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A Complete Account of the Settlement at Port Jackson

by Watkin Tench · English · Gutenberg #3534 · 407,510 chars · public domain (US)

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Title: A Complete Account of the Settlement at Port Jackson

Author: Watkin Tench


        
Release date: May 8, 2006 [eBook #3534]

Language: English

Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/3534

Credits: Produced by Col Choat and Stuart Kidd


*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK A COMPLETE ACCOUNT OF THE SETTLEMENT AT PORT JACKSON ***




Produced by Col Choat and Stuart Kidd




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A COMPLETE ACCOUNT OF THE SETTLEMENT AT PORT JACKSON

by Watkin Tench





PREFACE




When it is recollected how much has been written to describe the Settlement
of New South Wales, it seems necessary if not to offer an apology, yet to
assign a reason, for an additional publication.

The Author embarked in the fleet which sailed to found the establishment at
Botany Bay. He shortly after published a Narrative of the Proceedings and
State of the Colony, brought up to the beginning of July, 1788, which
was well received, and passed through three editions. This could not
but inspire both confidence and gratitude; but gratitude, would be badly
manifested were he on the presumption of former favour to lay claim
to present indulgence. He resumes the subject in the humble hope of
communicating information, and increasing knowledge, of the country, which
he describes.

He resided at Port Jackson nearly four years: from the 20th of January,
1788, until the 18th of December, 1791. To an active and contemplative
mind, a new country is an inexhaustible source of curiosity and
speculation. It was the author's custom not only to note daily occurrences,
and to inspect and record the progression of improvement; but also, when
not prevented by military duties, to penetrate the surrounding country in
different directions, in order to examine its nature, and ascertain its
relative geographical situations.

The greatest part of the work is inevitably composed of those materials
which a journal supplies; but wherever reflections could be introduced
without fastidiousness and parade, he has not scrupled to indulge them, in
common with every other deviation which the strictness of narrative would
allow.

When this publication was nearly ready for the press; and when many of
the opinions which it records had been declared, fresh accounts from Port
Jackson were received. To the state of a country, where so many anxious
trying hours of his life have passed, the author cannot feel indifferent.
If by any sudden revolution of the laws of nature; or by any fortunate
discovery of those on the spot, it has really become that fertile and
prosperous land, which some represent it to be, he begs permission to add
his voice to the general congratulation. He rejoices at its success: but
it is only justice to himself and those with whom he acted to declare, that
they feel no cause of reproach that so complete and happy an alteration did
not take place at an earlier period.





CHAPTER I.



A Retrospect of the State of the Colony of Port Jackson, on the Date of my
former Narrative, in July, 1788.


Previous to commencing any farther account of the subject, which I am about
to treat, such a retrospection of the circumstances and situation of the
settlement, at the conclusion of my former Narrative, as shall lay its
state before the reader, seems necessary, in order to connect the present
with the past.

The departure of the first fleet of ships for Europe, on the 14th of July,
1788, had been long impatiently expected; and had filled us with anxiety,
to communicate to our friends an account of our situation; describing the
progress of improvement, and the probability of success, or failure, in
our enterprise. That men should judge very oppositely on so doubtful and
precarious an event, will hardly surprise.

Such relations could contain little besides the sanguineness of hope, and
the enumeration of hardships and difficulties, which former accounts had
not led us to expect. Since our disembarkation in the preceding January,
the efforts of every one had been unremittingly exerted, to deposit the
public stores in a state of shelter and security, and to erect habitations
for ourselves. We were eager to escape from tents, where a fold of canvas,
only, interposed to check the vertic beams of the sun in summer, and the
chilling blasts of the south in winter. A markee pitched, in our finest
season, on an English lawn; or a transient view of those gay camps, near
the metropolis, which so many remember, naturally draws forth careless and
unmeaning exclamations of rapture, which attach ideas of pleasure only, to
this part of a soldier's life. But an encampment amidst the rocks and wilds
of a new country, aggravated by the miseries of bad diet, and incessant
toil, will find few admirers.

Nor were our exertions less unsuccessful than they were laborious. Under
wretched covers of thatch lay our provisions and stores, exposed to
destruction from every flash of lightning, and every spark of fire. A few
of the convicts had got into huts; but almost all the officers, and the
whole of the soldiery, were still in tents.

In such a situation, where knowledge of the mechanic arts afforded the
surest recommendation to notice, it may be easily conceived, that attention
to the parade duty of the troops, gradually diminished. Now were to be
seen officers and soldiers not "trailing the puissant pike" but felling the
ponderous gum-tree, or breaking the stubborn clod. And though "the broad
falchion did not in a ploughshare end" the possession of a spade, a
wheelbarrow, or a dunghill, was more coveted than the most refulgent arms
in which heroism ever dazzled. Those hours, which in other countries are
devoted to martial acquirements, were here consumed in the labours of the
sawpit, the forge and the quarry*.


[* "The Swedish prisoners, taken at the battle of Pultowa, were transported
by the Czar Peter to the most remote parts of Siberia, with a view to
civilize the natives of the country, and teach them the arts the Swedes
possessed. In this hopeless situation, all traces of discipline and
subordination, between the different ranks, were quickly obliterated. The
soldiers, who were husbandmen and artificers, found out their superiority,
and assumed it: the officers became their servants." VOLTAIRE.]


Of the two ships of war, the 'Sirius' and 'Supply', the latter was
incessantly employed in transporting troops, convicts, and stores, to
Norfolk Island; and the 'Sirius' in preparing for a voyage to some port,
where provisions for our use might be purchased, the expected supply from
England not having arrived. It is but justice to the officers and men of
both these ships to add, that, on all occasions, they fully shared every
hardship and fatigue with those on shore.

On the convicts the burden fell yet heavier: necessity compelled us to
allot to them the most slavish and laborious employments. Those operations,
which in other countries are performed by the brute creation, were here
effected by the exertions of men: but this ought not to be considered
a grievance; because they had always been taught to expect it, as the
inevitable consequence of their offences against society. Severity was
rarely exercised on them; and justice was administered without partiality
or discrimination. Their ration of provisions, except in being debarred
from an allowance of spirits, was equal to that which the marines received.
Under these circumstances I record with pleasure, that they behaved better
than had been predicted of them--to have expected sudden and complete
reformation of conduct, were romantic and chimerical.

Our cultivation of the land was yet in its infancy. We had hitherto tried
only the country contiguous to Sydney. Here the governor had established
a government-farm; at the head of which a competent person of his own
household was placed, with convicts to work under him. Almost the whole of
the officers likewise accepted of small tracts of ground, for the purpose
of raising grain and vegetables: but experience proved to us, that the soil
would produce neither without manure; and as this was not to be procured,
our vigour soon slackened; and most of the farms (among which was the one
belonging to government) were successively abandoned.

With the natives we were very little more acquainted than on our arrival
in the country. Our intercourse with them was neither frequent or cordial.
They seemed studiously to avoid us, either from fear, jealousy, or hatred.
When they met with unarmed stragglers, they sometimes killed, and sometimes
wounded them. I confess that, in common with many others, I was inclined
to attribute this conduct, to a spirit of malignant levity. But a farther
acquaintance with them, founded on several instances of their humanity and
generosity, which shall be noticed in their proper places, has entirely
reversed my opinion; and led me to conclude, that the unprovoked outrages
committed upon them, by unprincipled individuals among us, caused the
evils we had experienced. To prevent them from being plundered of their
fishing-tackle and weapons of war, a proclamation was issued, forbidding
their sale among us; but it was not attended with the good effect which was
hoped for from it.

During this period, notwithstanding the want of fresh provisions and
vegetables, and almost constant exposure to the vicissitudes of a variable
climate, disease rarely attacked us; and the number of deaths, was too
inconsiderable to deserve mention.

Norfolk Island had been taken possession of, by a party detached for that
purpose, early after our arrival. Few accounts of it had yet reached us.
And here I beg leave to observe, that as I can speak of this island only
from the relations of others, never having myself been there, I shall in
every part of this work mention it as sparingly as possible. And this more
especially, as it seems probable, that some of those gentlemen, who from
accurate knowledge, and long residence on it, are qualified to write its
history, will oblige the world with such a publication.




CHAPTER II.



Transactions of the Colony from the sailing of the First Fleet in July,
1788, to the Close of that Year.


It was impossible to behold without emotion the departure of the ships. On
their speedy arrival in England perhaps hinged our fate; by hastening our
supplies to us.

On the 20th of July, the 'Supply' sailed for Norfolk Island, and returned
to us on the 26th of August; bringing no material news, except that the
soil was found to suit grain, and other seeds, which had been sown in it,
and that a species of flax-plant was discovered to grow spontaneously on
the island.

A survey of the harbour of Port Jackson was now undertaken, in order to
compute the number of canoes, and inhabitants, which it might contain:
sixty-seven canoes, and 147 people were counted. No estimate, however, of
even tolerable accuracy, can be drawn from so imperfect a datum; though it
was perhaps the best in our power to acquire.

In July and August, we experienced more inclement tempestuous weather
than had been observed at any former period of equal duration. And yet
it deserves to be remarked, in honour of the climate, that, although our
number of people exceeded 900, not a single death happened in the latter
month.

The dread of want in a country destitute of natural resource is ever
peculiarly terrible. We had long turned our eyes with impatience towards
the sea, cheered by the hope of seeing supplies from England approach. But
none arriving, on the 2d of October the 'Sirius' sailed for the Cape of
Good Hope, with directions to purchase provisions there, for the use of our
garrison.

A new settlement, named by the governor Rose Hill, 16 miles inland, was
established on the 3d of November, the soil here being judged better
than that around Sydney. A small redoubt was thrown up, and a captain's
detachment posted in it, to protect the convicts who were employed to
cultivate the ground.

The two last of the transports left us for England on the 19th of November,
intending to make their passage by Cape Horn. There now remained with us
only the 'Supply'. Sequestered and cut off as we were from the rest of
civilized nature, their absence carried the effect of desolation. About
this time a convict, of the name of Daly, was hanged, for a burglary:
this culprit, who was a notorious thief and impostor, was the author of a
discovery of a gold mine, a few months before: a composition resembling
ore mingled with earth, which he pretended to have brought from it, he
produced. After a number of attendant circumstances, too ludicrous and
contemptible to relate, which befell a party, who were sent under his
guidance to explore this second Peru, he at last confessed, that he had
broken up an old pair of buckles, and mixed the pieces with sand and stone;
and on assaying the composition, the brass was detected. The fate of this
fellow I should not deem worth recording, did it not lead to the following
observation, that the utmost circumspection is necessary to prevent
imposition, in those who give accounts of what they see in unknown
countries. We found the convicts particularly happy in fertility of
invention, and exaggerated descriptions. Hence large fresh water rivers,
valuable ores, and quarries of limestone, chalk, and marble, were daily
proclaimed soon after we had landed. At first we hearkened with avidity
to such accounts; but perpetual disappointments taught us to listen with
caution, and to believe from demonstration only.

Unabated animosity continued to prevail between the natives and us:
in addition to former losses, a soldier and several convicts suddenly
disappeared, and were never afterwards heard of. Three convicts were also
wounded, and one killed by them, near Botany Bay: similar to the vindictive
spirit which Mr. Cook found to exist among their countrymen at Endeavour
River, they more than once attempted to set fire to combustible matter, in
order to annoy us. Early on the morning of the 18th of December, word was
brought that they were assembled in force, near the brick-kilns, which
stand but a mile from the town of Sydney. The terror of those who brought
the first intelligence magnified the number to two thousand; a second
messenger diminished it to four hundred. A detachment, under the command
of an officer was ordered to march immediately, and reconnoitre them. The
officer soon returned, and reported, that about fifty Indians had appeared
at the brick-kilns; but upon the convicts, who were at work there, pointing
their spades and shovels at them, in the manner of guns, they had fled into
the woods.

Tired of this state of petty warfare and endless uncertainty, the governor
at length determined to adopt a decisive measure, by capturing some of
them, and retaining them by force; which we supposed would either inflame
the rest to signal vengeance, in which case we should know the worst, and
provide accordingly: or else it would induce an intercourse, by the report
which our prisoners would make of the mildness and indulgence with which we
used them. And farther, it promised to unveil the cause of their mysterious
conduct, by putting us in possession of their reasons for harassing and
destroying our people, in the manner I have related. Boats were accordingly
ordered to be got ready, and every preparation made, which could lead to
the attainment of our object.

But as this subject deserves to be particularly detailed, I shall,
notwithstanding its being just within the period of time which this chapter
professes to comprise, allot it a separate place, in the beginning of the
next.

Nor can I close this part of my work without congratulating both the reader
and the author. New matter now presents itself. A considerable part of the
foregoing chapters had been related before, either by others or myself.
I was however, unavoidably compelled to insert it, in order to preserve
unbroken that chain of detail, and perspicuity of arrangement, at which
books professing to convey information should especially aim.




CHAPTER III.



Transactions of the Colony, from the Commencement of the Year 1789, until
the End of March.


Pursuant to his resolution, the governor on the 31st of December sent two
boats, under the command of Lieutenant Ball of the 'Supply', and Lieutenant
George Johnston of the marines, down the harbour, with directions to those
officers to seize and carry off some of the natives. The boats proceeded to
Manly Cove, where several Indians were seen standing on the beach, who
were enticed by courteous behaviour and a few presents to enter into
conversation. A proper opportunity being presented, our people rushed
in among them, and seized two men: the rest fled; but the cries of the
captives soon brought them back, with many others, to their rescue: and so
desperate were their struggles, that, in spite of every effort on our side,
only one of them was secured; the other effected his escape. The boats put
off without delay; and an attack from the shore instantly commenced: they
threw spears, stones, firebrands, and whatever else presented itself, at
the boats; nor did they retreat, agreeable to their former custom, until
many musquets were fired over them.

The prisoner was now fastened by ropes to the thwarts of the boat; and when
he saw himself irretrievably disparted from his countrymen, set up the
most piercing and lamentable cries of distress. His grief, however, soon
diminished: he accepted and ate of some broiled fish which was given to
him, and sullenly submitted to his destiny.

When the news of his arrival at Sydney was announced, I went with every
other person to see him: he appeared to be about thirty years old,
not tall, but robustly made; and of a countenance which, under happier
circumstances, I thought would display manliness and sensibility; his
agitation was excessive, and the clamourous crowds who flocked around
him did not contribute to lessen it. Curiosity and observation seemed,
nevertheless, not to have wholly deserted him; he shewed the effect of
novelty upon ignorance; he wondered at all he saw: though broken and
interrupted with dismay, his voice was soft and musical, when its natural
tone could be heard; and he readily pronounced with tolerable accuracy
the names of things which were taught him. To our ladies he quickly became
extraordinarily courteous, a sure sign that his terror was wearing off.

Every blandishment was used to soothe him, and it had its effect. As he
was entering the governor's house, some one touched a small bell which hung
over the door: he started with horror and astonishment; but in a moment
after was reconciled to the noise, and laughed at the cause of his
perturbation. When pictures were shown to him, he knew directly those which
represented the human figure: among others, a very large handsome print of
her royal highness the Dutchess of Cumberland being produced, he called out
'woman', a name by which we had just before taught him to call the female
convicts. Plates of birds and beasts were also laid before him; and many
people were led to believe, that such as he spoke about and pointed to
were known to him. But this must have been an erroneous conjecture, for the
elephant, rhinoceros, and several others, which we must have discovered did
they exist in the country, were of the number. Again, on the other hand,
those he did not point out, were equally unknown to him.

His curiosity here being satiated, we took him to a large brick house,
which was building for the governor's residence: being about to enter, he
cast up his eyes, and seeing some people leaning out of a window on
the first story, he exclaimed aloud, and testified the most extravagant
surprise. Nothing here was observed to fix his attention so strongly as
some tame fowls, who were feeding near him: our dogs also he particularly
noticed; but seemed more fearful than fond of them.

He dined at a side-table at the governor's; and ate heartily of fish and
ducks, which he first cooled. Bread and salt meat he smelled at, but would
not taste: all our liquors he treated in the same manner, and could drink
nothing but water. On being shown that he was not to wipe his hands on the
chair which he sat upon, he used a towel which was gave to him, with great
cleanliness and decency.

In the afternoon his hair was closely cut, his head combed, and his beard
shaved; but he would not submit to these operations until he had seen them
performed on another person, when he readily acquiesced. His hair, as might
be supposed, was filled with vermin, whose destruction seemed to afford him
great triumph; nay, either revenge, or pleasure, prompted him to eat them!
but on our expressing disgust and abhorrence he left it off.

To this succeeded his immersion in a tub of water and soap, where he was
completely washed and scrubbed from head to foot; after which a shirt,
a jacket, and a pair of trousers, were put upon him. Some part of this
ablution I had the honour to perform, in order that I might ascertain the
real colour of the skin of these people. My observation then was (and it
has since been confirmed in a thousand other instances) that they are as
black as the lighter cast of the African negroes.

Many unsuccessful attempts were made to learn his name; the governor
therefore called him Manly, from the cove in which he was captured: this
cove had received its name from the manly undaunted behaviour of a party of
natives seen there, on our taking possession of the country.

To prevent his escape, a handcuff with a rope attached to it, was fastened
around his left wrist, which at first highly delighted him; he called it
'bengadee' (or ornament), but his delight changed to rage and hatred when
he discovered its use. His supper he cooked himself: some fish were given
to him for this purpose, which, without any previous preparation whatever,
he threw carelessly on the fire, and when they became warm took them up,
and first rubbed off the scales, peeled the outside with his teeth, and ate
it; afterwards he gutted them, and laying them again on the fire, completed
the dressing, and ate them.

A convict was selected to sleep with him, and to attend him wherever he
might go. When he went with his keeper into his apartment he appeared very
restless and uneasy while a light was kept in; but on its extinction, he
immediately lay down and composed himself.

Sullenness and dejection strongly marked his countenance on the
following morning; to amuse him, he was taken around the camp, and to the
observatory: casting his eyes to the opposite shore from the point where
he stood, and seeing the smoke of fire lighted by his countrymen, he looked
earnestly at it, and sighing deeply two or three times, uttered the word
'gweeun' (fire).

His loss of spirits had not, however, the effect of impairing his appetite;
eight fish, each weighing about a pound, constituted his breakfast, which
he dressed as before. When he had finished his repast, he turned his back
to the fire in a musing posture, and crept so close to it, that his shirt
was caught by the flame; luckily his keeper soon extinguished it; but he
was so terrified at the accident, that he was with difficulty persuaded to
put on a second.

1st. January, 1789. To-day being new-year's-day, most of the officers were
invited to the governor's table: Manly dined heartily on fish and roasted
pork; he was seated on a chest near a window, out of which, when he had
done eating, he would have thrown his plate, had he not been prevented:
during dinner-time a band of music played in an adjoining apartment; and
after the cloth was removed, one of the company sang in a very soft
and superior style; but the powers of melody were lost on Manly, which
disappointed our expectations, as he had before shown pleasure and
readiness in imitating our tunes. Stretched out on his chest, and putting
his hat under his head, he fell asleep.

To convince his countrymen that he had received no injury from us, the
governor took him in a boat down the harbour, that they might see and
converse with him: when the boat arrived, and lay at a little distance
from the beach, several Indians who had retired at her approach, on seeing
Manly, returned: he was greatly affected, and shed tears. At length they
began to converse. Our ignorance of the language prevented us from knowing
much of what passed; it was, however, easily understood that his friends
asked him why he did not jump overboard, and rejoin them. He only sighed,
and pointed to the fetter on his leg, by which he was bound.

