would be surprized at the number of Stage Coaches – between Sydney & Parramatta!! Stage Coaches to Windsor – to Bathurst – to Liverpool to Campbell Town – & to Goulbourn Plains – you will perceive – how we are also increasing in bustle & importance – I often think of Mr. Fields anticipated Sydney Gazette – & little thought at the time – so many things predicted would so soon come to pass –

MacAlister is now stationed at Bathurst, he has been lately amongst [us]

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and requested to be most kindly remembered to you – we have always a long Chat about you – he is warm-hearted – honorable & friendly – as ever. – Frederick Thompson was quite well, when we last heard from him. – I wrote you very lately by Archdeacon Broughton – and also by Dr. Price who was a passenger in the same Ship – I made rather a bulky packet by the latter, I hope it may not be an expensive one it occurred to me, rather suddenly – to send you such letters written from Camden as I had preserved – as better calculated to explain how matters stood – than any account I could give

I am much gratified to hear of our friend Davidson – & that he is recovering from his heavy affliction – It is long since I heard from Devonshire – but as you observe had any thing particular occurred Mr. Kingdon would have written – Mr. Broughton is at Sydney – he has called upon me & went to

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Parramatta to visit the family yesterday.

The Vineyard family are well – also the Kings Old & Young – frequent enquiries are made for you – and abundance of loves – & greetings I am generally commissioned to send you from all

You will be glad to hear good worthy Mrs Bennet continues well & grateful to you for her present independence

God bless you My dearest Edward
ever your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

Bowman and Mary desire their affectionate remembrances –

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No. 39

Parramatta
Saturday 17th May 1834

My beloved Son/

What can I add to the sad details which the letters from your beloved Brothers will communicate? – I am assured very little – more than what will arise in your own filial bosom when the first impression of the awful, but yet natural, event which has deprived you of a much loved & reverenced father – has given place to resigned & tranquil reflection

I know you will weep – dearest Edward & indeed the fountain of my Eyes – which I believed to have been nearly dry have been opened anew – I seemed only to want to have mingled my tears with yours, conjointly, with your dear Brothers & Sisters. – and yet why should I have desired this – We

[Page 344]

ought not to expect our vain wishes to be accomplished – it is now just five weeks since the mortal remains of your dear father was consigned to its last earthly tenement – the immortal spirit is I humbly hope & trust, in a state of blessedness. under this impression, my dearest Edward, I am resigned, and can look around me for sources of consolation – now that the Shock arising – or rather increased by the suddenness of the event, has in some measure subsided – I had fondly indulged myself with the hope, that it would have pleased God to restore the dear

[Page 345]

departed to a more sane state of mind – & that he might have been at peace with his family – that he was restored to reason for a few minutes I have no doubt – more was not granted – Let us say Thy will be done on Earth b God, as it is in Heaven –

Your dear Brothers have had a melancholy duty to perform, and well have they sustained it.

You will learn that James had only quitted Camden for a day or two previous to your dear fathers death The active duties each had to perform, will readily arise to your mind – I was at Sydney – where I

[Page 346]

had been for more than a fortnight staying with dear Mary in her confinement, which took place on Saturday the 22d March, when she was safely delivered of a fine little girl, of this pleasing circumstance I had an opportunity of apprizing you by a Ship which sailed a day or two afterwards – my letter was given to Dr. Inches R. N.

Your Sister Elizabeth came to us at Sydney immediately the Melancholy event was known at Parramatta. Hannibal accompanied her down, & returned again immediately dear Mrs. Lucas was left with Emmeline and Young Edward & little James

[Page 347]

17.5.34

2

were staying with them – the former was only recovering from a severe illness with which he was seized suddenly, & which exhibited for many hours a very dangerous aspect – I mention this because you will see some notice of it in some of the notes, I mean to put up – I am happy to say he is better, and I hope gaining strength – he rides three or four miles every fine day on a nice little Pony

I wander from my little narrative

on Monday 14th April dear James came to us at Sydney – he left Hannibal and Vineyard James with William at Camden – the latter

[Page 348]

remained there about a week when your dear Brother William came to us also – leaving for a while the Scene – where so many objects could not but recal painful associations

he remained at Parramatta & Sydney a week or ten days – and accompanied me home – where James Emmeline Mrs. Lucas & the two Boys, were expecting our arrival. Elizabeth remained a week longer with Mary – who had scarcely as yet left her room – about this time Frederick Thompson joined us and staid some days – and then accompanied William back to Camden

[Page 349]

yesterday I learn he left Camden to return to his residence in Argyle – he is looking very well – your Sister Elizh came home this day week – and left all well at Sydney – James has paid a short visit to Camden – that is of two or three days this week – thus I have hastily sketched our position for the last five or six weeks – thinking that you will be comforted, to know all that can be told of our movements

Every person has been very attentive and many families of the midling Class of inhabitants at Parramatta, have put on Mourning as a token of grateful respect to your dear departed father – Now let me close

[Page 350]

this narrative –

Whilst writing the within – we received by the Coach from Sydney your various packets – which we had long expected by the “Craigevar" – Thanks dearest Edward for your letters to me – I will leave the other members to say as much for themselves – Our dear “Eccentric" friend, as you call him anticipated – that the dear departed would not long survive – I scarcely think James will be able to write to him, by the Persian – is it not remarkable that Capn. Mallard who commands the Persian, should have been the bearer of your melancholy

[Page 351]

17.5.34

3

packet containing the account of the death of our dear & lamented John

Sir Edward Perry [Parry] will take charge of the packet in which this will be enclosed I trust you will meet, he will be enabled to communicate much information, which it will be very desireable you should be acquainted with – Lady Perry & Sir Edwd. called upon me at Woolloomalla just a day or two previous to his setting out with Mr. Macleay on a visit to Brownlow Hill – he told me he should go to Camden – I little thought of the consolation I should afterwards derive from this arrangement. – they left Sydney on the very morning of your dear fathers death – & recd. the awful intelligence at Liverpool – it was only of the 25th March that Mr Wethermans decease took place at Camden – he died of Apoplexy – he had been much esteemed

[Page 352]

by Sir Edwd. Parry – and your poor father who also respected him and pitied his fallen fortunes – welcomed his arrival at Camden about a fortnight before – and seemed greatly pleased with the prospect of having him for a companion – this good feeling did not continue until Death removed the object – the Shock of this awful event William had also to encounter alone – James took not a moment in hastening to him as soon as he could make some necessary arrangements at Parramatta – you will observe a note I put up. – A well educated Medical Gentleman named Fotheringham highly recommended, and particularly introduced to Mr. Macquaid – was thought an eligible person to succeed

[Page 353]

Mr. Wetherman – he was staying with Macalister at Bathurst – from whence he hastened to meet dear James at Parramatta – or Sydney – James left Camden for the purpose of this meeting on the 6th or 7th of April – I need say no more, on this melancholy subject. – nor should I have written so much, but in some measure, to relieve James from some detail of painful recurrences –

Believe me to be My beloved Son
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 354]

17.5.34

Just as I had written the within a Doctor Inches called – one of the Naval Surgeons – to take leave of Mr. Bowman – he is a Passenger in the Sir Joseph Banks now about to Sail – and has promised to take charge of my letter. –

Sir Edward Lady Parry & family are arrived from Port Stephens They will very soon be embarking for England, which will be another conveyance for Letters –

We all rejoice in the safety of Capn. Ross!! –

[Page 355]

[Address page.]

Major MacArthur
House of Lords
Westminster

[Page 356]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 40

Parramatta Friday 26th Sepr. 1834

My dearest Edward/

I write a few hurried lines by the Harmony and although I know James has written – yet, as you so strenuously request a letter from one of us by every opportunity – I have taken pen in hand – feeling however mine will be a very meagre communication. – We have to thank you my dearest Son, for various letters by Dr. MacArthur – who arrived a few days since & is now I understand in Lodgings at Sydney – wishing he could be accommodated with a House in Parramatta. – I am told there is no such thing to be had – there are Strangers continually arriving from one part of the world or another

speedily tenanting every Decent habitation as soon as it is fit to receive inmates.
James came from Camden, unexpectedly to us on business – we on the same day dispatched the English Letters &c to him & William They missed James – but William returning them the day following – James called on Dr. MacArthur & was much pleased with him – he also called on a Mr Dudley North introduced by our friend THS to Mr. Bowman and by Mr Majoribanks to James – he missed seeing the latter – & having appointments which called him back again to Camden there is no chance of their meeting for some days to come. – William is purposing to go into Argyle, he was to have set out to-day from Camden

but I believe he has postponed his departure until Monday – you will be aware the busy Season, for arranging the Flocks and the commencement of Shearing is at hand. – there is a large cultivation of grain – & grapes – the harvesting of which the former is fast approaching – your Brothers are consequently much engaged
Dr. Smith who was the bearer of some Letters & Books has been staying a short time at Camden Mr. Bowman accompanied him – he returned here much gratified by the attention that had been shown him and by what he saw there –
Mr. Marsden goes to Camden to-morrow and intends to perform Divine Service there the following day (Sunday) – Mr. Marsden is again at the head of the Church

[Crossed section:]

he keeps his health wonderfully well & is very active – Mrs. Marsden is well also – they always enquire for you. Mrs. King spent last Evening with us – she is quite in good spirits & desires to be kindly remembered to you. Capn. King is in the interior to a Sheep Establishment of his he spent two or three days at Camden on his way – & will also stay there on his return – he is grown Stout and looks very well –
Dr. Fairfowl and Hannibal returned from Argyle on Monday last also James Jnr. They passed a day or two at Camden – Dr. Fairfowl also passed a fortnight with your Brothers presently they accompanied Dr. Fairfowl to Illawarra known now by the appellation of The Land of Palms – of the fame of this lately much admired

part of the Country you will hear from himself I trust – I believe he is looking out for a Ship in which to take his passage – all the Vineyard family are merry and well – just at the season of life when every thing is fresh and smiling
Elizabeth has been staying lately a few weeks at Sydney – she returned not quite with her usual health – suffering from something of a [indecipherable] to an intermittent – she will write by the very next Ship – she and Emmeline have commenced drying flowers for you – the latter is gone to Sydney to-day and also Mrs. Lucas We expect they will bring your young name sake back with them – he has been staying with [Mama two or three weeks – his health is]

Mama two or three weeks – his health is yet delicate – we rejoice at the good account you give of Davidson – pray remember us to him – That the disposition of Belmont is yet undecided I confess annoys me – Shall I say that Davidson ought not to make any difficulties – it can be of very minor importance to him – and when I have been told – he offered it to Mr. Dent I think for seven hundred pounds – I felt vexed –
So our friend THS is gone to Frankfort – and is returned again long ere this I trust well – we think of him often – I have reached the bottom of my paper and shall here conclude with prayers for your health and comfort – ever be assured that I am
Dear Edward
Yr. Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 357]

[For transcription see page 356.]

[Page 358]

[For transcription see page 356.]

[Page 359]

[Cover and address sheet. Note written by Edward’s sister Elizabeth. Written and then crossed at 90° to the original script, starting on the bottom third of the page.]

One line I must write my dear dear Edward if it is only to assure you of our unceasing affection – that we may have appeared to be remiss in writing to you for many months past – I doubt not but indeed my brother our Silence has been caused by the fear of communicating our own melancholy feelings to you – for when the heart is sad we cannot write chearfully to those we truly love May we now by the blessing of Almighty God be enabled to feel & to

[Crossed section:]

communicate with each other as we were wont to do only perhaps with the chastened token of mind wh. great grief must bring to those who feel as they ought to do – How solicitously we shall look for your letters some months hence I need not say – God bless you beloved brother
Yr E MacA

[Address, mostly crossed through. Not transcribed.]

[Page 360]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

October 24? 1834

No. 176

My beloved Son/

Dr Fairfowl sailed 27.10.34

I cannot let our friend Dr. Fairfowl depart without a few lined addressed to you by my self

I took leave of him yesterday – he walked over from the Vineyard, soon after breakfast and staid about an hour – he seemed to look forward with pleasure at the thought of meeting you in Town immediately on his arrival – this morning Hannibal takes him to Sydney – whither also your Brother William & Frederick Thompson are gone. – I have been busy in putting up various little Notes & Letters, which I trust may be gratifying to you to read in a time of leisure – and your Brother James has collected some at Camden which he forwarded last night – with his Letters the notes & correspondence will be packed

[Crossed section:]

We cannot expect a reunion – I trust to your discretion & kind feelings to say every thing for me, that I might for myself –

Dearest Edward – do not think me unmindful of you – at any time although I have not written so frequently as I did whilst staying at Sydney – When we have once heard from you after the arrival of Sir Ewd Perry I hope if health be spared me to be more punctual. – With my prayers for your health & Comfort believe me to be
My dearest Edward
Yr. ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 361]

No. 2.

I have made a memorandum on the outer cover which is addressed to you requesting him to tear it off – if it should be embarrassing. William & Frederick returned from Argyle together, they are both looking well

All the family at Vineyard are also well Maria wrote & requested to be remembered to you – Mrs. King spent an Evening with us two or three days since – she also begged her kind regards to you – The Marsdens often enquire for you. –

Dr. MacArthur has hired a Cottage in Parramatta I like his appearance – and I am told Mrs. MacArthur is a very pleasing person – they have dined at Woolloomalloo. Mary is pleased with them – & you know she is not very apt to be taken with Strangers.

[Page 362]

You will observe a note from James written at Camden, which I have marked as relating to the Vineyard family – they have seen a great deal of Company of late – & perhaps rather (familiarly) more than their sober minded friends think prudent, when there are so many young girls – some injurious remarks were said to have been made by Major Bouverie – which caused a meeting between him & Mr. Harrington – happily no personal injury was sustained on either side
Dr. Fairfowl was Harringtons friend on the occasion

The affair – of course, makes a talk & discussions but should Fairfowl not allude to it – perhaps you had better take no notice yourself. – you will observe that I have not yet been to Camden – in truth there has been such a run made upon the little Cottage – that I have been deterred from going

[Page 363]

I want to be quiet and alone with my family when I make this first visit – which must excite feelings – I would not [forego?] but of too solemn a nature – for publicity

I wish there was an Inn in the Vicinity of Camden – to accommodate ordinary Guests

I have on a former occasion written to you, what were my wishes, in case of the demise of my poor aged Mother – which was that the Annuity allowed her, should be continued to my Sister – who would otherwise, I fear, be left destitute. – Of this event I cannot but expect to hear of at no very distant period – Pray thank Mr. Kingdon for all his good & kind attention –

Perhaps an all gracious & divine Providence may allow of our meeting in another state of existence – here

[Page 364]

No. 146 177

Copied

Oct 24? 1834

you will observe an allusion to a fall from a Horse – your Brother James – was very fond of a very fine animal to which was given the name of Ivanhoe – he was mounting him one day – several weeks since to ride round to the Vineyard – when the Animal suddenly reared up, & was nearly over – when James who was not on his guard, or prepared for such an adventure – was flung violently on the ground – he used the [warning?] took Medicine &c – but felt the Shock for some time – we prevailed on him to abandon the horse as a Steed for the Saddle –

Pray remember us kindly to THS – you will have seen the Broughtons before this – remember us also to WSD altho’ I am a little vexed with him

[Page 365]

[Cover and address sheet. Letter continues, beginning on the bottom panel of the page.]

Mrs. Lucas is quite well – she is on a visit to Mary at Sydney – Mr, Bowman has three weeks leave of absence to visit his concerns at Hunters River

The House at Lyndhurst proceeds wonderfully well – The tedious part will be the finishing

[Address:]

Major MacArthur
House of Lords

Favored by
Dr. Fairfowl R. N.

[Page 366]

No. 41

Parramatta Novr. 10th 1834

My dearest Edward

I write a few hasty lines to go by the Richard Reynolds, now about to Sail – it is about a fortnight since our friend Dr. Fairfowl left us – he has various Letters, some Bird Skins & dried flowers for you, which I trust will arrive safely – and that the good Doctor himself will present himself in health, & find you in possession of that inestimable blessing. – I am not aware if either of your Brothers have written, they are both at Camden, busily engaged in superintending the Sheep Shearing and in preparations for the approaching Harvest. – It was mine and Elizabeth’s intention to have been at Camden at this time – we have hitherto been prevented by a variety of causes, not worth enumerating, & now we are all

[Page 367]

more or less suffering from an Epidemic a sort of Influenza, which our newspapers call a “Catarrh" – which will prevent our journey for some time longer. – Elizabeth Emmeline & little William have each been attacked – James has a little of it at Camden. – I had a letter from him yesterday by James Junr. who came all the way down from the Wollondilly to keep his Birthday!! he attained the age of 21 on the 9th of this month. – Mr. Mrs. Macquaid & their Daughter paid us a visit yesterday they have been in Argyle for some weeks and passed three or four days at Camden on their return – they speak in high commendation of every thing they saw there and were exceedingly gratified by the attention

[Page 368]

of your Brothers – William writes to me that the Shearing is proceeding rapidly – that the Sheep wash well, and although from the sudden & severe heat & consequent drought some dust unavoidably will be collected in the fleece after washing – yet he promises it to be in very good order! it is a great privation to me, not to be there at this time – I am so fond of seeing the operation. – Mrs. Lucas is still staying with Mary at Sydney – Mr. Bowman is returned from Hunters River, after a three weeks absence – your Sister & the two Children at home – James – and the infant Isabella have “The Colik". – Edward & Willy are here, the former has just been walking round the Garden with one of the Sons of Dr. Macarthur who has collected a

[Page 369]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

large bunch of flowers to take to his Mother – We rejoice to learn from your letters of the 9th July 1833 – that the flowers & other things sent by Dr. Roberts have been acceptable to your friends Lady C & Miss [indecipherable] – another collection is in preparation for the next fair offer of a Conveyance – I believe Dr. Smith has a Box for you – he is a passenger with Dr. Fairfowl – you may believe we were much gratified by the success of the wool sale – and the praises & commendations gave us additional pleasure. – We are glad to learn that Govr. have at length bestowed a mark of favor on Capn. Sturt They should have given him ten thousand Acres of land at least. – I hope

[Crossed section:]

we shall have letters from you again soon – I anticipate the arrival of Sir Ed. Parry – the intelligence you will receive by him oppresses my mind – and causes me to feel a melancholly, which I would willingly suppress – Dearest Edward – your blessed father I trust & humbly hope is reaping the reward of the many benefits he bestowed on this Community – to his foresight & zeal may be attributed much of its present prosperity

Excuse me from writing more at this moment
accept the affectionate Love of your Sisters and myself and believe me ever
My dearest Edward
Your affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 370]

No. 43.

Parramatta
Friday February 20th 1835

My beloved Edward/

I have just put up for your perusal, at a leisure hour, such of the Camden Correspondence as I thought might amuse, and give you a more lively account of some things than a mere letter of detail. – you will be glad to learn, that I have at length been enabled to visit Camden, with some degree of comfort to myself – and that we spent three weeks there in the last month – with more chearfulness than I had anticipated.

Elizabeth, and your young namesake Edward, were my Companions – the latter was delighted with every thing he saw – the scene was altogether new to him – and dear William devoted himself to amuse, and divert the Boy – your Brother James was in Argyle, when we first went, but

[Page 371]

returned from thence in about a week after our arrival, looking all the better for his trip – and the general aspect of things there being satisfactory to him we listened to his “Up Country" anecdotes & details with pleasure – you will observe his letters from Taralga & one from Rhyana [Rhyanna]

Emmeline has some Correspondence which she claims the priviledge of putting up herself being addressed to her from Camden whilst we were there –

I am not determined whether I shall send my packet by Dr. Rutherford or Dr. Tarne [Dr. Tarn RN] – there are four Ships to sail for London on Sunday & one on Monday – Dr. Rutherford called to take leave of us this week & Dr. Tarne also – they both promise

[Page 372]

to endeavour to see you, immediately on their arrival. – James & Frederick Thompson went to Sydney this morning the former for the purpose of dispatching the business connected with the Embarkation of the years Wool, which I am pleased to say is all safely embarked (The last load of Lambs Wool yesterday) – it is an anxious time to me always, when the wool is being shipped – and consequently I rejoice when the object is effected. – Frederick T is in very good health & spirits, only complaining of the heat, which is indeed most oppressive, & has been for several weeks past. – it makes me so tremulous that I can scarcely write. – you will expect me to say something of the New House at Camden – It is a handsome Building – more of a Classic Character

[Page 373]

than any other I have seen – Spacious on the Ground floor – and indeed sufficiently so, on the Chamber floor – but you are not new to be told, my dearest Edward, that one wing was planned & finished long before the other part, for a particular purpose – alas the destined, & beloved occupant is I privately hope & trust reaping a rich harvest of reward for all that his benevolent spirit originated – & all that it contemplated to effect – I cannot pursue this train of thought – you may be sure when weeping over his Tomb – I thought of & prayed for you also my dear Son –

I shall here conclude this Sheet and sign myself your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 374]

No. 44

Parramatta Thursday Feby. 26th 1835

My beloved Son/

I again take my pen to address a few lines to you expecting what I write, will be presented to you by our friend Dr. Rutherford. – who is to return to England in the Princess Victoria – I have already written to you by the “Roslyn Castle" – & sent a collection of family correspondence, which may give you a better insight of our position than any letter immediately addresses to yourself. Dr. Tarne [Tarn] – and Mr. Lauga [Mr. Burman Lauga] – have charge of our Letters The former, can speak of us all, very particularly I think him a worthy and an amiable Man one who has been acquainted with the Country many years – & has a kindly feeling for many of its old inhabitants – James & Frederick T. returned from Sydney on Monday Evening – the Roslyn Castle sailed in the morning – on Tuesday – our two Gentlemen dined with Dr. Anderson

Mr. Bowman came up in the Eveng. – slept here proceeded to Windsor yesterday to inspect the

[Page 375]

Hospital. James & Frederick set out for Camden – Mr. Pulteny Malcolm accompanying the former in the Gig – he has obtained leave to spend a few days at Camden, he is a fine looking young man – very tall – & seemed highly delighted with the prospect of a little relaxation in the Country – I am sorry to say that the Country – is suffering just now, from a continuance of excessive heat & severe drought. – We had a few lines from William written on tuesday he says “The Thermometer before Sun rise was 71" – Many persons now begin to turn their attention to sinking large Tanks – & constructing Reservoirs for Water – an application of labour, which promises to be very beneficial

James told me he had sent you Six of our Colonial “Directories" The Post Office Directory really contains a great deal of Colonial information I think our friend THS & Mr. Bigge will

[Page 376]

find amusement in the Itinerary – this is furnished from the Surveyors Department – I can trace Major Mitchels [Major Thomas Mitchell’s] remarks in many of the observations

I hope our friend Dr. Fairfowl will have safely arrived long before this may be supposed to reach you – I can fancy what long – and earnest conversations you will have had with each other – the Doctors sensitive mind was much wounded during his last visit to the Colony a Military Mania had seized upon the inmates of the Vineyard – & disturbed the repose, and intellectual enjoyment the Doctor used to find under that roof, in the [incessant?] prattle of the Children. & in the undisguised & cheerful communication with the older branches of the family – Maria is in the way to add another to the already numerous family – their very large New House is proceeding rapidly – the work is well executed, as I am told, by better judges than I am – James is become a fine young man – the three Eldest Daughters Handsome young Women – Kate is just now, the most attractive. They all

[Page 377]

enquire very kindly for you, when I see them

Mrs. Copland Lethbridge has been on a visit to her Mother, she was with us yesterday – Hannibal is to take her home to the South Creek tomorrow

Mr. Bowman we are expecting every minute, he will take his dinner here, & return to Sydney afterwards, he is so anxious to quit his present residence, & get into the New House at Lyndhurst – that he is reluctant to leave the Workmen for any length of time together –

[Note written by Edward’s sister Elizabeth:]

Thursday night

Mr. Bowman did come my dearest brother – and the visit – of several acquaintance immediately following have prevented our Mother from concluding this hurried letter written during a day of Heat more oppressive than I remember for many many years – Every thing around us is languishing & in most situations there is

[Page 378]

[Cover and address sheet written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth. Written and then crossed at 90° to the original script, beginning in the lower panel of the page. Alignment of the crossed section is right hand panel first, then left hand panel. Parts of this are difficult to make out and only part is transcribed.]

My dearest brother – will I hope accept a few lines in lieu of a longer letter in truth I have nothing half so [signall?] to communicate as our Mothers writing will of itself put you in possession of – She is thank God quite well and in better spirits than could almost have been hoped for. Since this [indecipherable] is in itself sufficient to cast a gloom on the feelings of all

Emmeline has been much stronger [indecipherable] recovering from the Measles – & is indeed altogether in better health than I have known her to be for many years – Fredk. Thompson was quite well when

[Crossed section:]

we last heard from him – about a fortnight since – he was then about to visit us – but a Storm of Sleet or Snow & rain together induced him to turn back & he [indecipherable] be with us until after [indecipherable] visit to [indecipherable]

Dear Mrs. Lucas is well & finds amusement in the [Mornings?] at her Cottage – spending the other part of the day with us – Tell our dear T.H.S. it is a heart breaking circumstance to us that any other but himself should be our 1st Bishop – we always determined this high office should be his – Offer our affect. [love?] to Mrs Plum & all her family [indecipherable]

God bless my brother
in haste – Yr. E MacA

[Address panel; several lines crossed through:]

private

Single sheet

Major Mac Arthur
care of Messrs Herries & Farquhar & Co
St James Street
London

4 Vigo Street
Westminster

Received Feby. 26th 1836

[Page 379]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Images out of order; letter begins on page 381 then continues on page 380, then page 379. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 44A

[Note written sideways at top of page:] Excuse this – I have written at an hours notice

Parramatta September 11. 1835

My dearest Edward/

Your Letter by the Mary, which I received the Evening before last lies now before me – you date it in Novr. but from the touching manner of its commencement – you must have written it on the 20th of April – Alas my dearest Son – we need not to be reminded of what that month has deprived us – blessed spirits, I trust they are, whom we vainly lament! I may truly say no day passes, and on many, scarcely an hour that my thoughts do not revert to the many excellencies and virtuous traits of character of both
We have received a letter from you, or I believe I may say Letters of a later date one by the Canton addressed to Jas. & Wm. passed through my hands dated 9th May – this vessel with female Emigrants arrived only a day previous to the Mary – She is placed in Quarantine having the Small pox on board – which causes something of a panic, & is causing numerous applications to the Medical department for vaccination – before this alarm – it was difficult to induce subjects to be vaccinated. Before I notice other subjects

I should tell you, how, & where we all are as perhaps you will not receive any letters by this conveyance, but from me. – your Brothers are both absent – William I expect is at Taralga about this time – James at Camden – Mr. Leslie is at Camden also – staying a few days, previous to his departure for the Hunter & Goulburn to take charge of his uncles stock – We are all of us in good health and as chearful as a most unpropitious season will allow us to be it is the most severe one – I think – we have experienced – I cannot tax my memory to say how long we have been without a fall of rain – there have been showers on the Coast and just enough about Sydney to support vegetation in the Gardens – here we are woefully deficient – no Grass or Vegetation – at Camden the same on a more extensive scale – the Wheat cannot vegetate. – and for want of Autumnal rain the Crop of Maize was very Scanty – Stock of every description are suffering from want of pasturage & water – Sheep endure these scarcities better than most other beasts

but a great mortallity has prevailed over many flocks – hitherto no intelligence has reached me of any considerable loss amongst ours – a deficiency of Lambs must be calculated on – the Ewes cannot sustain their offspring –
I will not dwell on this gloomy subject – it is wrong to do so – before you can read what I have written we may be surrounded with verdure and regaling ourselves with fruit & flowers. – I have still one other [disastrous] subject to notice – the numerous Shipwrecks & fatal loss of Life – of the loss of the George the Third – I have before written and of our having had the letters – some of them at least picked up by an Officer on the Sands – Miss Friths Books & a Pamphlet descriptive of Stowe – your name in Each, which identified them. – The wreck of the [Enchantress] followed – poor young James escaped unhurt but with the loss of every thing but the Cloaths on him – we have intelligence of another Ship lost on the Acteon Reef a fine new vessel from Leith named the Wallace No Lives lost in this last I am happy to learn. – I think this is four ships wrecked in Bass’s Straits within the

[The Wallace was wrecked on a reef off Acteon Rock or Island at the entrance to D’Entrecasteaux Channel on 25 August 1835.]

[Crossed section:]

last few months – I have seen young James several times I am very glad to say that his uncle has received him he is a fine looking youth – but I understand his Education has been very much neglected – arrived at the age of Seventeen without being able to write fairly – or spell with ordinary correctness – in truth, my dear Edward, however we might wish to benefit relations, it must not be at the expence of time and the attention of your Brothers – they have enough to do & no time to devote to the instruction of those who if inmates of the same dwelling – would naturally expect to associate with themselves in whatever guests they might have – With Han. [Hannibal] it is altogether different there is a young family requiring instruction some older, & some younger than the youth himself – Vineyard James will be for him to look up to. –
The position of our Society, is continually changing – enlarging of course – William paid us a short visit last week previous to his setting out for Argyle – whilst he remained he dined

at Govt. House Parramatta met there The Chief Justice Forbes with whom he is on Terms of great civility, at least, and greatly affianced in horticultural pursuits – Mr. Forbes is about to return to England with the intention of remaining a short time & I presume finally to settle in this Country – where he is become a considerable proprietor – a great doubt arises who is to be the Chief in his absence – Mr. Dowling claims presidency – Mr. Burton, it seems, is entitled to the situation on every account. –
We received safe every letter & paper entrusted to the care of Dr. Osborne – he brought his family with him he makes another voyage himself leaving his wife & children for whom he has taken a Cottage in Parramatta – I hope Mr. Fairfowl will have arrived safe & in good health, his voyage has certainly been tedious – My last letter was by the Resource

I will as you so earnestly desire it, write or cause to be written a letter to you once a month – to go by any opportunity that may offer. – Mr. Bowman Mary & the two children with them are well – residing at Lyndhurst, a very handsome residence, nearly finished – Edward is with us receiving lessons from one of the Revd. Mr. Forrests Tutors twice a week – little William is living with us also a remarkably fine intelligent Boy four years old – Elizabeth has paid great attention to Edward, so that notwithstanding his delicate health, he is quite forward enough. both the Boys send their love to “Uncle Edward" Mrs. Lucas also – she dines with us every day – Hannibal was with us yesterday
I hope all is well in Devonshire – our remembrances to all friends particularly to dr. [dear] THS and also to Mr. Bigge – not forgetting Davidson [with] whom I [cannot?] sometimes help being [angry?]
My dearest Edward
ever your affect. Mother E. MacArthur

[Page 380]

[For transcription see page 379.]

