Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia
Author(s): Crawford, Thomas
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Journal of a voyage to N. S. Wales on board the
[¿] [¿]. by Thos. Crawford.
Saturday 21st May 1825. sailed from Leith [¿]
with [¿] [¿]. About 1/2 past 4 a.m. went to bed with Mr. ML
before tea off the Isle of May. Sunday we were
becalmed. Monday off Aberdeen about 1/2 past 5 p.m. with a strong breeze; off John O
Groat's [¿] in the evening of Tuesday, when
we came through the Moray firth, with a
heavy sea, almost all the passengers were sick
arrived on Wednesday morning at the Orkneys
after breakfast Capt. Crear accompanied
with Messrs. Ryrie amp; [¿] set out for Kirkwall
to procure poultry amp; sheep amp; returned on the
afternoon of Thursday. Sailed on Friday
morning from the Orkneys, were off [¿]
head after breakfast, made little progress
with contrary winds and a heavy sea,
off the [¿] shore the hills were covered with seals
Saturday engaged all day in [¿] round
Cape [¿] which we at last accomplished
with very great difficulty; the wind being
contrary with heavy sea [¿] [¿] amp; squalls
the cold was very intense. Sunday off the
Lewis. Monday morning off [¿] [¿] where
we procured some fresh fish from the boats that
came along side, the fish were a great treat;
got clear off the highlands Burow heads in the afternoon
about six aclock off Mingalay the weather being very
calm the ship made little progress and the
crew delightfully [¿] the weather all the
day has been very beautiful; this afternoon
another boat came along side just after we
left the [¿], from which we bought
some [¿] skate amp; at our dinner table today
was [¿] with Mrs [¿] [¿] for the
the first time since they came on board, we had
fresh boiled fish for dinner roasted amp; boiled beef
amp; fish soup and irish stew with plumb pudding
Our [¿] party consists of Mr. amp; Mrs. [¿] amp; family
Mr. amp; Mrs. Littleton (late of the 73d) amp; family, Governess
amp; family of Major McLeod, Mr. T. Crawford amp; Mr. Chas.
MLachlan both from Greenock Messrs Little Surgeon
of the ship, [¿] from Glasgow, Scott from Edinburgh
and Dudgeon from Leith. During our
stay (our stay) at the Orkneys the [¿] that were
on shore for water did not come till midnight,
when I was awaked by the Capstone amp; the [¿]
singing all the tunes I used to hear at Greenock
quays amp; [¿] the nest "John Crow" which
lightened my heart, amp; put me in remembrence
of home. Our dinners generally consist of soup
or Irish stew roasted and boiled beef potatoes
amp;ea with plumb rice or bread pudding; wines
port amp; sherry amp; plenty of rum amp; brandy cheese amp;
bread amp; occasionally raisins. Tuesday. On awaking
this morning found the ship labouring very much
the [¿] boxes amp;ea in the Cabin rolling about and
on enquiry was told that we were on the Atlantic
Ocean, at breakfast it blew very fresh and by
dinner time increased to a Gale, the dinner dishes
were rocking about the table and some things
broken, the wind blew so strong amp; the sea now
so high that we with difficulty could sit at
table, stools rolling about the Cabin. Towards
the evening the Gale decreased but the ship
rolled very much on acct. of having swell will
S. S. U. going with close reefed top sails Gib amp; [¿] sail
Wednesday1st June. Blowing hard with a very heavy
sea with difficulty could sit at table on accot. of
ship rolling, broke a number of dishes. Thursday 2d.
the wind not much less, but heavy seas running.
Dudgeon still in bed. The Irish stew that was
set on table for the children's dinner rolled off the table amp;
lost on the Cabin floor a great quantity came into my
berth. Capt. [¿] uniformly claims two toasts after
dinner viz. "The King" and "all our Friends" after which
the passengers call for any toast they think proper.
The Steward of this ship was with Capt. Parry
on his expedition amp; was with Dr. Richardson when
he shot the Indian who (he) murdered Mr. Hood.
the 2d. Mate (whose name is Black) is a Greenock
lad amp; sailed in the "Protector" with Capt. [¿]
We amuse ourselves at Cards and reading, we
breakfast about 8 and dine about 3 and drink
tea about 7. McLachlan has been complaining
for some days. Mr. Littleton has been very ill,
notwithstanding the long voyages he has had
Mr. [¿] says he met with David at his brother's
Mr. N [¿] the [¿]. Friday 3d the weather
not much better than it has been for some days, the
ship rolling very much; towards the evening a
brig was seen at some distance McLachlan thought
she was very like a brig from Greenock called
the "Eliza Ann";; during the night the wind
blew very strong; when I awoke the ship was
labouring very much, amp; making some head. Dudgeon
went on deck for a few minutes was obliged
to go to bed again. Miss [Hamil] the Governess of
Major McLeod suffered very much. Mr. Littleton still
very ill cannot stay below he is always on deck.
Saturday 4th the weather somewhat calm, but
the swell still heavy; towards it calmed.
Sunday 5th June. The weather greatly calmed, the
sea much smoother, and the day delightful; about
mid-day discovered a vessel bearing upon us, and in
a short time she was close to us; she hove to amp; we
hailed each other, amp; found that she was from Jamaica
for Bristol, amp; Capt. [¿] requested the Master
to report us on his arrival, which he said he would
do; she was a beautiful little Brig with her name
on her stern "Catharine of Montega Bay [¿]." She was
39 days from Jamaica. Capt. [¿] told us, we were
about the commencement of the Bay of Biscay. The
Steward rings a bell about 1/2 past 7 in the morning for the
passengers to rise amp; dress for breakfast, amp; at sametime measures
out the water for each passenger (that is up) to wash; unless we are
up before breakfast amp; call for the water, we dont get
any at all. We had for dinner two roasted fowls [¿]
[¿] amp; a fowl baked in a pudding ([¿]) the same as a
beef stake pudding; we very frequently have beef
stake puddings to dinner. I had a tumbler of whisky
today [¿] day for the first time since I left Scotland
it was a great great, amp; made me think of [¿].
Before going to bed I went on deck at the request of Mr.
Fisher to see as it were sparks of fire upon the water;
I never saw the same before, it resembles very much
the Stars. Monday 6th June. The weather very easy
and pleasant the ship making some motion, Mr.
Dudgeon very seldom out of bed takes very little food.
Tuesday 7th June. The weather very beautiful with a
fresh breeze all the Cabin passengers on deck also
Mrs. amp; Miss [¿] who now breakfast amp; dine with us; when
she came near to us we made her a signal amp;
perceived her to be a [¿] vessel (Schooner).
I perceived from the almanack the [¿] [¿] would
be held on the first Tuesday in June, I [¿]
of being there last year, amp; wondered if any of our
family were there. Dudgeon was on deck
but could not come to dinner. Capt. [¿]
is a very exemplary man. He takes the [¿]
boys into his room on Sunday nights after tea amp; [¿]
them read. I suppose Mr. Newton would set sail
for Naples till midsummer. I often dream about home
amp; the family also Mr. [¿]. I very often look for a steam
boat as Newton may come this way. Wednesday 8th June
the wind rather against us but the weather fine; we
see occasionally some vessels at a distance. Thursday
9th June. The wind still against us and the weather
beautiful, all the Cabin passengers on deck, male amp; female
went on deck about 12 oClock at night amp; remained there
for sometime with Mr. Black the 2d. Mate during his
watch; Mr. Black and I have many stories about Greenock.
I will now give a plan amp; description of the
Cabin table. Those lines marked "puddings" are canvas bags
stuffed tight with corn amp; pease, about the size of a [¿],
amp; tied at each end of the table, to prevent the dishes rolling
off. Between the sides of the Cabin amp; the table, are fixed
stakes that reach from the floor to the roof of the cabin,
and fastened to these stakes are long pieces of canvas that reach
from end to end, about 1/2 a foot broad, so that where
we sit at table the canvas is about the small or
middle of the back, amp; prevents us from tumbling
off the stools. There is also suspend from the roof of
the Cabin, a rack for holding wine amp; water decanters
tumblers glasses amp;ea amp; prevents them from being broken
Friday 10th June. The wind still against us from S. W.
we have been on a long tack for some days. The weather
is beautiful and the ship making little motion. Soon
after breakfast I discovered a swallow following the
ship, amp; endeavouring to light about the deck. Dudgeon
showed to be [¿] deck reading amp; after flying about for a
short time, it lighted on the book that he was
reading amp; set for a second or two; Mr. [¿] who was
lying at the stern, with his legs elevated on the deck,
also received a visit from the swallow, by lighting
on his knee; it afterwards was caught by the
Steward during the time of dinner, in the passage
leading to the cabin, amp; let go; and I heard it singing
in some of the cabins, long after dinner, It was supposed
to have wandered from the rest, as it was very much
fatigued, amp; appeared quite exhausted. This would almost
suit Measures to fill up a paragraph in this paper. In
the afternoon about sunset, we perceived a large ship,
a long way from us. Saturday 11th. June. The swallow
was found this morning in one of the cabins, unable to
fly, amp; in a short time afterwards was found dead. The weather
was very beautiful the wind much in the same direction as
it has been for some days previous. Towards the evening
we were becalmed, and it became very foggy. Sunday
12th. June. The weather very beautiful, very warm, and
not a breath of wind, with a very thick fogg, which
lasted all day, we made very little progress. Monday
13th June. The weather calm amp; beautiful with a little fogg,
but about mid-day a breeze sprung up from S. S. W. and
I went on deck, she was sailing remarkably well, with
a sharp breeze. The night was beautiful, clear, amp; starry.
Tuesday 14th June. The wind quite fair, amp; the ship sailing
very smooth with little motion. The weather very beautiful
and pleasant on deck. Towards the afternoon a flock of
porpoises were seen playing about the ship; and before
going to bed I went on deck; and saw the porpoises
swimming on the surface of the water; they formed
as it were a [stream] of light on the water. [¿]
15th June. The wind quite fair amp; the ship making little
or no motion. The weather quite delightful, amp; warm; we
put up the awning for the first time. It is extremely
hot in bed, with great difficulty can allow the blankets
to cover me. Soon after breakfast saw a Brig to the
Leeward, amp; made her a signal which she answered,
and immediately after saw a Schooner ahead, she hove
to, and we spoke to each other; she was from [¿]
bound for London amp; promised to report us on her
arrival; her name was the "Express" of Newcastle
we were then in Longitude 15.30. Thursday 16th June
The weather calm amp; quite beautiful, with a little wind
and the ship quite steady. It is now very hot amp; all on
board looking out anxiously for Madeira, that we
may get there some fruit amp; fresh vegetables. Friday 17th
June. The wind very light amp; the water smooth
the ship very steady. The water is now quite
blue, and the Sun right above us. The heat in
bed is quite oppressive; I lie (with) with my one
single blanket half on. After tea the passengers
had one of the men playing the fiddle on deck,
amp; commenced dancing reels [¿] deuces amp; quadrilles
till a late hour, amp; afterwards had port wine [¿]
Mr. McLachlan (on accot. of eating pork) has been complaining
today, amp; in the evening was bled.
Saturday 18th June. The weather very delightful and the
water calm. The ship sailing very smoothly, with a
light breeze, at the rate of from 4 to 6 [notes]. The cabin
passengers after dinner had a bowl of punch (but I
preferred a Tumbler of Toddy) being the anniversary of
Waterloo. Sunday 19th June. The weather quite delightfull
amp; the ship sailing at a smart rate, very steady, it is
now very hot. About mid-day discovered Land ahead
at a very great distance almost imperceptible amp; were
informed by Capt. Crear that it was the Island of
Porto Santo, one of the Madeiras; Had we not been told
by Capt. Crear that it was land we never could
have discovered it till we were close to it. About
5 oClock (immediately after dinner) I came upon deck
amp; we were then just off amp; close to the Land. This
[¿] Mr. McLachlan amp; I observed, was very like the
high hills behind the Duke of Argyles Stables, in
other words the Dukes bowling Green. We very
soon lost the Island as we sailed quick past it.
About tea time we discovered at a great distance
another Island, called the Desertas, also one of the
Madeiras, and Madeira itself, but kept far off amp;
passed the Desertas during the night, Monday 20th
June. The weather is really most beautiful. The sea
calm, amp; the ship sailing at an easy rate, with little
or no motion. Tuesday 21st June. After getting myself dressed
this morning went on deck amp; discoverd Land ahead
at a very great distance, was told that it was
Teneriffe. Immediately after breakfast commenced writing home
amp; about noon we were nearer the Land amp; had a complete
view of the Peak. About dinner time came
in sight of Santo Cruz the Capital of the Canaries,
amp; about 1/2 past dropped Anchor close to the town
of Santo Cruz. Soon after we had dropped Anchor
we were visited by the [¿] boat amp; after some
formality were permitted to go on shore where we
chuse. Capt. Crear after tea went on shore amp; procured
some fruit. Wednesday 22d. June. After breakfast
went on shore accompanied by Mr. McLachlan,
went to the Inn where we met Capt. Crear who
had breakfasted there; were engaged along with
the Cabin passengers to dine there, amp; after dinner
all except myself went to ride into the [¿]
amp; did return till late. Thursday 23d June.