In going down the harbour he had described the names by which they
distinguish its numerous creeks and headlands: he was now often heard to
repeat that of 'Weerong' (Sydney Cove), which was doubtless to inform his
countrymen of the place of his captivity; and perhaps invite them to rescue
him. By this time his gloom was chased away, and he parted from his friends
without testifying reluctance. His vivacity and good humour continued all
the evening, and produced so good an effect on his appetite, that he ate
for supper two kangaroo rats, each of the size of a moderate rabbit, and in
addition not less than three pounds of fish.

Two days after he was taken on a similar excursion; but to our surprise the
natives kept aloof, and would neither approach the shore, or discourse with
their countryman: we could get no explanation of this difficulty, which
seemed to affect us more than it did him. Uncourteous as they were, he
performed to them an act of attentive benevolence; seeing a basket made
of bark, used by them to carry water, he conveyed into it two hawks and
another bird, which the people in the boat had shot, and carefully covering
them over, left them as a present to his old friends. But indeed the
gentleness and humanity of his disposition frequently displayed themselves:
when our children, stimulated by wanton curiosity, used to flock around
him, he never failed to fondle them, and, if he were eating at the time,
constantly offered them the choicest part of his fare.

February, 1789. His reserve, from want of confidence in us, continued
gradually to wear away: he told us his name, and Manly gave place to
Arabanoo. Bread he began to relish; and tea he drank with avidity:
strong liquors he would never taste, turning from them with disgust and
abhorrence. Our dogs and cats had ceased to be objects of fear, and were
become his greatest pets, and constant companions at table. One of our
chief amusements, after the cloth was removed, was to make him repeat the
names of things in his language, which he never hesitated to do with
the utmost alacrity, correcting our pronunciation when erroneous. Much
information relating to the customs and manners of his country was also
gained from him: but as this subject will be separately and amply treated,
I shall not anticipate myself by partially touching on it here.

On the 2nd of February died Captain John Shea of the marines, after a
lingering illness: he was interred on the following day, with the customary
military honours, amidst the regret of all who knew him. In consequence of
his decease, appointments for the promotion of the oldest officer of
each subordinate rank were signed by the major commandant of the marine
battalion, until the pleasure of the lords of the admiralty should be
notified.*

[*These appointments were confirmed by the admiralty.]

On the 17th of February the 'Supply' again sailed for Norfolk Island. The
governor went down the harbour in her, and carried Arabanoo with him, who
was observed to go on board with distrust and reluctance; when he found she
was under sail, every effort was tried without success to exhilarate him;
at length, an opportunity being presented, he plunged overboard, and struck
out for the nearest shore: believing that those who were left behind would
fire at him, he attempted to dive, at which he was known to be very expert:
but this was attended with a difficulty which he had not foreseen: his
clothes proved so buoyant, that he was unable to get more than his head
under water: a boat was immediately dispatched after him, and picked him
up, though not without struggles and resistance on his side. When brought
on board, he appeared neither afraid or ashamed of what he had done, but
sat apart, melancholy and dispirited, and continued so until he saw the
governor and his other friends descend into a boat, and heard himself
called upon to accompany them: he sprang forward, and his cheerfulness and
alacrity of temper immediately returned, and lasted during the remainder of
the day. The dread of being carried away, on an element of whose boundary
he could form no conception, joined to the uncertainty of our intention
towards him, unquestionably caused him to act as he did.

One of the principal effects which we had supposed the seizure and
captivity of Arabanoo would produce, seemed yet at as great a distance as
ever; the natives neither manifested signs of increased hostility on his
account, or attempted to ask any explanation of our conduct through the
medium of their countryman who was in our possession, and who they knew was
treated with no farther harshness than in being detained among us. Their
forbearance of open and determined attack upon can be accounted for only
by recollecting their knowledge of our numbers, and their dread of our
fire-arms: that they wanted not sufficient provocation to do so, will
appear from what I am about to relate.

March, 1789. Sixteen convicts left their work at the brick-kilns without
leave, and marched to Botany Bay, with a design to attack the natives,
and to plunder them of their fishing-tackle and spears: they had armed
themselves with their working tools and large clubs. When they arrived near
the bay, a body of Indians, who had probably seen them set out, and had
penetrated their intention from experience, suddenly fell upon them. Our
heroes were immediately routed, and separately endeavoured to effect their
escape by any means which were left. In their flight one was killed, and
seven were wounded, for the most part very severely: those who had the
good fortune to outstrip their comrades and arrive in camp, first gave the
alarm; and a detachment of marines, under an officer, was ordered to march
to their relief. The officer arrived too late to repel the Indians; but
he brought in the body of the man that was killed, and put an end to
the pursuit. The governor was justly incensed at what had happened, and
instituted the most rigorous scrutiny into the cause which had produced it.
At first the convicts were unanimous in affirming, that they were quietly
picking sweet-tea*, when they were without provocation assaulted by the
natives, with whom they had no wish to quarrel. Some of them, however,
more irresolute than the rest, at last disclosed the purpose for which the
expedition had been undertaken; and the whole were ordered to be severely
flogged: Arabanoo was present at the infliction of the punishment; and was
made to comprehend the cause and the necessity of it; but he displayed on
the occasion symptoms of disgust and terror only.

[*A vegetable creeper found growing on the rocks, which yields, on infusion
in hot water, a sweet astringent taste, whence it derives its name: to
its virtues the healthy state of the soldiery and convicts must be greatly
attributed. It was drank universally.]

On the 24th instant the 'Supply' arrived from Norfolk Island, and Lord Howe
Island, bringing from the latter place three turtles.

An awful and terrible example of justice took place towards the close of
this month, which I record with regret, but which it would be disingenuous
to suppress. Six marines, the flower of our battalion, were hanged by the
public executioner, on the sentence of a criminal court, composed entirely
of their own officers, for having at various times robbed the public stores
of flour, meat, spirits, tobacco, and many other articles.




CHAPTER IV.



Transactions of the Colony in April and May, 1789.


An extraordinary calamity was now observed among the natives. Repeated
accounts brought by our boats of finding bodies of the Indians in all the
coves and inlets of the harbour, caused the gentlemen of our hospital
to procure some of them for the purposes of examination and anatomy. On
inspection, it appeared that all the parties had died a natural death:
pustules, similar to those occasioned by the small pox, were thickly spread
on the bodies; but how a disease, to which our former observations had led
us to suppose them strangers, could at once have introduced itself, and
have spread so widely, seemed inexplicable.* Whatever might be the cause,
the existence of the malady could no longer be doubted. Intelligence
was brought that an Indian family lay sick in a neighbouring cove: the
governor, attended by Arabanoo, and a surgeon, went in a boat immediately
to the spot. Here they found an old man stretched before a few lighted
sticks, and a boy of nine or ten years old pouring water on his head, from
a shell which he held in his hand: near them lay a female child dead, and
a little farther off, its unfortunate mother: the body of the woman shewed
that famine, superadded to disease, had occasioned her death: eruptions
covered the poor boy from head to foot; and the old man was so reduced,
that he was with difficulty got into the boat. Their situation rendered
them incapable of escape, and they quietly submitted to be led away.
Arabanoo, contrary to his usual character, seemed at first unwilling to
render them any assistance; but his shyness soon wore off, and he treated
them with the kindest attention. Nor would he leave the place until he had
buried the corpse of the child: that of the woman he did not see from its
situation; and as his countrymen did not point it out, the governor ordered
that it should not be shown to him. He scooped a grave in the sand with his
hands, of no peculiarity of shape, which he lined completely with grass,
and put the body into it, covering it also with grass; and then he filled
up the hole, and raised over it a small mound with the earth which had
been removed. Here the ceremony ended, unaccompanied by any invocation to a
superior being, or any attendant circumstance whence an inference of their
religious opinions could be deduced.

[*No solution of this difficulty had been given when I left the country, in
December, 1791. I can, therefore, only propose queries for the ingenuity of
others to exercise itself upon: is it a disease indigenous to the country?
Did the French ships under Monsieur de Peyrouse introduce it? Let it be
remembered that they had now been departed more than a year; and we had
never heard of its existence on board of them. Had it travelled across the
continent from its western shore, where Dampier and other European voyagers
had formerly landed? Was it introduced by Mr. Cook? Did we give it birth
here? No person among us had been afflicted with the disorder since we had
quitted the Cape of Good Hope, seventeen months before. It is true, that
our surgeons had brought out variolous matter in bottles; but to infer
that it was produced from this cause were a supposition so wild as to be
unworthy of consideration.]


An uninhabited house, near the hospital, was allotted for their reception,
and a cradle prepared for each of them. By the encouragement of Arabanoo,
who assured them of protection, and the soothing behaviour of our medical
gentlemen, they became at once reconciled to us, and looked happy and
grateful at the change of their situation. Sickness and hunger had,
however, so much exhausted the old man, that little hope was entertained
of his recovery. As he pointed frequently to his throat, at the instance of
Arabanoo, he tried to wash it with a gargle which was given to him; but
the obstructed, tender state of the part rendered it impracticable. 'Bado,
bado' (water), was his cry: when brought to him, he drank largely at
intervals of it. He was equally importunate for fire, being seized with
shivering fits; and one was kindled. Fish were produced, to tempt him to
eat; but he turned away his head, with signs of loathing. Nanbaree (the
boy), on the contrary, no sooner saw them than he leaped from his cradle,
and eagerly seizing them, began to cook them. A warm bath being prepared,
they were immersed in it; and after being thoroughly cleansed, they had
clean shirts put on them, and were again laid in bed.

The old man lived but a few hours. He bore the pangs of dissolution with
patient composure; and though he was sensible to the last moment, expired
almost without a groan. Nanbaree appeared quite unmoved at the event;
and surveyed the corpse of his father without emotion, simply exclaiming,
'boee' (dead). This surprised us; as the tenderness and anxiety of the old
man about the boy had been very moving. Although barely able to raise his
head, while so much strength was left to him, he kept looking into his
child's cradle; he patted him gently on the bosom; and, with dying eyes,
seemed to recommend him to our humanity and protection. Nanbaree was
adopted by Mr. White, surgeon-general of the settlement, and became
henceforth one of his family.

Arabanoo had no sooner heard of the death of his countryman, than he
hastened to inter him. I was present at the ceremony, in company with the
governor, captain Ball, and two or three other persons. It differed, by
the accounts of those who were present at the funeral of the girl, in no
respect from what had passed there in the morning, except that the grave
was dug by a convict. But I was informed, that when intelligence of the
death reached Arabanoo, he expressed himself with doubt whether he should
bury, or burn the body; and seemed solicitous to ascertain which ceremony
would be most gratifying to the governor.

Indeed, Arabanoo's behaviour, during the whole of the transactions of
this day, was so strongly marked by affection to his countryman, and by
confidence in us, that the governor resolved to free him from all farther
restraint, and at once to trust to his generosity, and the impression which
our treatment of him might have made, for his future residence among us:
the fetter was accordingly taken off his leg.

In the evening, captain Ball and I crossed the harbour, and buried the
corpse of the woman before mentioned.

Distress continued to drive them in upon us. Two more natives, one of them
a young man, and the other his sister, a girl of fourteen years old,
were brought in by the governor's boat, in a most deplorable state of
wretchedness from the smallpox. The sympathy and affection of Arabanoo,
which had appeared languid in the instance of Nanbaree and his father, here
manifested themselves immediately. We conjectured that a difference of
the tribes to which they belonged might cause the preference; but nothing
afterwards happened to strengthen or confirm such a supposition. The young
man died at the end of three days: the girl recovered, and was received
as an inmate, with great kindness, in the family of Mrs Johnson,
the clergyman's wife. Her name was Booron; but from our mistake of
pronunciation she acquired that of Abaroo, by which she was generally
known, and by which she will always be called in this work. She shewed, at
the death of her brother more feeling than Nanbaree had witnessed for the
loss of his father. When she found him dying, she crept to his side, and
lay by him until forced by the cold to retire. No exclamation, or other
sign of grief, however, escaped her for what had happened.

May 1789. At sunset, on the evening of the 2d instant, the arrival the
'Sirius', Captain Hunter, from the Cape of Good Hope, was proclaimed, and
diffused universal joy and congratulation. The day of famine was at least
procrastinated by the supply of flour and salt provisions she brought us.

The 'Sirius' had made her passage to the Cape of Good Hope, by the route of
Cape Horn, in exactly thirteen weeks. Her highest latitude was 57 degrees
10 minutes south, where the weather proved intolerably cold. Ice, in great
quantity, was seen for many days; and in the middle of December (which is
correspondent to the middle of June, in our hemisphere), water froze in
open casks upon deck, in the moderate latitude of 44 degrees.

They were very kindly treated by the Dutch governor, and amply supplied by
the merchants at the Cape, where they remained seven weeks. Their passage
back was effected by Van Diemen's Land, near which, and close under
Tasman's Head, they were in the utmost peril of being wrecked.

In this long run, which had extended round the circle, they had always
determined their longitude, to the greatest nicety, by distances taken
between the sun and moon, or between the moon and a star. But it falls
to the lot of very few ships to possess such indefatigable and accurate
observers as Captain Hunter, and Mr. (now Captain) Bradley, the first
lieutenant of the 'Sirius'.

I feel assured, that I have no reader who will not join in regretting the
premature loss of Arabanoo, who died of the smallpox on the 18th instant,
after languishing in it six days. From some imperfect marks and indents
on his face, we were inclined to believe that he had passed this dreaded
disorder. Even when the first symptoms of sickness seized him, we continued
willing to hope that they proceeded from a different cause. But at length
the disease burst forth with irresistible fury. It were superfluous to say,
that nothing which medical skill and unremitting attention could perform,
were left unexerted to mitigate his sufferings, and prolong a life,
which humanity and affectionate concern towards his sick compatriots,
unfortunately shortened.

During his sickness he reposed entire confidence in us. Although a stranger
to medicine, and nauseating the taste of it, he swallowed with patient
submission innumerable drugs,* which the hope of relief induced us to
administer to him. The governor, who particularly regarded him, caused him
to be buried in his own garden, and attended the funeral in person.

[*Very different had been his conduct on a former occasion of a similar
kind. Soon after he was brought among us he was seized with a diarrhoea,
for which he could by no persuasion be induced to swallow any of our
prescriptions. After many ineffectual trials to deceive, or overcome him,
it was at length determined to let him pursue his own course, and to watch
if he should apply for relief to any of the productions of the country. He
was in consequence observed to dig fern-root, and to chew it. Whether the
disorder had passed its crisis, or whether the fern-root effected a cure, I
know not; but it is certain that he became speedily well.

**The regard was reciprocal. His excellency had been ill but a short time
before, when Arabanoo had testified the utmost solicitude for his case and
recovery. It is probable that he acquired, on this occasion, just notions
of the benefit to be derived from medical assistance. A doctor is, among
them, a person of consequence. It is certain that he latterly estimated our
professional gentlemen very highly.]

The character of Arabanoo, as far as we had developed it, was distinguished
by a portion of gravity and steadiness, which our subsequent acquaintance
with his countrymen by no means led us to conclude a national
characteristic. In that daring, enterprising frame of mind, which, when
combined with genius, constitutes the leader of a horde of savages, or the
ruler of a people, boasting the power of discrimination and the resistance
of ambition, he was certainly surpassed by some of his successors,
who afterwards lived among us. His countenance was thoughtful, but not
animated: his fidelity and gratitude, particularly to his friend the
governor, were constant and undeviating, and deserve to be recorded.
Although of a gentle and placable temper, we early discovered that he was
impatient of indignity, and allowed of no superiority on our part. He knew
that he was in our power; but the independence of his mind never forsook
him. If the slightest insult were offered to him, he would return it with
interest. At retaliation of merriment he was often happy; and frequently
turned the laugh against his antagonist. He did not want docility;
but either from the difficulty of acquiring our language, from the
unskillfulness of his teachers, or from some natural defect, his progress
in learning it was not equal to what we had expected. For the last three
or four weeks of his life, hardly any restraint was laid upon his
inclinations: so that had he meditated escape, he might easily have
effected it. He was, perhaps, the only native who was ever attached to us
from choice; and who did not prefer a precarious subsistence among wilds
and precipices, to the comforts of a civilized system.

By his death, the scheme which had invited his capture was utterly
defeated. Of five natives who had been brought among us, three had perished
from a cause which, though unavoidable, it was impossible to explain to a
people, who would condescend to enter into no intercourse with us. The same
suspicious dread of our approach, and the same scenes of vengeance acted on
unfortunate stragglers, continued to prevail.




CHAPTER V.



Transactions of the Colony until the Close of the Year 1789.


The anniversary of his majesty's birth-day was celebrated, as heretofore,
at the government-house, with loyal festivity. In the evening, the play of
'The Recruiting Officer' was performed by a party of convicts, and honoured
by the presence of his excellency, and the officers of the garrison.
That every opportunity of escape from the dreariness and dejection of
our situation should be eagerly embraced, will not be wondered at. The
exhilarating effect of a splendid theatre is well known: and I am not
ashamed to confess, that the proper distribution of three or four yards of
stained paper, and a dozen farthing candles stuck around the mud walls of a
convict-hut, failed not to diffuse general complacency on the countenances
of sixty persons, of various descriptions, who were assembled to applaud
the representation. Some of the actors acquitted themselves with great
spirit, and received the praises of the audience: a prologue and an
epilogue, written by one of the performers, were also spoken on the
occasion; which, although not worth inserting here, contained some
tolerable allusions to the situation of the parties, and the novelty of a
stage-representation in New South Wales.

Broken Bay, which was supposed to be completely explored, became again an
object of research. On the sixth instant, the governor, accompanied by a
large party in two boats, proceeded thither. Here they again wandered over
piles of mis-shapen desolation, contemplating scenes of wild solitude,
whose unvarying appearance renders them incapable of affording either
novelty or gratification. But when they had given over the hope of
farther discovery, by pursuing the windings of an inlet, which, from
its appearance, was supposed to be a short creek, they suddenly found
themselves at the entrance of a fresh water river, up which they proceeded
twenty miles, in a westerly direction; and would have farther prosecuted
their research, had not a failure of provisions obliged them to return.
This river they described to be of considerable breadth, and of great
depth; but its banks had hitherto presented nothing better than a
counterpart of the rocks and precipices which surround Broken Bay.

June, 1789. A second expedition, to ascertain its course, was undertaken
by his excellency, who now penetrated (measuring by the bed of the river)
between 60 and 70 miles, when the farther progress of the boats was stopped
by a fall. The water in every part was found to be fresh and good. Of the
adjoining country, the opinions of those who had inspected it (of which
number I was not) were so various, that I shall decline to record them.
Some saw a rich and beautiful country; and others were so unfortunate as to
discover little else than large tracts of low land, covered with reeds, and
rank with the inundations of the stream, by which they had been recently
covered. All parties, however, agreed, that the rocky, impenetrable
country, seen on the first excursion, had ended nearly about the place
whence the boats had then turned back. Close to the fall stands a very
beautiful hill, which our adventurers mounted, and enjoyed from it an
extensive prospect. Potatoes, maize, and garden seeds of various kinds
were put into the earth, by the governor's order, on different parts
of Richmond-hill, which was announced to be its name. The latitude of
Richmond-hill, as observed by captain Hunter, was settled at 33 degrees 36
minutes south.

Here also the river received the name of Hawkesbury, in honour of the noble
lord who bears that title.

Natives were found on the banks in several parts, many of whom were
labouring under the smallpox. They did not attempt to commit hostilities
against the boats; but on the contrary shewed every sign of welcome and
friendship to the strangers.

