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RALPH CLARK: Aug 1790-Feb 91

AUG 1790 – February 1791

August Sunday 1st Blows fresh did not Send the Boats out to day not much Surf.

Munday 2d Blows fresh from the N:west the Surf Rising.

Tuesday 3rd Squaly and a great Sea from the S.W. a good dele of Surf

Wednesday 4th Squaly from the Southward about 12 oClock the whole Town was in an uproar with the News of a Ship in Sight Capt. Johnstone and myself went on the top of Mount George to See if we could See her for we thought that it was all a fals alarm but we were Soon convinced of the Truth of the Report for we Saw her a fine large Ship off Balls Bay with English Colours flying I Returnd my prayers and thanks to the Almighty for delivery use from the dreadfull Situation that we have had before use for these Some time past the people that were Sick with the Joy of the Ship being in Sight got out of ther Beds and forgot there pains as the wind is against her and blowing fresh She will not be able to get in to this Bay to day and the Surf is too great to Send the Boat out to her Captains Hunter, Johnstone and Some of the People went over to Cascade Bay after dinner to See if the[y] could make a Signal to her for her to Send her Boat on Shore ther to know where She is from and if She has got any Provisions for use but how Shall I discribe the dreadful information when Capt. Johnstone Returnd my poor pen is not able to paint the Melancholy and tremerthat I was Sezed with when he informd use that he had Stayd with Capt Hunter untill it was near dark and that the[y] had made Signals to the Ship by fire &c. and that She was within two miles of the Shore in Cascade Bay but that the[y] took no notice of the Signals that the[y] Sett there Studing Sails and went a way to the Northward with a fair wind and that when the[y] left Cascade Bay She was not in Sight from the highest ground there oh my God what can all this be are we Still doom to Starve this is the most cruelest thing that ever happend to any Set of people under heaven her appearing in Sight this Morning was to every body the Same as a reprive from death and then to leave us I don't know what to make of it in Consequence of her appearing in Sight whome we flaterd ourselves was brining use good News the Lieut Governor and Council has directed the Store Keeper to Issue half a weeks Ration of Salt Provisions to Every Individual I who flatterd myself this forenoon when first I saw her that by this time I Should have had Some letters from My belovd wife but no Such good fortune comes Yet to my lot I must wait with patience a little longer.

Thursday 5th Much the Same weather as Yesterday no Ship in Sight from Mount Pit which is the highest Ground in the Island I wish to God the Ship which we Saw Yesterday had never appeard in Sight for She has made every body almost dispond it has made me almost Stupid the Surf gone down very much.

Friday 6th Fine weather not much Surf but Still no Ship in Sight or any thing like a Ship I some times think that it was only a dream that the Ship was in Sight if there had not been more people besides myself that had Seen her I should not think other wise but that it was only a dream.

Saterday 7th I was a waked a little after day light with the Noise of a Ship being in Sight I did not Remain long in bed after went up on the top of Mount George and Saw her a great way of to the Southward fine weather a little Surf Majr. Ross askd me when She came a little nearer in if I would goe out in the Boat and goe on Board of her and bring on Shore the despatches and the letters I told him I would with pleasure the wind being against her She did not come in much Nearer than when we first Saw her this morning about four oClock in the afternoon I went out in the Coble being Resolved to get on board of her if I could althought She then was not in Sight after I had got about two miles from the Shore in looking to the Windward I Saw a nother Ship within a few miles of us and She coming towards us Right before the Wind I order the Boat to goe for her a little after Sun Set I got on board of her and found her to be the Surprize of London, Captain Anstos from Port Jackson after getting [*] and Convicts for this Island and that the other Ship which was but just in Sight from the mast head of the Surprize was the Justinian Store Ship also with Provisions but no Convicts for this Island after getting all the letter that were on board I got into the Boat and Came Save on Shore again Anstos was first Mate of the Lady Penryn when he came out with us he was very glad to See me & I much more So him on Account of his brining use Some thing to eat on my Coming on Shore I gave all the letters &c. to Majr. Ross who delived them to the officers and people as the[y] were directed – there was but very few for any body on Account that all the letters were on board of the other Ship as She had Saild from Port Jackson before the Surprize I hope She will be able to Send them on Shore to Morrow I am happy to heer that a Corps is come out for the Relief of use the Ship which we Saw on 4 of this month the[y] Say on board of the Surprize must be the Lady Juliana from Port Jackson bound to Chinia as the Captain of her Said that he would call here if he could all the harm that I wish him is that I hope that he will goe to Hell for not calling when he could with So little trouble to himself.

Sunday 8th Fine weather and both Ships close in no Surf Sent the Boat out one to goe on board of the Justinian and the other to goe on board of the Surprize Sent the Boat full of Greens for the Ships the Boat from the Justinian Returnd Soon after with the letters and found amongst them four from my belovd wife and that She and my dear little fellow are well also Received one from Mr. Bar Mr Creswell also gave me two which came inclosed in Mrs. Creswell from my Betsey Received also a kind letter from Kempster and one from Mr. Woolrige in Closing a letter of atory. for me to Sign at the Same time informing of the Death of Mr. Hartwell which I am very Sorry for – I Return my Betsey a thousand thank for her Kind letters I find the things which I wrote for She Sent on board of the Guardian and I am affraid I Shall never be able to get them as all the private property which was on board that Ship is lost from the Accident which happend to that Ship the Boat Empd. in Getting what the[y] can from the Ship but not to bring any of the Convicts on Shore before there is more Provisions on Shore to give them to eat the letter from Mr. [blank] is recommending a Mr. Murray Surgeon of the Justinian to my protection and to Show him any Sivility that may be in my powr I have Sent of a not for him to come on Shore to dinner which he did he appears to be a very Genteel young man Major Ross gave me a letter from Captain Campble what came inclosed from Captain Campble to him for the letters See the letter Book Captain Campble  pos;s letter is a very Kind one.

Munday 9th Fine weather little Surf the Boats Empd. in Landing Provisions Stores &c. from the Ships .