[Page 381]

[For transcription see page 379.]

[Page 382]

No. 45

Camden Wednesday 23d Decr. 1835

My beloved Edward/

I have the pleasure of writing a few lines to you from hence, by the Hercules (Capn. Daniels) said to sail positively on Christmas day – your Brother James is writing – and if I make haste he will take my letter with his own to Campbell town to put into the Post Office, – he is going to meet Elizabeth, who has promised to set out from Parramatta about 9 o’clock. Since Saturday last, James & myself have been the sole occupants here – on that day, Mrs. Lucas returned to Parramatta having spent three weeks, very happily, as she says, at Camden – it is her first visit after a great lapse of time – and consequently every thing was new to her – and scarcely an object met her Eye, that she recognized, excepting Mount Hunter – we happened to have a good many visitors

[Note at bottom of page:]
Sturt acquired Varro Ville 1835+.
Mrs Sturt’s confinement not in Aust. Index

[Page 383]

during her stay – and by invitation Mr. Fitzgerald from Windsor where he resides it was his first visit also – it was really interesting to witness his compleat bewilderment – and his odd interrogations but wheres the Long Meadow? he exclaimed Where the Meadow Ponds? – bless me – bless me I ought to know, where to look for them

At length after two or three days by getting up very early in the morning & walking about alone, and carefully observing he began to make out his position better, & he found out two Old Servants – ‘Herbert" & ‘Doyle – and they assisted him. – when he went away he seemed quite overcome & said he had such heart-felt satisfaction in this visit, that he should soon

[Page 384]

come again – the House gratified him beyond measure!! – the system of Cultivation was most praiseworthy – he had seen nothing like it – for the Crops we must be silent you will have been told the Wheat is a failure – from a continuance of a severe drought – the Maize at present looks promising but it is very backward

Whilst Mrs. Lucas was with us, we had the three Colonels commanding the three Regts. to stay a day or two Col Despard & Col Breton were expected the day after their arrival came Col Woodhouse of the 50th & Mr Malcomb [Malcolm] as we had Beds enough this meeting was amusing & a cause of merriment

William, as James will tell you is at Taralga, we have not heard

[Page 385]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

of him, since he left Mittagong Capn Sturts residence – which was his first Stage – his next would be Arthursleigh Hannibals – where the two Jamess are attending the Sheep-Shearing – Most of our Neighbours are absent to their district stations attending the same operation – When we last heard from Parramatta all there were well – and also at Lyndhurst. – I must not prolong my Letter by entering on any other subject – lest I am too late

Thank you my dearest Edward for all your Letters & notes – the Books by Capn. [Barry?], I am occasionally amusing myself with Many thanks for Lord Cholmondelys gifts from Royalty –

[Crossed section:]

Kindest remembrances, wherever due from me fail not to present them to Mr. Bigge the Archdeacon – Davidson &c once again
My dearest Edward, believe me to be
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

Emmeline has also been staying with me here, but not at the same time with Mrs. Lucas – the Governor also & his Daughter Mrs. Deas Thompson – & her Husband

[Page 386]

183

No. 42

Sunday 1/2 past 11 oc
1835-36?

My dear Elizabeth

your large packet was brought to me in Bed this morning by “little James" as Willy calls him – saying “Allan brought it & all is well" – he is an affectionate little fellow – and an early riser. – I have been occupied an hour or more in reading the various dispatches – I am very glad William has taken some recreation – and shall not be sorry – when the Courtly visitors, as you are pleased to call them, have passed on – poor Mrs. Sturt – it

[Page 387]

will be a little hard upon her – if she has to entertain so recently after her confinement – I hope she will continue to do well. – I heard Capn. Sturt was in treaty for “Varra Ville" [Varro Ville] – which would bring them nearer Camden – and not so immediately by the way side as their present residence – I wish

I am rather surprized to hear that Maria intends going to Arthursleigh – has Hannibal been ill?

[Page 388]

[Several numbers in pencil; not transcribed.]

Allan has been into Town & delivered his Letters Mr. Dawsons compliments & he will attend to your Brothers request in the morning. – A parcel was sent by “Thomas a Becket this morning, before Allan arrived, containing a Letter from me – the Copies & a note for Aunt Em. – 2 Parramatta Cloths also – Mary & the Children have walked to the garden & are just returned – I thought it too windy & I fear getting my

[Page 389]

feet damp – not having any Clogs – Edward was to have procured a pair yesterday, but forgot to take a Shoe – a Ship to sail for England, & a Solar Eclipse I must enquire about the one – and look out for the other. – I shall be glad to see Dr. Smith I suppose he will return to Sydney soon. – I am pleased, that William is pleased with Mr. Gordon it is gratifying to meet

[Page 390]

with one, who is something more elevated in his observations, & pursuits – than many we have lately seen – I do not return any of the Letters as Mary may like to read by & by – I have written all this without telling you – we were disappointed in not seeing Mr. Bowman last night – for some unexplained reason the Steamer is not expected before this Eveng. – Mary joins in Love to yourself, dear Emmeline and Willy with, My dear Elizabeth
Your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

NB I observe William writes for Shirts – those I [suppose] you will send by Mr Gordon

[Page 391]

[Continuation of letter, beginning on the lower panes, and address.]

I wish I knew whether we could procure any thing for William here that might be acceptable to him

I fear he must be getting low in his Stock of Shirts – Mary says Nancy never promised to get him the set made, which a pattern was made here –

[Address panel and note:]

a year old – but will shew something of the state of the times – Jany. 1837 –

Miss MacArthur
By Allan Parramatta

[Page 392]

No 46

Parramatta March 1st 1836
in Continuation

I take up my pen to write what may be perhaps but a short Letter to my beloved Edward – knowing that he will be pleased to read a little of his Mothers scribble – my last letter was addressed to you from Camden, & sent with one from James – William was at the time in Argyle – I think I was altogether about two months at Camden – Emmeline accompanied me, to receive the Governor & his Son in law & Daughter Mr. & Mrs. Deas Thompson – they remained from Friday until the Monday following & then the party proceeded on to Illawarra – from whence Mr & Mrs. Deas Thompson returned & spent a week with us – the Governor’s engagements would not admit of his longer absence he therefore returned direct to Parramatta Mrs. Thompson is a frank, lively little

[Page 393]

woman, quite free from affectation & I should think very warm hearted – she has a delightful voice, & having had the advantage of good tuition, she sings most enchantingly!

Emmeline returned to Parramatta soon after Mr. & Mrs D Thompson – Mrs. Lucas was then prevailed on to pay Camden a visit, she remained three weeks, and remarked that we had visitors, more or less every day – the weather was very warm & every thing around arid & dry – she was nevertheless pleased, & gratified

Elizabeth & your little nephew William came next – they remained a week or two – & then we returned together – I was certainly very much better for this excursion – and have indeed been blessed with good health since my

[Page 394]

return – but have been confined to the House several weeks from a bruise on my right arm – it is quite well now, only a little sore – all poulticing & plaister discontinued – I should not mention it to you, but that when Dr Boyter came to take leave, I did not see him, – and he will be likely to tell you that I was keeping my room. – there are several Ships now about to sail – it is impossible to foresee which may first arrive, I will endeavour to write two or three Letters – so that there may be intelligence of us by each. – Colonel Despard & family Embark on Wednesday I think your Brothers will introduce him to you, he is a Gentlemanly well informed man – & has his Regt. the 17th in a high state of discipline – Mrs. Despard is an

[Page 395]

amiable woman, highly respected – Lt. Col Breton who commands the 4th (or Kings Own) stationed at Parramatta – also returns to England by the same Ship – both these Officers paid a visit to your Brothers at Camden of some days, whilst I was there and it so happened that Colonel Woodhouse commanding the 50th Regt. stationed at Windsor drove over from thence, whilst the others were here with us, accompanied by Mr. Malcolm – this caused a little merriment – Col. Despard I believe has thoughts of returning to this Country , with his family & certainly Col Breton also, your perhaps aware that he is a Widower & leaves his Infant Daughter to the care of her Grandmother & Aunts Mrs. & the Miss Blaxlands

Col Breton has been uniformly attentive

[Page 396]

2

Parramatta March 2d 1836

to us – & has been most vigilantly careful in preventing the soldiers from trespassing tho converting the Store at the Corner of the Estate into a Barrack – is a nuisance to us – this was Sir Ralph Darlings arrangement – I nevertheless, sincerely rejoice at his honorable acquittal, & escape from the vile conspiracy, which had perplexed him so long. – Mr. Tingecomb [John Tingcombe] also returns to England, he has for several years resided in Parramatta as a Merchant with whom we have dealt pretty largely he is a relation of the Lethbridges –

Your Brother James is at Camden – William came here a week since looking better for his Argyle Excursion he is now at Sydney, having gone there to taste Grapes – & give his opinion

[Page 397]

on their quality – and he was to dine with the “Chief Justice"! – who has also taken his passage for England – in the Brothers – & has engaged all the cabins!! – you may have heard perhaps that Mrs. Forbes is an intimate friend of Lady Cosway – your friend Mrs. Holliday’s sister – we have recd. the pretty views of his villa – I am quite sure your visit there must have been agreeable – we are always hospitable to Mr. Glennie – all the Brothers are I believe, doing well – two I think married they all reside in the Hunter. –

By Doctor France – Elizabeth hopes to send you a Box of Bird Skins – he has kindly offered to take charge of them – they are chiefly from Moreton Bay – the officer in command there, Capn Fyans [Captain Foster Fyans, Commandant at Moreton Bay, 1835-1837] has been so kind to procure them for us, for the

[Page 398]

purpose of sending you. – Capn, Clunie of the 17th – who had that command several years returns to England in the same ship (The City of Edinburgh) with Colonels Despard, and Breton

All the family at Lyndhurst, are quite well Mr. Bowman drove up on Saturday & took Edwd. home with him – Emmeline who paid her sister a short visit on Monday, brought the young Gentleman back with her, his health, we hope is rather more confirmed than it was. – and now what more shall I say? but that I pray that this may find you as well as my report shows us to be – we had a letter from James on Monday There had been some rain at Camden, which revived the sickening Maize – we hope, it will be followed with more – and that it will please the Almighty – we may reap the fruits of the Earth in due season. – Dear William worked hard in Argyle – with head & hands – he is now running about a little & amusing

[Page 399]

himself amongst his friends, – acquaintances he has about Parramatta & Sydney – Frederick Thompson accompanied him from Argyle – FT was here about a week or ten days – he wrote to his Mother from hence. – Whilst I recollect it I will just notice, that Col. Despard, as accompanying me in an Evening drive at Camden, mentioned his having intimately known the Gentleman who held your situation in the House of Lords – at the time the unfortunate Queen Caroline made the attempt to be present at the Coronation of the late King her Husband!! Sir [dash] Fellowes I think the name to be – you may guess we conversed of you, in the aforesaid drive crossed part of the Camden Estate – as this is quite a Gossipping Letter – I may as well close it here, lest the mood I am in, should lead me to such unremarkable length, that it will by a tax upon you to read it – Believe me ever to be, Dearest Edward, your very Affectionate Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 400]

March 4th 1836

My dearest Edward,

The within has been written two or three days – Mr. Anderson has just called to say Dr. France comes to him from Sydney this Eveng. – to bid him Adieu – your Sisters are busied looking over the Birds – which Dr. France kindly offers to take charge of for you – there has been a few additional ones – received only last evening –

last Evening also the arrival of the Richard Reynolds – with your little communication was joyfully received, as it gave acct. of your brother & that you were going to make a tour

I am delighted to hear that the Dowager Marchioness continues in health – thank the good Marquis for his housewife &c from Majesty too! – William is gone to [Rossington?] to shake Col Breton by the hand – & to give him a Letter from himself & a little packet from Emmeline – I have put up a parcel of miscellaneous Letters – some rather old – explaining to Dr. France what they are, that no expence may be incurred – No. 2. is of date more recent than No. 1. –

I heard from James yesterday – he will probably take a run down for a day or two the beginning of the week – Pray remember me to all friends and believe that I think of many – I do not mention

[Page 401]

[Cover and address panel. Letter continues on lower panel of the page.]

Mrs. Lucas requests her kind remembrances She lives at the cottage – but generally dines here – I do not recollect whether I ever mentioned the Revd. Mr. Forrest who is Master of the Kings School at Parramatta – he some while did duty at “Malpas" – & we converse sometimes about Cholmondeley Castle – Mr. & Mrs. Forrest are very respectable worthy persons – well adapted for the care of youth. – what will Mr. Scott say to the marriage of Old Parson Cowper (as he used to call him) to a young wife – so I am told

I cannot make up my mind to write to Mr. Kingdon just now – nor indeed to those in whom I am more immediately interested – What can I say? that will not be handed about – Kind remembrances to W.S. D – and do not forget to remember me to T.H.S. & to kind Mr. Bigge – I wish I could get a good representation of the House at Camden to send – perhaps we may soon

[Address panel:]

No. 3.

Major MacArthur
House of Lords

Favored by Dr. France R.N.

[Page 402]

No. 47

Parramatta March 19th 1836

My dearest Edward/

It is so very likely that I have busied myself in putting up a variety of Letters for you – and added much of my own scribble to them – that I almost fear you will be wearied – Dr. France who sailed about a fortnight since took charge of several packets – and also of some Birds – your old acquaintance Dr. Price is now about to depart – & kindly offers to convey any thing to you, we may have to send. – James has been in Sydney since tuesday Evening last, & by a letter I received from him yesterday he is I think likely to remain there some days longer

William has returned to Camden, & is about gathering the Grapes for pressing: as I conclude they are generally ripe enough for the purpose – & we have had no Showers of any consequence this week. – you will have heard so much of the succession of dry seasons we have had, that I shall only remark that we have had some rain, at intervals lately – just enough to save the crops of late planted maize – and to give a tint of verdure

[Page 403]

to the forest & grass land – it will require a much longer continuance of rain to penetrate into the ground, & to restore to the Streams, and reservoirs of water their usual plenitude – indeed I fear these last, will not again be filled as they have been – the Menangle Davidsons Belmont Ponds have been quite dry for many months past, & grassed over Barragle [Barragal] has receded to a very small Pond compared to what it was – one may drive over many miles, that used to be covered with water – not a drop runs through that extensive flat from Upper Camden – named by the Shepherds & Stockmen – Navigation – from the intricacies, & winding of deep gullies & long reaches that used to contain a great supply of water – which was conducted through what was called, the “Long [indecipherable]" to the river – Alas all is now dry!! – & the River fordable in various places – the County of Camden & Cumberland seems to have suffered, I think – more than

[Page 404]

other parts of the Colony – argyle at least providentially has been favored by rain – as you will have observed by the many letters we have sent you. –

March 20th
Whilst I was writing yesterday Evening – the Box of Shoes arrived, by one of the Steam-boats – it was instantly opened & the Contents examined – all in good order – we therefore began to read away – Letters – & Books – Engravings &c &c &c – which agreeably occupied us until bed-time – many thanks for your letter to me – & for all the little notes – James being still at Lyndhurst I shall say nothing for him, concluding he will tell his own story – I wish he may not be troubling himself in vain – some expression of the thoughts & feelings of the respectable part of the Community is certainly called for, at the expiration of the existing Act of Parliament – our Radical Judge too intending to make a voyage to England

I cannot trust myself to write upon this subject. – whilst my paper lay before me this morning your old Highland friend MacA lister made his appearance very unexpectedly – he came from his Camden

[Page 405]

[This page written and then crossed at 90° to the original script.]

residence yesterday – he was very glad to hear of you, and finding your Sisters busy in putting up the Birds, he kindly offers to take the Case which contains them under his care in the Steamer tomorrow morning, & see that it is safely delivered to Dr. Price I wish that they may arrive to you in as good a state as they are put up – some of the Specimens we think very beautiful – MacAlister has taken your two Nephews (“Edward" & the third boy “William") by the hand, & is gone to the Cottage to have a little chat with dear Mrs. Lucas, who has been rather ailing of late – but not, we trust, seriously indisposed – Emmeline is just gone over to the Vineyard to ask how they do – she went with James the 3d who by way of distinction they call Hinton – he is a prepossessing fine looking youth – but they say, very much neglected in his Education – your Brothers are much rejoiced that he is with his uncle, there is an abundance of room in the Vineyard New House & particularly as it is annexed to the Old Cottage, in which there are many apartments all the Vineyard family are well – here comes

[Crossed section:]

Hannibal to escort Emmeline back – and to have a little Chat with me – he desires to be kindly remembered as does Mr. MacAlister – Mrs. Lucas sisters and nephews – I am hastening to make up my packet and shall therefore only add my prayers and wishes for your health and comfort – believe me ever to remain my dearest Edward
your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

remembrances to all friends

[Page 406]

Corrected

No 48

Parramatta (Sunday) 16th Feby. 1836

My dearest Edward/

It is now some weeks since I did myself the pleasure of addressing you – but as your brother has not missed any opportunity of writing – we hope you have received pretty constant intelligence of us – I say brother, because James has been the most constant in writing, from this place, and from Sydney – whilst William has been more immediately occupied in superintending our extensive rural affairs – the last letters written by James will prepare you to expect him in England – his passage is engaged in the Ship Abel Gower – expected to sail in this month

On this subject I must not dwell – but humbly offer a prayer for his health & safety & that he may have a happy meeting with you. – he is now at Camden, as is also the Bishop Mr. Marsden & Mr. Bowman – the latter drove the Bishop here on friday – they proceeded on to Liverpool that Eveng

[Page 407]

and were to be at Camden to dinner yesterday – and divine Service to be performed there to-day – friday was the first time I had seen Dr. Broughton since his return – he made very kind mention of you, and spoke of the happy society, you were amongst – from this respectable community, how can one be selfish enough, to wish you to be separated and yet I cannot sometimes suppress the wish – until a more disinterested feeling tells me that happiness to you – ought to be the same to me in contemplation – and so indeed it is. – The Bishop is intending to look over the Land at Camden selected for the Church – it is a beautiful & commanding spot near the Bridge – and looks to great advantage since it has been cleared – it would give me great comfort & satisfaction to see an appropriate building erected

[Page 408]

on it – dedicated to the worship of the Almighty! – Dr. Broughton lamented that he had not been so fortunate as to see our friend Archdeacon Scott. he also said that he much desired to have seen Mr. Bigge – but was unsuccessful in his endeavours to do so – the Bishop & his family are still residing at an Hotel in Sydney – not being able to procure a House. – the one he occupied before has been purchased by Mrs. Scott, who resides in it – with two or three of her Sons – the two in the E. India Service are here on leave –

We are looking out for the arrival of Mr. Bigges Nephew – & shall be most happy to pay him all the attention in our power when he does come. – Speaking of Houses the Catholick Bishop Dr. Poulding occupies Woolloomola – with several young Students

[Page 409]

No. 1.

preparing for the Ministry of their Faith. – They will be diligent I do not doubt, & I trust a corresponding course may be adopted by our Clergy! it is to be lamented that so many of the labouring Class – are Irish Catholics – there are very few of the higher that are – I recollect only Mr. R. Therry & his family – & our Atty Genl Mr. Plunkett – the latter is very quiet – the former seems always ready to engage in the lists of Controversy – of the Plunketts you will have read in letters from James – you may be assured we truly rejoiced in the issue of that negociation – Miss Plunkett is a Zealous Catholick conforming to the letter – to the various and manifold observance – enjoined by their Church so it appears – the family I have been told are highly respectable – & the little I have seen of them warrants that testimony – Miss Plunkett is not young. –

[Page 410]

No 49.

Parramatta July 20th 1836

My dearest Edward/

I wrote the foregoing sheet on Sunday last – the Bishop and Mr. Bowman returned from their excursion, on Wednesday – having gone from Camden, to Richmond and Windsor – on Thursday they returned to Sydney – Dr. Broughton expressed himself highly pleased. – James and William came from Camden, soon after the Bishop & Mr. Bowman had left us – we were then all impressed with the belief that the “Abel Gower", would not sail before tomorrow week, when on Williams arrival at Sydney yesterday, it was found that Monday is the appointed day for Sailing. This is hurrying to all. – and consequently one is apprehensive, that some things should be left undone which ought to have been done – former letters of ours will have acquainted you, that our friend dear Mrs. Lucas has for some months been under Medical treatment by Mr. Bowman & Mr. Anderson her complaint Dropsy – her spirits continue good – & she, dear woman, is very sanguine in the hope that when the warm weather approaches she shall get better – in which you may be assured we all sincerely join – but as Life, under

[Page 411]

all circumstances, is uncertain, it was necessary to [indecipherable] the disposition of her property before the departure of dear James – it was only very lately, that she we knew she had not a Will by her. – this was to be drawn up yesterday and executed – she told me she had arranged all in her own mind, some time, & she gave her own [memorandums?] in writing, to the Attny. Mr. Hayward. – She expresses herself most grateful to you, for the trouble you have taken, in forwarding her accounts so regularly – and also mentions Davidson with great kindness – I think it probable you will have a short letter from her, if the Ship should not go out tomorrow. –

Amongst the Miscellaneous letters in a small package by Dr. Wilson – I see a Letter from the Revd. T. Kingdon mentioning the Death of his Wife – so long a time must elapse before any letter of Condolence could reach him from

[Page 412]

me that I even think it ill judged to open again on sorrows – that time must have soothed – I never knew Mrs. Kingdon – and even Mr. Kingdon in whose kindness I am so much indebted, was a youth when last I saw him – his Character & writing bespeak him to be a pious & good man I trust he, & the family are comforted

your beloved father, had an opportunity of renewing personally the acquaintance. My dear Aged Mother!! her Life has been prolonged to an extent not common – and that it has pleased God to grant her health, to length of days – is to me a most joyful subject of contemplation – more especially as through the bounty of your own dear departed Father I have been enabled to contribute to her comfort. – I was not aware that more than fifty pounds a year had been remitted for the use of my Mother – James told me a short time since it was seventy five pounds a year. – I think in my letter to you on this subject of continuing some allowance to my Sister – I mentioned fifty pounds

[Page 413]

No 2

a year as the sum I wished to be paid to her after my Mothers decease – I leave this to be arranged between yourself and James – well knowing you will do that, which is right – and in accordance with my feelings – and the sphere of life in which she is. – When I parted from her, she was only nine years of age – but from that period, certainly received no instruction. –

I do not think either Elizabeth or Emmeline will now write – the former intended to write to Mrs. Thompson to Miss Macdougall and to THS accompanying her letter with a sketch of the Cottage – “Vale Cottage" as you will see in the Directory – the Drawing does not do it justice – Mr. Martens dislikes to paint Houses – his passion his Landscapes – and I hope you will admire those pieces which James takes – those of Camden are beautiful representations – I cannot judge of the other views, not having been on the Spot from whence they were taken – having thus thrown together a few ideas, I will conclude my scribble

[Page 414]

21.7-36

3

earnestly praying, that dear James, will have a safe Voyage, and that you, two dear ones, may meet each other in health – if it pleases God, to continue to me, such a measure of that inestimable blessing – as I have lately enjoyed, – I promise myself the gratification of writing to you – by every opportunity that offers. – Emmeline is busy putting up little Comforts for James – the two Brothers are just gone over the water to shake all the Vineyardites by the hand he (that is James) expects to find them at this hour assembled at their Luncheon – Mrs. King the older is living with them Capn. K. is there at this present & Lesley may be said to be an inmate – Mr. Gordon is at present in Sydney Mr. Lesly & him have hired a Cottage in Parramatta – Adieu my dearest – my beloved Son – accept our united wishes & prayers for every good which it may please the Almighty to bestow – ever
Your Affect. Mother
E. Macarthur

Mr. Bowman & Mary are well – we have little William here with us

[Page 415]

[Cover sheet]

Major Macarthur

[Page 416]

No. 50

Lyndhurst Decr. 16th 1836

My beloved Sons/

I am told there is a vessel to sail for England tomorrow – and being unwilling that one should depart without a Letter – I sit down to write – my last communication was by the “Vestal" – which sailed about a fortnight since – in the interval there have been several arrivals, and amongst the number Dr. Tarn – and Mr. Dobie – neither of whom, I have yet seen – but the several letters, papers, &c &c committed to their charge have been safely received

I have the pleasure to say, we are all pretty well The Influenza & its debilitating effects, I trust are banished – and your dear Sister Mary has given birth to a young Son – this joyful event took place on the 7th instant – she had been suffering much, previous to her confinement, but since I am happy to say – she has been as well as could be wished – and the little one, also.

The Boys are mightily pleased with the Archery Equipment – they are practicing every day – James “thinks he has wounded a Bronze wing pigeon" – only “He can’t find it". – even Isabella participates in the amusement – and claims one of the targets – to admire – William is still

[Page 417]

at Parramatta with his Aunts. – Edward is in much better health, and is proceeding in his studies very rapidly – James is still dull, but I think a little spur is given to his application by a prospect of his being allowed to go to Parramatta – and perhaps, to Camden, at the Xmas holidays. – their frequent enquiry is – “if I think Uncle James is in England now" and with Uncle Edward"? – Dear William your Brother has been changing the scene a little – he came from Camden, I think this day week, & returns from Parramatta there to-day

Capn. Scott and another Indian are going up to spend a day or two at Camden. – The Macquaids have returned from their country tour – and speak most gratefully of the kind attentions they received at Camden – Mrs. Macquaid was detained a fortnight there by illness. – Mr. Mathison did not return with them, but went to Capn. Rossi’s & perhaps from thence to Arthursleigh – where besides, Hannibal, Maria Annie & Kate – have assembled Mr. Leslie Mr. Gordon – and James – Hinton as he is called – came down to see Dr. Wilson who is an old friend of his Fathers – The

[Page 418]

two James’ & Mr. Leslie have been in the interior – ever since your departure, my dear James. – you will be shocked at hearing of the sudden death of poor William Riley at Cavan on the Murrumbidgee – he had gone thither with his family at the Sheep Shearing – as you may remember, he did this time twelvemonth – much of excitement, I believe prevailed – it is said his death was occasioned by the breaking of a blood vessel his remains are to be removed, and interred at Campbell Town some day in the ensuing week – William purposes to attend the sad obsequy – he saw Mr. George Kemp a day or two since – who appeared to be much grieved. –

Thanks dear Edward for your Letters and communications generally. I believe all have been received that you have written and dispatched up to the end of July – some of the arrivals sailed as late as the 14th of August – but I am not aware of any letter from you later than July. – assure yourself I most gratefully feel your tenderness in the manner of you communicating to me the death of my dear aged Mother that it saddened me, I must allow – the sweet consolatory

[Page 419]

views you present to my mind, in this announcement forbids me to grieve – I am most thankful to Mr. Kingdon – and will endeavour to write to him soon – I have heard an interesting account of this family, from Mr. Henry Kingdon the Son of a deceased younger brother who has lately arrived here – he represents them to be most exemplary in the performance of their moral and religious duties. – Mr. H, Kingdon has obtained a Clerkship in the Convict Barrack – not a place one could have exactly wished for him, but it may lead to something better – he seemed anxious to be employed – Mr. Plunkett recommended this situation as one immediately [vacant?] The Plunketts have been taking a little recreation at Illawarra – since the closing of the Session – when they return – I purpose calling on them –

The Bishop Mrs. & two Miss Broughtons called on me here, the day before yesterday – the Bishop thinks of purchasing a piece of the Church land, in this neighbourhood, to build a House on – they went from hence to look at it and Mr. Bowman accompanied them, as well knowing how the land lay – he complains of want of Clinical assistance – the active

[Page 420]

exertions of poor Parson Hill, as he was called are very much missed in the Town of Sydney – Mr. Cartwright at present is appointed to the duty

The Piano is safely deposited at Parramatta having not heard it – I cannot pronounce on its tones – I know not whether dear William has or has not written to you – I shall only briefly mention the Shearing is finished at Camden the Wool I am told in fine condition is deposited in the Store of Mr. Dawes –

The Harvest is proceeding well – I saw a Characteristic letter from Joseph to that effect – and mentioning the Journey he had “started off" to Taralga to assist in the operations there, amongst the number Thos. Denning – who has given great satisfaction to William by his skill in Wool sorting – and his diligent application to it

Excuse a hurried Scribble – and accept the affectionate remembrances of all here united with the prayers for your welfare of
My beloved Sons
Yr. Affect. Mother
E MacArthur

[Page 421]

[Cover sheet with address panel, part crossed through.]

The Sailing of this vessel has not been noticed in the papers – & therefore William might not have heard of it –

Private

Major Macarthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James’ St.
London

[Page 422]

No. 52.