At this period, I was unluckily invested with the command of the outpost at
Rose Hill, which prevented me from being in the list of discoverers of
the Hawkesbury. Stimulated, however, by a desire of acquiring a further
knowledge of the country, on the 26th instant, accompanied by Mr. Arndell,
assistant surgeon of the settlement, Mr. Lowes, surgeon's mate of the
'Sirius', two marines, and a convict, I left the redoubt at day-break,
pointing our march to a hill, distant five miles, in a westerly or inland
direction, which commands a view of the great chain of mountains, called
Carmarthen hills, extending from north to south farther than the eye can
reach. Here we paused, surveying "the wild abyss; pondering our voyage."
Before us lay the trackless immeasurable desert, in awful silence. At
length, after consultation, we determined to steer west and by north, by
compass, the make of the land in that quarter indicating the existence of a
river. We continued to march all day through a country untrodden before by
an European foot. Save that a melancholy crow now and then flew croaking
over head, or a kangaroo was seen to bound at a distance, the picture of
solitude was complete and undisturbed. At four o'clock in the afternoon we
halted near a small pond of water, where we took up our residence for the
night, lighted a fire, and prepared to cook our supper: that was, to broil
over a couple of ramrods a few slices of salt pork, and a crow which we had
shot.

At daylight we renewed our peregrination; and in an hour after we found
ourselves on the banks of a river, nearly as broad as the Thames at
Putney, and apparently of great depth, the current running very slowly in a
northerly direction. Vast flocks of wild ducks were swimming in the stream;
but after being once fired at, they grew so shy that we could not get near
them a second time. Nothing is more certain than that the sound of a gun
had never before been heard within many miles of this spot.

We proceeded upwards, by a slow pace, through reeds, thickets, and a
thousand other obstacles, which impeded our progress, over coarse sandy
ground, which had been recently inundated, though full forty feet above the
present level of the river. Traces of the natives appeared at every step,
sometimes in their hunting-huts, which consist of nothing more than a
large piece of bark, bent in the middle, and open at both ends, exactly
resembling two cards, set up to form an acute angle; sometimes in marks on
trees which they had climbed; or in squirrel-traps*; or, which surprised us
more, from being new, in decoys for the purpose of ensnaring birds. These
are formed of underwood and reeds, long and narrow, shaped like a mound
raised over a grave; with a small aperture at one end for admission of
the prey; and a grate made of sticks at the other: the bird enters at the
aperture, seeing before him the light of the grate, between the bars of
which, he vainly endeavours to thrust himself, until taken. Most of these
decoys were full of feathers, chiefly those of quails, which shewed their
utility. We also met with two old damaged canoes hauled up on the beach,
which differed in no wise from those found on the sea coast.

[*A squirrel-trap is a cavity of considerable depth, formed by art, in the
body of a tree. When the Indians in their hunting parties set fire to
the surrounding country (which is a very common custom) the squirrels,
opossums, and other animals, who live in trees, flee for refuge into these
holes, whence they are easily dislodged and taken. The natives always pitch
on a part of a tree for this purpose, which has been perforated by a worm,
which indicates that the wood is in an unsound state, and will readily
yield to their efforts. If the rudeness and imperfection of the tools with
which they work be considered, it must be confessed to be an operation of
great toil and difficulty.]


Having remained out three days, we returned to our quarters at Rose-hill,
with the pleasing intelligence of our discovery. The country we had passed
through we found tolerably plain, and little encumbered with underwood,
except near the river side. It is entirely covered with the same sorts of
trees as grow near Sydney; and in some places grass springs up luxuriantly;
other places are quite bare of it. The soil is various: in many parts a
stiff and clay, covered with small pebbles; in other places, of a soft
loamy nature: but invariably, in every part near the river, it is a coarse
sterile sand. Our observations on it (particularly mine, from carrying
the compass by which we steered) were not so numerous as might have been
wished. But, certainly, if the qualities of it be such as to deserve future
cultivation, no impediment of surface, but that of cutting down and burning
the trees, exists, to prevent its being tilled.

To this river the governor gave the name of Nepean. The distance of the
part of the river which we first hit upon from the sea coast, is about 39
miles, in a direct line almost due west.

A survey of Botany Bay took place in September. I was of the party, with
several others officers. We continued nine days in the bay, during which
time, the relative position of every part of it, to the extent of more than
thirty miles, following the windings of the shore, was ascertained, and
laid down on paper, by captain Hunter.

So complete an opportunity of forming a judgment, enables me to speak
decisively of a place, which has often engaged conversation and excited
reflection. Variety of opinions here disappeared. I shall, therefore,
transcribe literally what I wrote in my journal, on my return from the
expedition. "We were unanimously of opinion, that had not the nautical part
of Mr. Cook's description, in which we include the latitude and longitude
of the bay, been so accurately laid down, there would exist the utmost
reason to believe, that those who have described the contiguous country,
had never seen it. On the sides of the harbour, a line of sea coast
more than thirty miles long, we did not find 200 acres which could be
cultivated."

September, 1789. But all our attention was not directed to explore inlets,
and toll for discovery. Our internal tranquillity was still more important.
To repress the inroads of depredation; and to secure to honest industry the
reward of its labour, had become matter of the most serious consideration;
hardly a night passing without the commission of robbery. Many expedients
were devised; and the governor at length determined to select from the
convicts, a certain number of persons, who were meant to be of the fairest
character, for the purpose of being formed into a nightly-watch, for
the preservation of public and private property, under the following
regulations, which, as the first system of police in a colony, so
peculiarly constituted as ours, may perhaps prove not uninteresting.


I. A night-watch, consisting of 12 persons, divided into four parties, is
appointed, and fully authorized to patrol at all hours in the night; and
to visit such places as may be deemed necessary, for the discovery of any
felony, trespass, or misdemeanor; and for the apprehending and securing
for examination, any person or persons who may appear to them concerned
therein, either by entrance into any suspected hut or dwelling, or by such
other measure as may seem to them expedient.

II. Those parts in which the convicts reside are to be divided and
numbered, in the following manner. The convict huts on the eastern side of
the stream, and the public farm, are to be the first division. Those at
the brick-kilns, and the detached parties in the different private farms in
that district, are to be the second division. Those on the western side of
the stream, as far as the line which separates the district of the women
from the men, to be the third division. The huts occupied from that line to
the hospital, and from there to the observatory, to be the fourth division.

III. Each of these districts or divisions is to be under the particular
inspection of one person, who may be judged qualified to inform himself of
the actual residence of each individual in his district; as well as of his
business, connections, and acquaintances.

IV. Cognizance is to be taken of such convicts as may sell or barter their
slops or provisions; and also of such as are addicted to gaming for either
of the aforesaid articles, who are to be reported to the judge advocate.

V. Any soldier or seaman found straggling after the beating of the tattoo;
or who may be found in a convict's hut, is to be detained; and information
of him immediately given to the nearest guard.

VI. Any person who may be robbed during the night, is to give immediate
information thereof to the watch of his district, who, on the instant of
application being made, shall use the most effectual means to trace out
the offender, or offenders, so that he, she, or they, may be brought to
justice.

VII. The watch of each district is to be under the direction of one person,
who will be named for that purpose. All the patrols are placed under the
immediate inspection of Herbert Keeling. They are never to receive any
fee, gratuity, or reward, from any individual whatever, to engage their
exertions in the execution of the above trust. Nor will they receive any
stipulated encouragement for the conviction of any offender. But their
diligence and good behaviour will be rewarded by the governor. And for this
purpose their conduct will be strictly attended to, by those who are placed
in authority over them.

VIII. The night-watch is to go out as soon as the tattoo ceases beating: to
return to their huts when the working drum beats in the morning: and are
to make their report to the judge advocate, through Herbert Keeling, of all
robberies and misdemeanors which may have been committed. Any assistance
the patrols may require, will be given to them, on applying to the officer
commanding the nearest guard; and by the civil power, if necessary; for
which last, application is to be made to the provost martial.

IX. Any negligence on the part of those who shall be employed on this duty,
will be punished with the utmost rigour of the law.

X. The night-watch is to consist of 12 persons.


Every political code, either from a defect of its constitution, or from the
corruptness of those who are entrusted to execute it, will be found less
perfect in practice than speculation had promised itself. It were, however,
prejudice to deny, that for some time following the institution of this
patrol, nightly depredations became less frequent and alarming: the petty
villains, at least, were restrained by it. And to keep even a garden
unravaged was now become a subject of the deepest concern.

For in October our weekly allowance of provisions, which had hitherto been
eight pounds of flour, five pounds of salt pork, three pints of pease, six
ounces of butter, was reduced to five pounds five ounces of flour, three
pounds five ounces of pork, and two pints of pease.

In order to lessen the consumption from the public stores, the 'Supply' was
ordered to touch at Lord Howe Island, in her way from Norfolk Island, to
try if turtle could be procured, for the purpose of being publicly served
in lieu of salt provisions. But she brought back only three turtles, which
were distributed in the garrison.

December, 1789. At the request of his excellency, lieutenant Dawes of the
marines, accompanied by lieutenant Johnston and Mr. Lowes, about this
time undertook the attempt to cross the Nepean river, and to penetrate to
Carmarthen mountains. Having discovered a ford in the river, they passed
it, and proceeded in a westerly direction. But they found the country so
rugged, and the difficulty of walking so excessive, that in three days they
were able to penetrate only fifteen miles, and were therefore obliged to
relinquish their object. This party, at the time they turned back, were
farther inland than any other persons ever were before or since, being
fifty-four miles in a direct line from the sea coast when on the summit
of mount Twiss, a hill so named by them, and which bounded their
peregrination.

Intercourse with the natives, for the purpose of knowing whether or not the
country possessed any resources, by which life might be prolonged*, as
well as on other accounts, becoming every day more desirable, the governor
resolved to make prisoners of two more of them.

[*One of the convicts, a negro, had twice eloped, with an intention of
establishing himself in the society of the natives, with a wish to adopt
their customs and to live with them: but he was always repulsed by them;
and compelled to return to us from hunger and wretchedness.]


Boats properly provided, under the command of lieutenant Bradley of the
'Sirius', were accordingly dispatched on this service; and completely
succeeded in trepanning and carrying off, without opposition, two fine
young men, who were safely landed among us at Sydney.

Nanbaree and Abaroo welcomed them on shore; calling them immediately by
their names, Baneelon (Bennelong), and Colbee. But they seemed little
disposed to receive the congratulations, or repose confidence in the
assurances of their friends. The same scenes of awkward wonder and
impatient constraint, which had attended the introduction of Arabanoo,
succeeded. Baneelon we judged to be about twenty-six years old, of good
stature, and stoutly made, with a bold intrepid countenance, which bespoke
defiance and revenge. Colbee was perhaps near thirty, of a less sullen
aspect than his comrade, considerably shorter, and not so robustly framed,
though better fitted for purposes of activity. They had both evidently
had the smallpox; indeed Colbee's face was very thickly imprinted with the
marks of it.

Positive orders were issued by the governor to treat them indulgently, and
guard them strictly; notwithstanding which Colbee contrived to effect his
escape in about a week, with a small iron ring round his leg. Had those
appointed to watch them been a moment later, his companion would have
contrived to accompany him.

But Baneelon, though haughty, knew how to temporize. He quickly threw
off all reserve; and pretended, nay, at particular moments, perhaps felt
satisfaction in his new state. Unlike poor Arabanoo, he became at once fond
of our viands, and would drink the strongest liquors, not simply without
reluctance, but with eager marks of delight and enjoyment. He was the only
native we ever knew who immediately shewed a fondness for spirits: Colbee
would not at first touch them. Nor was the effect of wine or brandy upon
him more perceptible than an equal quantity would have produced upon one of
us, although fermented liquor was new to him.

In his eating, he was alike compliant. When a turtle was shown to Arabanoo,
he would not allow it to be a fish, and could not be induced to eat of it.
Baneelon also denied it to be a fish; but no common councilman in Europe
could do more justice than he did to a very fine one, that the 'Supply' had
brought from Lord Howe Island, and which was served up at the governor's
table on Christmas Day.

His powers of mind were certainly far above mediocrity. He acquired
knowledge, both of our manners and language, faster than his predecessor
had done. He willingly communicated information; sang, danced, and capered,
told us all the customs of his country, and all the details of his family
economy. Love and war seemed his favourite pursuits; in both of which he
had suffered severely. His head was disfigured by several scars; a spear
had passed through his arm, and another through his leg. Half of one of his
thumbs was carried away; and the mark of a wound appeared on the back of
his hand. The cause and attendant circumstances of all these disasters,
except one, he related to us.

"But the wound on the back of your hand, Baneelon! How did you get that?"

He laughed, and owned that it was received in carrying off a lady of
another tribe by force. "I was dragging her away. She cried aloud, and
stuck her teeth in me."

"And what did you do then?"

"I knocked her down, and beat her till she was insensible, and covered with
blood. Then..."

Whenever he recounted his battles, "poised his lance, and showed how fields
were won", the most violent exclamations of rage and vengeance against his
competitors in arms, those of the tribe called Cameeragal in particular,
would burst from him. And he never failed at such times to solicit the
governor to accompany him, with a body of soldiers, in order that he might
exterminate this hated name.

Although I call him only Baneelon, he had besides several appellations, and
for a while he chose to be distinguished by that of Wolarawaree. Again, as
a mark of affection and respect to the governor, he conferred on him the
name of Wolarawaree, and sometimes called him 'Beenena' (father), adopting
to himself the name of governor. This interchange we found is a constant
symbol of friendship among them*. In a word, his temper seemed pliant, and
his relish of our society so great, that hardly any one judged he would
attempt to quit us, were the means of escape put within his reach.
Nevertheless it was thought proper to continue a watch over him.

[*It is observable that this custom prevails as a pledge of friendship
and kindness all over Asia, and has also been mentioned by Captain Cook to
exist among the natives in the South Sea Islands.]




CHAPTER VI.



Transactions of the Colony, from the Beginning of the Year 1790 until the
End of May following.


Our impatience of news from Europe strongly marked the commencement of the
year. We had now been two years in the country, and thirty-two months from
England, in which long period no supplies, except what had been procured at
the Cape of Good Hope by the 'Sirius', had reached us. From intelligence of
our friends and connections we had been entirely cut off, no communication
whatever having passed with our native country since the 13th of May 1787,
the day of our departure from Portsmouth. Famine besides was approaching
with gigantic strides, and gloom and dejection overspread every
countenance. Men abandoned themselves to the most desponding reflections,
and adopted the most extravagant conjectures.

Still we were on the tiptoe of expectation. If thunder broke at a distance,
or a fowling-piece of louder than ordinary report resounded in the woods,
"a gun from a ship" was echoed on every side, and nothing but hurry
and agitation prevailed. For eighteen months after we had landed in the
country, a party of marines used to go weekly to Botany Bay, to see whether
any vessel, ignorant of our removal to Port Jackson, might be arrived
there. But a better plan was now devised, on the suggestion of captain
Hunter. A party of seamen were fixed on a high bluff, called the
South-head, at the entrance of the harbour, on which a flag was ordered to
be hoisted, whenever a ship might appear, which should serve as a direction
to her, and as a signal of approach to us. Every officer stepped forward
to volunteer a service which promised to be so replete with beneficial
consequences. But the zeal and alacrity of captain Hunter, and our brethren
of the 'Sirius', rendered superfluous all assistance or co-operation.

Here on the summit of the hill, every morning from daylight until the sun
sunk, did we sweep the horizon, in hope of seeing a sail. At every fleeting
speck which arose from the bosom of the sea, the heart bounded, and the
telescope was lifted to the eye. If a ship appeared here, we knew she must
be bound to us; for on the shores of this vast ocean (the largest in the
world) we were the only community which possessed the art of navigation,
and languished for intercourse with civilized society.

To say that we were disappointed and shocked, would very inadequately
describe our sensations. But the misery and horror of such a situation
cannot be imparted, even by those who have suffered under it.

March, 1790. Vigorous measures were become indispensable. The governor
therefore, early in February, ordered the 'Sirius' to prepare for a voyage
to China; and a farther retrenchment of our ration, we were given to
understand, would take place on her sailing.

But the 'Sirius' was destined not to reach China. Previously to her
intended departure on that voyage, she was ordered, in concert with the
'Supply', to convey Major Ross, with a large detachment of marines, and
more than two hundred convicts, to Norfolk Island, it being hoped that
such a division of our numbers would increase the means of subsistence, by
diversified exertions. She sailed on the 6th of March. And on the 27th of
the same month, the following order was issued from headquarters.


Parole--Honour.

Counter sign--Example.

The expected supply of provisions not having arrived, makes it necessary
to reduce the present ration. And the commissary is directed to issue, from
the 1st of April, the under-mentioned allowance, to every person in the
settlement without distinction.

Four pounds of flour, two pounds and a half of salt pork, and one pound and
a half of rice, per week.


On the 5th of April news was brought, that the flag on the South-head was
hoisted. Less emotion was created by the news than might be expected. Every
one coldly said to his neighbour, "the 'Sirius' and 'Supply' are returned
from Norfolk Island." To satisfy myself that the flag was really flying, I
went to the observatory, and looked for it through the large astronomical
telescope, when I plainly saw it. But I was immediately convinced that
it was not to announce the arrival of ships from England; for I could see
nobody near the flagstaff except one solitary being, who kept strolling
around, unmoved by what he saw. I well knew how different an effect the
sight of strange ships would produce.

April, 1790. The governor, however, determined to go down the harbour, and
I begged permission to accompany him. Having turned a point about half way
down, we were surprised to see a boat, which was known to belong to the
'Supply', rowing towards us. On nearer approach, I saw captain Ball make
an extraordinary motion with his hand, which too plainly indicated that
something disastrous had happened; and I could not help turning to the
governor, near whom I sat, and saying, "Sir, prepare yourself for bad
news." A few minutes changed doubt into certainty; and to our unspeakable
consternation we learned, that the 'Sirius' had been wrecked on Norfolk
Island, on the 19th of February. Happily, however, Captain Hunter, and
every other person belonging to her, were saved.

Dismay was painted on every countenance, when the tidings were proclaimed
at Sydney. The most distracting apprehensions were entertained All hopes
were now concentred in the little 'Supply'.

At six o'clock in the evening, all the officers of the garrison, both
civil and military, were summoned to meet the governor in council, when
the nature of our situation was fully discussed and an account of
the provisions yet remaining in store laid before the council by the
commissary. This account stated, that on the present ration* the public
stores contained salt meat sufficient to serve until the 2nd of July, flour
until the 20th of August, and rice, or pease in lieu of it, until the 1st
of October.

[*See the ration of the 27th of March, a few pages back.]

Several regulations for the more effectual preservation of gardens,
and other private property, were proposed, and adopted and after some
interchange of opinion, the following ration was decreed to commence
immediately, a vigorous exertion to prolong existence, or the chance of
relief, being all now left to us.

     Two pounds of pork, two pounds and a half of flour,
     two pounds of rice, or a quart of pease, per week,
     to every grown person, and to every child of more
     than eighteen months old.

     To every child under eighteen months old, the same
     quantity of rice and flour, and one pound of pork.**

[**When the age of this provision is recollected, its inadequacy will more
strikingly appear. The pork and rice were brought with us from England. The
pork had been salted between three and four years, and every grain of rice
was a moving body, from the inhabitants lodged within it. We soon left off
boiling the pork, as it had become so old and dry, that it shrunk one half
in its dimensions when so dressed. Our usual method of cooking it was to
cut off the daily morsel, and toast it on a fork before the fire, catching
the drops which fell on a slice of bread, or in a saucer of rice. Our flour
was the remnant of what was brought from the Cape, by the 'Sirius', and was
good. Instead of baking it, the soldiers and convicts used to boil it up
with greens.]

The immediate departure of the 'Supply', for Batavia, was also determined.

Nor did our zeal stop here. The governor being resolved to employ all
the boats, public and private, in procuring fish--which was intended to
be served in lieu of salt meat--all the officers, civil and military,
including the clergyman, and the surgeons of the hospital, made the
voluntary offer, in addition to their other duties, to go alternately every
night in these boats, in order to see that every exertion was made, and
that all the fish which might be caught was deposited with the commissary.