Tuesday 10th Much the Same weather as Yesterday the Ships did not come into the Bay before 10 oClock the Boats Empd. as Yesterday the Surf appears if it was going to get up.

Wednesday 11th Blows fresh at times not So much Surf to prevent the Boats from going out Empd. as Yesterday the Governor has been pleased to appoint Mr. Freeman to be Depute Commissary for Norfolk Island as Such he Supperceeds me as Keeper of the Public Stores and Majr. Ross has order him to be obeyd a Such and immediatly to take into his charge all the Stores & Provisions See the orderly Book where you will also See the Encouragment which is held out to the Non Commissioned officers and Private men of the Detachment of marines who wish to be come Settlers in this country or to incorporate themselves as Soldier in the New Raised Corps which is come out for the Service of this Colony .

Thursday 12th Blows fresh too much Surf to Send the Boats out with Safety The Ships are gone to the other Side of the Island toCascadeBaywhere the[y] may lay the Same if in a Mill pond but the[y] cannot land any Provisions with Safety

Friday 13 Blows hard from the Southward the[y] Landed Some of People at Cascade Bay Captain Maitland of the Justinian came over from Cascade and Staid all night with use.

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Saterday 14th Fine clear weather & Blows hard from the Southward the[y] under the Land inCascadeBay.

Sunday 15th Fine Weather not So much wind as there was Yesterday a good dele of Surf on the Reef.

Munday 16th Fine weather little wind and not much Surf the Ships came intothe Bay about Seven oClock and the Boats went of to them and Brought on Shore Provisions Stores &c. and what was nearest at hand for the Island the[y] also Brought Some men and women Convicts.

Tuesday 17th Fine Moderate weather the Ships came into the Bay about 8 oClock the Boats went of to them to Land the Provisions Stores people &c. the Large cutter Beloning to the Sirius in coming on shore from the Surprize with 4 four casks of Salt Provisions Six women Convicts and a Young child beloning to one of the women Just as the Boat was coming into the passaged a Surf Struck the Boat and nearly filld her as well as forced the Boat on the Reef the next Sea that came Struck the Boat again and She parted in the middle when every body in the Boat was floating about in the Surf in the Sight of near five hundred people within a few Yeards of use and we could give them very little assistance the Tide running too Strong by which accident Jas. Coventry, David Bain, two Seamen beloning to the Sirius who were part of the Boats Crue, Johnstone, Caddy, Chaffey and the child were all drowned as also Jno. Roberts a Convict who went in to assist them was also drownd the mother of the child is one of the three women that are Saved it was a Shocking Sight to See So manny of our fellow creatures Strugling for life and we only able to give them very little Assistance and that little at the Risk of our own lives I had my Coat of to goe in to there assistance and Should have gone if one of the Convicts had not advised me not to goe in and I am now very Glad that I did not for it is very likely but what I should have Shard the Same fate that Jno. Roberts did the other boats have been Empd the Remainder of the day in Landing the People Provisions &c. Mr. Murray came on Shore to Stay a few days with I must make him up a Bed on the floor.

Wednesday 18th Fine weather little Surf the People and Boats Empd as Yesterday getting what Provisions from the Ships that the[y] can.

Thursday 19th Cloudy weather little Surf the Boats Empd. as before Punished with 5 Lashes and put Jones in Irons at the Grind Stone for going to Cascade without Leave and having the bed in there possesion beloning to one of the Women that Landed a Cascade last week which the Woman Said was Stole from her in the wood in the night as She was obligd to Sleep in the woods all that night that She Landed as She was not able to walk into town.

Friday 20th Fine Moderate weather the Boats Empd as before .

Saterday 21st Fine Clear and Moderate weather the Boats Empd. as Yesterday and the people Empd. in rolling the provisions up to the Store Jones that went to Cascade on wednesday night last without leave and was put in Irons for it at the Grind Stone picked the lock of the Irons last night and is gone into the woods.

Sunday 22d Much the Same weather as Yesterday the Ships came in to the Bay early Sent the Boats of for Provisions and Stores the[y] have been/the Ships/most liberal Supplyd with all Kinds of Cabbage Turnips and all other Kinds of Guardin Stuf Since the[y] have been heer for ther has not a day gone past but what each Ship has had Sent them two Boats load of all Kinds of Greens &c.

Munday 23th Fine weather little Surf the Boats Empd. in brining from the Ships what things the[y] have on board of the Settlement.

Tuesday 24th Fine moderate weather the Boats Empd. as before every thing will be out of the Ships in a day or two and they will Sail in day or two after So will begin to write my letters that I may want to Send by them.

Wednesday 25th Fine weather and no Surf the Ships in the Bay and the Boats have being going to and fro to them all day Mr. Murray and Self went out a Shooting this forenoon he went on board after dinner and has Since come on Shore again as he promised he not been wanted on board I like him very much wrote a letter in answer to the one from Mr. Beveridge.

Thursday 26th Moderate weather and no Surf wrote a long letter to Geo. Kempster as also Sent him Coppies of of the different Resollutions which we enterd into for to Keep life and Soul together .

Friday 27th Moderate weather little Surf Wrote to Mr. Thos. Wolrige also inclosing the letter of Attorney which he Sent me to Sign on Account of the death of Mr. Hartwell witnessed and filld up according to desire I am Sorry to find that the [Blight]* has taken hold of the Corn in Several places I hope that it will not appear in more places than it has donehither to for I never Saw Corn look better than what it dose

Saterday 28 Fine Moderate weather little Surf thank God we have got every thing now out of both Ships and the[y] intend to leave use to Morrow afternoon for China Mr. Murray went on board for good this afternoon I have Sent all my letter under his care as also a Box for my beloved woman Containing a [*] Skin, a pair of Pidgions of this Island, a Mount Pit Bird, a Mutten Bird, a Cock and Hen Robin, a quail, a white Breasted Bird all of this Island I hope my betsey will Receive them Save Sent also under his care a letter for Mr. Wolrige in case any Accident Should happen to the one which I sent Yesterday by the Surprize inclosing the letter of Attorney to enable him to Receive my Subsistance and to pay you my Alicia the Sum which Mr. Hartwell paid you I wish to God that I was going with the Ships .