Went on shore amp; procured a few peaches, amp; returned
on board; the heat in the town being quite excessive.
Friday 24th Early in the morning
was awaked by Mr. Littleton to go on deck amp;
assist at the Cap-stone. The ship is getting
under weigh, with her sails set, amp; in heaving
up the Anchor had caught hold of a Schooners
Anchor that was close to, the wind being fresh
drove the ship [¿] near the pier amp; was almost
on shore upon the rocks, when we hove out
another anchor which just caught her up
when she was within a few yards of the
pier. After we got fairly out from the pier we
set sail. The natives of Santa Cruz are very indolent,
amp; Greedy as soon as we went on shore they
ran after us begging. The dress of the women is
very peculiar; they have a blanket that covers the
head amp; hangs down their back amp; on their head
over the blanket is a hat, the same hat as is
worn by the men. Camels are very common
there instead of draught horses, they carry
very heavily burdens on their back; the ass also in
Santa Cruz is very plenty amp; a small kind of
horse, there are no Carts there. Oxen are also
in great abundance amp; instead of dragging
by the neck they drag by the horns a sort
of sledge without wheels, amp; upon this machine
they drag their wine amp; water; the natives
drive the horses amp; oxen into the sea amp; swim along
with them to wash them. There are a number
of very fine bells in Santa Cruz, there was one
bell which was very like the high Church
Bell of Edinburgh. I observed a man in
Santa Cruz who I thought was very like
William Glen of Largs. Mr. Ryrie went on
shore with his [¿] [¿], amp; he excited
the surprise of all the natives who saw him
particularly when he was mounted on
horseback. Saturday 25th. The weather very
beautiful amp; sailing along the trades with a
fair wind. Sunday 26th. June. The weather
very beautiful, with a fair wind right astern,
blowing pretty fresh with studding sails set.
Monday 27th. The wind amp; weather quite delightful
amp; sailing with the most of our sails set. Tuesday
28th. The weather very beautiful. This morning very
early experienced a heavy Gale, was informed
that it was the tail of a Tornado, the ship rolled
very much, about breakfast time it calmed
amp; we had a calm all day. Wednesday 29th
We were becalmed all day and were very very [¿]
the awnings set fore amp; aft. The sailors [¿] are
[¿] with the heat of the Sun. I had a very
sore throat and suppose that it was on account
of the change from cold to heat. The evenings
are truly beautiful amp; delightful, the moon shining
very clear amp; the evenings cool. Thursday 30th. The
wind fair amp; easy and the weather delightfully [¿]
the Ladies after tea amuse themselves with
dancing on deck or playing cards in the
cabin. Friday1st July. Made the Island of
St. Antony one of the Cape Verde, amp; passed between
it amp; St. Vincent another of the Cape Verde.
On the latter Island (St. Vincent), there is a
Crag very like Salisbury Crags, amp; Mr. Littleton
took an outline of the Island, for Capt. Crear
We experienced a heavy squall coming
through the Cape Verde, amp; after we left the Island
which was after dinner; we had a strong
breeze that drove us at the rate of nine
knotts, which continued all night.
Saturday 2d July. The breeze strong during the
the forenoon, but it endured towards
the afternoon amp; we made little progress. Sunday
3d July. We had a light breeze of wind, and went
along very well. Soon after breakfast went on deck
amp; saw a very fine large ship at a great distance
The heat now is very strong, all the Cabin passengers
remain on deck till very late, the heat
is so oppressive in the Cabin. Monday 4th July
Light winds during the day amp; in the evening experienced
a Thunder Storm. The Lightning was very
vivid and the flashes were very numerous. The Thunder
was very loud. The rain was so heavy that I
never saw the like of it, and as soon as Capt. [¿]
observed the rain, he caused the awning be
spread to preserve the rain for drinking, and
I put on my great coat, went on deck amp; lent a
hand to fill the buckets along with Mr. Fisher
amp; young Mr. Ryrie, amp; remained on deck til a late
hour. The rain that came through the awning
very soon pierced my old fur cap amp; had it not
been for my great coat, I would have been
drenched to the skin. We are now in sight
of the Southern Croſs. The winds are very light
amp; the weather very fine; the heat is very great.
Tuesday 5th July. The weather very warm
amp; the wind light. Capt. Barwick in his
letter requested me to annoy very seldom the
Capt. of the ship with questions, as sailors are
not fond of being troubled with questions;
amp; for which reason I cannot give the Latitude
amp; Longitude. I forgot to mention that the
natives of Teneriffe fish during the night with
Torch light, along the coast. The houses
are all roofed with Tyle, amp; have no chimneys.
There was a Gentlemen of the name of Mr.
Manly who is a Mercht. in the Great [¿],
he is an English man, amp; made up to us at
the Inn, amp; shewed the passengers great
attention, amp; dined on board. Wednesday
6th July. Light winds amp; the ship sailing slow
about Sunset we observed Lightning, which increased
during the night. Thursday 7th July Latitude 8.30 north
I was wakened this morning at day break with the noise of
the Sailors [hulling] the sails, amp; the rain falling
upon the deck, went on deck to assist in
preserving the rain from the awning. The
Lightning was very bright amp; the Thunder very
loud. During the (during) the day we had
little wind. Towards the night we experienced
a heavy squal which increased amp;
carried away the earlier fastening of one of
the [¿] sails. I did not forget to drink
my Father's health and all the family in a
tumbler of brandy toddy being the Greenock
fair day; amp; gave Capt. [¿] amp; Mr. McLachlan
a [¿] out of my [hose]. Friday 8th July. The
wind blowing strong amp; contrary to our course, we
were obliged to tack. There is a ship at a distance which has
been on the same course with us for several
days. I have seen a great many flying fish, they
generally are seen in flocks. Saturday 9th July.
The weather very fine amp; the heat very great; put out
some of my cloathes to dry. Sunday 10th July.
The wind and weather very fine during the forenoon,
when afterwards it began to rain very much
which continued all day, amp; we were obliged
to remain in the Cabin. Monday 11th July.
I immediately after breakfast we observed a
ship at a little distance; we made her a
signal which she answered, amp; discoverd her
to be a british vessel. She was a very beautiful ship.
The wind pretty fresh, and neither against us
It is very soon dark now, amp; the nights are very
long; the flies are very thick, especially in the
morning in bed, we can get no rest on accot.
of them troubling us. Tuesday 12th July. Weather
beautiful amp; hot with a smart breeze contrary
to our course. About dark in the evening
we put upon another tack, and the wind
afterwards became very variable. Wednesday
13th July. Smart breeze and we sailed at a pretty
sharp rate. About mid-day put upon another
tack. Capt. [¿] did not [have] the top
of the table as he was unwell but was succeeded
by Mr. Dudgeon; neither Mr. Little the
Surgeon, nor Mr. McLachlan were at dinner
on accot. of being ill. Thursday 14th July.
Smart breeze and the ship sailing very well. Mr.
[¿] amp;ea are now better. Friday 15th July.
Smart breeze blowing fresh; saw a great
number of flying fish. The ship sailing
smartly with a little motion. Saturday
16th July. Light winds and sailing smoothly;
we were delighted with the beautiful weather
for some days past; amp; the stars at night
amp; the setting sun are very grand. Sunday
17th July. Light winds and we made little progress.
The weather was very beautiful. Monday
18th July. Fresh breeze and the ship sailing
well. Tuesday 19th Fresh pleasant breeze and
the Sun very hot. Wednesday 20th. Fresh pleasant
breeze and Capt. Crear when he made his observation
at 12 oClock said we were very near
the Line amp; we crossed the Line sometime about
dinner time. Capt. [¿] was very averse
to any shaving taking place on accot. of some
misunderstanding among the passengers
last voyage; that a few of the passengers
seemed so determined to be shaved; that
Capt. [¿] told them they would be
responsible for the consequence, as he
would not interfere, amp; the shaving was
postponed. Thursday 21st. Soon after
breakfast, the shaving commenced and
it really was a most disagreeable
operation, wet swabs put over the shoulders
[¿] instead of being soaped with
paint [¿] either grease or [¿] shaved with
a rusty hoop powdered with flower amp; water
buckets of water dashed about the head
amp; afterwards tumb led backwrds into a
boat of dirty water. After getting out of
the boat there were buckets of dirty water
thrown about. The worst of it was a
handkerchief tied over the eyes before going
forward to undergo this operation of shaving
amp; different stuffs were made up in bottles
which you were obliged to drink if you
opened the mouth to answer the questions
that were put, amp; if not taken voluntarily
were thrown down the throat when the
mouth was open. I did not like the
operation of shaving at all. After being
shaved I fell upon deck amp; sprained my
shoulder, which caused much pain.
The Ladies were not excluded from shaving with
the rest in a hearty ducking; Mrs. amp; Miss Ryrie
were soused with water. Soon after dinner the
sailors were called aft to the [¿] deck amp; danced
till far in the evening, amp; were allowed a very
tolerable quantity of spirits, in fact all were
pretty much in the wind. After the dancing
was over we went to the cabin amp; had some
rum punch amp; a few [¿]. Friday 22d We
had a smart breeze amp; sailed very well; there
are plenty of flying fish seen in flocks.
Saturday 23d. There was a flying fish found on deck
in the morning when the men were about
to wash the deck. it was about the
size of a small herring, amp; not so thick as a
herring, but a broad back amp; head. The
wings consist of a large fin which projects
from behind the head amp; reaches
near to the tail. Mr. Dudgeon stuffed
it for himself. Sunday 24th July. The
weather very beautiful and the wind blowing
pretty fresh. The evenings are very grand;
we have moonlight. Monday 25th. The
weather very fine and the wind not so
strong; but we have a smart pleasant
breeze. My shoulder is a little better, but
still it is painful. Tuesday 26th. Pleasant
breeze during the forenoon, amp; in the afternoon
about dinner time in began to rain a little
amp; blow. Wednesday 27th. Blowing fresh and
the ship making some motion. Thursday
28th. Pleasant wind and the weather very fine
We had a nice sea pie for dinner; it consisted
of fresh pork potatoes amp; dough. Friday 29th.
Light pleasant winds amp; a little rain. Saturday
30th. Calm pleasant weather. Made the island of [¿]. Sunday 31st.
July. The weather calm, hot, amp; delightfully [¿].
Monday 1st. Augt. Soon after breakfast a few sharks were
seen about, close by the ship; one of the men very ingeniously
with a simple running loop put a rope
over one of their heads, which did not hold by
the head but by the tail amp; all hands were busy pulling
it up. Before bringing it up on deck the cook
made an incision in his belly with a carving
knife while hanging by the tail, amp; it made very
great exertions to lay hold of the Cook, in cutting
it up. After having cut up the belly we brought
it on deck amp; cut off his tail when the blood
ran very forcefully; amp; all were waiting to lay
hold of a [fin] the tail head amp; all amp; in a few minutes
we completely striped him of every thing amp;
threw the carcass over. I was told by Mr. Littleton
that without the tail it measured seven feet;
the tail would measure about a foot or something
more. A small part of its tail was afterwards dressed
for dinner, of which I partook, but it really was
strong rank food; not so delicate amp; pallateable
as [turbot]. The portion of it that I eat was very
trifling. We have seen a few whales pretty
near the ship amp; almost as large, as Capt. Crear
told us. Tuesday 2d. The weather calm during
the forenoon, but about dinner time it began
to blow fresh, amp; continued equally during
the (during the) night, with occasional
showers of rain, a heavy sea, amp; the ship
rolling much. The squalls accompanied
with showers of rain. There are a few
Cape Pigeons following the ship, they are black,
amp; white speckled on the back; and very like a
common pigeon both in size amp; appearance.
The weather is very cold, the most of the passengers
have [drawn] to their thick clothes. Friday
5th. The weather very squally amp; blowing strong with
showers of rain. The squalls are instantaneous amp;
very strong; with a heavy rolling sea amp; the ship
labouring much. Saturday 6th, Light winds
during the day, amp; in the afternoon it began to
blow a little, not strong, but easy. Sunday
7th. Pleasant wind during the day amp; continued
during the evening, and the weather very
beautiful. Observed a ship a long way
astern. Monday 8th. The wind light amp; the weather
beautiful. One of the sailor lads in this ship
is a son of Mason the Player. Some of the sails of
this ship bear the name of Mr. Nab amp; the signal
the name of Mr. Maitland. Between dinner
amp; tea two Cape Pigeons were caught. Tuesday
9th. The weather very warm amp; beautiful amp; the wind
light. Wednesday 10th. The weather calm amp; beautiful amp;
hot. After tea the wind became fair amp; we set
all sails. Thursday 11th. The wind quite fair right
astern and the weather beautiful; the ship making
little motion amp; the water very smooth, caught
a good many Cape pigeons. Friday 12th. The
wind fair amp; the weather beautiful; the ship
rolling a little. I thought of the shooting at
home; the most of the passengers were talking
about the hunting. Latitude 31.13. In the evening
the steerage passengers kept up the fun and
drank the Kings Health. Saturday 13th. The wind
strong and very fair, amp; the ship sailing right before
it. The weather beautiful. After tea the rain
came on. Sunday 14th Augt. The wind not so strong
after breakfast; but about mid-day the Capt. gave
orders to shorten sail, amp; before the sails were all
trimmed, it came on a very heavy squall accompanied
with thunder Lightning amp; rain. We
were all anxiously looking out for the Island of Tristan
D'Acunha an Island abreast of the Cape of Good
Hope where Capt. [¿] expected to get some vegetables,
but the weather being changeable amp; as appearance
of the Island at SunSet, we bore away
to the Eastward to avoid the Island altogether.