The best marksmen of the marines and convicts were also selected, and put
under the command of a trusty sergeant, with directions to range the
woods in search of kangaroos, which were ordered, when brought in, to be
delivered to the commissary.

And as it was judged that the inevitable fatigues of shooting and fishing
could not be supported on the common ration, a small additional quantity
of flour and pork was appropriated to the use of the game-keepers; and each
fisherman, who had been out during the preceding night had, on his return
in the morning, a pound of uncleaned fish allowed for his breakfast.

On the 17th instant, the 'Supply', captain Ball, sailed for Batavia. We
followed her with anxious eyes until she was no longer visible. Truly did
we say to her "In te omnis domus inclinata recumbit." We were, however,
consoled by reflecting, that every thing which zeal, fortitude, and
seamanship, could produce, was concentred in her commander.

Our bosoms consequently became less perturbed; and all our labour and
attention were turned on one object--the procuring of food. "Pride, pomp,
and circumstance of glorious war" were no more.

The distress of the lower classes for clothes was almost equal to their
other wants. The stores had been long exhausted, and winter was at
hand. Nothing more ludicrous can be conceived than the expedients of
substituting, shifting, and patching, which ingenuity devised, to eke out
wretchedness, and preserve the remains of decency. The superior dexterity
of the women was particularly conspicuous. Many a guard have I seen mount,
in which the number of soldiers without shoes exceeded that which had yet
preserved remnants of leather.

Nor was another part of our domestic economy less whimsical. If a lucky
man, who had knocked down a dinner with his gun, or caught a fish
by angling from the rocks, invited a neighbour to dine with him, the
invitation always ran, "bring your own bread." Even at the governor's
table, this custom was constantly observed. Every man when he sat down
pulled his bread out of his pocket, and laid it by his plate.

The insufficiency of our ration soon diminished our execution of labour.
Both soldiers and convicts pleaded such loss of strength, as to find
themselves unable to perform their accustomed tasks. The hours of public
work were accordingly shortened or, rather, every man was ordered to do as
much as his strength would permit, and every other possible indulgence was
granted.

May, 1790. In proportion, however, as lenity and mitigation were extended
to inability and helplessness, inasmuch was the most rigorous justice
executed on disturbers of the public tranquillity. Persons detected in
robbing gardens, or pilfering provisions, were never screened because, as
every man could possess, by his utmost exertions, but a bare sufficiency to
preserve life*, he who deprived his neighbour of that little, drove him
to desperation. No new laws for the punishment of theft were enacted;
but persons of all descriptions were publicly warned, that the severest
penalties, which the existing law in its greatest latitude would authorise,
should be inflicted on offenders. The following sentence of a court
of justice, of which I was a member, on a convict detected in a garden
stealing potatoes, will illustrate the subject. He was ordered to receive
three hundred lashes immediately, to be chained for six months to two other
criminals, who were thus fettered for former offences, and to have his
allowance of flour stopped for six months. So that during the operation of
the sentence, two pounds of pork, and two pounds of rice (or in lieu of the
latter, a quart of pease) per week, constituted his whole subsistence. Such
was the melancholy length to which we were compelled to stretch our penal
system.

[*Its preservation in some cases was found impracticable. Three or four
instances of persons who perished from want have been related to me. One
only, however, fell within my own observation. I was passing the provision
store, when a man, with a wild haggard countenance, who had just received
his daily pittance to carry home, came out. His faltering gait, and eager
devouring eye, led me to watch him, and he had not proceeded ten steps
before he fell. I ordered him to be carried to the hospital, where, when
he arrived, he was found dead. On opening the body, the cause of death was
pronounced to be inanition.]

Farther to contribute to the detection of villainy, a proclamation,
offering a reward of sixty pounds of flour, more tempting than the ore of
Peru or Potosi, was promised to any one who should apprehend, and bring to
justice, a robber of garden ground.

Our friend Baneelon, during this season of scarcity, was as well taken care
of as our desperate circumstances would allow. We knew not how to keep
him, and yet were unwilling to part with him. Had he penetrated our state,
perhaps he might have given his countrymen such a description of our
diminished numbers, and diminished strength, as would have emboldened
them to become more troublesome. Every expedient was used to keep him in
ignorance. His allowance was regularly received by the governor's servant,
like that of any other person, but the ration of a week was insufficient
to have kept him for a day. The deficiency was supplied by fish whenever
it could be procured, and a little Indian corn, which had been reserved
was ground and appropriated to his use. In spite of all these aids, want of
food has been known to make him furious and often melancholy.

There is reason to believe that he had long meditated his escape, which he
effected in the night of the 3rd instant. About two o'clock in the morning,
he pretended illness, and awaking the servant who lay in the room with him,
begged to go down stairs. The other attended him without suspicion of his
design; and Baneelon no sooner found himself in a backyard, than he nimbly
leaped over a slight paling, and bade us adieu.

The following public order was issued within the date of this chapter, and
is too pleasing a proof that universal depravity did not prevail among the
convicts, to be omitted.


The governor, in consequence of the unremitted good behaviour and
meritorious conduct of John Irving, is pleased to remit the remainder of
the term for which he was sentenced to transportation. He is therefore to
be considered as restored to all those rights and privileges, which had
been suspended in consequence of the sentence of the law. And as such,
he is hereby appointed to act as an assistant to the surgeon at Norfolk
Island.




CHAPTER VII



Transactions of the Colony in June, July, and August, 1790.


At length the clouds of misfortune began to separate, and on the evening
of the 3rd of June, the joyful cry of "the flag's up" resounded in every
direction.

I was sitting in my hut, musing on our fate, when a confused clamour in
the street drew my attention. I opened my door, and saw several women
with children in their arms running to and fro with distracted looks,
congratulating each other, and kissing their infants with the most
passionate and extravagant marks of fondness. I needed no more; but
instantly started out, and ran to a hill, where, by the assistance of
a pocket glass, my hopes were realized. My next door neighbour, a
brother-officer, was with me, but we could not speak. We wrung each other
by the hand, with eyes and hearts overflowing.

Finding that the governor intended to go immediately in his boat down the
harbour, I begged to be of his party.

As we proceeded, the object of our hopes soon appeared: a large ship,
with English colours flying, working in, between the heads which form the
entrance of the harbour. The tumultuous state of our minds represented
her in danger; and we were in agony. Soon after, the governor, having
ascertained what she was, left us, and stepped into a fishing boat to
return to Sydney. The weather was wet and tempestuous but the body is
delicate only when the soul is at ease. We pushed through wind and rain,
the anxiety of our sensations every moment redoubling. At last we read the
word 'London' on her stern. "Pull away, my lads! She is from Old England! A
few strokes more, and we shall be aboard! Hurrah for a bellyfull, and news
from our friends!" Such were our exhortations to the boat's crew.

A few minutes completed our wishes, and we found ourselves on board
the 'Lady Juliana' transport, with two hundred and twenty-five of our
countrywomen whom crime or misfortune had condemned to exile. We learned
that they had been almost eleven months on their passage, having left
Plymouth, into which port they had put in July, 1789. We continued to ask
a thousand questions on a breath. Stimulated by curiosity, they inquired in
turn; but the right of being first answered, we thought, lay on our side.
"Letters, letters!" was the cry. They were produced, and torn open in
trembling agitation. News burst upon us like meridian splendor on a blind
man. We were overwhelmed with it: public, private, general, and particular.
Nor was it until some days had elapsed, that we were able to methodise it,
or reduce it into form. We now heard for the first time of our sovereign's
illness, and his happy restoration to health. The French revolution of
1789, with all the attendant circumstances of that wonderful and unexpected
event, succeeded to amaze us*. Now, too, the disaster which had befallen
the 'Guardian', and the liberal and enlarged plan on which she had been
stored and fitted out by government for our use, was promulged. It served
also, in some measure, to account why we had not sooner heard from England.
For had not the 'Guardian' struck on an island of ice, she would probably
have reached us three months before, and in this case have prevented the
loss of the 'Sirius', although she had sailed from England three months
after the 'Lady Juliana'.

[*These words bring to my mind an anecdote, which, though rather out of
place, I shall offer no apology for introducing. Among other inquiries, we
were anxious to learn whether M. de la Peyrouse, with the two ships under
his command, bound on a voyage of discovery, had arrived in France. We
heard with concern, that no accounts of them had been received, since they
had left Botany Bay, in March, 1788. I remember when they were at that
place, one day conversing with Monsieur de la Peyrouse, about the best
method of treating savage people, "Sir," said he, "I have sometimes been
compelled to commit hostilities upon them, but never without suffering the
most poignant regret; for, independent of my own feelings on the occasion,
his Majesty's (Louis XVI) last words to me, de sa propre bouche, when I
took leave of him at Versailles, were: 'It is my express injunction, that
you always treat the Indian nations with kindness and humanity. Gratify
their wishes, and never, but in a case of the last necessity, when
self-defence requires it, shed human blood.' Are these the sentiments of a
tyrant, of a sanguinary and perfidious man?"

A general thanksgiving to Almighty God, for his Majesty's recovery, and
happy restoration to his family and subjects, was ordered to be offered up
on the following Wednesday, when all public labour was suspended; and every
person in the settlement attended at church, where a sermon, suited to an
occasion, at once so full of gratitude and solemnity, was preached by the
Reverend Richard Johnson, chaplain of the colony.

All the officers were afterwards entertained at dinner by the governor. And
in the evening, an address to his excellency, expressive of congratulation
and loyalty, was agreed upon; and in two days after was presented, and very
graciously received.

The following invitation to the non-commissioned officers and private
soldiers of the marine battalion, was also about this time published.


In consequence of the assurance that was given to the non-commissioned
officers and men belonging to the battalion of marines, on their embarking
for the service of this country, that such of them as should behave well,
would be allowed to quit the service, on their return to England; or be
discharged abroad, upon the relief taking place, and permitted to settle
in the country--His Majesty has been graciously pleased to direct the
following encouragement to be held up to such non-commissioned officers and
privates, as may be disposed to become settlers in this country, or in
any of the islands comprised within the government of the continent of
New South Wales, on the arrival of the corps raised and intended for the
service of this colony, and for their relief, viz:

To every non-commissioned officer, an allotment of one hundred and thirty
acres of land, if single, and of one hundred and fifty acres, if married.
To every private soldier, an allotment of eighty acres, if single, and of
one hundred acres if married; and also an allotment of ten acres for every
child, whether of a non-commissioned officer, or of a private soldier.
These allotments will be free of all fines, taxes, quit-rents, and other
acknowledgments, for the space of ten years; but after the expiration of
that period, will be subject to an annual quit-rent of one shilling for
every fifty acres.

His Majesty has likewise been farther pleased to signify his royal will and
pleasure, that a bounty of three pounds be offered to each non-commissioned
officer and soldier, who may be disposed to continue in this country, and
enlist in the corps appointed for the service of New South Wales; with a
farther assurance, that in case of a proper demeanour on their part, they
shall, after a farther service of five years, be entitled to double the
former portion of land, provided they then choose to become settlers in the
country, free of all taxes, fines, and quit-rents, for the space of fifteen
years; but after that time, to be subject to the beforementioned annual
quit-rent of one shilling for every fifty acres.

And as a farther encouragement to those men who may be desirous to become
settlers, and continue in the country, his Majesty has been likewise
pleased to direct, that every man shall, on being discharged, receive out
of the public store, a portion of clothing and provisions, sufficient
for his support for one year; together with a suitable quantity of seeds,
grain, etc. for the tillage of the land; and a portion of tools and
implements of agriculture, proper for their use. And whenever any man,
who may become a settler, can maintain, feed, and clothe, such number of
convicts as may be judged necessary by the governor, for the time being,
to assist him in clearing and cultivating the land, the service of such
convicts shall be assigned to him.


We were joyfully surprised on the 20th of the month to see another sail
enter the harbour. She proved to be the Justinian transport, commanded by
Captain Maitland, and our rapture was doubled on finding that she was
laden entirely with provisions for our use. Full allowance, and general
congratulation, immediately took place. This ship had left Falmouth on
the preceding 20th of January, and completed her passage exactly in five
months*. She had staid at Madeira one day, and four at Sao Tiago, from
which last place she had steered directly for New South Wales, neglecting
Rio de Janeiro on her right, and the Cape of Good Hope on her left; and
notwithstanding the immense tract of ocean she had passed, brought her crew
without sickness into harbour. When the novelty and boldness of such an
attempt shall be recollected, too much praise, on the spirit and activity
of Mr. Maitland, cannot be bestowed.

[*Accident only prevented her from making it in eighteen days less, for she
was then in sight of the harbour's mouth, when an unpropitious gale of wind
blew her off. Otherwise she would have reached us one day sooner than the
'Lady Juliana'. It is a curious circumstance, that these two ships had
sailed together from the river Thames, one bound to Port Jackson, and
the other bound to Jamaica. The Justinian carried her cargo to the last
mentioned place, landed it; and loaded afresh with sugars, which she
returned with, and delivered in London. She was then hired as a transport,
reladen, and sailed for New South Wales. Let it be remembered, that no
material accident had happened to either vessel. But what will not zeal and
diligence accomplish!]

Good fortune continued to befriend us. Before the end of the month, three
more transports, having on board two companies of the New South Wales
corps, arrived to add to our society. These ships also brought out a large
body of convicts, whose state and sufferings will be best estimated by the
following return.

     Names of     No. of people   No. of persons who died   No. landed sick
     Ships         embarked          on the passage       at Port Jackson

          -----------------------------------------------------------------
     Neptune           530                 163                  269

     Surprise          252                  42                  121

     Scarborough       256                  68                   96

          -----------------------------------------------------------------
                      1038                 273                  486

          -----------------------------------------------------------------

N.B. Of those landed sick, one hundred and twenty-four died in the hospital
at Sydney.


On our passage from England, which had lasted more than eight months and
with nearly an equal number of persons, only twenty-four had died, and
not thirty were landed sick. The difference can be accounted for, only by
comparing the manner in which each fleet was fitted out and conducted. With
us the provisions, served on board, were laid in by a contractor, who sent
a deputy to serve them out; and it became a part of duty for the officers
of the troops to inspect their quality, and to order that every one
received his just proportion. Whereas, in the fleet now arrived, the
distribution of provisions rested entirely with the masters of the
merchantmen, and the officers were expressly forbidden to interfere in any
shape farther about the convicts than to prevent their escape.

Seventeen pounds, in full of all expense, was the sum paid by the public
for the passage of each person. And this sum was certainly competent to
afford fair profit to the merchant who contracted. But there is reason
to believe, that some of those who were employed to act for him, violated
every principle of justice, and rioted on the spoils of misery, for want of
a controlling power to check their enormities. No doubt can be entertained,
that a humane and liberal government will interpose its authority, to
prevent the repetition of such flagitious conduct.

Although the convicts had landed from these ships with every mark of
meagre misery, yet it was soon seen, that a want of room, in which more
conveniences might have been stowed for their use, had not caused it.
Several of the masters of the transports immediately opened stores,
and exposed large quantities of goods to sale, which, though at most
extortionate prices, were eagerly bought up.

Such was the weakly state of the new corners, that for several weeks little
real benefit to the colony was derived from so great a nominal addition to
our number. However, as fast as they recovered, employment was immediately
assigned to them. The old hours of labour, which had been reduced in our
distress, were re-established, and the most vigorous measures adopted to
give prosperity to the settlement. New buildings were immediately planned,
and large tracts of ground, at Rose-hill, ordered to be cleared, and
prepared for cultivation. Some superintendents who had arrived in the
fleet, and were hired by government for the purpose of overlooking and
directing the convicts, were found extremely serviceable in accelerating
the progress of improvement.

July, 1790. This month was marked by nothing worth communication, except
a melancholy accident which befell a young gentleman of amiable character
(one of the midshipmen lately belonging to the 'Sirius') and two marines.
He was in a small boat, with three marines, in the harbour, when a whale
was seen near them. Sensible of their danger, they used every effort to
avoid the cause of it, by rowing in a contrary direction from that which
the fish seemed to take, but the monster suddenly arose close to them, and
nearly filled the boat with water. By exerting themselves, they baled her
out, and again steered from it. For some time it was not seen, and they
conceived themselves safe, when, rising immediately under the boat, it
lifted her to the height of many yards on its back, whence slipping off,
she dropped as from a precipice, and immediately filled and sunk. The
midshipman and one of the marines were sucked into the vortex which the
whale had made, and disappeared at once. The two other marines swam for
the nearest shore, but one only reached it, to recount the fate of his
companions.

August, 1790. In the beginning of this month, in company with Mr. Dawes and
Mr. Worgan, late surgeon of the 'Sirius', I undertook an expedition to
the southward and westward of Rose Hill, where the country had never been
explored. We remained out seven days, and penetrated to a considerable
distance in a S.S.W. direction, bounding our course at a remarkable hill,
to which, from its conical shape, we gave the name of Pyramid-hill. Except
the discovery of a river (which is unquestionably the Nepean near its
source) to which we gave the name of the Worgan, in honour of one of our
party, nothing very interesting was remarked.

Towards the end of the month, we made a second excursion to the north-west
of Rose Hill, when we again fell in with the Nepean, and traced it to
the spot where it had been first discovered by the party of which I was
a member, fourteen months before, examining the country as we went along.
Little doubt now subsisted that the Hawkesbury and Nepean were one river.

We undertook a third expedition soon after to Broken Bay, which place
we found had not been exaggerated in description, whether its capacious
harbour, or its desolate incultivable shores, be considered. On all these
excursions we brought away, in small bags, as many specimens of the soil
of the country we had passed through, as could be conveniently carried, in
order that by analysis its qualities might be ascertained.




CHAPTER VIII.



Transactions of the Colony in the Beginning of September, 1790.


The tremendous monster who had occasioned the unhappy catastrophe just
recorded was fated to be the cause of farther mischief to us.

On the 7th instant, Captain Nepean, of the New South Wales Corps, and Mr.
White, accompanied by little Nanbaree, and a party of men, went in a boat
to Manly Cove, intending to land there, and walk on to Broken Bay. On
drawing near the shore, a dead whale, in the most disgusting state of
putrefaction, was seen lying on the beach, and at least two hundred Indians
surrounding it, broiling the flesh on different fires, and feasting on
it with the most extravagant marks of greediness and rapture. As the boat
continued to approach, they were observed to fall into confusion and to
pick up their spears, on which our people lay upon their oars and Nanbaree
stepping forward, harangued them for some time, assuring them that we were
friends. Mr. White now called for Baneelon who, on hearing his name, came
forth, and entered into conversation. He was greatly emaciated, and so
far disfigured by a long beard, that our people not without difficulty
recognized their old acquaintance. His answering in broken English, and
inquiring for the governor, however, soon corrected their doubts. He seemed
quite friendly. And soon after Colbee came up, pointing to his leg, to show
that he had freed himself from the fetter which was upon him, when he had
escaped from us.

When Baneelon was told that the governor was not far off, he expressed
great joy, and declared that he would immediately go in search of him,
and if he found him not, would follow him to Sydney. "Have you brought any
hatchets with you?" cried he. Unluckily they had not any which they chose
to spare; but two or three shirts, some handkerchiefs, knives, and other
trifles, were given to them, and seemed to satisfy. Baneelon, willing
to instruct his countrymen, tried to put on a shirt, but managed it so
awkwardly, that a man of the name of M'Entire, the governor's gamekeeper,
was directed by Mr. White to assist him. This man, who was well known to
him, he positively forbade to approach, eyeing him ferociously, and with
every mark of horror and resentment. He was in consequence left to himself,
and the conversation proceeded as before. The length of his beard seemed
to annoy him much, and he expressed eager wishes to be shaved, asking
repeatedly for a razor. A pair of scissors was given to him, and he shewed
he had not forgotten how to use such an instrument, for he forthwith began
to clip his hair with it.