Sunday 29th little wind only one of the Ships in Sight the Surprize She sent her Boat on Shore to get her Receipt and as She Believes the Justinian is gone that She will make the Best of her way for China also the Boat went on board a bout 12 oClock and She made Sail I wish her a good Voyage .

Munday 30th Blows fresh little Surf the Justinian in Sight Sent the Coble on board She was all Yesterday becalmd which was the Reason She could not come into the Bay She only Waits for the Return of the Coble when She will make Sail to See if She can over take the Surprize at 11 oClock our Coble got on board of her when Soon after She made Sail and I wish them with all my heart a Save and good Voyage to China and from that to England with my dear beloved Alicia letter Mr. Murray Sent my on Shore by the Return of the Coble a little Soap for which I am very much oblige to him for as all mine is out I was glad when the Boat got in again for the Surf got up and it Blew hard from the S:W: which is a fair wind for the Ships

Tuesday 31 Blows fresh and a good dele of Surf the people Empd. as befor the Ships arrived in clearing Ground &c. about 35 men and about the Same number of women in Cutting the flax to endeavour to bring it to perfection at Cascade Farm under a (Mr. Hume) who was Sent her in one of the Ships that came here last by the Govenour who Says that he understands it but for my own part I doe not think that it will ever answer the expectations of Goverment I am no Judge therfor cannot Say they will or they will not

September 1790 Wednesday 1st Blows hard and a great Surf a fine wind for the two Ships.

Thursday 2d Still Blows fresh and a very great Surf it is well that we got the things out of the two Ships So Soon as we did otherwise we should not have been able to have done any thing with them for these two days past on Account of the Surf and ther being too much wind .

Friday 3rd not much wind but a good dele of Surf I shall look out with longing Eyes for the Gorgon Untill She comes to take me a way to every thing that is dear to me on earth

Saterday 4 little wind and little Surf Thos. Streets one of the convicts that was out at work at Charlotte Field has left his work and gone into the wood to live with Gray and Jones the other Runaway Convicts .

Sunday 5th Moderate Weather little Surf .

Munday 6th Fine calm weather little Surf I wish that the fish were come in that the Boat might goe out and get Some for Salt Beef to day and Salt Beef to Morrow and Salt Beef every day dose not agree with me for I have not been very well for these three weeks past .

Tuesday 7th Squaly weather wind S:W: little Surf on the Reef.

Wednesday 8th Blows fresh from the S:W: and a good dele of Surf on the Reef.

Thursday 9th Clear weather with a Strong breeze from the Southward and the Surf getting up very unwell have been taking doctors Stuff for these Several days past and find no Relief by it.

Friday 10th Moderate weather but a great Surf on the Reef doe come good Gorgon for I wish to be a way.

Saterday 11th Moderate weather the Surf going down fast have been very ill have kept my bed all this day and am just got up hope I will find my self better to morrow Sunday 12th.

Fine pleasant Weather not much Surf a little Better

Munday 13 Fine weather little Surf the people Empd. in planting Indian Corn on the hights Round Arthurs Vale and at Charlotte Field.

Tuesday 14th Cloudy weather has had the appearence if it would Rain all this day little Surf .

Wednesday 15th Cloudy dull weather little Surf

Thursday 16th Clear weather & no Surf but no Gorgon I wish to be away from this place for the place begins to be disagreable for a great manny of my Brother officers if not all are jealous of me because I am greatly in favour with Majr. Ross if it is So the[y] have no Occation for if I could I would not doe them an injury although manny of them would me if the[y] had it in there power but I am Concious of having al along acted like ane honest man and a man of honour to my friend and them and all this is because Majr. Ross pays more attention to me than he dose to any of the Rest.

Friday 17th Cloudy weather little Surf.

Saterday 18th Moderate weather inclinable to Rain No Surf on the Reef.

Sunday 19th Clear weather almost a Calm no Surf on the Reef the Blight has got in a mongst the corn very much the[y] will be obliged to pull up a great dele when it is Quit blasted.

Munday 20th Fine Moderate Weather no wind and no Surf the people Empd. in planting Indian Corn wher the Ground is cleard for it and the others in clearing Ground the Women in pulling up the patches where the Blight is amongst the Corn and Replacing it with indian Corn.

Tuesday 21st Fine weather with a Gentle Breeze from the Eastward little Surf on the Reef.

Wednesday 22d Cloudy and inclinable to Rain not much Surf on the Reef.

Thursday 23rd Very Cloudy with Gentle Showrs at times no Surf on the Reef walk to Charlotte Field.

Friday 24th Blows fresh from the the S:W in Squals the Surf getting up.

Saterday 25th a Fresh Breeze from the Southward and a Great Surf on the Reef

Sunday 26 little wind and Fine Weather but a Great Surf Breaking on the Reef not manny Sick.

Munday 27th Fine Calm Weather Still a Great Surf on the Reef.

Tuesday 28th Fine Moderate weather and the Surf going down went out a Shooting this afternoon to Charlotte Field.

Wednesday 29th Blows fresh from the Eastward and little Surf.

Thursday 30th Fine weather and no Surf here is a nother month gone and no Gorgon come Yet I hope She will be heer before the next is gone.

October 1790 Friday 1st Fine Clear weather no Surf.

Saterday 2d Fine weather little wind almost a Calm no Surf on the Reef.

Sunday 3rd Moderate weather little or no Surf walk out to Charlotte Field after dinner very feu Sick.

Munday 4th Blows Strong from the Eastward no Surf.

Tuesday 5th Cloudy Weather it has been inclinable to Rain all this day no Surf walk out to Cascady farm.

Wednesday 6th Squaly weather and at times Blows hard from the S:W: the Surf getting up Phoebe Flatterty a Female Convict Punished at Charlotte Field with 26 Lashes for coming into town from there Repeatly without Leave She was orderd 50 but on her promise of not to doe the like again the Remainder were forgiven her.

Thursday 7th Blows hard from the Southward and a great Surf.

Friday 8th little wind and clear weather but a great Surf.

Saterday 9th Moderate Weather the wind East the Surf going down.

