Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Henry Colden Antill - journals, 1809, 1815; written in 1849
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Biographical note about H.C. Antill.

Henry Gordon Antill son of Major [indecipherable] May 1, 1779. Entered the army as Ensign in H.M. 73rd Highland Regt. August 15, 1796 (aged 17) Served in India in the War against Jippor Sahib and carried the Colors of his Regt. at the Siege storming of Seringapatam where he was severely wounded. Promoted Captain January 11 1809. Came to N.S Wales with his Regt. & Governor Macquarie his Colonel when he arrived in December 19 1809. Was appointed Aide deCamp to General Macquarie on his arrival in the Colony which position he retained till about the year 1817 1815 when he was appointed Major of Brigade. He held that appointment till about the year 1825 when he retired from the army and went to reside on his Military Grant at Jarvisfield, Picton (called after Governor Macquaries Estate in Scotland) where he died on August 14, 1852 Aged 73

Major John Antilll and his brothers Dr Lewis Antill and Colonel Edward Antill were both in the Army. The former in the Imperial Service the latter also a Major Colonel in the American Army and fought on opposite sides, as was the case with very many families in the War of Independence. Their Father Hon Edward Antill was also an Officer in the Imperial Service. Was a Member of the Council and a judge before the war of Independence and married the daughter of Govr. Morris of New Jersey Major John Antill married first the eldest and afterwards the youngest daughters of Govr. Golden of New York.

The Hon Edward Antill was the son of Edward Antill born March 20th 1659 at Richmond, Surrey, England. He the latter was an Attorney at Law and afterwards a merchant of New York. He was commissioned by the British Government to investigate into certain discrepancies in the Customs. He was the son of John Antill & and grandson of Thomas The original name was Aukebel, Auchebel, Auclyl, or Ampthill. The Booleen Museum contain a considerable number of records, relative to John Antill and Doomsday Book, deals with and records the particulars of the family
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Undated newscutting, after 1932, concerning 'Major Antill's pine' in the Royal Botanic Gardens written by J.M. Antill. [End of page]

On board His Majesty's ship "Dromedary" at sea—latitude 39'21 South ; longitude 63'24 East. November 7th, 1809.
These sheets I dedicate to two of my sincerest friends I have in the world; to my sister, and my dear Hilary, nor can I begin them on a better day than this day, being the united birthday of both: and though tossed as I am at the present moment on the wide troubled ocean, I will endeavour as far as my memory will assist me to collect and record the events that have happened to me since the beginning of the present year, and during our long voyage thus far, and I hope to be able from time to time to carry them on till I have the pleasure of seeing you both again; in the meantime take the wish of
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my heart, sincerely do I hope you both may enjoy many and happy returns of this day, may the Kind Providence who ruleth over all His works, guard and keep you in virtue, health and happiness.
You know, my dear Eliza, I have long promised to keep a journal for your amusement, but until now have neglected to do so, since I am therefore likely to be deprived of the happiness of seeing you for some years to come, I will now endeavour to fulfil this promise, and should these sheets afford an hour's amusement to my friends, the end I have in view will be fully answered, and will recompense me for any little trouble I shall have been at in writing them.
In the peaceful retirement of the City of Glasgow in Scotland where I had been stationed for some time on the recruiting
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happiness of a long leave of absence in the spring that was commencing, for the purpose of crossing the Atlantic to pay my long wished for visit to those relatives so dear to my heart, but as I had made the resolution of murmuring as little as possible at the events of this life, convinced with Pope that " Whatever is, is right," I went to work with all haste to prepare to obey the order I had received, and on the 3rd of January, 1809 having paid what small debts I was due, and taking leave of my friends, I sent my trunks by the carrier's waggon, and took a seat in the coach for Edinburgh, to which place I had previously sent my party, and where I arrived the same evening, a distance of forty-two miles. I found the regiment had arrived two days before me, and were in barracks in the Castle till the small vessels that
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were to carry us to England could be got ready for our reception.
I shall not dwell on the regret I felt at leaving Glasgow. It is needless to describe to you the pangs of parting with friends we love and esteem; mine were sufficiently acute to draw a tear even from the eye of a soldier: you may both smile at the idea but let me ask you why a soldier should be denied the luxury of a tear; is his heart to be harder than another because his way of life are so? I trust neither of you are of this way of thinking, for, after the kind attention I have received from those friends, it must have been a hard heart indeed that could have parted from them with indifference.
As I stated before, on my arrival at Edinburgh I found the regiment expecting to embark every hour
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on board four Berwick smacks, which had been provided for us, and was informed that our destination was the distant Colony of New South Wales, that upon arrival in England two large ships of war would be in readiness to receive us, and that we should sail as soon as arrangements could be made for that purpose.
You may naturally suppose, my dear friends, that my reflections were not the most agreeable at the prospect of so distant a voyage of upwards of sixteen thousand miles to a place so little known; my regrets were, I think, in some degree natural, but as I was determined to dwell upon the subject as little as possible, I was resolved to be thankful it was no worse, and to look forward with
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hope to a future day however distant, when I might return to my Native Country, where retired from all my toils and troubles I might " weep o'er my wounds and deeds of valour done," and with a small competency enjoy for the remainder of my days the society of those friends I have been -o long separated from—this hope, my dear Eliza has taken full possession of my mind, and by the blessing of God I trust I may see it realised. But to proceed, after remaining for a week or two at Edinburgh Castle, we embarked at Leith, and after a tedious and stormy passage of upwards of a month arrived safe at Portsmouth.
At the season of the year we embarked from Scotland, the passage is very dangerous, and tho' our ships were
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very excellent ones, we were twice very nearly lost, the wind blowing mostly from the S.W. in strong gales with very cold weather, we changed our ships at Gravesend, and were removed to two transports, which, though larger vessels, were not such good sea boats as those we had quitted.
On our arrival at Gravesend we learnt with much satisfaction that the Government had thought proper to give us a Second Battalion which promoted me and two other brother subs to Companies, so the old proverb was verified in this instance " that evil seldom happens without some' good attending it," to add to my good fortune on my arrival at Portsmouth I received a letter from my commanding office
Colonel Macquarie stating that
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the Governor appointed to New South Wales had applied to very him to recommend an officer to be his Aide-De-Camp from any of those of the Regiment he thought capable of filling the situation, and that in consequence of this application he had mentioned me as one he thought would answer, that if I had no objection to the situation, I had his permission to come up to Town to pay my respects, and return thanks to General Nightingall for the honour he had done me.
In this instance I had once more to admire the good fortune, or more properly speaking the Kindness of Providence that had attended me through life; I was here without any merit of my own, taken by the hand and promoted
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to a situation every way to my wish, how thankful ought I to be, and indeed I am to those friends who had been so kind and attentive to my interests. I immediately wrote a suitable reply to the letter I had received, and prepared to proceed to London as soon as the regiment should be landed, which they were in a few days afterwards in the Isle of Wight, and arrived without any accident worth mentioning by nine o'clock the next morning in London.
In the course of the day I called upon Colonel Macquarie and was by him taken and introduced to General Nightingall, who received me with much politeness, and - was told by him that as
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his appointment to the Government of New South AVales had not yet taken place, mine of course would not either. I was however permitted at my own request to remain in town by leave from the Commander-in-Chief and I immediately took lodgings in Suffolk-street, Charing Cross.
From this time till the latter end of March I remained in town occasionally visiting my friends at Black Heath, where I always met with the kindest reception; of this my dear Mary you need not be told, as you so largely contributed to the happiness I there enjoyed, and I hope you and your amiable family will not refuse in this place the tribute of a grateful heart.
These visits I generally made
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on foot walking down to the Heath on the Sunday morning to breakfast, and returning to town on the Monday to attend to any little business the General might have for me to do. I made it my duty to call upon him every morning but except a few trifling commissions he gave me to execute I had nothing to do, as he had not yet received any further intimation from the Government respecting his appointment; this delay appeared strange as the ships had been reported some time back ready to receive the troops, but I afterwards understood that this delay was occasioned by the desire Government had of receiving accounts from the Colony which they were in daily expectation would arrive. During the interval General
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Nightingall was attacked with so violent a Rheumatism that when the expected accounts did arrive and we were ordered to embark and proceed with all expedition, he found himself under the necessity of applying for a short delay, which as it could not be granted, he was obliged from the ill state of his health to decline the situation altogether as no person was immediately nominated to succeed him, I had every reason to suppose there was an end to all my bright iprospects and that I should be obliged to put up with my loss I had incurred in making up staff uniform. I therefore with a heavy heart took leave of the General and the rest of my friends in Town and took my departure to join the Regiment but before I left London
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I was desired by the friend who had recommended me not to despair and was led to hope from these words that I might expect to regain the situation I had lost under General Nightingall under the person who should succeed him, little did I think that he would be that person himself. I of course the moment this was made known to him which was after I had returned to the Isle of Wight received notice of it with the fulfillment of the promise he had made but that it could not take place till our arrival at our destination, with this you may be sure I was well content, and again returned to town to make a few arrangements, where I remained a few days and then joined my regiment once more.