During this time, the women and children, to the number of more than fifty,
stood at a distance, and refused all invitations, which could be conveyed
by signs and gestures, to approach nearer. "Which of them is your old
favourite, Barangaroo, of whom you used to speak so often?"

"Oh," said he, "she is become the wife of Colbee! But I have got 'bulla
muree deein' (two large women) to compensate for her loss."

It was observed that he had received two wounds, in addition to his former
numerous ones, since he had left us; one of them from a spear, which had
passed through the fleshy part of his arm; and the other displayed itself
in a large scar above his left eye. They were both healed, and probably
were acquired in the conflict wherein he had asserted his pretensions to
the two ladies.

Nanbaree, all this while, though he continued to interrogate his
countrymen, and to interpret on both sides, shewed little desire to return
to their society, and stuck very close to his new friends. On being asked
the cause of their present meeting, Baneelon pointed to the whale, which
stunk immoderately, and Colbee made signals, that it was common among them
to cat until the stomach was so overladen as to occasion sickness.

Their demand of hatchets being re-iterated, notwithstanding our refusal,
they were asked why they had not brought with them some of their own? They
excused themselves by saying, that on an occasion of the present sort,
they always left them at home, and cut up the whale with the shell which is
affixed to the end of the throwing-stick.

Our party now thought it time to proceed on their original expedition, and
having taken leave of their sable friends, rowed to some distance, where
they landed, and set out for Broken Bay, ordering the coxswain of the boat,
in which they had come down, to go immediately and acquaint the governor
of all that had passed. When the natives saw that the boat was about to
depart, they crowded around her, and brought down, by way of present, three
or four great junks of the whale, and put them on board of her, the largest
of which, Baneelon expressly requested might be offered, in his name, to
the governor.

It happened that his excellency had this day gone to a landmark, which was
building on the South-head, near the flag-staff, to serve as a direction to
ships at sea, and the boat met him on his return to Sydney. Immediately on
receiving the intelligence, he hastened back to the South-head, and having
procured all the fire-arms which could be mustered there, consisting of
four muskets and a pistol, set out, attended by Mr. Collins and Lieutenant
Waterhouse of the navy.

When the boat reached Manly Cove, the natives were found still busily
employed around the whale. As they expressed not any consternation on
seeing us row to the beach, governor Phillip stepped out unarmed, and
attended by one seaman only, and called for Baneelon, who appeared,
but, notwithstanding his former eagerness, would not suffer the other
to approach him for several minutes. Gradually, however, he warmed
into friendship and frankness, and presently after Colbee came up. They
discoursed for some time, Baneelon expressing pleasure to see his old
acquaintance, and inquiring by name for every person whom he could
recollect at Sydney; and among others for a French cook, one of the
governor's servants, whom he had constantly made the butt of his ridicule,
by mimicking his voice, gait, and other peculiarities, all of which he
again went through with his wonted exactness and drollery. He asked also
particularly for a lady from whom he had once ventured to snatch a kiss;
and on being told that she was well, by way of proving that the token was
fresh in his remembrance, he kissed Lieutenant Waterhouse, and laughed
aloud. On his wounds being noticed, he coldly said, that he had received
them at Botany Bay, but went no farther into their history.

Hatchets still continued to be called for with redoubled eagerness,
which rather surprised us, as formerly they had always been accepted
with indifference. But Baneelon had probably demonstrated to them their
superiority over those of their own manufacturing. To appease their
importunity, the governor gave them a knife, some bread, pork, and other
articles, and promised that in two days he would return hither, and bring
with him hatchets to be distributed among them, which appeared to diffuse
general satisfaction.

Baneelon's love of wine has been mentioned; and the governor, to try
whether it still subsisted, uncorked a bottle, and poured out a glass of
it, which the other drank off with his former marks of relish and good
humour, giving for a toast, as he had been taught, "The King."

Our party now advanced from the beach but, perceiving many of the Indians
filing off to the right and left, so as in some measure to surround them,
they retreated gently to their old situation, which produced neither alarm
or offence. The others by degrees also resumed their former position. A
very fine barbed spear of uncommon size being seen by the governor, he
asked for it. But Baneelon, instead of complying with the request, took
it away, and laid it at some distance, and brought back a throwing-stick,
which he presented to his excellency.

Matters had proceeded in this friendly train for more than half an hour,
when a native, with a spear in his hand, came forward, and stopped at
the distance of between twenty and thirty yards from the place where the
governor, Mr. Collins, Lieutenant Waterhouse, and a seaman stood. His
excellency held out his hand, and called to him, advancing towards him at
the same time, Mr. Collins following close behind. He appeared to be a
man of middle age, short of stature, sturdy, and well set, seemingly a
stranger, and but little acquainted with Baneelon and Colbee. The nearer
the governor approached, the greater became the terror and agitation of the
Indian. To remove his fear, governor Phillip threw down a dirk, which
he wore at his side. The other, alarmed at the rattle of the dirk, and
probably misconstruing the action, instantly fixed his lance in his
throwing-stick*.

[*Such preparation is equal to what cocking a gun, and directing it at its
object, would be with us. To launch the spear, or to touch the trigger,
only remains.]

To retreat, his excellency now thought would be more dangerous than to
advance. He therefore cried out to the man, Weeeree, Weeree, (bad; you
are doing wrong) displaying at the same time, every token of amity and
confidence. The words had, however, hardly gone forth, when the Indian,
stepping back with one foot, aimed his lance with such force and dexterity,
that striking* the governor's right shoulder, just above the collar-bone,
the point glancing downward, came out at his back, having made a wound of
many inches long. The man was observed to keep his eye steadily fixed on
the lance until it struck its object, when he directly dashed into the
woods and was seen no more.

[*His excellency described the shock to me as similar to a violent blow,
with such energy was the weapon thrown.]


Instant confusion on both sides took place. Baneelon and Colbee disappeared
and several spears were thrown from different quarters, though without
effect. Our party retreated as fast as they could, calling to those
who were left in the boat, to hasten up with firearms. A situation more
distressing than that of the governor, during the time that this lasted,
cannot readily be conceived: the pole of the spear, not less than ten
feet in length, sticking out before him, and impeding his flight, the butt
frequently striking the ground, and lacerating the wound. In vain did Mr.
Waterhouse try to break it; and the barb, which appeared on the other side,
forbade extraction, until that could be performed. At length it was broken,
and his excellency reached the boat, by which time the seamen with the
muskets had got up, and were endeavouring to fire them, but one only would
go off, and there is no room to believe that it was attended with any
execution.

When the governor got home, the wound was examined. It had bled a good deal
in the boat, and it was doubtful whether the subclavian artery might not
be divided. On moving the spear, it was found, however, that it might be
safely extracted, which was accordingly performed.

Apprehension for the safety of the party who had gone to Broken Bay, now
took place. Lieutenant Long, with a detachment of marines, was immediately
sent to escort them back, lest any ambush might be laid by the natives to
cut them off. When Mr. Long reached Manly Cove, the sun had set; however,
he pursued his way in the dark, scrambling over rocks and thickets, as well
as he could, until two o'clock on the following morning, when he overtook
them at a place where they had halted to sleep, about half-way between the
two harbours.

At day-break they all returned, and were surprised to find tracks in the
sand of the feet of the Indians, almost the whole way from the place where
they had slept to the Cove. By this it should seem as if these last
had secretly followed them, probably with hostile intentions but, on
discovering their strength, and that they were on their guard, had
abandoned their design.

On reaching Manly Cove, three Indians were observed standing on a rock,
with whom they entered into conversation. The Indians informed them, that
the man who had wounded the governor belonged to a tribe residing at Broken
Bay, and they seemed highly to condemn what he had done. Our gentlemen
asked them for a spear, which they immediately gave. The boat's crew said
that Baneelon and Colbee had just departed, after a friendly intercourse.
Like the others, they had pretended highly to disapprove the conduct of the
man who had thrown the spear, vowing to execute vengeance upon him.

From this time, until the 14th, no communication passed between the natives
and us. On that day, the chaplain and lieutenant Dawes, having Abaroo with
them in a boat, learned from two Indians that Wileemarin was the name of
the person who had wounded the governor. These two people inquired kindly
how his excellency did, and seemed pleased to hear that he was likely to
recover. They said that they were inhabitants of Rose Hill, and expressed
great dissatisfaction at the number of white men who had settled in their
former territories. In consequence of which declaration, the detachment at
that post was reinforced on the following day.

A hazardous enterprise (but when liberty is the stake, what enterprise is
too hazardous for its attainment!) was undertaken in this month by five
convicts at Rose Hill, who, in the night, seized a small punt there, and
proceeded in her to the South Head, whence they seized and carried off a
boat, appropriated to the use of the lookout house, and put to sea in
her, doubtless with a view of reaching any port they could arrive at, and
asserting their freedom. They had all come out in the last fleet; and for
some time previous to their elopement, had been collecting fishing tackle,
and hoarding up provisions, to enable them to put their scheme into
execution*.

[*They have never since been heard of. Before they went away, they tried in
vain to procure firearms. If they were not swallowed by the sea, probably
they were cut off by the natives, on some part of the coast where their
necessities obliged them to land.]




CHAPTER IX.



Transactions of the Colony in part of September and October, 1790.


From so unfavourable an omen as I have just related, who could
prognosticate that an intercourse with the natives was about to commence!
That the foundation of what neither entreaty, munificence, or humanity,
could induce, should be laid by a deed, which threatened to accumulate
scenes of bloodshed and horror was a consequence which neither speculation
could predict, or hope expect to see accomplished.

On the 15th a fire being seen on the north shore of the harbour, a party
of our people went thither, accompanied by Nanbaree and Abaroo. They found
there Baneelon, and several other natives, and much civility passed, which
was cemented by a mutual promise to meet in the afternoon at the same
place. Both sides were punctual to their engagement, and no objection being
made to our landing, a party of us went ashore to them unarmed. Several
little presents, which had been purposely brought, were distributed among
them; and to Baneelon were given a hatchet and a fish. At a distance stood
some children, who, though at first timorous and unwilling to approach,
were soon persuaded to advance, and join the men.

A bottle of wine was produced, and Baneelon immediately prepared for the
charge. Bread and beef he called loudly for, which were given to him, and
he began to eat, offering a part of his fare to his countrymen, two of whom
tasted the beef, but none of them would touch the bread. Having finished
his repast, he made a motion to be shaved, and a barber being present, his
request was complied with, to the great admiration of his countrymen, who
laughed and exclaimed at the operation. They would not, however, consent
to undergo it, but suffered their beards to be clipped with a pair of
scissors.

On being asked where their women were, they pointed to the spot, but seemed
not desirous that we should approach it. However, in a few minutes, a
female appeared not far off, and Abaroo was dispatched to her. Baneelon
now joined with Abaroo to persuade her to come to us, telling us she was
Barangaroo, and his wife, notwithstanding he had so lately pretended that
she had left him for Colbee. At length she yielded, and Abaroo, having
first put a petticoat on her, brought her to us. But this was the prudery
of the wilderness, which her husband joined us to ridicule, and we soon
laughed her out of it. The petticoat was dropped with hesitation, and
Barangaroo stood "armed cap-a-pee in nakedness." At the request of
Baneelon, we combed and cut her hair, and she seemed pleased with the
operation. Wine she would not taste, but turned from it with disgust,
though heartily invited to drink by the example and persuasion of Baneelon.
In short, she behaved so well, and assumed the character of gentleness and
timidity to such advantage, that had our acquaintance ended here, a very
moderate share of the spirit of travelling would have sufficed to record,
that amidst a horde of roaming savages, in the desert wastes of New South
Wales, might be found as much feminine innocence, softness, and modesty
(allowing for inevitable difference of education), as the most finished
system could bestow, or the most polished circle produce. So little fitted
are we to judge of human nature at once! And yet on such grounds have
countries been described, and nations characterized. Hence have arisen
those speculative and laborious compositions on the advantages and
superiority of a state of nature. But to resume my subject.

Supposing, that by a private conversation, she might be induced to visit
Sydney, which would be the means of drawing her husband and others thither,
Abaroo was instructed to take her aside, and try if she could persuade her
to comply with our wish. They wandered away together accordingly, but it
was soon seen, that Barangaroo's arguments to induce Abaroo to rejoin their
society, were more powerful than those of the latter, to prevail upon her
to come among us; for it was not without manifest reluctance, and often
repeated injunctions, that Abaroo would quit her countrywomen; and when she
had done so, she sat in the boat, in sullen silence, evidently occupied by
reflection on the scene she had left behind, and returning inclination to
her former habits of life.

Nor was a circumstance which had happened in the morning interview,
perhaps, wholly unremembered by the girl. We had hinted to Baneelon to
provide a husband for her, who should be at liberty to pass and repass to
and from Sydney, as he might choose. There was at the time, a slender fine
looking youth in company, called Imeerawanyee, about sixteen years old.
The lad, on being invited, came immediately up to her, and offered many
blandishments, which proved that he had assumed the 'toga virilis'. But
Abaroo disclaimed his advances, repeating the name of another person,
who we knew was her favourite. The young lover was not, however, easily
repulsed, but renewed his suit, on our return in the afternoon, with such
warmth of solicitation, as to cause an evident alteration in the sentiments
of the lady.

To heighten the good humour which pervaded both parties, we began to
play and romp with them. Feats of bodily strength were tried, and their
inferiority was glaring. One of our party lifted with ease two of them from
the ground, in spite of their efforts to prevent him, whereas in return, no
one of them could move him. They called him 'murree mulla' (a large strong
man). Compared with our English labourers, their muscular power would
appear very feeble and inadequate.

Before we parted, Baneelon informed us that his countrymen had lately been
plundered of fish-gigs, spears, a sword, and many other articles, by
some of our people, and expressed a wish that they should be restored,
promising, that if they were, the governor's dirk should be produced and
returned to us to-morrow, if we would meet him here.

Accordingly on the following day we rowed to the spot, carrying with us the
stolen property. We found here several natives, but not Baneelon. We asked
for him, and were told that he was gone down the harbour with Barangaroo to
fish. Although disappointed at his breach of promise, we went on shore, and
mingled without distrust among those we found, acquainting them that we had
brought with us the articles of which they had been plundered. On hearing
this account, they expressed great joy, and Imeerawanyee darting forward,
claimed the sword. It was given to him, and he had no sooner grasped it,
than he hastened to convince his mistress, that his prowess in war, was not
inferior to his skill in courtship. Singling out a yellow gum-tree for the
foe, he attacked it with great fierceness, calling to us to look on, and
accompanying his onset with all the gestures and vociferation which they
use in battle. Having conquered his enemy, he laid aside his fighting face,
and joined us with a countenance which carried in it every mark of youth
and good nature.

Whether Abaroo's coyness, and preference of another, had displeased him, or
it was owing to natural fickleness, he paid her no farther attention, but
seemed more delighted with us. He had no beard, but was highly gratified in
being combed and having his hair clipped.

All the stolen property being brought on shore, an old man came up, and
claimed one of the fish-gigs, singling it from the bundle, and taking only
his own; and this honesty, within the circle of their society, seemed to
characterize them all.

During this time, it was observed, that one of the Indians, instead of
mixing with the rest, stood aloof, in a musing posture, contemplating what
passed. When we offered to approach him, he shunned us not, and willingly
shook hands with all who chose to do so. He seemed to be between 30 and 40
years old, was jolly, and had a thoughtful countenance, much marked by the
smallpox. He wore a string of bits of dried reed round his neck, which I
asked him to exchange for a black stock. He smiled at the proposal, but
made no offer of what I wanted; which our young friend, Imeerawanyee,
observing, flew to him, and taking off the necklace, directly fixed it
about my neck. I feared he would be enraged, but he bore it with serenity,
and suffered a gentleman present to fasten his black stock upon him, with
which he appeared to be pleased. To increase his satisfaction, some other
trifle was given to him.

Having remained here an hour we went in quest of Baneelon, agreeably to the
directions which his companions pointed out. We found him and Barangaroo
shivering over a few lighted sticks, by which they were dressing small
fish, and their canoe hauled up on the beach near them. On first seeing the
boat, they ran into the woods; but on being called by name, they came back,
and consented to our landing. We carried on shore with us the remaining
part of the fish-gigs and spears which had been stolen, and restored them
to Baneelon. Among other things, was a net full of fishing lines and
other tackle, which Barangaroo said was her property and, immediately on
receiving it, she slung it around her neck.

Baneelon inquired, with solicitude, about the state of the governor's
wound, but he made no offer of restoring the dirk; and when he was asked
for it, he pretended to know nothing of it, changing the conversation with
great art, and asking for wine, which was given to him.

At parting, we pressed him to appoint a day on which he should come to
Sydney, assuring him, that he would be well received, and kindly treated.
Doubtful, however, of being permitted to return, he evaded our request, and
declared that the governor must first come and see him, which we promised
should be done.

The governor did not hesitate to execute the engagement which we had
contracted for him. But Baneelon still resisted coming among us, and
matters continued in this fluctuating state until the 8th of October, when
a fire, which they had agreed to light as a signal for us to visit them,
was observed. The eager desire by which we were stimulated to carry our
point of effecting an intercourse had appeared. Various parties accordingly
set out to meet them, provided with different articles, which we thought
would prove acceptable to them. We found assembled, Baneelon, Barangaroo,
and another young woman, and six men, all of whom received us with welcome,
except the grave looking gentleman before mentioned, who stood aloof in
his former musing posture. When they saw that we had brought hatchets, and
other articles with us, they produced spears, fish-gigs, and lines, for
the purpose of barter,* which immediately commenced, to the satisfaction
of both parties. I had brought with me an old blunted spear, which wanted
repair. An Indian immediately undertook to perform the task, and carrying
it to a fire, tore with his teeth a piece of bone from a fish-gig, which he
fastened on the spear with yellow gum, rendered flexible by heat.

[*It had long been our wish to establish a commerce of this sort. It is a
painful consideration, that every previous addition to the cabinet of the
virtuosi, from this country, had wrung a tear from the plundered Indian.]


October, 1790. Many of them now consented to be shaved by a barber whom we
had purposely brought over. As I thought he who could perform an operation
of such importance must be deemed by them an eminent personage, I bade him
ask one of them for a fine barbed spear which he held in his hand; but all
the barber's eloquence was wasted on the Indian, who plainly gave him to
understand that he meant not to part with his spear, without receiving an
equivalent. Unfortunately, his price was a hatchet, and the only one which
I had brought with me was already disposed of to the man who had pointed
my spear. In vain did I tempt him with a knife, a handkerchief, and a hat;
nothing but a hatchet seemed to be regarded. 'Bulla mogo parrabugo' (two
hatchets to-morrow) I repeatedly cried; but having probably experienced our
insincerity, he rejected the proposal with disdain. Finding him inflexible,
and longing to possess the spear, I told him at length that I would go
to Sydney and fetch what he required. This seemed to satisfy, and he
accompanied me to my boat, in which I went away, and as quickly as possible
procured what was necessary to conclude the bargain. On my return, I was
surprised to see all our boats rowing towards home, and with them a
canoe, in which sat two Indians paddling. I pulled to them, and found that
Baneelon, and another Indian, were in one of the boats, and that the whole
formed a party going over to visit the governor. I now learned, that during
my absence, the governor had passed in a boat, on his return from Rose
Hill, near the place where they were standing; and that finding he would
not come to them, although they had called to him to do so, they had at
once determined to venture themselves unreservedly among us. One of the men
in the canoe was the person to whom I was to give the hatchet I had been
to fetch; and directly as he saw me, he held up his spear, and the exchange
took place, with which, and perhaps to reward me for the trouble I had
taken, he was so delighted that he presented me with a throwing-stick
'gratis'.