Sunday 10th Fine moderate weather not much Surf walk out to Charlotte Field after Breakfast and Return to dinner Price a male Convict died to day which is the first man that has died a natural on thisIsland .

Munday 11th Clear weather almost a Calm no Surf went a Shooting after breakfast kild a fine pidgeon

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Tuesday 12th Moderate weather little Surf walk out to Charlotte Field after breakfast and Returnd to dinner.

Wednesday 13th Cloudy weather and inclinable to Rain not much Surf.

Thursday 14th Cloudy weather and gentle Shows at times not much Surf.

Friday 15th Squaly weather and blows hard at times the Surf getting up fast.

Saterday 16th Cloudy Weather and hard Shows at times a great Sea Rolling into the Bay with a great Surf on the Reef.

Sunday 17th Squaly Weather Still a great Surf on the Reef wind S:W a good wind for the Gorgan or any thing that is coming here from Port Jackson.

Munday 18th Fair weather wind S: Still a very great Surf walkd out to Charlotte Field after dinner Serjt. Smyths Indian Corn full of the Catterpillars as also all the wheat beloning to the Crown next his Corn which they will Quite destroy.

Tuesday 19th Fine Moderate Weather the Surf going down

Wednesday 20 Clear Moderate Weather with little Surf walk out to Charlotte Field after Breakfast and Returnd to dinner Punished Chale. White a Famele Convict for telling a Liy to the Centinell a good looking woman but a great thief She Received only 6 Lashes.

Thursday 21st Clear Moderate weather little Surf walked out to Charlotte Field before dinner.

Friday 22d Fine Weather and no Surf.

Saterday 23rd Fine weather little wind and no Surf I wish the Fish would come in for I am Quite Sick of Salt Beef and Salt Pork I cannot eat doe come good Gorgon.

Sunday 24th Fine weather little or no Surf.

Munday 25th Cloudy Weather no Surf a good number of the Convicts Sick Supposed from the Copper Kettles in which they dress there Meat in

Tuesday 26 Moderate Weather and no Surf.

Wednesday 27th Cloudy weather very much inclinable to Rain to day no Surf on the Reef

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October 1790 Thursday 28th Moderate weather no Surf on the Reef I never Saw any thing like the Catter pillars so thick as the[y] are on Serjt. Smyths Corn and on the Pease and Beans beloning to Government I am affraid that the[y] will distroy all the Corn on theIslandif the[y] goe on as the[y] have done Since the 18th. of this month.

Friday 29th Moderate weather and no Surf but thousands and thousands of Catter pillards the ground is Cover with them .

Saterday 30th Moderate weather not much Surf .

Sunday 31st Fine moderate weather not much Surf a nother month gone over our heads and no Gorgon I am affraid Some thing has happend to her or She must not have left England when the Governour Says he Expected She would if She dont come Soon it will be very late in the Season to Send use a Way from this Country .

Noverr 1790 Munday 1st Fine weather with little Surf the People Empd. as last month in clearing Ground &c.

Tuesday 2d Clear moderate weather and no Surf .

Wednesday 3rd Cloudy weather no Surf it Raind a little in the night walk out to Cascady Farm before dinner .

Thursday 4th Cloudy weather and inclinable to Rain no Surf on the Reef Walkd out to Charlottes Field after dinner .

Friday 5th Moderate Weather and no Surf .

Saterday 6th Fine Moderate weather little Surf Sent the Boat over to Phillip Island and land my Servant and one of the Boats Crew to Endeavour to get Tropic Birds and the Remainder to goe a Fishing She Returnd about half after twelf with 23 fish and 4 Tropic Birds

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Nover. 1790 Sunday 7th Fine Weather and little Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing and to Endeavour to get Birds on Phillip Island the Same as Yesterday the Boat Returned about one oClock with 21 fish and five Tropic Birds and a Young one.

Munday 8th Fine Weather in the Morning and little Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing and for Birds the Same as before She had hardly got well over to the Island when it came on to blow which obliged them todisist going on the Island and as it had the appearence if it would blow very hard the[y] made the best of ther way back and the[y] got Save in when it came on to blow very hard and the Surf Rising very fast the[y] Brought in with them 17 fine Salmon fish which were distributed amongst the officers by one of the Men Burning the wood of the Ground which he was clearing for a Guardin for himself at Charlottes Field the blaze caught one of the hedges/which divides the fields beloning to the Public and Private individuals ground/and distroyd a good dele of Corn Majr. Ross begd. of me to goe out and See what damage the fire had done on which little John and I walkd out we found not So much of the Corn distroyd as Mr. Dodge had Represented to be burnt there is about two Acres of Indian Corn burnt & by the people Exerting themselves the[y] got the fire under and prevented it doing any damage to the wheat.

Tuesday 9th Cloudy weather and blows very hard from the N:W: the Surf going down again Sent the Boat out She Returnd about half after ten with 38 Salmon fish.

Wednesday 10th Dirty Rainy weather and has blown hard from the S:E: all this day not much Surf on the Reef.

Thursday 11th Blows fresh from the S:E: and a great Surf on the Reef

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Novr. 1790 Friday 12th Clear weather blows fresh from the S:E: not So much Surf as Yesterday little John and I walked out to Charlotte Field to see how the[y] have worked Since I was ther last and if the[y] have planted all the Indian Corn which the[y] Received for that purpose.

Saterday 13th Moderate weather not much Surf the wind got round to the Westward hope it will bring the Gorgon for I long to know what is to be come of me if I am to goe home or if any thing will be offerd me to induce me to Remain in this Country a few Years longer.

Sunday 14th Clear weather with a Strong Breeze from the Southward and a good dele of Surf on the Reef after Parade Majr. Ross, Little John & I walked out to Smiths Farm from which throu the woods we intended to have gone to Balls Bay but our Guide lost his way we Returnd back by Phillimors Farm home to dinner after a fatiguin walkd.

Munday 15th Fine Moderate weather the Surf going down the people Empd. as last week in Clearing Ground &c. Wm. Colling and Jas. McKay two Convicts were Punished with 50 Lashes each to day for advising the people to apply to have more time given them I have been all this day Empd. in Measuring the Ground Cleard beloning to the Public round Arthurs Vale.