Monday 15th. The wind fair amp; the weather cold with
occasional showers of rain. Tuesday 16th. The wind
fair and the weather cold with showers of rain.
Wednesday 17th. The wind fair and the weather cold.
Thursday 18th. The wind fair and the weather cold.
Friday 19th. The wind fair and the weather cold;
in the evening the wind increased amp; blew strong,
with occasional showers of haill amp; rain.
Saturday 20th. The wind strong amp; the weather cold
two of the passengers were a little sick vizt.
The Surgeon Mr. Little amp; Mr. Dudgeon. The ship
rolling very much. Sunday 21st. The wind
pleasant amp; the weather a little cold. Monday
22d. The wind easy, with squalls, amp; occasional
showers of rain. There are a few Albatrosses
flying about the ship, they are seen mostly
about the Cape of Good Hoe, they are very
large and of different colours. I was told
by the Son of Major McLeod, that his Father
on his passage out in the [¿] shot
one which measured eleven feet from
the tip of one wing to the tip of the other.
Tuesday 23d. The wind not so fair as for some
days, amp; the weather pleasantly cold, just like
harvest weather at home. Wednesday 24th.
The wind not quite fair for us, amp; the weather pleasant.
Thursday 25th. The wind during the day
about the same direction, but in the evening
the wind came right aft, it was not very
cold. Friday 26th. About breakfast time the
wind shifted round to the quarter amp; blew
pretty strong, amp; the ship sailed fast. Saturday
27th. The weather very pleasant amp; the wind not very
strong. Sunday 28th. The wind steady amp; the weather
very pleasant. We had a couple of geese for dinner
amp; plumb pudding. Also Mulligatawny soup. This is our dinner
generally on Sunday. Besides salt beef amp; salt bork
amp; other provisions which we have during the
week. Monday 29th. The wind steady, amp;
the ship sailing very well; occasionally
sailing at the rate of from eight to nine
knotts, the weather cool amp; quite delightful.
One of the steerage passengers is a Neilston Lad
of the name of Craig; his brother has a property in
Neilston Parish called Kirkton, he is a cousin to
Mr. Kerr's friend Sergeant Howie of Mearns; before
coming away he called upon Mr. Smith
of [¿]; amp; he got a letter from
John Ross of Beith to Robert. One f the
men who was out last voyage in this
ship, comes from Ayr; his name is [¿]
amp; he sailed from Greenock several voyages
amp; sailed in the employ of Neilson amp; [¿]
And one of the boys who was also out
last voyage was [¿] about
Annie Lodge, (his name is Eddington) his
mother was Housekeeper there, amp; Cook at Eglinton
Castle.
Tuesday 30th. The wind steady and the ship
sailing very well with little motion. Lat:40.3 amp;
Longitude 32.20 [¿]
Wednesday 32st. The wind steady during the
day, but in the afternoon it began to blow
fresh, amp; increased to a GAle, when a few
of the sails were taken down amp; the rest
reefed; went to bed about twelve oClock
amp; it then blew strong. Lon: 30.52. Thursday 1st Septr.
the wind steady and easy till towards the
afternoon, when it began to blow pretty fresh,
the weather cold. Lat 41.31 Longitude 41.34.
Friday 2d. The wind not so strong as for some
days, but very cold, Lat. 41.32. Lon: 45.58. For some
days past Capt. Crear has put up a card showing
the Latitude amp; Longitude, which enabled me to write
the Longitude amp; Latitude, but formerly it merely
was by chance that I heard what the Latitude
amp; Longitude was. Saturday 3d. Lat: 41.52 Longitude
49.25 The wind during the forenoon was light, and
towards the afternoon, it became calm. Before
dinner a dead whale was observed ahead of the ship
quite close to us, covered with white Albatrosses
amp; Cape Pigeons; it came close by the side of
the ship floating on its back, amp; it appeared
to have been dead for some time, for there
were two holes in the belly apparently made
by the birds, amp; the smell was very strong.
Sunday 4th. Septr. Lat: 42.20 Lon: 52.36. We had roasted
pork for dinner. The weather pleasant during the
day, but in the afternoon it began to blow fresh
after dinner, which increased during the night
accompanied with very heavy rain, amp; very
dark. Monday 5th Lat: 43.5 Lon: 55.50 About
six oClock in the morning I was awaked
with the ship rolling very much, got up, wen
on deck amp; found the ship completely becalmed,
with very little wind, amp; a heavy sea which
caused her [roll] so much, but after breakfast
a wind sprung up amp; we went on well.
Tuesday 6th Lat: 43.20 Lon: 59.35. The wind fair and
the weather cold amp; pleasant. Wednesday 7th. The
wind blowing fresh, with an occasional sea making
its way over the ship. Lat: 43.40 Lon. 63.55 The
weather cold upon deck. Thursday 8th Lat: 43.34
Lon: 68.23 The weather cold, amp; the wind blowing fresh.
3460 Miles distant from Van diemens Land.
Friday 9th Lat: 43.28 Lon: 70.40 The wind very light
during the forenoon, which gradually increased
to a steady wind, and the weather very beautiful
just like a spring day at home. Saturday 10th
Lat: 43.33 Lon: 73.35. 3215 miles. The weather showery
and the wind blowing fresh with hail showers
Sunday 11th Septr. Latitude 43.22 Longitude 77.47.
3020 Miles from Van Diemans Land. The wind fair
and the weather beautiful. Monday 12th. Lat: 43.37
Lon: 81.53 Blowing a Gale of wind, the ship
rolling very much amp; shipping a great many seas;
a few of the passengers are sick yet, were obliged
to leave the dinner table. Sailed with double reefed
main topsail, reefed mail stay sail, full sail
amp; close-reefed [¿] sail. The ship is rolling so
much that it is with great difficulty that I
can write. 2840 miles. Tuesday 13th. The wind
not much [¿], with very heavy rain which
continued during the day, till about dinner time
when the wind began to slack, amp; became calm
during the forepart of the night. Lot: 44.0 Lon:
86.25 2645 miles. Wednesday 14th. The wind
aft, and the weather beautiful; the ship
rolling very much on account of the heavy
sea, which in general runs high here.
In [¿], when there is no wind whatever
amp; the sails flapping against the masts,
the ship rolls so much, that we cannot
stand on deck without the hold of a
rope. In that last Gale, there were two
men about the helm (wheel) one was at the
wheel, amp; the other with a tackle attached
to the tiller, to asist the one at the wheel,
with a rope tied round his waist.
Lat: 44.52 Lon: 89.40. 2485 miles. Thursday
15th Lat: 44.30 Lon: 93.34. distance 2300 miles.
The wind blowing fresh and the ship sailing
very well. The weather beautiful with a
very clear Atmosphere, amp; not a cloud to be seen
during the day. Friday 16th Lat: 44.38 Lon:
98.5 Encountered a heavy Gale of wind with
a very heavy sea; both of which continued during
the day. The seas very frequently broke upon
the side amp; came over the ship; every sea that
struck made the whole ship shake very
much.The wind howled through the rigging
tremendously, amp; when the sea (the sea) struck
the side of the (side of the) ship you thought
it would drive in her side altogether.
Robert might well envy the bed of the
old black horse at Hillend. distance
2085 miles which is a run of 215 in one
day. Saturday 17th. The weather very wet amp;
some of the passengers on deck during the
day on account of the rain. The wind
pretty strong, which changed from the
one side to the other, amp; caused a very heavy
cross sea; the ship rolled very much. Lat:
44.35 Lon: 102.28. 1895 miles. Sunday 18th
Septr. Lat: 43.24. Lon: 105.0 The wind contrary
which caused us put on another tack, but
in the forepart of the evening, the wind came
round again, amp; we stood on the right course.
The weather rainy. distance 1790 miles.
Monday 19th. Lat: 42.55 Lon: 108.35 The wind fair
amp; steady, the weather beautiful, amp; the ship sailing
well with very little motion. distance
1650 miles. Tuesday 20th Lat: 43.25
Lon: 113.0 The wind steady and the weather beautiful,
the ship making little motion. distance
1450 miles. Wednesday 21st. Lat: 43.25 Lon: 116.
50 The wind very light amp; the weather pleasant
distance 1275 miles. Thursday 22d. Lat: 43.5
Lon: 118.45 The weather wet amp; the wind contrary,
about mid-day we were obliged to put about
again amp; got upon the right course. distance
1202 miles. Friday 23d. Lat: 43.21 on: 121.10 The wind
blowing pretty fresh, and the weather cold. The
Cabin Steerage amp; foxhole are washed out once a
week; amp; during the hot weather were fumigated
with vinegar. The Sailors on board this Ship
are very differently fed from the Sailors on Clyde
they have coffee to breakfast, beef bork or Pease
Soup for dinner also plumb pudding with a gill of rum, amp; in the
evening at 6 oClock they have beef or Pork
amp; biscuit, with coffee which they provide for
themselves; but another allowance of rum
which the Ship provides. distance 1100
miles. Saturday 24th. Lat: 43.8 Lon: 125.45 The
weather cold, and the wind light at least not
so strong as on friday. One of the boys in coming
[¿] the companion with a fine large pie,
fell with the whole contents. The Cook has
been unwell for some days, amp; on that we are
obliged to put with some inconvenience.
Distance 895 miles.
Monday 26th. Lat: 44.20. Lon: 127.44. The wind
contrary, and we made little or no progress, were
obliged to tack several times. The weather pleasant
Distance still 805 miles.
Tuesday 27th. The wind light amp; a little contrary,
and the weather cold amp; pleasant. Lat: 44.48
Lon: 129.24. Distance 720 miles.
Wednesday 28th. Lat: 45.1. Lon: 132.0. The wind
pretty fair during the day, amp; in the afternoon
it came on rain which brought the winds round
amp; we stood on the right course. After tea the
rain went off, and became very clear, the
Moon was shining very clear, and the night
very beautiful. Distance 615 miles.
Thursday 29th. Lat: 44.31 Lon: 135.28 The wind
during the forenoon became light amp; we were
becalmed, but towards night the wind
got up amp; the ship sailed along pretty smoothly
Distance 470 miles. Mr. McLachlan presented
me with Mr. Knowles' [Elocutionist.]
Friday 30th. Lat: 43.45. Lon: 137.36. The wind
during the forenoon was very fair, but light,
and towards evening we were becalmed.
Distance 370 miles.
Saturday 1st. Octor. Lat: 44.20. Lon: 139.58 The
wind during the day was pretty fresh, amp; towards
evening, a little after tea, it became quite
dark, amp; began to blow very hard; very few
sails were set, amp; any that were set were all
reefed. Distance 265 miles.
Sunday 2d. Octor. Lat: 44.2. Lon: 143.50 The wind
quite fair, blowing right aft. During the forepart
of the night, a Comet, was observed, and
I went on deck amp; saw it, it was very bright.
Distance 102 miles.
Monday 3d. This morning I got up out of bed
amp; went on deck about day light, to look for the
Land, but the weather being wet, calm, amp; misty
I could not discern it; but after breakfast,
being somewhat clearer, we discovered Land
almost ahead. 135 days from Leith. In
the afternoon we came up with the Land, and
after dinner went on deck, amp; saw the [Millstone]
ahead of us and the Sun shining on it,
amp; paused close by it about tea time. The
[Millstone] is a very large rock pretty far out
from the Land, and at a distance resembled
very much the Craig of Ailsa; but when
close to it, it has completely the appearance
of a Lion lying on the ground. We passed
close by it, and all the birds were flying
round about it, apparently for the purpose
of passing the night. When we first came
up with the Land, it had a very hard rocky
appearance, and very much detached into
channels of Islands called [¿]. The weather in the afternoon
was very wet amp; blowing pretty hard
which caused Capt. [¿] resolve to heave
too, as we could not stand on during the
night; and about ten oClock we hove
to, till day light, or at least till such
time as we could make the mouth of
D'Entrecastreaux's Channel, through we
intended to have run.
Tuesday 4th. This morning got out of bed amp; went
on deck about six oClock; the weather was
very cold amp; showery with a heavy wind.
Having passed the mouth of the Channel we
stood on for Storm Bay. The Land (to which
we were very near) presented a beautiful
appearance; the rocks upon the shore, were
[¿] lofty, amp; upon the top were covered
with trees as far as the eye could discern.