Not seeing Barangaroo of the party, I asked for her, and was informed that
she had violently opposed Baneelon's departure. When she found persuasion
vain, she had recourse to tears, scolding, and threats, stamping the
ground, and tearing her hair. But Baneelon continuing determined, she
snatched up in her rage one of his fish-gigs, and dashed it with such fury
on the rocks, that it broke. To quiet her apprehensions on the score of her
husband's safety, Mr. Johnson, attended by Abaroo, agreed to remain as a
hostage until Baneelon should return.

We landed our four friends opposite the hospital, and set out for the
governor's house. On hearing of their arrival, such numbers flocked to view
them that we were apprehensive the crowd of persons would alarm them,
but they had left their fears behind, and marched on with boldness and
unconcern. When we reached the governor's house, Baneelon expressed
honest joy to see his old friend, and appeared pleased to find that he had
recovered of his wound. The governor asked for Wileemarin, and they said
he was at Broken Bay. Some bread and beef were distributed among them but
unluckily no fish was to be procured, which we were sorry for, as a promise
of it had been one of the leading temptations by which they had been
allured over. A hatchet apiece was, however, given to them, and a couple
of petticoats and some fishing tackle sent for Barangaroo, and the other
woman.

The ceremony of introduction being finished, Baneelon seemed to consider
himself quite at home, running from room to room with his companions, and
introducing them to his old friends, the domestics, in the most familiar
manner. Among these last, he particularly distinguished the governor's
orderly sergeant, whom he kissed with great affection, and a woman who
attended in the kitchen; but the gamekeeper, M'Entire*, he continued to
hold in abhorrence, and would not suffer his approach.

[*Look at the account of the governor being wounded, when his detestation
of this man burst forth.]

Nor was his importance to his countrymen less conspicuous in other
respects. He undertook to explain the use and nature of those things which
were new to them. Some of his explanations were whimsical enough. Seeing,
for instance, a pair of snuffers, he told them that they were "Nuffer* for
candle,"--which the others not comprehending, he opened the snuffers, and
holding up the fore-finger of his left hand, to represent a candle, made
the motion of snuffing it. Finding, that even this sagacious interpretation
failed, he threw down the snuffers in a rage, and reproaching their
stupidity, walked away.

[*The S is a letter which they cannot pronounce, having no sound in their
language similar to it. When bidden to pronounce sun, they always say tun;
salt, talt, and so of all words wherein it occurs.]

It was observed, that a soft gentle tone of voice, which we had taught him
to use, was forgotten, and his native vociferation returned in full force.
But the tenderness which (like Arabanoo) he had always manifested to
children, he still retained; as appeared by his behaviour to those who were
presented to him.

The first wish they expressed to return, was complied with, in order to
banish all appearance of constraint, the party who had conducted them to
Sydney returning with them. When we reached the opposite shore, we
found Abaroo and the other woman fishing in a canoe, and Mr. Johnson
and Barangaroo sitting at the fire, the latter employed in manufacturing
fish-hooks. At a little distance, on an adjoining eminence, sat an Indian,
with his spear in his hand, as if sentinel over the hostages, for the
security of his countrymen's return. During our absence, Barangaroo
had never ceased whining, and reproaching her husband. Now that he was
returned, she met him with unconcern, and seemed intent on her work only,
but this state of repose did not long continue. Baneelon, eyeing the broken
fish-gig, cast at her a look of savage fury and began to interrogate
her, and it seemed more than probable that the remaining part would be
demolished about her head had we not interposed to pacify him. Nor would
we quit the place until his forgiveness was complete, and his good humour
restored. No sooner, however, did she find her husband's rage subsided,
than her hour of triumph commenced. The alarm and trepidation she had
manifested disappeared. Elated at his condescension, and emboldened by our
presence and the finery in which we had decked her, she in turn assumed a
haughty demeanour, refused to answer his caresses, and viewed him with a
reproaching eye. Although long absence from female society had somewhat
blunted our recollection, the conduct of Barangaroo did not appear quite
novel to us, nor was our surprise very violent at finding that it succeeded
in subduing Baneelon who, when we parted, seemed anxious only to please
her.

Thus ended a day, the events of which served to complete what an unhappy
accident had begun. From this time our intercourse with the natives,
though partially interrupted, was never broken off. We gradually continued,
henceforth, to gain knowledge of their customs and policy, the only
knowledge which can lead to a just estimate of national character.




CHAPTER X.



The arrival of the 'Supply' from Batavia; the State of the Colony in
November, 1790.


Joy sparkled in every countenance to see our old friend the 'Supply' (I
hope no reader will be so captious as to quarrel with the phrase) enter the
harbour from Batavia on the 19th of October. We had witnessed her departure
with tears; we hailed her return with transport.

Captain Ball was rather more than six months in making this voyage, and is
the first person who ever circumnavigated the continent of New Holland. On
his passage to Batavia, he had discovered several islands, which he gave
names to and, after fighting his way against adverse elements and through
unexplored dangers, safely reached his destined port. He had well stored
his little bark with every necessary and conveniency which he judged
we should first want, leaving a cargo of rice and salt provisions to be
brought on by a Dutch snow, which he had hired and freighted for the use of
the settlement. While at Batavia, the 'Supply' had lost many of her people
by sickness, and left several others in the general hospital at that place.

As the arrival of the 'Supply' naturally leads the attention from other
subjects to the state of the colony, I shall here take a review of it by
transcribing a statement drawn from actual observation soon after, exactly
as I find it written in my journal.

Cultivation, on a public scale, has for some time past been given up here,
(Sydney) the crop of last year being so miserable, as to deter from farther
experiment, in consequence of which the government-farm is abandoned,
and the people who were fixed on it have been removed. Necessary public
buildings advance fast; an excellent storehouse of large dimensions, built
of bricks and covered with tiles, is just completed; and another planned
which will shortly be begun. Other buildings, among which I heard the
governor mention an hospital and permanent barracks for the troops, may
also be expected to arise soon. Works of this nature are more expeditiously
performed than heretofore, owing, I apprehend, to the superintendants
lately arrived, who are placed over the convicts and compel them to labour.
The first difficulties of a new country being subdued may also contribute
to this comparative facility.

Vegetables are scarce, although the summer is so far advanced, owing to
want of rain. I do not think that all the showers of the last four months
put together, would make twenty-four hours rain. Our farms, what with this
and a poor soil, are in wretched condition. My winter crop of potatoes,
which I planted in days of despair (March and April last), turned out very
badly when I dug them about two months back. Wheat returned so poorly last
harvest, that very little, besides Indian corn, has been sown this year.
The governor's wound is quite healed, and he feels no inconveniency
whatever from it. With the natives we are hand and glove. They throng the
camp every day, and sometimes by their clamour and importunity for bread
and meat (of which they now all eat greedily) are become very troublesome.
God knows, we have little enough for ourselves! Full allowance (if eight
pounds of flour and either seven pounds of beef, or four pounds of pork,
served alternately, per week, without either pease, oatmeal, spirits,
butter, or cheese, can be called so) is yet kept up; but if the Dutch snow
does not arrive soon it must be shortened, as the casks in the storehouse,
I observed yesterday, are woefully decreased.

The convicts continue to behave pretty well; three only have been hanged
since the arrival of the last fleet, in the latter end of June, all of
whom were newcomers. The number of convicts here diminishes every day;
our principal efforts being wisely made at Rose Hill, where the land is
unquestionably better than about this place. Except building, sawing and
brickmaking, nothing of consequence is now carried on here. The account
which I received a few days ago from the brickmakers of their labours, was
as follows. Wheeler (one of the master brick-makers) with two tile stools
and one brick stool, was tasked to make and burn ready for use 30000 tiles
and bricks per month. He had twenty-one hands to assist him, who performed
every thing; cut wood, dug clay, etc. This continued (during the days of
distress excepted, when they did what they could) until June last. From
June, with one brick and two tile stools he has been tasked to make
40000 bricks and tiles monthly (as many of each sort as may be), having
twenty-two men and two boys to assist him, on the same terms of procuring
materials as before. They fetch the clay of which tiles are made, two
hundred yards; that for bricks is close at hand. He says that the bricks
are such as would be called in England, moderately good, and he judges they
would have fetched about 24 shillings per thousand at Kingston-upon-Thames
(where he resided) in the year 1784. Their greatest fault is being too
brittle. The tiles he thinks not so good as those made about London.
The stuff has a rotten quality, and besides wants the advantage of being
ground, in lieu of which they tread it.

King (another master bricklayer) last year, with the assistance of sixteen
men and two boys, made 11,000 bricks weekly, with two stools. During short
allowance did what he could. Resumed his old task when put again on full
allowance and had his number of assistants augmented to twenty men and two
boys, on account of the increased distance of carrying wood for the kilns.
He worked at Hammersmith, for Mr. Scot, of that place. He thinks the bricks
made here as good as those made near London, and says that in the year
1784, they would have sold for a guinea per thousand and to have picked the
kiln at thirty shillings.'

Such is my Sydney detail dated the 12th of November, 1790. Four days after
I went to Rose Hill, and wrote there the subjoined remarks.

November 16th. Got to Rose Hill in the evening. Next morning walked round
the whole of the cleared and cultivated land, with the Rev. Mr. Johnson,
who is the best farmer in the country. Edward Dod, one of the governor's
household, who conducts everything here in the agricultural line,
accompanied us part of the way, and afforded all the information he could.
He estimates the quantity of cleared and cultivated land at 200 acres. Of
these fifty-five are in wheat, barley, and a little oats, thirty in
maize, and the remainder is either just cleared of wood, or is occupied by
buildings, gardens, etc. Four enclosures of twenty acres each, are planned
for the reception of cattle, which may arrive in the colony, and two of
these are already fenced in. In the centre of them is to be erected a
house, for a person who will be fixed upon to take care of the cattle.
All these enclosures are supplied with water; and only a part of the trees
which grew in them being cut down, gives to them a very park-like and
beautiful appearance.

Our survey commenced on the north side of the river. Dod says he expects
this year's crop of wheat and barley from the fifty-five acres to yield
full 400 bushels. Appearances hitherto hardly indicate so much. He says he
finds the beginning of May the best time to sow barley,* but that it may
continue to be sown until August. That sown in May is reaped in December;
that of August in January. He sowed his wheat, part in June and part in
July. He thinks June the best time, and says that he invariably finds that
which is deepest sown, grows strongest and best, even as deep as three
inches he has put it in, and found it to answer. The wheat sown in June
is now turning yellow; that of July is more backward. He has used only the
broad-cast husbandry, and sowed two bushels per acre. The plough has never
yet been tried here; all the ground is hoed, and (as Dod confesses) very
incompetently turned up. Each convict labourer was obliged to hoe sixteen
rods a day, so that in some places the earth was but just scratched over.
The ground was left open for some months, to receive benefit from the sun
and air; and on that newly cleared the trees were burnt, and the ashes dug
in. I do not find that a succession of crops has yet been attempted; surely
it would help to meliorate and improve the soil. Dod recommends strongly
the culture of potatoes, on a large scale, and says that were they planted
even as late as January they would answer, but this I doubt. He is more
than ever of opinion that without a large supply of cattle nothing can be
done. They have not at this time either horse, cow, or sheep here. I asked
him how the stock they had was coming on. The fowls he said multiplied
exceedingly, but the hogs neither thrived or increased in number, for want
of food. He pointed out to us his best wheat, which looks tolerable, and
may perhaps yield 13 or 14 bushels per acre**. Next came the oats which are
in ear, though not more than six inches high: they will not return as much
seed as was sown. The barley, except one patch in a corner of a field,
little better than the oats. Crossed the river and inspected the south
side. Found the little patch of wheat at the bottom of the crescent very
bad. Proceeded and examined the large field on the ascent to the westward:
here are about twenty-five acres of wheat, which from its appearance we
guessed would produce perhaps seven bushels an acre. The next patch to this
is in maize, which looks not unpromising; some of the stems are stout, and
beginning to throw out large broad leaves, the surest sign of vigour. The
view from the top of the wheat field takes in, except a narrow slip, the
whole of the cleared land at Rose Hill. From not having before seen an
opening of such extent for the last three years, this struck us as grand
and capacious. The beautiful diversity of the ground (gentle hill and dale)
would certainly be reckoned pretty in any country. Continued our walk, and
crossed the old field, which is intended to form part of the main street of
the projected town. The wheat in this field is rather better, but not much,
than in the large field before mentioned. The next field is maize, inferior
to what we have seen, but not despicable. An acre of maize, at the bottom
of the marine garden, is equal in luxuriancy of promise to any I ever saw
in any country.

[*The best crop of barley ever produced in New South Wales, was sown by a
private individual, in February 1790, and reaped in the following October.]

[**As all the trees on our cleared ground were cut down, and not grubbed
up, the roots and stumps remain, on which account a tenth part of surface
in every acre must be deducted. This is slovenly husbandry; but in a
country where immediate subsistence is wanted, it is perhaps necessary.
None of these stumps, when I left Port Jackson, showed any symptoms of
decay, though some of the trees had been cut down four years. To the
different qualities of the wood of Norfolk Island and New South Wales,
perhaps the difference of soil may in some measure be traced. That of
Norfolk Island is light and porous: it rots and turns into mould in two
years. Besides its hardness that of Port Jackson abounds with red corrosive
gum, which contributes its share of mischief.]


The main street of the new town is already begun. It is to be a mile long,
and of such breadth as will make Pall Mall and Portland Place "hide their
diminished heads." It contains at present thirty-two houses completed, of
twenty-four feet by twelve each, on a ground floor only, built of wattles
plastered with clay, and thatched. Each house is divided into two rooms, in
one of which is a fire place and a brick chimney. These houses are designed
for men only; and ten is the number of inhabitants allotted to each;
but some of them now contain twelve or fourteen, for want of better
accommodation. More are building. In a cross street stand nine houses for
unmarried women; and exclusive of all these are several small huts where
convict families of good character are allowed to reside. Of public
buildings, besides the old wooden barrack and store, there is a house of
lath and plaster, forty-four feet long by sixteen wide, for the governor,
on a ground floor only, with excellent out-houses and appurtenances
attached to it. A new brick store house, covered with tiles, 100 feet long
by twenty-four wide, is nearly completed, and a house for the store-keeper.
The first stone of a barrack, 100 feet long by twenty-four wide, to which
are intended to be added wings for the officers, was laid to-day. The
situation of the barrack is judicious, being close to the store-house, and
within a hundred and fifty yards of the wharf, where all boats from Sydney
unload. To what I have already enumerated, must be added an excellent barn,
a granary, an inclosed yard to rear stock in, a commodious blacksmith's
shop, and a most wretched hospital, totally destitute of every conveniency.
Luckily for the gentleman who superintends this hospital, and still more
luckily for those who are doomed in case of sickness to enter it, the air
of Rose Hill has hitherto been generally healthy. A tendency to produce
slight inflammatory disorders, from the rapid changes* of the temperature
of the air, is most to be dreaded.

[*In the close of the year 1788, when this settlement was established, the
thermometer has been known to stand at 50 degrees a little before sunrise,
and between one and two o' clock in the afternoon at above 100 degrees.]


'The hours of labour for the convicts are the same here as at Sydney. On
Saturdays after ten o'clock in the morning they are allowed to work in
their own gardens. These gardens are at present, from the long drought and
other causes, in a most deplorable state. Potatoes, I think, thrive better
than any other vegetable in them. For the public conveniency a baker is
established here in a good bakehouse, who exchanges with every person bread
for flour, on stipulated terms; but no compulsion exists for any one to
take his bread; it is left entirely to every body's own option to consume
his flour as he pleases. Divine service is performed here, morning and
afternoon, one Sunday in every month, when all the convicts are obliged
to attend church, under penalty of having a part of their allowance of
provisions stopped, which is done by the chaplain, who is a justice of the
peace.

'For the punishment of offenders, where a criminal court is not judged
necessary, two or more justices, occasionally assemble, and order the
infliction of slight corporal punishment, or short confinement in a strong
room built for this purpose. The military present here consists of two
subalterns, two sergeants, three corporals, a drummer, and twenty-one
privates. These have been occasionally augmented and reduced, as
circumstances have been thought to render it necessary.

Brick-kilns are now erected here, and bricks manufactured by a convict
of the name of Becket, who came out in the last fleet, and has fifty-two
people to work under him. He makes 25,000 bricks weekly. He says that they
are very good, and would sell at Birmingham, where he worked about eighteen
months ago, at more than 30 shillings per thousand.

Nothing farther of public nature remaining to examine, I next visited a
humble adventurer, who is trying his fortune here. James Ruse, convict, was
cast for seven years at Bodmin assizes, in August 1782. He lay five years
in prison and on board the 'Dunkirk' hulk at Plymouth, and then was sent
to this country. When his term of punishment expired, in August 1789, he
claimed his freedom, and was permitted by the governor, on promising to
settle in the country, to take in December following, an uncleaned piece of
ground, with an assurance that if he would cultivate it, it should not be
taken from him. Some assistance was given him, to fell the timber, and he
accordingly began. His present account to me was as follows.


I was bred a husbandman, near Launcester in Cornwall. I cleared my land as
well as I could, with the help afforded me. The exact limit of what ground
I am to have, I do not yet know; but a certain direction has been pointed
out to me, in which I may proceed as fast as I can cultivate. I have now
an acre and a half in bearded wheat, half an acre in maize, and a small
kitchen garden. On my wheat land I sowed three bushels of seed, the produce
of this country, broad cast. I expect to reap about twelve or thirteen
bushels. I know nothing of the cultivation of maize, and cannot therefore
guess so well at what I am likely to gather. I sowed part of my wheat
in May, and part in June. That sown in May has thrived best. My maize I
planted in the latter end of August, and the beginning of September. My
land I prepared thus: having burnt the fallen timber off the ground, I dug
in the ashes, and then hoed it up, never doing more than eight, or perhaps
nine, rods in a day, by which means, it was not like the government farm,
just scratched over, but properly done. Then I clod-moulded it, and dug in
the grass and weeds. This I think almost equal to ploughing. I then let it
lie as long as I could, exposed to air and sun; and just before I sowed my
seed, turned it all up afresh. When I shall have reaped my crop, I purpose
to hoe it again, and harrow it fine, and then sow it with turnip-seed,
which will mellow and prepare it for next year. My straw, I mean to bury in
pits, and throw in with it every thing which I think will rot and turn
to manure. I have no person to help me, at present, but my wife, whom I
married in this country; she is industrious. The governor, for some time,
gave me the help of a convict man, but he is taken away. Both my wife
and myself receive our provisions regularly at the store, like all other
people. My opinion of the soil of my farm, is, that it is middling, neither
good or bad. I will be bound to make it do with the aid of manure, but
without cattle it will fail. The greatest check upon me is, the dishonesty
of the convicts who, in spite of all my vigilance, rob me almost every
night.


The annexed return will show the number of persons of all descriptions
at Rose Hill, at this period. On the morning of the 17th, I went down to
Sydney.

Here terminates the transcription of my diary. It were vain to suppose,
that it can prove either agreeable or interesting to a majority of readers
but as this work is intended not only for amusement, but information, I
considered it right to present this detail unaltered, either in its style
or arrangement.



A return of the number of persons employed at Rose Hill, November 16th,
1790.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How Employed | Troops | Civil dept |     Troops       |      Convicts         |
             |        |            |Wives  |  Children| Men | Women | Children|
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Storekeeper                 1
Surgeon                     1
Carpenters                                              24
Blacksmiths                                              5
Master Bricklayer                                        1
Bricklayers                                             28
Master Brickmaker                                        1
Brickmakers                                             52
Labourers                                              326*
Assistants to the
provision store                                          4
Assistants to the
hospital                                                 3
Officers' servants                                       6
Making Clothing                                                50
Superintendants            4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total number of
persons   552|  29    |    6       |   1   |      3   | 450 |  50   |    13   |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[*Of these labourers, 16 are sawyers. The rest are variously employed in
clearing fresh land; in dragging brick and timber carts; and a great number
in making a road of a mile long, through the main street, to the governor's
house.]