Tuesday 16th Fine moderate weather Several Gangs of the men convicts and the greatest part of the women convicts Empd. in taking up the Potatoes beloning to the Public.

Wednesday 17th Moderate weather and little Surf the Same number of male convicts Empd. as Yesterday in taking up the potatoes as Yesterday walkd out to Charlotte Field before dinner.

Thursday 18th Fine delightfull weather and no Surf walked out toCharlottefield at day breake (and Returned back to Breakfast) and orderd Mr. Dodge to take up no more potatoes at Charlotte Field than what would Serve the people there the people Empd. in taking up potatoes in the Vale as Yesterday

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Novr. 1790 Thursday 18th Detected two of the Convicts in the Vale in Stealing Potatoes I orderd them to be confined and I hope they both will have a good flogging to Morrow

Friday 19th Fine weather the Boat went out this morning to Phillip Island for Tropic Birds after which to goe a fishing She Returnd about 12 oClock and brought in 34 fish and the[y] were only able to get 4 Tropic Birds the two Convicts John Howard and John Spencer who I confind for Stealing Potatoes Yesterday were Punished with 50 Lashes each to day twelf of the women Convicts were absent from carring the Potatoes to the Potatoe House this morning Orderd them to workd all day tomorrow as a Punishment.

Saterday 20th Fine Mild weather little Surf Sent the Boat a fishing and to Phillip Island for Birds She Returnd about one oClock with 18 fish and Seven Tropic Birds.

Sunday 21st Fine moderate and Pleasent Weather Sent the Boat for Birds and Fishing She Returnd about 12 oClock with only 4 fish and 10 Tropic Birds no Surf.

Munday 22d Moderate weather no Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing She cameback with fish for dinner 34 the people Employd in taking up the Potatoes and the Women in Carring them a way to the Potatoe House Six women Sent to Phillimors Farm to Pick the Catter Pillars of from the Indian Corn walked out to Charlotte Field before dinner to See how the[y] come on there in clearing Ground.

Tuesday 23rd Fine Calm weather no Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing this morning She Returnd about one oClock with 50 Snappers the day has been Remarkably hott.

Wednesday 24th Much the Same weather as we had Yesterday the first part of the day in the afternoon Slight Showers Sent the Boat out a fishing She Returnd about 3 oClock with 3 Tropic Birds and 38 Fish Elizabeth Colley one of the Convict women was brought to Bed of a Boy

Novembr 1790 Thursday 25 Very Fine Weather but it has been very warm all day the Boat went out a fishing and brought in 49 Snappers went out early to Charlotte Field to Measure the Ground there beloning to the Public after Breakfast Majr. Ross and little John came out to me after having Measurd all the Ground Majr. Ross, Mr. Dodge and my Self went to See the place where Serjt. Clayfield intended Settling as he means to Settle in the Country after looking at the place which I dont admire we Returnd back to dinner to Charlotte Field we dinned Under the Shade of a Tree coverd over with Vines after walking Round all the Field Returnd Home no Surf on the Reef.

Friday 26th Cloudy weather and inclinable to Rain little wind and no Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing in the Morning She Returnd back before dinner with 69 Snappers She went out again after dinner to Phillip Island to See and get Some Tropic Birds Mr. Faddy went in her She Returnd at Sun Sett without any Birds the[y] had all nearly been drownd for after landing the Coxwain Mr. Faddy Said he would not land but would Stay in the Boat while the Coxwain was getting up the Clifts at the Birds the[y] put the Boat off a little way when the[y] got over a Sunking Rock a Ground Swell rose and brock right in the middle of the Boat which fild her and they all being frightend the[y] all got on one Side of the Boat which over Set her and the Next Sea that Brock turnd the Boat Bottom uppermost the[y] Say that the Boat was over Set three times and the Sea by good fortune drove her on Shore wher the Sea throw all the people also Save after Recovering from the terrible Situation that the[y] were in the[y] got the Boat in the water again although almost Stove to pices She brought them all Save back again – Faddy is very fortunated that he was not drown as he cannot Swim as every body that was in the Boat at the Time may think themselves So – Mr. Faddy lost his Gun, Great Coat and his Cap – the Boats crue lost all there fishing lines and most all there cloaths also a disagreable Accident happend at Charlotte Field to day in felling the Timber which I orderd to be cut down the last time I was out ther for the purpose to let more Air into the Corn a Tree fel on Henry Palmer a male Convict which nearly kild him on the Spot – the Surgeon orderd him to be brought in as the Tree fell on his head – the[y] have Traponded him and find that his brain is injured and that he could not live – he died in about an hour after the Operation – it came on to Rain about Six this Evening and from the appearance it looks if it would Rain all night – I wish it may for it is very much wanted .

Saterday 27th Fine weather no Surf – it Raind the greatest Part of all last night – Sent the Boat out in the Morning – She Returned at noon with 2 Snappers – it has been Remarkably hott all this day and at Sun Set it had the appearence if it was going to Blow and Rain .

Sunday 28th a Fine clear day although it Raind and blowd the greatest part of last night – too much Surf to Send the Boat out and also to much wind in the offining – wind S:W: which is a good wind for the Gorgon if She is coming heer – after Breakfast walked out with Majr. Ross and little John to Charlotte Field to mark out the Ground the Hutts are to be build for the Convicts Returnd back to dinner – all the people orderd in from Cascade Farm to goe to Charlotte Field except Seven men and all the Women who are to assist Mr. Hume in the Flax Bussiness – I dont for my part think the people here will be ever able to make any thing of the Flax so as to make Government any Returns for the Expense that the[y] have already been at

Munday 29th Clear weather with a fresh Breeze from the Southward – too much Sea and Surf to Send the Boat out – after dinner Majr. Ross and little John and Self walkd out to Charlotte Field to See how the[y] come on there – we Returned a little Before Sun Set .