About breakfast time, it became squally accompanied
with heavy showers of hail.
About two oClock we anchored in Hobartown
and were immediately boarded by Capt. Cotton
of the Buffs, the Naval Officer, the Company's
acting Agent, amp; Mr. Moody the Commissary.
Before we came to Anchor, a little way, below
the Town as soon as we came in sight,
we were boarded by the Pilot Mr. Kelly,
he is very different from the Pilots on the
Clyde, dressed with his olive Surtout
dark trousers amp; light coloured vest; after
getting the ship properly moored, Mr. Kelly
came down to dinner; he is very good looking
completely the manners of a Gentleman, amp;
speaks English uncommonly well. After
we had anchored Mr. McArthur the Minister
came on board. The Land on each side of the
Derwent presents, as far as the eye can see,
the most beautiful lofty hills covered with
wood, amp; upon the shore there are beautiful
little Cottages, with part of the ground cleared
amp; the crops looking very pretty. Mount Wellington
on Table Mount has its winter coat
of snow; and as soon as we came in sight
of Mount Nelson the signal was hoisted on it,
amp; also on the Fort. There were the Andromeda
amp; Medina lying here when we arrived back
from England, the former sails immediately
for Sydney, amp; from thence returns here for
England; and the latter for India by which
Capt. Cotton goes out to join Lord [¿]
who is a relation of Capt. Cotton's.
Wednesday 5th. Went on shore after breakfast,
amp; after walking sometime about the town
called on Mr. Walkinshaws, with whom
I was very much pleased, he very kindly
requested me to accompany him to the
country for some days, which I declined
doing, (on account of the Bush rangers
who are very prevalent here; no person
can go any length out of town, without being
robbed of every thing) or the use of his
horse which is at my service any time
that I chuse. Mr. Walkinshaws saw Robt.
at Syndey about 7 months ago; he goes
home very soon from this as he is tired of
it, being now out five years. I enquired
after the Lassie Johnston's husband (who
[¿] of being at Syndey) is here. I
can find no intelligence of John McCallum.
There are Crows here the same as at home
amp; when I was out of town a little way,
there was a little beast among the grass
crying, the same as among the heather
at home. We got some potatoes for
dinner amp; loaf which were a great treat,
amp; some roasted Mutton, the equal of
whch I never saw for beauty.
I wrote to Robert by the Andromeda
to inform him of my arrival here.
Thursday 6th. This mornin the Andromeda
Sailed for Sydney, amp; by her Mr.
Scott went. The weather here is very
cold amp; showery; some of the hills along
with Mount (Nelson) Wellington are covered with
snows. [¿] the Soldier called for his letter,
he told me he has been upwards of 18 years with the Regt.
Friday 7th. Capt. Crear amp; Mr. Dudgeon went away in
the morning to Launceston, to see Mr. [¿] grant
of Land, which will detail them 10 or 14 days.
There are upwards of 90 men of the 40th. out after the
Bush Rangers.
Saturday 8th. Went up to the Barracks to see the
Soldier of the 40th. who was washing a couple pairs of
trousers for me; I saw [¿] who took me to
see the Barracks, amp; on going into the Sergeant's
house, I was astonished to see the cleanness amp;
neatness of the house. There was a fine stout
boy sitting at the fires side, amp; was told that he
was a twin; I gave him 2/6 for my Father's
sake recollecting that my Father was a twin.
Sunday 9th. Octor. I went to the Scotch Kirk in the
forenoon, and there was no Sermon in the afternoon
till 1/2 past 6, when I intended to have gave to
the Church, but I could not get on shore.
Monday 10th. Went on shore and after walking about
the town took a short ride on Mr. Walkinshaw's
horse. The price of washing my trousers was
very moderate being only one shilling for a
couple pairs of tousers. The Ladies amp; Gentlemen
dress very extravagantly here; they have very handsome
dresses.
Tuesday 11th. This morning one of Major McLeod's
Sons who stays on shore came on board amp; told me
there was a man on the Wharf of the name of
McDonald who wished to see me, and on going
up to the Wharf, I met James McDonald riding
on a Grey horse, he immediately dismounted
but I would not have known him, had not
Mr. McLachlan who was coming past while I
was speaking with McDonald, came up amp; spoke
also, they recollect each other perfectly. McDonald
has the charge of the Government horses amp; has
some stock.
Wednesday 12th. This morning there has been a great
deal of rain. The weather here is very changeable
cold amp; chilly in the evenings generally. The weather
here resembles very much the Greenock weather.
Provisions here are very high, indeed nothing
is to be had cheap. Every Sunday morning
after getting to sea, all the passengers amp; seamen
were assembled on the Quarter deck in the warm
weather amp; in the cabin in the cold weather
when Capt. [¿] is a most beautiful Navigator,
he takes his observations so correctly, amp; does
his duty on board of ship with such knowledge,
that he is indeed quite master of his profession.
Thursday 13th. This day ahs been very wet and cold
completely Greenock weather. This morning after
coming on shore was standing taking shelter in the
[porties] of a house in Town when J. McDonald
came past riding amp; pointed out Haggart the
[¿], who struck John [¿] on the eye,
but I did not recollect him. The sheets here
are very dirty, not one of them are causewayed but
full of holes which might very easily be filled
up by the Prisoners of whom there are no scarcity
in this place. There is not so much as a pavement
nor even a furrow to carry off the water but the streets from side to side
are filled with muddy [dubs] amp; holes, there is no
either on the streets amp; today the streets are almost impoſsible.
When the prisoners misbehave there is very little
time lost in punishing them. Yesterday one of the
Constables who had been out after the Bush rangers
had got tipsy amp; came down the Wharf with his Musket,
where he began to kick up a rowe, amp; presented, amp; snapped
his Musket at the Master of a Brig; Whereupon being
apprehended amp; taken up the wharf was met by Mr. Hobbs
the Wharfinger (who enquired what was the matter)
to whom he also prsented his musket, And has already
been sentenced to fifty lashes amp; transportation
for three years to McQuarrie Harbour.
Friday 14th. The weather now is getting very pleasant.
The evenings are cool amp; chilly.
There is a great deal of party spirit, existing in this
small town. In the two newspapers which are
published here, they are always making a cut at
each other, [¿] or another, and if any person
seems to differ, from the rest of the Community, he
is sure to leave himself "keelhauled" in the Newspaper.
Hobart Town is something like Port Glasgow,, where
every thing is through the Town in a "Pigs Whisper".
Mr. McLachlan, tother day, walked up the Wharf
with Miss Hawie the Governess of Major McLeod
and in a short time afterwards, he was told
that he was seen walking with a Lady.
Saturday 15th, Mr. [¿] and Mr. Dudgeon returned
from Launceston in the afternoon and were
highly delighted with the Country. Some
days ago when I was speaking with Mr. Walkinshaw,
a man came up with a black Swan, which
he waished to sell; it was jet black with a
little white at the tip of the wing. J. McDougall
from Glasgow goes about here with the same
air of impudence as he had done nothing wrong
and his daughters and wife go dressed in the
first rate style, with peach blossom gowns
Leghorn heels trimmed with white ribbons
amp; white or black (or white) veils.
Sunday 16th. Octor. I went to the Church in the
forenoon, went on board to dinner, and returned
to the Church in the evening at 6 oClock, as there
was no Sermon in the afternoon.
Monday 17th. While I was standing on the Wharf
a letter was delivered to me from Neil Millar Douglas
Son of the late Reverend Mr. Neil Douglas enquiring
if I had brought any letters, amp; requesting an answer
which I accordingly made.
Tuesday 18th. Last night the Bush rangers were
within ten miles of Hobart Town, where they
had made themselves easy in a house during
the day, besides committing a highway robbery.
All the free inhabitants of the Town have been
enlisted as volunteers to mount guard upon
the different places of public buildings, in order
that all the Soldiers may be in the bush in
pursuit of the Bush rangers; and there are only
a few Soldiers to mount Guard on the Bridewell
amp; fort. Today where I was walking up the wharf
with Mr. McLachlan, we met young Mr. Walkinshaw
with his Musket, about to take shipping for
Bassis Straits where a number of the volunteers
are ordered to loo for the Bush rangers. When
the Prisoners of the Jail knew of the Soldiers having
left Town they made an attempt to escape, but
were prevented on the alarm being made, when
several of the bricks were found extracted from
the Wall.
Wednesday 19th. The weather now is getting very warm during
the forenoon, but the climate here is very changeable.
Thursday 20th. The Medina which came out with prisoners
Sailed for India and with her Capt. cotton of the
Buffs went to join Lord [¿], who is the
relation of Capt. Cotton.
Friday 21st. This morning we weighed anchor amp; set sailed
for Sydney. The weather was very wet before
breakfast, but afterwards became fair amp; very
hot. We have a prisoner on board for Sydney,
for Boat stealing. The wind down the [¿]
was very light till tea time, when we had
a pretty smart wind. We left the River about
dark; amp; running along the coast experienced a
very heavy squall of the Land. One afternoon before
we left Hobart Town, a mouse was caught on
board almost entirely white, with the head of
a greyish colour, amp; a greyish spot above the
tail, all the rest was white.
Saturday 22d. The wind during the day was light
amp; we made little progress.The land was in sight
all day. About dinner time the wind became
contrary amp; began to blow strong. Our Cabin party
is small now; Mr. [¿] family, myself, Mr. Little
amp; Mr. Fisher, are the only Cabin passengers.
Sunday 23d. Octor. Soon after breakfast we were all
assembled in the Cabin, where Capt. [¿] read
the Morning Service of the Church of England and
read a Sermon. In the evening the boys were all
brought into the Cabin amp; Capt. Crear read a Sermon
to us all along with the boys.
I was very sick on account of the ship labouring
much in a broken sea, but I did not vomit.
But I sat at Table during dinner and eat very little.
During the time the wine was on the Table the wind
became light, the sea became smooth, and I became
quite well; the Cook who was out last voyage
was also sick, amp; one of the men.
Monday 24th. The weather very pleasant amp; the wind
fair. At dinner time when the cheese was put upon
the table the Boatswain came down, amp; told us that
the Land was in sight on the [¿] Bows on the
[¿] side, the course was N. N. W. The Whales
are numerous on these seas, amp; we have seen great many today.
Tuesday 25th. The wind during the forenoon was
very light, with a strong current, both of which
prevented us from making any progress. The
Land which we are very near, presents an appearance
comparatively level. Soon after breakfast we saw
smoke on the Land, which extended some way
along the shore amp; were informed by the prisoner
on board that the natives on seeing the ship were
making the signal for us to land. Immediately
after dinner the wind came off the Land, amp; we are
now sailing at a smart rate 1/4 to 9 P.M.
Wednesday 26th. The wind contrary amp; blowing pretty
fresh all the morning, but it has now calmed very
much 1 oClock P.M. yesterday, the weather being
fine we put up the Royal Masts.
Mr. [¿] has a Piano on board, which has just been
played amp; resembles very much in tune the Piano at
Hillend.
Thursday 27th. This morning it blew a gale off the
Land, which is in sight; but yesterday we could
not see it (except from the Mast head,) being driven
out to sea during the preceding night, with contrary
wind. On the Coast there is a conical hill, called
the Pigeon house which resembles very much
North Berwick Law. We have been beating
about all day endeavouring to get close in shore, amp; we
are now on a tack bearing upon Mount Dromedary
(1/4 to 8 P.M.) amp; intend putting about on another tack to keep
in shore, as it just now blows hard off the Land.
Friday 28th. Sweet on deck in the morning
about 7 oClock amp; we were then close to [¿]
past a very high rocky Land, where a
number of the Natives had kindled fires;
amp; on reaching the point of the rock on land
were saluted by the natives who set up
the most hideous yells on perceiving the
ship. We saw them with the Glass standing
on the point of the rock. About tea time
we were close by under the Light house on
the heads, where we were boarded by the
Pilot who took us up till within a
short way of the Cove, [¿] we were
obliged to Anchor on account of a heavy
tide against us amp; as wind. The Pilot
sent up word to town by the [¿]
boat to Robert that the Triton had arrived
He immediately came down with his
Servant amp; roused me from bed, where
I had not properly fallen asleep; it
was then about mid night, amp; I put
on my clothes amp; went up to town.
We leveled at the Dock yard amp; walked up
to the house at Cockle Bay.
[¿] [¿]. by Thos. Crawford.