CHAPTER XI.



Farther Transactions of the Colony in November, 1790.


During the intervals of duty, our greatest source of entertainment now
lay in cultivating the acquaintance of our new friends, the natives. Ever
liberal of communication, no difficulty but of understanding each other
subsisted between us. Inexplicable contradictions arose to bewilder our
researches which no ingenuity could unravel and no credulity reconcile.

Baneelon, from being accustomed to our manners, and understanding a little
English, was the person through whom we wished to prosecute inquiry, but he
had lately become a man of so much dignity and consequence, that it was not
always easy to obtain his company. Clothes had been given to him at various
times, but he did not always condescend to wear them. One day he would
appear in them, and the next day he was to be seen carrying them in a net
slung around his neck. Farther to please him, a brick house of twelve feet
square was built for his use, and for that of such of his countrymen as
might choose to reside in it, on a point of land fixed upon by himself. A
shield, double cased with tin, to ward off the spears of his enemies, was
also presented to him, by the governor.

Elated by these marks of favour, and sensible that his importance with his
countrymen arose in proportion to our patronage of him, he warmly attached
himself to our society. But the gratitude of a savage is ever a precarious
tenure. That of Baneelon was fated to suffer suspension, and had well nigh
been obliterated by the following singular circumstance.

One day the natives were observed to assemble in more than an ordinary
number at their house on the point, and to be full of bustle and agitation,
repeatedly calling on the name of Baneelon, and that of 'deein' (a woman).
Between twelve and one o'clock Baneelon, unattended, came to the governor
at his house, and told him that he was going to put to death a woman
immediately, whom he had brought from Botany Bay. Having communicated
his intention, he was preparing to go away, seeming not to wish that the
governor should be present at the performance of the ceremony. But His
Excellency was so struck with the fierce gestures, and wild demeanour of
the other, who held in his hand one of our hatchets and frequently tried
the sharpness of it, that he determined to accompany him, taking with him
Mr. Collins and his orderly sergeant. On the road, Baneelon continued
to talk wildly and incoherently of what he would do, and manifested such
extravagant marks of fury and revenge, that his hatchet was taken away from
him, and a walking-stick substituted for it.

When they reached the house, they found several natives, of both sexes
lying promiscuously before the fire, and among them a young woman, not
more than sixteen years old, who at sight of Baneelon, started, and raised
herself half up. He no sooner saw her than, snatching a sword of the
country, he ran at her, and gave her two severe wounds on the head and one
on the shoulder, before interference in behalf of the poor wretch could
be made. Our people now rushed in and seized him; but the other Indians
continued quiet spectators of what was passing, either awed by Baneelon's
superiority or deeming it a common case, unworthy of notice and
interposition. In vain did the governor by turns soothe and threaten him.
In vain did the sergeant point his musquet at him. He seemed dead to every
passion but revenge; forgot his affection to his old friends and, instead
of complying with the request they made, furiously brandished his sword
at the governor, and called aloud for his hatchet to dispatch the unhappy
victim of his barbarity. Matters now wore a serious aspect. The other
Indians appeared under the control of Baneelon and had begun to arm and
prepare their spears, as if determined to support him in his violence.

Farther delay might have been attended with danger. The 'Supply' was
therefore immediately hailed, and an armed boat ordered to be sent on
shore. Luckily, those on board the ship had already observed the commotion
and a boat was ready, into which captain Ball, with several of his people
stepped, armed with musquets, and put off. It was reasonable to believe
that so powerful a reinforcement would restore tranquillity, but Baneelon
stood unintimidated at disparity of numbers and boldly demanded his
prisoner, whose life, he told the governor, he was determined to sacrifice,
and afterwards to cut off her head. Everyone was eager to know what could
be the cause of such inveterate inhumanity. Undaunted, he replied that her
father was his enemy, from whom he had received the wound in his forehead
beforementioned; and that when he was down in battle, and under the lance
of his antagonist, this woman had contributed to assail him. "She is now,"
added he, "my property: I have ravished her by force from her tribe: and
I will part with her to no person whatever, until my vengeance shall be
glutted."

Farther remonstrance would have been wasted. His Excellency therefore
ordered the woman to be taken to the hospital in order that her wounds
might be dressed. While this was doing, one of the natives, a young man
named Boladeree, came up and supplicated to be taken into the boat also,
saying that he was her husband, which she confirmed and begged that he
might be admitted. He was a fine well grown lad, of nineteen or twenty
years old, and was one of the persons who had been in the house in the
scene just described, which he had in no wise endeavoured to prevent, or to
afford assistance to the poor creature who had a right to his protection.

All our people now quitted the place, leaving the exasperated Baneelon and
his associates to meditate farther schemes of vengeance. Before they parted
he gave them, however, to understand that he would follow the object of his
resentment to the hospital, and kill her there, a threat which the governor
assured him if he offered to carry into execution he should be immediately
shot. Even this menace he treated with disdain.

To place the refugees in security, a sentinel was ordered to take post
at the door of the house, in which they were lodged. Nevertheless they
attempted to get away in the night, either from fear that we were not
able to protect them, or some apprehension of being restrained from future
liberty. When questioned where they proposed to find shelter, they said
they would go to the Cameragal tribe, with whom they should be safe. On the
following morning, Imeerawanyee* joined them, and expressed strong fears of
Baneelon's resentment. Soon after a party of natives, known to consist of
Baneelon's chosen friends, with a man of the name of Bigon, at their head,
boldly entered the hospital garden, and tried to carry off all three by
force. They were driven back and threatened, to which their leader only
replied by contemptuous insolence.

[*This good-tempered lively lad, was become a great favourite with us, and
almost constantly lived at the governor's house. He had clothes made up for
him, and to amuse his mind, he was taught to wait at table. One day a lady,
Mrs. McArthur, wife of an officer of the garrison, dined there, as did
Nanbaree. This latter, anxious that his countryman should appear to
advantage in his new office, gave him many instructions, strictly charging
him, among other things, to take away the lady's plate, whenever she should
cross her knife and fork, and to give her a clean one. This Imeerawanyee
executed, not only to Mrs. McArthur, but to several of the other guests.
At last Nanbaree crossed his knife and fork with great gravity, casting a
glance at the other, who looked for a moment with cool indifference at
what he had done, and then turned his head another way. Stung at this
supercilious treatment, he called in rage, to know why he was not attended
to, as well as the rest of the company. But Imeerawanyee only laughed; nor
could all the anger and reproaches of the other prevail upon him to do
that for one of his countrymen, which he cheerfully continued to perform to
every other person.]

Baneelon finding he could not succeed, withdrew himself for two days. At
length he made his appearance, attended only by his wife. Unmindful of what
had so recently happened, he marched singly up to the governor's house,
and on being refused admittance, though unarmed, attempted to force the
sentinel. The soldier spared him, but the guard was instantly sent for, and
drawn up in front of the house; not that their co-operation was necessary,
but that their appearance might terrify. His ardour now cooled, and he
seemed willing, by submission, to atone for his misconduct. His intrepid
disregard of personal risk, nay of life, could not however, but gain
admiration; though it led us to predict, that this Baneelon, whom
imagination had fondly pictured, like a second Omai, the gaze of a court
and the scrutiny of the curious, would perish untimely, the victim of his
own temerity.

To encourage his present disposition of mind, and to try if feelings of
compassion towards an enemy, could be exerted by an Indian warrior, the
governor ordered him to be taken to the hospital, that he might see the
victim of his ferocity. He complied in sullen silence. When about to enter
the room in which she lay, he appeared to have a momentary struggle with
himself, which ended his resentment. He spoke to her with kindness, and
professed sorrow for what he had done, and promised her future protection.
Barangaroo, who had accompanied him, now took the alarm: and as in shunning
one extreme we are ever likely to rush into another, she thought him
perhaps too courteous and tender. Accordingly she began to revile them both
with great bitterness, threw stones at the girl and attempted to beat her
with a club.

Here terminated this curious history, which I leave to the reader's
speculation. Whether human sacrifices of prisoners be common among them
is a point which all our future inquiry never completely determined. It is
certain that no second instance of this sort was ever witnessed by us.




CHAPTER XII.



Transactions of the Colony in Part of December, 1790.


On the 9th of the month, a sergeant of marines, with three convicts, among
whom was McEntire, the governor's gamekeeper (the person of whom Baneelon
had, on former occasions, shown so much dread and hatred) went out on a
shooting party. Having passed the north arm of Botany Bay, they proceeded
to a hut formed of boughs, which had been lately erected on this peninsula,
for the accommodation of sportsmen who wished to continue by night in the
woods; for, as the kangaroos in the day-time, chiefly keep in the cover, it
is customary on these parties to sleep until near sunset, and watch for the
game during the night, and in the early part of the morning. Accordingly,
having lighted a fire, they lay down, without distrust or suspicion.

About one o'clock, the sergeant was awakened by a rustling noise in the
bushes near him, and supposing it to proceed from a kangaroo, called to his
comrades, who instantly jumped up. On looking about more narrowly, they saw
two natives with spears in their hands, creeping towards them, and three
others a little farther behind. As this naturally created alarm, McEntire
said, "don't be afraid, I know them," and immediately laying down his gun,
stepped forward, and spoke to them in their own language. The Indians,
finding they were discovered, kept slowly retreating, and McEntire
accompanied them about a hundred yards, talking familiarly all the while.

One of them now jumped on a fallen tree and, without giving the least
warning of his intention, launched his spear at McEntire and lodged it in
his left side. The person who committed this wanton act was described as a
young man with a speck or blemish on his left eye That he had been lately
among us was evident from his being newly shaved.

The wounded man immediately drew back and, joining his party, cried, "I am
a dead man". While one broke off the end of the spear, the other two set
out with their guns in pursuit of the natives; but their swiftness of foot
soon convinced our people of the impossibility of reaching them. It was now
determined to attempt to carry McEntire home, as his death was apprehended
to be near, and he expressed a longing desire not to be left to expire in
the woods. Being an uncommonly robust muscular man, notwithstanding a great
effusion of blood, he was able, with the assistance of his comrades, to
creep slowly along, and reached Sydney about two o'clock the next morning.
On the wound being examined by the surgeons, it was pronounced mortal.
The poor wretch now began to utter the most dreadful exclamations, and to
accuse himself of the commission of crimes of the deepest dye, accompanied
with such expressions of his despair of God's mercy, as are too terrible to
repeat.

In the course of the day, Colbee, and several more natives came in, and
were taken to the bed where the wounded man lay. Their behaviour indicated
that they had already heard of the accident, as they repeated twice or
thrice the name of the murderer Pimelwi, saying that he lived at Botany
Bay. To gain knowledge of their treatment of similar wounds, one of the
surgeons made signs of extracting the spear, but this they violently
opposed, and said, if it were done, death would instantly follow.

On the 12th, the extraction of the spear was, however, judged practicable,
and was accordingly performed. That part of it which had penetrated the
body measured seven inches and a half long, having on it a wooden barb, and
several smaller ones of stone, fastened on with yellow gum, most of which,
owing to the force necessary in extraction, were torn off and lodged in the
patient. The spear had passed between two ribs, and had wounded the
left lobe of the lungs. He lingered* until the 20th of January, and
then expired. On opening the corpse, it was found that the left lung had
perished from suppuration, its remains adhering to the ribs. Some pieces of
stone, which had dropped from the spear were seen, but no barb of wood.

[*From the aversion uniformly shown by all the natives to this unhappy
man, he had long been suspected by us of having in his excursions, shot
and injured them. To gain information on this head from him, the moment
of contrition was seized. On being questioned with great seriousness, he,
however, declared that he had never fired but once on a native, and then
had not killed, but severely wounded him and this in his own defence.
Notwithstanding this death-bed confession, most people doubted the truth of
the relation, from his general character and other circumstances.]

The governor was at Rose-hill when this accident happened. On the day after
he returned to Sydney, the following order was issued:


Several tribes of the natives still continuing to throw spears at any
man they meet unarmed, by which several have been killed, or dangerously
wounded, the governor, in order to deter the natives from such practices
in future, has ordered out a party to search for the man who wounded
the convict McEntire, in so dangerous a manner on Friday last, though no
offence was offered on his part, in order to make a signal example of that
tribe. At the same time, the governor strictly forbids, under penalty of
the severest punishment, any soldier or other person, not expressly ordered
out for that purpose, ever to fire on any native except in his own defence;
or to molest him in any shape, or to bring away any spears, or other
articles which they may find belonging to those people. The natives will be
made severe examples of whenever any man is wounded by them; but this
will be done in a manner which may satisfy them that it is a punishment
inflicted on them for their own bad conduct, and of which they cannot be
made sensible if they are not treated with kindness while they continue
peaceable and quiet.

A party, consisting of two captains, two subalterns, and forty privates,
with a proper number of non-commissioned officers from the garrison, with
three days provisions, etc. are to be ready to march to-morrow morning at
day-light, in order to bring in six of those natives who reside near the
head of Botany Bay; or, if that should be found impracticable, to put that
number to death.


Just previous to this order being issued, the author of this publication
received a direction to attend the governor at head quarters immediately. I
went, and his excellency informed me that he had pitched upon me to execute
the foregoing command. He added that the two subalterns who were to be
drawn from the marine corps, should be chosen by myself; that the sergeant
and the two convicts who were with McEntire, should attend as guides; that
we were to proceed to the peninsula at the head of Botany Bay; and thence,
or from any part of the north arm of the bay, we were, if practicable, to
bring away two natives as prisoners; and to put to death ten; that we
were to destroy all weapons of war but nothing else; that no hut was to
be burned; that all women and children were to remain uninjured, not being
comprehended within the scope of the order; that our operations were to
be directed either by surprise or open force; that after we had made any
prisoners, all communication, even with those natives with whom we were
in habits of intercourse, was to be avoided, and none of them suffered to
approach us. That we were to cut off and bring in the heads of the slain;
for which purpose hatchets and bags would be furnished. And finally, that
no signal of amity or invitation should be used in order to allure them to
us; or if made on their part, to be answered by us: for that such conduct
would be not only present treachery, but give them reason to distrust every
future mark of peace and friendship on our part.

His excellency was now pleased to enter into the reasons which had induced
him to adopt measures of such severity. He said that since our arrival in
the country, no less than seventeen of our people had either been killed or
wounded by the natives; that he looked upon the tribe known by the name of
Bideegal, living on the beforementioned peninsula, and chiefly on the north
arm of Botany Bay, to be the principal aggressors; that against this tribe
he was determined to strike a decisive blow, in order, at once to convince
them of our superiority and to infuse an universal terror, which might
operate to prevent farther mischief. That his observations on the natives
had led him to conclude that although they did not fear death individually,
yet that the relative weight and importance of the different tribes
appeared to be the highest object of their estimation, as each tribe deemed
its strength and security to consist wholly in its powers, aggregately
considered. That his motive for having so long delayed to use violent
measures had arisen from believing, that in every former instance of
hostility, they had acted either from having received injury, or from
misapprehension.

"To the latter of these causes," added he, "I attribute my own wound,
but in this business of McEntire, I am fully persuaded that they were
unprovoked, and the barbarity of their conduct admits of no extenuation;
for I have separately examined the sergeant, of whose veracity I have the
highest opinion, and the two convicts; and their story is short, simple,
and alike. I have in vain tried to stimulate Baneelon, Colbee, and the
other natives who live among us, to bring in the aggressor. Yesterday,
indeed, they promised me to do it, and actually went away as if bent on
such a design; but Baneelon, instead of directing his steps to Botany Bay,
crossed the harbour in his canoe, in order to draw the foreteeth of some
of the young men; and Colbee, in the room of fulfilling his engagement,
is loitering about the lookout house. Nay, so far from wishing even to
describe faithfully the person of the man who has thrown the spear, they
pretended that he has a distorted foot, which is a palpable falsehood. So
that we have our efforts only to depend upon; and I am resolved to execute
the prisoners who may be brought in, in the most public and exemplary
manner, in the presence of as many of their countrymen as can be collected,
after having explained the cause of such a punishment; and my fixed
determination to repeat it, whenever any future breach of good conduct on
their side shall render it necessary."

Here the governor stopped, and addressing himself to me, said if I could
propose any alteration of the orders under which I was to act, he would
patiently listen to me. Encouraged by this condescension, I begged leave
to offer for consideration whether, instead of destroying ten persons,
the capture of six would not better answer all the purposes for which the
expedition was to be undertaken; as out of this number, a part might be
set aside for retaliation; and the rest, at a proper time, liberated, after
having seen the fate of their comrades and being made sensible of the cause
of their own detention.

This scheme, his Excellency was pleased instantly to adopt, adding, "if
six cannot be taken, let this number be shot. Should you, however, find it
practicable to take so many, I will hang two and send the rest to Norfolk
Island for a certain period, which will cause their countrymen to believe
that we have dispatched them secretly." The order was accordingly altered
to its present form; and I took my leave to prepare, after being again
cautioned not to deceive by holding signals of amity.

At four o'clock on the morning of the 14th we marched The detachment
consisted, besides myself, of Captain Hill of the New South Wales Corps,
Lieutenants Poulder and Dawes, of the marines, Mr. Worgan and Mr. Lowes,
surgeons, three sergeants, three corporals, and forty private soldiers,
provided with three days provisions, ropes to bind our prisoners with, and
hatchets and bags to cut off and contain the heads of the slain. By nine
o'clock this terrific procession reached the peninsula at the head of
Botany Bay, but after having walked in various directions until four
o'clock in the afternoon, without seeing a native, we halted for the night.

At daylight on the following morning our search recommenced. We marched in
an easterly direction, intending to fall in with the south-west arm of the
bay, about three miles above its mouth, which we determined to scour, and
thence passing along the head of the peninsula, to proceed to the north
arm, and complete our Search. However, by a mistake of our guides, at half
past seven o'clock instead of finding ourselves on the south-west arm,
we came suddenly upon the sea shore, at the head of the peninsula, about
midway between the two arms. Here we saw five Indians on the beach, whom we
attempted to surround; but they penetrated our design, and before we could
get near enough to effect our purpose, ran off. We pursued; but a
contest between heavy-armed Europeans, fettered by ligatures, and naked
unencumbered Indians, was too unequal to last long. They darted into the
wood and disappeared.

The alarm being given, we were sensible that no hope of success remained,
but by a rapid movement to a little village (if five huts deserve the name)
which we knew stood on the nearest point of the north arm, where possibly
someone unapprised of our approach, might yet be found. Thither we
hastened; but before we could reach it three canoes, filled with Indians,
were seen paddling over in the utmost hurry and trepidation, to the
opposite shore, where universal alarm prevailed. All we could now do was to
search the huts for weapons of war: but we found nothing except fish gigs,
which we left untouched.

On our return to our baggage (which we had left behind under a small guard
near the place where the pursuit had begun) we observed a native fishing in
shallow water not higher than his waist, at the distance of 300 yards from
the land. In such a situation it would not have been easily practicable
either to shoot, or seize him. I therefore determined to pass without
noticing him, as he seemed either from consciousness of his own security,
or from some other cause, quite unintimidated at our appearance. At length
he called to several of us by name, and in spite of our formidable array,
drew nearer with unbounded confidence. Surprised at his behaviour I ordered
a halt, that he might overtake us, fully resolved, whoever he might be,
that he should be suffered to come to us and leave us uninjured. Presently
we found it to be our friend Colbee; and he joined us at once with his
wonted familiarity and unconcern. We asked him where Pimelwi was, and found
that he perfectly comprehended the nature of our errand, for he described
him to have fled to the southward; and to be at such a distance, as had we
known the account to be true, would have prevented our going in search of
him, without a fresh supply of provisions.