Lyndhurst Decr. 30th 1836

My beloved Sons/

Two Ships are advertised to sail on Tuesday next – the “Richard Reynolds" and the “Patriot" and although I have little to say – in addition to my several communications by various vessels, the last the Ulysses I am yet unwilling one should go without a letter – and the uncertainty of the different periods of their arrival in England – is an additional motive to write a short letter by each. –

My last Letter was written a fortnight since, & sent by the Brig Ulysses – the day she sailed being very fine Mr. Bowman – who wished to go to the South Head to see if a House was completed – he had been instrumental in recommending to be built for the person in charge of the Light House. – I was very glad to accompany him. We found the Cottage – a very comfortable one – just finished – and Capn. Siddons – most thankful, for the accommodation – having a Wife & nine Children who had been packed together in the Barrack appended to the Tower. – James will recollect Capn. Siddons as (he is called) as an old Colonial – he has been some time in charge at the So. Head – he told us of the Brig which had sailed for England in the morning – after a careful examination Mr. Bowman at length espied her – far far away – like a Speck in the horizon I saw her also – but not before the said Capn. Siddons

[Page 423]

had fixed his Spy Glass – for my accommodation – What a sublime Spectacle does the ocean present – at this place!! I was much gratified by the drive, & thought of all my dear Absentees. – to return from my wanderings – I wrote by the aforesaid vessel that dear Mary was safely confined of a little Boy, both doing well – it is now three weeks – since this joyful circumstance took place. – Emmeline has been here to see her Sister & staid two days – I am now expecting Elizabeth to come, she has hitherto been prevented by an inflammation in her Eye – which proved more troublesome, than those local affections generally are. – William came down on Tuesday Eveng. slept here & went to Sydney to transact business on Wednesday – came back here to dinner – & returned afterwards to Parramatta – purposing to set off for Camden early yesterday morning – in consequence of his being requested to attend the funeral of poor William Riley – in my last letter I wrote you of his sudden death at Cavan" on the Murrumbidgee – the funeral obsequies are to take place at Campbell Town to morrow – Mr. George Kemp takes the active part, I believe, on this sad occasion – he is the nearest

[Page 424]

relative of the deceased. – We have had arrivals which have brought news to the 15th of August – we have received no Letters from you dear Edward, later than the last week in July.

Doctors Dobie, & Tarne dined here, a few days since – I was very glad to hear from each of these Gentlemen such agreeable accounts of you – Dr. Dobie told me he was in the habit of meeting you at breakfast frequently at your Club. – William will invite them to spend a few days at Camden – if he has not already done so –

Hannibal & Maria are still at Arthursleigh – I recd. a letter from Maria – stating they purposed to make their grand move, early in January and hoped for the pleasure of meeting me at Camden – they comprize so large a party, and so many young people that I would rather await for a more tranquil prospect – and the weather has now set in to be excessively warm & dry. – so that I would willingly avoid a bustle. –

Mr & Mrs. Macquaid have returned, they called on me – and expressed themselves highly obliged by Williams kindness to them – We have had a visit to from Colonel Dumaresq – he invited himself to spend the Evening – saying he wished to avoid the heat of the day – we talked of you dear James – and you also dear Edward – he keeps up his spirits

pson – who it seems is appointed at the reduced Salary of £1500 Mr Macpherson to be Secretary to the Council [Vice?] Mr. Deas Thomson – Mr. Riddell to be Collector of internal revenue as well as Colonial Treasurer all these changes to be in operation on Monday next – you may believe there is an unquiet feeling with the Macleays – at so unexpected an arrangement – they profess to have had no idea of Mr. Macleay being superceded – again Mr. D. T. is uncomfortable – the intimacy that has subsisted between him, & the Macleays – occasions a saddened feeling – it is altogether a mystification which no one I have heard speak of it, seems to comprehend. – Mr. Macleay has said he would go to England – but alas at his – & my period of Life such a Voyage as one to England is a serious undertaking – I say my – as my kind friend Mr. Kingdon

[Page 427]

[Cover sheet with address.]

Private

Major Macarthur
Messrs. Herries Farquhar & Co
St. James’s Street
London

[Page 429]

Parramatta at the end of the present week – I believe Schooling will not commence sooner than the middle of next. –

Mr. Bowman & I went to Church yesterday – when we returned, one old friend Dr. Evans met us on the Steps at the front door – he had come from the Ship in a Boat – being anxious to see all here – and to make enquiries into the state of things – he was aware of changes already made, & had seen no one to communicate with – having walked from where he landed – he was very warm & somewhat fatigued – on finding he declined staying to dinner

[Page 431]

a Hunt got up at Boston in America! of course I told the Dr. we had one of the publications – in which in truth I could discover little wit – the Dr. had visited Lucien Bonaparte, now residing at [indecipherable] assisting his son Charles – in the study of Ornithology – they have “Audubon" with them & another celebrated ornithologist whose name I do not remember. – Whilst Mr. B was absent Mr. & Mrs. Deas Thomson came – with Ada & the Infant – they remained some time Mrs. T. sat with Mary – whilst I (as I told her) endeavoured to

Believe me to be
My dear Elizabeth
Yr. Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Address:]
Jany. 2d 1837

this in great haste – to go by Dr. Roberts wo will deliver the packet in St James’s Street he took leave of us yesterday expecting to sail on Sunday
Pray make our kind remembrances to W.S.D. with our united best wishes for his comfort and happiness – and fail not to mention us to our old esteemed friend T.H.S – Mr. Bigge – and others who may remember us –
You will probably see Sir Richard Bourke he called here two or three times since your departure – and came expressly to take leave before he left Parramatta with his Daughter Mrs. D Thomson – he seemed a good deal affected – and so indeed were we – he said he hoped he should

[Page 436]

[For transcription see page 434.]

[Page 438]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. The first three pages transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 57

Parramatta March 23d 1838

My beloved Sons/

I am exceedingly chagrined to find that two Letters addressed to you intended for the “Alfred" which sailed on Sunday last – have by some mistake of the Post-Master at Parramatta been delayed – another Ship is expected to sail on Sunday next and perhaps she may reach England as soon as the Alfred –
Mr. Bowman I know, has written a long letter consigned I believe to the care of Dr. Sproule he has told you of the “Addresses" – and the news of Sydney – it remains for me to write of home affairs – we are all pretty well, both here and at the Vineyard – at Lyndhurst also – at Camden, I am sorry to say – dear William has had & still has, a most harrassing time on account of a fever which broke out amongst the Emigrants – nothing of the kind appeared before the arrival of those William engaged amongst the Gloucestershire families

the disease showed itself first in a young Lad a Son of one of those families – several children were attacked & then many of the women – & men – still I am happy to say there has been as yet no deaths – and from intelligence received by Hughes this morning & a letter from your Brother – there are no fresh cases – but the fever has left delirium & other painful consequences – A Surgeon who came from England in the “Upton Castle’ has been staying at Camden the last fortnight and has had the Sick under his charge Wm. writes that “Dr. Morrison is desirous to leave Camden in a day or two – and that he has every reason to be pleased with his attention to the Sick, & with his kindness and gentlemanly deportment in general he is come to this Country – with an in[tention]

[in]tention to settle in it as I have been told –
Our New Governor has paid two hasty visits to Parramatta – William will have written of his interview with him at Sydney – and that he was much pleased – We shall of course call on Lady Gipps soon – she has been overwhelmed by calls & was not in health to admit visitors so soon after her arrival
Mary has called & been admitted you will be glad to hear that she has also visited the Plunketts – and is very well pleased with her reception – Emmeline has frequently met them & they are always cordial –
I was here interrupted by a visit from Mrs. Hassal and Mrs. Bobart – they took luncheon with us – and we have had a very agreeable chat on old recollections – and on older times – Mr. Hassal has taken great interest in our Emigrants – Mrs. Bobart (late Elizabeth Marsden) is much improved Mr. B her Husband officiates for Mr. Marsden in Parramatta – he is a Gentleman – & I think

[Crossed section:]

will do good – Mr. Marsden who spent an Evening here last week – seems bent on making another voyage to New Zealand – he is under the belief that the Baron de Thierry is endeavouring to make Converts of the Natives to the Roman Catholic faith – the Bishop is also going but first visits Port Phillip & the Southern Settlements
I should tell you – the Marsdens, and indeed all our acquaintance make solicitous enquiries for you both dear Edward & dear James – Mrs. Hassal asked also for our friend T.H.S The Hassals & Mr. & Mrs. C Cooper you are aware are near neighbours – Mrs. C C came to see us a few days since & she also enquired for our friend as well as for you – James. Edward she does not know – I have had Mrs. William Cox here and also poor Mrs. Riley – from Raby – she has left the place being unable to manage the Servants – her three Children & herself are now residing in a Cottage in Parramatta – Our Cottage on the Place is only

[occupied] by Mary Everard at present – but we expect Murray & his wife will return to it again – as he has relinquished his plan of going to England – having two Boys (Nephews) come out to him by the Portland – Nelly was very averse to his going away – and will be very glad to come back to the Cottage which will enable us to be more at Camden I hope – you will hear of the Death of Colonel Dumaresq – he has left a Widow & seven Children – Mr. & Mrs. William Dumaresq were at Port Stephens at the time – application has been made to Mr. Bowman for a residence for the family at one of his Hunters River Establishments – which he did not consider as prudent or convenient to accede to
There is a French Man of War here – four of the Officers with “Monsieur Joubert" have spent four days at Camden They came on Saturday last & returned to Sydney on Wednesday

and were, as Hyles tells me, joyous & well pleased –
Our Cousin Hannibal has purchased at Watsons Bay the Cottage & two acres of Land – they have furnished it – & Maria H & Elizh. & Mary are now residing there – at home are Annie Kate at present James The Boys and younger girls – also Messrs, Leslie Mathison & Gordon – Grandmama is staying at Sydney – Mr. Gordon has rented Westwood from James – so that I suppose will occupy some attention – & he has purchased two flocks of Sheep from Hannibal – Mr. Mathison will soon return to India – and Mr. Leslie will be returning to his uncles Establishment – When the marriage is to take place I have not been told – H has written to you James more than once lately as I learn – both he & Maria are very sensible of your kindness to Charles – Poor Dr. Harris is very ill & his decease daily expected – Mr. Bowman went to Shanes Park to see him about ten days since

[Continued on page 441.]

[Page 440]

[For transcription see page 438.]

both I remain your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur
Elizabeth will add a line

[Page 443]

No. 169

Letter to Sir William Macarthur

The Cases of Plants – They are in the Drays & Mr. [Wm?] will be looking out for them as well as the people" –
I return

well – and repay by their good and industrious conduct, the great care and trouble they have cost you. –

Dear old [indecipherable] Herbert also is quite well, in charge of Merinos at Camden as heretofore and several other “old hands" as they stile themselves – who make frequent enquiries for “the Major" – and when he is coming? and for “Master James" – When William wants assistance – I have been interrupted

[Page 448]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Pages 448 to 450 transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No 58

Parramatta April 27th 1838

My beloved Son/

I have the pleasing intelligence to write, that the German Emigrants – proceeded on from hence towards Camden at a very early hour this morning – all well & cheerful – I saw them all last night for a few minutes – and was highly pleased with their appearance & demeanor – they could not be landed from the “Kinnear" so as to come to Parramatta by the early Steamer – so that it was seven o’clock when they arrived here – we had a supper ready for them – and I saw men – women & children comfortably arranged on either side of a long Table – we afterwards – that is Emmeline & myself, had an interview with the foreman & another and their two wives – in the Dining Room – The Drays were waiting for them & all the Baggage was arranged for departure Plant Cases &c &c – therefore they just reposed a little & set out on their journey – the Children & one of the Parents – in a convenient Breaking

Carriage driven by our Coachman Hyles with a pair of Carriage Horses – to Breakfast at an Inn (Martins) half way – had been previously bespoke – where we hope they have safely reached and are at this moment proceeding from thence on their way to Camden – perhaps we may have the pleasure of hearing of their arrival there in time to communicate to you who have taken so active a part in procuring at no small small expence of time & trouble – families so interesting to our Colony – and such as we trust will be beneficial to ourselves more immediately – I know you will be most solicitous to hear of these poor people which makes me so particular to write all that I can about them at this time This letter must be put into the Post Office before eight o’clock in the Evening to be forwarded by a Ship to sail on Sunday. – I believe & indeed their appearance bespeaks, they had good treatment

on the voyage which was rather long – a Box of fruit has been sent to Capn. Mallard this morng. we will invite him to Camden – in good time –
And now dearest Edward – what shall I say next? thanks for your Letter in the first place – and for the Extract from the [Hambro?] Intelligencer which you have been so good to translate – It is a gratifying announcement – and I could wish to see it in the Columns of our journals but one is afraid of the Press in this Colony – best let sleeping Dogs alone I believe – there is – still strong party feeling – we have discontinued to take the Colonist paper on account of its slanderous tendency – I have before noticed that Emmeline only is here [with] me – Elizabeth and little Willy have been at Camden some time – I am concerned to say – your Brother has been wisely confined to the House almost for several weeks – in consequence of some little injury sustained by a fall from his mare – I say little because the Doctors all say – it is of no consequence more than that he must keep quiet for a while. Since the accident occurred he came to Parramatta, was

[Crossed section:]

at Sydney and in a Party or two he complained of some trifling inconvenience, but it was only after his return to Camden he became more sensible of the injury – As your old acquaintance Dr. Price has been with William more than once and very lately – he can give other particulars – poor William has had a most harrassing time – by the Sickness of the former Emigrants a fever has prevailed amongst them of an alarming nature I am thankful to say notwithstanding, hitherto – there has been no deaths – & excepting in one case only they are all on the recovery that have been attacked – & no fresh Cases have appeared for several weeks – the wife of “Vincent" one of your Dorsetshire people had the fever to a very alarming degree – and followed by delirium long-continued – the Husband a good Groom, came from Camden yesterday – to assist the present expedition in removing – he told me his wife was now quite right again – only weak.
I am interrupted by a visit from your three Cousins – Elizabeth Annie and Mary – many are the kind enquiries

for James and yourself – Hannibal has made a purchase of a Cottage in Watsons Bay at the South head – there he Maria & a part of the family have been residing some weeks past – Mr. Mathison sailed for India on the Upton Castle yesterday week – Mr. Leslie a few days previous went to his Uncles Establishment on the Hunter – Mr. Gordon has taken Westwood & the Estate on the opposite side for a term of years at rent – James himself has an Establishment on the Murrumbidgee, two or three hundred miles away – Phillip King has also a depot of Sheep &c &c a short distance from his Cousin – these young men will probably get rich!
I have not yet seen the Govr. we have paid our respects to Lady Gipps – who appears to be quiet and unaffected – William has had a conversation with Sir George Gipps – & thinks him a talented man

he has been worried with Addresses – and upon my word he has great Credit by the varied replies – he has given to the last from Windsor he seems to expect it will be the last. – I paid a hasty visit to Lyndhurst on Monday Evening – returned the next – I found Mary and her four young people quite well – Mr. Bowman had been away to Ravensworth & his other Estates – a week or two – not expected to return before the 10th May – whilst I was there Mrs. Deas Thomson came to see me – and the day after my return – Mary writes – she had Lady Gippes Mrs. Baring Mrs & the Miss Broughtons & two other Ladies – all at the same time – too many for Mary to talk to!!
We have a family at present residing in Parramatta a Capn. Gordon of the Navy – Wife – Son & Daughter – he is son to the Old Established Wine Merchant at Funchal Island of Madeira the firm “Gordon & Duff" the Upton Castle touched at Madeira for the family – Capn. G is an old Shipmate of Mr. Bowmans I have filled my paper & therefore only [indecipherable] & Wishes the most affect. to you dear James & all [indecipherable] affect Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 450]

[For transcription see page 448.]

I find Emmeline is writing at more length than one would do by Post – therefore I shall close this, & pray excuse all inaccuracies from an Old Woman, I cannot look over what I have written - I have had many enquiries "if the Major is not coming out" & when

On this day week both Emmeline and myself wrote to you at considerable length – our packets were consigned to the care of “Morgan Price", a passenger on the Midlothian, which sailed from Sydney on Sunday last – I wrote a Post Letter besides to tell you of the safe arrival of the Germans and of their Party being on the road to Camden at the time of my writing – which place they reached early in the Evening of that day and are now established in the Dwellings prepared for them near the Vineyard – and as Elizabeth writes to us they appear cheerful & happy – one woman only has an agueish affection – your Brother has been prescribing for her relief – and had already effected a change in the hour of attack – which is said to be one step towards a cure – she brought the complaint from the Ship – I hear of no other

[Page 454]

[For transcription see page 452.]

whomever else dear I have written on a small sheet of paper – not having larger at hand it will plague you to read my letter – Emmeline is quite well – and unites her affectionate wishes, & love with those of My dear dear Edward your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

especially addressed to yourself

[Page 458]

German Protegees my dear Edward are well and fit I do assure you. Willy formed quite an acquaintance with Mademoiselle Christine & several others – as to Marguette we saw her daily & a very good girl she seems – One poor Woman [Wenty?] by name, has had Ague since her arrival & one of the Men also suffered fm. the same complaint but as it does not belong to this Climate they will soon shake the disease off – All the Dorsetshire folks are like old friends now – they have letters from home in reply to their first correspondence & this has contributed to increase their cheerfulness & confidence in us – The German letters were not enclosed to you dear Edwd. but sent separately & unsealed one was addressed to you only –

We received at Camden the melancholy account of Mr. Humphreys death – & W. immediately wrote to beg Fredk. W. continue to come down to us – he did so & was more composed & more cheerful than we could almost have hoped to see him – I pray that the members of his family in England

[Crossed sections on pages 456 and 457. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.:]

may in time be restored to tranquillity – it is a consolation under so heavy an affliction that the children are provided for – pray offer our affectionate remembrances to them all –
We had a visit from the Messrs Mayne also & found them very sensible agreeable persons – Capn. Mayne has suffered severely from ill health but he said that the air of the Country had really benefitted him – they proceeded from Camden to Yass in a gig – I shewed them the Anemones & Ranunculus you dear James purchased all growing bonnily – that is yr. second purchase for as you had anticipated those packed in the bale of Moss are quite spoiled – not one root will grow – Alas for all the [indecipherable] – I am hurried for the Post & have only time to add that as our previous letters have complained of drought we have just had the [indecipherable]

& most welcome relief of 12 hours rain –
A letter from William this minute (6 oc) come tells of the rain having fallen more heavily at Camden than here – “it will thank God!" he says “bring up the Wheat and do a world of good in every other respect – this is indeed a most timely relief for we were very very anxious
William also writes that he is quite better & sends a lovely little new flower to please me being one I had watched budding – Again I am hurried here
Most affectionately
I am dearest brother yr Elizh. MacArthur
All at Lyndhurst are well
Friday June 15th 1838

[Page 460]

No 61.

Parramatta August 16th 1838

My beloved Son/

By the Kinnear Capn. Mallard who is to sail on Sunday next, I write a few lines, believing you like to see my hand writing – though it be a sad, almost illegible scribble – I do not address dear James hoping he will be on his voyage hitherward before this arrives. – I have lately received a packet from you of old notes & a letter, wherein you tell me of “Sir Maurice O Connel" [Sir Maurice Charles O’Connell, 1768-1848] having called upon you
we had before heard of his appointment, to command the Troops here – it had been offered to several general officers, & refused – the Salary having been deemed inadequate – I conclude some possessions here, are the attraction. – Sir Maurice is a good natured man, how Lady O’Connel will endure the Colony remains to be seen – poor Fitzgerald who is in very bad health, sent me a letter some time since in which he mentions Genl. O Connels appointment – & says “We were great friends once but I have heard that friendship like fire if it is not fed, it will go out"

[Page 462]

I saw Dr. Dobie also – and Dr. Lawrence who had met dear James, in Kent – I think he said – Frederick Thompson has lately been with us he returned on Monday last – he is looking very well and growing very Stout. – I was glad to hear the good accounts of his Mother & Sister, which he had just received in a much admired letter from the former

Hannibal’s Brother & his two Sons, are now at the Vineyard – we think that John resembles poor Charles! – the Alligator will soon proceed on her destination, I trust they will select a fortunate spot to make a Settlement – poor Barker strongly, I believe, advocated by letters some particular place – on every account, it is desirable they should select wisely – the whole of that great and ill constructed machine, the So Australian Settlement or rather its habitants are together by the Ears – Govr. Hindmarsh on his way to England! Capn. Sturt set out to pay a visit to this City in the desert – Mrs. Sturt is in daily expectation of tidings from him, it seemed to us a wild scheme he has taken stock in charge to dispose of at this City of Adelaide – where I hope he may do so with

[Page 464]

16?

No. 62

Lyndhurst Thursday 3 o’clock
Nov 8 1838

My dear Elizabeth

Poor dear little Bill! We had no idea of his ailment! – truly rejoiced to hear of his amendment, which we hope will continue – James has been indisposed more or less for two or three days past – his, is, a sort of Colic – attacking him at certain hours, in the day –

I did not write yesterday having literally, nothing whatever to say. – you will now rejoice with me to learn that Mr. Bowman returned by the Steamer last night – he reached

[Page 466]

remained a considerable time and we had a long & agreeable Chat – enquiries kind for you all – Mr. & Mrs. D Thomson also called – they look anxious and both are looking as if they had been ill – Mrs. T is very solicitous for accounts of her Father – the Mail had not been loaded from the Maitland – she promised to acquaint me, if she rec’d any letters – Capn. Fyans came out to take leave to-day about 12 o’clock – he was surprized to find Mr. Bowman returned

Mr. Bowman says the Erskines are coming from Newcastle to Vineyard next week - report is, to be present at Kates Marriage – I scarcely believe it Mr. Erskine looks ill – Mrs. B. says – I hope you have had the fine Showers of rain, which have fallen here this morning

[Page 469]

[Address panel and note. Scribble at the top of the page marked:]
Isabellas writing

I hope the rain has extended to Camden

I have not seen Murray – but he sent your Letter, the Evening of his return – written from Sydney – dear William!!

you will see, how excessively anxious he was for my return – I believe I left Lyndhurst a day or two after the 8th Novr. –

have been confined by severe Influenza until within the last week –

Jany 12th 1839

[Address panel:]
By Watsford – Thursday Novr. 9th 1838

Miss Macarthur
Elizabeth Farm
Parramatta

[Page 471]

about your coming on Sunday Eveng. – it must in some measure depend on yourselves – you will naturally wish, for a few hours to communicate with Mary – and we are all averse to have Servants here longer than can well be avoided – therefore arrange it as you best can – Mr. Bowman did not go into Sydney yesterday – after I had written, Mr. Macalister came on Horseback, professing he could not stay dinner – but that he was, determined to “start" for Camden, by the Campbell Town Stage this morning – he did however remain to dinner but went away soon after – he was looking harrassed, and in a state

[Page 473]

wrote a few lines to William to tell him of Mr. Bowmans return, &c &c and to say I was now ready to revisit Parramatta

I have my doubts of Macalister setting out this morning but I am sure it is his wisest plan to get away from the Town – I am solicitous for the next accounts from Camden you will have these [I understand?] by Toby to morrow Eveng., unless Vincent may have come –

I have nothing more to communicate – Mary is still delicate – but more of this

[The rest of this letter appears to be missing.]

You do not say whether your Brother proposes to go to Camden

[Page 476]

obliged to lie on the sofa very much as you were, for some time – My Cold fluctuates some times better, & sometimes worse. – It is vexatious that the Carriages, are all out of repair – I knew the Phaeton was stated to be so, but heard not of the German Carriage

Mary says the Carriage here can come up for one of you any morning – that is, when the Harness, which was this morning taken to Town to have some repairs – is returned – John thinks it will come home to morrow.

Capn. Fyans will not give me an opportunity of delivering the Contents of any

[Page 480]

Thursday –
I thought you would have sent your Dress to-day – but find there is nothing at the turnpike. – The two Boys last Evening, took a ride The Coachman who accompanied took a hat box with a large Collection of beautiful flowers to Mrs. Thomson – She was out –

No-one has been here from the Town to-day, but I shall conclude, and put up this to be ready with our united love to both and to Willy – “The dissolving"

[Page 482]

No. 170.

Lyndhurst Tuesday
Nov. 1838

My dear William/

I return Capn. Dumaresq’s letter – as you will wish to reply to it – and as Mr. B is – or will, be at Ravenswick himself – reference can again be had to him, as you have had no opportunity to communicate with him – I did not get the letters by Capn. Fyans before the Emigrant, who had been waiting here, had gone away – if I hear any more

[Page 484]

only seven miles from “Invermein" – Mr. Maynes future head quarters –

So dear William you are to dine with Mr & Mrs [indecipherable] – you will be congratulated and talked to, not a little

Major Smyths letter – and others, I suppose, have told of dear James’s Marriage – May god grant them health & happiness – Ever
My dr. William
your affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

Mr. B gave me the enclosed before he went away, to send to you

[Page 486]

No 171.

from Lyndhurst? 1838?

My dear Elizabeth

Many thanks for your welcome dispatch to-day – Mary has just read it to Mr. Bowman – who is quietly fixed in his Dressing room – his odd remarks would amuse you – but it is too warm to write much. here is a day indeed – and a hotter day, than friday was – I think –

I had heard from Murray on Saturday Evening – all that you had done – and I am sure William will approve of the prompt measure taken. I return the Note you enclosed. – when I wrote on Saturday Mr. & Mrs. Macleay Major & Mrs. Innes had just come in – there was

[Page 489]

before – I believe, on the day I met her. –

I went to Church yesterday taking with me, the young Miss Macgregor, and Edward –

I am glad William is pleased with Capn. Hobson – and also glad the Vineyard family returned all safe & well on a Cool Evening – We must soon have some [change?] this is [indecipherable] to continue long. With our united Love to all Emmeline Self & Willy I am my dear Elizh.
Yr. Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Crossed section:]
for a more zealous and warm hearted friend than Macalister there cannot be I wish for the sake of himself & his friends his zeal were more modified by discretion – Remember us duly and kindly to all our friends – and believe me to be with the best affections of those dear ones around me
My dear Edward
your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 492]

No. 64.

Parramatta Novr. 21st 1838

My beloved Son/

Seeing a notification in the “Sydney Gazette" of yesterday that the Ship “Dryade" was to sail to morrow I take courage to write a few lines, in all apprehensiveness lest she should sail without a letter – In the first place, let me thank you for your various communications – the latest from you my dear Edward, and from James and his beloved Emily are dated the 28th June. yours from London – theirs from Richmond –

I hope and trust they are embarked now their voyage for this their destined abode may the Almighty bless & prosper them. I cannot but feel considerable anxiety lest the Country – and habits of the Community may disappoint my Daughter-in-law – but I hope much from the good sense which you say she possesses – assuredly this Colony in very many instances, is too flatteringly depicted

[Page 494]

the same conveyance, in which I came home – Elizabeth came for me, therefore you will infer, that she is well, and dear Em received us very joyfully – she had Mr. Deas Thomson partaking of an early dinner with her, unexpectedly, he having been on business to the Govr. who with his family are at present residing at Parramatta We met Mr. Thomson on the road –

William was quite well a day or two since very busy Sheep Shearing at Camden – not I am sorry to say Harvesting – the usual accompaniment – the Wheat Crop has entirely failed, from long continuance of drought – I will not enlarge upon a painful subject, it is the will of God we must submit to it, and endeavour to do so, without repining – dear William is patience personified – he has had a good deal of Sickness, amongst the

[Page 496]

[This letter written and then crossed at 90° to the original. Transcribed in full here. Paragraph breaks indicate a new page.]

No. 65

18

Sunday 27th Jany. 1839
6. o’clock

My dearest William/

This is my first attempt of letter writing – since my long illness – and I have the satisfaction of acquainting you that in the last week, I have gained strength very perceptively to myself and evident to those around me – for which blessing I hope I am sufficiently thankful to the almighty
You may believe we were rejoiced to hear from our kind friend Mr. Anderson

of your safe return to Camden. Mr. A did not arrive until nearly dark on friday Eveng. having stopped with Mr. Holt at Liverpool
Elizabeth & little Bill had on the same Evening gone to Lyndhurst intending to return last Evening. we conclude she was prevented from doing so by a Thunder storm, which visited us slightly but appeared to pass on to Sydney with more

violence – Whether she may return this Evening (being Sunday) or not remain until to-morrow, remains to be seen. – I need not tell you – who will have witnessed the sad effects of the excessive hot weather days we have had!! – I was [though?] comforted to learn from Mr. A. that you found things so generally satisfactory at Richlands – and particularly gratified – at the amiable arrangement you have been

enabled to make with Mr. Young – I was quite solaced to hear of it – and now what have I to tell you? – dear Emmeline is well – and I hope Elizh will return benefitted by a little change, & and a Chat with her Sister – Bill also who has had many relapses – & was much reduced – but I hope the Enemy is conquered at length
I have had a visit from Sir George & Lady Gipps –

[Crossed section:]

a very kind one – we are invited to dine at Govt. House on Saturday next. Lady G in her note [indecipherable] scarcely to expect I shall feel equal to come, but expressed her wishes that I might –
We have had frequent communications with the Vineyard – Maria is getting quite better, is in excellent spirits – saw Mr. Anderson – who went over yesterday morning and some hours – after his return he received a note from Mr

Betts – to say – the Plate subscribed as a small tribute of gratitude from a few friends was at Mr. Forrests, and ready to be presented to him – & wished to know if he would receive it there – to Mr. Forrests he proceeded – and there received the grateful testimonial of a few friends – he seemed much gratified – he brought the Box on the Chaise here – it is a very handsome Tea & Coffee Service – very Massy and in

very good Taste –
Major Smyth called yesterday with Miss Meyrick – he was kindly conveying her back to School – Mr. & Mrs. Tingcomb also called – I am much pleased with Mrs. T
Mr. & Mrs. Campbell also walked over in the Evening – and we had an agreeable chat of an hour or two. Mr. C. subscribed to the Plate – and now my dear Son

I have exhausted my gossipping vein & tired my fingers – and I fear your patience –
We have no further intelligence of dear James – than that with which you are acquainted - you will be pleased to learn that the Cottage is nearly ready – for the accommodation of him and Emily – and I conclude myself Dear William
Your Affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 498]

[For transcription see page 496.]