Saturday 21st May 1825. sailed from Leith [¿]
with [¿] [¿]. About 1/2 past 4 a.m. went to bed with Mr. ML
before tea off the Isle of May. Sunday we were
becalmed. Monday off Aberdeen about 1/2 past 5 p.m. with a strong breeze; off John O
Groat's [¿] in the evening of Tuesday, when
we came through the Moray firth, with a
heavy sea, almost all the passengers were sick
arrived on Wednesday morning at the Orkneys
after breakfast Capt. Crear accompanied
with Messrs. Ryrie amp; [¿] set out for Kirkwall
to procure poultry amp; sheep amp; returned on the
afternoon of Thursday. Sailed on Friday
morning from the Orkneys, were off [¿]
head after breakfast, made little progress
with contrary winds and a heavy sea,
off the [¿] shore the hills were covered with seals
Saturday engaged all day in [¿] round
Cape [¿] which we at last accomplished
with very great difficulty; the wind being
contrary with heavy sea [¿] [¿] amp; squalls
the cold was very intense. Sunday off the
Lewis. Monday morning off [¿] [¿] where
we procured some fresh fish from the boats that
came along side, the fish were a great treat;
got clear off the highlands Burow heads in the afternoon
about six aclock off Mingalay the weather being very
calm the ship made little progress and the
crew delightfully [¿] the weather all the
day has been very beautiful; this afternoon
another boat came along side just after we
left the [¿], from which we bought
some [¿] skate amp; at our dinner table today
was [¿] with Mrs [¿] [¿] for the
the first time since they came on board, we had
fresh boiled fish for dinner roasted amp; boiled beef
amp; fish soup and irish stew with plumb pudding
Our [¿] party consists of Mr. amp; Mrs. [¿] amp; family
Mr. amp; Mrs. Littleton (late of the 73d) amp; family, Governess
amp; family of Major McLeod, Mr. T. Crawford amp; Mr. Chas.
MLachlan both from Greenock Messrs Little Surgeon
of the ship, [¿] from Glasgow, Scott from Edinburgh
and Dudgeon from Leith. During our
stay (our stay) at the Orkneys the [¿] that were
on shore for water did not come till midnight,
when I was awaked by the Capstone amp; the [¿]
singing all the tunes I used to hear at Greenock
quays amp; [¿] the nest "John Crow" which
lightened my heart, amp; put me in remembrence
of home. Our dinners generally consist of soup
or Irish stew roasted and boiled beef potatoes
amp;ea with plumb rice or bread pudding; wines
port amp; sherry amp; plenty of rum amp; brandy cheese amp;
bread amp; occasionally raisins. Tuesday. On awaking
this morning found the ship labouring very much
the [¿] boxes amp;ea in the Cabin rolling about and
on enquiry was told that we were on the Atlantic
Ocean, at breakfast it blew very fresh and by
dinner time increased to a Gale, the dinner dishes
were rocking about the table and some things
broken, the wind blew so strong amp; the sea now
so high that we with difficulty could sit at
table, stools rolling about the Cabin. Towards
the evening the Gale decreased but the ship
rolled very much on acct. of having swell will
S. S. U. going with close reefed top sails Gib amp; [¿] sail
Wednesday1st June. Blowing hard with a very heavy
sea with difficulty could sit at table on accot. of
ship rolling, broke a number of dishes. Thursday 2d.
the wind not much less, but heavy seas running.
Dudgeon still in bed. The Irish stew that was
set on table for the children's dinner rolled off the table amp;
lost on the Cabin floor a great quantity came into my
berth. Capt. [¿] uniformly claims two toasts after
dinner viz. "The King" and "all our Friends" after which
the passengers call for any toast they think proper.
The Steward of this ship was with Capt. Parry
on his expedition amp; was with Dr. Richardson when
he shot the Indian who (he) murdered Mr. Hood.
the 2d. Mate (whose name is Black) is a Greenock
lad amp; sailed in the "Protector" with Capt. [¿]
We amuse ourselves at Cards and reading, we
breakfast about 8 and dine about 3 and drink
tea about 7. McLachlan has been complaining
for some days. Mr. Littleton has been very ill,
notwithstanding the long voyages he has had
Mr. [¿] says he met with David at his brother's
Mr. N [¿] the [¿]. Friday 3d the weather
not much better than it has been for some days, the
ship rolling very much; towards the evening a
brig was seen at some distance McLachlan thought
she was very like a brig from Greenock called
the "Eliza Ann";; during the night the wind
blew very strong; when I awoke the ship was
labouring very much, amp; making some head. Dudgeon
went on deck for a few minutes was obliged
to go to bed again. Miss [Hamil] the Governess of
Major McLeod suffered very much. Mr. Littleton still
very ill cannot stay below he is always on deck.
Saturday 4th the weather somewhat calm, but
the swell still heavy; towards it calmed.
Sunday 5th June. The weather greatly calmed, the
sea much smoother, and the day delightful; about
mid-day discovered a vessel bearing upon us, and in
a short time she was close to us; she hove to amp; we
hailed each other, amp; found that she was from Jamaica
for Bristol, amp; Capt. [¿] requested the Master
to report us on his arrival, which he said he would
do; she was a beautiful little Brig with her name
on her stern "Catharine of Montega Bay [¿]." She was
39 days from Jamaica. Capt. [¿] told us, we were
about the commencement of the Bay of Biscay. The
Steward rings a bell about 1/2 past 7 in the morning for the
passengers to rise amp; dress for breakfast, amp; at sametime measures
out the water for each passenger (that is up) to wash; unless we are
up before breakfast amp; call for the water, we dont get
any at all. We had for dinner two roasted fowls [¿]
[¿] amp; a fowl baked in a pudding ([¿]) the same as a
beef stake pudding; we very frequently have beef
stake puddings to dinner. I had a tumbler of whisky
today [¿] day for the first time since I left Scotland
it was a great great, amp; made me think of [¿].
Before going to bed I went on deck at the request of Mr.
Fisher to see as it were sparks of fire upon the water;
I never saw the same before, it resembles very much
the Stars. Monday 6th June. The weather very easy
and pleasant the ship making some motion, Mr.
Dudgeon very seldom out of bed takes very little food.
Tuesday 7th June. The weather very beautiful with a
fresh breeze all the Cabin passengers on deck also
Mrs. amp; Miss [¿] who now breakfast amp; dine with us; when
she came near to us we made her a signal amp;
perceived her to be a [¿] vessel (Schooner).
I perceived from the almanack the [¿] [¿] would
be held on the first Tuesday in June, I [¿]
of being there last year, amp; wondered if any of our
family were there. Dudgeon was on deck
but could not come to dinner. Capt. [¿]
is a very exemplary man. He takes the [¿]
boys into his room on Sunday nights after tea amp; [¿]
them read. I suppose Mr. Newton would set sail
for Naples till midsummer. I often dream about home
amp; the family also Mr. [¿]. I very often look for a steam
boat as Newton may come this way. Wednesday 8th June
the wind rather against us but the weather fine; we
see occasionally some vessels at a distance. Thursday
9th June. The wind still against us and the weather
beautiful, all the Cabin passengers on deck, male amp; female
went on deck about 12 oClock at night amp; remained there
for sometime with Mr. Black the 2d. Mate during his
watch; Mr. Black and I have many stories about Greenock.
I will now give a plan amp; description of the
Cabin table. Those lines marked "puddings" are canvas bags
stuffed tight with corn amp; pease, about the size of a [¿],
amp; tied at each end of the table, to prevent the dishes rolling
off. Between the sides of the Cabin amp; the table, are fixed
stakes that reach from the floor to the roof of the cabin,
and fastened to these stakes are long pieces of canvas that reach
from end to end, about 1/2 a foot broad, so that where
we sit at table the canvas is about the small or
middle of the back, amp; prevents us from tumbling
off the stools. There is also suspend from the roof of
the Cabin, a rack for holding wine amp; water decanters
tumblers glasses amp;ea amp; prevents them from being broken
Friday 10th June. The wind still against us from S. W.
we have been on a long tack for some days. The weather
is beautiful and the ship making little motion. Soon
after breakfast I discovered a swallow following the
ship, amp; endeavouring to light about the deck. Dudgeon
showed to be [¿] deck reading amp; after flying about for a
short time, it lighted on the book that he was
reading amp; set for a second or two; Mr. [¿] who was
lying at the stern, with his legs elevated on the deck,
also received a visit from the swallow, by lighting
on his knee; it afterwards was caught by the
Steward during the time of dinner, in the passage
leading to the cabin, amp; let go; and I heard it singing
in some of the cabins, long after dinner, It was supposed
to have wandered from the rest, as it was very much
fatigued, amp; appeared quite exhausted. This would almost
suit Measures to fill up a paragraph in this paper. In
the afternoon about sunset, we perceived a large ship,
a long way from us. Saturday 11th. June. The swallow
was found this morning in one of the cabins, unable to
fly, amp; in a short time afterwards was found dead. The weather
was very beautiful the wind much in the same direction as
it has been for some days previous. Towards the evening
we were becalmed, and it became very foggy. Sunday
12th. June. The weather very beautiful, very warm, and
not a breath of wind, with a very thick fogg, which
lasted all day, we made very little progress. Monday
13th June. The weather calm amp; beautiful with a little fogg,
but about mid-day a breeze sprung up from S. S. W. and
I went on deck, she was sailing remarkably well, with
a sharp breeze. The night was beautiful, clear, amp; starry.
Tuesday 14th June. The wind quite fair, amp; the ship sailing
very smooth with little motion. The weather very beautiful
and pleasant on deck. Towards the afternoon a flock of
porpoises were seen playing about the ship; and before
going to bed I went on deck; and saw the porpoises
swimming on the surface of the water; they formed
as it were a [stream] of light on the water. [¿]
15th June. The wind quite fair amp; the ship making little
or no motion. The weather quite delightful, amp; warm; we
put up the awning for the first time. It is extremely
hot in bed, with great difficulty can allow the blankets
to cover me. Soon after breakfast saw a Brig to the
Leeward, amp; made her a signal which she answered,
and immediately after saw a Schooner ahead, she hove
to, and we spoke to each other; she was from [¿]
bound for London amp; promised to report us on her
arrival; her name was the "Express" of Newcastle
we were then in Longitude 15.30. Thursday 16th June
The weather calm amp; quite beautiful, with a little wind
and the ship quite steady. It is now very hot amp; all on
board looking out anxiously for Madeira, that we
may get there some fruit amp; fresh vegetables. Friday 17th
June. The wind very light amp; the water smooth
the ship very steady. The water is now quite
blue, and the Sun right above us. The heat in
bed is quite oppressive; I lie (with) with my one
single blanket half on. After tea the passengers
had one of the men playing the fiddle on deck,
amp; commenced dancing reels [¿] deuces amp; quadrilles
till a late hour, amp; afterwards had port wine [¿]
Mr. McLachlan (on accot. of eating pork) has been complaining
today, amp; in the evening was bled.
Saturday 18th June. The weather very delightful and the
water calm. The ship sailing very smoothly, with a
light breeze, at the rate of from 4 to 6 [notes]. The cabin
passengers after dinner had a bowl of punch (but I
preferred a Tumbler of Toddy) being the anniversary of
Waterloo. Sunday 19th June. The weather quite delightfull
amp; the ship sailing at a smart rate, very steady, it is
now very hot. About mid-day discovered Land ahead
at a very great distance almost imperceptible amp; were
informed by Capt. Crear that it was the Island of
Porto Santo, one of the Madeiras; Had we not been told
by Capt. Crear that it was land we never could
have discovered it till we were close to it. About
5 oClock (immediately after dinner) I came upon deck
amp; we were then just off amp; close to the Land. This
[¿] Mr. McLachlan amp; I observed, was very like the
high hills behind the Duke of Argyles Stables, in
other words the Dukes bowling Green. We very
soon lost the Island as we sailed quick past it.
About tea time we discovered at a great distance
another Island, called the Desertas, also one of the
Madeiras, and Madeira itself, but kept far off amp;
passed the Desertas during the night, Monday 20th
June. The weather is really most beautiful. The sea
calm, amp; the ship sailing at an easy rate, with little
or no motion. Tuesday 21st June. After getting myself dressed
this morning went on deck amp; discoverd Land ahead
at a very great distance, was told that it was
Teneriffe. Immediately after breakfast commenced writing home
amp; about noon we were nearer the Land amp; had a complete
view of the Peak. About dinner time came
in sight of Santo Cruz the Capital of the Canaries,
amp; about 1/2 past dropped Anchor close to the town
of Santo Cruz. Soon after we had dropped Anchor
we were visited by the [¿] boat amp; after some
formality were permitted to go on shore where we
chuse. Capt. Crear after tea went on shore amp; procured
some fruit. Wednesday 22d. June. After breakfast
went on shore accompanied by Mr. McLachlan,
went to the Inn where we met Capt. Crear who
had breakfasted there; were engaged along with
the Cabin passengers to dine there, amp; after dinner
all except myself went to ride into the [¿]
amp; did return till late. Thursday 23d June.
Went on shore amp; procured a few peaches, amp; returned
on board; the heat in the town being quite excessive.