When we arrived at our baggage, Colbee sat down, ate, drank, and slept with
us, from ten o'clock until past noon. We asked him several questions about
Sydney, which he had left on the preceding day*; and he told us he had been
present at an operation performed at the hospital, where Mr. White had cut
off a woman's leg. The agony and cries of the poor sufferer he depicted in
a most lively manner.

[*He had it seems visited the governor about noon, after having gained
information from Nanbaree of our march, and for what purpose it was
undertaken. This he did not scruple to tell to the governor; proclaiming
at the same time, a resolution of going to Botany Bay, which his excellency
endeavoured to dissuade him from by every argument he could devise: a
blanket, a hatchet, a jacket, or aught else he would ask for, was offered
to him in vain, if he would not go. At last it was determined to try to eat
him down, by setting before him his favourite food, of which it was hoped
he would feed so voraciously, as to render him incapable of executing his
intention. A large dish of fish was accordingly set before him. But after
devouring a light horseman, and at least five pounds of beef and bread,
even until the sight of food became disgusting to him, he set out on his
journey with such lightness and gaiety, as plainly shewed him to be a
stranger to the horrors of indigestion.]

At one o'clock we renewed our march, and at three halted near a freshwater
swamp, where we resolved to remain until morning: that is, after a day of
severe fatigue, to pass a night of restless inquietude, when weariness is
denied repose by swarms of mosquitoes and sandflies, which in the summer
months bite and sting the traveller, without measure or intermission.

Next morning we bent our steps homeward; and, after wading breast-high
through two arms of the sea, as broad as the Thames at Westminster, were
glad to find ourselves at Sydney, between one and two o'clock in the
afternoon.

The few remarks which I was able to make on the country through which we
had passed, were such as will not tempt adventurers to visit it on the
score of pleasure or advantage. The soil of every part of the peninsula,
which we had traversed, is shallow and sandy, and its productions meagre
and wretched. When forced to quit the sand, we were condemned to drag
through morasses, or to clamber over rocks, unrefreshed by streams, and
unmarked by diversity. Of the soil I brought away several specimens.

Our first expedition having so totally failed, the governor resolved to try
the fate of a second; and the 'painful pre-eminence' again devolved on me.

The orders under which I was commanded to act differing in no respect
from the last, I resolved to try once more to surprise the village
beforementioned. And in order to deceive the natives, and prevent them
from again frustrating our design by promulgating it, we feigned that our
preparations were directed against Broken Bay; and that the man who
had wounded the governor was the object of punishment. It was now also
determined, being full moon, that our operations should be carried on in
the night, both for the sake of secrecy, and for avoiding the extreme heat
of the day.

A little before sun-set on the evening of the 22nd, we marched. Lieutenant
Abbot, and ensign Prentice, of the New South Wales corps, were the two
officers under my command, and with three sergeants, three corporals, and
thirty privates, completed the detachment.

We proceeded directly to the fords of the north arm of Botany Bay, which we
had crossed in our last expedition, on the banks of which we were compelled
to wait until a quarter past two in the morning, for the ebb of the tide.
As these passing-places consist only of narrow slips of ground, on each
side of which are dangerous holes; and as fording rivers in the night is at
all times an unpleasant task, I determined before we entered the water,
to disburthen the men as much as possible; that in case of stepping wrong
every one might be as ready, as circumstances would admit, to recover
himself. The firelock and cartouche-box were all that we carried, the
latter tied fast on the top of the head, to prevent it from being wetted.
The knapsacks, etc. I left in charge of a sergeant and six men, who from
their low stature and other causes, were most likely to impede our march,
the success of which I knew hinged on our ability, by a rapid movement, to
surprise the village before daybreak.

The two rivers were crossed without any material accident: and in pursuit
of my resolution, I ordered the guides to conduct us by the nearest route,
without heeding difficulty, or impediment of road. Having continued to push
along the river-bank very briskly for three quarters of an hour, we were
suddenly stopped by a creek, about sixty yards wide, which extended to our
right, and appeared dry from the tide being out: I asked if it could be
passed, or whether it would be better to wheel round the head of it. Our
guides answered that it was bad to cross, but might be got over, which
would save us more than a quarter of a mile. Knowing the value of time, I
directly bade them to push through, and every one began to follow as well
as he could. They who were foremost had not, however, got above half over
when the difficulty of progress was sensibly experienced. We were immersed,
nearly to the waist in mud, so thick and tenacious, that it was not without
the most vigorous exertion of every muscle of the body, that the legs could
be disengaged. When we had reached the middle, our distress became not only
more pressing, but serious, and each succeeding step, buried us deeper. At
length a sergeant of grenadiers stuck fast, and declared himself incapable
of moving either forward or backward; and just after, Ensign Prentice and
I felt ourselves in a similar predicament, close together. 'I find it
impossible to move; I am sinking;' resounded on every side. What to do
I knew not: every moment brought increase of perplexity, and augmented
danger, as those who could not proceed kept gradually subsiding. From our
misfortunes, however, those in the rear profited. Warned by what they saw
and heard, they inclined to the right towards the head of the creek, and
thereby contrived to pass over.

Our distress would have terminated fatally, had not a soldier cried out
to those on shore to cut boughs of trees*, and throw them to us--a lucky
thought, which certainly saved many of us from perishing miserably; and
even with this assistance, had we been burdened by our knapsacks, we could
not have emerged; for it employed us near half an hour to disentangle some
of our number. The sergeant of grenadiers in particular, was sunk to his
breast-bone, and so firmly fixed in that the efforts of many men were
required to extricate him, which was effected in the moment after I had
ordered one of the ropes, destined to bind the captive Indians, to be
fastened under his arms.

[*I had often read of this contrivance to facilitate the passage of a
morass. But I confess, that in my confusion I had entirely forgotten it,
and probably should have continued to do so until too late to be of use.]

Having congratulated each other on our escape from this 'Serbonian Bog,'
and wiped our arms (half of which were rendered unserviceable by the mud)
we once more pushed forward to our object, within a few hundred yards of
which we found ourselves about half an hour before sunrise. Here I formed
the detachment into three divisions, and having enjoined the most perfect
silence, in order, if possible, to deceive Indian vigilance, each division
was directed to take a different route, so as to meet at the village at the
same moment.

We rushed rapidly on, and nothing could succeed more exactly than the
arrival of the several detachments. To our astonishment, however, we found
not a single native at the huts; nor was a canoe to be seen on any part of
the bay. I was at first inclined to attribute this to our arriving half an
hour too late, from the numberless impediments we had encountered. But
on closer examination, there appeared room to believe, that many days had
elapsed since an Indian had been on the spot, as no mark of fresh fires, or
fish bones, was to be found.

Disappointed and fatigued, we would willingly have profited by the
advantage of being near water, and have halted to refresh. But on
consultation, it was found, that unless we reached in an hour the rivers
we had so lately passed, it would be impossible, on account of the tide,
to cross to our baggage, in which case we should be without food until
evening. We therefore pushed back, and by dint of alternately running and
walking, arrived at the fords, time enough to pass with ease and safety.
So excessive, however, had been our efforts, and so laborious our progress,
that several of the soldiers, in the course of the last two miles, gave up,
and confessed themselves unable to proceed farther. All that I could do for
these poor fellows, was to order their comrades to carry their muskets, and
to leave with them a small party of those men who were least exhausted, to
assist them and hurry them on. In three quarters of an hour after we
had crossed the water, they arrived at it, just time enough to effect a
passage.

The necessity of repose, joined to the succeeding heat of the day, induced
us to prolong our halt until four o'clock in the afternoon, when we
recommenced our operations on the opposite side of the north arm to that
we had acted upon in the morning. Our march ended at sunset, without
our seeing a single native. We had passed through the country which the
discoverers of Botany Bay extol as 'some of the finest meadows in the
world*.' These meadows, instead of grass, are covered with high coarse
rushes, growing in a rotten spongy bog, into which we were plunged
knee-deep at every step.

[*The words which are quoted may be found in Mr. Cook's first voyage, and
form part of his description of Botany Bay. It has often fallen to my lot
to traverse these fabled plains; and many a bitter execration have I heard
poured on those travellers, who could so faithlessly relate what they saw.]

Our final effort was made at half past one o'clock next morning; and after
four hours toil, ended as those preceding it had done, in disappointment
and vexation. At nine o'clock we returned to Sydney, to report our
fruitless peregrination.

But if we could not retaliate on the murderer of M'Entire, we found no
difficulty in punishing offences committed within our own observation. Two
natives, about this time, were detected in robbing a potato garden. When
seen, they ran away, and a sergeant and a party of soldiers were dispatched
in pursuit of them. Unluckily it was dark when they overtook them, with
some women at a fire; and the ardour of the soldiers transported them so
far that, instead of capturing the offenders, they fired in among them. The
women were taken, but the two men escaped.

On the following day, blood was traced from the fireplace to the sea-side,
where it seemed probable that those who had lost it, had embarked. The
natives were observed to become immediately shy; but an exact knowledge of
the mischief which had been committed, was not gained until the end of two
days, when they said that a man of the name of Bangai (who was known to
be one of the pilferers) was wounded and dead. Imeerawanyee, however,
whispered that though he was wounded, he was not dead. A hope now existed
that his life might be saved; and Mr. White, taking Imeerawanyee, Nanbaree,
and a woman with him, set out for the spot where he was reported to be. But
on their reaching it, they were told by some people who were there that the
man was dead, and that the corpse was deposited in a bay about a mile
off. Thither they accordingly repaired, and found it as described,
covered--except one leg, which seemed to be designedly left bare--with
green boughs and a fire burning near it. Those who had performed the
funeral obsequies seemed to have been particularly solicitous for the
protection of the face, which was covered with a thick branch, interwoven
with grass and fern so as to form a complete screen. Around the neck was
a strip of the bark of which they make fishing lines, and a young strait
stick growing near was stripped of its bark and bent down so as to form an
arch over the body, in which position it was confined by a forked branch
stuck into the earth.

On examining the corpse, it was found to be warm. Through the shoulder had
passed a musquet ball, which had divided the subclavian artery and caused
death by loss of blood. No mark of any remedy having been applied could
be discovered. Possibly the nature of the wound, which even among us would
baffle cure without amputation of the arm at the shoulder, was deemed so
fatal, that they despaired of success, and therefore left it to itself. Had
Mr. White found the man alive, there is little room to think that he
could have been of any use to him; for that an Indian would submit to so
formidable and alarming an operation seems hardly probable.

None of the natives who had come in the boat would touch the body, or even
go near it, saying, the mawn would come; that is literally, 'the spirit of
the deceased would seize them'. Of the people who died among us, they had
expressed no such apprehension. But how far the difference of a natural
death, and one effected by violence, may operate on their fears to induce
superstition; and why those who had performed the rites of sepulture should
not experience similar fears and reluctance, I leave to be determined.
Certain it is (as I shall insist upon more hereafter), that they believe
the spirit of the dead not to be extinct with the body.

Baneelon took an odd method of revenging the death of his countryman. At
the head of several of his tribe, he robbed one of the private boats of
fish, threatening the people, who were unarmed, that in case they resisted
he would spear them. On being taxed by the governor with this outrage, he
at first stoutly denied it; but on being confronted with the people who
were in the boat, he changed his language, and, without deigning even to
palliate his offence, burst into fury and demanded who had killed Bangai.




CHAPTER XIII.



The Transactions of the Colony continued to the End of May, 1791.


December, 1790. The Dutch snow from Batavia arrived on the 17th of the
month, after a passage of twelve weeks, in which she had lost sixteen of
her people. But death, to a man who has resided at Batavia, is too familiar
an object to excite either terror or regret. All the people of the 'Supply'
who were left there sick, except one midshipman, had also perished in that
fatal climate.

The cargo of the snow consisted chiefly of rice, with a small quantity of
beef, pork, and flour.

A letter was received by this vessel, written by the Shebander at Batavia,
to governor Phillip, acquainting him that war had commenced between England
and Spain. As this letter was written in the Dutch language we did not find
it easy of translation. It filled us, however, with anxious perturbation,
and with wishes as impotent, as they were eager, in the cause of our
country. Though far beyond the din of arms, we longed to contribute to her
glory, and to share in her triumphs.

Placed out of the reach of attack, both by remoteness and insignificancy,
our only dread lay lest those supplies intended for our consumption should
be captured. Not, however, to be found totally unprovided in case an enemy
should appear, a battery was planned near the entrance of Sydney Cove, and
other formidable preparations set on foot.

The commencement of the year 1791, though marked by no circumstances
particularly favourable, beamed far less inauspicious than that of 1790 had
done.

January, 1791. No circumstance, however apparently trivial, which can
tend to throw light on a new country, either in respect of its present
situation, or its future promise, should pass unregarded. On the 24th of
January, two bunches of grapes were cut in the governor's garden, from
cuttings of vines brought three years before from the Cape of Good Hope.
The bunches were handsome, the fruit of a moderate size, but well filled
out and the flavour high and delicious.

The first step after unloading the Dutch snow was to dispatch the 'Supply'
to Norfolk Island for captain Hunter, and the crew of the 'Sirius' who had
remained there ever since the loss of that ship. It had always been the
governor's wish to hire the Dutchman, for the purpose of transporting them
to England. But the frantic extravagant behaviour of the master of her, for
a long time frustrated the conclusion of a contract. He was so totally
lost to a sense of reason and propriety, as to ask eleven pounds per ton,
monthly, for her use, until she should arrive from England, at Batavia.
This was treated with proper contempt; and he was at last induced to accept
twenty shillings a ton, per month (rating her at three hundred tons) until
she should arrive in England--being about the twenty-fifth part of his
original demand. And even at this price she was, perhaps, the dearest
vessel ever hired on a similar service, being totally destitute of every
accommodation and every good quality which could promise to render so long
a voyage either comfortable or expeditious.

February, 1791. On the 26th, Captain Hunter, his officers and ship's
company joined us; and on the 28th of March the snow sailed with them for
England, intending to make a northern passage by Timor and Batavia, the
season being too far advanced to render the southern route by Cape Horn
practicable*.

[*They did not arrive in England until April, 1792.]

Six days previous to the departure of captain Hunter, the indefatigable
'Supply' again sailed for Norfolk Island, carrying thither captain Hill
and a detachment of the New South Wales corps. A little native boy named
Bondel, who had long particularly attached himself to captain Hill,
accompanied him, at his own earnest request. His father had been killed in
battle and his mother bitten in two by a shark: so that he was an orphan,
dependant on the humanity of his tribe for protection*. His disappearance
seemed to make no impression on the rest of his countrymen, who were
apprized of his resolution to go. On the return of the 'Supply' they
inquired eagerly for him, and on being told that the place he was gone
to afforded plenty of birds and other good fare, innumerable volunteers
presented themselves to follow him, so great was their confidence in us and
so little hold of them had the amor patriae.

[*I am of opinion that such protection is always extended to children who
may be left destitute.]


March, 1791. The snow had but just sailed, when a very daring manoeuvre was
carried into execution, with complete success, by a set of convicts, eleven
in number, including a woman, wife of one of the party, and two little
children. They seized the governor's cutter and putting into her a
seine, fishing-lines, and hooks, firearms, a quadrant, compass, and some
provisions, boldly pushed out to sea, determined to brave every danger and
combat every hardship, rather than remain longer in a captive state. Most
of these people had been brought out in the first fleet, and the terms of
transportation of some of them were expired. Among them were a fisherman,
a carpenter, and some competent navigators, so that little doubt was
entertained that a scheme so admirably planned would be adequately
executed*. When their elopement was discovered, a pursuit was ordered
by the governor. But the fugitives had made too good an use of the
intermediate time to be even seen by their pursuers. After the escape of
Captain Bligh, which was well known to us, no length of passage or hazard
of navigation seemed above human accomplishment. However to prevent future
attempts of a like nature, the governor directed that boats only of stated
dimensions should be built. Indeed an order of this sort had been issued
on the escape of the first party, and it was now repeated with additional
restrictions.

[*It was my fate to fall in again with part of this little band of
adventurers. In March 1792, when I arrived in the Gorgon, at the Cape of
Good Hope, six of these people, including the woman and one child, were put
on board of us to be carried to England. Four had died, and one had jumped
overboard at Batavia. The particulars of their voyage were briefly as
follows. They coasted the shore of New Holland, putting occasionally into
different harbours which they found in going along. One of these harbours,
in the latitude of 30 degrees south, they described to be of superior
excellence and capacity. Here they hauled their bark ashore, paid her seams
with tallow, and repaired her. But it was with difficulty they could keep
off the attacks of the Indians. These people continued to harras them so
much that they quitted the mainland and retreated to a small island in
the harbour, where they completed their design. Between the latitude of 26
degrees and 27 degrees, they were driven by a current 30 leagues from the
shore, among some islands, where they found plenty of large turtles. Soon
after they closed again with the continent, when the boat got entangled in
the surf and was driven on shore, and they had all well nigh perished. They
passed rough the straits of Endeavour and, beyond the gulf of Carpentaria,
found a large freshwater river, which they entered, and filled from it
their empty casks.

Until they reached the gulf of Carpentaria, they saw no natives or canoes
differing from those about Port Jackson. But now they were chased by large
canoes, jitted with sails and fighting stages, and capable of holding
thirty men each. They escaped by dint of rowing to windward. On the 5th
of June 1791 they reached Timor, and pretended that they had belonged to a
ship which, on her passage from Port Jackson to India, had foundered;
and that they only had escaped. The Dutch received them with kindness
and treated them with hospitality. But their behaviour giving rise to
suspicion, they were watched; and one of them at last, in a moment of
intoxication, betrayed the secret. They were immediately secured and
committed to prison. Soon after Captain Edwards of the Pandora, who had
been wrecked near Endeavour straits, arrived at Timor, and they were
delivered up to him, by which means they became passengers in the Gorgon.

I confess that I never looked at these people without pity and
astonishment. They had miscarried in a heroic struggle for liberty after
having combated every hardship and conquered every difficulty.

The woman, and one of the men, had gone out to Port Jackson in the ship
which had transported me thither. They had both of them been always
distinguished for good behaviour. And I could not but reflect with
admiration at the strange combination of circumstances which had again
brought us together, to baffle human foresight and confound human
speculation.]


April, 1791. Notwithstanding the supplies which had recently arrived from
Batavia, short allowance was again proclaimed on the 2nd of April, on which
day we were reduced to the following ration:

Three pounds of rice, three pounds of flour and three pounds of pork per
week.

It was singularly unfortunate that these retrenchments should always happen
when the gardens were most destitute of vegetables. A long drought had
nearly exhausted them. The hardships which we in consequence suffered were
great, but not comparable to what had been formerly experienced. Besides,
now we made sure of ships arriving soon to dispel our distress. Whereas,
heretofore, from having never heard from England, the hearts of men sunk
and many had begun to doubt whether it had not been resolved to try how
long misery might be endured with resignation.

Notwithstanding the incompetency of so diminished a pittance, the daily
task of the soldier and convict continued unaltered. I never contemplated
the labours of these men without finding abundant cause of reflection on
the miseries which our nature can overcome. Let me for a moment quit the
cold track of narrative. Let me not fritter away by servile adaptation
those reflections and the feelings they gave birth to. Let me transcribe
them fresh as they arose, ardent and generous, though hopeless and
romantic. I every day see wretches pale with disease and wasted with
famine, struggle against the horror's of their situation. How striking is
the effect of subordination; how dreadful is the fear of punishment! The
allotted task is still performed, even on the present reduced subsistence.
The blacksmith sweats at the sultry forge, the sawyer labours pent-up in
his pit and the husbandman turns up the sterile glebe. Shall I again hear
arguments multiplied to violate truth, and insult humanity! Shall I again
be told that the sufferings of the wretched Africans are indi

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