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In this place, my dear Mary, I think it necessary to give you my reasons for taking leave of you and my friends at the Heath as I did by letter instead of personally.
Just before I left London, I received a letter from my dear aunt and though I be ever thankful to her for her kind approbation of my conduct yet I thought from some part of the contents it was her wish I should take my leave in the manner I did, perhaps it was better I did so, and I hope you have long ago forgiven me any seeming neglect. I generally find I can make mes adieux better on paper than by word of month; on these occasions I have seldom a word to say for myself.
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It was a considerable time after I returned to the Isle of Wight before the Regiment embarked, there were so many things required for so long a voyage that a long time was required to supply them; during the stay of the regiment at Colville they were so scattered about and uncomfortably accommodated that I was glad for many reasons when I saw the two ships arrive in which we were to embark on the 5th of April off Yarmouth, and orders issued to prepare to go on board.
On Sunday May 7th, the Eegiment being assembled on the Parade at Colville Barracks marched down to Yarmouth, where 15 officers, 451 rank and file, 90 women and 87 children embarked
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on board H.M. ship Dromedary, Mr. John Pritchard master; and 10 officers, 406 rank and file, and 97 women and children on board H.M. ship Hindostan, Captain John Pasco—both large roomy ships—the two following days were employed in receiving the baggage belonging to the officers and men, which done we weighed and made sail for Spithead but had hardly got half way before we struck on a place, Old Castle Point, but fortunately soon got off again without receiving any damage, and came to anchor in the evening; the next day weighed and anchored at Spithead in 16 fathom water about 4 miles from Portsmouth; we remained there till the 19th, when we again moved our station down to St. Helen's and receiving here Colonel
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Macquarie the Governor, his Lady, Mr. and Mrs. Bent, the Judge Advocate, with their servants and baggage, and in company with two transports bound for the Cape of Good Hope took our departure from Old England, perhaps to be absent from it for some years.
During our stay at St. Helen's we found from the number of men women and children on board that we were too much crowded. Application was in consequence made, and 31 men were sent on board the Hindosian, and two officers, 50 privates, and 41 women and children were sent on shore at "Portsmouth to follow in the first Convict ship; we likewise took down all the standing berths which had been fitted up for the troops and issued out hammocks as being both better calculated to keep the ship sweet and
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clean, and affording considerably more room. Every day during the voyage before 8 o'clock in the morning every man's hammock was brought upon deck and stowed away in the netting, the decks were washed and scraped and no person permitted to remain below when the weather would allow their remaining upon deck, we regulated the men likewise into three watches commanded by an officer who took his rotation of duty on deck with the watch he belonged to.
Wednesday, 24th May.—Light breezes and pleasant weather; the Htrt Point about four leagues, exchanged numbers with H.M. Ship Amethyst, and likewise with II.M. Ship Swallow.
Thursday, 25th.—Exchanged numbers with H.M. Ship HRio. Lat. 48° 32' K, long. 8° W.
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Friday, May 26th.—At 4 o'clock p.m. two strange sail in sight, bore up towards them, signal from Commodore to prepare for battle, shortly after another strange sail in sight, as they continued their course without taking any notice of us, we did the same; we thought we observed a signal from one but was at too great a distance to make out what it was. Lat. 48° 6' N., long. 9° 47' W.
Saturday, 27th.—The wife of William Monogan was delivered of a son; punished six privates of the regiment for sleeping on watch; particular orders had been given to prevent this dangerous practice and it was necessary to make an example at the
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beginning of the voyage to prevent a repetition of it in future; a strange sail in sight; signal from the Commodore for us to give chase and examine her. As we had much the advantage of her in sailing, soon gained on her and fired three guns to bring her to—hoisted French colours and fired four more guns shotted; at 5 p.m. being come up with the chase, shortened sail, hauled down French and Hoisted English colours when Chase struck hers, French over Swedish, lowered 1he boat and sent 2 midshipmen and 10 privates on board; she proved to be the Gustavus, from Charlestown, bound for Liverpool, J. Bartlett, master, captured by a French privateer five days before. Sent prisoners on board the Commodore.
Thursday, May 30th.—Chased a strange
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sail, fired 3 guns to bring her to; at 6 o'clock p.m. came up with and boarded the chase; she proved to be the Prozzle, schooner, fiom Guernsey, bound to Malta, laden with sugar At 3 o'clock this day parted with the prize taken yesterday, sent her to England in charge of an officer from the Hindostan, wrote letters by her to my friends to tell them we had got thus far in safety.
Thursday, June 1st.—Strong gales with rain, chased and brought to an American, the sea too high to board her. She said she was from Madeira, bound to Gottenburg.
Saturday, June 3rd.—Exchanged nos. with H.M. Ship Ocean. Strong gales and a very heavy swell which is generally the case in crossing the Bay of Biscay.
Sunday, June 4th.—Commemorated
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the Birth day of our Gracious Sovereign. Fresh breezes and cloudy with a heavy sea. Exchanged numbers with H.M. Ship Magician, the sea running very high and blowing very hard; in her endeavouring to communicate with the Commodore her boat was upset and the Boatswain and one man lost. A man of the Hindostan behaved in the most gallant manner; on seeing the accident he jumped overboard, and through his exertions saved two men; he was rewarded by a subscription raised on. board the Hindostan. Departed this life, Mr. Donald, seaman. Lying to under the Mizen and storm staysail. Lat. 42° 38' ~N., long. 11° 14' W.
June 5th.—Gale still continues; lying to as before, strange sail in sight, fired a gun to bring her to, proved to be a sloop
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from Gibraltar. Lat. 42° 38' N., long. 10° 51' W.
Thursday, June 8th.—Showed our number to a cutter. Chased a strange sail, came up and boarded an American from Teneriffe bound to Cannes. Lat. 38° 25' K, long. 11° 36' W.
Sunday, llth.—Twenty minutes after 10 a.m. saw the land of Porto-Santo.
Monday, 12th at 5 o'clock a.m. came to anchor with the small bower in Funchall Roads, Island of Madeira, in 45 fathoms water. In the evening arrived H.M. Ship Magician. On making the land the morning before, we mistook the Island of Disertis for that of Madeira, in consequence of which we got so much to leeward before we found out our mistake that we were obliged to beat up all night.
The town of Funchall, in the island of Madeira, is in lat. 32° 37', long.
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17° 5', and has a most beautiful and romantic appearance from the Eoads, being situated at the bottom of the Bay; the ground rises behind at first with a gradual and afterwards with a very steep ascent in the form of an amphitheatre, and is covered with vineyards, villas and convents. The town loses much of its beauty in a nearer approach, the streets being narrow and dirty.
This being too early in the season for fruit, very little was to be had; this was a great disappointment to those who expected to feast on the grapes for which the Island is so famous; the cultivation of the vine depends much upon the soil exposure and supply of water; one or more walks a yard or two wide intersect each vineyard and these are enclosed by a stone wall two feet
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high along the walks which are arched over with laths about seven feet high, they erect wooden pillars to support the lattice work of bamboos which slope down on each side; the vines are in this, manner supported from the ground, and the people have room to weed underneath and likewise to cut the grapes. The gardens produce peaches, apricots, quinces, apples, pears, etc., etc., together with some tropical fruits such as bannanas, guavas and pineapples.
All the common domestic animals of Europe are to be found in Madeira and their mutton and beef though small is very well tasted. Report says there are no snakes on the island, and that if brought to it they immediately die. Our stay here was too short to make many observations for after watering
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and procuring what little refreshments could be had, we sailed on the evening of the 19th June, but made little progress through the night, as the island could be plainly seen the next morning from the cabin windows.
Tuesday, June 20th.—Strange sail in sight, sent in chase proved to be a Portuguese from Oporto bound to Brazil. Moderate breezes and cloudy. Lat. 31° 46' N., long. 17° 20' W.
Wednesday, 21st.—Palma, one of the Canary Islands, in sight this morning at daybreak. Passed it about 10 o'clock distant 15 or 20 miles. Robert Watt, a man of my company, departed this life during the night; this poor fellow was perfectly well a few days before and died of a fever. Strange sail in sight, sent in chase she proved to be a Spanish brig from Malaga bound to Vera Cruz.
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Sunday, June 25th.—Fresh breezes and cloudy. Performed Divine service for the first time. The service read by Mr. Bent, the Judge Advocate. Passed the Tropic of Cancer, in longitude 20° 1' W., with a lino steady . trade wind, going at the rate of seven knots under 2, and sometimes 3 topsails, our usual number, and obliged to keep under this easy sail to avoid going ahead of the Commodore, who, with one and twenty and sometimes four and twenty sails, could scarcely keep pace with us. Lat. 20° 58' K
Wednesday, June 28th.—Light breezes and cloudy. Saw the island of Sail at daylight on our larboard quarter, distance 5 or 6 leagues, and at 11 the island of Bouavista bearing S.S.W.