Friday 24th Early in the morning
was awaked by Mr. Littleton to go on deck amp;
assist at the Cap-stone. The ship is getting
under weigh, with her sails set, amp; in heaving
up the Anchor had caught hold of a Schooners
Anchor that was close to, the wind being fresh
drove the ship [¿] near the pier amp; was almost
on shore upon the rocks, when we hove out
another anchor which just caught her up
when she was within a few yards of the
pier. After we got fairly out from the pier we
set sail. The natives of Santa Cruz are very indolent,
amp; Greedy as soon as we went on shore they
ran after us begging. The dress of the women is
very peculiar; they have a blanket that covers the
head amp; hangs down their back amp; on their head
over the blanket is a hat, the same hat as is
worn by the men. Camels are very common
there instead of draught horses, they carry
very heavily burdens on their back; the ass also in
Santa Cruz is very plenty amp; a small kind of
horse, there are no Carts there. Oxen are also
in great abundance amp; instead of dragging
by the neck they drag by the horns a sort
of sledge without wheels, amp; upon this machine
they drag their wine amp; water; the natives
drive the horses amp; oxen into the sea amp; swim along
with them to wash them. There are a number
of very fine bells in Santa Cruz, there was one
bell which was very like the high Church
Bell of Edinburgh. I observed a man in
Santa Cruz who I thought was very like
William Glen of Largs. Mr. Ryrie went on
shore with his [¿] [¿], amp; he excited
the surprise of all the natives who saw him
particularly when he was mounted on
horseback. Saturday 25th. The weather very
beautiful amp; sailing along the trades with a
fair wind. Sunday 26th. June. The weather
very beautiful, with a fair wind right astern,
blowing pretty fresh with studding sails set.
Monday 27th. The wind amp; weather quite delightful
amp; sailing with the most of our sails set. Tuesday
28th. The weather very beautiful. This morning very
early experienced a heavy Gale, was informed
that it was the tail of a Tornado, the ship rolled
very much, about breakfast time it calmed
amp; we had a calm all day. Wednesday 29th
We were becalmed all day and were very very [¿]
the awnings set fore amp; aft. The sailors [¿] are
[¿] with the heat of the Sun. I had a very
sore throat and suppose that it was on account
of the change from cold to heat. The evenings
are truly beautiful amp; delightful, the moon shining
very clear amp; the evenings cool. Thursday 30th. The
wind fair amp; easy and the weather delightfully [¿]
the Ladies after tea amuse themselves with
dancing on deck or playing cards in the
cabin. Friday1st July. Made the Island of
St. Antony one of the Cape Verde, amp; passed between
it amp; St. Vincent another of the Cape Verde.
On the latter Island (St. Vincent), there is a
Crag very like Salisbury Crags, amp; Mr. Littleton
took an outline of the Island, for Capt. Crear
We experienced a heavy squall coming
through the Cape Verde, amp; after we left the Island
which was after dinner; we had a strong
breeze that drove us at the rate of nine
knotts, which continued all night.
Saturday 2d July. The breeze strong during the
the forenoon, but it endured towards
the afternoon amp; we made little progress. Sunday
3d July. We had a light breeze of wind, and went
along very well. Soon after breakfast went on deck
amp; saw a very fine large ship at a great distance
The heat now is very strong, all the Cabin passengers
remain on deck till very late, the heat
is so oppressive in the Cabin. Monday 4th July
Light winds during the day amp; in the evening experienced
a Thunder Storm. The Lightning was very
vivid and the flashes were very numerous. The Thunder
was very loud. The rain was so heavy that I
never saw the like of it, and as soon as Capt. [¿]
observed the rain, he caused the awning be
spread to preserve the rain for drinking, and
I put on my great coat, went on deck amp; lent a
hand to fill the buckets along with Mr. Fisher
amp; young Mr. Ryrie, amp; remained on deck til a late
hour. The rain that came through the awning
very soon pierced my old fur cap amp; had it not
been for my great coat, I would have been
drenched to the skin. We are now in sight
of the Southern Croſs. The winds are very light
amp; the weather very fine; the heat is very great.
Tuesday 5th July. The weather very warm
amp; the wind light. Capt. Barwick in his
letter requested me to annoy very seldom the
Capt. of the ship with questions, as sailors are
not fond of being troubled with questions;
amp; for which reason I cannot give the Latitude
amp; Longitude. I forgot to mention that the
natives of Teneriffe fish during the night with
Torch light, along the coast. The houses
are all roofed with Tyle, amp; have no chimneys.
There was a Gentlemen of the name of Mr.
Manly who is a Mercht. in the Great [¿],
he is an English man, amp; made up to us at
the Inn, amp; shewed the passengers great
attention, amp; dined on board. Wednesday
6th July. Light winds amp; the ship sailing slow
about Sunset we observed Lightning, which increased
during the night. Thursday 7th July Latitude 8.30 north
I was wakened this morning at day break with the noise of
the Sailors [hulling] the sails, amp; the rain falling
upon the deck, went on deck to assist in
preserving the rain from the awning. The
Lightning was very bright amp; the Thunder very
loud. During the (during) the day we had
little wind. Towards the night we experienced
a heavy squal which increased amp;
carried away the earlier fastening of one of
the [¿] sails. I did not forget to drink
my Father's health and all the family in a
tumbler of brandy toddy being the Greenock
fair day; amp; gave Capt. [¿] amp; Mr. McLachlan
a [¿] out of my [hose]. Friday 8th July. The
wind blowing strong amp; contrary to our course, we
were obliged to tack. There is a ship at a distance which has
been on the same course with us for several
days. I have seen a great many flying fish, they
generally are seen in flocks. Saturday 9th July.
The weather very fine amp; the heat very great; put out
some of my cloathes to dry. Sunday 10th July.
The wind and weather very fine during the forenoon,
when afterwards it began to rain very much
which continued all day, amp; we were obliged
to remain in the Cabin. Monday 11th July.
I immediately after breakfast we observed a
ship at a little distance; we made her a
signal which she answered, amp; discoverd her
to be a british vessel. She was a very beautiful ship.
The wind pretty fresh, and neither against us
It is very soon dark now, amp; the nights are very
long; the flies are very thick, especially in the
morning in bed, we can get no rest on accot.
of them troubling us. Tuesday 12th July. Weather
beautiful amp; hot with a smart breeze contrary
to our course. About dark in the evening
we put upon another tack, and the wind
afterwards became very variable. Wednesday
13th July. Smart breeze and we sailed at a pretty
sharp rate. About mid-day put upon another
tack. Capt. [¿] did not [have] the top
of the table as he was unwell but was succeeded
by Mr. Dudgeon; neither Mr. Little the
Surgeon, nor Mr. McLachlan were at dinner
on accot. of being ill. Thursday 14th July.
Smart breeze and the ship sailing very well. Mr.
[¿] amp;ea are now better. Friday 15th July.
Smart breeze blowing fresh; saw a great
number of flying fish. The ship sailing
smartly with a little motion. Saturday
16th July. Light winds and sailing smoothly;
we were delighted with the beautiful weather
for some days past; amp; the stars at night
amp; the setting sun are very grand. Sunday
17th July. Light winds and we made little progress.
The weather was very beautiful. Monday
18th July. Fresh breeze and the ship sailing
well. Tuesday 19th Fresh pleasant breeze and
the Sun very hot. Wednesday 20th. Fresh pleasant
breeze and Capt. Crear when he made his observation
at 12 oClock said we were very near
the Line amp; we crossed the Line sometime about
dinner time. Capt. [¿] was very averse
to any shaving taking place on accot. of some
misunderstanding among the passengers
last voyage; that a few of the passengers
seemed so determined to be shaved; that
Capt. [¿] told them they would be
responsible for the consequence, as he
would not interfere, amp; the shaving was
postponed. Thursday 21st. Soon after
breakfast, the shaving commenced and
it really was a most disagreeable
operation, wet swabs put over the shoulders
[¿] instead of being soaped with
paint [¿] either grease or [¿] shaved with
a rusty hoop powdered with flower amp; water
buckets of water dashed about the head
amp; afterwards tumb led backwrds into a
boat of dirty water. After getting out of
the boat there were buckets of dirty water
thrown about. The worst of it was a
handkerchief tied over the eyes before going
forward to undergo this operation of shaving
amp; different stuffs were made up in bottles
which you were obliged to drink if you
opened the mouth to answer the questions
that were put, amp; if not taken voluntarily
were thrown down the throat when the
mouth was open. I did not like the
operation of shaving at all. After being
shaved I fell upon deck amp; sprained my
shoulder, which caused much pain.
The Ladies were not excluded from shaving with
the rest in a hearty ducking; Mrs. amp; Miss Ryrie
were soused with water. Soon after dinner the
sailors were called aft to the [¿] deck amp; danced
till far in the evening, amp; were allowed a very
tolerable quantity of spirits, in fact all were
pretty much in the wind. After the dancing
was over we went to the cabin amp; had some
rum punch amp; a few [¿]. Friday 22d We
had a smart breeze amp; sailed very well; there
are plenty of flying fish seen in flocks.
Saturday 23d. There was a flying fish found on deck
in the morning when the men were about
to wash the deck. it was about the
size of a small herring, amp; not so thick as a
herring, but a broad back amp; head. The
wings consist of a large fin which projects
from behind the head amp; reaches
near to the tail. Mr. Dudgeon stuffed
it for himself. Sunday 24th July. The
weather very beautiful and the wind blowing
pretty fresh. The evenings are very grand;
we have moonlight. Monday 25th. The
weather very fine and the wind not so
strong; but we have a smart pleasant
breeze. My shoulder is a little better, but
still it is painful. Tuesday 26th. Pleasant
breeze during the forenoon, amp; in the afternoon
about dinner time in began to rain a little
amp; blow. Wednesday 27th. Blowing fresh and
the ship making some motion. Thursday
28th. Pleasant wind and the weather very fine
We had a nice sea pie for dinner; it consisted
of fresh pork potatoes amp; dough. Friday 29th.
Light pleasant winds amp; a little rain. Saturday
30th. Calm pleasant weather. Made the island of [¿]. Sunday 31st.
July. The weather calm, hot, amp; delightfully [¿].
Monday 1st. Augt. Soon after breakfast a few sharks were
seen about, close by the ship; one of the men very ingeniously
with a simple running loop put a rope
over one of their heads, which did not hold by
the head but by the tail amp; all hands were busy pulling
it up. Before bringing it up on deck the cook
made an incision in his belly with a carving
knife while hanging by the tail, amp; it made very
great exertions to lay hold of the Cook, in cutting
it up. After having cut up the belly we brought
it on deck amp; cut off his tail when the blood
ran very forcefully; amp; all were waiting to lay
hold of a [fin] the tail head amp; all amp; in a few minutes
we completely striped him of every thing amp;
threw the carcass over. I was told by Mr. Littleton
that without the tail it measured seven feet;
the tail would measure about a foot or something
more. A small part of its tail was afterwards dressed
for dinner, of which I partook, but it really was
strong rank food; not so delicate amp; pallateable
as [turbot]. The portion of it that I eat was very
trifling. We have seen a few whales pretty
near the ship amp; almost as large, as Capt. Crear
told us. Tuesday 2d. The weather calm during
the forenoon, but about dinner time it began
to blow fresh, amp; continued equally during
the (during the) night, with occasional
showers of rain, a heavy sea, amp; the ship
rolling much. The squalls accompanied
with showers of rain. There are a few
Cape Pigeons following the ship, they are black,
amp; white speckled on the back; and very like a
common pigeon both in size amp; appearance.
The weather is very cold, the most of the passengers
have [drawn] to their thick clothes. Friday
5th. The weather very squally amp; blowing strong with
showers of rain. The squalls are instantaneous amp;
very strong; with a heavy rolling sea amp; the ship
labouring much. Saturday 6th, Light winds
during the day, amp; in the afternoon it began to
blow a little, not strong, but easy. Sunday
7th. Pleasant wind during the day amp; continued
during the evening, and the weather very
beautiful. Observed a ship a long way
astern. Monday 8th. The wind light amp; the weather
beautiful. One of the sailor lads in this ship
is a son of Mason the Player. Some of the sails of
this ship bear the name of Mr. Nab amp; the signal
the name of Mr. Maitland. Between dinner
amp; tea two Cape Pigeons were caught. Tuesday
9th. The weather very warm amp; beautiful amp; the wind
light. Wednesday 10th. The weather calm amp; beautiful amp;
hot. After tea the wind became fair amp; we set
all sails. Thursday 11th. The wind quite fair right
astern and the weather beautiful; the ship making
little motion amp; the water very smooth, caught
a good many Cape pigeons. Friday 12th. The
wind fair amp; the weather beautiful; the ship
rolling a little. I thought of the shooting at
home; the most of the passengers were talking
about the hunting. Latitude 31.13. In the evening
the steerage passengers kept up the fun and
drank the Kings Health. Saturday 13th. The wind
strong and very fair, amp; the ship sailing right before
it. The weather beautiful. After tea the rain
came on. Sunday 14th Augt. The wind not so strong
after breakfast; but about mid-day the Capt. gave
orders to shorten sail, amp; before the sails were all
trimmed, it came on a very heavy squall accompanied
with thunder Lightning amp; rain. We
were all anxiously looking out for the Island of Tristan
D'Acunha an Island abreast of the Cape of Good
Hope where Capt. [¿] expected to get some vegetables,
but the weather being changeable amp; as appearance
of the Island at SunSet, we bore away
to the Eastward to avoid the Island altogether.