[Page 500]

No. 66.

Parramatta March 6th 1839

My dearest Edward/

I have just put up for you a variety of Notes, & Letters – all of recent date – these will show you as to our present position – and convey more information than a commented detail from ourselves, indeed when I selected & put them together – I did not think I could have written another line to you beyond the memorandums, or rather the explanatory remarks I had written on some of the Letters, but I feared you would not have a letter from your Sisters – by our punctual & worthy friend Dr. Roberts – who has acquainted us that the Everetta [Eweretta] in which he takes his passage will positively sail on Saturday next – & he wishes to receive our commands, as he is pleased to say – and what we have to send on friday – Judge Burton goes in the same Ship – the Colony will have a great loss in him – and very sorry are we, at his determination to go – You will have learnt

[Page 502]

Letter for dear James to the Master of the [indecipherable], which will be delivered on board

I need not tell you, how anxious I feel – a little increased apprehension – perhaps from its having been told to us – with what splendour & gaiety dear James & his Bride were surrounded, at Edinburgh – this from a person who called on James for a letter to William – a young Scotchman of course I have forgotten the name – I hope and trust there may be no disappointment on their arrival – the Season is so [miserable?] – and there is such a number of Emigrants to add to the Establishment at Camden – that you cannot wonder I should feel apprehensive – how they are all to be fed, and accommodated

Dear William is preparing, in the best manner he can – what with the failure

[Page 504]

6.3.39

Macalisters Horse running away – and breaking the Shafts of his Gig – when he was promising preparing to convey Mr. Roberts to Camden –

I must not omit to tell you that the Govr. and Lady Gipps called several times during my illness & since I left my room, they called to congratulate me thereupon – what I have seen of them I am much pleased with – and Lady G is of gentle – and concilitary manner – they affect very little personal Shew – yet entertain very handsomely Sir George has a very Clever expression of Countenance

Mr. Riddell has two years leave of absence from his duties as Colonial Treasurer – Mr. Lawrenz Campbell [Pieter Laurentz Campbell] who has been our Police Magistrate for the last three years – is to take Mr. Riddels place – & he is already gone to Sydney – his little wife & three little ones, who are our near Neighbours – & have occupied a new Cottage on the Estate of the late Dr. Harris

[Page 506]

6.3.39

Mr. Anderson was kind enough to visit the Sick at Camden, in Williams absence to Argyle he remained there from the time the enclosed was written until your Brothers return –

Mr. A. has resigned his situation – on the Medical Establishment having previously obtained Six months leave of absence from the present Govr. on account of ill health – he at present occupies a part of the Cottage – Apartments being reserved for James & Emily – which are fitted up with as much comfort and convenience, as the place will admit of

The Cottage had been somewhat neglected since poor Mrs. Lucas’s decease – it is now brightened up & looks at once both tranquil and cheerful – let T.H.S. know this – and thank him for his Letters to me – I cannot write to him now – I have only newly read those letters & yours my dear Edward announcing the Death of the respected Marchioness Dowager of Cholmondely!! I was too ill to read them when they arrived –

[Page 508]

No. 68.

20

Parramatta Jany 10th 1840

My beloved Son/

I will endeavour to scribble a few lines to you – however brief they may be – to thank you for your very acceptable letters fraught with sentiment of such warm affection – they are very [cheering?] to me , and I only can regret that I cannot give oral testimony that they are so –

I write as you will perceive from Parramatta dear ancient Parramatta!! – which it is now quite the fashion to admire as an antiquity in respect to the date of the Colony – and the old Cottage Garden & Grounds attract great admiration from most Strangers – I have not left home even for Lyndhurst since the arrival of dear James & Emily – the Influenza I believe left some disease in the Constitution which I have been obliged to take active

[Page 510]

is now just returned from paying a visit to Lady Gipps – and Mrs. Hobson who is staying at Govt. House – Capn. Hobson now proceeding to New Zealand, we knew before – Lady Gipps frequently favors us with a visit, & sometimes the Governor – Reginald their only Child a very fine Boy is quite attached to Willy Bowman – they are nice play fellows – you will say that is quite Gossip – what shall I tell you more to the purpose – seven [indecipherable] have returned to Camden which conveyed to Sydney one hundred Bales of Wool, to be embarked on the “Bussorah Merchant" of which you will have been apprized by James (without doubt) –

[Letter continues, written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth:]

Dearest brother
Our Mother was interrupted by [more?] visitors

[Page 512]

19

No 69

Parramatta 31st March 1840

My beloved Son

Again it is permitted me to address you from our old habitation – and I thank God, in tolerable health I should say good - but that I am occasionally subject to nervous flutterings which disorder me so, as to prevent me from writing or indeed doing any thing – and yet wishing to do fifty – so much for myself – and now let me thank you for your two last received Letters – the one by our attentive kind friend Dr. Roberts – who made an incredible short passage The most speedy that has ever been made from London to Sydney. – he dined at Lyndhurst with the Bowmans, your brother William & Sister Elizabeth just seventy five days, after he had dined with you!! and now he is soon to take his departure again – this letter however I purpose to send by Mr. Bagster who has taken his passage with Capn. Mallard – he came to take leave of us last week, and promised to take charge of letters. – I really rejoice that he is enabled to return to his

The Govr. & his family have been residing at Parramatta for two or three months – They are just now removed again to Sydney – during

[Page 516]

? 47

No 95

Lyndhurst Sunday April 5th 42 1840

you will observe by the letter of James, his reason for not returning to Parramatta as he thought to have done – accordingly myself & Emmeline set off for Lyndhurst between 3 & 4 o’clock on the afternoon of Thursday – and on our arrival we were welcomed by Bowman Mary & James who had come out from Sydney to dinner – returning to the Club to sleep & finish his business transactions – Frederick was also to have come, but did not – we had the pleasure to find all here, quite well and looking so – James & Emmeline returned to Parramatta last Evening – and as Mr. Bagster has promised to come her to-day – I hasten to finish this to give him – yet Mr. Bowman seems to doubt whether Capn. Mallard will sail for some days – however the Plant Cases &c &c are embarked, and there is a great satisfaction in the feeling, you are [ready?] – I send you by Mr. Bagster some of my latest Correspondence with Emily – you will see how things are – and what may be expected I trust I shall be enabled to go to Camden next month – when we may look for cooler

I put up a letter, from Elizabeth, written to Emmeline since I left home – it is, I think, in a more legible hand, than she sometimes addresses you in. – Once more – My dear Edward I sign myself our ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 520]

21

No. 70

Lyndhurst May 22nd 1840

My dearest Edward/

I write a Post Letter, in the expectation that some one of the many Vessels advertizing to sail for England may really do so, in the course of a day of two –

The tidings I have to communicate, I am assured you will gladly receive – dear Emily was in the Evening of friday last, safely delivered of a fine little girl This event took place some weeks sooner than was expected, but nevertheless, there is no reason, to believe it was earlier that it ought to have been – dear James’s letters, & Dr. Hills report continue to be very favorable as to the well doing of both the Mother & Infant. – A long letter from James, by Post, I have just received, which in addition to the above – states they have had a heavy fall of rain, which had at the time he wrote, penetrated eight inches or more into the cultivated land – and probably half that depth in the Forest – and as it has been raining very heavily here the greater part of

[Page 523]

by Mr. Bagster – and again by Dr. Roberts, wo has large packets from several members of the family –

The Harp has been received and also the Tablet to the memory of our excellent departed friend – These have been [landed?] since I came here – and I have heard nothing further – except indeed, that the Harp was most highly approved of – by the person for whom it was intended – and to whom it was last week forwarded. –

Some days since, the Govr. called here and acquainted me with the appointment of your Brother James to be a Member of Council, in the room of Capn. King – Sir George said he thought I might have known it – & that he had written to london the day before – but I was quite taken by surprize having had no idea of the kind – James has of course acceded to the appointment – which is from home – and will be installed in the course of a week or two – when the Council is expected to be assembled. – I have spun this out into a much longer epistle than I intended and therefore

[The rest of this letter appears to be missing.]

[Page 524]

No 71

22

Camden Friday
2. o’clock
July 1840

My Dearest Mary

As I know you will be anxious to hear how dear Edward is after his journey – and after having passed the first night after it – I scribble a few lines to say – that “Uncle William" his nephew, & George Macarthur safely arrived about 3 o’clock yesterday – as I was not quite prepared to expect Edward, you may judge of my surprize & pleasure – at his appearance and I assure you of Emilys also – we had been sauntering about in the morning – mutually

[Page 525]

expressing a wish, that he might come, with William – with respect to George – he had fixed to come – some time since – Emily and I were in the verandah holding a parley with some Natives and administrating to a sickly infant amongst them all connexions of Brodberry as the travellers alighted in the yard – They walked in – & took us quite by surprize

Edward was not so much tired, but that after, having

[Page 526]

taken some refreshment, he was nothing loth, for a ramble accordingly we all set out to see, what was to be seen about the Town, & garden

Emily and myself proceeded on to “Belgenny" [Alias?] ([Spectacle?] Ponds) accompanied by George leaving William & Edward to their quiet horticultural talk – we returned to dinner, when the dear Boy, was very prudent in what he eat. – We all retired to rest at 10 o’C tell Mr. Bowman – having

[Page 527]

July 1840

previously arranged that Edward should sleep in my Dressing room, where there is a comfortable bed – and a constant fire – besides being immediately opposite the room I sleep in – so that by keeping Both doors open & the lamp in the passage he is quite at ease. & free from nervous apprehension

I gossipped with him last night, after he was in Bed until he fell asleep – in the night, he walked into

[Page 528]

July 1840

my room to tell me how “beautifully bright the Stars shone in the Window" – and that he had just heard the Clock strike five" (I think)

dear Child, he returned to his Bed, and soon fell asleep again – To day they have been fully occupied in seeing the Contents of the newly arrived Plant Cases – examined and disposed of – you would have been delighted to see the Group at this examination [indecipherable] Mr. Robertson – Blake – and William Edward & George – superintending – I cannot describe the intense solicitude of some of the party – as I have written to the end of my paper – I can only add our united kind, & affectionate remembrances to yourself Mr. B & the Children
Ever – my dearest Mary
Your affect. Mother
E. Macarthur

[Page 529]

[Address panel and note, beginning on the lower panel]

I conclude James will have returned to Parramatta – before you receive this – Emily writes to him there – should he however be in Sydney – say all is well here
We have been walking about James and boy also –

[Address panel:]

Mrs. Bowman
Lyndhurst
Sydney

4th July
(just received)

[Page 530]

23

No.72

Parramatta Decr. 18th 1840

My beloved Son/

I believe a much longer time has elapsed, since I last wrote to you than it has been usual with me, to allow to pass without sending a few lines – sometimes I wish for a friendly conveyance – in order to amplify and gossip – without the apprehension of expense of Postage.

I am now more especially induced to write to thank you my dear Edward for a letter received the Evening before last – No. 13 – it is little more than a Copy of one from Mr. Kingdon – so kind – so full of tender recollections that I was overcome by the personal – Well indeed do I remember the “East park" – the old Vicarage House – its aspect towards the Sea – from whence rude gales would frequently shake & assail the upper apartments more especially – those scenes of my Childhood – & growth cannot easily be forgotten – nor will the memory of dear friends, departed – nor those that still remain that were my young playfellows be effaced from my memory – whilst it pleases God – that I retain that faculty – Mr. Kingdon forgets my age, when he

[Page 531]

speaks of my return to my still dear Native Land. The time is far past!! – Mr. Kingdons Nephew [indecipherable] Nicholson was introduced to Emily by a connexion of his and James took the earliest opportunity of calling on him at Sydney & met him at a dinner party afterwards at Govt. House – I was at Camden at the time of his arrival and for several weeks afterwards – and now he is on detachment.

Thanks dearest Edward for all that you have done for my poor Sister Mrs. Harker!! I pray that she & her family may establish themselves, in comfort, in the Land of their adoption – where there is, I trust, a field for virtuous industry to exert itself. – I can only say once for all that I am abundantly thankful to you my Son for all you have so considerately done, to meet my wishes – & at the same time to spare my feelings on this, and also on former occasions. –

This is to go by one of two Ships, said to sail on Sunday Dr. France expects to sail early in January, & by him it is intended you should receive letters from various members of the family & particularly your Sisters – they are all I am happy to say in good health – as well as James William – Emily & your young niece Elizabeth of

[Page 532]

of Camden – Dear James returned from Sydney last Evening after attending Council & exerting himself (not a little) to counteract the mischievous effects the dismemberment of the Colony would have caused – & which has – as it seems been so happily counteracted by your efforts – the Lady MacNaughton with news to the 30th August has brought the interesting intelligence – James wrote to you this morning before he set out for Camden & he will have explained what has been done by the Council here, before the arrival of the Lady M. & what is in contemplation further to do – he will also have enclosed to you a letter from Emily which I received by Post last Eveng. as it gives a vivid description of Camden & the Country I thought it would be pleasing to you to receive it in its freshness – when I gave it James to enclose I did not feel assured my hand would be sufficiently steady to write myself – We had three Boys Edward James & Willy Bowman last night – Edward came to accompany his

[Page 533]

Brother James (who is at School at Parramatta) home for the holidays – Willy stays here – poor little fellow – he had the misfortune to fracture his left arm, & has been at Lyndhurst under his fathers care for several weeks, until a few days since – the arm is now pronounced to be quite well – he talks to me of Mr. de Salis as also does Edward – I have not seen him yet he has however been staying at Camden and frequently at Lyndhurst. – I would willingly write of various persons, but in truth it bewilders me – Mr. Frederick Bigge has not returned from Swan River – none of his friends knew of his expedition – I believe he has been gone nearly two years – perhaps I may be mistaken as to the time – a Gentleman from Swan River who was at Camden a week or two since, said Mr. Bigge was waiting to return by the “Beagle" H Majestys surveying Ship commanded by a very worthy man Capn. Wickham – engaged to Annie Macarthur – Kate has been married to Mr.

[Page 534]

23

Leslie three months or more – they are living at Dunheved Capn. Kings Estate, and late residence – Mr. Leslie rents it – The two younger Brothers – are in the Forest on a Station as it is termed – all the young Men who came out at the same time are Squatters with one or two exceptions – I have written to you before of the Everards, and of a week one of the Brothers spent at Camden whilst I was there – he seemed very chearful told me one of them wrote every month to their family. – Sir George & Lady Gipps came to Parramatta for a day this week They called here & staid a quarter of an hour on their return, taking the road which leads privately through this Estate – we like both very much – & think they improve exceedingly on acquaintance – the Govr. is a frank, warm hearted man – Lady G. amiable & sensible. – Now my dearest Edward I must conclude with prayers for your continued health – and ever lasting happiness
Your ever affect. Mother
E. MacArthur

[Page 535]

[Address panel and note written by Elizabeth Macarthur’s daughter Elizabeth. Written and crossed at 90° to the original, beginning on the lower panel; crossed section written in two columns.]

My dearest brother

I take our beloved Mother’s pen to thank you for the few affectionate lines you last sent me and to say that I feel so mightily encouraged by the remark “that you could read a letter I had written" at some previous time “perfectly well". That is my intention to trouble you with a long epistle shortly partly to thank you for all the trouble you gave yourself in sending our commissions by the [indecipherable] & partly to tell you

[Continued on crossed section, right-hand panel:]

Mr. King called here to day & requests his kind remembrances – he sees the good old Lady every week when she is at Vineyard

[Then crossed section, left-hand panel:]

All sorts of Gossip – meanwhile accept the most affectionate love of two Sisters from yr, Eliza. MacA

I am hurried

[Page 536]

[From page 536 onward, letters are typed copies of a selection of earlier handwritten ones. Notes and handwritten queries often presented in parentheses or with question marks; transcribed as on the original typed version. Where the original word is not crossed out, the correction is shown in parentheses.]

Parramatta,
March 26, 1824.

My dearest John:

I am just apprised of the ship William Shand being to sail for Batavia tomorrow. As I know letters sent by this route have not unfrequently reached England as soon as those despatched by direct conveyance, I am induced at this very short notice even to risk a letter and particularly as the Courier, which is our first vessel expected to sail for England, will not go before the second week in April, and perhaps not then. My first communication shall be to you, my beloved son, that we are all well. Your father, James and William are at Camden. James left us this morning, unknowing of this ship’s sailing, and we, that is James, myself and dear Mary, came from Sydney only last evening, where I had been staying a few days. I went to call on Mrs. Forbes. Mr Bowman drove up from Sydney this morning, and communicated the intelligence which will trouble you with this letter.

You will be pleased to learn that the Guildford arrived safe on the 5th of this month. Your father was at Sydney at the time, staying with Mr. Bowman and Mary, so that he had the pleasure to receive our letters and pay his compliments to the new Judge immediately. Your dear father was exceedingly pleased and rejoiced after first seeing and welcoming Mr. Forbes. He hastened home to us to impart the joy of his suit (visit?) He went to Sydney again the Monday following to attend the ceremonial of the Judge landing. Mr. and Mrs. Forbes and the children came to Government House Parramatta on the Tuesday, remained until Saturday. Mr. Forbes and the Governor called here on Wednesday. We all dined at Government House on Thursday. Sir Thomas and Mr. Forbes went to Emu Plains Friday, returned to Sydney Saturday, as I said before. Thus ends my history of the week.

Mr. Forbes said he had much to talk of with us hereafter. “He was now looking on." Told me he wished the

[Page 537]

Hibernia might not arrive for five or six weeks; that he might look about before he entered on duty. Your father went to Camden the day after he dined at Government House. I am in hopes the land is at length in a fair way to be settled. Major Goulburn, however has resisted in every way he could, and now withholds the buildings and paddock and requires your father to enter into some securities with the Crown Solicitor. His letters are a tirade of nonsense. However he is moved to go himself to the Cow pastures, actually set off yesterday, was to sleep at Liverpool last night. He told d’Arrietta he was going to put Macarthur in possession of Camden, that he should take up his abode with him one night, as the Government House was on Mr. Macarthur’s land he thought he had better not stay there – laughed very heartily at this and seemed to think it a very fine joke about to be finished – this, d’Arrietta told James when he saw him at Sydney yesterday morning. James set out this morning to communicate to his father what was going on. Colonel Balfour of the 40th, Patrick Campbell, one of Lochard’s sons, and George Innes, are at Camden, the two latter on a visit to William, the former to your father. Perhaps some of the party may encounter the Major. We think he has a double purpose to answer in this extraordinary undertaking. His friend, Dr. Douglass’s farm joins D’Arietta’s. The family are visiting them.

You will be astonished to hear that Dr. Douglass secretly took his departure in the Ocean was in fact smuggled on board when the ship was nearly at sea with an order from the Colonial Secretary to the Commander. The Captain hastened to take him, being “sent on affairs of Government." You will no doubt be surprised at all this, as no letters by the Ocean could prepare you to expect the arrival of a person of so much importance, and one who has been given such a prominent actor in the history of the Colony in the past two years. You will also be surprised that he should have been appointed by the Government “Judge of the Court of Requests" before the arrival of Mr. Forbes, the

[Page 538]

Charter not yet arrived – a year’s salary, at least two thousand dollars advanced him out of the Police Fund. This seems so wonderful and perhaps is only to astonish weak minds.

You had very long details sent you by the Ocean, but you could not expect Dr. Douglass would be in the vessel. I believe I may say his character is gone with him. I hope I may be forgiven if I judge him wrongfully.

I will turn to a more agreeable subject. We are now daily expecting the arrival of the Hibernia. The William Shand brought us a letter from dear Edward, which advises his having taken his passage in the first-mentioned vessel, and that she was to sail on the 20th October. I need not say how anxiously we are looking forward to this long-expected meeting. Mr. and Mrs. Forbes tell me that you, my dear dear John, told them you also thought of coming to see your native land. I started with joyful surprise at the thought. Edward is to tell us all. I confine myself in this letter to facts as close as I can. By the Courier I hope to write you a long epistle. The Competitor, on board of which vessel our wool is sent, sailed the 4th February. Mr. and Mrs. Field left this Colony in her. You will have had to wade through a vast heap of letters and papers by that vessel, and again by the Ocean. These letters will vex and perplex you about the land, but I hope it will all end well. As the Major has set in motion in truth I wish your father and him could adjust matters amicably. James sent in his card to the office yesterday, and wished to speak to him, but the M. is so stubborn and mulish in his habits that there is no doing anything with him unless it be in the way of a joke. He dearly loves a pun, even seriously. On account of many things, I wish he had not set himself so much against your father’s interest. I think this same Douglass has been a principal cause of the great disunion in the respectable part of the community here. I think it probable

[Page 539]

he will call on you with some fine tale. He is highly theatrical, and very sentimental; you will understand him, though, I am sure. I must hasten to finish off this scrawl. I write by candlelight, the family all in bed. This must be my excuse for a wandering letter. I shall send It to Sydney by the stage coach under cover to Mr. Icely, requesting he will give it to the Commander, and desire it may be forwarded by the first conveyance from Batavia.

Your sister Elizabeth has been troubled with a little intermittent fever. She is better, and I hope will soon be restored to her usual standard of health. Emmeline is quite well, Mr. Bowman and Mary quite well and happy. They are both here at this time. The Doctor is going to visit some of the out stations. Mary remains with us the while. Your father has had better health and for a longer time together than I have known him to enjoy for quite a very long time.

You will have learned that we have had a scorching dry summer. A few showers which have lately fallen has given us a little verdure but we want rain still very much. The lambing season is about commencing, so that the being put in possession of Camden Estate will be of great importance. I trust it will take place without further delay. We are all fully sensible how much you have exerted yourself for the benefit of your family. No one is more sensible of it than your father.

I hope our dear Edward will arrive before the Courier sails so that you may be acquainted with the good tidings and receive answers on many interesting subjects. You asked me if the high lands would be desirable at Camden. Doubtless they would be. Bad neighbours would be a nuisance: none but bad ones would take a grant in such a situation. Your father will write on this subject when the one on hand is settled.

God bless you and preserve you, my beloved sons, prays your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

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General Hospital, Sydney.
December 16, 1826.

My dearest John:

I am not a little mortified that a vessel, the Corsair, belonging to the house of Aspinall and Burns [corrected to read Brown], sailed direct for England on the 5th of this month, without taking a single line from any of us. I was about to write the day before her departure when the Archdeacon came in and said he had learned she would not sail for two or three days. We was therefore prevented from writing by the extraordinary punctuality of the commander, who sailed on the day he advertised to do. This has been the subject of a discussion in our newspapers, and they even went so far to state that your father sat up two or three nights, writing letters and statements which were despatched by the Corsair. It is true your father did intend to write you a short letter. He had arrived from Parramatta a few days before in very indifferent health, and came to Sydney to try the benefit of a change. I am glad to say he is better, still here, and will remain until the latter end of the ensuing week. James and Emmeline came to us the day before yesterday, leaving Elizabeth and Mrs. Lucas well at Parramatta. They returned to them this evening. William paid us a visit for a few days last week. He is looking well and as usual, cheerful. He is now amidst his duties and various avocations at Camden. We had a letter from him yesterday. James, who is writing at the same table with me, will perhaps tell you of our having no less than four King’s Ships here, the Warspite, with Commander Sir James Brisbane, and his family, consisting of Lady B. the two Miss Brisbanes and a son, Lieutenant Brisbane; The Volage commanded by Captain Dundas, son of Lord Melville; the Success, commanded by Captain Stirling, and the Fly, that has been several months in this station, commanded by Captain Wetherall. This last is despatched to form settlements at King George’s Sound, and one at Western Port in Bass’s Straits.

[Page 541]

We have also a French ship, the Astrolabe, commanded by Captain Jules D’Urville. They profess to be in search of objects of natural history. They arrived soon after the Fly sailed to form the two settlements. The Astrolabe had visited each, and it was for some time believed here that the French had been before us and left some persons at each place for the purpose of establishing settlements. Whilst I was writing the foregoing, Captain Dundas called, having just arrived from Parramatta. He accompanied the Archdeacon in his carriage thither yesterday, dined and stayed for the night with him at the cottage, and returned in his own boat?

It is now nine o’clock. James and Emmeline left us at 7 and are now I trust safe at home. Your dear father is gone to bed not in good spirits. I asked him whether he should write. His reply was, “I am not in spirits to write and I know not what to say." He is suffering again from one of those fits of despondency, which are sure to succeed extraordinary exertion and over-excitement. We have looked for it, and the sudden depression in the value of our produce, the gloomy accounts of the state of things in England and the perplexed state of affairs here, have united to depress his spirits. I am far otherwise unhappy than to see that he is in such a state of suffering ever since before the Bannisters’ departure, and indeed for some weeks previous he became low and unwell. I trust a change will soon take place, again for the better. He is relieved certainly since he came here, and was well enough to dine at Government House on Wednesday last, where the Governor and everyone was very attentive as he told me. Our concerns as usual are proceeding quietly, thanks be to God, and I believe as prosperously as may reasonably be expected. James wrote in great haste and told me he had not read over his letter. He sealed it and despatched it to Mr. Bunn to put on board the Regalia, for fear she may sail early in the morning. Mr. Bowman is writing at some length to Mr. Buchanan. He sends the Gazettes and the Monitor. We did not sent any papers by

[Page 542]

this opportunity. Another will soon offer. I hope the Australia will arrive at least before another vessel sails for England. Perhaps she is even now near at hand, as the signal was hoisted at the South Head for a vessel in sight. Oh, that the Australia may appear in the morning. James has been making a little tour into the country in company with Captain Dundas and Lieutenant Grey, son of Lord Grey, and the Archdeacon. They went first to Camden, stayed there a few days, and then proceeded into Argyleshire, and from thence to Bathurst, where letters addressed to Captain Dundas concerning the dangerous state of health of the Commodore, Sir James Brisbane, caused him to leave Bathurst and make a very hasty journey back to Sydney. James came back with Captain Dundas, leaving Mr. Grey to follow at more leisure, and the Archdeacon to complete the objects of his journey. James was highly gratified with these two gentlemen, and they appear to be no less pleased. Sir James Brisbane is quite given over by the faculty. They say he cannot survive much longer. It is a singular circumstance – that he should have survived so long – that he should have come here, and particularly distressing on account of his family. The Warspite and Volage are from India bound to Valparaiso. They have been here I think two months, and since the first week the Commodore has been confined to his bed.

I need not say how much gratified we were at the news of Dear Edward’s promotion. I should have written to him, but I cannot tell how it is that I put off writing to the last minute, expecting every day the Australia. We received everything safe he entrusted to the care of Captain Wright, tell him, and that Major Macpherson is an especial favourite, that he goes to Parramatta and comes here familiarly. He dined here three days ago, and also Captain Smith. I think the 39th will be a favourite regiment here; as to the militia, which dear Edward spoke of, I do not think there is any prospect of its being formed. Your sister Mary, I am glad to say, is quite well, and your nephew

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Edward is a fine infant. The Doctor is also very well. They desire their kindest remembrances.

And now, my beloved son, I shall conclude this scribbling incoherent scrawl, for it ill agrees with my eyes to write by candlelight, and the confused way I am expressing myself in I fear can give you little pleasure or information. I only was anxious to assure you we are all well, and that all our affairs are so likewise. God grant that this may find you in health and also your dear brother. We think of you continually, believe me, ever to remain, my dearest John,
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 544]

General Hospital, Sydney.
Sunday 17th December, 1826

My dearest Edward:

I wrote a most hurried letter to John yesterday and finished and sealed it up last night without being able to read it over, under the impression that the Regalia would sail very early this morning. My letter, together with Mr. Bowman’s packet, was sent to the care of your old acquaintance Bunn to put on board. When we assembled to breakfast a message from Mr. Bunn announced that the vessel would not sail before tomorrow morning. I have therefore determined to scribble a letter to you. The aforesaid Mr. Bunn (he wishes to drop the “Captain" being now an agent for the house of Buckles and Company Buchanan) is to dine here with Captain Langdon, who commands the Hugh Crawford, Mr. Macqueen’s ship. I shall therefore prepare this to give into his charge this evening. Your letters and papers were all safely conveyed to us by Captain Wright. Your [blank space] the lark and everything, two pair of goldfinches, the [blank space]; the larks all died, and the flowers? I think were not embarked. I have seen Captain Wright only once, He has been involved in an unpleasant affair with the officer of the Buffs who was a passenger with him, and consequently under his command. He landed in arrest. A court martial has been sitting some time. First there was a court of enquiry. Altogether it is a very unpleasant affair, and has occupied the time and attention of Captain Wright altogether. Many thanks for your picture. It is an excellent likeness. Macpherson was quite delighted with it. We see the Major frequently. Mr. Bowman is very much pleased with him and solicits to show every attention to him and you know when he takes a liking it is a steady one. He has been several times at Parramatta, is going to Camden when the weather is more temperate. Captain Smith also we see and Mr. Cook and Mr. Innes. Major D’Arcy is stationed at Parramatta. James dined with Major M. on Thursday and with

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your brothers dined at their little mess last week. The Officers of the Volage are on very friendly terms with the 39th, and exchange visits often; you will see by my letter to John, what a display of a fleet we have here, with the man of war, a noble 7ty, is commanded by Commander Commodore Sir James Brisbane, a cousin of Sir Thomas. The poor man is dying, and never will in all human probability assume the command of the Warspite. Himself and his family now occupy appartments in the large house of Mr. Simeon Lord. The Volage is commanded by a son of Lord Melville’s, Captain Dundas, a fine, frank gentlemanly young man; one of the Lieutenants a son of Lord Grey; one of the midshipmen a son of Lord Shaftesbury. These gentlemen have been a good deal with the Archdeacon. Mr. Field (?) is I believe intimate with the family of Earl Grey and there is great attachment between Captain Dundas and Mr. Grey. The latter I should say is very clever, and he is very lively and good humoured.