Tuesday 30th Fine Clear weather but too much Surf to Send the Boat out – walked twice out to Charlotte Field once before and once after dinner to direct the people in Building the Houses and in making a Road to there Houses – as Majr. Ross has given me the direction of the little Town which is now begun out there and the ordering of every thing which I may think necessary for that purpose I shall Spend the most of my time out there – most of my Mess mates seem nettled at the ordering and direction of Charlotte Field been given to me if it had been given to any of them I Should not have been Jealous of them for it but if I could have assisted any of them I would have with pleasure

DECEMBER 1790

DEC Wednesday 1st Fine Weather – walked out to Charlotte Field twice the Same as Yesterday – a child beloning to Elizabeth Pipkin died to day – it is a good thing that it is dead poor thing for the mother took no cear of it .

Thursday 2d Fine Moderate weather but a good dele of Surf – walked twice out to Charlotte Field .

Friday 3th Fine weather – almost a calm but a great Surf on the Reef – walkd out to Charlotte Field after Breakfast to give Some directions about a Road and how fare I wish to have the Ground cleared where I intend the Houses to be Build – after marking out the Road and the Ground for the principle Street Returnd home to dinner – it has been Remarkably hot to day.

Saterday 4th Fine Calm weather not So much Surf as Yesterday – after Breakfast Majr. Ross, John and Self walked out to Charlotte Field to see what progress I have made this last week and he is very much pleased with what I have done and told me that it is a much better place to Build a Town than the place where he intended to have Built – I am very Glad it has met with his approbation as the frams of two of the Houses are all Ready to put to gether – I hope I shall be able to get them and two others Ready for thatching next week – it has been very hot again to day .

Sunday 5th Fine Moderate weather and no Surf – the Boat went out this morning and Returnd about 11 oClock with 64 Snappers – walked out to Charlotte Field to give directions to Mr. Dodge what I wish the people to goe about in the Morning – a fire Broke out about 3 oClock this afternoon in Town here in one of the Convicts Huts which Consumed it and four more Huts .

Munday 6th Fine weather no Surf – the Boat went out this morning a fishing and to Land my Servant and one of the Boats Crew on Nepean Island to get Gannets for the Sake of the Feathers to make me a Bed – She Return about 11 oClock with only 11 white Fish and 50 Gannets – walked twice out to Charlotte Field once before and once after dinner to see if the people work as I wish them – I am much pleased with there work to day – put a Leg Iron on Dayes a Convict Carpenter as a punishment for coming into Town from Charlotte Field without Leave – [*] Stringer a famele convict was punished to day with 50 Lashes for leaving Smiths Farm without leave and comming in to Town to one of the Seamen – it Blows Fresh this Evening from the Northward

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Dec. 1790 Tuesday 7th Clear weather But blows fresh in the offening – the Boat went out and for Gannets for the Sake of the Feathers – She Returnd about 11 oClock with only 5 fish and 18 Gannets – went out to Charlotte Field twice once before and once after dinner – got one of the Fraims of one of the huts up this afternoon – not So much wind as in the Morning – begun cutting the wheat of Ship wreck Hill to day.

Wednesday 8th Cloudy weather has had the appearence if it would Rain all the day – wish it would for the Indian corn wants it very much – has blown hard all this day from the N:E: – thier being little Surf Sent the Boat out a fishing – She Caught 32 Snappers – the people Empd in Cutting the Wheat on Ship wreck Hill as also Stacking it.

Thursday 9th Cloudy weather blows fresh from the N:E: little Surf – Sent the Boat out a fishing – She Returnd at 12 oClock with 64 Snappers – Served them to all the officers and to 50 of the Convicts – went out twice to Charlotte Field – Reaped the Field of Wheat out there – found that two of the Carpenters had Neglected there work at Charlotte Field in my absence which I mentioned to Majr. Ross on my Return this afternoon who has orderd them who has orderd them to be punished with 50 Lashes Each – have got the third House under way Gloster Convict was punishd with 50 Lashes for being impertinent to Mr. Roper .

Friday 10th Clear weather but blows hard in the offening from the N:E: no Surf – walked out to Charlotte Field twice – Jno. Nowland and Wisehamer the two Carpenters were punished out there for Neglecting there work – the former Received the whole of his punishment 50 Lashes but wisehamer could only bear 8 Lashes – the Surgeon Said that he could not bear more he fainted a way twice.

Saterday 11th Cloudy weather not So much wind as Yesterday little Surf – went out to Charlotte Field before Breakfast which I carried with me – Returned to dinner – nouland and wirehamer the two Convict Carp. which were punishd Yesterday for Neglect of duty have not been at work Since – Reported them to Majr. Ross at my Return who orderd the Store Keeper to Issue only half allowance to them – I was also much displeased with Mr. Dodge at Charlotte Field for not having all the people at work as the[y] ought – he is one of the Kings hard bargains – I hope that the Boat will be able to goe out to morrow for I like fish much better than Salt Beef of which Since I have been here I have I am Sure had my Share of it for Some time.

Sunday 12th Fine Moderate weather little Surf – after Breakfast Majr. Ross and little John and Self walked out to Charlotte Field to See what progress I have made Since he was last there – he is very much pleased and likes the plan of the Houses very much – Returnd to dinner.

Munday 13th Fine Moderate weather little Surf – the Boat went out and Caught only 17 Snappers – have been at Charlotte Field from a little after daylight untill Sun Set – got the Fraim of the fifth house up which I have made larger than the other four – it is twenty feet long and twelf feet Broad – the other four being only fourteen feet by ten – a gang of twelf men Set to work to Endevour to make Bricks.

Tuesday 14th Fine weather little Surf – the Boat went out this morning and Returnd with 90 odd fish mostly Snappers – went out early to Charlotte Field where I have Staid the whole day – I carried my breakfast out with me and had my dinner brought out to me which I shall have done every day that I am out there.

Wednesday 15th Cloudy weather little Surf – the Boat went out and Caught 102 Snappers – the Cutter of the Sirius went out a Sounding – went out to Charlotte Field

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Decr. 1790 Wednesday 15th at day break and Returnd at Sun Set – got a Saw pit made out at Charlotte Field and Shall Send out a pair of Sawyers ther to morrow.