Monday 15th. The wind fair amp; the weather cold with
occasional showers of rain. Tuesday 16th. The wind
fair and the weather cold with showers of rain.
Wednesday 17th. The wind fair and the weather cold.
Thursday 18th. The wind fair and the weather cold.
Friday 19th. The wind fair and the weather cold;
in the evening the wind increased amp; blew strong,
with occasional showers of haill amp; rain.
Saturday 20th. The wind strong amp; the weather cold
two of the passengers were a little sick vizt.
The Surgeon Mr. Little amp; Mr. Dudgeon. The ship
rolling very much. Sunday 21st. The wind
pleasant amp; the weather a little cold. Monday
22d. The wind easy, with squalls, amp; occasional
showers of rain. There are a few Albatrosses
flying about the ship, they are seen mostly
about the Cape of Good Hoe, they are very
large and of different colours. I was told
by the Son of Major McLeod, that his Father
on his passage out in the [¿] shot
one which measured eleven feet from
the tip of one wing to the tip of the other.
Tuesday 23d. The wind not so fair as for some
days, amp; the weather pleasantly cold, just like
harvest weather at home. Wednesday 24th.
The wind not quite fair for us, amp; the weather pleasant.
Thursday 25th. The wind during the day
about the same direction, but in the evening
the wind came right aft, it was not very
cold. Friday 26th. About breakfast time the
wind shifted round to the quarter amp; blew
pretty strong, amp; the ship sailed fast. Saturday
27th. The weather very pleasant amp; the wind not very
strong. Sunday 28th. The wind steady amp; the weather
very pleasant. We had a couple of geese for dinner
amp; plumb pudding. Also Mulligatawny soup. This is our dinner
generally on Sunday. Besides salt beef amp; salt bork
amp; other provisions which we have during the
week. Monday 29th. The wind steady, amp;
the ship sailing very well; occasionally
sailing at the rate of from eight to nine
knotts, the weather cool amp; quite delightful.
One of the steerage passengers is a Neilston Lad
of the name of Craig; his brother has a property in
Neilston Parish called Kirkton, he is a cousin to
Mr. Kerr's friend Sergeant Howie of Mearns; before
coming away he called upon Mr. Smith
of [¿]; amp; he got a letter from
John Ross of Beith to Robert. One f the
men who was out last voyage in this
ship, comes from Ayr; his name is [¿]
amp; he sailed from Greenock several voyages
amp; sailed in the employ of Neilson amp; [¿]
And one of the boys who was also out
last voyage was [¿] about
Annie Lodge, (his name is Eddington) his
mother was Housekeeper there, amp; Cook at Eglinton
Castle.
Tuesday 30th. The wind steady and the ship
sailing very well with little motion. Lat:40.3 amp;
Longitude 32.20 [¿]
Wednesday 32st. The wind steady during the
day, but in the afternoon it began to blow
fresh, amp; increased to a GAle, when a few
of the sails were taken down amp; the rest
reefed; went to bed about twelve oClock
amp; it then blew strong. Lon: 30.52. Thursday 1st Septr.
the wind steady and easy till towards the
afternoon, when it began to blow pretty fresh,
the weather cold. Lat 41.31 Longitude 41.34.
Friday 2d. The wind not so strong as for some
days, but very cold, Lat. 41.32. Lon: 45.58. For some
days past Capt. Crear has put up a card showing
the Latitude amp; Longitude, which enabled me to write
the Longitude amp; Latitude, but formerly it merely
was by chance that I heard what the Latitude
amp; Longitude was. Saturday 3d. Lat: 41.52 Longitude
49.25 The wind during the forenoon was light, and
towards the afternoon, it became calm. Before
dinner a dead whale was observed ahead of the ship
quite close to us, covered with white Albatrosses
amp; Cape Pigeons; it came close by the side of
the ship floating on its back, amp; it appeared
to have been dead for some time, for there
were two holes in the belly apparently made
by the birds, amp; the smell was very strong.
Sunday 4th. Septr. Lat: 42.20 Lon: 52.36. We had roasted
pork for dinner. The weather pleasant during the
day, but in the afternoon it began to blow fresh
after dinner, which increased during the night
accompanied with very heavy rain, amp; very
dark. Monday 5th Lat: 43.5 Lon: 55.50 About
six oClock in the morning I was awaked
with the ship rolling very much, got up, wen
on deck amp; found the ship completely becalmed,
with very little wind, amp; a heavy sea which
caused her [roll] so much, but after breakfast
a wind sprung up amp; we went on well.
Tuesday 6th Lat: 43.20 Lon: 59.35. The wind fair and
the weather cold amp; pleasant. Wednesday 7th. The
wind blowing fresh, with an occasional sea making
its way over the ship. Lat: 43.40 Lon. 63.55 The
weather cold upon deck. Thursday 8th Lat: 43.34
Lon: 68.23 The weather cold, amp; the wind blowing fresh.
3460 Miles distant from Van diemens Land.
Friday 9th Lat: 43.28 Lon: 70.40 The wind very light
during the forenoon, which gradually increased
to a steady wind, and the weather very beautiful
just like a spring day at home. Saturday 10th
Lat: 43.33 Lon: 73.35. 3215 miles. The weather showery
and the wind blowing fresh with hail showers
Sunday 11th Septr. Latitude 43.22 Longitude 77.47.
3020 Miles from Van Diemans Land. The wind fair
and the weather beautiful. Monday 12th. Lat: 43.37
Lon: 81.53 Blowing a Gale of wind, the ship
rolling very much amp; shipping a great many seas;
a few of the passengers are sick yet, were obliged
to leave the dinner table. Sailed with double reefed
main topsail, reefed mail stay sail, full sail
amp; close-reefed [¿] sail. The ship is rolling so
much that it is with great difficulty that I
can write. 2840 miles. Tuesday 13th. The wind
not much [¿], with very heavy rain which
continued during the day, till about dinner time
when the wind began to slack, amp; became calm
during the forepart of the night. Lot: 44.0 Lon:
86.25 2645 miles. Wednesday 14th. The wind
aft, and the weather beautiful; the ship
rolling very much on account of the heavy
sea, which in general runs high here.
In [¿], when there is no wind whatever
amp; the sails flapping against the masts,
the ship rolls so much, that we cannot
stand on deck without the hold of a
rope. In that last Gale, there were two
men about the helm (wheel) one was at the
wheel, amp; the other with a tackle attached
to the tiller, to asist the one at the wheel,
with a rope tied round his waist.
Lat: 44.52 Lon: 89.40. 2485 miles. Thursday
15th Lat: 44.30 Lon: 93.34. distance 2300 miles.
The wind blowing fresh and the ship sailing
very well. The weather beautiful with a
very clear Atmosphere, amp; not a cloud to be seen
during the day. Friday 16th Lat: 44.38 Lon:
98.5 Encountered a heavy Gale of wind with
a very heavy sea; both of which continued during
the day. The seas very frequently broke upon
the side amp; came over the ship; every sea that
struck made the whole ship shake very
much.The wind howled through the rigging
tremendously, amp; when the sea (the sea) struck
the side of the (side of the) ship you thought
it would drive in her side altogether.
Robert might well envy the bed of the
old black horse at Hillend. distance
2085 miles which is a run of 215 in one
day. Saturday 17th. The weather very wet amp;
some of the passengers on deck during the
day on account of the rain. The wind
pretty strong, which changed from the
one side to the other, amp; caused a very heavy
cross sea; the ship rolled very much. Lat:
44.35 Lon: 102.28. 1895 miles. Sunday 18th
Septr. Lat: 43.24. Lon: 105.0 The wind contrary
which caused us put on another tack, but
in the forepart of the evening, the wind came
round again, amp; we stood on the right course.
The weather rainy. distance 1790 miles.
Monday 19th. Lat: 42.55 Lon: 108.35 The wind fair
amp; steady, the weather beautiful, amp; the ship sailing
well with very little motion. distance
1650 miles. Tuesday 20th Lat: 43.25
Lon: 113.0 The wind steady and the weather beautiful,
the ship making little motion. distance
1450 miles. Wednesday 21st. Lat: 43.25 Lon: 116.
50 The wind very light amp; the weather pleasant
distance 1275 miles. Thursday 22d. Lat: 43.5
Lon: 118.45 The weather wet amp; the wind contrary,
about mid-day we were obliged to put about
again amp; got upon the right course. distance
1202 miles. Friday 23d. Lat: 43.21 on: 121.10 The wind
blowing pretty fresh, and the weather cold. The
Cabin Steerage amp; foxhole are washed out once a
week; amp; during the hot weather were fumigated
with vinegar. The Sailors on board this Ship
are very differently fed from the Sailors on Clyde
they have coffee to breakfast, beef bork or Pease
Soup for dinner also plumb pudding with a gill of rum, amp; in the
evening at 6 oClock they have beef or Pork
amp; biscuit, with coffee which they provide for
themselves; but another allowance of rum
which the Ship provides. distance 1100
miles. Saturday 24th. Lat: 43.8 Lon: 125.45 The
weather cold, and the wind light at least not
so strong as on friday. One of the boys in coming
[¿] the companion with a fine large pie,
fell with the whole contents. The Cook has
been unwell for some days, amp; on that we are
obliged to put with some inconvenience.
Distance 895 miles.
Monday 26th. Lat: 44.20. Lon: 127.44. The wind
contrary, and we made little or no progress, were
obliged to tack several times. The weather pleasant
Distance still 805 miles.
Tuesday 27th. The wind light amp; a little contrary,
and the weather cold amp; pleasant. Lat: 44.48
Lon: 129.24. Distance 720 miles.
Wednesday 28th. Lat: 45.1. Lon: 132.0. The wind
pretty fair during the day, amp; in the afternoon
it came on rain which brought the winds round
amp; we stood on the right course. After tea the
rain went off, and became very clear, the
Moon was shining very clear, and the night
very beautiful. Distance 615 miles.
Thursday 29th. Lat: 44.31 Lon: 135.28 The wind
during the forenoon became light amp; we were
becalmed, but towards night the wind
got up amp; the ship sailed along pretty smoothly
Distance 470 miles. Mr. McLachlan presented
me with Mr. Knowles' [Elocutionist.]
Friday 30th. Lat: 43.45. Lon: 137.36. The wind
during the forenoon was very fair, but light,
and towards evening we were becalmed.
Distance 370 miles.
Saturday 1st. Octor. Lat: 44.20. Lon: 139.58 The
wind during the day was pretty fresh, amp; towards
evening, a little after tea, it became quite
dark, amp; began to blow very hard; very few
sails were set, amp; any that were set were all
reefed. Distance 265 miles.
Sunday 2d. Octor. Lat: 44.2. Lon: 143.50 The wind
quite fair, blowing right aft. During the forepart
of the night, a Comet, was observed, and
I went on deck amp; saw it, it was very bright.
Distance 102 miles.
Monday 3d. This morning I got up out of bed
amp; went on deck about day light, to look for the
Land, but the weather being wet, calm, amp; misty
I could not discern it; but after breakfast,
being somewhat clearer, we discovered Land
almost ahead. 135 days from Leith. In
the afternoon we came up with the Land, and
after dinner went on deck, amp; saw the [Millstone]
ahead of us and the Sun shining on it,
amp; paused close by it about tea time. The
[Millstone] is a very large rock pretty far out
from the Land, and at a distance resembled
very much the Craig of Ailsa; but when
close to it, it has completely the appearance
of a Lion lying on the ground. We passed
close by it, and all the birds were flying
round about it, apparently for the purpose
of passing the night. When we first came
up with the Land, it had a very hard rocky
appearance, and very much detached into
channels of Islands called [¿]. The weather in the afternoon
was very wet amp; blowing pretty hard
which caused Capt. [¿] resolve to heave
too, as we could not stand on during the
night; and about ten oClock we hove
to, till day light, or at least till such
time as we could make the mouth of
D'Entrecastreaux's Channel, through we
intended to have run.
Tuesday 4th. This morning got out of bed amp; went
on deck about six oClock; the weather was
very cold amp; showery with a heavy wind.
Having passed the mouth of the Channel we
stood on for Storm Bay. The Land (to which
we were very near) presented a beautiful
appearance; the rocks upon the shore, were
[¿] lofty, amp; upon the top were covered
with trees as far as the eye could discern.
About breakfast time, it became squally accompanied
with heavy showers of hail.
About two oClock we anchored in Hobartown
and were immediately boarded by Capt. Cotton
of the Buffs, the Naval Officer, the Company's
acting Agent, amp; Mr. Moody the Commissary.
Before we came to Anchor, a little way, below
the Town as soon as we came in sight,
we were boarded by the Pilot Mr. Kelly,
he is very different from the Pilots on the
Clyde, dressed with his olive Surtout
dark trousers amp; light coloured vest; after
getting the ship properly moored, Mr. Kelly
came down to dinner; he is very good looking
completely the manners of a Gentleman, amp;
speaks English uncommonly well. After
we had anchored Mr. McArthur the Minister
came on board. The Land on each side of the
Derwent presents, as far as the eye can see,
the most beautiful lofty hills covered with
wood, amp; upon the shore there are beautiful
little Cottages, with part of the ground cleared
amp; the crops looking very pretty. Mount Wellington
on Table Mount has its winter coat
of snow; and as soon as we came in sight
of Mount Nelson the signal was hoisted on it,
amp; also on the Fort. There were the Andromeda
amp; Medina lying here when we arrived back
from England, the former sails immediately
for Sydney, amp; from thence returns here for
England; and the latter for India by which
Capt. Cotton goes out to join Lord [¿]
who is a relation of Capt. Cotton's.