Thursday. 29th.—At 8 o'clock a.m. saw
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the Island of Mazo and at 2 p.m. came to anchor in Port Prays Roards, Island of St. Jago, with the small bower, in a quarter less 7 fathoms, about a mile from the shore.
This part of the island has a most barren appearance, tho' I was told the interior is fertile; the Capital is about 12 miles inland, and is called St. Jago, but the port where the shipping anchor is called Port Praya and is a most wretched place. The Town, if it can be called such, consists of one wide street, with a row of miserable huts on each side, situated on the brow of a steep bank leading down to the sea. The appearance of the inhabitants corresponds with the Town, and partakes of the battered condition of their habitation; they are so badly off for all kinds of clothing than you can
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have here an excellent market for all your old cast-off clothes, preferring this kind of barter to money. For an old coat, hat, or sword you can procure fruit, vegetables, and poultry. The military appear in little better condition thau the Town or inhabitants they have to defend, and have to perform the duty with muskets, some without barrels and others without locks; with old cocked hats and tattered regimentals make a most ludicrous turn out. We only remained here 24 hours, and of course could procure but little refreshments in that time, and were not sorry to leave a place that had nothing striking or interesting about it.
Friday, 30th.—In the evening weighed and stood out of the harbour.
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Sunday, July 2nd.—Performed Divine Service this day and every other Sunday when the weather was fine.
Monday, 3rd.—Calm weather and cloudy. Departed this life, Mrs. Ann Murray and a child of Evan Davis's.
Tuesday, 4th.—Light airs and squally, with thunder, lightning- and rain.
Wednesday, 5th.—Strange sail in sight to windward, gave chase and fired two guns to bring her to, she appeared suspicious at first in not hoisting her colours, stood to our quarters, on coming up with her she proved to be an American from Philadelphia bound to Canton.
Wednesday, 26th.—The wife of Thomas Miller delivered of a daughter. Signal from
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the Commodore for seeing land—the Island of St. Paul's, not seen by us, suspected he must have seen Cape Flyaway, as we were distant from it more than 100 miles.
Saturday, 20th at 1 o'clock crossed the Equator in longitude 34° 7' with a fine steady breeze. Captain and Mrs. Pasco, of the Hindostan, Captain and Mrs. Murray, and Captain Glenholme dined on board yesterday.
Tuesday, August 1st fell in with and gave chase to a small Portuguese sloop from Buenos Ayres bound to San Salvadore.
Thursday, 3rd chased another strange sail, she proved to be a Portuguese brig from the coast of Guinea bound to Bio de Janeiro with 436 female slaves on
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board. These poor wretches we were told were confined in the hole of this small ship and were dying by dozens, and the monster who commanded frequently threw them overboard the moment they were taken ill, that the infection might not spread to the rest; this I should hope for the sake of human nature was not true.
Friday, 4th.—Moderate breezes and clear weather; drawing towards the American coast. Sounded but found no bottom with a line of 75 fathoms. Lat. 22° 31', long. 30° 53' W. Thermometer, 75°.
Saturday, 5th.—Light airs and cloudy. Sounded in 95 fathoms, sandy bottom. At 5 p.m. saw the land bearing W.N.W., and on the 7th came to anchor in the Harbour
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of Rio de Janeiro in 20 fathoms of water about 2 miles from the town.
Rio de Janeiro, a Portuguese settlement in South America, lies in south latitude 23° 31' west, longitude 43° 51'. St. Sebastian is* now the Capital of their settlements in this part of the world and the residence of the Prince Eegent of Portugal. The Bay of Rio is very extensive and secure, the entrance is between two forts about J mile across, on passing which the harbour opens to more than 4 miles, and extends upwards of thirty, and is large enough to contain the whole Navy of Britain, and perhaps of the world. It is interspersed into Islands and surrounded with lofty mountains, which
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give it a most romantic appearance. At the foot of one of these, on the left after you enter, is the Town of St. Sebastian; it has a very good landing-place built of stone and one also for wate-ring and shipping; abundance of fruit and other vegetables are to be had here, especially oranges, which abound in such plenty that they can be purchased for little or nothing and afford a most grateful refreshment to the ships; the beef is poor and not very good, but there is plenty of most excellent fish. The Town is large and pleasantly situated, but like all other Portuguese settlements, the streets are narrow and dirty. The palace of the Prince Regent is near
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the Landing Place and forms three sides of a square, but has nothing in its external appearance to deserve notice.
On Sunday the 20th the Jollyboat of the Dromedary was missing in the morning at daybreak, having been taken by two men of the 73rd Regiment, who had taken the opportunity of deserting. In the evening the boat was brought back by some Portuguese, who reported they had found her on the beach some way up the harbour but had seen nothing of the soldiers.
Wednesday, 23rd.—Early in the morning weighed and stood out of the harbour after remaining here
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sixteen days; sent Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Macquarie's maid, on shore at her own request. We had a fine breeze which carried us out of sight of land before next morning, course 8. by E.
Sunday, 27th.—This day was married Mrs. Watts, widow of the late Robert Watts, Private in the 73rd Regiment, to one of the sailors of the ship. This woman's husband had not been dead more than two months. We experienced a severe gale of wind that lasted the whole of this day and part of the day following.
Friday, Sept. 1st.—At 2 p.m., hove to having lost Chas. Tompkins overboard, lowered the boat but without any success, as nothing could be seen of him.
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The alarm was given that he was missing, as he had been sent over the ship's side not half an hour before to calk in one of the scuttles; he refused to be secured by a rope and it was supposed he had dropped from the ship's side; the ship was going nine knots through the water at the time. This is a melancholy instance of the uncertainty of life and a warning to us how necessary it is to be prepared to meet that death which in a moment like the present instance may overtake us. This poor fellow went merrily over the ship's side not a quarter of an hour before and little thought of the awful summons that awaited him—he was, I believe, a
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quiet well-behaved man.
Sept. 9th.—Steady breeze, the wind nearly aft; running down 3 degrees of longitude a day; very cold, sometimes rainy.
Sept. 13th.—Wind shifted to the Eastward against us, much hard motion in consequence. Latitude 35° 52' S., long. 2° 43' E. Thermometer, 51°.
Sept. 18th.—Sent a boat on board the Hindostan. All well on board.
Sept. 19th.—Wind ahead, very great swell and much motion in consequence. Within 10 miles of the Latitude of the Cape, steering N.E. by E. Made a small stand for my writing desk and fitted it up near one of the cabin windows. Found it answer very well.

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At daylight on the morning of the 23rd of September came in sight of the Cape of Good Hope, the land distant about 30 miles and came to anchor at noon with the small Bower in Table Bay in 7 fathoms water about 2 miles from the town. Found H.M. ship Cliarwell, a small Ship with the Admiral's flag on board, here; moored ship.
Table Bay is situated in latitude 34° 29' south, longitude 18° 27' east. The Town is handsome, regular and well built and kept remarkably clean, the streets wide and airy; it is built at the foot of Table Mountain, with the Devil's Mountain on the right, and the Lion's Head and Rump on the left; the bay,
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though spacious, is not safe at all times, one half of the year blowing with violence from the N.W. into the bay and the other half from the S.E. out of it. The latter is, of course, the safest, as a ship can always cut and run out to sea with it. With the other, should a ship drag her anchor she must go on shore; ships therefore at the commencement of that season generally go round to Simon's Bay, about 60 miles to the Northward, where they can ride in safety. Between the Town and the Table Mountain are scattered over the plain a number of neat houses surrounded by plantations and gardens, fruit of all kinds is extremely scarce and the article of fuel still more so, a single

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Cart load of it will sometimes sell for seven dollars,—in most families slaves are kept for the purpose of collecting firewood; they ascend the Table Mountain in the morning and return in the evening with two small bundles of faggots, the produce of six or eight hours, swinging at the end of a bamboo carried across the shoulders. The Mountain is directly behind the town, is a horizontal line of about 2 miles in length, and is reckoned to be 3,502 feet above the sea.
Monday, Sept. 25th.—Fresh breezes and cloudy, with a heavy swell into the Bay; on shore, not able to get off to the ship; dined on shore with Genl. Wetherall, a very pleasant and agreeable
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family. The Vice-Admiral hoisted his flag (blue) on board II.M. ship Hindostan, as the Cliarwell was to sail the next day with provisions for the Squadron off the Isle of France.
Wednesday, October 4th.—Fresh gales and cloudy, with squalls and showers of rain; hoisted in the launch, being stove alongside during the night. Struck lower yards and lower topgallant Masts on deck, braced the yards to the wind and made all snug; blowing very fresh.