All this while, my dearest Edward, Edward, I have not congratulated you on your promotion. Let Allow me to do so now. I hope the step gained will lead to future good. We are in the hands of Providence, and I every day see more clearly the evils of being too anxious for the future. If I were to indulge the feeling, I could be in a degree miserable that you are not in the 39th. I think the Regiment will be a favourite with the respectable part of the community at least. The Buffs will soon move on to India. A vessel has been off the Heads two days. The wind is contrary. It is ascertained to be the Woodford last from Hobart Town. Lieut. Merrick (N.B. X) is on board, and has letters for us, as John advises us, by the Speke. The Australia also is daily expected. The Speke made so quick a passage that she has outstripped all these other vessels that sailed long before.

You will perceive that I am still at Sydney. I have been sojourning here two months, and yet I am not permitted to return. The repairs at home were commenced with too

X (N.B. Meyrick is the spelling used in Almanac and Amyt ist Army List. M. F.)

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much vigour, too many workmen employed and too much evident activity bestowed on that which could advance but slowly, and step by step, whilst the family continued to occupy a part of the house. At length, your father saw thehis error discharged the greater part of the workmen, thereby [blank space] in the weekly expenditure and the repairs are still going on, well although slowly. I am told that if I return, your dear father will not proceed. I have lived so long in a ruin of a cottage that I think it best to stay where I am until I have a bedroom finished. You will observe by my letter to John that your dear father has had a severe attack of his old tormenting complaint, with all the customary attendance of despondency and low-spiritedness. He has been at Sydney two or three weeks and is certainly better than when he came. he has had two or three invitations to dine at Government House and on Wednesday last he did dine there with a party of gentlemen, chiefly Majors?. Mrs. Darling, has not seen ladies to dinner since her last confinement – she has evening parties to one of which I was a short time since.

I am thinking whether you will or will (not) see Sir Thomas Brisbane. Nothing can be greater than the contrast between the two – Sir Thomas and General Darling, and quite as great in the ladies. Mrs. Darling is fond of company and parties. Your sister and your young nephew Edward are well. The little man has some teeth and is growing fast. The Doctor is well also and desires his kindest regards. The letter you wrote to him by Dr. C. Cochran? it so happens he never saw. Dr. C. delivered it immediately after the ship came to anchor, Mr. Bowman was then on leave of absence for a month at Hunter’s River. We, knowing who it came from, opened the letter and as usual forwarded it on to Parramatta, from whence it was again forwarded on to Camden, and to make a long tale short, it has never been returned, so that the Doctor has only heard of it. We did not get the packages entrusted to Captain Wright for some days. Your letters were in a case. Captain Wright made many apologies for the unavoidable detention.

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James and Emmeline came to us from Parramatta on Thursday to dinner. Mr. Bowman had invited Captain Dundas and Captain Stirling Mr. Grey (and) the Archdeacon to dinner. The party altogether ten. Yesterday, Emmeline and her James returned to Parramatta. They set out at seven o’clock after we had dined. We thought they would be at home to tea with Mrs. Lucas and Elizabeth. The Archdeacon has hired Woolloomooloo and will remove so soon as the Miss Bannisters leave it. They have at length wisely determined to go to Hobart Town to remain with a [blank space] the Pedders. They have evinced a strong desire to remain here but Mr. and Mrs. Pedder have repeatedly written to them since their brother’s departure, urging that they come to them, and pointing out the impropriety of their present abode. Bannister’s sudden departure and the circumstances connected with it, were to me so unexpected and so sudden that I think of it as of a dream. Poor fellow – he had a thousand amiable qualities, which insensibly wound round the heart. But I apprehend he must be somehow strangely and pitiably entangled in his circumstances by the encumbrance of his late father; leaving his sisters had a strange appearance. Emmeline drinks tea with them on Friday. They never go out, but those who visited them before continue their attentions. Both sisters are dreadfully embittered against the Colony, and against Mr. Forbes. They attribute their brother’s removal to Mr. Forbes, but I however know the sort of letter he wrote to Lord Bathurst, requesting that a successor might be appointed unless his salary was doubled. I should have expected nothing less than that he would be taken at his word, as it proved. He had succeeded in gaining the confidence of the inhabitants, and was universally esteemed and respected. When the Archdeacon removes to Woolloomooloo, we shall have the cottage vacant. Mrs. Lucas has determined on removing to it. The Archdeacon has planted and got the garden in good order, and built stabling and a coach-house, so that the little tenement will be tolerably

[Page 548]

complete for our kind friend’s accommodation, and be a pleasing auxiliary to our home establishment because Mrs. Lucas will have no scruples to lodge single young gentlemen. Your bed has still occupied a room there. The little party of travellers, your brother James accompanied from Camden through Argyleshire and on to Bathurst, paid a visit on their way to your warmhearted friend, MacAlister. They amused themselves in shooting, hunting kangaroo and were most gratified by their tour. The sheep shearing was accomplished very quickly and in good time. The wheat harvest now is drawing to a close also. We have had an extraordinary continuance of severe drought, and high winds. The fires have raged through the country with a terrible violence sorely witnessed and have burned some of the wheat crop and very much of the pasturage. Rain will soon restore the latter at this season of the year, and I believe the loss of grain by fires has not been extensive. Captain Coghill was here Friday and yesterday he returned to Kirkham. I had no opportunity of writing to William by him. James has been very much away from William on the Company’s affairs, our own and one thing and another. George Jenkins is well. Do not be vexed that your father nor any other part of the family, write. There is another ship will sail very soon, and they all wait to receive the letters by the Australia and Woodford. I have let your father know I am writing. He only says, “Poor fellows! What have I of a pleasing nature to write to them about?" This is the disease unquestionably. Colonel Cameron (?) has just called, and Dr. Hamett, surgeon of the Volage. They stayed some time. Your brother and Mr. Bowman had walked to Furniss Garden. They are just returned. It is time to dress for dinner. I therefore subscribe myself, my dear Edward, your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

Mr. Bunn came to dinner, and is gone. I told him I was writing to you. He assured me the Regalia would sail in the morning. We had also Captain Langdon and Mr. Dawson,

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who is here in the Company’s affairs. He looks cheerful and well and gives good account of his proceedings. Your old acquaintances, the Balcombs, are well. Mrs. B., Mrs. Abel and Bessie are staying at Kirkham with Mrs. Oxley. Mr. Oxley is kept close at his office – he complains bitterly. After all, I believe they get through very little business. There is an immensity of letter writing and a great deal of discontent. The wits say this is a “Government of letters."

Once again adieu. My eyes ache.

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Monday morning, December 18, 1826.

My dearest John:

After all my hurry on Saturday, the ship did not sail. Mr. Bunn who dined here yesterday, assured me she will sail this morning about ten o’clock. I enclose a letter for Edward which I wrote yesterday. Having crossed it, I cannot re-peruse it. I have just received a letter from James by one of our servants. The following is an extract:- “Parramatta, Sunday. If the Regalia and your letter be stationary, be good enough to mention to John that Mrs. Lucas has drawn on me for thirty pounds at thirty days’ sight, in favour of Mr. Bowman, and that she has been prevented from writing by the sudden despatch of the ship. She persuaded herself the vessel would not sail before the day advertised in the newspapers. We arrived home safe and without any adventure, found all well, the Archdeacon just gone, being tired of waiting for us. I write a line on business to my father, who I hope continues better. I have a note from William – all well." Mr. Bunn told us that Dr. Winter had sent an immense bunch of papers to you by the Regalia, so bulky that the Captain objected to take them free of cost. Our papers are at Parramatta, or I would have sent them, that you might see the business that is made of the use of the soldiers Sudds and Thompson. The man Sudds who died was a (carpenter.) He had solicited the discharge, and tendered a large sum of money to procure it, which was not allowed. It is said he was a man of unexceptionable character, and after the unhappy affair which involved him, he was literally broken-hearted. You will see it discussed with bitterness in the “Australian" and disputed (dissented?) in the Gazette. I have no doubt it will appear in some of the English papers.

Captain Langdon has sold the merino sheep he imported in the Hugh Crawford to Mr. Jones for eighteen pounds a head. Mr. Dawson says the wool is far inferior to any of ours. Your father took a little walk yesterday round the Government Domain and looked at the shipping in the Cove. He seemed better afterwards. He has slept better to-night. – is not yet risen. The vessel for which a signal has been hoisted two days has not yet entered the Heads. The wind is adverse once again.

I sign myself, your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

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Sydney March 4, 1827.

My dearest Edward:

It was with great joy I received your welcome packet by Charles MacArthur. He and his nephew James walked into the hospital gate just as we sat down to dinner. Mr. Bowman’s horse was at the door on which he was about to take a ride to Parramatta and Mary had suddenly risen from her chair to look out at the dining room window to see who rang the bell when she observed Charles and James MacArthur ascending the steps. You may judge of our pleasure and surprise when I tell you that we had no previous notice of the approach of a ship from England. After mutual greetings and some brief communications, whilst Charles and James took refreshments I hastily read your letters selected what I thought best to forward to Parramatta by Mr. Bowman, who also charged himself with the office of communicating to Hannibal and Maria the arrival of their brother and son, and that they would be at the Vineyard, it was expected, about nine o’clock. After the Doctor’s departure, Charles and James had to repair on board the Indus to collect some things to take with them. Your dear sister Mary and myself quietly then perused the remainder of your letters. Most thankful we were that your communications were of so pleasing a nature, for never did your poor father so much need distraction?. He has for nine months past given way to the most gloomy apprehensions, one of those peculiar and sudden [blank space] which we have before witnessed. This time twelvemonths he was in excellent health and exceeding good spirits. For the past four or five months quite the reverse has been the case. That he suffers excessively and even more than we can well judge is certain, but it is the mind preying upon the body, and disturbing its proper functions. The depressed state of the markets in England and a very dry adverse season here have conspired to feed this melancholy. He is, however, better and I hope and pray he will continue to mend. He spent a month or more here lately to try the benefit of change. I have the pleasure to say that your sisters and brothers are all well. Elizabeth, Emmeline and Mrs. Lucas are at Parramatta, James and William at Camden. I am apprehensive your brothers will not have timely notice to write as we were not apprised of any vessel being to sail for England so soon. I heard from Parramatta yesterday – they said James was expected to come in from Camden and should he arrive he will of course write. I wrote at great length to John and yourself by the Portland

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which conveyed Colonel Balfour and his children and also Captain and Mrs. Lockyer. William’s letters were given to Dr. Nesbitt who went in the Marquis of Huntley in which vessel several doctors took a passage. Your old acquaintance Dr. Turner amongst the rest. They never called on me that I heard of. Both these ships sailed the second week in February. I trust John and yourself will receive all the letters safe. I did not myself write as James had said all there was to be said and as he wrote here I could not add anything of interest to his voluminous despatch, and we had constantly persons calling on one account or another, so that I kept myself disengaged to talk, which occasionally you know Edward I am very fond of. Captain Crotty arrived in the Albion; I believe the same day the Indus sailed. The packet by him was not delivered until a few days after. Captain Smythe had accompanied James to Camden. I was there when Captain Crotty arrived. – since his return he has introduced Captain Crotty to us. Mr. Inglis from Canton has also been on a visit to Camden. This gentleman will be known by name to our friend Davidson. He arrived at Canton shortly after Mr. Davidson quitted it. He is very intelligent and gentlemanly. he dined here on Friday last with the Archdeacon and an officer of the 40th. He seems to like the country very much. This is his second visit. He has a brother who has shares in the Van Diemen’s Land Company. He very much approves of all he sees of the A.A. Company. Mr. Dewitt (Devitt?) is now here and Mr. Henderson. The latter is also busied in searching for coals in the vicinity of Port Jackson having been unsuccessful in finding any in the neighbourhood of Port Stephens. Mr. Henderson showed me yesterday a fine specimen he found at Mr. Blaxland’s estate near Parramatta. He found one also on Mr. [blank space]’s which is above Hewit’s Mill Dam. He says the vein must pass through our land. I wish it may be discovered to do so, as it may render that part of our estate more valuable, near Duck River.

I have yet neglected, my dear Edward, to thank you for your very interesting cheerful journal and the prints which you so judiciously collected are now on a table in the drawing (room) beside me. It is Sunday? we have just had a visit from Mrs. Abel. She generally comes in about once a week and chats with us. I told her I was writing to you. She desired to be remembered. Her father has been confined by gout to the house for some weeks. Her mother and brothers are well. Mr. Bowman has just walked to see Mrs. Abel home. I fear Mr. Balcombe has entangled

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himself in debt. This is merely conjecture. She has been amusing Mary and I with an account of two or three parties she has been at this week. – one at Mrs. Jones’ – a ball and supper. A strange mixture of finery, ostentation and vulgarity – according to her account. We have another King’s ship arrived from Trincomalee, the Rainbow commanded by the Hon. Captain Rouse (sic), a very old acquaintance of the Balcombes. I have not seen him yet. Mrs. Abel says he is exceedingly good humoured and I fancy joins with her in laughing at affectations. The Governor and all the family have been at Parramatta since Friday week. They will return to Sydney some time in the ensuing week. As I shall hear from Parramatta again before I close this letter I shall only now say that your father received Charles with great amiability. He has been several times at our house and equally well received. Your father’s feelings were much interested for Charles on account of the ill usage he had received from the master of the Cumberland by leaving him and James behind. The Cumberland arrived about a fortnight before Charles. The whole family party directly went to the Vineyard. Maria had only been a few weeks confined of a son (the 8th child) when they arrived. She bore the great accession to her family and her own disappointment very well. Mrs. King had but just quietly settled when she was brought to bed of a seventh son, so that when Charles and James arrived you may imagine the Vineyard cottage was well peopled. They must be as thick as hops. Mrs. King has seen my dear aged parent and gives a most flattering account of her good appearance and astonishing cheerfulness and activity – this to me is a great consolation. Dear Edward, I picture to myself your great consternation when you received intelligence of the intention of your father to return to England. My dear John, I trust it may not disturb you – these sudden changes and resolves – we none of us liked the thought and were exceedingly pleased when he abandoned the idea. It made a great talk and clatter here for a time. You perceive I still write from Sydney. It is not yet convenient to me to return home. The repairs which were commenced with so much vigour could not proceed with a velocity corresponding to your father’s wishes. He then began to tire and would stop the same and come here, stay a few weeks and return to expedite the work. It is proceeding, and I have prospect of being enabled to return with some degree of comfort soon. Mary took the opportunity of going to Parramatta with her little Edward

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whilst your father was staying here, so that the sisters and Mrs. Lucas and the young heir had the house to themselves. Mary stayed nearly a month, coming here to see us once in the time and staying a night. She gives a very good account of what the old habitation will be when the projected additions are complete, and these are in a state of forwardness so that I hope they will proceed, however slowly. The Archdeacon has quitted the cottage and now resides at Wooloomooloo. We took the furniture which the Bannisters left at their own valuation (which by the way was high enough.) They took some things with them to Hobart Town, sufficient to furnish a small cottage. I have had a few lines from Miss Bannister since they arrived at Hobart Town. They declined residing with Mr. and Mrs. Pedder but the cottage taken for them joins Mr. Pedder’s garden. Poor Bannister – I profess I understand him not – nor how he has involved himself in embarrassments I fear of a very serious nature, I mean in a pecuniary sense. I wish for his sake and his sisters it may not be so. When he was in the midst of his correspondence with the Governor and expecting to hear of a successor being appointed at home, he made proposals for your sister Emmeline to your father by letter who very firmly in a reply stated to Mr. B. his reasons for declining them, in which reasons Mr. B. in another letter, fully acquiesced. Your father was very much vexed. He consulted me – in fact we were all of one opinion. Mr. B. and Emmeline had never been thrown into each other’s company nor could we discover the least partiality other than that of a very general nature. We none of us dropped the least hint to her, not thinking it necessary as Mr. Bannister was so soon to quit the country. Circumstances occurred which averted more vexatious feelings between the Governor and Mr. B., and he suddenly determined to go by the first ship, which happened to be bound for Canton, leaving his sisters behind. Mr. and Mrs. Pedder, (as soon as they were apprised of the situation) wrote to them in the strongest terms to come to them as being the only proper place for them to be. Both sisters seemed very unwilling to remove to Hobart Town, and Miss B. made an appeal to your father for protection, which distressed him very much. She said she wished to hire a cottage at Parramatta and that her sister Harriet would go to the Pedders. I gave no encouragement to a scheme which appeared to me so odd and even imprudent, and I really was very glad when they accepted of Mr. and Mrs.

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Pedders’ proposal. I cannot understand these very eccentric people. I should rejoice to hear that Bannister has extricated himself from his difficulties for his own sake as well as his sisters’. He had risen in the estimation of the people generally in this place, his manners being conciliatory and his morals without stain or even the imputation of any. Many things have happened which Mr. Bannister predicted and the Governor seems to be in difficulties very often.

Mr. Dawson I think writes to the Directors. At all events a box will be forwarded and the newspapers in it. John and you will feel interested in looking them over. You perceive the “Australian" is most abusive to the Governor. They seem to be pretty quiet about the Company. The papers will show of the seizure of a vessel by 60 persons who were in her sentenced to the penal settlement Norfolk Island, of her reception on arriving at New Zealand by the (natives?) A great number of those unhappy persons are now under sentence of death.

March 6th

Charles MacArthur has just brought a note to me from your father and one from Elizabeth. He says “his rash is looking much better" but he complains to me and indeed the weather is so adverse that he will not be much better until we have a favourable change. Charles tells me he went to Camden from Westwood on Friday last, saw James and William well. The latter has been busy with his vintage. You will hear of the fame of the Camden grapes from the Lockyers and Colonel Balfour should you see them. I think William expects to make about 140 gallons of wine. He sent some fine grapes to Government House the week before last. They were much admired and praised.

James and William know not of the sailing of this vessel and your father cannot make an effort to write. The Australia began to take in wool to-day. Mr. Bowman was embarked. He himself sailed for Newcastle to-day and proceeds to visit his farm, having obtained from the Government three weeks’ leave of absence. He went in the Lord Liverpool packet (not the one you sailed in from London to Ostend) taking with him Mr. Henderson who goes to Newcastle to examine the coalmines. Mr. Dawson remains here a few days longer. He writes and sends a box to the Directors by this opportunity and intends returning to Port Stephens in a small vessel which has been purchased for the Company from the Commander of the New Zealand Company’s ships, Captain Hood. They have been obliged to relinquish the undertaking altogether not having been enabled from the hostility of the

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natives to establish themselves in any part of the island. The Wesleyan missionaries also have been obliged to fly from these New Zealand cannibals. Several families came to Port Jackson with Captain Hood. Mr. Marsden intends making another trip to try the effects of his presence amongst these savage warriors. There is still some families of the Church Missionary Society remaining in New Zealand – they consider themselves in a very perilous situation. Captain Rouse (sic) of His Majesty’s Ship Rainbow has offered to convey Mr. Marsden to New Zealand, which offer is accepted. Mr. Marsden is now in Sydney and will make his arrangements for going before he returns to Parramatta. Mr. Bowman proposes to visit the Australian Agricultural Company’s establishment at Port Stephens before he returns to Sydney. I should very much like to go there myself. I have heard so favourable a description of it and from two views taken by the surveyor, Mr. Armstrong, which are intended to be sent to the Directors, I should think I have not heard it commended more than it deserves. George Jenkins goes to Port Stephens with Mr. Dawson. He has been waiting at the office in Sydney for this last fortnight. Mr. Dawson is very partial to George and I think he will do much better at Port Stephens than at Camden.

This my dear sons you will say is a proper old woman’s gossipy letter. When I take up my pen I know not when to have done when addressing those that are dear to me. The misfortune is that I fear I neglect to notice the things which it would be most acceptable to you to hear and bore you with a repetition of uninteresting matter.

It is now evening. Your sister Mary, her little son Edward and myself all are sole occupants of this large house. Charles takes up his abode at Mr. Icely’s. As it is late I shall bid you good night and add a line in the morning as I hear the vessel does not sail before 12 o’clock.

March 7.

The Archdeacon has gone to Parramatta this evening. He set off from Wooloomooloo before six o’clock and I was too late in despatching a letter I had written to you by him to your father. He will breakfast at our house and probably dine also so that he will have a little chat with the family at home. William Campbell of Harrington Park departed this life last week. He has caused your father a great deal of trouble and all of us much anxiety to say nothing of the expense the vexatious chancery suit has occasioned. Poor misguided man – he has no benefit himself and the grave has now closed on all.

P.T.O

[Page 557]

I hear that the vessel is off and therefore I hastily subscribe myself, my dearest sons,
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

Mary sends her affectionate love.

[Page 558]

(March 7 1827)

My dearest John:

I have this moment closed a letter addressed to you although within is more immediately to your brother Edward. It was intended to be put into the Company’s despatch, but Mr. Dawson has written to me to say “the box is closed and sent off." I scarcely know to whom my letter will be entrusted. I request the assistant surgeon here to give it to the Captain or someone he knows. Mr. Campbell, the owner, lives a considerable distance from the General Hospital. Dr. Bowman sailed yesterday for Newcastle and Hunter’s River. He is going to visit his farming establishment there, and will visit Port Stephens before he returns. His wool was put on board the “Australia" before he went, ours is at Parramatta I believe the whole ready for embarkation.

You will receive no letters from any of the family but myself by this opportunity, which was not known but a few days since, and neither James nor William can have been apprised of it. I have the pleasure to say we are all in good health, only that your father is suffering from one of those periodical attacks of nervous depression & flying (trying?) gent gout. Charles came from Parramatta yesterday, and said his uncle was looking much better. He was at Camden on Thursday (friday) last, and saw James and William quite well, the latter in the midst of his vintage. I think he makes this season 140 gallons of wine.

The Archdeacon is gone to Parramatta this morning, and will breakfast at our house. He is writing by the Queen Charlotte, the first country-built vessel which has ever sailed for the parent country. She is freighted by the elder Mr. Campbell. I am just told I shall be in time to send this to Mr. Campbell. The vessel is anchored off the Battery. My other letter, containing two sheets of paper, is given to Captain Moore, the commander. I trust this will find you and dear Edward well. I think of you continually,

[Page 559]

and shall be very glad to hear your tour on the Continent has terminated pleasingly.

We have had the most surprising continuance of dry weather, no rain of any consequence having fallen for many months. Notwithstanding the sheep continue to do well. All our young flocks and dry sheep as they are termed have been detached into Argyleshire, leaving only the breeding flocks at Camden. Thousands of acres of grass have been destroyed by fire, so that the country wears a melancholy aspect. At present, 24 hours’ rain would cause an immediate change at this season, and would clothe our parched land with verdure.

I believe Mr. Dawson has sent the colonial newspapers by this conveyance. You will therefore have an opportunity of seeing them if you have a curiosity to do so. The Governor is not spared by the “Australian" and Howe’s fulsomeness is as obnoxious as the abuse of the other. Mr. W. Campbell, the applicant in the Chancery suit died last week. I know not how his affairs are left, in the hands of Mr Dawson (Dixon?) I suppose. What is his nephew doing? Pray remember me most kindly to Walter Davidson. I read Edward’s letters respecting him with heartfelt satisfaction. I seldom see Mr Jones. He has lately had a severe illness and retired for some time with his family to Bayly Park, which estate he has purchased. They are now returned. I am sorry to say Mr. Oxley has been for some time in very bad health, occasioned by a too close application to business, and perhaps the consequence of former long journeys. Mr. Bowman attended him. For some weeks he became better, and is now keeping quiet a little time at Kirkham. I see by a letter from William to Em that James had driven over for Mr. Oxley and brought him to see the wine pressing, which William said astonished him very much. He remained until six o’clock in the evening, a proof he was much recovered.

[Page 560]

I think you will receive favorable accounts of the state of the Company’s affairs. The sheep and all the stock are doing well. The views of the Establishment which I mentioned in my other letter cannot I fear have been sent, as they were taken to Parramatta to show your father, and have not been returned that I am aware.

Edward writes that Genl. Foveaux never fails in his enquiries for us. Pray let him be told that we speak of him very often. He would not recognise Sydney now, it is such an altered place full of strange faces. It is a place of wonderful resort. Sometimes we have three or four ships arriving on the same day from various quarters of the world. His Majesty’s Ship Rainbow, commanded by the Honorable [dash] Rouse, has offered to convey Mr. Marsden to New Zealand, and I believe he accepts the offer, and will go in a day or two. I do not recollect whether the death of poor Mrs. Campbell, the sister of Captain P. Campbell, has been mentioned. She went off after a short illness at their residence near Prospect Hill.

You will be surprised to learn that I have not seen what is doing at Parramatta. Your father commenced too vigorously. I am kept away because there is no bedroom finished which I could occupy with any comfort. The alterations are however proceeding. All the family come here occasionally to visit me. Your father was here for a month a short time since. Mary and I are going to persuade him to try the change of air again in Mr. Bowman’s absence. There is a very worthy man at Parramatta that has charge of the hospital there, Dr. Anderson, R.N. He visits your father daily, and quite understands the nature of his complaints.

Mary unites with me in love and very affectionate wish[es] to yourself and Edward, My own John,
Your ever affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 561]

Sydney,
Sunday, March 25, 1827.

My beloved Sons:

I avail myself of the sailing of the Magnet for England to write a few lines to you, as I am assured you have the same solicitude to hear frequently from us that we shall constantly feel to have intelligence from you. Although I know James will write by this conveyance, yet I cannot forbear sending you a little scribble of my own. You will perceive I still write from Sydney. Your dear sister Mary, her little boy and myself are the sole inmates of the house at present, Mr. Bowman having been absent nearly three weeks at Hunter’s River. We do not expect his return before the first week in April. I have the pleasure to say we are all well your father very much better than when I last wrote and therefore I include him in the well. He is at Parramatta, and begins to interest himself a little in the building again. James has been a good deal at Sydney in the last week or two and William, who is now at Camden, had the pleasure of his company three days last week. He came rather unwillingly as a witness in the trial of Breadbears (Broadbears), unwillingly because he was very busy and very usefully employed at Camden, and his testimony could be of no avail in the case. Since my last letter by the Queen Charlotte, we have been favoured with refreshing rain, which has given a spring to vegetation, and brought a supply of young grass for the ewes and lambs.

A letter from William written on Thursday gives a very satisfactory account of everything at Camden. He says “the grass is growing rapidly, and the lambing has commenced very favourably." He sent some bulbs from his garden for Mrs. Marley which show us he is busy amidst his plants and from the cheerful tenor of his letter, we may conclude he is happy in having returned to his usual occupations again, where I trust his brother will soon be enabled to rejoin him.

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James has been detained at Sydney chiefly in consequence of the action instituted by Broadbear and wife (late servants of the Female Orphan Institution) against the Parramatta bench of magistrates. This has been made quite a party and political business and the prosecution a vehicle for most unqualified and indecent abuse of the Archdeacon and his friends. As James will mention this affair much more to the purpose than I can, I shall take no further notice than merely to say I believe the Governor is exceedingly annoyed about it. The “Australian" has lavished so much abuse against the Government and made so free with the name of Colonel Dumaresq that the latter called Dr. Wardell out on Monday last. I presume the breach in that quarter cannot be repaired. So much the better; had there never been an intimacy between them, it might have been better still. The report now in circulation is that Colonel D. is going to England very soon. The Governor continues to devote himself with persevering assiduity to business. Whether he does not encumber himself with over-many minute details is a question but it is only fair to admit it is well meant – the only recreation he likes (or takes?) is in journeying to and from Parramatta, generally once and sometimes twice a week. When there he is occupied with his papers and seems never to move from the house, so that all the exercise he allows himself is the journey, which he performs in a chariot. Mrs. Darling says his health suffers. She told me this in a little airing she took with me in the barouche, the week before last.

Whilst I was writing the above, the Archdeacon called to enquire when I expected James to return, whether tomorrow morning or evening. He preached at the Church of St. Philip’s this morning, and is returning to the afternoon service at three o’clock. St. James’ Church is the one we attend, it being nearer and the church more commodious. Our friend is very low and dispirited.

I endeavour to soothe his irritated feelings yet I am very

[Page 563]

sensible that he has been very ill-used and I believe through the manoevring of Mr. Forbes. Former letters will have apprised you of the Archdeacon residing now near Sydney. Mr. Bowman proposes visiting the Company’s establishment at Port Stephens before he returns. Young Mr. Dawson came from thence a day or two since in the cutter “Lambton," and reports all to be well. His uncle had returned from Sydney before he left Port Stephens, The Australia is preparing for sea. Her late respectable commander, poor Captain Wilson, is dead; a person of very good character was just at the time disengaged, and Mr. Scott lost no time in putting him in charge of the vessel.