Thursday 16th Moderate weather little Surf – Sent the Boat out this morning – She Returnd about 10 oClock on Account of there being to much Swell andthey were affraid that the Surf was going to get up – She brought in 51 Snappers – could not goe out to Charlotte Field to day being bussey Empd in the Morning in delivering out Necessaries to the two Compy. and in the afternoon could not goe as Majr. Ross did not wish me to goe to day.

Friday 17th Cloudy weather with a Strong Gale from the S:W: – hope it will bring the Gorgon – the Surf getting up fast – went out to Charlotte Field at day break and Returned at Sun Set – orderd Mr. Dodge to give two pounds of potatoes a pice to Sixteen of the men who have worked very hard all day and I believe the[y] have nothing to eat – Saml. Banner a male convict left his work at Charlotte Field to day.

Saterday 18th Cloudy weather and Showery blows hard from the S.W. a good dele of Surf – went out to Charlotte Field at day break and Returnd to dinner – Saml. Banner I found Still absent but on my Return to Town Majr. Ross informd me that Mr. Irvin on his Return from Seing the Sick at Charlotte Field had met with him on the Road and brought him in – I askd Majr. Ross to permit B. Dayes to come in to Town to have his Indian corn up – he Said that I might doe with him as I pleasd – I might Release him out of Irons if I pleased which I have done because he has worked well ever Since he was put in to Irons – I complaind to Majr. Ross that Jas. Elliot one of the convict Carpenters out at Charlotte Field had Shirkd his work three different times although he had been told of it every time and when Dayes Spoke to him about it he began to abuse him and would not be Quite when I orderd him I brought him into Town with me and told Majr. Ross who orderd him to Recieve 100 Lashes and Banner the Same number for leaving his work Yesterday and this morning Elliot could only bear 73 and Banner 79 Lashes when I orderd them both out to Charlotte Field.

Sunday 19th Fine weather but blows fresh from the South West and a great dele of Surf.

Munday 20th Moderate weather not much Surf walked out to Charlotte Field Soon after day break and Returned at Sun Set got the Eight Fraim of the Eight house up Tuso a male Convict at Charlotte Field left his work to day and Run into the woods because I told him I would flog him for Refusing to doe what Mr. Dodge order him I hope he will never Return again for he is a great Rascall.

Tuesday 21st Fine Calm weather walked out to Charlotte Field and Returnd to dinner no Surf Send the Boat over to Phillip Island for Tropic Birds and to goe a fishing She Returnd about 1 oClock with 18 Tropic Birds and 76 Snappers Served them to the officers and the Marines.

Wednesday 22d Fine calm weather no Surf Sent the Boat over to NepeanIslandfor Gannets and a fishing She Returned about 1 oClock with 26 Gannets and 37 Snappers walked out to Charlotte Field after dinner Jno. Pugh a marine Confined and put in Irons for Stealing Potatoes out of the Public Store when he was Sentinell there last night I hope when he is Tryed which will be at Port Jackson that he will be hangd that is all the harm that I wish him.

Thursday 23rd Fine weather no Surf the Boat went over toNepeanandPhillipIslandfor Birds and to goe a fishing She Returned about 1 oClock with 10 Gannets 25 Tropic Bird and 37 Snappers went out to Charlottes Field after Breakfast and Returnd at Sun Set

Decr 1790 Friday 24th Squally wind west it Raind very hard in the night not much Surf on the Reef Sent the Boat out for Gannets and a fishing She Returnd about ½ after Eight with only 4 Snappers there was too much Surf Round Nepean Island for the Boat to Land with Safety for to get Birds and it Blowd too hard for them to fish after Breakfast Majr. Ross, John and Self walked out to Charlotte Field to See what progress I have made Since his last being there he told me that he is very much pleasd with what I have done in the manner I have planed and Built the Houses.

Saterday 25th Fine weather but blows fresh from the Southward and a great Sea Rolling into the Bay which will make a great Surf on the Reef on which there is a great dele at present this being Christmas day I wish a merry merry Christmas to all the world the most poorest person in England will be better off this day than any of use here for the[y] will be able to get Small bier with their dinner to drink if nothing better and there is not any of use will have anything better but cool water this will be a dry Christmas doe good Gorgon come and take use away from this place.

Sunday 26th Fine weather little wind but a great Surf on the Reef I wish to god the Gorgon would arrive every day is an age I am affraid Some Accidenthas happend to her Touso who left his work on the 20 Inst at Charlotte for my telling him that I would flog him for being impertinent to Mr. Dodge gave himself up last night to Mr. Hume at Cascade from whence he was brought last night and put in Irons.

Munday 27th Fine weather Blows fresh in the offening wind a Southing by west a good dele of Surf on the Reef walked out to Charlotte Field at day break Staid untill Sun Set Majr. Ross Sent out Touso to be Punished which he was and Received 100 Lashes and to work in Irons on the Road untill further orders

Decr 1790 Tuesday 28 Cloudy weather and blows hard from the East a good dele of Surf on the Reef walked out to Charlotte Field at day break and Returnd at Sun Set got the fram of of the tenth House up.

Wednesday 29th Fine weather walked out to Charlotte Field at day break Returnd back to dinner Set the Carpenters in Building a Bridge across the Run of water Returned back to dinner Empd. this afternoon in getting the Quarterly Accounts Ready for Signing wind East and a little Surf.

Thursday 30th. Fine weather and no Surf Sent the Boat out walkd out to Charlotte Field at day break and Returned Untill Sun Set directing the Carpenters how I wish the Bridge to be Build the Boat Returnd about 12 oClock with 77 Snappers which were Servd out to the Marines and to the Seamen.

Friday 31st Fine Weather no Surf Sent the Boat over to Nepean Island to Endeavour to get Some Gannets for the Feathers the Surf was to great at the Island the Boat could not land with Safety on which the[y] went a way to the West side of the Island a fishing the[y] Caught 70 odd Snappers which were Servd out to the Seamen Marines &c. walked out to Charlotte Field at day break and Returnd at Sun Set if I had not Volluntiered this I Should have been dead I believe with lowness of Spirits this is the last day of the Year 1790 I trust in God the Year 1791 will be a more fortunate one than 89 or 90 have been in the Year 89 I lost all my things in the Guardian and in this Year I lost all my things in the Sirius I Should forget it all if the Gorgon would come and take me home to my beloved family for I realy wish to be with them I have been too long a way from them.