Thursday, 5th.—Received 115 live sheep on board for the troops and sailors, went on shore and took a walk with Mr. Shepperd the gunner, to the top
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of Table Mountain. We found it a most fatiguing undertaking being three hours ascending, the pathway up very steep and rugged. Overtook one of the slaves going for his daily allowance of firewood and he undertook to be our guide; this man was accustomed to mount the hill almost every day and from custom thought nothing of it, while we were toiling and labouring and obliged to stop every ten or dozen yards to rest. When we reached the summit we were fully compensated for our labour by a most delightful prospect of the Country and the Town lying our feet. We amused ourselves for a few hours, took a biscuit
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and a glass of grog and returned to the ship in the evening quite knocked up with our walk. We were the only two belonging to the ships that would venture the journey.
Friday. 13th.—Having completed our watering, etc., weighed and stood out of the bay, received here a Mr. John Thos. Campbell, whom the Governor had promised to do something for in the country we were going to. He had the appearance of being a gentlemanly well-informed man— we remained here twenty-two days.
Sunday, 15th.—A strange sail in sight, sent in chase of her; she appeared to be a large ship; she hoisted all
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sail going before the wind; we kept in chase till after dark, and was nearly out of sight of the Hindostan, and evidently gained upon the stranger, but the Commodore burning a blue light, the Captain mistook it for a signal of recall, not being over anxious I believe to come to close quarters, we gave up the chase and shortened sail to wait for our consort, who gave our brave Commander a good rowing for mistaking a blue light, to show vis where he was, for a signal to give up the chase, when a couple of hours more would have made her our prize. At 10 o'clock the next morning, in consequence of sailing so much N.W., found ourselves in sight
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of Table Mountain, and not being able to double it, tacked and stood to the Southward, fine healthy weather
November 10th.—Calm; made little or no way.
November llth.—Fine steady breeze and clear weather. From this dale to the end of the month we had in general fine weather with a steady breeze, with occasional gales of wind. With a moderate wind we could keep up with the Hindofttan with 3 sails only, she having generally 15 or more set; our carrying so little sail made vis labour much more than we otherwise would have done. The weather evidently getting warmer as wo approached the Coast of New
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South Wales. Frequently sounded, found no bottom with a great extent of line.
December 9th.—Light airs. Sent ahead this morning to look out for land. Governor King's Island at the mouth of Bass's Straits at 12 o'clock. Thick weather; could get no observations. Lay to in the evening till the Hindostan came up, who spoke us in passing. Found that the current had carried us twenty miles more to the Eastward than the log gave us.
Sunday, Dec. 10th —Wind against us all day; both ships lay alongside each other; the Commodore sent his boat on board for spirits and other
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articles that we wanted.
Monday, llth.—Fine weather and clear, the wind blowing from the very point we wanted to steer.
Wednesday, 13th.—Thick misty weather all the morning—not able to see two lengths of the ship. Lost sight of the Commodore about 7 o'clock. Fired a gun to let him know where we were, supposed by the one returned in answer that he was about 2 miles off; at 11 fired another which not being answered fired another about half an hour after Commodore fired 4 guns and shortly after two more, a signal to bear away two points S.E. In the evening it cleared up on a sudden and the Commodore was seen
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upon our larboard bow about a mile to windward; made the signal to bear up a point more to the Eastward.
Thursday, 14th.—Fine clear weather with a steady breeze. About 8 o'clock sent ahead to look out for land; saw something like it about 2 p.m., but at too great a distance to be certain; a signal of recall was made by the Commodore, and we lay to till 6 for him. Some large whales seen about the ship yesterday and to-day. Our latitude was 39° 38' S., long. 80° 27' east. Thermometer was at 50°.
Friday, 15th.—A fine steady breeze and cloudy weather. Sent ahead at daylight to look out; at 7 hove to and sounded, no bottom with a line 160 fathoms.
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At 1/4 past 10 saw the land bearing nearly ahead, supposed to be the South Point of New Holland. Tt is impossible to describe the sensations this sight occasioned to all hands 011 board after a passage of seven months from England and nine weeks from the Cape, thus to have the hopes of a speedy termination to our long voyage in health and safety. I can venture to say that I believe there was not a sad countenance on board out of 600 souls, and I trust we all had thankful hearts. Hove to and sounded, found bottom at 77 fathoms, Coral and sand. The Commodore passed close alongside and congratulated us on the first sight of our destination.
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December 15th.—At 1/2 past four the Commodore hove to being some distance astern, and lowered two boats; in about three hours when he had come up with us, we learnt the melancholy circumstances of his having lost one of his best men overboard; the poor fellow had been sent up to the masthead to look out, where it is supposed he had fallen asleep, and as he fell from the top the ship must have gone over him, as he was never seen after; it is serious to think how frequent these accidents happen, and it is from their frequency I suppose that so little is thought of them. I know of nothing that
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could give a more serious cast to the mind of a thinking being than to see a poor fellow-creature one moment alive and well and the next launched in eternity with all his imperfections on his head. May I ever be reminded of these circumstances when about to commit a wrong action and reflect upon the consequences.
Friday, 16th at 10 o'clock came in sight of the South West point of Van Dieman's Land called de Witt's Island, the next land we passed was the Meco tone, then Pedro Blaiico, and the Eddystone, where we could see the sea break over them in a dreadful surf; the last laud in the evening was St. Adment's
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head, the south-easternmost part of Van Dieman's Land, and we sailed past it with a fine breeze, and the evening being clear could easily see the mainland behind. Sounded at 10 o'clock, 77 fathom Coral. Course E.N.E.; our latitude was 43° 27' S., longitude 148° 40' E. Thermometer 65°.
December 17th.—Rainy weather—the wind more ahead. Steering North not far from Cape Pillar, which was discovered when the weather cleared
up, about 5 miles astern. At 1/2 past 8 wore ship and stood off from the land S.E. Stood on till one a.m. this evening. A bird like a dove but larger flew aboard and a man
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attempting to lay hold of it, pulled out the whole of the feathers of the tail and it escaped. Signal to steer north; going before the wind with a fine breeze.
Wednesday, 20th.—7 o'clock, fresh breezes and cloudy; going about 7 knots under two topsails lowered down on the caps, the Commodore astern having carried away his topmast and studding-sail boom. Made sail again at 11 o'clock, fine clear weather the rest of the day. Had one good observation and found we had made ourselves 46 miles nearer Sydney than by the observation. Latitude 39° 32' S., longitude 152° 15' E. Thermometer 60°. Distance from Port Jackson 337 miles.

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Thursday, December 21st.—About 10 o'clock saw Cape Howe, N.W. distant about 25 or 30 miles. Displayed the Colours of the Kegiment on the poop, the band playing God Save the King. Fine clear weather and steady breezes.
Friday, 22nd.—Calm with clear weather. We evidently find it getting warmer as we approach the land and have regular land and sea breezes. Very busy in preparations for landing, issuing Arms, Accoutrements and Clothing. Got up the awning and sent a boat to the Hindostan with Clothing, etc. Land in sight all day; passed Cape Dromedary.
Saturday, 23rd.—About 10 o'clock
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the wind came ahead which obliged us to stand off and on all day and part of the night, when the wind changed again in our favour. Much vivid lightning in the evenings but attended with no thunder.
Sunday, 24th.—At 7 o'clock the weather pleasant and going before a fine breeze. In the early part of the morning the clouds looked heavy and threatened rain but it cleared up. At night observed a large fire on shore distant about 25 miles, the first sign of inhabitants we had seen since our arrival on the Coast. The breeze increased during- the day to fresh gale , going under topsails
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at 12 o'clock, 136 miles from Port Jackson.
Monday, 25th.—Fine steady breeze and clear weather, no land in sight. Paraded at 10 o'clock in Complete Marching order. Found the men in good order. This being Christmas Day served out an extra allowance of grog to the Soldiers and Ship's Company. The Ladies and Gentlemen of the Cuddy dined with us our fresh provisions being quite expended for some time past nothing to give them for dinner but salt beef and pork and part of an old goat which was killed for the occasion.
Tuesday, 26th.—At 8 o'clock in the morning close in with Botany Say,
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the wind against us. A fine bold shore with high tableland. Fine weather; stood close in to the shore and wore ship about 12 o'clock—stood off and on the rest of the day and towards night it grew perfectly calm and very hot and close thick weather.
Wednesday, 27th.—A fine fair wind which sprung up about one o'clock. Sailing some distance from the land about 3 knots an hour. Spoke the Commodore, and sent a boat on board. Mr, Worthington, the 3rd officer, sent before the mast for insolent and mutinous behaviour to his Commander, Mr. Cleaveland and Mr. Gray; the 1st and 2nd officers in arrest for the same crime.

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Thursday, 28th Dec.—The wind shifted yesterday evening to all points of the compass, blowing a hurricane, with very severe thunder and lightning and heavy rain. Stood off and on all night, sometimes very near the land. About 7 o'clock in the morning saw the flagstaff at the Head of Port Jackson: made signal for a pilot. Blowing a fresh gale and at 10 o'clock came to anchor within the Heads. The wind being against we could not work up the harbour.