Our wool is not embarked. it is all ready and lodged at Parramatta. We shall anxiously expect your next letter, My dear John and Edward. I address this to both of you. Emmeline promised she would write. I cannot persuade Elizabeth, I have urged her in vain to write to Mrs. Plummer. Perhaps she will by the Australia.

in my last by the Queen Charlotte I thanked you, my dear Edward, for your most welcome letters by Charles MacArthur. Your journal, the prints and all your details which were so very acceptable. Mr. Atkinson, who arrived in the Cumberland (where Charles ought to have been) delivered a clock to your father. I think this was omitted to be acknowledged before.

Charles is now returned into Argyleshire and has taken Mr. Francis MacArthur with him. James is placed at school with the Reverend Mr. Wilkinson, who resides in Parramatta. Mrs. Wilkinson is a sister of Mrs. Wilton who is expected. The Wilkinsons, who are very respectable, are quite delighted at the prospect of having their friends here. It is to be hoped they will like their situation in the Orphan School. I would that respectable persons had been in charge of it when the Archdeacon arrived. What vexation and trouble would have been spared – That worthless man Walker, who was, it s

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seems a Jew, and who is lately expelled from the Wesleyan Society in which he was a Minister, has insulted the Archdeacon so grossly that I fear he will leave us. This indeed we shall regret. He possesses so many amiable qualities, his clergy have become very much attached to him, even those who viewed his coming with a jealous eye. Mr. Marsden has gone to New Zealand in the Rainbow, a frigate commanded by the Honorable [dash] Rouse (sic). From the hostility displayed by the New Zealanders, the Company fitted out for that settlement have thought it prudent to relinquish the scheme. The ships and the artisans have come here, and many of the missionaries’ families left the islands and come to Sydney in the Rosanna with Capt. Herd. Mr. Marsden has gone forth to enquire into the causes of these hostilities, and to see how these gentlemen are circumstanced of the Church Missionary Society who have braved dangers and remained. Edward, you will remember Otahiti Tom. He has lately been here with his New Zealand wife and son looking very well. They have been paying a visit to Taheiti and were on their return to New Zealand and seemed very

[The remainder of this letter appears to be missing.]

[Page 565]

Parramatta, May 31, 1828.

My dearest Edward:

As William is writing to your brother James, I have sat down to address a few lines to you. Not that I think it of any importance to which of my dear sons I address myself, but I feel I can write very familiarly and with a chance of being better understood by those I have latest had the happiness of seeing. I had written a letter for the Albion to dear James, but the ship sailed quite unexpectedly and thereby disappointed many. Dr. Douglass with his family took his departure on her, which is the reason, people say, of the mystery. As William has written all that is to be told I apprehend of consequence, I shall confine my communications to the domestic circle. In the first place, I hope and pray this may find you, our dear John and beloved James well. I trust your meeting had been what we could have wished. And not to dwell upon this tender subject I shall tell you that your three sisters and William are now at Parramatta together with young Edward MacArthur, no inconsiderable personage amongst us, I assure you. He really is a very fine boy, and just now is at a very engaging age. Mary has been staying with us ever since the Birthday about five weeks since. Your father at the same time returned again to Port Stephens. How long it will be necessary he should remain there I know not. I had a short letter from him last evening. He seems to be in very good health and writes in cheerful spirits. His letters to me I am deterred from putting up on account of the enormous charge of postage. I have heard John has had to pay at various times. I should really be very glad to know whether letters put up as papers cannot go in a box (to the Company’s office for instance) without the risk of incurring a great expense. Dear William has just read me what he has written. His letter comprises almost everything there is to notice, and the recent death of our old friend has caused such a shadow of sadness to pass over our domestic circle that I can scarcely muster up anything worth writing. Elizabeth and Mary are now walking

[Page 566]

out. The former is, as you may suppose, low, but she is endeavouring to exert herself. Emmeline has a cold, which makes stooping painful, or I would resign the pen to her. Our kind friend Mrs. Lucas is quite well, and in full activity to-day, it being Saturday. She sleeps at the cottage, which is really a very neat little abode and never does she fail to notice the plantation of maize at the gate by the little bridge when we walk that way together. There is a Pine and an Oak on each side the little wicket beginning to be very conspicuous. We have got the pond on this side of our garden finished. It is half full of water, and although at present a little muddy, we expect it to be clear and pellucid when rain comes. We have some native cypresses and the willows around this pond which are very appropriate and look well. In the garden we have also a handsome piece of water and if we are favoured with rain our garden we hope will be very productive of good things soon. The corn you had the kindness to send us, collected in your last tour has ripened very successfully. We think it will be a great acquisition as it perfects itself in so much less time than the maize in general does. Most of the seeds have also succeeded. The pease are not yet ripened. When they do you shall be told if they are good. Elizabeth interests herself about the garden, but really we have had such a succession of untoward seasons that she has almost given it up. She has a fine collection of bulbs from the Cape; in addition to those you brought the Archdeacon had a great variety which he had planted at the cottage. Some of them still remain there, and a great portion have been removed into our garden. Amongst these is the celebrated amaryllis Josephine. It bloomed last season in great perfection together with many others equally beautiful and extraordinary. All our friends at the Vineyard are well. Maria is in much better health than she has enjoyed for many years. She may be expected to add to their family a young son or daughter in the course of a few weeks. They are

[Page 567]

already eight in number. Mrs. Lethbridge, Maria’s sister, had the misfortune to lose her infant this week. Our carriage conveyed the remains of the little creature yesterday to the burial ground at Parramatta. It was just five months old and had from its birth been very delicate. The Marsdens are all well. Mrs. M. and one of her daughters spent the day here very lately. Charles Marsden is soon to be married to Miss E. Brabyn. The young couple are to reside at the farm on the South Creek. Mrs. M. does not seem quite satisfied with the match. Mr. Marsden laughs, and I conclude dislikes it not. Charles is a genteel-looking young man, and has conducted himself very quietly and respectably. I shall be very glad if Mrs. Marsden may be found to have a claim to the estate of Sir Cloudesley Shovel.

We are in daily expectation of arrivals from England. God grant us good news from dear dear John and your no less dear self. It seems very long since we heard of you, hoping as we all most fervently do that your dear brother James has safely arrived, the ample details he will have given to you leaves only very little for us to say. I shall therefore only add our united and most affectionate love to you all and kind remembrance to our mutual friends, from, my dearest Edward,
Your ever affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur

P.S. The Governor has noticed the death of Mr. Oxley in a very handsome manner in a General Order. Hannibal and William returned here on Thursday evening from attending the funeral, which took place at Sydney on Wednesday. Camden was the last place poor Oxley visited, poor fellow. On his death bed he admitted that God had given him an understanding and talents which now he could only lament he had not made better use of. he was resigned and in peace with the world, and I trust his errors will be forgiven by the Almighty and forgotten by his acquaintance and only remembered as a [blank space]. William will

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miss him for a long time. To him in particular he was an amiable friend. James had sometimes business to transact which perhaps might occasionally cause asperities. He will be quite prepared to hear of the event as his case was pronounced to be a hopeless one for some time past.

Saturday 2 o’clock.

We are just told the Lion sailed this morning. Should it be so I shall be very much vexed and so will William. He has folded up his letter and left me, saying he would cross over to the Vineyard as he wanted to speak to Dr. Cunningham, who is there on a visit. I shall however send the letters to Sydney enclosed to Mr. Bowman by the evening coach in hopes they will be in time.

[Page 569]

Camden, December 21 (27), 1830.

My beloved Edward:

I know it will give you pleasure, additional I should have said, to receive a letter from me written from hence. I have been staying here with William and Frederick Thompson nearly two weeks, and I expect it will be two or three weeks more before I shall make up my mind to return to Parramatta, so well am I pleased with my sojourn here, and so much has my health been benefitted by the change. I cannot tell you how delighted I have been with the wonderful improvement I daily discover not in a fine house, mind, for the same little cottage is still all the residence, neatly kept; but it is the solid improvements I see in every part of the estate I have as yet visited, such as will be infinitely more striking and improving to the eyes of a stranger some years hence than now – but to me they are so apparent wheresoever I bend my steps that I cannot but feel astonished at the persevering industry of your brother William, who has so beneficially devoted his time and been so successful in planting and propagating to a very great extent, trees, plants and flowers from almost every part of the world. It would delight you to observe the care he has taken of everything introduced by yourself, and such I assure you make no inconsiderable figure in the garden and plantations, and it is with sweet recollections as we pass each tree or flower of yours that we converse of you, of John and the other dear absentee, now we conclude on his voyage of return. We had flattered ourselves that you, dear Edward, would have accompanied your brother, and it is with reluctance that we forego this hope, but I forebear to enlarge on this topic at present, and shall only add that we should have rejoiced to have welcomed you home again.

I write this to you by Dr. Cooke, who is known to you. he paid us a visit here last week, together with Mr. Bowman and a Dr. Roberts. They stayed two nights and seemed very well pleased. The weather was warm, and William very busy with sheep shearing and harvesting. The former operation has been protracted to an unusually late period on account of a succession of rainy weather, by which the river is kept at a height which prevented the sheep from being washed. The last fortnight has been propitious and I believe this day finishes the shearing of the grown sheep. Tomorrow the

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shearers commence with the lambs. You will be glad to learn that William is pleased with Mr. Koltz. His abilities as a wool-sorter will be applied to a good portion of the wool of the present year. Fifty bales or more were packed before his arrival. These of course will not be meddled with. Mr. Koltz is very unobtrusive and modest. He seems very much pleased with the wool and very much surprised at its uniform good character. Indeed, Edward, you would not be a little surprised to see the wool just now – every bin full up to the beams with fleeces even to crowding, all evenly and neatly piled and covered with cloths to prevent dust from soiling its present purity of appearance. There is a very manifest improvement in the wool, which you would not fail to discover. This is a source of solid satisfaction to us all, for which and for many other blessings my heart dilates with thanksfulness to Almighty God, the Giver of all Good.

I am not aware whether any part of the family will write to you by Dr. Cooke, but myself. Your father writes to John by the same ship about the insurance for the wool. I heard from Parramatta on Friday last that the dear circle there was well, excepting that your father was low and complaining. Frederick Thompson is now at Parramatta. He went there last Wednesday. By communication from Mary, I find he was at Sydney on Friday. Most likely he will return here this evening or tomorrow. He is quite well, and but lately returned from Argyle, where he was staying with your friend Strathaird and a week or two with Hannibal and Maria at their residence at Arthursleigh, near the Wollondilly. You could not expect that Maria would undertake such a journey, I believe one great inducement was my being here. She stayed a week on her way, being greatly detained by rain. The party consisted of Hannibal, Maria, James (who is becoming a fine young man) Charles, George and the infant Arthur and nurse. We made it out very well, were very merry, the cottage pretty full, as you may guess. I expect the return of the party next Tuesday. I have head [had] several letters from Maria, expressing much pleasure in everything around here. Since my stay here, we have had several visitors. Of the number, Walter Davidson’s relative, Mr. Walter Mathieson, and his Canton friend, Mr. Dent. Both William and myself were glad to show them all the civilities we could, and they both promised to come again. We have had also the Brigade Major, Colonel Snodgrass, well known in Peninsular history, and Mr. Cotton

[Page 571]

the Collector of Customs, and we expect a visit from your old friend, Colonel Lindsay accompanied by Captain Forbes of the 39th. They had been making a little tour, and by some mishap, they lost their way, got benighted. It poured with rain and the poor Colonel had to sit in the Bush all night under the shelter of his umbrella, wet and comfortless – in the morning they made their way to the abode of the young Mr. Macleays, where they refreshed themselves to return to Sydney. A propos, these young Macleays are very agreeable neighbours to William. They come here frequently, having been well educated and really are well conducted, lively and conversant with the manners of the times. Their society tends to enliven the atmosphere around Camden, where the topics of the day are brought forward in an agreeable manner. From their father’s situation as Colonial Secretary and the correspondence with their sisters they learn early of all English intelligence. One of these sisters is lately married to Captain William Dumaresq, another about twelve months since to Major Innes, which you will remember. Mrs. Colonel Dumaresq has two children. She appears to me to be but little adapted for the life of a settler in New South Wales, gentle and goodnatured, I should think her. I believe the Colonel does not take so high a standard in his estimate of fortune to be acquired here. He has thrown away a great deal of money I believe, and secured very little of comfort. I have run away from the subject of the Macleays. Before I have quite done with it, Mr. George Macleay, the elder of the brothers in this county, and well known to your Friend Major Williams accompanied Captain Sturt, also an acquaintance of yours, on a long tour into the interior. They were absent I believe six weeks, in them discovered rivers, etc. etc. of which you will read in the Gazettes long since. Now the younger brother, James, is going an interesting voyage – the Comet, a King’s ship, sails from hence to Pitcairn Island for the purpose of removing the islanders to Otaheiti. Another vessel goes in company to assist in the removal of these, as yet ignorant and happy young people. Mr. James Macleay and Captain Walpole of the 39th go in the Comet as a little voyage of curiosity and [blank space].

I have not heard whether the patriarch old Adam was alive when the island was visited last. He certainly must be “Christian." The young man “Friday October Christian" must now have reached middle age. I feel more than common interest in these people, considering Bligh’s tyranny as the cause of their very being, or at least of their being in such a situation.

[Page 572]

We have had hitherto a delightful summer, seasonable rains and an abundance of grass. The stock are all in fine condition, but no demand for animal food. The prices are so low that it is a marvel that it pays for taking to market. The harvest promises to be an abundant one and the maize crop is equally promising to be productive. I will not attempt to give any description of the garden, which you saw begun. It is now finished, and in the nicest possible order, enriched with the finest fruit trees and adorned with the choicest flowers. The walks are so well drained and gravelled that you may walk in the garden immediately after very heavy rain without soiling your shoes – something rare in this new country. Mr. MacAlister has not descended from the highland since I have been here at Camden. William had a letter from him a few days since, in which he promises us a visit soon. Poor fellow, he has had a narrow escape in a skirmish with a desperate lot of bushrangers, in which he was wounded, but not severely. One of the mounted police under his command was also wounded, and a constable severely so. The desperadoes were all finally captured, tried at Bathurst and executed. There are a few men out here committing depredations on the most frequented roads in broad and open daylight. Our Government is so feeble and inefficient, you would hardly credit that such things could be done with impunity for any length of time.

I have broken off to say that Frederick Thompson arrived from Parramatta about two o’clock, left all well there, and communicates the pleasing intelligence of the arrival of our friend, Dr. Fairfowl, whom Frederick has seen and who gives most satisfactory accounts of you all. As soon as the Doctor gets release from his charge in the ship he will come to Camden.

We have received two letters from James by two different ships, the latest dated 12th August, wherein he tells us of his having taken his passage in the Sovereign, and of accompanying John to Paris previous to his embarkation to return. Another revolution in France! I can scarcely say I am surprised at it. Spain and Portugal next I think will follow the example. What an eventful life has that of the Duke of Orleans been, him now called to the throne of France. I have read so many of the works of the late Madame de Genlis, that the history of the Orleans family is familiar to me.

And now my dear dear Edward, let me thank you for your kind communications entrusted to Mr. Koltz, for the valuable book, and the pens with one of which I am now writing, whilst the paper which enrolled them lies before

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me with your caution that they should be “carefully wiped." So like yourself. All your gifts prove useful, and indeed this is unusually so. I cannot see to mend a pen, and this has frequently prevented me from writing.

Frederick’s account of your father is that he is still very low, “wonders what takes John to Paris at this agitated time," and more at a loss why James should accompany him. He does not go out, but yet I am convinced it is not bodily ailment. Altogether hypochondric.

We congratulate you on your appointment. Your friend the Marquis certainly has shown you very marked attention. I should think him a kind and good man. In my early days, I have heard the beauty of his mother celebrated – if she was, as I believe – Lady Charlotte Bertie. Did you ever hear the Marquis or his mother, the Dowager Marchioness, mention Lieutenant Forster, whom his Lordship’s Aunt, Mrs. Lisle, took an interest in? This Mr. Forster married a sister of Mrs. Abbotts. He commanded a packet at Falmouth, and was living in great comfort with his family when I last heard of them. I was very sorry to hear so poor an account of the health of Mrs. Davidson. Her brother looks another person since he came to Port Jackson.

Mr. Macqueen retires from Parliament, and goes abroad, I suppose to nurse his funds – a miserable business he has made of his speculations in New South Wales ...

I conclude myself, my dearest Edward, your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 574]

Sydney, May 12, 1832 [See handwritten note at foot of page.]

I am not a little pleased, dearest Edward, that another opportunity offers for my writing to you so speedily. It is now just a week since I addressed you by the ship Asia. I scribbled over four sheets of paper which Mr. Bowman gave in charge of Dr. Martin, R.N., together with his own letters. James as I afterwards found, wrote also. He enclosed his letter to Dr. Mitchell at the General Hospital. This was done to save time, as it was only sent from Parramatta by the evening coach. Mr. Mitchell told me the letter was sent with the request it might be forwarded by the Post. We saw the Asia sailing down the river on Sunday morning, as we sat at the breakfast table and hope she will have a good passage and that you will receive our despatches safe. I wrote to you that I came here on Wednesday the 2nd May purposing to spend a few weeks at Wooloomooloo, William Emmeline and little Edward accompanying me in the carriage. They returned the same evening to Parramatta and on Monday last William returned to Camden. James still remains at home. I have seen no one from there this week.

Mr. Bowman set out on his medical tour of inspection on Tuesday morning and is not returned. He makes Parramatta a sort of rallying point. He had slept there every night as my despatch from thence announced yesterday. As you will have heard of the declining state of health of Mrs. Bourke, you will not be surprised to hear the poor lady paid the debt of nature on Monday evening last at Government House Parramatta. She was interred there on Thursday at nine o’clock in the morning, the heads of the departments and some of the military offices attended the funeral. Some of the gentlemen who attended called at our house, amongst the number Colonel Lindsay, Mr. Marley and Mr. Riddle (Riddel). These took luncheon there, as Elizabeth writes me. Your father had had a long interview with the Governor it seems on this day week. Of this Hannibal informed me. He was here on Monday last. He added that his “uncle was much pleased with the Governor," and that the discussion was on the affairs of the Colony generally, he believed. On these it is to be hoped that your poor father would be rational and calm, but it was an odd time to seek an interview. I fear he is not in a quieter frame of mind yet. I shall be enabled to form a better opinion when Mr. B. returns, which may perhaps be this evening. In the meantime I will hope the best. His health and digestion is remarkably good, never having occasion to take any medicine. Since before I wrote, I have had

N.B. The date of this letter should be May 12, 1832, see footnote to original.

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the pleasure to learn of my dear aged mother from a gentleman who had lately seen her and who bore ample testimony in confirmation of those favourable accounts contained in the letter of Mrs. Kingdon which you had the kindness to enclose to me. This gentleman is a Mr. Boughton, some years settled in estate at Hunter’s River. He returned to Devonshire to arrange some family affairs, came back again to this country in the Sir William Wallace, which vessel arrived this week. Mr. Boughton is a connection of the Kingdon family.

What a wonderfully changed country is this. Ships arriving and departing continually. It has started forward into a degree of importance I had never expected to see it attain. Two or three stage coaches leave Sydney every day, two to Parramatta and one to Liverpool. Our old servant, Wataford [Watsford], drives a stage from Parramatta to Sydney and back again every day in the week, Sundays excepted, when like a good father he makes a rule to accompany his family to Church. Wataford is the most popular coachman we have. His coach is generally crowded with passengers, and by his industry he acquires an ample maintenance for a numerous family.

I mentioned in my last that Maria had a young daughter, making their family consist of eleven children now at home. They are all well, as is Mrs. Copland Lethbridge, and her family. Captain King may be expected I suppose this winter and Mrs. King Senr. Mrs. P. King is anxiously expecting her husband. She lives altogether on their estate at the South Creek.

I see by the Gazette of this morning that some of our cattle have arrived and are occupying a station on the “Murrumbidgee" or between that river and the “Abercrombie." James made this arrangement when he was in Argyle lately. Macdonald, another old servant, has charge of the cattle so detached. Frederick Thompson is well, and well pleased with his farm, MacAlister also.

It may seem unkind in me not to write to our estimable friend, Archdeacon Scott. I cannot commence a letter to him as yet, but pray communicate anything from me that you think it might please him to hear. Say everything that affectionate friendship might dictate.

I am very glad the Davidsons have returned and with health restored. Remember us kindly to them. When will the Pyrmont Estate be decided upon? I had hoped and projected on going to Camden again long before this.

[Page 576]

I have been prevented by various causes, one on account of the little cottage having got into disrepair. It is now new shingled and about being new plaistered and painted, so that I hope to be there ere long. I very much wish to see the garden and mark how it has improved. At Parramatta there is a great change for the better in Aunt Eliza’s garden, as the children call it, even William pays a tribute to your sister’s perseverance and attention to horticulture. Our Portugal laurel has blossomed beautifully this year. We have made a small quantity of olive oil and we have had capers for our boiled mutton. We cannot find out a successful mode of propagating the caper plant. I fear ours is a peculiar variety. The fruit is very good. I wish you could procure any information upon this subject. Jefferson, who writes about the caper, makes no mention how the plants are to be increased, and yet he writes to recommend to his countrymen the culture of the caper, without explaining the method. It is a long-lived plant and very likely difficult to multiply.

Dearest Edward, you need scarcely be told I think how much of our thoughts and conversation you occupy. Dr. Cook dined here on Monday last. It was the first time I had seen him since his arrival. He told me many very pleasing things about you which quite cheered me. By him I shall again be enabled to write. He purposes spending a few days with Mr. Anderson at Parramatta but he is not certain whether he could go to Camden. You will be glad to see Dr. Cook again. He is a gentlemanly and a very feeling man. I hope poor Captain Sturt will arrive safe and with amended health. According to all accounts, he was very much broken down by fatiguing long expeditions and harrassing circumstances which preyed on his mind. It is a little surprise in our Government not to have sent some small vessel round by sea to have examined that part of the Straits where Captain Sturt’s travels down the Murrumbidgee terminated.

Captain Forbes of the 39th is now out on an exploring party accompanied by another officer of the 39th, Mr Maule with twelve of the mounted police. They have been out two months. They have provisions and equipment for four or five if not more. Here is Mr. Bowman returned from his tour. He left Parramatta about three o’clock, left your father and all there pretty well. He tells me James and Emmeline purpose paying us a visit on Monday. He brings a letter from the former to be forwarded with this to you and one to Mr. Hugh Davis. Mr. Mitchell comes to say the Platina will not sail before Tuesday. Therefore as it is dinner time I

[Page 577]

almost, Edward, I bid you good-bye for the present.

Tuesday two o’clock

I resume my pen to say my beloved son, James and Emmeline did pay us a flying visit on Monday. James had a world of commissions for farming concerns and a variety of others for your father. I scarcely spoke to him, for he went into town almost immediately and only returned just to take some refreshment and set out again for home taking Emmeline with him. She had promised her sister to return. Both were well, and arrived home in good time. James engaged Dr. Cook to dine at our house to-day. He will remain at Parramatta some days. On Sunday, Major Macpherson and Dr. Hamilton called. We had a long chat in which you was remembered. They told me that the Colonel had received a letter from Captain Forbes dated April 15. They had then reached what they termed Ultima Thule on the extreme point to which it was believed any civilised man had before arrived. “The party all safe." A very heavy fall of rain. A great many natives around them, very friendly and busied in constructing huts to shelter the white men from the weather. They had passed over some fine country and were now apprised of a stupendous mountainous barrier of overhanging rocks and precipices which nevertheless they hoped to find a pass through to land? when the rains are abated. The natives told them “white men were a long way beyond and by the side of great waters." The direction of the party or at least their route has been about northwest from Sydney. It is now a month since the date of Captain Forbes’ despatch. It is to be hoped they may have discovered rivers or something worthy of the undertaking by this time.

To give you some idea of the increased population of Sydney, Mr. Bowman and Mary paid us a visit to Parramatta the week before I came here. It happened to be market day. They counted 130 wine carts between Sydney and our gate on the road leading to our house at Parramatta. Perhaps a still greater number would come from the interior by the Liverpool Road, besides supplies from the Hunters River by steam vessels and from the Hawkesbury by boats. It is almost incredible the enormous consumption of this place.

If you again meet our old friend of the 46th Regiment, Major Prothero, Captain Grant etc. and tell them what I write, they will be surprised. Pray remember me to them.

Mary says she will write to you by Dr. Cooke; she and Bowman beg their

P.T.O

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affectionate remembrances. I shall be very glad to hear that Mrs. Bennet’s legacy is paid.

I believe I must now finish my letter, as I am expecting Dr. Rutherford to call for it every minute. I do not think I can read over what I have written, dearest Edward. I trust you continue in enjoyment of health. How often does your situation present itself to my mind, and my tears will yet flow for what we have lost. I agree with you he would have had much bitterness to encounter. I humbly hope his spirit is blest.

Ever, my dear Edward, your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

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Parramatta, March 23, 1832.

My beloved Edward:

Accept of a few hastily penned lines. I have procrastinated from day to day, and now the ship is on the eve of departure. Your father and William went to Sydney yesterday, the latter for the express purpose of seeing your old acquaintance, Captain Sturt, before he embarks. Your father has attended a meeting of the Council. I have not myself seen Captain Sturt for a considerable time, as he has been in very bad health. His expeditions into the country have, it is apprehended, materially injured his constitution. I am not certain whether your father would write to you by Captain S. I am pleased to say, however, that he has written to you I think more than once of late. He has been at Camden and is at present in very good health, and in full activity. It is only that we who know him observe the occasional pang that comes across his mind when anything recalls the image of him whom he dearly loved. How often my thoughts dwell on our loss, and on you, my dear Edward. I must not tell, nor will I give way to feelings of sorrow and regret, which can be of no avail. Let me thank you for all your letters and kind communications. I cannot now remember the date of your last. William will I dare say acknowledge it, and also a letter to him from our kind and affectionate friend, Archdeacon Scott, written from Whitfield. I have not yet been able to rally my spirits so as to write to him, but I hope to do so soon. James is in Argyle. He set out with Macalister, who had been a fortnight absent on leave. Frederick Thompson is also in Argyle, making a beginning on his estate. I hope he may be successful. The country is now in great beauty very luxuriant in grass and vegetable productions. Your brother was very much gratified at Camden by the appearance of the garden, the Vineyard and all around.

I am very angered with myself for having delayed writing so long. It is now candlelight, and I know you will hardly be able to make out my scribble. Emmeline is at the same table with me, writing to you also. She is not quite well, but

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nevertheless she writes. Elizabeth and our friend Mrs. Lucas are in the adjoining room chatting with Dr. Anderson and your little nephew and namesake has just been to kiss grandmother and Aunt Emmeline and bid good night. We have heard from the Vineyard this evening. James of that house has had an attack of dysentery He is better. The other members of the family are well, Maria promising soon another addition to it of a son or daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Copland Lethbridge are also well and Mrs. King. Captain King is expected soon, I understand. Will his mother make up her mind to accompany him and if she does will she be pleased with this altered community? It is so much changed and so rapidly changing that I hardly feel myself at home in it. It is literally by keeping at home that I do feel at ease. I have greatly wished to revisit Camden. Something or other has happened to prevent me. I hope to go there before the winter commences. It is from thence that I can write anything readable, and from thence I hope to write to you, my dear Edward and I hope to address Mr. Scott from thence. Tell him that Lowick is here, and preserves his unrivalled skill in preparing a salad, and sending wild duck to table, as well as his orthodox qualifications as parish clerk; a propos Mr. Marsden has preached at Camden two or three times during the past year and so lately as three months since when he was pleased to give the most unqualified appreciation of the [good] order and attentive demeanour of all our servants in the Establishment. Poor Mr. Marsden has since had a severe attack of illness attended with considerable danger. Dr. Anderson has attended him and thinks he will soon be enabled to resume his duties. Mrs. Marsden is in better health, and is more active than she has been for many years. Perhaps you will be surprised when I tell you that I have not seen the new Governor. Mrs. Bourke has been too ill to receive visits. I have not heard that any of the ladies of the Colony have had an interview with either Mrs. or Miss Bourke. Your father thinks the Governor a man of ability.

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I conclude you will see General Darling. I hope he and his family will arrive safe in England. I should be gratified to hear of them. The two Dumaresqs are retired upon their Estate, St. Heliers, in the district of Hunter’s River, with their respective families. Mrs. Colonel Dumaresq is lately confined of a daughter. This is the third child. She and the Colonel paid William a visit at Camden just before their retirement, dined and spent the day at the cottage. Say to our friend Scott that Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cowper have been paying Camden a visit. James was at home as host, and entertainer, when they were there, William being at that time with us here.

God bless you, my dearest Edward, and grant my earnest prayer that this may find you blessed with health and enjoying the society of your kind friends. So prays
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 582]

Saturday May 26, 1832.
From Wolloomulla – what a name!

My dearest Edward:

I believe it is just a fortnight since I commenced a letter to you before. It was not concluded until a day or two after. This letter together with one from James to you and one from Will to Mr. H. Davis were sent by the Platina, in charge of a Dr. Rutherford. This vessel sailed yesterday week. I write now by the Mary, reported to sail for London direct tomorrow. Since my last your letter from Earls Stoke? Park written on Christmas Eve has been received here, and has given us much pleasure. It is just the place I should have wished you to be at that season. Your account of the family is very delightful and highly gratifying to us all.