JANUARY 1791

Jany. 1st 1791 Saterday 1st Many happy Returns of the day to all my friends here we have now enterd into the Year 91 and no Gorgon good God what is become of her I hope She has not Run against ane Island of Ise like the Guardian I wish to God that She was come or Some other good Ship to Carry use a way it has been fine moderate weather all this day but the little wind that there is is from the Eastward which is against any think coming to this place Majr. Ross orderd Mary Nash a famele convict out at Charlotte Field both Legs in Irons on my Representing to him that all the people Say that She is the person they Believe that Steal all ther things and goes into town to Sell them to the Seamen She is big with child otherwise Should have floggd her Yesterday for She is a D…… B…… .

Sunday 2d Fine Moderate weather the Boat went out a fishing ther being no Surf She Returnd a bout 12 oClock with 75 Snappers which I Served out to the officers and to Some of the Convicts particular to them that behave well and that work well Majr. Ross, John and my Self walkd out to Charlotte Field and is much pleased with what I have done Creswell informd me this morning that Mr. Bryon and Shortland had Some words a few days back Respecting a Convict H….. when Mr. Shortland told Mr. Bryon that he was a damed Rascall and a Scoundrall which Mr. Bryon has not taking any notice of he being a distant Relation of Mrs. Ross I told Majr. Ross of it that he would not ask Mr. Bryon to dine any more with use nor bring him amongst us for Suffering himself to be treated in the manner he was and not take any notice of it by calling Mr. Shortland to ane Account Majr. Ross Said he certainly would not and Should Send to him to desire him not to come near him as the above was Reported of his permitting Mr. Shortland to treat him which Majr. Ross did in the afternoon

January 1791 Tuesday 25th Fine Moderate weather no Surf the Boat went out and brought in 105 fine Snappers walkd out to Charlotte Field at day break and gave orders for a Jail to be built which is a thing that is much wanted to Confine them the misbehavour in it I also gave orders for a pair of Stocks to be made at the Jail door and a neck coller for the Ladies for I never came a Cross Such a Sett of D…… B…… in my life they make me Curs and Swer my Soul out I shall order them to be locked up in the Jail every night that misbehavour when the Jail is finishd Oatway Ingle Received 21 Lashes being part of the Remainder of his punishment which he could not bear more on the 17th.Instant Returnd from Charlotte Field at Sun Sett it has been Remarkable hot to day.

Wednesday 26th Fine weather no Surf Sent the Boat out and She brought in [*] Snappers Walked out to Charlotte Field at drum beating in the morning and Returnd to dinner very warm to day when will the Gorgon come I long much to what is to become of use and to know if I am to get any thing in this new Corps to induce me to Quite the Marines and to Remain in this Country John Clayton one of the Marines out at Charlotte went out to day to get Some wood Cabbages in coming down the tree he fell with his back Side on a Stump which Run up his back Side a great way and has tore him very much he must have walkd in great pain as he was above a Mile from Charlotte Field when he fell from the Tree.

Thursday 27th Fine weather little wind from the Eastward no Surf Sent the Boat out She Caught 52 Snappers went out to Charlotte Field at Revelly Beating and Returned a little after Sun Set got the Fraim of the Jail up Yesterday afternoon this day three Years we came into P. Jackson harbour with the fleet from B. Bay.

Friday 28th Fine Moderate weather very little wind and no Surf Sent the Boat out to Phillip Island for Tropic Birds and to goe a fishing She brought in 21 Tropic Birds and 50 odd Snappers has been very warm all this day Since noon there has a little Breeze Sprung up from the Westward hope to God it will bring Some thing to take use a way or to tell use that we are not to be Relieved this Year which will be better than been in this Suspence I hope if So the Supply will be the Ship that brings use the Account that we are not to be Relieved this Year for from her we will be able to get Some Tea and Sugar if we dont get any thing else for I have not nor has Majr. Ross drunk a dish of tea or drunk a Glass of wine these Six months our Breakfast is dry bread and Coffy made from burnt wheat and we are glad even to be able to get that God help use I hope we will Soon See better days Soon for the[y] cannot well be Worse.

Saterday 29th Blows Fresh from the S:W and the first part of the day Squaly a Fine wind for anything that is coming to this Islandfrom Port Jackson a Great Surf got up Since this Morning Yesterday afternoon Jno. Robins a Convict went to the N:E: part of the Island with Some of the Seamen beloning to the Sirius a fishing when endeavouring to getfrom one rock to another he fell into the Sea and went down like a Stone and was unfortunately drown the people could give him no Assistance for the[y] never Saw him after he Slipt into the Water he was a very good Quite man he is one of Plymouth old Town George Guest a Convict was Punished with 50 Lashes for telling a liy to Majr. Ross.

Sunday 30th Blows hard from the S:W: and a very great Surf on the Reef the first part of the day fine cool and the latter part Squaly I hope this wind will bring the Gorgon here.

Munday 31st Fine weather not So much Surf as Yesterday but Still a very great Surf the wind got Round to its old Quarter again to the Eastward which is against any thing coming from Port Jackson to this Island as we have from no other place anything to expect Jas. Robinson (Convict) the Coxwin of the Coble was punished with 50 Lashes for disobediance of orders by killing Pidgeons which are not permitted to be kild but by the people who the Surgeon thinks are in want of them to make them a little Soup as the[y] are the only fresh thing that will make a little weak Soup for the Sick and if every body was at liberty to kill them when the[y] thought proper ther would Soon not be a pidgeon left on the Island her this is a nother month gone over our head neather Gorgon nor anything else from port Jackson Surly Some Accident must have happened to her and I begin to give the Supply over also for She has had time to be back from Batavia long befor this I hope that She is not lost I Should be very Sorry for it if She is