Thus have I brought the Journal of our Voyage of seven months and six days from leaving the Land's End, and within a few days of a twelvemonth from leaving Scotland, to
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a conclusion. We remained at the Heads till the 30th, the wind being against. On the morning of the 30th it changed and we weighed and stood up the harbour, and soon after anchored in Sydney Cove. The Governor landed the next morning with all due ceremony, the Regiment being drawn up both on board and shore, and the Ship firing a salute. The next day the Regiment landed, and there not being room in Barrack for them they marched out to Grose Farm, about three miles from Town and encamped and remained there till the 102 Regiment embarked for England.
H.C.A.
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Journal of an excursion over the Blue or Western Mountains of New South Wales to visit a tract of new discovered country, in company with his Excellency Governor and Mrs. Macquarie, and a party of Gentlemen.
Tuesday, April 25, 1815.—This being the day fixed on by his Excellency the Governor for commencing his tour over the Blue Mountains to visit a new tract of country lately discovered, to the westward of them, left Sydney at half-past 6 o'clock in the morning, in company with Dr. Eedfern (one of the Governor's suite going with him), and arrived at Parramatta at half-past 8. The morning cool and pleasant prepared breakfast
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for the Governor and Mrs. Macquarie, who arrived in their travelling carriage about an hour after. Our baggage-carts, five in number, had been sent off from Sydney some days before, and had been directed to cross the Kivor Nepean and await our arrival at the 1st depot. After breakfasting and resting our horses, left Parramatta at 1 o'clock for Mrs. King's farm, on the South Creek, in company with Dr. Redfern, Mr. Watts, and Mr. Hassall. We followed the carriage, and arrived there a little after 3 o'clock, a distance of 10 miles, a good forest road the whole of the way. Pound the kind hospitality of Mr. Hassall had provided a good dinner for us, which was served up on our arrival. Mr. Cox, who was to be our guide in our journey, was waiting for us here, and
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we sat down to dinner with a good appetite. On our leaving Sydney in the morning, the signal had been made for a ship being in sight, and before we arose from table an Orderly Dragoon arrived with despatches from England brought by the Indefatigable, convict ship. At 9 o'clock retired to rest. There being more guests than a small farm-house could conveniently accommodate, beds could not be provided for all; I therefore got the cushions of the carriage, and with my boat cloak, lay down before a good fire, and slept soundly till morning.
Wednesday, April 26.—Got up at daylight, and as I had not taken off my clothes, was soon ready to move, which, however, we did not do till 7 o'clock. Sir John Jamieson, who had been invited
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by the Governor to make one of his party, had requested we would breakfast at his farm, which we had promised to do, and arrived there about 8 o'clock, distance of 6 miles from Mrs. King's. We found Mr. Secretary Campbell, Mr. Oxley, Surveyor-General, Mr. Meehan, his deputy, Sir John, and his breakfast waiting for us. Sir John's farm being situated on the banks of the Nepean, the horses and carriage were sent round to the ford while we were at breakfast, about a mile down the river, where they crossed and came up to the Government stockyard opposite to Sir John's, and after allowing them a sufficient time to rest and take some corn, we all crossed in a boat, and at 11 o'clock started from Emu Plains, proceeding
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westward and along the Plain till we came to the third mile tree. The ascent of the first range of mountains begins here. The country is much like that around Sydney, but larger and better timbered. About 51 miles, came to the first depth established by Mr. Cox, when making the road, as a place of safety for his provisions for his working party. A small guard of soldiers are stationed here in a good log hut with two rooms, one of which answers as a store. It is placed about 100 yards on the right of the road, near a small lagoon of fresh water. The soldiers had enclosed a small piece of ground for a garden, and one of them had displayed some taste in laying it out in little arbours and seats formed from the surrounding shrubbery, which gave the place an
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appearance of comfort and simplicity. After riding 71 miles further, we arrived about 3 o'clock at our first encampment, the road tolerably good the
whole way from Emu Ford, mostly a gentle ascent. We found all our baggage, caravans, and servants safely arrived before us, and drawn up in regular order to receive us, which they did with three cheers. Our dinner being ready and a table spread in the open air, we soon sat down to partake of it, and enjoyed our meal very much. After dinner served out a dram of mm to every man, which they were to receive every day, and all appeared happy and contented. After tea, took a short distance in the woods to enjoy the novelty of the scene around me, and, this being
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our first encampment, it may not be amiss to describe our situation. We were encamped in an extensive forest of large lofty trees mostly of stringy and iron bark. Our party was formed into different groups, each having a large fire of its own, without which, from the coldness of the nights at this season of the year, it would be impossible to sleep in comfort. These different fires had, from the background where I was, a very beautiful effect, and enabled me to observe the scene before me. Some were busily employed cooking; others were smoakiug ; making their hnts, or cutting down timber for fuel, and reminded me by their various occupations of what I had read of a camp of gypsies or the bivouacs of a Continental army. I
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remained a short time here, and then retired to rest for the night in my hammock, swung between two poles, and covered with a tarpaulin, by the side of a comfortable fire large enough to roast an ox.
Springwood.
Thursday, April 27.—After sleeping tolerably well, I rose at daylight, and began to get part of the baggage off, which, however, could not be effected before 9 o'clock, as the bullocks and horses were to be collected and fed and their drivers to breakfast before they started; the remainder of the baggage was got off about an hour after. Before we left the ground, the Governor and Mrs. Macquarie and a few more walked down to the spring where we had been supplied with water, situated about a mile down a deep glen. In rainy
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seasons the water might be had much nearer, as there appears a watercourse at the back of the encampment, which extends down to the spring issuing from a rock, The water is good, but something as of a mineral quality. From this spring and the surrounding forest, the Governor gave the name of Spring' Wood to this station. We did not leave this place till 12 o'clock, the day cool and pleasant. Our Road was stony, and some very severe and short hills for the loaded carts. About 5 miles further on we came to a very extensive prospect from a lofty spot, where we found a heap of stones, supposed to have been placed there by an adventurer, who had penetrated thus far with much difficulty in his endeavour to cross the mountains. He had
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arrived at it from a different direction from the one we had now taken, and much more difficult, but finding- from this place no end to the mountains, and the country looking most unpromising around him, and his provisions being nearly expended, he gave up what he thought a fruitless attempt, and retraced his steps, after erecting this pile of stones, to which the Governor gave the name of Keely's Repulse. About half a mile on we prepared a bridge extending from one rock to another across a chasm, which we named Bluff Bridge, and 8J miles further brought us to another grand and extensive view of the country we had left for many miles, from a flat elevated land, which we named the King's Tableland. Two miles
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more brought us to our resting-place for the night, making the whole distance 16 miles. We came late to our ground, and some of the carts were not up till long after dark. At this place is situated the second depot; 28 miles from the ford was made another station for provisions for the working- parties on the road. A good store has been built here, in which we dined. Very little feeding for the cattle at this place; only a kind of coarse grass such as generally grows in swamps, but plenty of excellent water. Found this station a very cold one; during the night the wind blew across the swamp in our rear, which made the night uncomfortable, and obliged me to get up frequently to mend our fires.
Friday, April 28.—Rose before daylight; the morning very cold and threatened
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rain; but as the sun rose, the clouds and fog cleared away, and we had a fine morning; breakfasted before we moved and sent off the baggage. About 4* miles 011 our road this morning, we emerged on a sudden from a most dreary waste to a small rising ground on our left, where one of the grandest views that can be imagined was opened to our sight. In the foreground was a deep glen, part of which we had seen yesterday, and around it an immense amphitheatre of lofty hills crowned with rocks, upon which the sun was shining affording a variety of tints. In the distance were lofty mountains as far as the eye could reach, forming a grand circumference, and background—the whole coup d'aeil grand beyond the power of my pen to describe; and until now most likely unseen
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by the eye of civilised man. Called it Pitt's Amphitheatre. Our party remained here about half an hour admiring the grandeur and beauty of the scenery, and then moved on, leaving behind us one of our party who had volunteered his services to accompany us as an artist, to take a sketch of the noble prospect, and whose pencil, I have no doubt, will do ample justice to it. On our leaving Sydney this gentlemanf and myself had made a promise to each other that I was to give him a copy of my remarks, and he in return was to let me have a copy of his sketches, and to him am I indebted for some beautiful views of the interesting country we were now passing through.
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This day's journey was found a severe one for the cattle, the road very stony and a number o± severe hills for the loaded carts. Passed one which we called Pulpit Hill, from a large rock on its summit resembling a pulpit. A little before 2 o'clock came to our resting-place, 41 miles from Emu Plains and 13 from our last ground. The country we passed over this day was the most barren possible, and abounded with bold romantic scenery, which we opened occasionally as we wound round the hills. We found here a spring of most excellent water a little to the right of the road, but the grass was the same as yesterday. Altered the plan of my bed, and made a small tent of the tarpaulin, and slept better than I had done since I had been out.
Cox's Pass.