I have had the pleasure of a visit here from your sister, Elizabeth since my last. She has spent two nights and almost three days. We walked to the Botanic Garden together with Maria and Mr B. (Bowman) I believe we sauntered about three hours or more, looked at many things you had contributed to the collection, and amongst the number, the arbutus which had grown out of my knowledge. It is just now breaking into flower. There had been no plant propagation from it, strange to say. It has been disfigured by repeated and injurious laying of the branches. There is a new garden formed contiguous between the old and Farm Cove which is the boundary of the new. It is laid out after the plan of the Glasgow Botanical Garden of Dr. Hooker, and will be very beautiful. The introductions from Moreton Bay promise to be very ornamental. It assumes already a very tropical character. But as I intend this to be a short letter, I must not let the Botanical Garden run away with my pen. You will have heard of poor Frazer’s death, and that Mr. Allan Cunningham who was many years a collector of plants in this country for Kew Gardens, is applied for from hence to succeed Frazer. I wish he may have the appointment. He is at present unemployed, as I learn from Dr. Cooke who dined here yesterday and told me.

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He should certainly sail in about a week. He has been to Parramatta, and your two brothers have been here, stayed a night and returned.

Your father also has paid us a visit for a day. He took home Elizabeth with him. He is better, dear Edward, but still too restless. I think, however, he will gradually become less visionary.

The sitting of the Council is postponed to the 10th of July. The Governor continues to be much afflicted by the loss of Mrs. Bourke. He still continues at Parramatta. James told me he had an appointment to see him on some business respecting the Magistracy.

And now let me stop to tell you that I am keeping house here for your sister, who with the Doctor and little James have taken flight to Parramatta, proposing to return before it is dark. They set out at half past eight. The infant is left at home. I have been staying here a little more than three weeks and this is the third time I have written to you. I wish you may have patience to decypher my letters. We have intelligence from England as late as the last week in January. I have read Mr. Bowman’s paper and observed upon the death of the unfortunate Colonel Brereton. What an unhappy act, and in what state of feeling must he have been excited.

We have had no proper intelligence from the explorers into the interior under the direction of Captain Forbes of the 39th. If they should discover a river navigable to the sea, it will be of great importance to the country.

Our last accounts from Argyle were that all there are well. I have seen no late letter from Frederick. Hannibal is at present at his estate on the Wollondilly. He is expected to return in about a week. He will see Frederick and MacAlister. If you communicate with T.H.S. soon, tell him I saw Mrs. Charles Cowper this week, and old Mr. Cowper. They came here to visit me. The lady looks pretty well, but says her husband is far otherwise. He had received a short letter from our friend dated in November last from Whitfield. I

[Page 584]

suppose you correspond frequently, particularly as you are so much in the way of getting franks.

I shall look out with some impatience for letters from you next month, when we may calculate you will have received our letters of last October. I must not revert to the feelings under which those were written, but believe my dear Edward that you occupied my thoughts daily, and although I know you have many kind friends and that you need not be more alone than it is your choice to be, yet can I feel that none of those can be what he was whom perhaps we selfishly lament. I hope George continues with you. It is a great comfort to have a domestic to whom we have been accustomed and who is faithful. My letter goes this evening to Mr. George Bunn, your acquaintance of old. He is the agent for the ship Mary, he is a good natured obliging man. He and Mrs. Bunn called here a day or two since. The lady is of the Roman Catholic faith, a very inoffensive person educated in a convent. You say nothing of the good Marquis and his family in your letters. Pray continue to forward to us any little billets you receive, if practicable.

I shall now finish for the present. I may add a line in the even when the travellers return, to give you the latest news from Parramatta. Accept, my dear Edward, of all my prayers for your health and comfort,
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

Pray remember us kindly to Mr. Walter Davidson and Mrs. Davidson.

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Woollahmullah.
30th June, 1832: half past three o’clock.

My beloved Edward:

Your brother William has written a hurried letter to be sent by the London, a ship bound for Liverpool which is to sail tomorrow. He and your sister Elizabeth are at this moment set out for Parramatta. The latter has been staying here since Monday last. I am pleased to say she is much benefitted by the change. William has only been with us two days. Yesterday, Mr. Bowman and dear Mary went to Parramatta to see the dear inmates at Mrs. Lucas’s cottage and to enquire into the state of your poor father. Colonel Lindsay and Major Macpherson went there also. The two latter saw him – you will hear from some one of them what their opinion was. Mr. Bowman does not at present see him because he is denounced as a conspirator, as one who has [blank space] in poisoning him. I trust, my dearest Edward, my former letters will in some degree have prepared you for this calamity. Let us be thankful to the Almighty that a wholesome restraint was placed upon your beloved father before his malady had induced him to acts of greater violence. My feelings at this moment will not allow of my entering into details. Of me he has made the most fearful accusations, your sisters ordered peremptorily to quit the house. Still, be not alarmed – his fine mind may yet right itself. He is in the house attended by John Moore, our old faithful servant in conjunction with two or three others who attend to his personal comforts in every respect and administer to his wishes ...

(Pp. 3 and 4, not being crossed, do not need to be copied.)

(Continuation, p. 5)

... with a thousand thanks for our bounty and kindness. She has intelligence of a legacy to a considerable amount being left her which is locked up in the Court of Chancery. I mention all this because the poor creature has been under our protection a great many years, and being known to our friend

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Scott who was intimately acquainted with the family of the Clives, to whom she was a servant some years before she was sent to this Colony under sentence of 7 years. This has been long expired. You might accidentally hear of such a person, and would naturally wonder that no mention was made of her departure from the country by our furtherance. She is furnished with no letter to you and has no claims.

I trust my dear Edward you will receive the painful part of the intelligence our letters now convey, with that fortitude which is benefitting a Christian. We must bear it, and I pray that we may be enabled all to do our duty. Dear Mary and Mr. Bowman who is most affectionate, together with their three boys are well, and join in most affectionate remembrances to you.

Believe me to be, my dearest Edward, your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

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Wooloomulla.
Friday 2 November, 1832.

My beloved son:

Again another ship, the Waterloo, for which Messrs. Aspinall and Brown are the agents, is promised to be on the eve of departure for England. I hope she will not be so faithless as was the Rebecca, the last ship by which we wrote. She held out promises of sailing five or six weeks and will have occasioned you a great expense of postage if you receive all the letters safe that we have written, week after week and sent to the post office. This vessel finally sailed the 4th or 5th of last month. Since then we have had the pleasure to receive your letters by the Planter and the box of books entrusted to Dr. Fairfowl have also come to hand. As James will have explained how the mistake originated I shall say nothing more on the subject. I feel that I have very little to tell you worth committing to paper unless indeed it were by a penny post. One great and overpowering cause seems to enervate my faculties. I try to resist the influence, but there are times when I cannot rouse myself. I need not explain to you that it is the state of your poor father and perceiving myself and your sisters driven from our home. Although we have a most kind and affectionate one here with dear Mary and Bowman, yet still your father maintains his hostile feeling towards us. Notwithstanding, he is generally though more rational than he was. I will not dwell upon this subject, but endeavour to turn to something else.

Your letters, dearest Edward, are very gratifying to us. It is a great source of our enjoyment to think you are so respectably and so pleasingly situated. The account of your trip to Brighton was very acceptable. The little notes you send us come very secure with the Reviews or pamphlets on which there is but a trifling charge. Since I last wrote I have seen Captain King. He is looking remarkably well. I think he does not appear to me to be well pleased with the country, but I had not much conversation with him. Mrs. King has not visited Sydney since her arrival, consequently I have not seen her. She has

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been spending a week at the South Creek and visited Dr. Harris. Whilst there the Doctor paid me a visit here a few days since, and told me he had heard of you with great pleasure, from the Kings and from Mr. Bunn (who is very civil and most obliging to me). Dr. Harris makes Mr. Bowman’s his headquarters in Sydney, where also paymaster (that was) Mr. Murray resides, with his daughter and son-in-law. Harris and Murray have for many years been great friends.

And now let me just notice that we occasionally see some of our old 39th friends – those that are left were a detachment. Captain Smythe and Major Crotty speak of you with pleasure. Poor Barker’s servant is hired at Camden and also a servant of Dr. Hamilton. I have a narrative containing an account of poor Captain Barker’s death which shall be sent to you by Dr. Fairfowl. Colonel Lindsay caused a tablet to be erected to his memory which is placed in St. James’s Church. The officers of the 39th subscribed, and I requested of the Colonel that your name might also be included – perhaps I have written you this before. If so pray excuse the repetition.

I am very glad to hear that General Darling and his family have arrived safe. I hope you will see them. I feel much kindness towards them all, much as they have been abused.

I have never seen the present Governor nor any of his family. Young Mr. Bourke called once or twice at Parramatta and the Governor and suite slept the night at Camden. He is now on a tour to Bathurst and Wellington Valley, his son and daughter with him.

And now, dear Edward, I will tell you of our position here, and how we are. I am writing in the drawing room, Edward reading to his Aunt Elizabeth, Mary nursing the little man who is somewhat ailing from teething; Mr. Bowman in his library talking to a confidential person who has been employed about your poor father, and who has just been the bearer of the letters you will receive from dear James, together with a little despatch to ourselves from James, Emmeline and

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Mrs. Lucas. They are all well, and only complaining of a very wet day yesterday. Little James is on a visit to Aunt Emmeline. I find he was taken to see his poor grandfather yesterday, and was kindly received. Mr. Bowman is not yet so far recovered from the effects of his fall, as to be enabled to make visits to the country. However, he is progressively getting better. From dear William I have not had a direct communication this week, but I learn from Parramatta he is well and very busy. Last week he sent us flowers – the rhododendrons, lilac prunus, etc. etc. Mr. Macleay, who is such a lover of horticulture, interests himself very much in William’s success. Therefore I sent them some of the specimens. Mr. Macleay has a very beautiful interesting garden and ornamental ground at Elizabeth Bay. We go there frequently, and sometimes meet the family.

As there will be another ship, the Florentia that will sail for England very soon, I shall not extend my letter beyond a single sheet, and I promised to leave room for a few lines from Elizabeth. All the family unite in most affectionate remembrances to you, with, my dearest Edward,
Your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

Fail not to remember us to our friend T.H.S., to Dawson and to all who think of us kindly. Thanks for your intelligence from Devonshire.
...

(Added by Elizabeth Macarthur)
Tell Mrs. T. Thompson that Frederick was quite well when we last heard from him. My dearest brother, I cannot seal our mother’s letter without one line of affectionate greeting, although it be only to re-iterate what I trust you have no occasion to be told, that although I cannot make up ? to write long letters, my sisterly feelings are not the less warm towards you and my regard for [blank space] is undiminished. God bless my brother, accept the love of
Yours, Elizabeth MacArthur.

[Page 590]

Wollomallah.
25 May 1833.

My beloved Edward:

I wrote a few lines to accompany a letter from James which he sent me from Parramatta to be forwarded by the Dryad, said to sail tomorrow morning for London direct. Your brother was about to set out to Camden when he wrote and by a communication from Emmeline just this minute received, I find he did so. You will I trust have received all our various letters and communications pretty regularly. You will learn from them that your poor father was removed to Camden a short time since, and although he went with apparent unwillingness, he is there enjoying himself very much, taking great interest in the building, the garden and horses. I do not hear that he makes any enquiries or notices anything relative to the sheep. Dr. Hill has been to see him and Mr. George Macleay several times but no stranger, consequently he has quieted himself in a better state of mind and with respect to bodily health, William writes that he never knew him so well, never having recourse to any medicine whatever. He eats, sleeps and looks well.

We are very anxious as to the result of dear James’s visit more for his own sake, poor fellow, than from any other cause, as he frets under the continuance of your poor father’s expressions of wrath and can hardly be persuaded of the distinction between mental aberration and anger, when expressed towards himself in all the bitterness too which your poor father can readily call to his aid. It had become absolutely necessary the removal where no strangers were in the vicinity. At Parramatta from the time Dr. Wallace left your father he seemed desirous to cultivate the society of the officers, and dear James thinking that would answer gave in to the [blank space] They were frequently invited to dinner and at length it became an every day business going into the town and bringing some of them home whilst we were still kept at a distance. A meddling person named Dickinson was one of the chosen associates a man not respected and a considerable stranger in the

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Colony. This person and another who is considered to be his dupe (Dr. Forster) have caused some annoyance to your brother, and they are suspected to be the authors of a letter signed “Observer" which was sent to two of the newspapers for insertion last week. The Australian published a copy, the Herald declined. Your brother called on the different editors. They all behaved very well, and so indeed has everyone whose good opinion is valuable. You will see the papers and have all the details by the first opportunity. In the meantime dearest Edward, be comforted and join us in prayers for support where only it is truly and permanently to be found.

James received a letter from Colonel Lindsay last week. He was in good health and says the Regiment had only lost three men from the time of their embarkation. He says all the horses arrived safe and were much admired. He mentions you with his wonted friendship and requested to be taken [blank space] to you. He was about to have a command in the interior. I have not seen dear Emmeline since I last wrote to you. She is still busying herself in getting the house in better order. Mrs. Lucas has been with us and spent a day or two. Mrs. King the Elder is in Sydney on a visit to Mrs. Jones where she is to stay until after the celebration of H.M. birthday at Government House in the evening of Tuesday next. I am told there are five hundred cards of invitation gone forth!! We are invited as a thing, of course. Mr. Bowman will attend. I believe James has explained everything to Mr. Bourke. Mary and Mr. Bowman met Mrs. King at Mrs. Macquoid’s the day before yesterday. She has promised to spend a day here before returning to Parramatta. Mrs. Phillip King has presented her husband with a daughter, born this day week. There are already seven sons. This is the first daughter. Young Elizabeth is staying with her aunt during the time of her confinement, which is as it should be. I do not understand that any of the girls are coming to the Ball, only Grandmama. I yesterday drove out to

[Page 592]

Mr. Bowman’s new purchase, that part of the Glebe sold by the Church Committee to Revd. Cowper. T.H.S. knows all about it. It is a pretty site for a house, and there is already a very good garden and paddocks all well fenced, the spot is now being cleared from brushwood and trees on which the building of the house is to be commenced immediately. It is a subject of wonder to me to see how quickly houses are raised and made habitable in the neighbourhood and town of Sydney.

Mrs. and the Miss Macleays called on us yesterday. They are about to build on their beautifully embellished property at Elizabeth Bay not a mile from Wollahmalah. I shall say nothing of the house your zealous and industrious brother William has got into such a state of forwardness at Camden. Mr. Bowman says it will be respectable and good family house and that there are some appartments in it nearly ready to accommodate your father with which he has expressed himself highly pleased and has desired a bath to be attached to one. He spoke himself to the architect (Mr. Verge) on the subject. I doubt not William has written to you about all these things. I am most anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next letters from you. The last received were by Dr. Rutherford, who again takes his departure in the Mangles next week, “via Canton." He is to dine here tomorrow and take our commands, as he is pleased to say. James has taken him a drive to Windsor, where they stayed two nights. You will be sure to see the Doctor on his return to London. He has expressed himself so much gratified by your attention to him. Elizabeth wrote you at great length by Dr. Watt who sailed in the Edward Lombe. I rather feel she will have a tedious passage, like the long expected Lunar, which has not yet arrived. We have heard she was obliged to touch at Port Dalrymple, being in distress for provisions. This intelligence came by the Westmoreland, which vessel arrived here this day week. Mr. John [blank space], of well known Colonial celebrity and his family were amongst the passengers. He

[Page 593]

is to be one of the editors of the Australian. His brother Francis resigns to him.

Remember us all most kindly to T.H.S. and to Davidson and his family. Say all that is kind and which you may deem agreeable from us to them. A pony was brought from Parramatta yesterday for Edward. He had a saddle and bridle by his father’s order sent by Mr. Buchanan. It is a beautiful little animal and Mr. Riddle (sic) our Treasurer is just now adjusting the said trappings and the children, Papa and Mama also are looking on and admiring. Mr. Riddle is accustomed to the menage. He is a gentlemanly person and on very good terms with our brothers. I can only say that we are all pretty well and beg you to accept our most affectionate love and every good wish for you, dearest Edward, and for all those kind and thoughtful friends who are attached (or attentive) to you.

Ever your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 594]

January 23, 1834.

My dearest Edward:

You will have thought it long since you have been troubled to decypher my scribble. I have not been enabled to write so frequently to you since my return to dear home as when I was sojourning at Sydney, partly on account of a slight inflammation in my eyes and also that I am not so immediately in the way of the sailing ships and old people require some time to collect all the materials together for writing a letter. Emmeline has just mended me two pens and as we expect a visit from Dr. Roberts to-day to take time I am solicitous to write my letter forthwith so that I may give it to him personally. He promised to endeavour to see you if you are in town when he arrives. I have delayed writing longer than I should have done in the hopes of receiving later intelligence from you before the “Ensign" sailed. Your last communication was addressed to me giving an account of your presence at an Archery and “fete." and of your intention to accompany Mr. Frith and his family on a trip to the Lakes of Killarney, which to us was most acceptable intelligence, as it bespoke of your perfect restoration to health and spirits. This was I think the third of August. In a letter of Mr. Buchanan to Bowman dated 24th August, he says “Major MacArthur is well at Thames Dutton." We may therefore infer you made your excursion, and we trust you have laid in a stock of health and consequent cheerfulness of spirits.

We are all here, I am thankful to say, well. I enclose two letters of recent date from dear William which will show you the state of things there better than any detail I can give. He has been spending a fortnight or perhaps a day or two between this and Sydney. James stayed at Camden. Mr. James Macleay accompanied William from Camden the day before Christmas Day, Mr. Macleay proceeding on to Sydney to pass the holidays with his family; having done so rejoined your brother here, stayed the night and then returned to Camden together. The two accompanying letters indicative of cheerfulness and that the change and recreation was beneficial. Dear James did not come on the Friday as William writes was his intention, because Captain King and his son, John, with another gentleman had arrived at Camden in the meantime, stayed two nights and on the Saturday morning James arrived quite well and the other gentleman had taken their departure from Camden at the same time. James did think to proceed to Argyle where

[Page 595]

Captain King is making a stock establishment. He paid me a visit about a fortnight ago and made enquiries for you. Mrs. King, the elder we see frequently. She desires her kind love to you. She is very active and visits about in a most wonderful way for an elderly person. The Vineyard family are well. Annie and Kate were here yesterday. They are quite young women, pretty and joyous. They have received letters from their aunts written from Liverpool on their return from Westmoreland, speaking of the great kindness and attention Mrs. Grose was showing them. I often think of Mrs. Grose in former days. She is a fund of information with such a portion of good sense combined with a quick perception and love of the beauties of nature as cannot fail to make her a most agreeable companion.

Hannibal has commenced building a house on a very extensive scale and next to the present cottage – I have not been to see it having not yet had a resolution to move about to make any visits. I have plenty of exercise within the limits of our own estate and the looking about the garden and grounds annexed keeps me amused. I think of your poor father at Camden and am pleased as he is or seeks to be to see a few persons here but the effort to make visits abroad and the apprehension of coming in contact with strangers I have not been able to combat. People in the world would think this a foolish feeling and perhaps it is so.

Elizabeth and Emmeline have each been staying with Mary at different times. Bowman, herself and the children are well. Mary it is expected will soon add another to the number. We wish for a girl. Little James has been staying with us several weeks. He is a fine frolicsome little fellow. Edward is rather delicate, grows rather too rapidly for his strength and is under his father’s care for the present. We hope he will recommence his schooling again soon with the Reverend Mr. Forrest, a most excellent person, master of the King’s School at Parramatta. I am vexed to have crossed my writing. It confuses my own sight and it will be an infliction on your patience I fear, but I had determined on a letter of chit-chat and gossip details, if you please so to call them. I recollect dear T.H.S. disliked crossed writing. Probably our present Archdeacon is soon to depart with his family for England whether with the intention to return or not I have not heard. Mr. Broughton preached at Camden a short time since and dined there. They have expressed regret that circumstances

[Page 596]

should have prevented our more intimate and familiar intercourse. Mrs. Broughton was very attentive to me at Sydney. She always expresses the most affectionate and grateful sense of Mr. Scott’s kindness to them on their arrival in the Colony and so indeed does Mr. B. I believe he is most dissatisfied with the Governor and the Chief Justice. His Excellency and family are residing at Parramatta in a very private way. Mrs. Deas Thomson has returned. the visit your sisters paid her since her marriage. The Governor I have never seen. I do not hear that he pays any visits of ceremony.

By a letter from Frederick Thomson to James I perceive he is well and in good spirits. He writes from his farm residence. Mr. MacAlister has left Goulburn Plains to take hand of the first division of mounted police at Bathurst. His brother Mathew superintends his farming concerns. Our friend has again distinguished himself by capturing bushrangers a party of whom have lately committed a variety of depradations, amongst the number on a stock establishment of Captain King’s which they have pillaged of everything useful they could take away, in a short space of time. They armed themselves and mounted on stolen horses. They became terrible to the lonely settlers. I believe these marauders are now in safe custody. You will receive letters from Elizabeth and Emmeline, James of course who I am grateful to say is recovering again his good looks and accustomed serenity of countenance which had wellnigh forsaken him during the arduous and harrassing period of the last eighteen months.

X ...

Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

X Here follow 4 pp which are not crossed.

[Page 597]

Sydney, Sunday, March 23, 1834.

My dearest Edward:

I have the pleasure to acknowledge your letter to me of the 6th November by the Planter which I received yesterday and to communicate to you the birth of a little niece. I came from Parramatta on Thursday, Elizabeth accompanied me but returned in the evening, taking with her young Edward. Yesterday your dear sister Mary was safely delivered of a fine little girl! In the great satisfaction of both parents and relatives I have the pleasure to add that both the mother and infant are doing as well as can be expected. I left at Parramatta Emmeline, Mrs. Lucas and little James quite well. The latter is a merry active little fellow full of frolic and merriment. Your brother James arrived from Camden a few hours after I left home and by a note from him last evening I find he has written to you and given his letter to Mr. Burke ...

(Continuation on p. 5)

... went to Parramatta to visit the family yesterday. The Vineyard family are well, also the Kings, old and young. Frequent enquiries are made for you and abundance of loves and greetings I am generally commissioned to send you from all. You will be glad to know good worthy Mr. Bennet continues well and grateful to you for his present independence. God bless you, my dearest Edward,
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 598]

Parramatta, Friday 26 September, 1834.

My dearest Edward,

I wrote a few hurried lines by the “Harmony," and although I know James has written yet as you so strenuously request a letter from one of us by every opportunity, I have taken pen in hand, feeling, however, mine will be a very meagre communication. We have to thank you, my dearest son, for various letters by Dr. MacArthur who arrived a few days since, and is now I understand in lodgings at Sydney, wishing he could be accommodated with a house in Parramatta. I am told there is no such thing to be had – there are strangers continually arriving from one part of the world or another speedily tenanting every decent habitation as soon as it is fit to receive inmates. James came from Camden unexpectedly to us on business. We on the same day despatched the English letters etc. to him and William. They missed James but William returning them the day following. James called on Dr. MacArthur and was much pleased with him. He also called on Mr. Dudley North, introduced by our friend T.H.S. to Mr. Bowman, and by Mr. Marjoribanks to James. He missed seeing the latter and having appointments which called him back again to Camden there is no chance of their meeting for some days to come. William is purposing to go into Argyle. He was to have set out to-day from Camden, but I believe he has postponed his departure until Monday. You will be aware the busy season for arranging the flocks and the commencement of shearing is at hand. There is large cultivation of grain and crops. The harvesting of the former is fast approaching, your brothers are consequently much engaged.

Dr. Smith, who was the bearer of some letters and books has been staying a short time at Camden. Mr. Bowman accompanied him. He returned here much gratified by the attention that had been shown him and by what he saw there. Mr. Marsden goes to Camden tomorrow and intends to perform Divine Service there the following day, Sunday. Mr Marsden is again at the head of the Church. He keeps his health

[Page 599]

wonderfully well and is very active. Mrs. Marsden is well also. They always enquire for you. Mrs. King spent last evening with us. She is quite in good spirits and desires to be kindly remembered to you. Captain King is in the interior on a sheep establishment of his. He spent two or three days at Camden on his way and will also stay there on his return. He has grown stout and looks very well. Dr. Fairfowl and Hannibal returned from Argyle on Tuesday last also James Junior. They passed a day or so at Camden. Dr. Fairfowl also passed a fortnight with your brothers previously. They accompanied Dr. Fairfowl to Illawarra, known now by the appellation of the Land of Palms. Of the fame of this little much admired part of the country you will hear from himself, I trust.

I believe he is looking out for a ship in which to take his passage. All the Vineyard family are merry and well, just at the season of life when everything is fresh and smiling. Elizabeth has been staying lately a few weeks at Sydney. She returned not quite with her usual health suffering from something of a fever? to an intermittent. She will write by the very next ship. She and Emmeline have commenced drying flowers for you. The latter has gone to Sydney to-day and also Mrs. Lucas. We expect they will bring your young namesake back with them. He has been staying with Mama two or three weeks. His health is yet delicate.

We rejoice at the good account you give of Davidson. Pray remember us to him. That the disposition of Belmont is yet undecided I confess annoys me. Shall I say that Davidson ought not to make any difficulties. It can be of very minor importance to him and when I have been told be offered it to Mr. Dent, I think for £700, I feel vexed.

So our friend T.H.S. is gone to Frankfurt and is returned again long ere this, I trust well. We think of him often. I have reached the bottom of my paper, and shall now conclude with prayers for your health and comfort. Ever be assured that I am, dear Edward, your affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur

[Page 600]

Added by Elizabeth Macarthur.

One line I must write, my dear Edward, if it is only to assure you of our increasing affection, that we may have appeared to be remiss in writing to you for many months past. I doubt not but indeed my brother our silence has been caused by the fear of communicating our own melancholy feelings to you, for when the heart is sad we cannot write cheerfully to those we truly love. May we now by the blessing of Almighty God be enabled to feel and to communicate with each other as we were wont to do only perhaps with the chastened [blank space] of mind which great grief must bring to those who feel as they ought to do. How solicitously we shall look for your letters some months hence I need not say.

God bless you, beloved brother,
Yours,
E. Maca.

[Page 601]

Parramatta.
September 11, 1835.

My dearest Edward:

Your letter by the Mary, which I received the evening before last, lies now before me. You date it in November, but from the touching of its commencement, you must have written it on the 20th of April. Although, my dearest son, we need not be reminded of what that month has deprived us – blessed spirits I trust they are whom we vainly lament! I may truly say no day passes and on many scarcely an hour, that my thoughts do not revert to the many excellencies and virtuous traits of character of both. We have received a letter from you, or I believe I may say letters, of a later date, one by the Canton, addressed to James and William passed through my hands dated 9th May. This vessel with female emigrants arrived a day previous to the Mary. She is placed in quarantine, having the smallpox on board, which causes something of a panic and is causing numerous applications to the Medical Department for vaccination. Before this alarm, it was difficult to induce subjects to be vaccinated. Before I notice other subjects, I should tell you how and where we all are, as perhaps you will not receive any letters by this conveyance but from me.

Your brothers are both absent. William I expect is at Taralga about this time, James at Camden. Mr. Leslie is at Camden also staying a few days previous to his departure for the Hunter and Goulburn to take charge of his uncle’s stock. We are all of us in good health, and as cheerful as a most unpropitious season will allow us to be. It is the most severe one I think we have experienced. I cannot tax my memory to say how long we have been without a fall of rain. There have been showers on the coast and just enough about Sydney to support vegetation in the gardens. Here we are woefully deficient. No grass and vegetation at Camden the same on a more disastrous scale. The wheat cannot vegetate and for want of autumnal rain the crop of maize was very scanty. Stock

[Page 602]

of every description are suffering from want of pasturage and water. Sheep endure these scarcities better than most other herds, but a great mortality has prevailed in many flocks. Hitherto no intelligence has reached me of any considerable loss amongst ours. Deficiency of lambs must be calculated on. The ewes cannot sustain their offspring. I will not dwell on this gloomy subject, it is wrong to do so. Before you can read what I have written, we may be surrounded with verdure and regaling ourselves with fruit and flowers. I have still one other disastrous subject to notice – the numerous shipwrecks and fatal loss of life. Of the loss of the George the Third I have before written and of our having had the letters, some of them at least, picked up by an officer on the sands, Miss Frith’s books and a pamphlet descriptive of Stowe, your name in each which identified them. The wreck of the Enchantress followed. Poor young James escaped unhurt with the loss of everything but the cloaths on him. We have intelligence of another ship lost in the ? Bass, a fine new vessel from Leith named the Wallace. No lives lost in this last, I am happy to learn. I think this is four ships wrecked in Bass Strait within the last few months.

I have seen young James several times. I am very glad to say that his uncle has received him. He is a fine looking youth, but I understand his education has been very much neglected. Arrived at the age of 17 without being able to write fairly or spell with ordinary correctness. In truth, my dear Edward, however we might wish to benefit relations it must not be at the expense of the time and attention of your brothers. They have enough to do and no time to devote to the instruction of those who if inmates of the same dwelling would naturally expect to associate with themselves or whatever guests they might have. With Hannibal it is altogether different. There is a young family acquiring instruction, some older and some younger than the youth himself. Vineyard James will be for him to look up to.

[Page 603]

The position of our society is continually changing, enlarging of course. William paid us a short visit last week previous to setting out for Argyle. Whilst he remained he dined at Government House Parramatta, met there the Chief Justice Forbes, with whom he is on terms of great civility at least and greatly affianced in horticultural pursuits. Mr. Forbes is about to return to England with the intention of remaining a short time and I presume finally to settle in this country where he has become a considerable proprietor. A great doubt arises who is to be the chief in his absence. Mr. Dowling claims precedency, Mr. Burton it seems is entitled to the situation on every account.