Wednesday 5th. Went on shore after breakfast,
amp; after walking sometime about the town
called on Mr. Walkinshaws, with whom
I was very much pleased, he very kindly
requested me to accompany him to the
country for some days, which I declined
doing, (on account of the Bush rangers
who are very prevalent here; no person
can go any length out of town, without being
robbed of every thing) or the use of his
horse which is at my service any time
that I chuse. Mr. Walkinshaws saw Robt.
at Syndey about 7 months ago; he goes
home very soon from this as he is tired of
it, being now out five years. I enquired
after the Lassie Johnston's husband (who
[¿] of being at Syndey) is here. I
can find no intelligence of John McCallum.
There are Crows here the same as at home
amp; when I was out of town a little way,
there was a little beast among the grass
crying, the same as among the heather
at home. We got some potatoes for
dinner amp; loaf which were a great treat,
amp; some roasted Mutton, the equal of
whch I never saw for beauty.
I wrote to Robert by the Andromeda
to inform him of my arrival here.
Thursday 6th. This mornin the Andromeda
Sailed for Sydney, amp; by her Mr.
Scott went. The weather here is very
cold amp; showery; some of the hills along
with Mount (Nelson) Wellington are covered with
snows. [¿] the Soldier called for his letter,
he told me he has been upwards of 18 years with the Regt.
Friday 7th. Capt. Crear amp; Mr. Dudgeon went away in
the morning to Launceston, to see Mr. [¿] grant
of Land, which will detail them 10 or 14 days.
There are upwards of 90 men of the 40th. out after the
Bush Rangers.
Saturday 8th. Went up to the Barracks to see the
Soldier of the 40th. who was washing a couple pairs of
trousers for me; I saw [¿] who took me to
see the Barracks, amp; on going into the Sergeant's
house, I was astonished to see the cleanness amp;
neatness of the house. There was a fine stout
boy sitting at the fires side, amp; was told that he
was a twin; I gave him 2/6 for my Father's
sake recollecting that my Father was a twin.
Sunday 9th. Octor. I went to the Scotch Kirk in the
forenoon, and there was no Sermon in the afternoon
till 1/2 past 6, when I intended to have gave to
the Church, but I could not get on shore.
Monday 10th. Went on shore and after walking about
the town took a short ride on Mr. Walkinshaw's
horse. The price of washing my trousers was
very moderate being only one shilling for a
couple pairs of tousers. The Ladies amp; Gentlemen
dress very extravagantly here; they have very handsome
dresses.
Tuesday 11th. This morning one of Major McLeod's
Sons who stays on shore came on board amp; told me
there was a man on the Wharf of the name of
McDonald who wished to see me, and on going
up to the Wharf, I met James McDonald riding
on a Grey horse, he immediately dismounted
but I would not have known him, had not
Mr. McLachlan who was coming past while I
was speaking with McDonald, came up amp; spoke
also, they recollect each other perfectly. McDonald
has the charge of the Government horses amp; has
some stock.
Wednesday 12th. This morning there has been a great
deal of rain. The weather here is very changeable
cold amp; chilly in the evenings generally. The weather
here resembles very much the Greenock weather.
Provisions here are very high, indeed nothing
is to be had cheap. Every Sunday morning
after getting to sea, all the passengers amp; seamen
were assembled on the Quarter deck in the warm
weather amp; in the cabin in the cold weather
when Capt. [¿] is a most beautiful Navigator,
he takes his observations so correctly, amp; does
his duty on board of ship with such knowledge,
that he is indeed quite master of his profession.
Thursday 13th. This day ahs been very wet and cold
completely Greenock weather. This morning after
coming on shore was standing taking shelter in the
[porties] of a house in Town when J. McDonald
came past riding amp; pointed out Haggart the
[¿], who struck John [¿] on the eye,
but I did not recollect him. The sheets here
are very dirty, not one of them are causewayed but
full of holes which might very easily be filled
up by the Prisoners of whom there are no scarcity
in this place. There is not so much as a pavement
nor even a furrow to carry off the water but the streets from side to side
are filled with muddy [dubs] amp; holes, there is no
either on the streets amp; today the streets are almost impoſsible.
When the prisoners misbehave there is very little
time lost in punishing them. Yesterday one of the
Constables who had been out after the Bush rangers
had got tipsy amp; came down the Wharf with his Musket,
where he began to kick up a rowe, amp; presented, amp; snapped
his Musket at the Master of a Brig; Whereupon being
apprehended amp; taken up the wharf was met by Mr. Hobbs
the Wharfinger (who enquired what was the matter)
to whom he also prsented his musket, And has already
been sentenced to fifty lashes amp; transportation
for three years to McQuarrie Harbour.
Friday 14th. The weather now is getting very pleasant.
The evenings are cool amp; chilly.
There is a great deal of party spirit, existing in this
small town. In the two newspapers which are
published here, they are always making a cut at
each other, [¿] or another, and if any person
seems to differ, from the rest of the Community, he
is sure to leave himself "keelhauled" in the Newspaper.
Hobart Town is something like Port Glasgow,, where
every thing is through the Town in a "Pigs Whisper".
Mr. McLachlan, tother day, walked up the Wharf
with Miss Hawie the Governess of Major McLeod
and in a short time afterwards, he was told
that he was seen walking with a Lady.
Saturday 15th, Mr. [¿] and Mr. Dudgeon returned
from Launceston in the afternoon and were
highly delighted with the Country. Some
days ago when I was speaking with Mr. Walkinshaw,
a man came up with a black Swan, which
he waished to sell; it was jet black with a
little white at the tip of the wing. J. McDougall
from Glasgow goes about here with the same
air of impudence as he had done nothing wrong
and his daughters and wife go dressed in the
first rate style, with peach blossom gowns
Leghorn heels trimmed with white ribbons
amp; white or black (or white) veils.
Sunday 16th. Octor. I went to the Church in the
forenoon, went on board to dinner, and returned
to the Church in the evening at 6 oClock, as there
was no Sermon in the afternoon.
Monday 17th. While I was standing on the Wharf
a letter was delivered to me from Neil Millar Douglas
Son of the late Reverend Mr. Neil Douglas enquiring
if I had brought any letters, amp; requesting an answer
which I accordingly made.
Tuesday 18th. Last night the Bush rangers were
within ten miles of Hobart Town, where they
had made themselves easy in a house during
the day, besides committing a highway robbery.
All the free inhabitants of the Town have been
enlisted as volunteers to mount guard upon
the different places of public buildings, in order
that all the Soldiers may be in the bush in
pursuit of the Bush rangers; and there are only
a few Soldiers to mount Guard on the Bridewell
amp; fort. Today where I was walking up the wharf
with Mr. McLachlan, we met young Mr. Walkinshaw
with his Musket, about to take shipping for
Bassis Straits where a number of the volunteers
are ordered to loo for the Bush rangers. When
the Prisoners of the Jail knew of the Soldiers having
left Town they made an attempt to escape, but
were prevented on the alarm being made, when
several of the bricks were found extracted from
the Wall.
Wednesday 19th. The weather now is getting very warm during
the forenoon, but the climate here is very changeable.
Thursday 20th. The Medina which came out with prisoners
Sailed for India and with her Capt. cotton of the
Buffs went to join Lord [¿], who is the
relation of Capt. Cotton.
Friday 21st. This morning we weighed anchor amp; set sailed
for Sydney. The weather was very wet before
breakfast, but afterwards became fair amp; very
hot. We have a prisoner on board for Sydney,
for Boat stealing. The wind down the [¿]
was very light till tea time, when we had
a pretty smart wind. We left the River about
dark; amp; running along the coast experienced a
very heavy squall of the Land. One afternoon before
we left Hobart Town, a mouse was caught on
board almost entirely white, with the head of
a greyish colour, amp; a greyish spot above the
tail, all the rest was white.
Saturday 22d. The wind during the day was light
amp; we made little progress.The land was in sight
all day. About dinner time the wind became
contrary amp; began to blow strong. Our Cabin party
is small now; Mr. [¿] family, myself, Mr. Little
amp; Mr. Fisher, are the only Cabin passengers.
Sunday 23d. Octor. Soon after breakfast we were all
assembled in the Cabin, where Capt. [¿] read
the Morning Service of the Church of England and
read a Sermon. In the evening the boys were all
brought into the Cabin amp; Capt. Crear read a Sermon
to us all along with the boys.
I was very sick on account of the ship labouring
much in a broken sea, but I did not vomit.
But I sat at Table during dinner and eat very little.
During the time the wine was on the Table the wind
became light, the sea became smooth, and I became
quite well; the Cook who was out last voyage
was also sick, amp; one of the men.
Monday 24th. The weather very pleasant amp; the wind
fair. At dinner time when the cheese was put upon
the table the Boatswain came down, amp; told us that
the Land was in sight on the [¿] Bows on the
[¿] side, the course was N. N. W. The Whales
are numerous on these seas, amp; we have seen great many today.
Tuesday 25th. The wind during the forenoon was
very light, with a strong current, both of which
prevented us from making any progress. The
Land which we are very near, presents an appearance
comparatively level. Soon after breakfast we saw
smoke on the Land, which extended some way
along the shore amp; were informed by the prisoner
on board that the natives on seeing the ship were
making the signal for us to land. Immediately
after dinner the wind came off the Land, amp; we are
now sailing at a smart rate 1/4 to 9 P.M.
Wednesday 26th. The wind contrary amp; blowing pretty
fresh all the morning, but it has now calmed very
much 1 oClock P.M. yesterday, the weather being
fine we put up the Royal Masts.
Mr. [¿] has a Piano on board, which has just been
played amp; resembles very much in tune the Piano at
Hillend.
Thursday 27th. This morning it blew a gale off the
Land, which is in sight; but yesterday we could
not see it (except from the Mast head,) being driven
out to sea during the preceding night, with contrary
wind. On the Coast there is a conical hill, called
the Pigeon house which resembles very much
North Berwick Law. We have been beating
about all day endeavouring to get close in shore, amp; we
are now on a tack bearing upon Mount Dromedary
(1/4 to 8 P.M.) amp; intend putting about on another tack to keep
in shore, as it just now blows hard off the Land.
Friday 28th. Sweet on deck in the morning
about 7 oClock amp; we were then close to [¿]
past a very high rocky Land, where a
number of the Natives had kindled fires;
amp; on reaching the point of the rock on land
were saluted by the natives who set up
the most hideous yells on perceiving the
ship. We saw them with the Glass standing
on the point of the rock. About tea time
we were close by under the Light house on
the heads, where we were boarded by the
Pilot who took us up till within a
short way of the Cove, [¿] we were
obliged to Anchor on account of a heavy
tide against us amp; as wind. The Pilot
sent up word to town by the [¿]
boat to Robert that the Triton had arrived
He immediately came down with his
Servant amp; roused me from bed, where
I had not properly fallen asleep; it
was then about mid night, amp; I put
on my clothes amp; went up to town.
We leveled at the Dock yard amp; walked up
to the house at Cockle Bay.
Cite this Document
APA Style:
Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia. 2024. In The Corpus of Modern Scottish Writing. Glasgow: University of Glasgow. Retrieved 24 November 2024, from http://www.scottishcorpus.ac.uk/cmsw/document/?documentid=274.
MLA Style:
"Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia." The Corpus of Modern Scottish Writing. Glasgow: University of Glasgow, 2024. Web. 24 November 2024. http://www.scottishcorpus.ac.uk/cmsw/document/?documentid=274.
Chicago Style
The Corpus of Modern Scottish Writing, s.v., "Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia," accessed 24 November 2024, http://www.scottishcorpus.ac.uk/cmsw/document/?documentid=274.
If your style guide prefers a single bibliography entry for this resource, we recommend:
The Corpus of Modern Scottish Writing. 2024. Glasgow: University of Glasgow. http://www.scottishcorpus.ac.uk/cmsw/.
Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia
Document Information
| Document ID | 274 |
| Title | Thomas Crawford's Journey to Australia |
| Year group | 1800-1850 |
| Genre | Expository prose |
| Year of publication | 1825 |
| Place of publication | Between Edinburgh and Sydney |
| Wordcount | 10004 |
Author information: Crawford, Thomas
| Author ID | 259 |
| Forenames | Thomas |
| Surname | Crawford |
| Gender | Male |
| Year of birth | 1802 |
| Place of birth | Greenock, Scotland |
| Mother's place of birth | Irvine, Scotland |
| Father's place of birth | Greenock, Scotland |
| Occupation | Landowner |
| Locations where resident | Greenock, Australia |
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