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Saturday, April 29.—A foggy morning, which cleared off as the sun rose; a slight shower of rain during the night. The baggage moved off about eight o'clock, and the rest of the party about an hour after. Two miles on the road this morning we came to another view of Pitt's Amphitheatre, seen to better advantage, in my opinion, than the one of yesterday; the country around still very barren, and rocky, but little or no feed for cattle. About 11 o'clock, at the 49-mile tree, we came to the pass down the mountain into the new country below, which could be seen to great advantage from the projecting rock on the left just before descending the pass, and forms a very beautiful and pleasant contrast to the one we had been travelling over, appearing to be an open forest land with fine
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grazing. This pass had been made with great labour down a very steep mountain of upwards of six hundred feet, and the way the road is made traversing the face of it makes it nearly a mile long; it was with much difficulty and exertion we got the carts down by fixing drag-ropes behind and holding on with the people; it was so perpendicular in places that the cattle could scarcely keep their footing. We, however, in about two hours' hard work, got them all down in safety, and after allowing the cattle to rest lor half an hour at the foot of the pass, we moved on five miles further through a plain open forest land to our station on the banks of a small stream, which the Governor called Cox's River. The pass was likewise named Cox's Pass,
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in compliment to the gentleman who had superintended making the road and pass—a piece of work which certainly reflects great credit on his exertions and perseverance. The hill itself was called Mount York, a deep and extensive glen to the left extending several miles to Prince Regent's Glen, and the valley which we rode through to Cox's River the Vale of Clwydd, through its resemblance to a place of that name in Wales. At the river where we encamped was plenty of excellent grazing with abundance of water running over a rocky bed of black granite with a bridge thrown over it. We arrived at this station a little after 3 o'clock, a good deal fatigued with our day's work.
Sunday, April 30.—This being Sunday, it was made a day of rest for ourselves
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and cattle—and they indeed required it after the exertion of the last week. Rose early and took a walk over the hills on the other side of the river; the morning delightful and the country looking beautiful—gently rising hill bounded by distant and lofty mountains, clothed with wood and herbage to their summits. Returned about eight to breakfast, which done, the people were collected together and Divine service was performed. The men were attentive and orderly; and thought no doubt with myself how proper it was thus to acknowledge the blessings we were receiving, and returning thank'' for our preservation thus far. After the service was over, some of the party mounted their horses and took a ride to Mount Blaxland,
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and another gentleman and myself took a sober walk up the river for about two miles, where we met with a waterfall extending across the river. It was at this time very low, but in the rainy season must be considerable, the force of the water having made large excavations in the solid rock—a hard, black granite. Having collected some seeds and plants along the bed of the river on the way up, we crossed over at the fall, and returned to the camp by a shorter route, very well pleased with our walk. The day was fine, but warm.
Monday, May 1.—Rose before daylight, and, having shortly after called the Governor, prepared to send off part of the baggage, which I did about seven o'clock, breakfasted and sent
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off the remainder of the carts, and set off ourselves a little after eight. This day proved the most fatiguing and trying for the cattle of any we had yet experienced. The road lay over a succession of steep hills for nearly sixteen miles. One hill in particular abotit 3 miles on the road was very steep and obliged us, after one cart was up, to send back the horses to help up the other, two carts remaining together to help each other, which they were constantly obliged to do the whole of the way—the Governor denominated these hills “Clarence's Hilly Range." We met with very little good soil on them, but the pasture was tolerable, and plenty of water supplied from little streams running from the hills. About 2
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miles from our encampment passed Mount Blaxlaud, and a little further on Wentworth's and Lawson's Sugar Loaves. These hills had been named after three gentlemen who had been the first to penetrate thus far, after much labour and fatigue, and had been the first discoverers of a passage over and down the mountains, but, their provisions being nearly expended, they were obliged to return. We afterwards passed Evans' Peak, a very remarkable hill, with a round rock crowning its summit, and had been named by and after the Deputy Surveyor-General, who Tiad been sent by the Governor after the return of the three other gentlemen to make further discoveries. All this range is clothed with thick timber, and
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has good feeding for cattle. We arrived at our night's station on the banks of a small river, called the Fish River, about 4 o'clock, much fatigued with our day's march—especially the cattle. The Fish River is now a small stream running through a valley, but, like the others we had passed, must be -considerable when swoln by the rains, which was the case when Mr. Evans first passed it. Two men who had been stationed here had caught a fine fish, which we had dressed for dinner, and one of our party got a few more smaller ones all of the same kind. They were excellent eating, something resembling cod, and were peculiar to the rivers in this part of the country. The feed for the cattle at this station is good
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and plentiful along the banks of the river, with plenty of good water.
Tuesday, May 2.—Started this morning at 10 o'clock, after taking a comfortable breakfast. We did not move off as early as usual, as we intended to make but a short march of seven miles to a place called Sydmouth Valley. The first mile of out road was up a considerable ascent, when we got to the top of a very high hill, and from it had an extensive view of the hills around us and the river we had left beneath. Evans' Peak bearing due north. From this spot Mrs. Macquarie and Mr. Lewin took sketches of it. We appeared to be completely surrounded and hemmed in by a range of hills. The country from Cox's River abounds with red and black granite, which is not
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found on the other side of the mountains, and the whole aspect of the country appeared as if it had undergone some great convulsion of nature, hills heaped upon hills and rocks upon rocks, with deep gullies between, some with streams running through them, and all clothed with wood to their very summits, forming altogether the most wild, but at the same time the most romantic country I had ever seen. It seemed, however, well calculated to give those passing through it a good appetite—at least, it had this effect upon us, as we were always ready for our dinners as soon as the day's march was ended, and our early breakfast at six o'clock in the morning was always welcome. Our encampment this day was
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picturesque and beautifully situated in a valley with a chain of ponds running through it, a high hill bounding each extremity, and very good grass and water for our cattle. After passing the first three or four miles we seemed to be leaving the hilly country behind us, and to be fast descending into a more open one. A duck was shot on our arrival in one of the ponds, which appeared so tame &o almost to be taken with the hand, and unconscious of the danger that threatened him. An hour and a half brought us from our last ground, where we had left one of our party fishing. He had a guide with him, and was to walk down the river and join us by dinner-time. We waited an hour for him, and as he did not then arrive, we
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sat down without him; but when it grew dark and he had not arrived, we began to be fearful he had lost his waj. We made some fires on the hills and fired a few shots which he fortunately heard just as he had given up all hopes of finding us, and was making up his mind to collect wood to make a fire and remain stationary for the night. Directed by the report of our guns, he soon found his way to the camp, and was not sorry to exchange the prospects of a hard bed on the cold ground for his own caravan and a good dinner. He brought with him a good string of fish, which served us for our breakfast the next morning. One of the men we sent out to look for the lost sheep killed and brought in a native dog.
Wednesday, May 3.—The morning foggy.
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Rose at daylight and sent off part of the baggage. One of the carts not yet come up but which arrived just before we left our ground. It remained at the station to follow us to-morrow, after taking out of it some things that we wanted. After keeping the road thi- morning for six miles, we struck off to the right due noith, the Governor leaving the carriage to pursue the road, and mounting his horse; and about two miles we made the first river, riding along which for a short distance we came to an extensive plain, called by Mr. Evans, who first discovered it, O'Connell Plains, in honour of the commanding officer of the 73rd Regiment; a considerable tract of land without a tree, fit for both pasture and cultivation. Continuing along the banks of the river about two miles, we came to
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another extensive plain called Macquarie Plains after our worthy Governor. This is the most extensive of the two, and equally good for pasture and cultivation. Riding along this plain for two miles we made the junction of the two rivers—the one we had been riding along and the Campbell River; these two then form the Macquarie, which takes a westerly direction, but doeo not appear from this place, after receiving the waters of the other two, to be larger than either. We then proceeded up the bank of the Campbell River for about 3 miles, upon the banks of which we were to encamp near a bridge made over it, and arrived there in about half an hour, where we found our baggage before us. The face of the country
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we rode over this day, after quitting the road, was beautiful and open, large tracts of land, without timber or underwood, and in the spring when grass is green, must be delightful. At present we saw it to a great disadvantage, the greatest part of the herbage of the plains having been destroyed by fire, which gave them a barren and desolate appearance. The grass however, at the place of our encampment had escaped, and we found abundance for our purpose. A little fatigued with our ride, owing more to the heat of the weather than the length of the road, it being the warmest day we had experienced since our departure from home. The distance was only 13 miles, and two miles more by the round road we had taken.
Campbell River.