We received safe every letter and paper entrusted to the care of Dr. Osborne. He brought his family with him. He makes another voyage himself, leaving his wife and children for whom he has taken a cottage in Parramatta. I hope Mr. Fairfowl will have [arrived] safe and in good health; his voyage has certainly been tedious. My last letter was by the Rosanna. I will as you so earnestly desire it, write or cause to be written a letter to you once a month, to go by any opportunity that may offer.

Mr. Bowman, Mary and the two children with them are well, residing at Lyndhurst a very handsome residence nearly furnished. Edward is with us, receiving lessons from one of the Reverend Mr. Forrest’s tutors twice a week. Little William is living with us also, a remarkably fine intelligent boy four years old. Elizabeth has paid great attention to Edward so that notwithstanding his delicate health he is quite forward enough. Both boys send their love to “Uncle Edward," Mrs. Lucas also. She dines with us every day. Hannibal was with us yesterday. I hope all is well in Devonshire. Our remembrances to all friends, particularly to Dear T.H.S. and also to Mr. Bigge, not forgetting Davidson with whom ...

My dearest Edward, ever your affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur

(Excuse this – I have written at an hour’s notice.

[Page 604]

My dearest brother will I hope accept a few lines in lieu of a longer letter. In truth I have nothing half so agreeable to communicate as our Mother’s writing will of itself put you in possession of. She is, thank God, quite well and in better spirits than could have almost been hoped for, since this season is in itself sufficient to cast a gloom on the feelings of all. Emmeline has been much stronger since her recovering from the measles, and is indeed altogether in better health than I have known her to be for many years. Frederick Thompson was quite well when we last heard from him about a fortnight since. He was then about to visit us, but a storm of sleet or snow and rain together induced him to turn back. He will not now be with us until after William’s visit to Taralga whither he is gone. Dear Mrs. Lucas is well, and finds amusement in the morning at her cottage, spending the other part of the day with us. Tell our dear T.H.S. it is heartbreaking circumstance to us that any other but himself should be our first Bishop. We always determined this high office should be his. Offer our affectionate love to Mrs. Plummer and her family, to Mrs. F.T. and hers also. God bless my brother.
In haste,
Your Elizabeth.

[Page 605]

Concluding page of a letter dated Lyndhurst,
December 30, 1836.

My beloved sons:

... of Bridgewater and Pyworthy in a letter by his nephew Mr. Henry Kingdon, was rather soliciting me to visit my native land. Mr. Henry Kingdon spent Christmas Day here and dined with us once before. He receives a salary of £100 a year as a clerk in the Record Office at the Convict Barracks. Mr. Bowman has given him a general invitation to come on Sundays and at evenings when he may be so disposed.

It is now nearly three weeks since we were bereft of our old and affectionate friend, dear Mrs. Lucas. I am hardly aware of her (or the?) privation, having come here about a fortnight afterwards. As soon as dear Mary is quite strong and downstairs, I think of returning, where I shall miss the solace of friendship the last of so many years.

Accept, dearest Edward, my thanks for the precaution you took in communicating the death of my aged parent. It was an event I had long expected, and but for the intelligence brought me by Mr. Kingdon should have been quite prepared for. You have anticipated my wishes in every respect, and I have every reason to be grateful to a kind Providence for his mercies vouchsafed unto me. When some of our acquaintances amongst the naval surgeons return, I shall be enabled to transmit correspondence and write more in detail.

With love and every affectionate remembrance to each of you, hoping you may be near each other, with prayers for your brother’s welfare, and a happy New Year in which I am joined by Mary and Mr. Bowman, believe me to be, my dear sons,
Your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

Our kind remembrances to Mr. Davidson, Mr. Bigge and Mr. Scott. William had a letter from Mr. Mathison, he was at Captain Rossi’s and would spend some time at Camden

P.T.O

[Page 606]

when he returned. Mr. Lesley, Gordon, the two Jameses were at Arthursleigh with Annie, Kate and Hannibal and Maria.

[Page 607]

Parramatta.
Thursday January 11, 1838.

My beloved James:

I have just been perusing your letters by the Duchess of Kent, which have only come to hand a day or two, first having been forwarded by post to Camden, whilst William and Frederick were between this place and Sydney. The latter accompanied your brother from Berrima when he returned from Argyle, and left the day before yesterday on his return. I requested he would write and give an account of himself, and particularly to Miss Plummer, and he said he would. He is in good health, and we think grows stouter. We are much pleased to find you were about to set off on an excursion and proposed visiting Frederick’s friends. I like the sketch of your projected tour and hope you will find his friends well whom you purposed to visit, and sure I am they will rejoice to see you. The Vineyard family are much gratified by your taking Charles with you. The Erskines told us you proposed doing so. They arrived quite well and reached the Vineyard a few hours after Hannibal, his three daughters, Elizabeth Kate and Mary together with Leslie and Mr Matheson had arrived from Arthursleigh on Saturday evening, the 30th of last month. Mr. Gordon did not go up the country. I know not if Annie be his engaged, as she remained at home with her mother, grandmother and the younger branches of the family, I think the Erskines very pleasant young people. He was almost immediately ordered on duty. They were in lodgings at a corner house in Castlereagh Street. Mary has been attentive to them. Mr. Bowman has been at Hunter’s River since their arrival from whence he is expected to return the end of this week. The Erskines spoke most gratefully of your kindness and attention to them. William has visited them two or three times. He dined on the Tuesday at Captain MacInnes who with his family resided at Birchgrove. The party were Captain Perry (Parry?), the gentleman accompanying Mr. Langer’s (sic) (Langa) situation in the Customs (whose name does not immediately occur to me. He who has

[Page 608]

also a large family, lives in the neighbourhood of Birchgrove, as does Captain Perry,) Captain Dumaresq Mr. P. Laurentz Campbell our police magistrate, and your brother, who had something of a scramble to get to Lyndhurst to sleep. he was however most hospitably offered a bed at Birchgrove, but he had an appointment to keep, the wool teams were expected early in the morning in Sydney where they arrived safe, returned thus far Tuesday evening, rested here yesterday and set out for Camden early this morning, where met by Irby (John) beyond Lansdown Bridge at nine o’clock, the aforesaid having been in Camden for a few supplies, and he also told us Joseph who returned from Sydney direct had arrived, and that he saw Mr. Coles and that the corn was growing beautifully, etc. etc. Does this bring old pastoral scenes before you, and so put Camden in your mind’s eye? I have felt for you, dear James, as I looked over your book, and wonder not that you were completely weary of pen, ink, and paper. The prospect of seeing Edward is I confess most gratifying to me, not that I think he will like the country in the state of society, but I hope he will be content to sojourn amongst us for a while with satisfaction to himself, and I wish he should see things as they are. No writing can faithfully depict them. There is a constant change, a new dynasty will probably make many alterations. Sir George Gipps is known to the Bishop and to Major Barney and what is somewhat singular, a week or two before his appointment was known, they were speaking of him as a “rising man." I am writing this in great haste to go by Dr. Roberts, who will deliver the packet in St. James Street. He took leave of us yesterday, expecting to sail on Friday.

Pray make our kind remembrances to W.S.D. with our united best wishes for his comfort and happiness and fail not to mention us to our old esteemed friend T.H.S., Mr. Bigge and others who may remember us.

[Page 609]

You will remember probably see Sir Richard Bourke. He called here two or three times since your departure and come expressly to take leave before he left Parramatta with his daughter, Mrs. D. Thomson. He seemed a good deal affected and so indeed were we. He said he hoped he should see you in England. There was a great splash by the Patriots by addresses, subscriptions and gross adulations just previous and at his embarkation. It seemed to be a spark which suddenly ignited and kindled a mighty blaze. I respect Sir Richard Bourke as a gentleman, and latterly he was kind to us and we were more frequently in the habit of seeing him. William sent him the first of your books which came out with a note. The Governor’s reply will be enclosed to you. One cannot but lament that so intelligent and courteous and gentlemanly a person should be otherwise than straightforward in his politicks.

We are all pretty well, both here at at Lyndhurst. I had an attack of influenza some weeks since, which has I think increased the nervous irritability of my system. But I have reason to be grateful to the Almighty for such a measure of health as I possess at my advanced age. Little William is with us here and Uncle William also. Mr. Anderson is coming to dine with us. He extracted a diseased tooth from William this morning. It has been plaguing him some time. As he writes to you and as I believe Elizabeth or Emmeline will also, I only add my prayers for your health, happiness and success, my dear dear James,
Your affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur.

[Page 610]

Parramatta, June 15, 1838.

My dearest Edward:

I write a few lines which are intended for the post merely to apprise you and dear James, should he be still detained, that we are all well and that a packet of letters from William were also despatched from hence on Saturday last and consigned to the care of Mr. Dawes with the belief the vessel the “Spartan" or “Marmion" would sail on the following morning. We have since had a message from Mr. Dawes. He says she will not sail before next Tuesday. It is now Friday and this being put into the Parramatta Post Office this evening it will be in time for the mail at Sydney; together with William’s letter to yourself and one to the Messrs. Lo...e’s (Lockyer’s?) [Transcriber’s note: Lodiges. See page 456.] were two letters from the German families, including one especially addressed to yourself. They were all opened and intended for your inspection I conclude and I hope you will receive the packets safe.

I returned from Camden with Elizabeth and little William a month since and left your dear father nearly recovered to his usual activity. Elizabeth and her young charge had been at Camden two months. On returning we called on Mrs. Sturt who lives a short distance from the roadside. Captain Sturt is again on an expedition to South Australia, leaving Mrs. S. to manage the farm. I think she is a very amiable person. We found dear Emmeline well and called to see us again.
...

Added by Elizabeth
My dearest Brothers:

Our mother is interrupted and it is now too late in the evening for her to write with comfort, so take my scribble thankfully. Mama passed three weeks at Camden and saw all the new arrivals frequently.

(P. 3, not being crossed, does not require to be transcribed.)

(Cont. on p. 4.)
I hope that the members of his family in England may be now restored to tranquility. It is a consolation under so

[Page 611]

heavy an affliction that the children are provided for. Pray offer our affectionate remembrances to them all.

We had a visit from the Messrs. Magee and found them very agreeable persons. Captn. Magee has suffered severely from ill health, but he said that the air of the country had really benefitted him. They proceeded from Camden to Yass in a gig. I showed them the anemones and ranunculus you, dear James, purchased all growing [blank space] – that is your second purchase, for as you had anticipated those packed in the bale of moss are quite spoiled, not one root will grow. Alas for all the [blank space]. I am hurried for the post and have only time to add that as our previous letters have complained of drought we have just had the [blank space] and most welcome relief of 12 hours’ rain.

A billet from William this minute (6 p.m.) come tells of the rain having fallen more heavily at Camden than here. “It will, thank God," he says, “bring up the wheat and do a world of good in every other respect." This is indeed a most timely relief for we were very very anxious. William also writes that he is quite better, and sends a lovely little new flower to shew me, being one I had watched budding. Again I add a hurried line most affectionately. All at Lyndhurst are well.

I am, dearest brother,
Yours,
Elizabeth MacArthur

Friday, June 15, 1838.

[Page 612]

Parramatta, March 23, 1838.

My beloved Sons:

I am exceedingly chagrined to find that all letters addressed to you intended for the vessel which sailed on Sunday last have by some mistake of the postmaster at Parramatta been delayed. Another ship is expected to sail on Sunday next, and perhaps she may reach England as soon as the Alfred. Mr. Bowman I know has written a long letter consigned I believe to the care of Dr. Sproule. He has told you of the “addresses" and the news of Sydney. It remains for me to write of home affairs. We are all pretty well, both here and at the Vineyard, at Lyndhurst also. At Camden I am sorry to say dear William has had and still has a most harrassing time on account of a fever which broke out among the emigrants. Nothing of the kind appeared before the arrival of those William engaged amongst the Gloucestershire families. The disease showed itself first in a young lad, a son of one of those families. Several children were attacked and then many of the women and men. Still I am happy to say there has been as yet no deaths, and from intelligence received by Hughes this morning and a letter from your brother, there are no fresh cases, but the fever has left delirium and other painful consequences.

A surgeon who came from England in the Upton Castle has been staying at Camden this last fortnight, and has had the sick under his charge. William writes that Dr. Morrison is desirous to leave Camden in a day or two and that he has every reason to be pleased with his attentions to the sick and with his kindness and gentlemanly deportment in general. He is come to this country with an intention to settle in it, as I have been told.

Our new Governor has paid two hasty visits to Parramatta. William will have written of his interview with him at Sydney and that he was much pleased. We shall of course call on Lady Gipps soon. She has been overwhelmed by calls, and was not in health to admit visitors so soon after her arrival.

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Mary has called and been admitted. You will be glad to hear that she has also visited the Plunketts, and is very well pleased with her reception. Emmeline has frequently met them and they are always cordial.

I was here interrupted by a visit from Mrs. Hassall and Mrs. Bobart. They took luncheon with us and we have had a very agreeable chat on old recollections and on olden times. Mr. Hassall has taken great interest in our emigrants. Mrs. Bobart, (late Elizabeth Marsden) is much impressed. Mr. B., her husband, officiates for Mr. Marsden in Parramatta. He is a gentleman and I think will do good. Mr. Marsden who spent an evening here last week, seems bent on making the voyage to New Zealand. He is under the belief that the Baron de Thierry is endeavouring to make converts of the natives to the Roman Catholic faith. The Bishop is also going but first visits Port Phillip and the southern settlements. I should tell you the Marsdens, and indeed all our acquaintances, make [solicitous] enquiries for you both, dear Edward and dear James. Mrs. Hassall asked also for our friend T.H.S. The Hassals and Mr. and Mrs. C. Cowper, you are aware, are near neighbours. Mrs. C.C. came to see us a few days since, and she also enquired for our friend as for you, James. Edward she does not know. I have had Mrs. William Cox here and also poor Mrs. Riley from Raby. She has lost the place, being unable to manage the servants. Her three children and herself are now residing in a cottage in Parramatta. Our cottage on the place is only occupied by Mary Everard, at present, but we expect Murray and his wife will return to it again, as he has relinquished his plan of going to England, having three boys (nephews) come out to him by the Portland. Nelly was very averse to his going away, and will be very glad to come back to the cottage, which will enable us to be more at Camden I hope.

You will hear of the death of Colonel Dumaresq. He has left a widow and seven children. Mr. and Mrs. William Dumaresq were at Port Stephens at the time. Application has been made

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to Mr. Bowman for a residence for this family at one of his Hunters River establishments which he did not consider as prudent or convenient to accede to.

There is a French man of war here. Four of the officers with “Monsieur Joubert" have spent four days at Camden. They came on Saturday last and returned to Sydney on Wednesday, and as Hughes (?) tells me joyous and well pleased. Our cousin Hannibal has purchased at Watson’s Bay a cottage and two acres of land. They have furnished it and Maria H. and Elizabeth and Mary are now residing there. At home are Annie, Kate at present, James the boys and younger girls, also Messrs. Leslie Mathison and Gordon. Grandmama is staying at Sydney. Mr. Gordon has rented Westwood from James, so that I suppose will occupy some attention and he has purchased two flocks of sheep from Hannibal. Mr. Mathison will soon return to India and Mr. Leslie will be returning to his uncle’s establishment. When the march [Transcriber’s note: marriage – see page 440.] is to take place I have not been told. H. has written to you, James, more than once lately, as I learn. Both he and Mary are very sensible and of your kindness to Charles. Poor Dr. Harris is very ill and his decease daily expected.

Mr. Bowman went to Shanes Park to see him about ten days since. Mr. B. said Major MacArthur was expected. he said “when – and when James?" He has a nephew come out, John Harris, but it is rumoured he has made a strange will. Murray was an executor in a former instrument. With my prayers for you both, I remain,
Your ever affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur.

Elizabeth will add a line.

(Added by Elizabeth Macarthur.)
Dearest brothers:

My usual “line." Mama having surely told you everything, she has now however mentioned that Mrs. Deas Thomson spent a day with us lately and that we were all very happy and heard her sweet voice in its sweetest tones; that Em has

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since been at a large party given by Mr. D. Thomson to the new arrivals, where her voice did not sound so well; that Mr. D.T. brought Mr. Elliott, and one of the Governor’s suite and Captain [blank space] to luncheon here the other day. Very interesting is it not? To-day we have this moment had a visit from Colonel French to request that his regiment may be allowed to pass through here on their way to a Grand Review.

Irby has just arrived from Camden. He brings a confirmation of the good intelligence by Hughes that the sick people are better. God bless you, my brothers,
Yours,
E. MacA.

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Parramatta, April 27, 1838.

My beloved Son:

I have the pleasing intelligence to write that the German emigrants proceeded on from hence towards Camden at a very early hour this morning. All well and cheerful. I saw them all last night for a few minutes and was highly pleased with their appearance and demeanour. They would not be landed from the Kinnear so as to come to Parramatta by the early steamer so that it was 7 o’clock when they arrived here. We had a supper ready for them, and I saw men, women and children comfortably arranged on either side of the long table. We afterwards, that is Emmeline and myself, had an interview with the foreman and another and their two wives in the drawing room. The drays were waiting for them and all the baggage was arranged for departure, plant cases etc. etc. therefore they just reposed a little and set out on their journey, the children and one of the parents in a convenient Braking carriage driven by our coachman Hughs (?) with a pair of carriage horses – a breakfast at an inn (Martin’s) half way had been previously bespoke, where we hope they have safely reached and are at this moment proceeding from thence on their way to Camden. Perhaps we may have the pleasure of hearing of their arrival there in time to communicate to you, who have taken so active a part in procuring at no small expense of time and trouble families so interesting to our colony, and such as we trust will be beneficial to ourselves more immediately. I know you will be most solicitous to hear of these poor people which makes me so particular to write all that I can about them at this time. This letter must be put into the Post Office before 8 o’clock in the evening to be forwarded by ship to sail on Sunday. I believe, and indeed their appearance bespeaks they had good treatment on the voyage which was rather long. A box of fruit has been sent to Captain Mallard this morning. We will invite him to Camden in good time.

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And now, dearest Edward, what shall I say next? Thanks for your letter in the first place, and for the the extract from the Hanbro (?) intelligence which you have been so good to translate. It is a gratifying announcement and I could wish to see it in the columns of our journals. But one is afraid of the [blank space] in this Colony – best let sleeping dogs alone. I believe there is still strong party feelings. We have discontinued to take the Colonist paper on account of its slanderous tendency. I have before noticed that Emmeline is here with me. Elizabeth and little Will have been at Camden some time. I am concerned to say your brother has been wisely confined to the house almost for several weeks in consequence of some little injury sustained from a fall from his horse. I say little because the Doctors all say it is of no consequence more than that he must keep quiet for a while. Since the accident occurred he came to Parramatta, was at Sydney and in a day (?) or two he complained of some trifling inconvenience, but it was only after his return to Camden he became more sensible of the injury. Since your old acquaintance Mr. Price has been with William more than once and very lately, he can give other particulars. Poor William has had a most harrassing time by the sickness of the farmer emigrants. A fever has prevailed among them of an alarming nature. I am thankful to say notwithstanding hitherto there has been no death and excepting in one case only they are all on the recovery that have been attacked, and no fresh cases have appeared for several weeks. The wife of Vincent, one of your Dorsetshire people, had the fever to a very alarming degree and followed by delirium long continued. The husband, a good groom, came from Camden yesterday to assist the present expedition in removing. He told me his wife was now quite right again, only weak. I am interrupted by a visit from your three cousins, Elizabeth, Annie and Mary. Many other kind enquiries for James and yourself. Hannibal has made a purchase of a cottage in Watson’s Bay at the South Head. There he, Mary and part of

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the family have been visiting some weeks past. Mr. Mathison sailed for India in the Upton Castle yesterday week. Mr. Leslie a few days previous went to his uncle’s establishment on the Hunter. Mr. Gordon has taken Westwood, and the estate on the opposite side for a term of years at rent. James himself has an Establishment on the Murrumbidgee, two or three hundred miles away. Phillip King has also a depot of sheep etc. at a short distance from his cousin. These young men will probably get rich!

I have not yet seen the Governor. We have paid our respects to Lady Gipps, who appears to be quiet and unaffected. William has had a conversation with Sir George Gipps and thinks him a talented man. He has been worried with addresses – and upon my word he has great credit for the varied replies – he has given to the last from Windsor – he seems to expect it will be the last. I paid a hasty visit to Lyndhurst on Monday evening, returned the next. I found Mary and her young people quite well. Mr. Bowman had been away to Ravensworth and his other estates a week or two, not expected to return before the 10th May. Whilst I was there Mrs. Deas Thomson came to see me and the day after my return Mary wrote she had Lady Gipps, Mrs. Baring, Mrs. and the Miss Broughtons and two other ladies, all at the same time – too many for Mary to talk to!

We have a family at present residing in Parramatta, a Captain Gordon of the Navy, wife, son and daughter. He is son to the old established wine merchant at Funchal Island at Madeira, the firm “Gordon and Duff." The Upton Castle called at Madeira for the family. Captain G. is an old shipmate of Mr. Bowman’s. I have filled my paper, and therefore only add my wishes the most affectionate to you, dear James, and all friends,
Your ever affectionate Mother,
E. MacArthur.

Emmeline will perhaps add a line. We are both pretty well. By a letter from Elizabeth she is delighted “that you received hers of August so quickly." She says Captain

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King had been staying at Camden since Monday, left yesterday morning. May this be equally speedy. By Captain Price, I yet hope to say something more of the interesting Germans. I find Emmeline is writing more at length than we would do by Post, therefore I shall close this and pray excuse all inaccuracies from an old woman. I cannot look over what I have written. I have many enquiries “if the Major is not coming out, and when."

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Parramatta, May 5, 1838.

(endorsed to Major Macarthur.)

It is reported that the poor old “Buffalo" is bound for England on Saturday next. I therefore take the opportunity of writing a Post Letter. This ancient Colonial servant has been to New Zealand for spars and wood fitted for shipping purposes. Of her success in procuring such as promises to be useful I cannot speak.

On this day week, both Emmeline and myself wrote to you at considerable length. Our packets were consigned to the care of Morgan Price, a passenger in the Midlothian, which sailed from Sydney on Sunday last. I wrote a Post Letter besides to tell you of the safe arrival of the Germans and of their party being on the road to Camden at the time of my writing which place they reached early in the evening of that day and are now established in the dwellings prepared for them near the Vineyard, and as Elizabeth writes to us, they appear cheerful and happy. One woman only has an aguish affliction. Your brother has been prescribing for her relief and has already effected a change in the hour of attack, which is said to be one step towards a cure. She brought the complaint from the ship. I hear of no other ailment amongst them. I have the pleasure to add that the fever cases amongst the other emigrants have disappeared. The patients are slowly regaining strength, which is to us a most comfortable reflection, and to know no individual has fallen victim to this disease which seems to have puzzled the doctors. William himself, poor fellow, has been no trifling sufferer what with his unremitting personal attentions to them before he was obliged to keep quiet from a hurt he had received and by his solicitude and apprehension when he could not see them daily as before. To dismiss the subject and turn to something more pleasing and profitable. I have to tell you that embarked in the Midlothian are 97 bales of our wool which we hope will arrive at a more prosperous market than those of which we have seen arrivals

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announced in the papers if there be not a rise in the wool market we must be patient and forget and hope for better times.

Many thanks, dearest Edward, for your letter to me and a very gratifying extract from the “Hanb (Hamburg?) Journal," which you have kindly translated. It has given us much pleasure as conveying a tribute justly due to your beloved father’s memory, and blended with a well merited mention of yourself. From dear James’ letter by the Fergusson, I find you had gone to Cholmondely Castle to renew your intercourse with those estimable and noble friends, with whom and with the virtues of whom you have been many years familiarised.

I know not when we may look forward to expect James. His political toils we trust may be recompensed by the new Act being passed soon, and that it be framed so as to ensure the best interests of this community – perhaps this is too much to hope for. I need not say how we have regretted your change of mind with respect to revisiting the Colony. I fear to urge it on the score of self-gratification and can only say happiness to you, my dear son, is happiness reflected to me. William wants aid and assistance and we shall be very glad to learn of a period to the sojourn of James in England. We received tidings from Camden yesterday. William drives about the farm in my little phaeton, which is sent there for his use. Elizabeth writes that he is much better and looking so, his appetite good and he is very cheerful. Elizabeth and her nephew, little William, have been staying at Camden some weeks. I should have been there myself before but Murray has been so uncertain and now he has an affair on hand which is likely to occupy a good deal of his time.

Our old acquaintance Dr. Harris departed this life last week. He had been in a dying state for many months past. Murray is an executor to his will and had previously transacted a good deal of business for the poor Doctor. His property is bequeathed to his Irish relatives, some

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of whom are here and there is a belief that much trouble will arise in the settlement of his estate amongst them. Since the death of Mrs. Harris about a year since, he had given way to the most miserly habits and lived in a comparative degree of wretchedness and discomfort. Mr. Bowman visited him occasionally. He had attained the age of 75. Your mother, dear Edward is near 72. We came into the Colony at the same time, and were embarked with yourself an infant in the same ship. I have remained stationary ever since. This poor old residence is endeared to me by many associations. I should be grieved to see it and the gardens neglected and [blank space] There is great difficulty in getting anyone in this money-getting American sort of community to be careful not to destroy. The cottage on the Plain is untenanted – a servant takes care of it. So much for home and its affairs. We have John Irby in the family whilst going with horse and cart frequently to Camden. John Moore waits upon Mr. Anderson. His wife and family live in Parramatta in a cottage of Mrs. Bowater? Bennett?. She lives with them and is still in the possession of excellent health, makes frequent inquiries for you and always with the most grateful retrospect of favours conferred on her by you and your brothers. Moore’s family are examples of virtuous industry and good conduct in every respect. The eldest girl, Betsy is at present with us as a servant. The eldest son a house carpenter and joiner earning two pounds a week.

We had intelligence of Mary yesterday. She and her young people are well. Mr. Bowman is at Hunter’s River. Hannibal’s family are all well, but dispersed just now, Elizabeth and Mary only at the Vineyard, Papa, Mama, Annie Kate and the “betrothed" and some of the younger children at Watson’s Bay, South Head. James goes to the Murrumbidgee. A propos, what think you of Captain Sturt having set out on an expedition over land ostensibly to Port Phillip, but many think to South Australia, and to the new city of Adelaide to re-visit Lake Alexandria, the termination of his former adventurous journey? Perhaps it is a very secret

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expedition. Mrs. Sturt continues to keep Varroville. She is a very pleasing person. The Packages by the Kinnear seem to have come out in excellent order. Seventeen are now in the “Old Barn." Those entrusted to the Germans went to Camden with them, as did the five cases of plants from Laddige [Lodige]. We have sent Captain Mallard fruit and William has written to him. Remember us to all friends, T.H.S., Mr. Bigge, Mr. Davidson and whoever else, etc. I have written on a small sheet of paper, not having larger at hand. It will plague you to read my letter. Emmeline is quite well and unites her affectionate wishes and love with those of, my dear dear Edward,
Your ever affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur.

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Sunday January 27, 1839.
6 o’clock.

My dearest William:

This is my first attempt at letter writing since my long illness, and I have the great satisfaction of acquainting you that in the last week I have gained strength very perceptibly to myself, and evident to those around me, for which blessing I hope I am sufficiently thankful to the Almighty. You may believe we were so pleased to hear from our kind friend Mr. Anderson of your safe return to Camden. Mr. A. did not arrive until nearly dark on Friday evening, having stopped with Mr Holt at Liverpool. Elizabeth and little Bill had on the same evening gone to Lyndhurst intending to return last evening. We conclude she was prevented from doing so by a sudden storm which visited us slightly but appeared to pass on to Sydney with some violence. Whether she may return this evening (being Sunday) or not until tomorrow remains to be seen. I need not tell you who will have witnessed the sad effects of the excessive hot days we have had!! I was, however comforted to learn from Mr. A. that you found things so generally satisfactory at Richlands and particularly gratified at the amiable arrangements you have been enabled to make with Mr. Young. I was quite solaced to hear of it.

And now what have I to tell you? Dear Emmeline is well and I hope she will return benefitted by a little change and a chat with her sister, Bill also, who has had many relapses and was much reduced, but I hope the enemy is conquered at length. I have had a visit from Sir George and Lady Gipps, a very kind one. We are invited to dine at the Government House on Saturday next. Lady G. in her note [blank space] to expect I shall feel equal to come but expresses her wishes that I might. We have had frequent communications with the Vineyard. Maria is getting quite better and is in excellent spirits, saw Mr. Anderson who went over yesterday morning and some hours after his return he received a note from Mr. Betts to say the Plate subscribed as a small tribute of gratitude from a few friends was at Mr. Forrests and ready to be presented to him and wished to know if he would receive it there. To Mr. Forrest’s he proceeded and there received the grateful testimonial of a few friends. He seemed most gratified. He brought the box in the chaise here. It is a very handsome tea and coffee service very massy and in very good taste. Major Smythe called yesterday

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with Miss Meyrick. He was kindly conveying her back to school. Mr. and Mrs. Tingcombe also called. I was much pleased with Mrs. T. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell also walked over in the evening and we had an agreeable chat of an hour or two. Mr. C. subscribed to the Plate.

And now, my dear son, have exhausted my gossiping vein, and tired my fingers and I fear your patience. We have no further intelligence of dear James than that with which you are acquainted. You will be pleased to hear that the cottage is nearly ready for the accommodation of him and Emily, and I conclude myself, dear William
Your affectionate mother,
E. MacArthur

[Transcribed by Barbara Manchester for the State Library of New South Wales]