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Thursday, May 4.—Eose this morning just as the day began to dawn. After dressing took a walk along the rising ground behind the camp to contemplate the beauties of the surrounding country, and hail the rising sun. The fog continued in the valley I had quitted, and here and thoie a hill was seen peeping through it, appearing like so many islands and a long line of coast forming a deep and beautiful bay, the fog having the resemblance of water. This day was to be our last inarch to arrive at the grand depot and Bathurst Plains. The baggage was sent off, and at eignt o'clock, crossing the bridge over the Campbell River, the Governor and somo others of the party set off on horseback to visit another plain called Mitchell Plain, which did not
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lay in our route. I remained behind to see the rest of the baggage off. We saw three kangaroos yesterday, but having no dogs near, could not come up with them. No emues were to be seen, though we were told there were plenty of them. I suppose the burning of the grass had driven them away to seek for food elsewhere. The Governor and his party overtook me on the road, and a little after, about 7 miles, we descended the hills, to an extensive plain, which, in honour of the Minister for the Colonies, was called Bathurst Plains, being the most extensive of any we had yet seen, of many miles in length, with the Macquarie running through it, upon the banks of which the Grand Depot is situated. Mr. Evans, the Deputy Assistant
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Surveyor-General, met us as soon as we descended into the plain. He had been sent over from Van Diemen's Land to attend the Governor, as he had already explored this part of the country, and had been sent forward a second time to make further discoveries, and was now returned but a day or two to Bathurst before our arrival, and reported that he had endeavoured to trace the river, but found that it was not navigable for any distance. He had met with a very broken and fine grazing country to the south-west for fifty miles, and fit for every purpose of cultivation. On our approach within half a mile of the settlement, the Governor and Mrs. Macquarie got out of their carriage, and mounted their saddle horses, and the remainder
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of the party, which had straggled behind, coming up, we drew up into line, twelve in number, and advanced in this order towards the huts, situated on a little rising ground on the hanks of the river. We were received by the party stationed here with presented arms and three cheers, and, to add to our satisfaction, we discovered several of the natives of this new country among them, who were made spectators of the novel sight. At first they appeared very much astonished at us, and not a little alarmed at our reception, but in a short time by kind treatment, they became more reconciled to us, and seemed to cast oft all fear. Our people received strict injunctions to treat them kindly, to put no restraints upon their
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movements, but to let them come and go when they thought proper. They had nothing with them but a couple of rude spears, which they threw down near one of the huts, and seemed perfectly careless about them. One old man was blind of an eye, which the people stationed here said was frequently the case both with men and women; but this man and an old woman, we one day met in the woods, were the only instances we saw of the kind during our stay. They resembled the natives about Sydney, but did not speak the same language; they appeared, however, to be one degree more advanced towards civilisation than our old friends, possessing some art in manufacturing themselves cloaks of skin, very
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neatly sewed together by the sinews of the kangaroo and emue, and carved on the inside with a variety of figures. These cloaks were for the sole purpose of keeping themselves warm, and not out of any regard for decency, for in the middle of the day, when the weather was warm they threw them carelessly over their shoulders. What little I saw of them during our stay, they appeared to be a harmless and inoffensive race, with nothing forbidding or ferocious in their countenances. On the contrary, they are perfectly mild and cheerful, and laugh at everything they see and repeat everything they hear. As I had sent on a man the day before to pitch one of the tents for the Governor, we found it ready for us, but we preferred dining in the
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store, which was very neatly made and well thatched.
Friday, May 5.—After breakfast was over, the Governor and the rest of the party set off to visit some of the country on the other side of the river, crossing at a ford a little below the huts. I remained at home to see the tents pitched and the things put in order, as we proposed staying here a week; employed at this the whole of the day till dinner-time. The spot which was chosen for the Governor's large tent was upon a little rising ground about three hundred yards from the men's huts; a small tent was placed on each side with a clear space in front upon which a small flagstaff was erected. This was a delightful spot for a town,
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commanding a view of the surrounding country for a considerable extent; the soil excellent, fitted for every purpose of cultivation, with abundance of good water near at hand, but the wood is scarce, being obliged to send upwards of a mile for it. A native dog was killed as I was pitching the tents, by our dogs. These animals fight very fiercely; the natives domesticate them, and make use of them in hunting their game, the kangaroo and the emue, and in their tame state (when accompanied by their masters) often get the better of our dogs. They very much resemble the fox, and seem to be a bread between that and the wolf; but as none of these animals are found in the country, it is difficult to say how these dogs have become
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inmates of it.
Saturday, May 6.—After breakfast this morning, mounted our horses and rode through the country for a few miles to the northward to a small stream running through a pretty little valley, which we called Wiiiburndale, giving the creek the same name. The ground we rode over was good, both for grazing and cultivation, plentifully watered, and very thinly wooded; gave chase to some kangaroos, and killed a small one with the dogs; the ground bad to gallop over, being full of holes and tufts of grass. Yesterday a black swan was shot and brought into the camp, weighing ten lbs; it wag the largest one of the kind I had ever seen, measuring six ft. 2 inches from the tip of each wing,
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and was four ft. three inches long, including the neck, which was two ft.; there was another with him at the time he was shot, which was afterwards seen flying over the camp, and I heard him again crying for his mate. They seem to show great feeling, and seldom live long after losing their companions. A gentleman at Sydney had a couple of these birds. One of them died, and being skinned by his servants, the skin was put in the garden to dry; the other found out the remains of his companion, and laid down beside it, where it remained without moving, refusing all sustenance, and in a day or two was found dead stretched out on the skin. We had another visit from the natives this day, who came in
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with the utmost confidence, and slept in the camp, getting as close to the fire as they could without burning. The nights were very cold, and the mornings foggy, and they seemed to feel the cold very acutely. They came into the tents while we were dressing, without any ceremony, but seemed, after the first surprise at the novelty of the surrounding objects, to be totally devoid of curiosity. They took everything that was offered them, but asked for nothing. If you put a question to them, or held up anything to find out its name in their language, they only repeated the words you made use of, following, however, very accurately the sound. One word they soon learned and seemed to understand, " Good-bye," which they repeated at night when they quitted the tents.
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Sunday, May 7.—A thick foggy morning, which soon cleared away as the sun got a little power. A little after breakfast, assembled the whole of our inhabitants, civic, naval and military, 75 in number, and drawing them up in line, in front of the large tent, the British flag was displayed for the first time in this new country, the troops saluting it with three vollies, and the rest giving three cheers. The Governor then delivered a short speech to Mr. Cox and Mr. Evans as having through their exertions been brought to so fine a country, thanking the latter for having explored it with so much perseverance and success, and the former for having with considerable labour made so good a road
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for upwards of a hundred miles in so short a time and so difficult to perform. He then named the place and new town to be marked out, " Bathurst," and each drank a burr per, some in wine, and the rest in rum, to the King's health, and success to the town of Bathurst—an era in my life, which at some future day I hope I shall look back to with pleasure and satisfaction. We then adjourned to the Governor's marquee, where Divine service was performed, a suitable ceremony at the close of so interesting a one we had just been witness to. 'Tis pleasing to look forward and think that perhaps at some future period not far distant, a flourishing town may arise on the very spot we are now occupying on the banks of the
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Macquarie River, which may hand down the name of our worthy Governor with honour to posterity, as its founder; and where Divine service has now been performed to the great Dispenser of events, some future church may be erected to His name and worship. The men were orderly and attentive and the day was spent with cheerfulness, and good humour, and was closed by giving the men another dram.
Monday, May 8.—Rose this morning at the dawn of day, and having called the rest of the party, prepared breakfast, it being intended to start early to visit a part of the country lately discovered by Mr. Evans, to the south-west. As I did not ride out this day, I employed myself in preparing and sending off one of the carts loaded with the heaviest
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of the baggage. A mild, pleasant day. The Governor returned from his ride about 3 o'clock, having gone about 50 miles through a fine grazing country, and was much pleased with his ride.
Tuesday, May 9.—Intending to ride this day to a place called Pine Hill about 15 miles off, rose early, and having breakfasted, set off immediately afte'r, going to the westward—a pleasant morning, little or no fog. After riding five miles through an open country, to a hill called Mount Pleasant where we left Mrs. Macquarie and the carriage, we proceeded 10 or 12 miles to Pine Hill, so called from the quantity of pines of a peculiar kind growing on and around it. The country we passed through was very well watered and fit for cultivation, and we made a circuit
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and returned to Mount Pleasant, which we ascended, and found a fine tableland on the top about half a mile long, and a good rich light soil, but covered with a great quantity of loose stones of a peculiar kind not seen in any other part of the country we had visited. And what was still more remarkable, a number of them were thrown into heapb, as if placed there by the haiidh of men. Supposing something might be placed under them we had one or two taken to pieces, but found nothing but the baine kind of stone on the surface, of a solid and hard bed which we could not penetrate. We had from this hill a beautiful and extensive prospect of the river, and Bathurst Plains, and after staying about half an hour descended
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the mount, and having regained the carriage, returned to Bathurst very well pleased with the day's ride.
Wednesday, May 10.—A very thick foggy morning, which did not clear away till late. We made this a resting day for our horses, and I took a walk up the river about 4 miles to try for some fish. Could not get a bite; crossed over the river and returned to the camp, where I found some of the natives who had arrived during my absence, and shortly after my return, some more came in. There were three men, and a number of fine lads, but no women, nor had we seen one since our arrival, except the old lady we met in the woods. They submitted very quietly to have their hair cut, and we clothed
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them with some shirts and jackets and trousers, and gave each a leather cap, and a tommyhawk; the latter present appeared to please them most. To one of the best-looking men of the party the Governor gave a piece of yellow cloth in exchange for his skin cloak. They stayed with us the whole of the day, and left us 111 the evening to return, to their encampment over the hills, but did not seem to wish us to follow them, which we did not attempt to do.
Thursday, May 11.—This morning was likewise very foggy, which the sun had not power to clear away till nearly ten o'clock. This being the day we were to commence our journey back, sent off some of the carts at 9 o'clock. And after breakfast, when most of the baggage
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was ready, and the saddle-horses standing around the carts, those men who it was intended should remain behind, were assembled before the Governor when he exhorted them to conduct themselves peaceably towards the natives, to treat them kindly whenever they met with them, and endeavour to keep the friendly intercourse which then subsisted; which the men promised to do and in testimony of their thanks for the kind treatment they had received, and their acquiescence in the order, they gave three cheers, when immediately, as with one consent, away started all the carts, and some of the saddle-horses, going off in different ways full gallop. In a moment all was confusion and dismay, expecting every instant
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to see the carts overturned and everything in them dashed to pieces. Fortunately however, they were all stopped without sustaining much damage. Two caravans belonging to the gentlemen were upset, and the shaft of one broken. We soon collected our scattered forces together, and moved off, bidding adieu to Bathurst and its inhabitants, not without a feeling of regret and sincere wishes that the town we had established might nourish and become a thriving settlement. We marched ten miles, and arrived at our former Station at the Campbell River, in 2 hours and encamped on the same spot. We found this day one of the warmest we had experienced. Our road was very good, mostly on the descent. On our arrival at our ground we found most of the grass burned up, owing I suppose, to the
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fires we had left behind us. It had not, fortunately, spread to any distance, and we found quite enough for our horses. One emue was killed yesterday and we had some of it cooked for breakfast this morning. It was very good eating, tasting like beef, a little dry and tough; it weighed eighty-six Ibs., and was a very large bird.
Friday, May 12.—Got up this morning an hour before day; could not sleep, the night very cold. After breakfast moved off, and at 12 arrived at Sydmouth Valley, halted there for about an hour to give the horses a mouthful of grass and a little water, and then moved on seven miles further "to the Fish River, and encamped near our old station; distance 20 miles. On mustering our followers yesterday
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evening we found one man missing. He had come with us with the idea of becoming a settler in the new country, and as we suppose, he had remained behind at Bathurst, a man was this morning sent back for him, he returned in the evening and reported the last time the poor fellow was seen was with some of the natives. He had been at Bathurst the morning we left, and being a little in liquor, had insisted upon going with them to their camp, where it was supposed from his own imprudence he had fallen a sacrifice, as no trace could be found of him by the parties which had been sent out; and the natives with whom he had gone away, had not since been seen. I am told he has left a wife and four children
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to lament his loss, which likewise threw a damp upon all our spirits, and considerably diminished the pleasure of our journey back.
Saturday, May 13.—Eose this morning before daylight, called up the servants in order that they might get their breakfast before us, and sent off the baggage early. This was a very fatiguing march, retracing Clarence's Hilly Eange. Went on ahead to Cox's Pass, and got out some wine from one of the carts, which had been sent on in front, and on returning to Cox's Biver, found the tent pitched and dinner ready.
Sunday, May 14.—Up this morning a little before daylight to enjoy a most delightful morning. After breakfast assembled the people together and had Divine
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service performed, no sermon was read, as it was late-before we began, and the gentlemen were impatient to ride out. When this-duty was over the people began to pack up two of the carts, and they were sent off up the Pass to ascend the mountain, which was what I did not approve of, as there was no immediate occasion for doing so. Took a walk up the river, and remained absent till near dinner-time. We had a very mild night, but a- high wind made it unpleasant, coming down the vallies in gusts, and driving the smoke about in all directions.
Monday, May 15.—Eose early this morning, and sent off what remained of the baggage to the Pass, intending to breakfast there before we-ascended.
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Arrived there at 9 o'clock, found most of the carts had got up safe, but with much labour and difficulty. During our breakfast, the carriage was taken up and by 12 o'clock, we were all safe at the top without any accident whatever, which was more than I expected. After arriving at the top, I walked on for a few miles, when a very thick fog came on, which at first I took for the smoke of a large fire in the woods, it continued so for the remainder of the day, and obliged us to dine in the tent. Our march this day was six miles, to the foot of the Pass; one up, and eight more to our ground. The fog continued the whole of the night, and the weather was much milder than we had found it for some nights past. From the
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appearance of this Station, it being a kind of heath, but a very wild and dreary scenery, the Governor gave it the name of Blackheath, though to my eye, very unlike its namesake.
Tuesday, May 16.—Breakfasted early, and got all the baggage off before nine, the morning was foggy, but the sun soon cleared it away, and having a tolerably good ride this day, we got to our ground at the second depot by 1 o'clock. The Governor changed the name of this station to Jamieson's Valley, in compliment to Sir John Jamieson who was one of our party-The night proved very cold, the wind blowing from the same quarter as it did when we were last here, but with greater violence.
Wednesday, May 17.—As this was to be a
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tedious march of 16 miles rose early, and after breakfasting, sent off the baggage. We did not, however, find the road so difficult returning for although it was rocky, it wag mostly down hill, the carts, therefore, arrived at Spring Wood in very good time. Lent my horbe to one of the servants as I was inclined to walk, turned off the road at the King's Tableland, and went down to visit a waterfall. The height of the fall was great, but there being very little water, the stream was very inconsiderable. The whole of the tableland next to the chasm appeared as if it had undergone a violent volcanic eruption, the stones seemed to have been in a state of fusion, forming all manner of shapes, and having the resemblance of melted
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sand and ironstone, and the place altogether formed a wild and picturesque scene of nature. I remained here with most of the party for nearly three hours, and then returned to the road and pursued my walk to the camp, where I arrived at 3 o'clock. 1 partook of a good dinner and went early to bed. As this was the last night of our being together, served out an extra allowance of grog to the men, and had some very good songs from them, and all around us appeared contented and happy.
Thursday, May 18.—Rose this morning at the usual hour of daylight, and having breakfasted, started from our ground at Spring Wood at 10 o'clock, our road was descent the whole of the way to the ford, 12
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miles, where we arrived in two hours, and after crossing the Nepean, our party began to separate, Sir John Jamieson, Mr. Oxley, and Mr. Cox going to their farms, and Mr. Campbell to follow us to Sydney. The rest of the party went on with us to Mrs. King's farm, where we were met hy Mr. Hassall, who provided a dinner for us on our return. In thus taking leave of the friends who had accompanied us on our expedition, I cannot help mentioning with satisfaction, the unanimity and good understanding which subsisted between every individual composing our small society! Not a word of ill-humour passed the whole time; on the contrary everyone appeared to use his endeavour to make the time pass as pleasantly as possible.
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As I was resolved not to indulge in the luxury of a bed till I arrived home,. I wrapped myself up in my boat cloak, and notwithstanding the hardness, of the boards, slept very well till morning.
Friday, May 19.—As this was to be our last stage, set off at seven o'clock from Mrs. King's farm in company with Mr. Hassall, and after a pleasant ride of sixteen miles, arrived at Parramatta, where we breakfasted, and resting our horses till 11 o'clock, returned to Sydney, after an absence of twenty-four days. We had the happiness to find all well at home, and I hope were grateful for the protection which had been afforded us on our journey, no accidents having occurred the whole of the way but the loss of a few hor-es, and the loss of the poor fellow at Bathurst.
H.C.A.
FINIS.
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Distance from Sydney to Bathurst;—to Parramatta, 151 miles;
to Mrs, King's farm, 16 miles;
to Emu Ford, 6 miles;
to Spring Wood, 12 miles;
to Jamieson's Valley, 16 miles;
to Blackheath, 13 miles;
to top of Cox's Pass, 8 miles;
to the Pass, 1 mile;
from the foot of the Pass to Cox's River, 51 miles;
to the Fish Eiver, 16 miles,
to Sydmouth Valley, 7 miles;
to Campbell Eiver, 13 miles;
to Bathurst, 11 miles;
total distance, 141 miles.

The party consisted of:—The Governor; Mrs. Macquarie; Sir John Jamieson; Mr. J. T. Campbell, secretary; Brigade-Major Antill, A.D.C.; extra Aide-de-Camp Watts; Mr. John Oxley, Surveyor-General; Mr. Jas. Mehan, Deputy Surveyor-General; Mr. Wm. Eedfern, surgeon; Mr. Wm. Cox, J.P.; Mr. J. W. Lewin, F.E.S., A.L.S.; and Mr. G. W. Evans, who was only with us a short time at Bathurst, and was left behind to make further discoveries; and about 40 servants and soldiers in all.
H.C.A.
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Mitchell Library, State Library of New South Wales

Henry Colden Antill - journals, 1809, 1815; written in 1849
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